The best power banks for bushcraft, camping, hiking and emergencies
Find the best power bank for your outdoor trips. I present to you the 9 best and by me tested power banks as well as a detailed buying guide.
From Martin Gebhardt. Check out my “About me” page.
👉 The key facts from this guide
- Power banks are essential for outdoor activities and emergency situations to charge devices such as smartphones, lamps, and even laptops.
- The INIU Powerbank 10000 is the best choice due to its charging times, speeds, and additional ports.
- The Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 is a strong alternative, although it only has one USB-A port.
- For a compact and affordable option, the Anker Nano Power Bank is ideal.
- The Anker PowerCore II 20000 offers high capacity while being relatively light.
- It is important to consider the capacity (mAh), number of outputs and inputs, weight, and dimensions of a power bank before making a purchase decision.
Outside, I need power. Especially when I am on the road for several days.
I need to charge my smartphone to navigate, or my headlamp needs a new power source.
Here it is not only about needing light in the dark, but also about being able to communicate in case of emergency.
You should be confident that you can charge a phone, a headlamp, or other devices, regardless of what situation you are in.
And for that, I have acquired several power banks that have been accompanying me on my journeys for a long time.
In this buying guide, I will now introduce you to my best power banks and also tell you what to look out for when making a purchase.
Why a power bank is essential not only in the wilderness
The purpose of a power bank is to charge battery-powered electronics on the go.
Power banks are used to charge smartphones, lamps, tablets, speakers, and even laptops.
Being prepared with a power bank means staying connected with the rest of the world.
But not only in the wilderness does a power bank help you to get electricity. Power supply is also part of emergency preparedness.
In an emergency, being prepared is an important strategy at any time of the year.
From a fancy transformer to floods, from earthquakes to heat-related power outages, and from wind that destroys a telephone mast, there are many types of natural disasters and man-made disasters.
Through these disasters, the power supply is interrupted. In these situations, the better prepared you are, the easier it will be to deal with the situation.
Certain items, from water to a power bank, can make all the difference.
So, be always prepared to communicate and pack a power bank in your backpack or Bug Out Bag.
The 9 best power banks for survival, bushcraft, and emergency preparedness
I have looked at 9 of the best portable chargers from major brands and popular competitors.
So, this is what I did: I sat down with a stopwatch and repeatedly discharged the iPhone 12 and then measured how long it takes to charge. I did this with each power bank and recorded the values.
It was measured how fast they load and how many full smartphone charges each power bank stores.
The power banks in my list are all represented in the bestseller lists, but differ in some points.
I have ordered them in the order in which I would buy them.
My tests were conducted using the same iPhone 12. I set the screen brightness to 100% and tested the following things:
- How much charge is done in 15 minutes?
- How much charge is done in 60 minutes?
- How much time does it take to fully charge the iPhone 12 from 0%?
- How many times could I recharge the iPhone 12 from 0%?
If you're constantly trying to keep your phone at 100%, or worried about it running out of battery in the wilderness, I now have the details you need.
That also includes which chargers have which and how many ports, so you can even charge multiple devices at the same time.
The best power banks you can buy today
I will now introduce you to my 9 best power banks. First, you will find a quick overview in a table here.
Product | mAh | Outputs | Inputs | Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|
INIU Powerbank 10000 | 10000 | 2x USB-A, 1x USB-C | 1x USB-C | 200 grams |
Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 | 10000 | 1x USB-A | 1x USB-C | 213 grams |
Anker Nano Power Bank | 5000 | 1x USB-C | 1x USB-C | 99 grams |
Anker PowerCore II 20000 | 20000 | 2x USB-A | 1x USB-C, 1x Micro-USB | 342.5 grams |
INIU 20W 20000 Powerbank | 20000 | 2x USB-A, 1x USB-C | 1x USB-C | 365 grams |
EnergyCell 10000 Powerbank | 10000 | 1x USB-A | 1x Micro-USB | 172 grams |
Anker PowerCore 5000 | 5000 | 1x USB-A | 1x Micro-USB | 136 grams |
Ekrist Powerbank 26800 | 26800 | 2x USB-A | 1x Micro-USB | 350 grams |
Miady Powerbank Doppelpack | 2x 10000 | 2x USB-A |
And now I will address each device individually. Let's get started.
