Anker Switch Power Bank Review
Anker’s second Nintendo Switch-branded power bank is small enough to fit inside your with an all-day charge.
Anker’s 13,400mAh Switch-branded power bank is much smaller than some of the previous power banks produced by the accessory company. The 20,100mAh model has been the go-to recommendation for Switch gamers since the console debuted last March, but this newer model is much more portable while still providing over a charge and a half of extra play time.
Look Feel
It’s a bit of a fingerprint magnet…
The power bank features one USB-A and one USB-C port, so you can charge two devices at the same time. A small Anker logo appears on the front of the power bank and there is a series of eight tiny white LEDs that indicate how much juice is left in the power bank.
Flipping it over, you’ll see a Nintendo Switch logo branded on the back of the device. It’s simple, weighs just nine ounces, and it is made out of a soft-touch material that reveals fingerprints like nothing else.
Anker includes a small felt bag to store the power bank when it’s not in use. It’s a nice touch, but I’ve been using mine to store extra cables rather than keeping the power bank inside of it.
Anker PowerCore Charge Times
Test #1: Charging Switch with screen off
To test how long this power bank will take to charge a Switch, I completely drained my Switch battery down to 0% and then plugged in the power bank and set an interval timer to check on the charging progress every 10 minutes. The Switch screen was turned off the entire time and was only turned on at every 10 minute interval to record the charge percentage. Here’s a peek at the data from this experiment showcasing how long it takes this power bank to charge the Switch’s 4,310 mAh battery.
| Time Charging | Percent Charged |
| 10 minutes | 6% charged |
| 20 minutes | 14% charged |
| 30 minutes | 22% charged |
| 40 minutes | 30% charged |
| 50 minutes | 38% charged |
| 60 minutes | 46% charged |
| 70 minutes | 54% charged |
| 80 minutes | 62% charged |
| 90 minutes | 70% charged |
| 100 minutes | 76% charged |
| 110 minutes | 82% charged |
| 120 minutes | 86% charged |
| 130 minutes | 90% charged |
| 140 minutes | 93% charged |
| 150 minutes | 96% charged |
In total, it took this Anker power bank about two and a half hours to fully charge the Switch. It slowed down significantly once the Switch reached 85% charge, which is a normal feature of power banks and modern devices to prevent overcharge from frying your device.
An hours worth of charge will top you off at just over 50%, which means you can charge your Switch on your lunch break and be ready to go for the commute home. Keep in mind that these charging times are with the screen off and not playing games. Charging while the Switch screen is on and playing games will result in longer charging times. To get a better idea of the charge times you can expect while playing the Switch, see the next test results.
Test #2: Charging Switch with screen on
Taking about two and a half hours to charge the Switch with the screen off is not bad. But can the Anker PowerCore stand the test of charging a Switch from around 10% up to 100% in one play session?
To perform this test, I let my Switch’s charge fall to 10% and then plugged in the power bank and proceeded to play a variety of Switch games like Enter the Gungeon and Dead Cells. I checked the power level every 20 minutes in this test. The screen stayed on the whole time this charging test was performed.
| Time Charging | Percent Charged |
| 20 minutes | 16% charged |
| 40 minutes | 28% charged |
| 60 minutes | 36% charged |
| 80 minutes | 44% charged |
| 100 minutes | 51% charged |
| 120 minutes | 59% charged |
| 140 minutes | 67% charged |
| 160 minutes | 76% charged |
I stopped at the 160 minute mark because I had things I needed to do that didn’t involve having fun with the Switch, but as you can see, this power bank is perfectly capable of charging the Switch while you play it. The charge rate isn’t as fast as with the screen off, but it’s still more than acceptable to keep you gaming while you’re on the go.
Final Thoughts
Good
- Completely charges the Switch in 2.5 hours with screen off
- Charged the Switch to 76% in 2.7 hours with screen on
- Light and compact enough to fit in your
- Charge two devices at once with USB-C and USB-A ports
- Only takes about 3.5 hours to recharge the power bank
Ehh
- The svelte material it is made from is a fingerprint magnet
- Gets mildly warm when charging while playing the Switch
Conclusion
The Anker PowerCore 13,400 is a great compact power bank that will give you about a charge and a half of your Switch while out and about. It’s small enough to fit into the palm of your hand and the LED ring lights on the button will tell you how much juice you’ve got left. Recharging massive power banks can be a pain, but this one only took about 3.5 hours to reach full charge.
If you’re looking for a smaller power bank than the Anker PowerCore 20,100mAh to add to your every day carry for devices like your Switch, smartphone, or laptop, definitely consider this smaller version. I’ve used it to charge my Switch and play Pokemon Go for hours on end and it has served me well.
Disclaimer: Anker provided this power bank as a review sample for us to share our opinion with you. This has not influenced our opinion of this accessory in the slightest.
