The best power banks you can buy

Having a portable charger on hand is a great way to mitigate the 0% realities of modern mobile phones that are seemingly big on smarts and low on juice. Power banks come in a range of portable sizes and internal capacities, designed to recharge everything from phones and tablets through to more power-hungry items like laptops and handheld gaming consoles.

Let’s take a look at some of the best power banks you can buy in Australia today for different prices, devices and use cases.

There are honestly many power banks that could take out this top spot. The best power bank has a good mix of capacity, portability and price. You’ll find all three in the Cygnett ChargeUp Reserve Gen2. If you want to save some bucks and don’t need all that capacity, there is a cheaper, lighter 10,000mAh version. But I like the inherent versatility of the extra capacity. Charge up to three devices at a time with dual USB-C ports and a single USB-A port. You can fast charge a single device or share the 30W between gadgets. The main gripe is it doesn’t come with a power outlet for optimal recharging speed.

Alternatively, consider 10,000mAh or 20,000mAh power banks from competitors, like the Anker Power Bank, Belkin USB-C PD Power Bank, Iniu Power Bank, Charmast Wireless Power Bank or any other reputable brand with great user scores.

Power banks are so prevalent these days that there are lots of options below $50. The Veektomx Mini Power Bank retails for under $50 but has some great features. For starters, it boasts a 10,000mAh capacity in a lightweight design that’s small enough to slip into a pocket. Practically speaking, that’s enough juice for two and a half charges of an iPhone 13, two charges for a Samsung Galaxy S22 and one and a half charges for an iPad Pro. While the MicroUSB input port feels outdated in a power bank, there are USB-C and USB-A output ports for charging devices with up to 22.5W output.

Alternatively, consider similarly priced, 10,000mAh capacity alternatives like the Heymix Power Bank, Charmast Power Bank, Anker Portable Charger or Iniu Power Bank.

There are many power banks targeted at smartphone recharging, including brand-specific ones like MagSafe power banks for the iPhone 14. Given the mix of Android and iPhones in Australia, though, it’s worth considering something more platform agnostic, like the Sol + Sonder Everyday Solar power bank. This power bank shuns the typical electronic brick look for a Napa leather folio-type design. Fold that leather folio open to reveal three solar panels, which can be removed for independent power bank recharging. The power bank itself slots into a pocket inside the folio and has two USB-C ports and dual USB-A ports for recharging devices. While the 5,000mAh isn’t extreme, it’s enough to comfortably recharge a device, plus the solar panels can add extra easy capacity if you’re outside on a sunny day.

Alternatively, consider a smaller, cheaper 5,000mAh power bank like the Veektomx Mini Power Bank, Charmast Mini Power Bank (or Mini USB C for Android devices) or the Vrurc Lipstick Charger for iPhone.

The first thing you’ll notice when you unbox the Anker 737 Power Bank is the chonk. Yes, it’s comparatively large and it’s also comparatively heavy. But that heft is understandable given what the Anker 737 Power Bank is packing. For starters, it has an impressive 24,000mAh capacity. That gives you options. Either charge three devices simultaneously via dual USB-C and a single USB-A port. Alternatively, charge devices more powerful than smartphones and tablets with up to 140W output. Practically speaking, that makes the Anker 737 Power Bank a great choice for keeping a Steam Deck or other handheld gaming PC juiced up. It’s even got enough output wattage to charge compatible laptops (if you’ve got the right USB-C cable). I just wish the Anker 737 Power Bank came with a wall charger instead of just a USB cable.

For laptop-charging alternatives, consider the Xiaomi Zmi No.20 (25,000mAh), Iniu Power Bank (25,000mAh), Comsol Laptop Power Bank (20,000mAh or 25,600mAh) or Veektomx Laptop Power Bank (20,000mAh).

All of the power banks listed above will comfortably travel outside. But none of them are particularly protected against the elements. That’s where the Zham Solar Power Bank steps in for your next outdoor adventure. The durable exterior is designed for bumps and outdoor conditions, and this power bank also has an IP67 waterproof rating. There’s a practical LED flashlight on one end, plus rubber protectors that house three USB-A ports and one USB-C charging port. It’s also great to see a power bank with Qi wireless charging for compatible devices, plus the practical inclusion of solar recharging. Sure, the Zham Solar Power Bank has some heft, but it’s also got a lot of practical inclusions at a competitive price.

For outdoor alternatives, consider the Blavor Solar Power Bank or any other rugged power bank with plenty of capacity to help you stay recharged when you next head off grid.