INIU 10000mAh Portable Charger
For me, the INIU with 10,000mAh is the best power bank.
Amazon
Offer
Data updated 2 hours ago
- From INIU--the SAFE Fast Charge Pro: Experience the safest charging with over 38 million global users. At INIU, we use only the highest-grade materials, so we do have the confidence to provide an industry-leading 3 years iNiu Care.
- Market's Thinnest 10000mAh: The market’s one and only 0.5-inch power bank that breaks the limit of 10000mAh, easily slipped into any travel lover's pockets or bag. Enjoy the days’ worth of charging capacity, enough to top up iPhone 8 3.6 times, Samsung S22 1.8 times, or AirPods Pro 13.2 times.
- Only 5% Got USB-C IN&OUT: INIU is the only 5% of power banks got a USB-C IN&OUT port. Unlike others only recharge via USB-C port, INIU can charge all devices with your USB-C cables directly.
- 3A High-Speed Charging: 3A fast charging fuels iPhone up to 78% in just one hour. INIU's AutoFit identifies and meets your device's ideal speed, charging double than 2.1A chargers.
- 15-Layer SAFE Charging: INIU's unique 15-Layer SmartProtect system shrugs off any unusual charging at the start. Take overheating risk and battery damage away from your devices.
$17.99
List Price: $21.98
You may have expected the Anker power bank with 10000mAh. But I have to disappoint you, even though the race is damn close.
This power bank from INIU is one of the best portable chargers because not only the charging times and speeds are at the top of the table, but it also has two USB-A outputs and a USB-C output/input, unlike the single USB-A charging port of the Anker PowerCore Slim 10000.
And since these additional ports can make a difference in whether you power other devices while charging your phone (or whether you help a friend when they need it), I give the overall preference to the INIU.
In addition, the affordable price is unbeatable. And what's really outstanding is that you can even get a set of two INIU power banks (10000mAh) for a great price (about €37).
Here are the facts about the power bank:
- Capacity: 10000mAh
- Outputs: 2x USB-A, 1x USB-C
- Inputs: 1x USB-C
- Weight: 200 grams
- Dimensions: 13.2 x 6.9 x 1.3 cm
Advantages
Fast short-term charging
2 USB-A ports
1 USB-C port
Great price-performance ratio
Disadvantages
Not the fastest power bank for a full battery charge
Flashlight not necessary
For a brand that I wasn't so familiar with, the INIU power bank proved itself in the 15-minute and one-hour charging processes (at 22% and 78%), which were 1 to 2% ahead of the Anker PowerCore Slim power bank.
Only in the charging time for a complete smartphone, it couldn't beat the Anker power bank and lagged behind the Anker charger with a time of 2 hours four minutes.
Both power banks (INIU 10000mAh and Anker 10000mAh) charge the iPhone 12 about 2.2 to 2.25 times. So, they are practically on par.
Here are some more charging times:
- Samsung S8: 2.3 charges
- iPhone 8: 3.6 charges
- AirPods Pro: 13.2 charges
- iPad Air: 1.2 charges
Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 (Anker 313 Power Bank)
The Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 is one of the strongest challengers. However, there are a few points why it has slipped to second place.
Nevertheless, I really like the power bank, and it is one of the best portable chargers for your devices.
- - Charge Fast Anywhere: The 20W USB-C port has enough power to charge an iPhone 12 to 50% in just 30 minutes. Also equipped with a 12W USB port if you need to charge a second device.
- - Super Slim: At only 0.6 inches thick, this 20W portable charger fits in any backpack, purse, or work bag.
- - Backup Power: The 10,000mAh cell capacity gives you enough power to charge an iPhone 13 more than once, a Samsung S20 more than one and a half times, and an iPad mini 5 once.
- - Safe Travels: PowerCore 10K features our exclusive MultiProtect safety system which combines a fire-resistant casing, temperature control, and many more safety features so you can charge anywhere with no worries.
- - What You Get: Anker 523 Power Bank (PowerCore 10K), USB-A to USB-C cable, USB-C to USB-C cable, welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
$25.99
View ProductIf it weren't for the single USB-A port, I would give the Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 the first place.
Moreover, the Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 power bank is slightly heavier (213 grams compared to 200 grams) than the INIU power bank.
