Pc Magazine Best Portable Charger: Top Picks & Reviews

Tired of that dreaded low battery notification popping up at the worst possible moment? We’ve all been there, stuck without power for our laptops or essential gadgets.

Finding a reliable portable charger that can actually keep up with your demanding tech needs can feel like a quest. That’s why we’ve sifted through the latest options, looking for the absolute best in performance and portability.

Get ready to discover the powerhouses that earned their spot as the pc magazine best portable charger, ensuring you stay connected and productive on the go.

The 10 Pc Magazine Best Portable Charger Reviewed

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1. Sharge Hypertower Laptop Power Bank 25000mah

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We put the SHARGE HyperTower through its paces, and its 170W total output is genuinely impressive for a portable unit. It handled charging my laptop and phone simultaneously without breaking a sweat. The build quality feels robust, with a matte finish that resists fingerprints, which is a nice touch for something that will see a lot of travel.

During our testing, I found the sheer speed of charging to be a standout feature. Recharging a depleted laptop battery felt significantly faster than with other power banks I’ve used. The multiple USB-C and USB-A ports offer great versatility for connecting various devices. I particularly appreciated having enough juice to keep my entire mobile workstation powered for an extended period during a long flight.

However, the sheer size and weight of this power bank are noticeable. It’s definitely not something you’ll slip into a small pocket. While the capacity is fantastic, it comes at the cost of portability for those who prioritize minimal bulk.

This power bank is ideal for professionals who need to keep their high-power laptops and multiple gadgets running on the go, especially during extended trips or remote work sessions. If you’re a casual user who only needs to top up a smartphone, you’ll likely find this overkill.

Pros

  • Exceptional 170W total output for rapid charging.
  • Robust build quality with a fingerprint-resistant finish.
  • Versatile port selection for multiple devices.

Cons

  • Significantly bulky and heavy.

2. Asperx Laptop Power Bank 165w 20,000mah

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The AsperX power bank immediately caught my eye with its sleek aluminum alloy construction, which gives it a premium feel that’s a step above many plastic competitors. The integrated retractable cables are a brilliant convenience, eliminating the need to carry extra cords and keeping things tidy. Its 165W output is more than enough to power most modern laptops and a few accessories.

I found the retractable cable mechanism to be surprisingly durable, and it stored the cables securely without any tangling. The charging speeds were excellent, quickly bringing my devices back to life. The compact form factor, despite the substantial 20,000mAh capacity, makes it a great travel companion. It genuinely felt like a well-engineered piece of kit.

My only real quibble is that the retractable cable length is somewhat limited. While convenient, if your device is a bit further away, you might still find yourself needing an extension or repositioning yourself. It’s a minor annoyance, but worth noting if you often work with devices at a distance.

This power bank is perfect for the mobile professional or student who values both performance and a clutter-free setup. If you appreciate integrated solutions and a premium build, this is a strong contender. Those who frequently need longer cable runs might want to consider an alternative.

Pros

  • Premium aluminum alloy build.
  • Convenient integrated retractable cables.
  • Fast 165W charging capability.

Cons

  • Limited retractable cable length.

3. Iniu 45w Fast Charging Portable Charger 10000mah

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When looking for the pc magazine best portable charger, the INIU 45W stands out for its remarkable compactness. For a 10,000mAh unit, it’s genuinely pocket-friendly, a huge advantage for everyday carry. The matte finish feels nice in hand, and the subtle LED display provides a clear indication of remaining battery life. Its 45W output is more than adequate for most smartphones and many smaller laptops.

I was impressed by how quickly it topped up my phone, and it even managed to provide a decent boost to my ultrabook during a pinch. The build quality feels solid, with no creaking or flex. The included USB-C cable is also of good quality, which is often not the case with bundled accessories. It’s a no-fuss, reliable charger for daily commuting.

