Laptop Power Banks: Top Picks for 2024

Capacity: 27,000 mAh, 99.9 Wh | Ports: One USB-C in/out, two USB-A out, and three wireless pads | Cable included: USB-C to USB-C and wall adapter | Charge time iPhone 15: 5 to 100% in 2h 56m (wireless), 5 – 100% in 2h 22m (wired) | Remaining charge after iPhone: ~ 81% | Charge time Galaxy S23 Ultra: 5 to 100% in 1h 20m | Remaining charge after S23 Ultra: ~ 77% | Charge time iPad Air: 5 to 100% in 1h 55m | Remaining charge after iPad: ~ 64% | Charge time MacBook Pro: 10% to 89% in 1h 18m

When it comes to traveling, the need for a reliable portable laptop charger is paramount. With the limitations of finding power sources in planes, trains, and buses, the Lion Energy’s Eclipse Mag battery pack, boasting a substantial 27,000 mAh capacity, is designed to provide power for days. Its three wireless charging pads simplify the charging process, allowing you to recharge a Qi-enabled smartphone, earbuds, and even an Apple Watch simultaneously, reducing cable clutter significantly.

While it is indeed possible to charge multiple devices at once, keep in mind that the increased energy drain can lead to faster depletion of the battery, resulting in longer charge times. Based on my experience, it performs best when used as a primary power source during your travels and can effortlessly transition into a multi-device wireless charger when you’re back in your hotel room. Remarkably, you can recharge the battery while using the wireless pads, making it an excellent choice for multi-device users on the go.

Weighing in at two pounds, it may not be classified as lightweight, but its design with angled corners and a slim profile gives it a more compact feel compared to other models in its category. Although it lacks a digital display, it has four LED indicators that provide a reasonably accurate estimate of remaining charge. One limitation to consider is that the wireless charging pad is exclusive to Apple Watches, meaning that other smartwatches may not be compatible. Additionally, the single USB-C port might be a drawback, as having an extra USB-C port would enhance its versatility for multiple device charging.

When compared to other battery packs with similar capacities, the price of $149 for the Eclipse Mag is quite reasonable. For those looking for a bit more, Anker’s 27,650 mAh Prime battery, paired with a charging base, is also an outstanding travel companion. This option features two USB-C and one USB-A ports, along with a display for monitoring remaining charge and output. The charging base adds two additional USB-C and one USB-A ports for charging multiple devices back at your hotel. However, at a price of $235 for the complete set, it does represent a more premium investment.

Capacity: 20,000 mAh, 74 Wh | Ports: Two USB-C in/out and two USB-A out | Cable: USB-C to USB-C | Charge time iPhone 15: 0 to 100% in 1h 54m | Remaining charge after iPhone: 73% | Charge time Galaxy S23 Ultra: 5 to 100% in 1h 11m | Remaining charge after S23 Ultra: 66% | Charge time iPad Air: 3 to 100% in 2h 13m | Remaining charge after iPad: 42% | Charge time MacBook Pro: 10% to 62% in 1h 6m

Before diving into the world of portable power banks, I had not encountered the brand Baseus. However, after exploring various products and reading numerous positive reviews, I decided to test a few of their offerings. The Baseus Blade stands out as a compact and flat power bank, weighing in at just over a pound. Its unique shape resembles a tablet rather than the conventional block form of most power banks, making it a breeze to slip into a backpack or laptop bag.

The charge indicator tends to underestimate the remaining battery life, which is a better option than overestimating. For instance, even when the Blade showed only one percent left, it managed to provide my laptop with a few additional percentage points before completely shutting down. With two USB-C and two USB-A ports, along with rubber feet on the bottom to prevent movement while plugging in, it offers a stable charging experience. Performance-wise, it is impressive, taking only a few extra minutes to charge compared to larger capacity batteries.

However, a trade-off exists with the 20,000 mAh capacity — it won’t deliver the same power as larger batteries. For instance, it charged my 16-inch MacBook Pro from 10 percent to 62 percent, which is about 20 percentage points lower than what higher-capacity chargers can achieve. Nonetheless, priced at just $100, it remains a fast and efficient portable charger with an appealing design and sufficient port options.

Capacity: 25,600 mAh, 95Wh | Ports: One USB-C in/out, one USB-C out, one USB-C in, two USB-A, one AC port, one solar input, and one wireless pad | Cable: USB-C to USB-C | Charge time iPhone 15: 0 to 100% in 1h 49m | Remaining charge after iPhone: 83% | Charge time Galaxy S23 Ultra: 5 to 100% in 1h 3m | Remaining charge after S23 Ultra: 77% | Charge time iPad Air: 4 to 100% in 2h 11m | Remaining charge after iPad: 62% | Charge time MacBook Pro: 6% to 72% in 1h 21m

While it comes with a hefty price tag of $300, Goal Zero’s Sherpa 100AC is a premium power bank that justifies its cost with high-quality features. It has a wireless charging pad, three USB-C ports (one designated for input only), alongside several USB-A ports, an AC outlet, and an 8mm port for pairing with a Goal Zero solar panel or 12V adapter cable for convenient recharging. Additionally, an internal fan helps manage heat during operation, ensuring optimal performance.

Known for its rugged outdoor power products, Goal Zero has designed the Sherpa for durability, making it an excellent choice for outdoor professionals and fieldwork. It is particularly useful for outdoor photo shoots, job-site tasks, or when you need a reliable energy source while working in nature.

The ability to recharge via a car’s 12V port or through solar panels adds valuable versatility, although additional equipment will be required. For instance, the car charger is an extra $40