But be careful, I am testing the version with the 20W input, which costs about €4 more than the version without the 20W input.
Here are the facts about the power bank:
- Capacity: 10000 mAh
- Outputs: 1x USB-A
- Inputs: 1x USB-C
- Weight: 213 grams
- Dimensions: 14.9 x 6.8 x 1.4 cm
Advantages
High performance
Fast charging times
Fast charging possible (4.5 hours with 20W, 9 hours with 10W)
18-month warranty
Disadvantages
Only one USB-A output
The charging times are very close to the INIU power bank (21% in 15 minutes, 76% in one hour). To fully charge my iPhone 12, the Anker power bank only took 1 hour and 56 minutes - faster than the INIU power bank.
If you only want to charge one device at a time and the selling price of the PowerCore Slim 10000 is not a decisive factor, you should get this power bank.
Here are some more charging times:
- iPhone XS: 2.5 charges
- Galaxy S10: 2.4 charges
- iPad mini 5: 1.3 charges
Anker Nano Power Bank
The Anker Nano Power Bank 5000 is the best portable charger that fits in your pocket.
Amazon
Offer
Data updated 0 hours ago
- Two-Port High-Speed Charging: Experience high-speed charging with dual USB-C ports and advanced PowerIQ 3.0 technology, delivering an impressive 22.5W output.
- Foldable USB-C Connector: Say goodbye to cable tangles and protect your USB-C connector with a convenient foldable design for hassle-free charging.
- The Perfect Size: Enjoy the perfect blend of style and functionality, meticulously crafted to effortlessly fit into your pocket or purse.
- All-Day Power: Get uninterrupted charging during your travels with the reliable 5,000mAh capacity, keeping your devices powered up wherever you go.
- What You Get: Anker Nano Power Bank (22.5W, Built-In USB-C Connector), 2 ft / 0.6 m USB-C to USB-C cable, welcome guide, user manual, 24-month worry-free warranty, and our friendly customer service.
$19.99
List Price: $29.99
Not everyone needs a complete device to fully charge their phone. Occasionally, you just want the convenience of some power.
Perhaps the Anker Nano Power Bank 5000 is exactly the backup you need for your day trip or overnight stay.
- Capacity: 5000 mAh
- Outputs: 1x USB-C
- Inputs: 1x USB-C
- Weight: 99 grams
- Dimensions: 5.16 x 3.98 x 1.42 inches
Advantages
Cheaper than most
Small and compact
Fast charging
Disadvantages
Low power
The numbers between the Anker Nano Power Bank 5000 and the competing Anker 5000 mAh-Stick are close. The Anker Nano Power Bank 5000 wins in one-hour charging (67% to 62%) and loses in 15-minute charging (16% to 19%).
So, why is the Anker Nano Power Bank 5000 ranked so high on my list of best power banks? And it is slightly lighter than the Anker PowerCore 5000.
Anker PowerCore Essential 20000mAh
The Anker PowerCore II 20000 is the lighter power bank with a large capacity.
Amazon
Offer
Data updated 27 hours ago
- Ultra-High Cell Capacity: The massive 20,000mAh cell capacity provides more than 5 charges for iPhone XS, almost 5 full charges for Samsung Galaxy S10, more than 4 charges for iPhone 11, and over 2 and a half charges for iPad mini 5.
- Advanced Charging Technology: Anker's exclusive PowerIQ and VoltageBoost technology combine to deliver an optimized charge to your devices, while the trickle-charging mode is the best way to charge low-power accessories.
- Simultaneous Charging: Twin USB ports allow you to charge two devices at the same time. The USB-C port cannot charge other devices.
- Versatile Recharging: With both a USB-C and Micro USB input port, you have more options over how you recharge. Recharging PowerCore with a 10W charger will take approximately 10.5 hours, while recharging with a 5W charger will take approximately 20 hours.
- What You Get: Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K), Micro USB cable (to charge the power bank), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service. (USB-C cable, Lightning cable, and wall charger not included)
$22.99
List Price: $42.97
Buy directly in the Anker shop here.
The best large yet portable power bank for most people is the Anker PowerCore II power bank with 20000 mAh.
The all-metal casing (suitable for outdoor use!) of the PowerCore II is sturdy and features two high-power USB-A ports: one provides up to 2.4 A (12 W), the other up to 3.6 A (18 W).
