In our current technology-focused era, power banks and portable chargers have become vital accessories. Although a phone battery running out isn’t a catastrophe, it can certainly throw a wrench in your plans—be it during work, travels, or while keeping in touch with loved ones. Therefore, having a dependable power source readily available is crucial.

A portable charger frees you from the task of searching for an electrical outlet, allowing you to recharge your devices whenever and wherever you need to. It’s wise to keep one in your handbag, backpack, or even your pocket, just in case.

With a plethora of options out there—varying in brand, size, capacity, and cost—it can be challenging to select the perfect one. The right charger for you will rely on the devices you are charging, how frequently you require a recharge, and where you plan to use it. Fortunately, we’ve conducted the necessary research to assist you in finding the ultimate portable charger tailored to your needs.

Here’s everything you should know, along with our top recommendations for the best portable chargers and power banks for 2025.

How Do Portable Chargers Work?

Using a portable charger is straightforward. Simply carry it with you and plug in your device when the battery begins to deplete. For extra convenience, think about a wireless portable charger. These allow you to power up your device by merely placing it on the charger—cables not needed.

How Much Power Do Portable Chargers Provide?

The capacity of each charger is gauged in milliampere hours (mAh), which signifies how much power it can deliver. The greater the mAh, the more energy it contains. High-capacity chargers can offer up to three full charges for your phone—or even more—before they too need a recharge. More budget-friendly, lower-capacity models may only provide a single boost. Consider your daily usage and charging patterns before selecting a model.

What Devices Are Compatible with Portable Chargers?

Most portable chargers are built to be universal. As long as your device can connect via USB or another standard port, it should function correctly. While certain chargers are crafted for specific brands or technologies—like Apple’s MagSafe—most variations will work with a broad spectrum of smartphones, tablets, and additional devices.

What Types of USB Ports Do Portable Chargers Use?

Before making a purchase, check what types of USB ports the charger accommodates. USB standards are continuously advancing, and while USB-A used to be predominant, USB-C is now becoming more prevalent. Some devices also utilize Apple’s Lightning connector. If your charger and device have different ports, you can generally find an adapter or cable to make the connection.

What Is MagSafe Charging?

MagSafe is Apple’s magnetic charging technology, designed to align your device seamlessly for optimal charging. It’s identifiable by the circular magnet that positions your iPhone correctly. To utilize MagSafe, your device must be compatible and may require a MagSafe-compatible case. It’s an excellent choice for users with newer Apple gadgets like iPhones, AirPods, or Apple Watches.

What’s the Best Portable Charger?

We’ve explored the market to identify the most dependable, high-performing portable chargers available. Whether you seek a compact model for occasional use or a high-capacity power bank for frequent traveling, we have you covered.

Here are the top portable chargers and power banks to consider in 2025.