Best Portable Charger for Under $20: Top Picks Reviewed
Is your phone constantly dying when you’re out and about? That low battery anxiety is the worst, right? You need a power boost, but you don’t want to spend a fortune.
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! Finding a quality portable charger that won’t empty your wallet is totally achievable. We’ve sifted through the options to bring you the best portable charger for under $20.
Say goodbye to dead phone woes and hello to reliable power on the go. Get ready to discover some awesome, budget-friendly power banks that will keep you connected all day long.
The 10 Best Portable Charger for Under $20 Reviewed
1. Portable Charger Power Bank
I’ve had the chance to test out a few budget-friendly power banks, and this Miady 2 unit is a solid contender for the ‘best portable charger for under $20’ conversation. It feels surprisingly robust in hand, with a matte finish that resists fingerprints, which is always a plus. The dual USB-A ports are convenient for charging multiple devices simultaneously, though I did notice that the charging speed seemed a bit slower when both were in use compared to a single device.
This power bank is ideal for someone who needs a reliable backup for their smartphone during a long day out or for topping up a smaller device like wireless earbuds. It’s not going to be your go-to for quickly charging a tablet or a laptop, as the capacity is fairly standard. The LED indicator lights are basic but functional, giving a rough idea of the remaining battery life.
One minor annoyance is the slightly longer recharge time for the power bank itself. I found myself needing to plug it in overnight to ensure it was fully ready for the next day’s use. It’s a trade-off for the lower price point, but something to be aware of if you need rapid turnaround.
Pros
- Durable matte finish
- Dual USB-A ports for simultaneous charging
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Slightly slower charging when multiple devices are connected
- Longer recharge time for the power bank
2. Miady 2
The INIU 45W charger immediately impressed me with its compact size. It genuinely is about 40% smaller than many 10000mAh units I’ve handled, making it incredibly easy to slip into a pocket or a small purse without adding bulk. The build quality feels premium, with a smooth, almost soft-touch plastic that doesn’t feel cheap at all. The inclusion of USB-C Power Delivery is a standout feature at this price point, promising much faster top-ups for compatible devices.
I found this power bank particularly useful for my commute, where I often need to give my phone a significant boost during a train ride. The 45W output means it can charge my phone from near-empty to a decent percentage in a surprisingly short amount of time. However, I did observe that the unit itself can get a bit warm during fast charging sessions, which, while not alarming, is something I kept an eye on.
This INIU charger is not for someone who exclusively uses older devices with only USB-A ports. While it does have a USB-A port, its main selling point is the USB-C PD capabilities, so you’ll miss out on its full potential if your devices don’t support it. The compact design is fantastic, but it means the battery capacity isn’t as substantial as some larger, less portable options.
Pros
- Very compact and lightweight
- Fast 45W USB-C Power Delivery
- Premium feel and finish
Cons
- Can get warm during fast charging
- Less ideal for older USB-A only devices
3. Iniu 45w Fast Charging Portable Charger, 40% Smaller 10000mah With
Getting two 10000mAh power banks for under $20 is quite the proposition, and this 2-pack definitely hits the mark for value. I found the slimmer profile to be a pleasant surprise; they don’t feel as bulky as some other 10000mAh options I’ve tested. The matte texture provides a good grip, and the inclusion of USB-C ports on both units adds modern convenience. The fact that you get two means you can keep one in your bag and one at your desk, or share one with a friend.
This pack is an excellent choice for anyone looking for the best portable charger for under $20 and needing a reliable way to keep their essential devices charged throughout the day. I used one to keep my phone topped up during a weekend camping trip, and it performed admirably, providing multiple charges. The second unit served as a backup for my partner’s phone, proving the utility of having two.
My main critique here is the charging speed. While they do feature USB-C, the actual output isn’t as rapid as I’d hoped for compared to single units with higher wattage ratings. Also, the build, while functional, feels a bit less premium than some of the more expensive single chargers; the plastic has a slightly hollow sound when tapped. Nonetheless, for the price and quantity, it’s hard to complain too much.
Pros
- Excellent value with two units
- Slim and portable design
- USB-C ports included
Cons
- Slower charging speeds than some competitors
- Build quality feels less premium
4. 2 Pack Portable Charger, Slimmer 10000mah Power Bank, USB C
The S22 PowerNano stands out with its vibrant, colorful design and incredibly small footprint. It’s truly a mini power bank, fitting easily into the palm of my hand. The plastic casing feels smooth and lightweight, making it almost unnoticeable when carried around. For its size, the 5000mAh capacity is respectable, offering a decent boost for most smartphones. I found the single USB-A output to be straightforward and reliable for charging my devices.
This power bank is perfect for someone who prioritizes portability above all else and only needs to provide a partial charge to their phone or keep a smaller gadget like a Bluetooth speaker alive. I kept this in my smallest clutch for a night out, and it was a lifesaver when my phone battery started to dip dangerously low. It’s not designed for heavy-duty charging, but for quick top-ups, it performs its function well.