The power bank has a micro-USB charging port, and a button with a circular LED array indicates how much charge the device still has. I particularly like this, as I don't like to guess how much juice my power bank has left.
Although the Anker PowerCore Essential 20000mAh power bank has a metal casing, it is not waterproof - but a cheap waterproof bag or plastic container will fix that and add less than a gram to the weight.
Here are the facts about the power bank:
- Capacity: 20000 mAh
- Outputs: 2x USB-A
- Inputs: 1x USB-C, 1x micro-USB
- Weight: 342.5 grams
- Dimensions: 15.8 x 7.4 x 1.9 cm
Advantages
Tons of power
USB-C input
18-month warranty
Disadvantages
Charging could be faster
The 20,000mAh power bank from Anker is a few grams lighter than comparable power banks, but the charging results consistently fall 3 to 4% below. My iPhone 12 could be charged a total of 4.5 times (from 0 to 100% battery life).
Another plus point is the USB-C input, which allows the power bank to be charged faster. In addition, the Anker PowerCore Essential 20000mAh has two USB-A outputs. That means your friends or a second device can charge at the same time.
You can charge the power bank either via USB-C or micro-USB - but you'll be much faster with USB-C. Charging the power bank with a 10W power adapter takes about 10 hours, and with a 5W power adapter about 20 hours.
For smaller devices (like headphones), press the button on the power bank for 3 seconds to activate the trickle-charging mode. This will slowly charge connected devices and extend the battery life.
Here are some more charging times (from the manufacturer):
- iPhone XS: more than 5 charges
- Galaxy S10: almost 5 charges
- iPhone 11: more than 4 charges
- iPad Mini 5: 2.2 charges
- Galaxy S20: 3.8 charges
INIU 22.5W 20000mAh Power Bank
The INIU 20W 20000 Power Bank is the best portable charger for USB-C charging.
Amazon
Offer
Data updated 2 hours ago
- [From INIU--the SAFE Fast Charge Pro] Experience the safest charging with over 38 million global users. At INIU, we use only the highest-grade materials, so we do have the confidence to provide an industry-leading 3-Year iNiu Care.
- [3X Ultra-Fast Charging] The newest 22.5W Power Delivery 3.0 USB C port, plus dual QC 4.0+ USB outputs, to revolutionize your experience of speed, especially bring iPhone 13 from 0 to 52% just in 25mins, 3X faster than regular 1A chargers.
- [7 Days of Safe Power] Enjoy a full week’s worth of charging capacity with the airline-approved 20000mAh power bank.
- [Even Wider Compatibility] Unlike the market’s most power banks incapable of charging low-current accessories, INIU PD3.0 Super portable charger can work with not only all the phones, tablets but your smaller devices like AirPods, Bluetooth headphones, fitness trackers, smartwatches, etc.
- [What You Get] INIU 20000mAh power bank*1, USB C cable*1, travel pouch *1, welcome guide*1, industry-leading 3-Year iNiu Care, plus lifetime technical support.
$26.98
List Price: $38.99
The 20-watt power bank from INIU is a bit heavy (the second heaviest on this list), but its dual-function USB-C port makes it a clear favorite for one of the best portable chargers for those who charge with the reversible port.
With the USB-C, you can charge both the device itself and other devices using the same USB-C cables, and you also have two additional USB-A ports for charging other devices.
Here are the facts about the power bank:
- Capacity: 20000mAh
- Outputs: 2x USB-A, 1x USB-C
- Inputs: 1x USB-C
- Weight: 365 grams
- Dimensions: 13.4 x 7.1 x 2.5 cm
Advantages
USB-C input and output
Fastest 1-hour charging
Full charge of the power bank in 6 hours
Disadvantages
Heavy power bank due to its power
Furthermore, the INIU 20000mAh Power Bank showed the best performance in the one-hour charging window and brought my empty iPhone 12 to 81% of its charge.
In 1 hour and 57 minutes, the iPhone was fully charged again. That is the second-best time compared to the Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 and is only one minute below.
The high capacity of 20000mAh also means that it charges my iPhone 12 approximately 4.7 times.
