Anker PowerCore II 10000 Ultra Slim Power Bank Review
The Anker PowerCore 10000 II Ultra Slim is shaped more practically than its predecessor, charges quicker, has a protective rubber shield, and is overall an impressive and refined improvement to one of the best power banks of all time.
- Slim design allows for phone stacking and more comfort in your
- Very impressive charging speeds
- Incredible overall value
- Premium look and sturdy grip thanks to its rubberized coating
Anker’s new line of PowerCore batteries called the PowerCore II series have become massively popular since their release. We were highly positive of the Anker PowerCore Elite 20000 in our review and loved the overall design and its quick charging speeds. In this article we’ll be taking a look at the successor of the beloved Anker PowerCore 10000, which was our second overall pick for Best Power Bank in 2020 and is one of the best selling power banks in the world. Will the Anker PowerCore II 10000 score as highly as its predecessor? Let’s find out in this review.
Design and portability
The Anker PowerCore II 10000 looks to be slightly bigger than its previous version. It’s taller and wider, but significantly slimmer, making it much more comfortably shaped for in your It’s similar in shape and size to a smartphone, and the great advantage of this is you can stack it under your phone while charging it. The only other power bank we’ve come across that allowed for this as well was the EasyAcc 6000 Ultra-Slim. However, the integrated cable of the EasyAcc 6000 made it somewhat uncomfortable to hold the power bank and phone together firmly, as the cable did not allow for optimal flexibility. With the Anker PowerCore II 10000, this is not a problem at all with the cable being separate.
Just like the Anker PowerCore Elite 20000. the PowerCore II 10000 also features a rubberized layer on the casing, which was a design element we really loved. It not only gives the power bank a polished premium look, but also provides for more grip when holding and makes it less likely to slip away when laid down on a table. over, it provides better protection when dropped on the floor. Overall, the Anker PowerCore II 10000 feels like a very durable unit and built to last a long time.
Features
With the click of a button the four battery indicators will show how much juice is left in the power bank. On the front of the power bank, we find the PowerIQ output which has a distinct blue trim, just like we saw in the PowerCore Elite 20000. The output is fitted with Anker’s signature PowerIQ charging technology providing you with the most efficient charge for your device. Also—a thing we don’t see very often in Anker power banks, is its Quick Charge functionality. It supports Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 and is even backwards compatible with older QC versions. So if you have a device that supports Qualcomm Quick Charge, you’ll be able to charge your phone in just over an hour.
The Anker PowerCore II 10000 is not fitted with a flashlight and does not support pass-through charging, meaning you can’t charge a device while the power bank itself is charging. However, these are trivial features that most people don’t look for in a power bank. If you really find pass-through charging to be an important feature, you can take a look at some of our reviews of Jackery and RAVPower power banks.
Power
For a power bank the size of an iPhone, it has an impressive battery capacity. With 10,000mAh you’ll be able to charge most devices at least twice, and some even three times. Thanks to its Quick Charge functionality, it also charges blazingly fast. A Samsung Galaxy S7 is charged in about one hour and thirty minutes, meaning it charges more than one percent of battery per minute. And although iPhones don’t support Qualcomm Quick charge functionality, their batteries are usually of smaller capacity than Android phones, which means an iPhone will be fully charged rather quickly as well. An iPhone 7 is charged within one hour and ten minutes, making it one of the fastest charging power banks we’ve come across. over, the Anker PowerCore II 10000 is able to charge the iPhone 7 roughly three times in total.
Unlike the PowerCore Elite 20000, the PowerCore II 10000 may not be an ideal pick to charge tablets with. 10000 mAh just isn’t enough to fully charge a moderately sized iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab. However, it can definitely provide you with about 30 – 50% extra juice for your tablet if needed, and does it quite fast thanks to its PowerIQ Smart charging technology.
Normally, a 10,000mAh power bank will be charged in approximately ten hours with a 1A adapter, and about twice as fast with a 2A adapter. The Anker PowerCore II 10000 supports Quick Charge functionality and thus can be charged in roughly four hours, which is insanely fast for a 10,000mAh unit. Unfortunately, a Quick Charge wall charger is not included with the device. However, this is the case for most power banks and the QC 3.0 wall chargers on Amazon sold separately are quite affordable.