Review: Anker PowerCore 13400 Nintendo Switch Edition
Tuesday, July 10th, 2018 at 9:30 PM by James Montemagno accessory portable charger powercore anker review
This year’s E3 brought us tons of new games to look forward to, but also some great new accessories including the announcement of Anker’s partnership with Nintendo to bring officially licensed battery packs to the Nintendo Switch. I have wanted to pick up a battery pack for my Switch since I first got it, but was always worried about picking up a cheap option that potentially could ruin my Switch. This is why this partnership was really exciting to me as I have owned several Anker products over the years and have really enjoyed them.
Anker has released two models that are available today for Pre-Order (although I got mine a week after ordering). The first is a larger PowerCore 20100 that will charge the Nintendo Switch 2.5 times (about 15 extra hours) and can recharge in 3 hours. Then there is the smaller PowerCore 13400, which is what I ordered and am reviewing, that will charge the Switch 1.7 times (about 10 extra hours) and can be recharged in 3.5 hours.
The 20100 comes in at the suggested price of 89.99 and the 13400 is a bit cheaper at 69.99.
The nice thing is that both of these have very similar features including:
- Charge While You Play
- USB-C Charing Cable included
- Standard USB with PowerIQ to charge other devices
- Matte Design with Nintendo Switch logo
- Officially licensed by Nintendo
Features
The 13400 has a beautiful design and is a great size that clocks in at about two Joy-cons if you put them side by side. It feels like a high quality product with its super sleek matte finish that does not attract finger prints at all. On the front of the 13400 is the Anker logo and a circlular button that can be pressed to see how much juice is left in the battery, while on the back is just the Nintendo Switch Logo. A large perk of the 13400 is that it clocks in at just 9.6 oz, which was a big selling point for me as I don’t want to have to carry around a lot of additional bulk in my Switch bag.
On the side is where you will spend most of your time and it features two inputs. The first is the USB-C input where you will charge the 13400 and also use the included USB-C to USB-C cable to charge the Nintendo Switch. There is also a standrad USB input that you can use to charge anything else such as your Smart phone. This is a nice touch because you may be on the go and tethering your phone to your Switch and want to charge both of them. The only negative here is that both models do NOT include a wall charging cable, which is a bit weird. Anker and Nintendo recommend using the Nintendo Switch adapter to charge these PowerCore power banks. This sounds like an alright idea, but the whole idea is to not bring the adapter with you or have to buy an additional one as it comes in at 29.99 for an official adapter on Amazon. Anker does offer other very similar PowerCore products, some are cheaper and some are a bit more in price and happen to come with a power adapter but aren’t technically licensed by Nintendo.
PowerCore In Action
The real question of this review is does it work? The answer is yes! While I was writing this review it charged my Switch 25% in about 30 minutes and the 13400’s battery level hasn’t even gone down, which is great. Sitting idle is fine while charging, but you also want a power bank that will be able to charge your Switch when you are actively playing a game. I can confidently say that the Anker PowerCore 13400 is up for the challenge in this department. I booted up Mario Tennis Aces and played for about 20 minutes and my Switch continued to go up in charged percentage.
Overall, I am really happy with the PowerCore 13400 as it and the 20100 are the ONLY officially licensed power banks on the market today. The only down side that I can see is the lack of the included power adapter does throw me off and seems like a bit of a money grab as you are already paying a premium for this product to get that officially licensed sticker and cool Nintendo Switch logo on the back.
So should you buy it?
I think it really depends on your needs and if you are comfortable spending 70 to 90 on a power bank for your Switch. For me it makes complete sense as I take my Switch with me everywhere I go and I always want to make sure I have full power. I also had already purchased a second official power adapter for my Switch when I first got it that I keep in my suitcase. For me the real incentive is that silly stamp from Nintendo that it is an officially licensed product that is tested and certified to work with your Nintendo Switch. In summary, the PowerCore Nintendo Switch editions are pricey, but are a must buy and the only thing I would buy for my Nintendo Switch.
Final Score
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Reviewed by James Motz Montemagno.
The PowerCore 13400 was purchased by James at full retail price from Anker.com.
[Power Delivery] Anker PowerCore 13400 Nintendo Switch Edition, The Official 13400mAh Portable.
Analyzed on
Pros Cons
This external charger for the nintendo switch actually seems to bring in a new sense of playing the console on-the-go, or if you want to use it as a portable console. It’s perfect for the airport, flights, and long car rides with limited charge ports. Read
This is the official nintendo switch endorsed charger. Works as advertised and is of good quality. Anker is legendary.
As they are not an authorized reseller that sounds like a waste of time. For what it’s worth, the customer service from pip gaming is fine.
Quality
I just use the USB a to USB c cable that came with my pro controller to charge my switch with the power bank. I just use the USB a to USB c cable that came with my pro controller to charge my switch with the power bank. Read Less
I’m satisfied with the timing of the delivery and the item was as advertised. I’m satisfied with the timing of the delivery and the item was as advertised. Read Less
This battery even fast charges my iPhone, with the purchase of a USB type c to lightning cable. This battery even fast charges my iPhone, with the purchase of a USB type c to lightning cable. Read Less
Packaging/appearance
I got the 20100 mah one trust me, buy it at best buy, i got it for 40 brand new at best buy in person, whereas here it is be. Read I got the 20100 mah one trust me, buy it at best buy, i got it for 40 brand new at best buy in person, whereas here it is being sold for 96. Read Less
Our engine has profiled the reviewer patterns and has determined that there is minimal deception involved.