Here are some additional charging times (provided by the manufacturer):
- Samsung S20: 3.4 charges
- iPhone 13: 4.3 charges
- iPad mini 4: 2.7 charges
- AirPods Pro: 26.5 charges
EnergyCell 10000 Powerbank
The EnergyCell 10000 Powerbank is the best portable charger with high capacity in a small housing.
- 🔋Ultra-Compact 10000mAh Portable ChargerThe 10000mAh large capacity which can charge iPhone 12 for 2.5 times easy to hold and carry,ideal for put it in the bag or pocket meets your daily use.
- 🔋Dual USBWith a micro port, to charge your portable phone cahrger can be multiple and faster. 2 USB outputs allow you to charger 2 of your devices at the same time.
- 🔋Ultra-Slim Power BankThe 1.5 cm thickness makes it possible for the slim phone charger to fit comfortably in the pocket, backpack, and hand.
- 🔋Widely CompatibleSuitable for almost all devices that support USB port charging, whether Apple devices, Samsung devices, Android devices or Bluetooth devices.
- 🔋What You Getpower bank 10000mah ×1(adapter not included), micro usb cable ×1, user manual ×1 and our 24-months warm service.
no price can be determined (B09MCS5GNK)
View ProductThe EnergyCell 10000 Powerbank doesn't look like a 10,000mAh battery because it is small enough to be mistaken for a 5,000mAh power bank.
However, the power bank can provide about two full iPhone 12 charges, making it a surprisingly long-lasting power supply and one of the best power banks overall.
Here are the facts about the power bank:
- Capacity: 10000mAh
- Outputs: 1x USB-A
- Inputs: 1x Micro-USB
- Weight: 172 grams
- Dimensions: 10.3 x 5 x 2.5 cm
Advantages
Unobtrusive size for its capacity
Fast charging
Disadvantages
Only one USB-A output
Don't be discouraged by the size, as the values for the 15-minute and one-hour charging time (20% and 71%) are in a fantastic range.
The only slightly disappointing thing is that there is one USB-A port, but that is logical considering the small size.
Here are some more charging times (provided by the manufacturer):
- iPhone 8 / 7: 4 charges
- iPhone XS: more than 2 charges
- Galaxy S9: more than 2 charges
- Huawei P20: more than 2 charges
Anker PowerCore 5000
The Anker PowerCore 5000 takes its time to charge your phone. But it is small and lightweight.
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 50 million+ powered by America's leading USB charging brand.
- High Cell Capacity: Contains 5,000 mAh of power. Enough to provide over an entire replacement charge for iPhone X and Samsung Galaxy S9, or almost 2 charges for iPhone 8.
- Ultra-Compact: The portable charger’s remarkably small, tubular design slides easily next to your phone in any pocket or bag. Just 10cm tall and 3cm wide.
- What You Get: PowerCore 5000 portable charger, Micro-USB cable, welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service. USB-C cable and Lightning cable for iPhone and iPad sold separately.
$21.99
View ProductCompared to the higher-rated 5,000mAh charger on my list (the Anker Nano Power Bank 5000), the Anker PowerCore 5000 lags in terms of speed.
It only charged the iPhone 12 to 62% in the first hour of charging, which is the second-lowest value on the list.
Here are the facts about the power bank:
- Capacity: 5000mAh
- Outputs: 1x USB-A
- Inputs: 1x Micro-USB
- Weight: 136 grams
- Dimensions: 10.7 x 3.3 x 3.3 cm
Advantages
Small and easy to carry
Fast short-term charging
18-month warranty
Disadvantages
Slow long-term charging speeds
The best aspect of the PowerCore 5000 is that it reached 19% after 15 minutes, which is 7% higher than the value of the Miady Powerbank.
There is nothing wrong with this charger, but it is also not particularly impressive.
If the Anker PowerCore 5000 is sold at an affordable price, I would even use it regularly. But at the end of the day, it is at the bottom of my list for a reason.
Here are some more charging times (from the manufacturer):
- iPhone X: 1.3 charges
- Galaxy S9: 1.1 charges
- iPhone 8: 1.8 charges
Ekrist Powerbank 26800 mAh
The Ekrist Powerbank 26800 is a portable charger with high capacity.
