Best power banks for 2025 — picks, buying tips and what to look for

If you need reliable portable power, our 2025 power‑bank guide covers everything from pocket‑sized MagSafe packs to high‑capacity laptop bricks. We tested dozens of models for real‑world charge delivery, speed, ease of use and design to recommend the best options for different needs.

Key considerations when choosing a power bank include capacity (mAh), real output (wattage), port types, wireless (Qi2) support, and airline rules for carry‑on batteries. Below are quick buying tips and our top categories.

Top tips at a glance

• Capacity: Measured in mAh — small (5,000mAh) for a phone top‑up, 10,000–20,000mAh for multi‑charge days, and 25,000mAh+ for laptop support. Expect ~60% real‑world efficiency versus rated capacity.
• Ports & wattage: Prefer USB‑C PD ports for fast charging; check per‑port wattage (e.g., 65W, 100W) if you want to charge laptops.
• Wireless/Qi2: Qi2 magnetic banks (up to 25W on newer phones) are now viable — great for convenience, slightly less efficient than wired charging.
• Travel rules: TSA allows batteries ≤100Wh in carry‑on (most consumer banks comply). Keep larger power stations out of checked bags.
• Design & extras: Built‑in cables, LED percentage displays, MagSafe stands and AC outlets can be useful depending on your use case.

Category recommendations

• Best MagSafe/compact: 5,000–10,000mAh magnetic banks for iPhone users who want pocketable, attachable chargers.
• Everyday carry: 10,000mAh–20,000mAh banks with USB‑C PD for most smartphone users — balance of capacity and portability.
• Laptop & heavy use: 25,000mAh+ banks with 65–100W (or higher) USB‑C PD and multiple ports for charging laptops and multiple devices.
• Wireless & convenience: Qi2‑certified banks for magnetic alignment and up to 25W speeds on compatible phones.

How we tested

We charged phones, tablets and laptops from low battery to full using included cables where possible, timed charge sessions, and measured how many full device charges each bank delivered. We also assessed real‑world speeds, app and display features, and build quality.

Quick shortlist (examples from our tests)

• Anker and Mophie: reliable mid‑capacity and MagSafe options.
• UGREEN, Zendure, HyperJuice: high‑capacity laptop banks with strong wattage and multiple ports.
• EcoFlow Rapid, Baseus Blade: solid wireless and uniquely shaped options with fast charging.

For a quick shopping start, search power banks on Amazon (opens in a new tab): https://www.amazon.com/s?k=power+bank&tag=f1rede-20.

Discussion: What’s your must‑have feature in a power bank — ultimate capacity, fastest USB‑C PD, MagSafe convenience, or a built‑in cable? Share your use case and we’ll suggest the right class of charger.