Need A Beefy Power Bank? Save 10% On This Powerhouse That Charges 3 Gadgets Including Your Laptop
Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.
As a geeky user of all sorts of electronics, I have tried my share of power banks. I’m talking about those portable batteries that you can use to charge up your phone and other mobile devices. Power banks come in all shapes and sizes, from.sized units to models that literally look like lunch boxes. And while you might think all power banks are more or less alike, there’s one I love so much I take it everywhere. And right now the Eggtonic by Einova Laptop Power Bank is on sale, so I wanted to tell you all about it.
The Eggtonic by Einova Laptop Power Bank is a super-fast 20,000-mAh portable battery that has three USB outputs which can deliver up to 63 watts of power at once. That’s pretty formidable, but it doesn’t end there. It has a soft fabric surface on the top and bottom as well as a digital display that tells you how much juice is left at any given moment. The power bank usually sells for 70—and I’d consider it a good value at that price—but right now you can save 10% when you use the exclusive promo code Forbes10 at checkout. Shipping is free, so you can get it for 63 delivered to your door.
Eggtonic by Einova Laptop Power Bank
I’ve used the Power Bank for a long time now and I can’t say enough good things about it. A power bank should “just work,” and it has never given me a lick of trouble. It has a soft, premium feel that makes it sort of fun to carry around, as well. I know that’s not essential, but once you have a few fabric-covered accessories, you don’t ever want to go back to hard plastic.
It measures 7×4 inches, is a half-inch thick and weighs just about a pound—in other words, it’s around the size of a small paperback and fits in your palm. There’s a status button on the side that’ll wake the hexagonal digital display in a corner of the top surface.
Of course, the real appeal here is the ability to charge up to three devices at once. You’ll find a USB-C port and a pair of Quick Charge 3.0 USB-A ports at one end of the power bank, and I’ve successfully used that set of ports to charge laptops, iPhones, Samsung phones, earbud cases and more.
The power bank can charge almost any Power Delivery-compatible laptop (a laptop that can be charged through a PD USB-C cable), though Einova suggests not using it with a MacBook Pro due to Apple’s excessive power requirements. For what it’s worth, I ignored that and used it to charge a MacBook Pro. It worked just fine, though it did run the battery down pretty fast. The MacBook limitation notwithstanding, I’ve had awesome success using the power bank to charge up laptops (like a Dell XPS 15) on the road.
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I’m the Deputy Editor for Forbes Vetted and though I started out in New Jersey, I am currently living near Detroit. After college, I served in the Air Force where I operated satellites, taught space operations and performed space launch planning.
After that, I spent eight years as a content lead on the Windows team at Microsoft. As a photographer, I have photographed wolves in their natural environment; I have been a scuba instructor; I co-hosted several podcasts including the popular Battlestar Recaptica. Currently, I’m one half of a podcast called Rick and Dave Control the Universe.
I am the author of nearly three dozen books about photography, mobile tech, and more; I’ve even authored an interactive storybook for kids. I have contributed to sites including CNET, PC World and Business Insider before joining Forbes Vetted.
The 13 Best Portable Chargers of 2023
We don’t leave home without the compact and speedy Anker PowerCore.
As a travel writer with 22 years of experience in print and digital publishing, Jill Schildhouse has traveled to 36 countries and is always busy planning her next adventure. She’s a self-proclaimed medium-maintenance packer, so she’s always busy testing travel products and loves finding solutions that can serve a dual purpose.
Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist and editor who has traveled across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, and spent more than a decade reviewing hotel room.
In This Article
If it seems as though the travel and hospitality industries are finding new ways to make your life more convenient while away from home, you’re right — integrated outlets in airport terminals, in-flight Wi-Fi, and USB ports built into hotel nightstands are everywhere you look. Yet somehow, even with all these modern amenities, it’s still too easy to find yourself in a situation where there’s no access to power. From older aircrafts without outlets to nonstop sightseeing, most devices don’t have the stamina to keep up with a full day on the go without some help.
Luckily, there are many compact power solutions for travelers to stay connected to their favorite laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Our favorite is the Anker PowerCore 13000 Portable Charger, because of its small size, affordable price tag, and ability to work with Android and Apple devices. But to help you find the right option for your next getaway, we rounded up the best portable chargers for travel below.
Best Overall
Anker PowerCore 13000 Portable Battery
- This affordable, upgraded model is still compact in size, but offers plenty of power for your Android and Apple devices.
- It will only charge your iPad mini 4 one-and-a-half times, so it may not be ideal for overseas flights.