Conclusion
There wasn’t much wrong with the original Anker PowerCore 10000. However, the Anker PowerCore II 10000 does everything its predecessor did, but just slightly more refined. It charges faster, is shaped more practically for your and phone stacking, and has a rubberized coating for better grip and protection. It’s amazing how Anker manages to keep improving products we thought were already perfect. One thing we do miss however is another charge slot. But all in all, the Anker PowerCore II 10000 is a top-notch power bank and highly recommended for short trips, commutes, traveling or just for at home when you don’t want to be tied to an outlet.
Technical Specifications
| Measurements: | 5.4 x 2.6 x 0.6 inches |
| Weight: | 210g (7.4oz) |
| Charging ports: | 1 (3A max) |
| Safety features: | Overcharge protection, short-circuit protection and more |
| Compatible with: | iPhone, Android, tablet, digital cameras etc. (most micro-USB devices) |
| Pass-through charging: | No |
| Smart charging: | Yes, PowerIQ |
| Qualcomm Quick Charge: | Yes, QC 3.0 (backwards compatible with earlier versions) |
| Battery indication: | 4 LED lights |
| Flashlight: | No |
| Battery capacity: | 10000 mAh / 38.5 Wh |
| Total max output: | 3A |
| Total max input: | 2A |
| Time to charge itself: | 4 – 10 hours (depending on wall charger used) |
Anker PowerCore II review
Building in new PowerIQ 2.0, Anker’s Slim 10,000mAh PowerCore II is a useful power bank to carry around. Find out more in our full review.
Our Verdict
The Anker PowerCore II Slim comes at a good price and has a useful amount of capacity for keeping your phone or tablet topped up away from home. The Quick Charge 3.0 support and fast recharging is very welcome but only for phones that support it, and the design is reasonably attractive as far as black plastic power banks go.
Anker has unveiled a new line of power banks that builds in its PowerIQ 2.0 technology, allowing them to offer up to 18W fast charging from a single chipset when most QC3.0 power banks (including others in Anker’s own product family) need at least two charging chips. (See our Best power banks group test.)
Though you might not notice the difference when compared to any other QC 3.0 power bank, by reducing the number of chips PowerIQ 2.0 can make batteries smaller, lighter and more efficient. PowerIQ intelligently recognises the type of device to deliver an optimum charge, from 12W for the iPhone to 18W for the latest Android flagships.
(Note that the PowerCore II will only be able to charge your device at 18W if that device supports fast charging.)
Its PowerCore II 10,000 Slim is the first to build in the technology, and is available from Amazon UK for £25.99 ( Amazon US price 37.99). We were also sent a 20,000mAh version, though it’s not yet on sale in the UK. You can buy the PowerCore II 20,000 from Amazon US for 49.99.
The key difference between these two power banks, aside from the capacity and price, is the fact the larger model has two full-size USB outputs. However, only one of those outputs is an 18W PowerIQ 2.0 port; the second is a 12W PowerIQ 1.0 output. This is still ‘fast’ when compared to the 5W chargers bundled with iPhones and some other smartphones.
good news comes in the fact both power banks support fast charging on their Micro-USB input as well, so you can recharge the Slim in just four hours using a compatible charger. This goes a long way to make up for the fact it does not support passthrough charging, which is the ability to charge both the power bank itself and a connected device at once.
Despite being from the same family of devices and building in the same technology, the two look nothing alike. Both are black rectangular devices with Anker’s branding on the top, but the 20,000mAh unit has a textured surface that improves grip in the hand.
It’s also chunkier, and has eight LEDs built into its power button, while the Slim has four LEDs on the power bank’s top surface and a small power button embedded in its side. There’s a soft-touch silicone rear here too, which makes it feel better protected from drops. features a second Anker logo that takes up much of the surface.
We like the auto-on support, meaning you don’t need to fiddle around with buttons – you just plug in your phone or tablet and charging begins. But beyond this the Anker power banks are really about pure speed over anything else.