Amazon
Offer
Data updated 2 hours ago
- New Design Portable Charger with 26800mAh Ultra-Huge Capacity, adopts our advanced intelligent controlling IC, higher quality, safer and more reliable, powerful and longer-lasting life after checked and continuous aging test;
- Universal Compatibility -- The power bank compatible with iPad, iwatch, Samsung Galaxy, most other Smart cell phones, Tablets, Bluetooth devices and more. It can charge 6 to 8 times to eliminate the anxiety of your battery exhaustion. Suit for travel, and other indoor outdoor activities;
- Dual USB Charging & Fast Recharge -- The Dual USB ports (2.1A+1A) to charge your two devices simultaneously, Fully recharges itself in 8~12 hours with 2.1A input charger, or 12-24 hours with 1A charger;
- 4 LED Lights & Certified Safe -- Four led lights show the current remaining power of the item(25%~50%~75%~100%), easily press the power button to turn it on or off. Built-in smart protection system, the USB battery pack ensures complete protection for you;
- 24 Months Support Services -- Ekrist 25800mAh portable battery charger, Micro USB cables, user manuals. Together 2 Years friendly, easy-to-reach support! Any question, please kindly contact us.
$23.69
List Price: $29.95
I don't like looking at no-name brands, but due to the many reviews on Amazon, I had to order the Ekrist Powerbank 26800 mAh. And unlike the INIU power banks, the Ekrist confirms my suspicion.
The main positive features of the power bank are that its 25,800mAh power supply was able to charge the iPhone 12 four times.
However, there are other larger power banks that deliver a lot of juice and that you should choose instead.
Here are the facts about the power bank:
- Capacity: 26800 mAh
- Outputs: 2x USB-A
- Inputs: 1x Micro-USB
- Weight: 350 grams
- Dimensions: 10.7 x 3.3 x 3.3 cm
Advantages
Tons of power
Fast charging
LED battery level indicator
Disadvantages
Heavier than most
No USB-C charging port
The disadvantages are easy to see. Foremost, there is no USB-C input or output. Additionally, the charging process was slow in tests, with insignificant results in the 15-minute and 1-hour windows (17% and 72%) and one of the longest times to charge an iPhone 12 from 0 to 100% (2 hours and 21 minutes).
Here are some more charging times (from the manufacturer):
- iPhone XR: 5.2 charges
- Galaxy S9: 4.6 charges
- iPhone 8: 6.5 charges
Miady 10000 mAh 2-Pack
Low price and low performance - that's what the Miady Powerbank 2-Pack stands for.
Amazon
Offer
Data updated 2 hours ago
- 2023 Upgraded USB-C OutputTwo 10000mAh battery packs not only for portable charging but also around the home. Allowing you to charge mobile devices without having to be tethered to a plug socket. Now USB-C charging is available, makes it easier to charge an iPhone or Android phones with USB-C cord. (Lightning cord is not included)
- Dual Output & InputEach also has 2 USB output ports that detect all the connected devices and efficiently distributes the current output up to 5V 2.4A. The USB C and Micro USB ports can fully refill the battery itself in 5 hrs at 5V 2.0A.
- Small & SlimIt feels incredibly compact for a 10000mAh power bank, weighing just 218g and only 14mm thick. Grippy design is easy to hold, easy to toss into a bag and incredibly portable.
- Reliable Li-polymer CellThanks to the Li-polymer battery pack, the charger is much safer than any Li-ion charger. Also, it's lighter and slimer that you can easily carry it around, even on airplanes.
- What You Get2 * Miady 10000mAh USB Portable Charger (White & Black); 2 * USB Cable (Lightning cord is not included); 1 * User Manual. We provide 24*7 friendly customer support and also back our products for 18 months.
$17.99
List Price: $21.99
The Miady Powerbank is popular for one reason only: you get two 10,000 mAh chargers for around €26. However, the savings are not worth what you lose in charging performance.
The Miady Powerbanks performed the worst in every category. The three-hour charging time for an iPhone 12 was 39 minutes longer than the second worst rating from Ekrist. And the values for the 15-minute and one-hour charging time (12% and 39%) are also low, with the 39% being particularly poor (the next highest value is 62% with the Anker PowerCore 5000 Powerbank).
