Buying Guide for the Best Portable Chargers
When picking a portable charger, you want to make sure it fits your personal needs and the devices you plan to charge. Portable chargers, also called power banks, come in many shapes and sizes, each with features targeting different uses like travel, everyday carry, or heavy-duty charging. The right choice balances size, power, and compatibility so you’re never left with a dead battery when you need your device most.Capacity (mAh)This refers to how much energy the portable charger can store, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). A higher mAh means the charger can provide more charges; a little one might only top off your phone once, while a big one could charge your phone multiple times or power up larger devices like tablets. Small, lightweight chargers typically offer 3,000 to 5,000 mAh, making them perfect for emergencies or short trips. Medium ranges from around 10,000 to 15,000 mAh, giving a balance of size and charging ability – these are popular for daily use. Large power banks with 20,000 mAh or more suit those who need several charges or want to power bigger devices but are heavier and bulkier. To pick the right capacity for you, consider how often you’re away from an outlet and how many times you need to charge your device before you get home.
Output Ports and TypesThis is about how many devices you can charge at once and what kind of cable connections the charger offers. Most basic chargers have one output, usually a standard USB-A port, but some offer multiple ports (USB-A, USB-C, or even wireless charging pads). More ports mean you can charge more devices simultaneously, which is useful if you carry several gadgets or want to help a friend out. USB-C is becoming more common due to faster charging and compatibility with new devices. When picking, think about what devices you use (do they need USB-A, USB-C, or wireless?) and how many you might need to charge at the same time.
Input Charging SpeedThis determines how quickly the power bank itself can be recharged. Input speed is usually measured in watts (W) or amps (A). Older or basic models recharge slowly, sometimes taking up to 10 hours for a full charge, while models with fast input can be ready in as little as 2-4 hours. If you need to top up your charger quickly—say, between flights—look for higher input speeds. If you mostly charge your power bank overnight, slower speeds might not be a big concern.
Output Charging SpeedThis spec impacts how quickly the portable charger can refill your device’s battery. Measured in watts (W) or amps (A), faster output means your phone or tablet gets charged up quicker. Some chargers support fast-charging protocols like Quick Charge or Power Delivery, which can make a big difference with newer devices. If your device supports fast charging and you value quick top-ups, aim for a power bank with higher output (like 18W or above); otherwise, if overnight charging is fine, standard outputs will do.
Size and WeightPortability matters depending on how you plan to carry and use your power bank. Small models fit easily in your pocket or purse but offer less capacity, while larger models require more space but let you charge devices more times. For daily commuting or occasional use, a slim and light charger is usually best. For travel, hiking, or camping where you may not access power for long periods, a larger unit (even if heavier) makes more sense. Consider what you’ll realistically carry every day to avoid leaving it behind!
Safety FeaturesThese features protect both the power bank and your devices from issues like overcharging, overheating, or short-circuiting. Common safety technologies include over-voltage protection, temperature control, and surge protection. While most reputable power banks include these, it’s still wise to check, especially if you plan to use one with expensive gadgets. If you’re safety-conscious or will be charging devices unsupervised (like overnight or in a bag), look for clear safety certifications in the product description.