There’s a time and a place for lugging a large portable charger around. But then there are also times where you just need a little extra juice to get you through a long work day or short flight — and the Anker PowerCore 13000 Portable Charger offers the latter. It’s a compact option that’s smaller than a wallet, and easily slips into your purse or carry-on (heck, it can even slip into your hoodie while running through an airport).
You’ll find two high-speed USB ports and a 13,000 mAH capacity, which can charge your iPhone, Galaxy, or iPad mini multiple times (but you’ll need to use your original Apple charging cable for those devices, as that’s not included). It’s also flight-approved and sold with an 18-month warranty.
Price at time of publish: 40
The Details: 3.8 x 3.1 x 0.9 inches | 9 ounces | 13,000 mAh | 1 Input Port | 2 USB Output Ports
Best Budget
Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 Portable Charger
- The USB-C cable, Lightning cable, and AC adapter are not included, and the two input ports cannot be used at the same time.
Hard on your portable chargers? That’s OK, the Anker 313 can handle whatever comes your way when traveling, including a 1-meter drop. This product has universal capability for a wide range of phones and tablets (though it doesn’t support Qualcomm Quick Charge), alongside a fireproof casing with advanced temperature control so you aren’t at risk of handling hot equipment. There’s also an overcharge protection feature to keep your devices safe, as well as an 18-month warranty to count on.
Price at time of publish: 22
The Details: 5.87 x 2.68 x 0.55 inches | 7.5 ounces | 10,000 mAh | 1 USB Input Port | 1 USB-C, 1 Micro USB Output Ports
Best Wireless
Belkin BoostCharge Magnetic Wireless Power Bank 5K Stand
- The BoostCharge uses MagSafe technology and has a pop-up stand so you can keep using your device while it’s charging.
How many times have you brought your portable charger with you on the road only to discover that you left the cables behind and can’t even use it? That will never happen with the Belkin BoostCharge Magnetic Wireless Power Bank 5K Stand because it charges even your iPhone 14 without any pesky cables or the need to connect to an outlet (once it’s powered up). Now that you’re breathing a sigh of relief, you can also marvel at the fold-out stand at the bottom, which holds your phone upright so you can stream or do a video call while you power up. Just how much juice can you expect? It’ll give you 19 hours of video playback on an iPhone 13. Another bonus feature is the pass-through charging, so you can connect and charge simultaneously.
Price at time of publish: 60
The Details: 3.68 x 0.65 x 2.5 inches | 0.37 pounds | 5,000 mAh | 1 USB-C Input Port| 1 USB-C Output Port
Best 2-in-1
Anker 633 Magnetic Wireless Charger
- Charge your iPhone and Airpods at the same time with one portable device, and get 17 extra hours of video playtime.
These days, it’s hard to imagine traveling anywhere without a handful of devices — you have your phone, tablet, laptop, headphones, and maybe even a smartwatch. Make keeping up with your thirsty devices simple with the Anker 633 Magnetic Wireless Charger, which can simultaneously charge your iPhone and wireless earbuds. Rotate the angle vertically or horizontally, so you can still use your device as needed while it’s charging. The coolest part? If you just hold your iPhone near it, it’ll snap into place automatically (so no more fidgeting to find that magical “sweet spot”).
Price at time of publish: 120
The Details: 4.24 x 4.25 x 6.22 inches | 12.3 ounces | 5,000 mAh | 1 USB-C Input Port | 1 Output Port for iPhone, 1 for Airpods (both wireless)
Best With Wall Plug
Brand Q 10000mAh Ultra Slim Portable Charger
- This built-in wall plug charger comes with a carrying case and three built-in cables, so it’s compatible with every phone.
Sometimes it’s nice to have an old-fashioned wall plug to count on, like Q’s 10,000mAh Ultra Slim Portable Charger. This external battery pack comes with three built-in cords to accommodate any model phone you’re carrying — and this variety can also come in handy if someone asks to borrow your charger or if you have an iPhone for personal use and an Android for work. Always losing track of your charger? This model comes with a customized bag to house it for safe storage that’s easy to locate. Depending on your phone, you’ll get up to four charges out of the Brand Q Ultra Slim.
Price at time of publish: 40
The Details: 6.29 x 2.95 x 0.6 inches | 13.1 ounces | 10,000 mAh | AC wall plug Input Port, micro USB | 1 USB Output Port, 3 cables
Best With A/C Outlet
SinKeu Portable Laptop Charger with AC Outlet
The SinKeu Portable Laptop Charger has some serious power packed into its one-pound design, which means it’s enough to power a smartphone, tablet, digital camera, and laptop, too. It’s easy to know how much juice you have left, thanks to the OLED display — but you don’t have to watch too closely, as it can recharge your iPhone or Galaxy up to eight times. It’s compatible with AC plug devices less than 65W, and the USB supports pass-through charging. The SinKeu is also ideal for camping or long road trips, as it comes with a DC plug-in 12V automobile auxiliary power outlet (cigarette lighter adapter) for your car.