Here are the facts about a powerbank:
- Capacity: 10000 mAh
- Outputs: 2x USB-A
- Inputs: 1x USB-C, 1x Micro-USB
- Weight: 350 grams
- Dimensions: 14 x 6.7 x 1.6 cm
Advantages
The combo price makes buying 2 batteries affordable
The USB-C and Micro-USB ports can fully charge the battery itself in 5 hours at 5V 2.0A
Disadvantages
Last place in all charging times
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Power Bank for You
Maybe you don't even know which power bank is right for you?
Let's now look at the facts you should clarify before you shop.
Find the right capacity of the power bank
Often you see a four- to five-digit number followed by the letters mAh - for example, 5000 mAh, 10000 mAh or 20000 mAh. That is your first important indicator of how well the charger is suited for you.
If you constantly charge your smartphone and other devices, you should opt for at least 10,000 mAh. For each additional device you charge, you should add at least 5,000 mAh to the desired capacity.
I use the Anker PowerCore II Powerbank with 20000 mAh when I'm on the go for several days. With it, I manage to survive a whole week and have to charge my smartphone about 4 to 5 times.
If you're looking for even more power, then the Anker Power 347 Powerbank with a 40,000 mAh battery might be the right choice.
- "Experience the Powerbank: Our power bank boasts an impressive 40,000mAh battery capacity, offering 8.8 charges for iPhone 13, 6.8 charges for Samsung S22 Ultra, and 2.3 charges for MacBook Air 2020. It's your reliable partner for extended trips and unexpected power outages.
- Swift Power Boost: Enjoy the convenience of rapid charging with our 30W USB-C capability. Revive your iPhone 13 to 53% in a mere 28 minutes. Bid farewell to long waiting times!
- Simultaneous Multi-Device Charging: With 2 USB-A and 2 USB-C ports, this power bank is your ultimate charging hub for all your essentials - laptop, phone, tablet, and earphones. Energize up to four devices concurrently!
- Universal Compatibility: Thanks to the Power Delivery charging technology, this power bank seamlessly integrates with a plethora of devices such as laptops, phones, tablets, and more. One power bank to cater to all your charging needs!
- What's in the Box: The package comes with the Anker 347 Power Bank (PowerCore 40K), a USB-A to USB-C cable, an 18-month worry-free warranty, and our committed customer service. Experience effortless charging with Anker!"
$69.99
View ProductYou just want to prevent your device from giving up late at night?
Then a power bank with less than 5,000 mAh is sufficient - provided that you remember to charge it regularly.
Find the right connections
If you only have older devices, then you probably don't need a USB-C port. In that case, buy the power bank that matches your price.
If you are the type of person who wants to charge their devices quickly, then you should look for a power bank that has "PD" in its name.
The latest power banks charge other devices the fastest and use the Power Delivery (PD) standard. Thanks to their USB-C ports, you can also charge these power banks with the same cables used for modern laptops.
But be careful, fast charging is not always useful. Read my tips below.
How I selected the power banks
My motto when it comes to selection: durability and capacity are more important than convenience.
In everyday life, most people use power banks to quickly charge a single device when they can't find a power outlet.
In an emergency, however, you do not know when you will have access to the power grid again. Or on a multi-day Bushcraft tour, you also need to rely on your power bank.
Therefore, you should use your power bank in a way that maximizes its storage capacity and long-term lifespan.
The optimal effect is currently achieved by power banks with a capacity of 10000 mAh to 20000 mAh. The interplay between energy density and weight is optimal in these devices.
The main goal is to pack as much energy as possible into a battery pack that is also suitable for longer hikes.
Tips for charging your devices with a power bank
Avoid fast charging
Earlier, I wrote about the fast charging through the "PD" technology. The technology is advantageous, but also has disadvantages.
Because you should avoid fast charging (usually via USB-C ports). Due to chemical peculiarities, the slower you discharge a power bank, the more of its nominal capacity you can get out of it.
If you are not in a hurry, you should avoid fast charging or high voltage ports that discharge the battery faster.
To extend the lifespan of your battery, you should, whenever possible, use the simple USB-A port with 5 V/2 A (or even lower).
Tip: The Anker PowerCore II Powerbank can charge smaller devices (like headphones) slowly. To achieve this, press the button on the power bank for 3 seconds to activate the maintenance charging mode. This way, connected devices will be charged slowly, and the battery will last longer.
