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The Best Portable Charger

Last updated on March 15, 2024

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There’s no shortage of portable chargers available. In fact, once you start shopping, you’ll likely immediately be aware of the vast array of products out there. But although portable chargers may look alike, some even promising very similar specifications, there are notable differences from one product to the next.

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One of the biggest features to look at when shopping for a portable charger is how long it will take to charge your devices. This is especially important if you have a device with fast-charging capabilities since not all portable chargers support that. A device that can fully charge multiple items at once in a limited amount of time may be well worth paying extra or sacrificing other features, such as portability.

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Another feature that sets some newer chargers apart from others is the ability to charge more than just a smartphone or tablet. Some of these devices can charge a laptop or gaming console, making them useful if you’re regularly out and about with these items. You’ll also find some chargers can plug into your computer and act as a hub, charging multiple devices at once while you’re working.

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While all portable chargers are designed to tuck into backpacks and laptop bags, some are even more powerful. If it’s important to be able to slip your charger into a pocket or handbag, look for much smaller devices. Some are only slightly larger than a tube of lipstick, making them especially portable, but you may sacrifice power and charging capabilities for that convenience.

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While you’re waiting for your devices to charge, you may occasionally want to check in on status. Some chargers have indicator lights that show you exactly where you are in the process, giving you a general idea of the time you have left. However, if you’re only charging smartphones and laptops, you’ll likely be able to get this same information by looking at the device itself.

Our Picks For The Top Portable Chargers

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

Miady 10000mAh Slim Dual USB Portable Charger, 2-Pack

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Miady

Slim Dual USB Portable Charger, 2-Pack

Keep your devices charged on the go with this reliable portable charger. The set actually includes two units, each of which has two USB output ports, one USB C port and one micro USB port. The slim design of the chargers allows users to fit them in just about any pocket or pouch.

Overall Take

Available in Fun ColorsIn addition to black and white, you can also get this portable charger set in yellow and purple and red and blue.

 Runner Up

Anker PowerCore 13000 Lightweight High-Speed Portable Charger

Anker

PowerCore Lightweight High-Speed Portable Charger

This portable charger is light and super compact. It is great to travel with and perfect for in the car. The unit is small and offers lights that tell you how much power is left. You will find multiple connections iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, and iPads.

Overall Take

Lightweight DesignThis portable charger offers a speedy charge to all your electronics and will still have battery power left for your next charge.

 We Also Like

Baseus 30000mAh Emergency 3-Port Portable Charger

Baseus

Emergency 3-Port Portable Charger

If you're searching for a powerful portable charger that's also high speed, then this model is for you. In fact, it can charge your devices 2.5 times faster than a standard charger. It even allows for charging three devices at once!

Overall Take

Charges QuicklyWhether you're planning a trip or you simply want to be prepared in the event of a power outage, this portable charger is a must-have tool.

 Also Great

Crave Camping Universal Portable Charger

Crave

Camping Universal Portable Charger

Whether you're flying to a tropical island, fishing by the lake or taking a train to work, this portable charger will keep your devices powered up and ready to go. The unit features two USB-C and two USB-A ports that work with a variety of tablets, phones and laptops. You may also want to pick up this handy device and keep it with your emergency ge...

Overall Take

Up to 4 DevicesSince this portable charger weighs just 4 pounds, you can carry it in your purse, backpack or carry-on bag.

What to Look For

  • A good portable charger starts with its power. Portable chargers can range from 10,000 to 26,800 mAh.
  • The time it takes to charge is also a top consideration. Although this can vary depending on the capacity of each device you’re charging, some portable chargers have the ability to charge two or three devices at once at a lightning-fast speed.
  • Before you can charge other items, you’ll need to charge the portable charging device. You’ll want to evaluate your new portable charger on how quickly it charges up, depending on your needs.
  • One factor determining how quickly your portable charger can get results is whether or not it supports the new fast-charging capabilities built into many modern devices.
  • New charging technologies built into devices like laptops and gaming consoles make it easier to build portable chargers for them. Some portable chargers can not only charge your smartphone but can also capably charge the newer MacBooks that have Thunderbolt ports, as well as the Nintendo Switch.
  • If you’re concerned about portability, look closely at the weight and size of the devices you’re considering. Do you need a device that you can carry in your pocket, or is a slightly larger charge OK for your needs?
  • Some portable chargers have longer, slimmer profiles, similar in shape to a smartphone. The measure around 6 inches by 3 inches, meaning they’ll still easily slip into a laptop bag or purse, but they may not be quite as easy to carry around all day with you.
  • Portability comes at a cost, however.  Smaller chargers can typically only charge one device at a time. Larger chargers can charge up to three devices at once.

More to Explore

USB-C is poised to revolutionize the way devices are charged. Instead of having multiple ports on a device for all the different cables you need, with a USB-C, you can use the same port as both an input and an output. This can be seen on newer equipment like MacBooks. You can either plug your power cord or your USB charging cord into any of the ports provided, aside from the headphone jack, but even that is changing. Some phones replace the headphone jack with a USB-C port, although you’ll still find the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack on laptops. The goal with USB-C is not only to streamline the ports that devices need to have but also to provide a single standard that will make life easier for everyone.

More to explore