The slim, in particular, doesn’t strike us as significantly smaller than any other 10,000mAh power bank – when compared to the 10,000mAh PowerCore Speed it is indeed slimmer, but significantly taller, which makes it feel bigger.
It has a nice design, but it’s still just a black plastic power bank, and it doesn’t feature the extra LEDs of the 20,000mAh model or a fancy LCD screen for an exact readout. There’s no support for USB-C or Lightning, and no extra features such as an LED flashlight. But you do get a mesh carry case, which is a nice touch and welcome for keeping the power bank and cables together. And, to be fair, what you do get is very reasonable for the money.
In terms of capacity the PowerCore II 10,000 Slim is good for at least two charges for most Android phones and three charges for an iPhone. Double that for the 20,000mAh model. That you don’t get more charges is due to the fact some energy is lost through voltage conversion and heat generated – normal for a power bank.
Specs
Anker PowerCore II 10,000 Slim: Specs
- 10,000mAh (38.5Wh) power bank
- 1x 18W Micro-USB input
- 1x 18W USB output with PowerIQ 2.0
- auto-on
- mesh carry case and Micro-USB cable supplied
- 4-LED status system
- 137x66x16mm
- 210g
- 18-month warranty
Rs.5,749-.- You Save.-.-
The Next Generation High-Capacity Portable Charger. Ultra Slim Power Bank, Upgraded PowerIQ 2.0 (up to 18W Output), Fast Charge for iPhone, Samsung Galaxy and
- 12 Months Brand Warranty
- Over 3.5 charges for iPhone X, or 2 for Galaxy S8. Multiple full charges for other phones and devices.
- Charges Apple, Android, and Quick Charge devices at their fastest possible speed.
- Award-Winning Slimline Design
Seller Note : Warranty Policy: 1- Complete packaging (The Box and all including Accessories) are Required for any Warranty Claim. 2- Burnt and Broken Products are NOT Covered under Any Warranty. 3- Water Damage or any Physical Damage Done by you (Customer) will Not be Covered in Any Warranty Policy. 4- Lost or Stolen Products Not Covered in Warranty. 5- Complimentary Accessories (i.e. PowerBank Cable, Charger Cable, Pouch, etc) are Not in Any Warranty Claim Policy. 6- Repair damage through 3rd party personnel NOT Covered in Warranty Policy. 7- Damage from outside sources NOT Covered in Warranty. 8- Damage from misuse of the product (including, but not limited to: fall drops, extreme temperatures, water exposure, and operating devices improperly, etc) NOT Covered in Warranty. 9- Purchases from unauthorized resellers NOT Covered in Any Warranty. 10- We are Not Liable for Loss of data incurred from the use of Anker product.
PowerCore II Slim 10000The Next Generation High-Capacity Portable Charger
From ANKER, America’s Leading USB Charging Brand Faster and safer charging with our advanced technology 20 million happy users and counting
Power PackedStandard portable chargers require multiple chips to ensure broad charging compatibility, but Anker’s in-house designed hardware squeezes all that onto one tiny circuit. Less space for silicon means more space for power.
Charging ForwardUp to 3 full charges for flagship smartphones, tablets and other USB devices ensure that freedom from your outlet has never been so simple.
Universal SpeedNot only does PowerCore II Slim 10000 provide the fastest possible charge to almost any smartphone or tablet, it can be fully recharged in just 4 hours. That means less time charging, more time living.
Recharge TimesUsing 5V/1A Charger: 10 HoursUsing 5V/2A Charger: 5 Hours 40 MinutesUsing a Quick Charge Charger: 4 HoursNote Cannot recharge Samsung W700. Requires a Qualcomm Quick Charge wall charger for high-speed recharge. Not compatible with devices with an input below 50mA (e.g. some Bluetooth headsets and GPS devices). We strongly recommend using the original Apple charging cable (not included) to charge Apple devices.
