Portable phone chargers, or power banks, have become an essential gadget for techies, travelers and anyone living a digital, on-the-go lifestyle. With countless options available, how do you choose the right one for your needs?
Generally you‘ll want to consider the capacity (power), size/weight, charging speeds, durability, and number of ports. But Reddit can help refine your preferences further—various subreddits like r/onebag, r/Ultralight and r/CampingGear actively discuss real-world power bank usage and needs for travelers, hikers, gadget lovers, and other communities.
After digging through numerous recent threads, the Reddit hivemind has recommended their top choices to power up phones, tablets, cameras—whatever your portable devices may be. While not exhaustive, this list provides a great starting point to match your ideal power bank based on capacity, special features, price and use-cases.
Let‘s dive in and explore the best power banks as recommended by Reddit users themselves!
Reddit‘s Picks: 12 Best Power Banks
Here are the top power banks as suggested across various Reddit discussions, in no particular order. We will analyze the most notable options later.
| Power Bank | Capacity | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Anker PowerCore 20K PD | 20,000 mAh | High capacity, fast charging, durable |
| Nitecore NB20000 | 20,000 mAh | Rugged, waterproof |
| AUKEY Basix Mini 10K | 10,000 mAh | Ultra compact |
| Dizaul Solar Charger | 10,000 mAh | Solar-powered |
| Anker PowerCore 733 | 20,000 mAh | Multi-device charging |
| Nitecore NB10000 | 10,000 mAh | Lightweight |
| Alongza 10K Charger | 10,000 mAh | Budget pick |
| Intenso XS10000 | 10,000 mAh | Stylish design |
| Goal Zero Flip 20 | 5,200 mAh | Ultra compact, minimalist |
| UGREEN Mini 10K | 10,000 mAh | Fast charging |
| Silicon Power C20QC | 20,000 mAh | Versatile outputs |
| Poweradd Pilot X7 | 20,000 mAh | Helpful LED display |
As you can see, common capacity ranges from 10,000-20,000 mAh catering to most smartphone usage needs. Specialized options focus on portability, ruggedness, budget, eco-friendly features and more. Now let‘s highlight the best overall and some category favorites according to Reddit.
Best Overall: Anker PowerCore 20K PD
The Anker PowerCore 20K PD is the clear winner for best overall portable charger. With a massive 20,000 mAh battery, it provides almost a full week‘s worth of iPhone charges. Despite the big capacity, it maintains a portable form factor.
It supports advanced Power Delivery charging to quickly juice up flagship phones, tablets and even some laptops. The sturdy, well-built product also comes from Anker, one of the most reputable names in charging accessories.
As one Redditor on r/onebag puts it:
"I have the regular (non-PD version) of this battery and even after 100+ cycles it still holds about 90% of its rated capacity and runs my phone from empty to full twice. Anker makes solid products."
While it carries a moderate price tag, the PowerCore 20K PD gives you premium performance and long-lasting value. For most users seeking the peak balance of capacity, charging speed, portability and durability, it is undoubtedly the top power bank choice.
Best Rugged: Nitecore NB20000
For hikers, campers and outdoor activity enthusiasts, phone battery needs don‘t stop when off the grid. That‘s why the rugged Nitecore NB20000 rates so highly as an adventure-ready power bank.
It packs 20,000 mAh to keep phones and gadgets humming for days, with rainproof and shockproof protection certified to military drop-test standards. Its grippy carbon fiber frame stays warm in your hands unlike metal models. An integrated light helps illuminate nighttime setups.
One Reddit review from r/CampingGear says:
"I do a lot of winter camping and have had this power bank for over a year now. It‘s still kicking and works perfectly! I‘ll be buying Nitecore products from here on out."
So don‘t let rough, wet conditions leave you powerless—the Nitecore NB20000 has you covered on and off trail.
Best Compact: AUKEY Basix Mini 10K
Sometimes you want just enough extra juice for daily needs in the smallest possible package. Here the Aukey Basix Mini 10K shines, fitting 10,000 mAh into a form resembling a large pack of gum.
It may not have blazing charge speeds, but holds enough for 2 full charges of most modern phones. Small size does mean faster recharges for the power bank itself as well. Plus with a durable aluminum casing, it brings reliable Aukey quality in a petite yet mighty frame.
One redditor on r/onebag using this chose it specifically for reduced size and weight:
"Was using the Anker mentioned here most of last year but wanted to shed some weight/space for future trips. The AUKEY is about 3 oz lighter and takes up way less space."
For everyday carry, short trips or as an ultralight backup, you can‘t beat the impressively palm-sized Basix Mini 10K power bank.
Most Eco-Friendly: Dizaul Solar Charger
Going green is easier than ever with eco-conscious power banks like the Dizaul 10,000 mAh Solar Charger. Naturally some Reddit users want to minimize their environmental impact from battery usage.
This charger includes foldable solar panels to soak up sun when available and cut down on grid power demands. They generate about 1-2 full phone charges daily if sunlight holds. But the battery itself stores 10,000 mAh to keep devices running on cloudy days or overnight as well.