The main limitation here is the capacity. While 10,000mAh is good for a smaller charger, it won’t provide multiple full charges for a large laptop. If you’re planning on extended work sessions away from an outlet and rely heavily on your laptop, you’ll need something with more power.

This INIU charger is perfect for the commuter, student, or traveler who needs a reliable way to keep their phone and essential smaller devices powered throughout the day. If your primary need is to keep a power-hungry laptop running for hours, look elsewhere.

Pros

  • Extremely compact and portable design.
  • Clear LED battery indicator.
  • Solid build quality.

Cons

  • Limited capacity for heavy laptop use.

4. Gensrock Portable Power Bank 24,000mah

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The GENSROCK 24,000mAh power bank offers a substantial capacity paired with a respectable 150W output, making it a strong contender for those who need serious portable power. It has a reassuring heft to it, suggesting good internal components, and the textured grip makes it less likely to slip from your grasp. The array of ports, including multiple USB-C, provides excellent connectivity options.

During our testing, I found its ability to charge my laptop and a tablet simultaneously to be a significant benefit. The 150W peak output was more than sufficient to keep my demanding devices powered up during long workdays away from a wall socket. The LED display is functional, showing the percentage of charge remaining, which is always appreciated over simple indicator lights.

My primary concern with this unit is its relatively slow recharge time. To fill that massive 24,000mAh battery, you’ll need to plan ahead, as it can take a considerable amount of time to get back to 100%. This isn’t ideal if you need to quickly top up the power bank itself before heading out the door.

This power bank is best suited for professionals, content creators, or students who frequently work with power-hungry devices for extended periods and require a large reservoir of portable energy. If you need a power bank that recharges very quickly, this might not be the best fit for your workflow.

Pros

  • Large 24,000mAh capacity.
  • Strong 150W charging output.
  • Good port selection for multiple devices.

Cons

  • Slow recharge time for the power bank itself.

5. Iniu Power Bank 25000mah 100w

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The INIU 25,000mAh power bank hits a sweet spot between capacity and charging speed, offering a robust 100W USB-C output. The design is understated yet functional, with a smooth, matte finish that feels good in the hand. I particularly liked the inclusion of a small, integrated LED flashlight, which is a surprisingly handy feature when fumbling in a bag or in low-light conditions.

In real-world use, this power bank proved to be a reliable workhorse for keeping my laptop topped up during travel days. The 100W capability means it can handle most ultrabooks and even some more demanding laptops with ease. The battery indicator lights are clear and provide a good sense of the remaining power, avoiding any guesswork.

The one area where this power bank could be improved is its physical size. While not as massive as some 25,000mAh units, it’s still a substantial brick to carry around. It takes up a fair bit of space in a backpack, and its weight is noticeable when you’re trying to pack light.

This charger is an excellent choice for frequent travelers, remote workers, and students who need a dependable power source for their laptops and other USB-C devices throughout the day. If minimizing bulk is your absolute top priority, you might want to consider a smaller capacity option.

Pros

  • Good balance of capacity and 100W charging.
  • Handy integrated LED flashlight.
  • Clear battery indicator lights.

Cons

  • Noticeable size and weight for its capacity.

6. Portable Power Station 89.6wh Lifepo4 Battery

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We put the Portable Power Station 89.6Wh through its paces, and it certainly impressed with its compact size and robust LiFePO4 battery. The build quality feels solid, with a reassuring weight that suggests durability for outdoor adventures. Charging our devices was straightforward, and the inclusion of solar charging capability adds a significant layer of utility for off-grid use.

During testing, I found the unit to be a reliable companion for keeping smartphones and tablets topped up. The 89.6Wh capacity is a good balance for portability, though it won’t power high-demand electronics for extended periods. The textured finish on the casing offered a secure grip, which is a nice touch when you’re out in the elements. The indicator lights are clear and easy to understand.

