Best Portable Chargers and Power Banks for Phones and Laptops

Some portable chargers can power your devices faster than others. This is largely determined by the kinds of ports the charger is equipped with and their max wattage output.  

Take a look at the port options on different models when shopping. Portable chargers are usually outfitted with USB-C ports and USB-A ports, which both can be rated for different wattage outputs. USB PD, (or USB Power Delivery), for example, is a type of fast-charging via USB-C that can deliver up to 240 watts. Some more powerful portable chargers also have 100-watt AC outputs, allowing you to insert a standard two- or three-pronged plug.

For speedy laptop charging, you likely want a portable charger capable of outputting 100 watts of power or more, while around 18 watts or more could provide fast charging to a phone.

Most models in our ratings get excellent scores for charging speed, but a few power banks have more middling scores. Of course, once the portable charger is drained, you need to recharge it at an outlet or a portable power station. Most models in our ratings recharge quickly, but there were some underperformers (along with a few particularly good models). Unsurprisingly, solar portable chargers, like the BioLite Foldable 10 watt Solar panel, take far longer to recharge if you’re only relying on sunlight.