12-Month Warranty for Quality-Related Issues
We will take care of all quality-related issues with a REPLACEMENT or FULL REFUND
For Purchases made through other retailers
Other retailers’ after-sales support policies will vary. Please contact the retailer directly for specific guidance on their warranty process.
Unauthorized reselling of Anker products is strictly prohibited7-Day Return PolicyYou may return your undamaged product and packaging within 7 days of purchase to receive a REFUND VOUCHER for any reason. If the reason for return isn’t quality-related, the customer must pay the return shipping costs7 Days Return Policy Terms and Conditions
1 – NO CASH BACK You’ll Receive your refund amount as Voucher within 2- 3 Working Days2 – You Can use Voucher within 30 Days3 – If you make purchase through Authorize Re Seller Shop (Offline) You’ll get refund via store credits only.4 – Once we receive your item, we will inspect it and notify you that we have receive you return item. We’ll immediately notify you on the status of your refund after inspected the return item.5- If we found any issue in return item we’ll notify you, then 7 Days return policy will not applicable. And we send back product to you (Customer). Shipping Cost must pay by customer.6- Any product you return must be in the same condition you received it and in the original packaging. Please keep the receipt.7- The serial number of the Product must be verified first.8- Once your return is received and inspected, we will send you an email to notify you that we have received your returned item. We will also notify you of the approval or rejection of your refund.9- Returns are only accepted within 7 Days of the date of purchase. To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it. It must also be in the original packaging.10- To process your return, we require a receipt or proof of purchase. You will be responsible for shipping costs.11- You will be responsible for paying for your own shipping costs for returning your item. Shipping costs are non-refundable. If you receive a refund, any shipping costs paid for by Laraib Electronics will be deducted from your refund.12- You should consider using a trackable shipping service or purchasing shipping insurance. We don’t guarantee that we will receive your returned item.13- All returns must include all accessories, documentation, etc., that was originally shipped with the product.
What isn’t cover in 7 Days Return Policy?
1 – If Product OR Packaging is Damage.2 – If Product OR Packaging Have any Scratches.3 – If Product OR Packaging is Dirty.4 – If Complimentary accessories are incomplete or broken.5 – If Authenticity Scratch code is scratch.6- If products is not match to Order Number or Invoice #.7- If Product is match to order/invoice number but serial number of product is not match with our Record/database.8- After 7 Days of Purchase.9- Only regular priced items may be refunded. Sale items cannot be refunded.
What do the LEDs indicate when powercore II Slim 10000 is charging itself or other devices?
When PowerCore II Slim 10000 is charging your device, the LED power meter will stay on, displaying the battery’s remaining power. The light will fade when the device is fully charged and no longer drawing a current. The last LED light will flash when the remaing power is lower than 10% and turn off when lower than 5%. When PowerCore II Slim 10000 is being charged, the LEDs will flash and light up one by one to show the progress of the recharge. They will turn off when the PowerCore is fully charged.
What should I do if PowerCore II Slim 10000 doesn’t charge other devices?
Please try using a different charging cable between PowerCore II Slim 10000 and your device. Email us at support@anker.com during your 18-month warranty period if this doesn’t fix the issue.
What should I do if PowerCore II Slim 10000 doesn’t recharge?
Please try a different AC adapter and Micro USB cable to see if that helps. Email us at support@anker.com during your 18-month warranty period if this doesn’t fix the issue.
Can PowerCore II Slim 10000 be taken on board airplanes?
Yes, all external batteries with a capacity lower than 27027mAh (100 watt hours) can legally and safely be taken on board airplanes. To calculate an external battery’s capacity in watt hours: (Battery mAh Capacity X 3.7)/1000. Here are the relevant requirements quoted from federal transportation security rules: Effective January 1, 2008: Passengers may carry consumer-sized lithium ion batteries (a.k.a. rechargeable lithium, lithium polymer, LIPO, secondary lithium) with no more than 8 grams of equivalent lithium content or 100 watt hours (wh) per battery. This size covers AA, AAA, 9-volt, cell phone, PDA, camera, camcorder, Gameboy, and standard laptop computer batteries. Passengers can also bring two (2) larger lithium ion batteries (more than 8 grams, up to 25 grams of equivalent lithium content per battery) in their carry-on. This size covers larger extended-life laptop batteries. Most consumer lithium ion batteries are below this size.