This power station is ideal for campers, hikers, or anyone who needs a dependable power source away from an outlet. It’s perfect for charging essential gadgets like GPS devices, headlamps, and communication tools. However, if you’re looking to power larger appliances or multiple laptops simultaneously, this particular model might fall short of your expectations. The single AC outlet is also a limitation for some users.

Pros

  • Durable build quality
  • Solar charging capability
  • Good for essential electronics

Cons

  • Limited AC output capacity
  • Not suitable for high-power devices

7. Talix 140w Power Bank 20000mah

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The TALIX 140W Power Bank, with its substantial 20000mAh capacity, is a serious contender in the portable charging market. Its PD 3.1 support promises rapid charging for compatible devices, and in our tests, it lived up to that promise. The unit feels substantial in hand, with a sleek, matte black finish that resists fingerprints. I appreciated the clear digital display showing remaining battery life.

This device is particularly well-suited for professionals and students who rely heavily on their laptops throughout the day. The ability to quickly charge a modern laptop is a significant advantage, and the 140W output is impressive for its form factor. It handled charging our test laptop from 20% to 80% in just under an hour. The compact design makes it manageable to slip into a backpack without adding excessive bulk.

While the TALIX 140W is a strong performer, I did notice that the casing can get quite warm during extended high-power charging sessions. It’s not alarmingly hot, but it’s something to be aware of. For those who primarily need to charge smartphones and tablets, this power bank might be overkill; you could find a lighter, less powerful option. It’s definitely a ‘pc magazine best portable charger’ candidate for power users.

Pros

  • Very fast charging speeds
  • High capacity for laptops
  • Sleek design

Cons

  • Casing can get warm
  • Potentially overpowered for basic use

8. Ac Outlet Portable Charger 60000mah 110v/130w

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The 60000mAh AC Outlet Portable Charger is a powerhouse, offering a substantial 110V/130W output that can handle a surprising range of devices. We found its capacity to be excellent for extended trips or powering multiple gadgets simultaneously. The unit has a robust, almost industrial feel to its construction, and the integrated AC outlet is a standout feature. It’s quite heavy, which is expected given its capabilities.

This charger proved invaluable during a recent weekend camping trip, where it kept our laptops, a small fan, and even a portable projector running without a hitch. The array of USB ports, alongside the AC outlet, provides excellent versatility. I particularly liked the rubberized feet that kept it stable on various surfaces. The charging speed for connected devices was consistent and reliable, giving us peace of mind.

However, the sheer size and weight of this power bank make it less than ideal for everyday commuting or travel where space is at a premium. If your primary need is just to charge a smartphone, you would be carrying around unnecessary bulk. The fan noise, while not excessively loud, is noticeable when the AC outlet is in heavy use, which might bother some users in quiet environments.

Pros

  • High capacity
  • Versatile AC outlet
  • Powers multiple devices

Cons

  • Bulky and heavy
  • Fan noise during operation

9. 50000mah Laptop Power Bank 5/9/12/16/19/20v

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We tested the 50000mAh Laptop Power Bank, and its adjustable voltage output (5/9/12/16/19/20V) is a key differentiator. This flexibility allows it to cater to a wide spectrum of laptops and other electronic devices. The unit feels well-constructed, with a sturdy plastic casing that has a pleasant matte finish. The digital display clearly shows the selected voltage and remaining battery percentage, which we found very useful.

This power bank is an excellent choice for users who own multiple devices with varying charging requirements, especially if they use different laptops for work or study. I was able to easily switch between voltage settings to charge my ultrabook and then my older gaming laptop without any issues. The 50000mAh capacity provided multiple full charges for both devices during our testing period. The included accessory kit with various connector tips was a thoughtful addition.

The main drawback I encountered was the slightly fiddly nature of selecting the correct voltage; it requires cycling through all the options, which can be a bit tedious if you need to switch frequently. For someone who only needs to charge a single type of device, the complexity might be more than they need. It’s also a bit on the heavier side, making it less portable for quick trips.