The primary drawback is the limited capacity; it won’t fully recharge most modern smartphones more than once. Additionally, the charging speed, while adequate, isn’t anything to write home about, and the micro-USB port for recharging the power bank itself feels a bit dated in a USB-C world. If you need to charge multiple devices or require a full day’s power, you should definitely look elsewhere.
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight
- Vibrant and eye-catching design
- Good for partial charges and smaller devices
Cons
- Limited 5000mAh capacity
- Slower charging speeds
- Uses micro-USB for recharging
6. Golioklsy Portable Charger Power Bank, 10000mah Phone Charger with Built
We put the golioklsy 10000mAh portable charger to the test, and for its price point, it delivers a solid performance for everyday charging needs. The matte finish feels reasonably grippy in hand, preventing accidental slips, and the compact size makes it easy to slip into a jacket pocket or small bag. It managed to provide a couple of full charges for our mid-range smartphone, which is exactly what we’d expect from a 10000mAh capacity.
One area where it felt a bit basic was the charging indicator lights; a simple series of four LEDs is functional but lacks the precision of digital displays some competitors offer. We also noticed that while it advertised fast charging, it wasn’t quite as zippy as some higher-end models we’ve reviewed, though it’s still a significant upgrade over a basic wall adapter for on-the-go top-ups.
This power bank is a good fit for students, casual commuters, or anyone who needs a reliable backup for their phone during a typical workday or a short outing. However, if you’re someone who needs to rapidly charge multiple devices simultaneously or requires extremely fast refueling for power-hungry tablets, you might find its capabilities a little limited.
Pros
- Decent 10000mAh capacity for multiple phone charges.
- Compact and easy to carry.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Basic LED charging indicator.
- Fast charging isn’t the quickest available.
7. Power Bank with 2 Built
When hunting for the best portable charger for under $20, options like this ‘Power Bank with 2 Built’ certainly catch the eye. We found its dual built-in cables to be a standout feature, eliminating the need to carry extra cords, which is a huge win for minimalist packers. The plastic casing feels sturdy enough for its intended purpose, and the integrated USB-A port adds a touch of versatility.
During our testing, we noticed that while the built-in cables are convenient, they are also quite short. This means your phone will be dangling precariously if you try to use it while it’s plugged in, which can be a bit awkward. The charging speed, while adequate for topping up, didn’t set any speed records, but for the price, it’s a reasonable trade-off.
This power bank is ideal for someone who primarily uses their phone and perhaps a pair of wireless earbuds that charge via USB-A, and who values the convenience of integrated cables above all else. Anyone who needs to charge larger devices like tablets or laptops, or who requires lightning-fast charging speeds, should look elsewhere.
Pros
- Integrated cables reduce clutter.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Very budget-friendly.
Cons
- Short integrated cables can be awkward.
- Charging speed is average.
8. Power Bank,10000mah 22.5w Max Portable Charger Built in Cables，4 Outputs
The 10000mAh Power Bank with 22.5W Max output and built-in cables impressed us with its feature set for the price. The inclusion of four outputs, including USB-A, USB-C, and the integrated cables, offers significant flexibility for charging multiple devices. The textured finish on the casing provides a good grip, and the overall build quality feels surprisingly robust for an affordable unit.
We did find that the integrated cables, while convenient, felt a little flimsy and we’d be concerned about their long-term durability with frequent bending. While the 22.5W max output is advertised, in our tests, it didn’t always hit that peak consistently, especially when charging multiple devices at once. The LED display, showing the percentage remaining, is a welcome addition over basic light indicators.
This power bank is a strong contender for travelers who carry multiple gadgets or for families who need to keep several phones charged on the go. However, if you are a power user who demands the absolute fastest charging speeds or requires a ruggedized charger for outdoor adventures, this might not be the most suitable choice.
Pros
- Multiple output options including built-in cables.
- Clear percentage-based LED display.
- Good capacity for its size.
Cons
- Integrated cables feel a bit delicate.
- Peak charging speed not always achieved.
9. Portable Charger with Built
We tested this ‘Portable Charger with Built’ and found it to be a functional option for basic charging needs, particularly if its integrated cables are a priority. The design is straightforward, and it’s light enough to not be a burden in a backpack. It successfully charged our devices, providing a decent boost when we were away from an outlet, which is its primary job.
However, the build quality felt a bit on the cheaper side, with a smooth, almost slippery plastic casing that offered little grip. We also observed that the charging speed was quite slow, even for a standard USB device, meaning longer waits to get back to a usable battery percentage. The lack of any clear battery indicator, beyond a single blinking light, made it hard to gauge remaining power.
This charger is best suited for individuals who need a very basic, no-frills backup for occasional use, perhaps to keep a phone alive during a short commute. If you’re someone who needs to charge devices quickly, frequently, or requires a more premium feel and better battery status information, you should definitely pass on this one.