Reviewers on r/Ultralight using solar chargers praise their reliability:
"I used this exact one on a Colorado Trail thru hike in summer 2021 along with my 10k Anker. Worked perfectly."
While bulkier than traditional models, eco-friendly solar charging gives peace of mind to green users or serves as handy backup source when off-grid. For net-zero phone power needs pair it with the Dizaul solar bank.
Most Ports: Anker PowerCore 733
Modern devices means modern charging needs, with phones, tablets, e-readers, cameras all needing simulatenous power. Enter the Anker PowerCore 733, a 2-in-1 wall or portable charger with plenty of ports.
It packs in 1 USB-A and 2 USB-C ports, allowing 3 gadgets to charge at once with a shared 20,000 mAh capacity. That includes a 60W USB-C port for juicing a laptop in a pinch. The 733 ensures even large families or groups can stay powered on vacations and long trips.
Its versatility as a portable or AC-plug wall charger also appeals to Redditors, like this r/CampingGear reviewer:
"We use ours with a solar panel when car camping. Allows us to charge everything we need for cameras, iPads, etc without running the car."
If your band of devices needs simultaneous charging power even on the go, the Anker PowerHouse 733 has all your ports and then some.
Most Lightweight: Nitecore NB10000
When traveling light, every ounce counts. That‘s why the compact NiteCore NB10000 rates well for its trim weight and profile. At around 6 ounces, it shaves valuable pounds versus bulkier banks without sacrificing much capacity.
The 10,000 mAh is still enough to charge today‘s phones multiple times, with one redditor on r/Ultralight using this model reporting:
"I used the NB10000 and it was able to charge my phone ~4 times on a 5 day trip."
It also includes a USB-A and USB-C output. While charging could be quicker, the rugged build and water/dustproofing keeps it working reliably in harsh environments. Prioritizing lightweight gear on adventures? The NB10000 expertly balances packability, utility and resilience.
Specialized Picks
Beyond the overall best and category winners, the community suggests more great options targeting specific needs:
Budget Power Bank: Alongza 10,000 mAh
Cost matters when choosing electronics, and the Alongza 10K offers savings without excess compromise. At well under $30, it packs 10,000 mAh, a capable spec set and PowerIQ adaptive charging for affordable portable power.
Stylish Design: Intenso XS10000
Looking sleek while charging devices? The aptly named Intenso Powerbank XS10000 sports an ultra slim, premium aluminum case at just 0.6 inches thin. But the 10,000 mAh battery capacity stays strong. Style meets substance!
Ultra Compact: Goal Zero Flip 20
When you barely have room to spare, slip in the tiny Goal Zero Flip 20. Just 3.75 x 2.25 inches but able to provide full phone charges, it‘s perfect for minimalists in a pinch.
Fast Charging: UGREEN Mini 10K
In a rush? The UGREEN Mini cuts charging times with up to 18W PD and QC output. The 10,000 mAh capacity already allows 5+ full phone cycles. Speedy charging keeps on-the-go professionals powered on.
Versatile Outputs: Silicon Power C20QC
With legacy USB-A, USB-C PD, and QC ports all available, the Silicon Power C20QC handles anything. Modern phones, tablets, Bluetooth accessories and more can charge simultaneously.
Helpful Display: Poweradd Pilot X7
Easily check battery status via the stylish Pilot X7‘s circular LED display. It precisely shows remaining capacity without having to power on connected devices—very handy.
How to Choose Your Power Bank
While we‘ve covered 12 top-rated picks from Reddit threads, there are many great options catering to specific needs. Based on your priorities below, see which power bank checks off your must-haves:
Key Considerations:
- Capacity – More mAh gives more charges, but increases size. Choose based on average daily use.
- Size & Weight – Important if carrying during travel. Higher capacity means more weight.
- Charging Speed – Look for Power Delivery and Quick Charge support for faster charging. Not all devices may be compatible.
- Number of Ports – Multiple outputs allow for concurrent multi-device charging
- Durability – Rugged, waterproof designs better withstand adventure use vs. regular models. Mil-spec ratings quantify toughness.
- Price – More capacity or advanced features raises costs. But excellent budget models exist too.
- Brand Reputation – Well-known players like Anker, Aukey, Nitecore rate well for quality and support.
Determine your must-have priorities from the aspects above when selecting among the Reddit-recommended options.
Key Takeaways
There you have it – a comprehensive power bank guide stemming straight from Reddit suggestions. To recap the key lessons:
- Capacity, charging speed and size are key decision factors based on your daily usage needs.
- Anker 20K PD rated best overall for its exceptional balance of capacity, charging rates, size and value.
- Specialized picks suited models for: outdoor adventure, compact carry, eco-friendly use, multi device charging and minimalist sizes.
- Numerous budget options provided almost full functionality at lower prices.
- Updated 2023 recommendations covered latest power banks models and features.
With Reddit‘s first-hand expertise guiding you, find the ideal portable charger matching your lifestyle. Then relax and let the power banks keep your gear powered on wherever you roam!