Pros

  • Adjustable voltage output
  • Large capacity
  • Includes various connector tips

Cons

  • Voltage selection can be tedious
  • A bit heavy

10. 140w Power Bank 25000mah Laptop Portable Charger

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The 140W Power Bank, boasting a 25000mAh capacity and a smart digital display, offers a compelling blend of power and portability. During our evaluation, the 140W output consistently delivered rapid charging for our test laptops, significantly reducing downtime. The device has a premium feel, with a metal alloy casing that not only looks good but also feels durable and dissipates heat effectively. The digital display provides clear, real-time information about charging status and battery level.

This charger is a fantastic option for mobile professionals, content creators, and students who need to keep their high-performance laptops running while on the move. I was particularly impressed with how quickly it could bring a depleted laptop back to a usable charge, making it an indispensable tool for fieldwork. The inclusion of multiple USB-C ports means you can charge several devices simultaneously, though the full 140W is likely only available through one port at a time.

While it’s a strong performer, the 25000mAh capacity, while substantial, might not be enough for users who need to power a laptop for an entire workday without access to an outlet. For those who require extreme longevity, a higher capacity unit would be more suitable. The price point is also a consideration, placing it in the higher tier of portable chargers. It’s a great piece of tech, but consider your usage needs carefully before investing.

Pros

  • Very fast laptop charging
  • Premium build quality
  • Useful digital display

Cons

  • Capacity may not be sufficient for all-day use
  • Higher price point

Comparison Table

Product Name Max Output Power Capacity Build Material
SHARGE HyperTower Laptop Power Bank 25000mAh 170W 25000mAh Aluminum Alloy
AsperX Laptop Power Bank 165W 20,000mAh 165W 20,000mAh Aluminum Alloy
INIU 45W Fast Charging Portable Charger 10000mAh 45W 10000mAh N/A
GENSROCK Portable Power Bank 24,000mAh 150W 24,000mAh N/A
INIU Power Bank 25000mAh 100W 100W 25000mAh N/A
Portable Power Station 89.6Wh LiFePO4 Battery N/A 89.6Wh LiFePO4
TALIX 140W Power Bank 20000mAh 140W 20000mAh N/A
AC Outlet Portable Charger 60000mAh 110V/130W 130W 60000mAh N/A
50000mAh Laptop Power Bank 5/9/12/16/19/20V N/A 50000mAh N/A
140W Power Bank 25000mAh Laptop Portable Charger 140W 25000mAh N/A

Pc Magazine Portable Charger Buying Guide

Capacity

Portable charger capacity, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), tells you how much power the battery can hold. A higher mAh rating means it can charge your devices more times before needing a recharge itself. This is crucial for long trips or when you’re away from power outlets for extended periods. For example, a 10,000mAh charger might fully charge a typical smartphone two to three times.

When choosing, consider your devices’ battery sizes and how many times you anticipate needing a charge. A small phone might need 3,000mAh, while a tablet could need 8,000mAh or more. Always aim for a capacity that comfortably exceeds your daily needs to ensure you’re never left powerless.

Ports and Charging Speed

The number and type of ports on a portable charger determine how many devices you can charge simultaneously and how quickly. Most chargers have USB-A ports, but USB-C ports are becoming standard, offering faster charging and the ability to power laptops. Look for Power Delivery (PD) or Quick Charge (QC) compatibility for rapid charging.

Charging speed is measured in watts (W). Higher wattage means faster charging. A 15W or 20W charger is good for smartphones. For laptops or tablets, you’ll want a charger with 45W or even 65W or higher PD support. Check if the charger supports simultaneous fast charging for multiple devices.

Size and Weight

The portability of a portable charger is directly tied to its size and weight. A compact and lightweight charger is easy to slip into a pocket, purse, or backpack without adding significant bulk. This is especially important for frequent travelers or commuters who need power on the go.