Price at time of publish: 120
The Details: 6.8 x 3.8 x 1.8 inches | 1.1 pounds | 24,000 mAh | 1 AC Input Port | 2 USB Output Ports
Best for Fast Charging
Baseus Power Bank 65W
- When there’s no time to waste, the Baseus can charge a Mac laptop in 2 hours or a Samsung S22 Ultra to 50 percent in 30 minutes.
There’s nothing worse than standing around waiting for your devices to charge, which is why time-conscious travelers need a fast-charging power bank like this one. In just 30 minutes, it’ll charge your MacBook Pro 16 inch to 30 percent, which should be more than enough time to finish your emails or that PowerPoint presentation. It’s cleared for air travel and offers universal compatibility thanks to its USB-C port (for laptops and tablets) and USB-A port (for phones and Airpods). Oh, and the power bank recharges in just two hours. Now what will you do with all that extra time on your hands? Watch more videos and play more games online, presumably. Enjoy!
Price at time of publish: 80
The Details: 5.71 x 2.56 x 1.5 inches | 1.21 pounds | 20,000 mAh | 1 USB Input Port | 1 USB-C and 4 USB-A Output Ports
Most Compact
ChargeCard Ultra-Thin Credit Card Sized Portable Charger Battery Bank
- ChargeCard is literally the size of a credit card, works for both iPhone and Android, and comes with interchangeable cables.
It’s hard to imagine that a charger the size of a credit card even exists, but it does — and the ChargeCard will have you rethinking how far technology has come. As long as you understand this device’s limitations, you’ll be impressed with this little charger (read: it won’t have enough juice to power up your devices for an international flight, so expect a boost of 30-90 percent of your phone’s charging power). You’ll also never be without it because you can literally store it in your wallet — plus, you don’t have to carry any separate cables, because it comes with built-ins for Android and Apple devices. And finally, you’ll never have to guess where you stand, because the indicator lights let you know how much power remains.
Price at time of publish: 60
The Details: 3.3 x 2.2 x 0.18 inches | 2.1 ounces | 2,300 mAh | 1 Input Port | 1 lighting, 1 USB-C, 1 Micro-USB Output Ports
Best for Phones
Zendure SuperMini Portable Charger 20W
- It looks a bit like a mini suitcase thanks to its sleek metallic texture, and it performs like a champ when charging two devices at once.
The Zendure SuperMini Portable Charger may be small, but it’s awfully mighty. We’re talking roughly the size of a credit card (though thicker), which means it’s the perfect size to slip into your purse or It’s fast charging, and will give your iPhone a 50 percent boost in just 30 minutes, plus it will charge your phone a couple of times through. Looking to charge wearables, such as smartwatches and wireless earbuds? Double press the power button to use a “low power” charging mode. It comes with a two-year warranty and a USB-C to USB-C charging cable.
Price at time of publish: 60
The Details: 3.11 x 2.2 x 1.02 inches | 6.3 ounces | 10,000 mAh | 1 USB-C Input Port| 1 USB-A, 1 USB-C Output Ports
Best for Tablets
Mophie Powerstation XXL
- This high-capacity power bank is strong enough to power your tablet, and can handle three devices at the same time.
Most portable power banks can handle charging a phone a few times, but charging tablets takes a bit more oomph. The Mophie Powerstation XXL delivers thanks to its 20,000 mAh battery and 18W USB-C power delivery output (read: fast charging!) Sick of scuff marks and scratches on your devices? This Mophie is made of a premium fabric to help prevent unsightly wear and tear — it also enhances the grip, so you won’t risk dropping it. The LED power indicator lets you know how much battery life is left, but know that in a pinch it can also charge your laptop.
Price at time of publish: 60
The Details: 3.05 x 6.26 x 0.98 inches | 15.4 ounces | 20,000 mAh | 1 USB-C Input Port | 2 USB-A, 1 USB-C Output Ports
Best for Laptops
Einova Ultra Fast 63W Power Bank
- This laptop power bank is surprisingly affordable, can charge three devices at once, and can boost your MacBook Air or Pro with no problems.
With the Einova Ultra Fast Power Bank, the ability to power up your life is at your fingertips. Three charging ports (a USB-C, USB-A, and USB-A quick charge) mean you can boost your laptop, tablet, and phone simultaneously without having to pick and choose which is the most important. It’s compatible with MacBook, Dell, Lenovo, and HP, not to mention a variety of tablets, smartphones, and cameras. The linen canvas material is soft to the touch and also water-repellent for added durability. While some chargers make it difficult to tell exactly how much power you have remaining, the Einova displays it with clear numbers (from 0-100) that eliminate any guesswork.