Can PowerCore II Slim 10000 be used for international travel?
Yes, PowerCore II Slim 10000 can be used internationally. Just be sure that your USB wall charger is compatible with the voltage of the country you’re travelling to. The input voltage of an adapter is usually labeled on the adapter itself.
How long will the charge in PowerCore II Slim 10000 last without being used?
Generally, our external batteries’ static power consumption is so low it would take between 20 and 36 months to drain completely. However, it is also worth noting that their chemicals will become less active if left unused for extended periods. To extend battery lifespan, discharge and recharge it at least once every 4 months.
My device charges at 1 Amp, will PowerCore II Slim 10000’s higher output harm it?
Can PowerCore II Slim 10000 charge other devices while it is being charged?
No, we have disabled this feature due to the detrimental effects it has on the lifespan of portable chargers.
Anker PowerCore 10000 – The Gold Standard USB-A Power Bank
Anker PowerCore 10000 with Nintendo Switch. Cable not included.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I purchased the product in this review.
The Anker PowerCore 10000 is the gold standard of mid-sized USB-A power banks. Its compact design makes it a better fit in a Switch carrying case than thinner forms. It is easy and reliable, if lacking in features.
- Ports: USB-A x1
- USB-A Output: 5V/2.4A
- micro-USB Input: 5V/2A
- Capacity: 10,000mAh | 37 Wh
- Size: 3.6 x 2.4 x 0.9 inches | 92 x 60 x 22 mm
- Weight: 6.3 oz | 180 grams
Switch Chargers Ratings:
Included In Box:
Anker PowerCore 10000 and cable in a Nintendo Switch case.
- Charges Switch while you play under some conditions
- Compact design gives it a smaller footprint
- Fits in most Switch carrying cases
Compared With Similar Chargers
Good For
Times based on 3 hours per full Switch charge, and assumes both Switch and power bank are at 100%.
First Impression
The Anker PowerCore 10000 is a compact power bank, fitting into any bag or Switch case. It is a bit heavier than a regular sized smartphone. A side button lights up 4 LED lights, indicating how much charge remains. The USB-A port limits power output for the Switch, but does keep the price down. Its 5V output is more efficient than USB-C PD. So its capacity goes further than a similar capacity USB-C PD power bank.
The Anker PowerCore 10000 is compact, light (for a bunch of batteries), and inexpensive. It makes a nice first power bank for new Switch owners. A larger capacity power bank would keep your Switch running for longer. And a USB-C power bank would charge your Switch faster. But either increases your cost, and if you aren’t sure about your needs you could end up overbuying.
This power bank will charge the Switch fine while asleep. While playing it’ll charge under some conditions. But under most conditions it’ll only slow down the Switch’s battery drain. Worst case it can extend playtime by a few hours. I used it between play sessions with the Switch and stopped charging once the Switch was ~80%. This maximized charge time and use of the limited capacity. If you don’t want to stop playing after a few hours then you’ll want a more expensive USB-C option.
To charge the power bank itself you’ll want to use a USB-A charger. Any you have already will get the job done. You’ll get the fastest charge with one built for a tablet (5V/2A output). The included micro-USB cable is for charging the power bank. You could use a USB-C charger with a USB-C to micro-USB adapter. But why add one more item to travel with and increase your cost?
The other limit is the single USB-A port. You can only charge one device at a time. If you want to keep both your phone and Switch topped off you’ll need to balance that by switching back and forth. Unless you have a phone with USB-C you’ll need to change cables each time as well.
Anker has U.S. based support contacts (web, email, phone) and warranty service. They are a beloved brand within and outside of the Switch community.
Bottom Line
The Anker PowerCore 10000 is a low cost option for new Switch owners who don’t know their charging on the go needs yet. You will need a USB-C to USB-A cable, which does add to the cost. If you replace it later you could still use it for day trips with heavy phone use. It’ll also sell on the used or trade-in market.
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