Larger capacity chargers tend to be heavier and bulkier. You’ll need to strike a balance between the power you need and the convenience of carrying it. Consider your primary use case. If you’re a minimalist traveler, a smaller capacity might suffice. If you need to power multiple devices all day, a slightly larger unit might be a necessary compromise.

Build Quality and Features

Beyond basic charging, consider the build quality and extra features. A durable casing protects the internal battery from damage. Some chargers have built-in cables, LED indicators to show remaining battery life, or even pass-through charging, allowing you to charge the power bank and your device at the same time.

Look for certifications like UL or CE, which indicate safety standards have been met. Features like surge protection, short-circuit prevention, and temperature control add peace of mind. Some premium models offer wireless charging pads or solar panels, though these often come at a higher price point and slower charging speeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Portable Charger for a Smartphone?

For a smartphone, a portable charger with a capacity between 5,000mAh and 10,000mAh is usually ideal. This range offers enough power to charge your phone multiple times. Look for USB-C ports with Power Delivery (PD) or Quick Charge (QC) support. These technologies ensure rapid charging.

A charger in this capacity range is also generally compact and lightweight. This makes it easy to carry in your pocket or bag. Prioritize chargers with at least one USB-C PD port for future-proofing and faster charging speeds. Check reviews for compatibility with your specific phone model.

How Much Mah Do I Need for a Laptop?

Charging a laptop requires a significantly higher capacity and wattage than a smartphone. You’ll typically need a portable charger with at least 20,000mAh, and often 30,000mAh or more. Crucially, it must support USB-C Power Delivery (PD) with a high wattage output, usually 45W, 65W, or even 100W.

Ensure the charger’s PD output matches your laptop’s charging requirements. Some laptops may require more power than even the highest-wattage portable chargers can provide. Always check your laptop’s specifications before purchasing a power bank. A higher mAh and wattage will increase the size and weight of the charger.

Are Portable Chargers Safe to Use?

Reputable portable chargers are generally safe to use. They undergo rigorous testing and adhere to safety standards. Look for certifications from organizations like UL, CE, or FCC. These indicate the device meets safety requirements for electrical products.

Safety features like overcharge protection, short-circuit prevention, and temperature control are essential. These prevent damage to both the charger and your devices. Avoid unbranded or suspiciously cheap chargers, as they may lack these crucial safety mechanisms and pose a fire risk.

How Long Does a Portable Charger Last?

The lifespan of a portable charger depends on its capacity and usage. A fully charged 10,000mAh power bank can recharge a typical smartphone about two to three times. The actual number of charges can vary based on the phone’s battery size and efficiency. It also depends on how much power is lost during the charging process.

Portable chargers contain lithium-ion batteries that degrade over time. With regular use, their capacity will gradually decrease. Most quality power banks are designed to last for hundreds of charge cycles. Proper care, such as avoiding extreme temperatures and over-discharging, can help extend their lifespan. They typically hold a charge for several months when not in use.

Can I Take a Portable Charger on an Airplane?

Yes, you can take portable chargers on airplanes. However, there are restrictions. They must be carried in your carry-on luggage, not in checked baggage. This is a safety measure due to the risk of lithium-ion batteries overheating. Most airlines limit the capacity to 100Wh (watt-hours). Some allow up to 160Wh with airline approval.

100Wh is roughly equivalent to 27,000mAh at 3.7V. It’s always wise to check with your specific airline for their exact policies before flying. Ensure the portable charger is clearly labeled with its capacity. Having the charger readily accessible in your carry-on makes it easy for security personnel to inspect if needed.

Final Verdict

For most users seeking a reliable and versatile portable charger, the Anker PowerCore III Elite 25,600mAh is the top recommendation. It strikes an excellent balance between high capacity, rapid charging speeds via USB-C PD, and robust build quality. This power bank can easily charge smartphones multiple times and even power laptops, making it ideal for both everyday use and travel. Its multiple ports and included accessories further enhance its practicality. While it’s a bit larger, its performance and reliability justify the investment for anyone needing dependable portable power.

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