Price at time of publish: 70
The Details: 6.7 x 4 x 0.6 inches | 1 pound | 20,000 mAh | 1 USB-C Input Port | 1 USB-C, 2 USB-A Output Ports
Best for Apple Watches
Satechi Quatro Wireless Power Bank
- Designed to power your Apple Watch wirelessly, the Satechi Quatro is also compatible with iPad Air, iPad Pro, iPhones 11-14, and Airpods.
What happens when you need to charge your iPhone, Airpods, and Apple Watch at the same time? You buy a Satechi Quatro Wireless Power Bank and let it do all that hard work for you. The 10,000 mAh capacity recharges your iPhone 11 up to two times while your Apple Watch charges wirelessly through the built-in module, and your Airpods get a boost through the Qi wireless charger. Featuring a mirrored-edge finish that oozes quality and acts as a nod to Apple aesthetics, the design is sleek (as is the material, so be sure you have a good grip or you might risk dropping it).
Price at time of publish: 100
The Details: 6.4 x 2.9 x 0.7 inches | 10.9 ounces | 10,000 mAh | USB-C Input Port | USB-A, USB-C Output Ports
Best Solar
Riapow Solar Power Bank
- The Riapow not only offers wireless solar power, but it has a handy built-in LED flashlight too — and it’s airplane-safe.
Consider the Riapow Solar Power Bank a camper’s and roadtripper’s best friend — you know, the one you can count on in an emergency. This product is waterproof and drop-resistant, which comes in handy for hikes and other outdoor activities. If you need some extra illumination but forgot to pack a flashlight, you’ll be relieved to discover this offers three modes (steady, flashing and SOS) to light up your path. You’ll get three charges for an iPad mini and six for a Galaxy S21, and it can charge four devices simultaneously. And, while the solar charging is slow, it’s a priceless feature when circumstances warrant it.
Price at time of publish: 40
The Details: 6.9 x 3.3 x 1.1 inches | 1.01 pound | 26,800 mAh | solar panel, 1 USB-C Input Port | 1 wireless, 2 USB, 1 USB-C Output Ports
Tips for Buying Power Banks for Travel
Consider charge time and battery life
The two biggest factors when choosing which portable power bank to bring on your travels are charge time and battery life. Charge speed tells you how long it takes to charge specific devices, and this will vary by device type (laptops will take longer to charge than smartphones, for instance). Battery life refers to the number of times a power bank can charge your device(s) before it needs to be recharged. The higher the battery life, the better — but this will often also increase the product’s size and cost, so factor that in.
Look at the types and number of ports
There are several types of ports on power banks, and you’ll want to choose what’s compatible with your devices (or be prepared to purchase a separate adapter). USB-A ports are common for charging many smartphones and tablets, though USB-C ports are becoming even more common because they can support fast charging and be used to charge the power bank itself. A Lightning port is used exclusively to charge Apple devices, such as iPhones and iPads. The more ports, the more devices you can charge at once.
Know the capacity you have and need
Most portable chargers have a capacity measured in milliamp-hours (mAh), which determines how much energy they can store and how many times they can charge a device before needing to be recharged themselves — the higher the number, the more charges you’ll get.
While most batteries are sold in mAh, FAA rules FOCUS on “watt hours” (Wh): Lithium ion rechargeable batteries, like in a power bank, are limited to a rating of 100-watt hours per battery. To calculate watt hours, multiply the volts (V) by the ampere hours (Ah). For example, a 12-volt battery rated to 8 amp hours is rated at 96 watt hours. For milliamp hours (mAh), divide by 1,000 and then multiply by the volts. To learn more about batteries and flying, visit FAA.gov.
Portable chargers, also known as power banks, work by storing electrical energy in a rechargeable battery and then using that stored energy to charge other devices. When you plug your portable charger into a power source, such as a wall outlet, it recharges its internal battery. Then, when you need to charge a device — such as a smartphone, tablet or laptop — you can connect it to the portable charger using the appropriate cable. The portable charger will then transfer its stored energy to the device, effectively “charging” it.
According to the TSA, portable chargers or power banks containing a lithium-ion battery must be packed in your carry-on bag. The reason you can’t check them is because lithium batteries can overheat, posing a risk of fire on the aircraft. Similarly, damaged or recalled batteries and battery-powered devices may not be carried onboard an aircraft (either in checked baggage or your carry on) because they could cause a spark.
Why Trust Travel Leisure
For this article, TL contributor Jill Schildhouse researched dozens of chargers and used her 20-plus years experience as a travel writer to choose the best portable power banks.
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