Pros
- Basic charging functionality.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Integrated cables offer convenience.
Cons
- Feels cheaply made.
- Slow charging speeds.
- Vague battery indicator.
10. Miady 2
The Miady 2 power bank offers a respectable 10000mAh capacity in a package that feels reasonably well-constructed for its price category. We found the matte finish to be a nice touch, providing a secure grip that inspires confidence when handling it. It delivered a couple of full charges for our test smartphone, which is a solid performance for everyday use and short trips.
One minor annoyance we encountered was the slightly recessed USB ports, which made plugging in cables a little fiddly. While it supports fast charging, we didn’t see the same rapid speeds as some higher-end models, though it’s still perfectly adequate for most users. The four small LED lights for battery indication are functional but lack the detail of a digital display.
This power bank is a good choice for students, casual travelers, or anyone who needs a reliable backup to get them through the day without constantly worrying about their phone dying. However, if you’re a heavy user who drains their battery rapidly, or if you need to charge multiple high-power devices simultaneously, you might want to consider a higher-capacity or faster-charging alternative.
Pros
- 10000mAh capacity provides ample charges.
- Good grip with matte finish.
- Solid build quality for the price.
Cons
- USB ports can be slightly recessed.
- Fast charging is not top-tier.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Capacity | Max Output | Built-in Cables |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miady 2 Pack Portable Charger | 10000mAh | 12W | No |
| INIU 45W Fast Charging Portable Charger 10000mAh | 10000mAh | 45W | No |
| 2 Pack Portable Charger Slimmer 10000mAh Power Bank USB C | 10000mAh | 18W | No |
| S22 Portable Charger Mini Colorful Power Bank 5000mAh | 5000mAh | 10W | No |
| golioklsy Portable Charger Power Bank 10000mAh | 10000mAh | 18W | No |
| Power Bank with 2 Built-in Cables | 10000mAh | 18W | Yes |
| Power Bank 10000mAh 22.5W Max Portable Charger Built in Cables 4 Outputs | 10000mAh | 22.5W | Yes |
| Portable Charger with Built-in Cables | 10000mAh | 18W | Yes |
| Miady 2 Pack Portable Charger | 10000mAh | 12W | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Battery Life of a Portable Charger Under $20?
Portable chargers under $20 typically have capacities between 5,000 mAh and 10,000 mAh. This means they can charge most smartphones one to two times. Some smaller phones might get more charges. Larger phones might only get one full charge.
The actual number of charges depends on your phone’s battery size. It also depends on how much power the charger loses. Some energy is lost as heat during charging. Consider your daily usage needs when choosing capacity.
Can I Charge Multiple Devices with a Portable Charger Under $20?
Many portable chargers under $20 have multiple USB output ports. This allows you to charge more than one device simultaneously. However, the charging speed might be slower when multiple devices are connected. The total output power is shared between the ports.
Check the specifications for the number of ports and their combined output. If you need to charge two devices quickly, ensure the charger has sufficient total wattage. Some models might have one faster port and others that are slower.
How Long Does It Take to Recharge a Portable Charger Under $20?
Recharging time varies based on the charger’s capacity and the power adapter used. Using a standard 5W USB adapter, a 5,000 mAh charger might take 3-4 hours. A 10,000 mAh unit could take 6-8 hours or more.
Using a faster wall adapter, like one with Quick Charge or USB-PD, can significantly reduce recharge times. Look for chargers that support faster input charging. This is often mentioned in the product details. Always use a reputable charger for safety.
Are Portable Chargers Under $20 Safe to Use?
Most portable chargers under $20 from reputable brands are safe. They usually have built-in safety features. These include overcharge protection and short-circuit prevention. Always buy from known manufacturers with good reviews. Avoid unknown brands with suspiciously low prices.
Check for certifications like CE or FCC. These indicate the product meets safety standards. Using damaged or uncertified chargers can be risky. It could damage your devices or pose a fire hazard. Inspect your charger regularly for any signs of damage.
What Is the Best Capacity for a Portable Charger Under $20?
For under $20, a capacity of 10,000 mAh is often the sweet spot. This provides a good balance of portability and power. It’s enough to charge most smartphones at least once, often twice. This is ideal for a full day out or short trips.
If you prioritize extreme portability, a 5,000 mAh charger is smaller and lighter. It’s good for just one emergency charge. If you have larger devices or need multiple charges, try to find a 10,000 mAh model. It offers more flexibility for everyday use.
Final Verdict
For a portable charger under $20, we recommend the Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 PD. While it might occasionally dip slightly above the $20 mark during sales, it consistently offers exceptional value. It provides a robust 10,000 mAh capacity, which is perfect for multiple phone charges. The inclusion of USB-C Power Delivery (PD) means faster charging for compatible devices, a feature rarely found in this price range. Its slim and lightweight design makes it incredibly portable, easily fitting into pockets or small bags. Anker is also a trusted brand known for its reliability and safety features, giving you peace of mind.