Last updated: May 2026
A dead phone at the wrong moment can cost you a ride, a payment, or an important call. Portable chargers under $40 have gotten powerful enough to fully charge your phone 2–6 times, with some even fast-charging laptops. We tested the best options across capacity, speed, and portability.
Best overall — compact, Power Delivery, trusted brand
Anker's PowerCore 10000 PD is the sweet spot of capacity, speed, and portability. 10000mAh gives 2–3 phone charges, 18W Power Delivery fast-charges iPhones and most Androids, and it's small enough to slip in a pocket. Anker's MultiProtect safety system and 18-month warranty make it the most reliable pick.
Best value — same capacity for less money
The INIU matches the Anker's 10000mAh capacity at a significantly lower price. It charges at 15W via USB-C (slightly slower than PD) and has a built-in LED display showing exact remaining percentage. The slim design (0.5 inches thick) makes it one of the most pocket-friendly options available.
Best for sharing — two high-capacity banks for $26
Two 20000mAh power banks for the price of one Anker — that's 4–6 phone charges per bank, 8–12 total. Perfect for couples, roommates, or keeping one at home and one in your bag. They charge at standard speeds (12W) without PD, but the capacity per dollar is outstanding. Both include micro-USB and USB-C input.
Best for laptops — 65W PD charges MacBooks and more
This is the charger that changes what you expect from a "budget" power bank. 65W Power Delivery is enough to charge a MacBook Air, iPad Pro, or Steam Deck at near-wall-charger speeds. 20000mAh capacity gives 1–1.5 laptop charges or 4–6 phone charges. The digital display shows real-time wattage. Heavier than the 10000mAh options, but worth it if you charge laptops.
A 10000mAh power bank typically provides 2–3 full charges for an average smartphone (which has a 3000–4000mAh battery). Actual output is about 65–70% of rated capacity due to voltage conversion and heat loss.
A 20000mAh power bank holds roughly double the charge of a 10000mAh one, giving 4–6 phone charges instead of 2–3. The trade-off is size and weight — 20000mAh banks are significantly heavier and may not fit in small pockets. For daily carry, 10000mAh is ideal. For travel or camping, go 20000mAh.
Many budget power banks under $40 support 18W–22.5W fast charging, which is enough for most Android phones. iPhones need 20W+ PD for fast charging — look for Power Delivery (PD) support specifically. Budget PD chargers like the Anker PowerCore 10000 PD deliver 18W.
Yes, power banks up to 100Wh (about 27000mAh at 3.7V) are allowed in carry-on luggage. You cannot check power banks. Most 10000–20000mAh banks are well within limits. Keep them in your carry-on bag and expect TSA to inspect them occasionally.