Stay flexible with the connections
In an emergency, you want to be flexible to operate multiple types of devices with common cables (including devices/cables you may find later), such as rechargeable AA/AAA batteries, headlamps, phones, tablets, and radios.
In general, you are more flexible with a USB-A port on the power bank than with a USB-C port, as there are many A-to-B and A-to-C cables available, but USB-C cables to A and B are still rare.
Keep your power bank cool and avoid built-in solar panels
Batteries hate heat. The cooler they are, the longer they last and the more charge you can get out of them.
For example, this means that you should place the power bank in the shade when you connect the solar charger (check out my list of the best solar panels here).
Some power banks are equipped with a small solar panel, which is integrated on one side or can be unfolded. But I consider this to be pointless because practically speaking, you would have to leave a 20000mAh power bank in the sun for several days to fully charge it.
The combination of the products therefore does not really add any value. You are only risking that the battery overheats.
Leave the gimmicks behind
Avoid unnecessary extras and "survival" gimmicks. Keep things simple and focus on the main goal of saving energy.
That means you don't have a need for power bank features, such as the ability to function as a USB hub. If you need a USB hub, buy a separate one.
Similarly, it is with the "survival" features, such as adding a compass, a whistle, or a flashlight. For me, these gimmicks are worthless and a sign of an inferior product that tries to lure amateur buyers.
Waterproofing, dust protection, and a design suitable for outdoor use, however, are great.
Why should you take two batteries with you?
If you are choosing a Li-Ion power bank for emergencies or your trips, you should always take the maximum battery capacity that you can fit within your weight budget.
More energy storage capacity means:
- Longer lifespan, as you need fewer charge/discharge cycles for the same amount of energy from the device.
- More actual capacity, as a larger bank discharges (at the same power consumption) slower than a smaller one, and the slower you discharge your bank, the more charge you can get out of it.
- You can take in more charge when you have the opportunity, either from solar cells, a power outlet, or a larger battery.
- Higher chances of having power when you need it.
And now here is my recommendation: According to the current state of technology in 2021, it is best for outdoor enthusiasts to bring two 10,000mAh batteries instead of one huge 20,000mAh battery.
The reasons for this are as follows:
- "Two are one, and one is none." This motto illustrates how important it is to have a backup for essential equipment. Any kind of redundancy you can incorporate into your preparation (without compromising in other areas) will give you a significant advantage in any emergency.
- The weight does not increase significantly, as you are carrying the same number of batteries. You can carry one of them in a power bank or carry one in two separate smaller power banks, but you still have the same number with approximately the same total weight and charge.
- The power banks can have different connection formats and functions, giving you more options. You could choose a power bank with micro-USB and USB-A, and another one with USB-C and USB-A.
What does mAh mean for a power bank?
The unit milliampere-hour (mAh) is generally used to describe the capacity of a battery.
A widespread misconception is that you can simply divide the capacity of a battery by the capacity of a smartphone/tablet to determine how many cycles you can charge the smartphone/tablet with this power bank.
Conclusion about the best power bank
Which power bank should you buy now?
I can clearly recommend the brands INIU and Anker to you. These two manufacturers know how to build power banks and satisfy their customers.
If you are on the go for 2 to 3 days and need to charge your smartphone or another small device every day, a 10,000mAh power bank is sufficient. Choose the INIU Powerbank 10000 or the Anker PowerCore Slim 10000. Both differ in price by 10 €, which could be the decisive argument for you. Furthermore, check the connection options for your needs.
If you are on the go for 4 days or more, it's better to get yourself a 20,000mAh power bank. Here, I will come back to the two big players and I recommend the INIU 20W 20000 Powerbank or the Anker PowerCore II 20000. They also differ in price. I always bring the Anker PowerCore II 20000 with me on my travels.
If you just need some juice for your battery in the evening, then grab the Anker Nano Power Bank.
And now, what about you? Were you able to find a power bank that suits you?
Or are there models missing from the list here?
Author of the guide
Martin Gebhardt
Hey, I'm Martin. On my blog, you will learn the basics and numerous details about living in the wild. I think survival, bushcraft and the good life in nature are the keys to happiness. Find me here on Instagram or on YouTube. You can find more about my mission on the About Me page.
Since this is a gear guide, here ...
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Practical Experience: I have tested most of the products I recommend under extreme conditions myself.
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