Most positive review
This anker power core is a life saver I use my switch at work all night and this product helps me get over 15 hours of play time
This anker power core is a life saver I use my switch at work all night and this product helps me get over 15 hours of play time Read Less
Most authentic review
Unfortunately, the C to C cable this comes with is NOT, and I repeat NOT a quick charge capable cable. That’s the only real neg. Read
Unfortunately, the C to C cable this comes with is NOT, and I repeat NOT a quick charge capable cable. That’s the only real neg it has, but considering that the main reason you spend more for it than the nearly-identical non-branded unit is that unlike it’s cousin, you can use this to fast charge your Switch on the go, it’s a bit of a disappointment.It’s otherwise a very good purchase, as you’re not going to find much else besides the wall power brick that you can rapidly charge your Swanch with. Read Less
Helpful Insights
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
It is a licensed product by nintendo from anker, so if something were to go wrong with a nintendo licensed product i would hold the company accountable for a replacement.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
That’s the only real neg it has, but considering that the main reason you spend more for it than the nearly-identical non-branded unit is that unlike it’s cousin, you can use this to fast charge your switch on the go, it’s a bit of a disappointment.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
When you are the only game in town you can charge what you want.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
Please note there is no wall adaptor included for you to charge the battery.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
I didn’t buy this from amazon but on best buy.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
I got the 20100 mah one trust me, buy it at best buy, i got it for 40 brand new at best buy in person, whereas here it is being sold for 96.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
You might pay a bit more for this nintendo switch licensed brick, but you won’t waste your money on a sketchy alternative or three.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
Quit detecting charger and refused to charge anything when it was chargedanker refused to warranty
[Power Delivery] Anker PowerCore 13400 Nintendo Switch Edition, The Official 13400mAh Portable.
Pros Cons
This external charger for the nintendo switch actually seems to bring in a new sense of playing the console on-the-go, or if you want to use it as a portable console. It’s perfect for the airport, flights, and long car rides with limited charge ports. Read
This is the official nintendo switch endorsed charger. Works as advertised and is of good quality. Anker is legendary.
As they are not an authorized reseller that sounds like a waste of time. For what it’s worth, the customer service from pip gaming is fine.
Quality
I just use the USB a to USB c cable that came with my pro controller to charge my switch with the power bank. I just use the USB a to USB c cable that came with my pro controller to charge my switch with the power bank. Read Less
I’m satisfied with the timing of the delivery and the item was as advertised. I’m satisfied with the timing of the delivery and the item was as advertised. Read Less
This battery even fast charges my iPhone, with the purchase of a USB type c to lightning cable. This battery even fast charges my iPhone, with the purchase of a USB type c to lightning cable. Read Less
Packaging/appearance
I got the 20100 mah one trust me, buy it at best buy, i got it for 40 brand new at best buy in person, whereas here it is be. Read I got the 20100 mah one trust me, buy it at best buy, i got it for 40 brand new at best buy in person, whereas here it is being sold for 96. Read Less
Our engine has profiled the reviewer patterns and has determined that there is minimal deception involved.
Most positive review
This anker power core is a life saver I use my switch at work all night and this product helps me get over 15 hours of play time
This anker power core is a life saver I use my switch at work all night and this product helps me get over 15 hours of play time Read Less
Most authentic review
Unfortunately, the C to C cable this comes with is NOT, and I repeat NOT a quick charge capable cable. That’s the only real neg. Read
Unfortunately, the C to C cable this comes with is NOT, and I repeat NOT a quick charge capable cable. That’s the only real neg it has, but considering that the main reason you spend more for it than the nearly-identical non-branded unit is that unlike it’s cousin, you can use this to fast charge your Switch on the go, it’s a bit of a disappointment.It’s otherwise a very good purchase, as you’re not going to find much else besides the wall power brick that you can rapidly charge your Swanch with. Read Less
Helpful Insights
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
It is a licensed product by nintendo from anker, so if something were to go wrong with a nintendo licensed product i would hold the company accountable for a replacement.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
That’s the only real neg it has, but considering that the main reason you spend more for it than the nearly-identical non-branded unit is that unlike it’s cousin, you can use this to fast charge your switch on the go, it’s a bit of a disappointment.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
When you are the only game in town you can charge what you want.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
Please note there is no wall adaptor included for you to charge the battery.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
I didn’t buy this from amazon but on best buy.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
I got the 20100 mah one trust me, buy it at best buy, i got it for 40 brand new at best buy in person, whereas here it is being sold for 96.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
You might pay a bit more for this nintendo switch licensed brick, but you won’t waste your money on a sketchy alternative or three.
Posted by a reviewer on Amazon
Quit detecting charger and refused to charge anything when it was chargedanker refused to warranty