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Feb 19, 2025

The best iPhone power banks of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed | ZDNET

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Imagine this: a dead iPhone throwing a wrench in your entire day. It's happened to me more times than I'd like to admit, which is why I'm never without my trusty power bank -- it's all about staying one step ahead of problems.

Also: The best MagSafe accessories for your iPhone

I run the iPhone with the biggest battery you can get, and I still find that giving it a little mid-day top-up can mean the difference between cruising through the day or watching it fade to black before I make it get home for the evening.

I've tested hundreds of iPhone power banks, scrutinizing everything from their sleek designs and rapid charge times to their hefty recharge capacities, power outputs, port varieties, and safety features. This thorough analysis has allowed me to weed out the duds -- the low-quality units, the overpriced rip-offs, and the downright failures -- focusing exclusively on the cream of the crop. This lineup represents the pinnacle of performance, ensuring you get only the best from your purchase.

My top pick for the best overall iPhone power bank is the Sharge CarbonMag 5K, because I'd drawn to it's rugged simplicity. It's a battery encased in a tough, thin-and-light yet super stylish carbon fiber case that has kept my phone going during freezing cold nights and blazing hot days. Read on to learn more about my top picks and others.

Also: The best iPhone 15 cases

At a time when a lot of MagSafe wireless chargers want to become big and bulky, adding kickstands and cooling fans and lanyards, it's great to come across a wireless power bank that wants to do one thing -- keep my iPhone charged up.

And the Sharge CarbonMag 5K does that job exceptionally well. This simplistic design allows it to be thing and light. At 120 grams and 8.8 millimeters thin, this is something that feels like it blends in with the aesthetic of the iPhone once it's snapped onto the MagSafe ring.

Also: This power bank was an essential lifeline amidst the bustling streets of Marrakech

On the charging front, you have the option of using 15W wireless MagSafe for the iPhone and a 20W USB-C port for everything else. All you need for power on the move. There are tiny LEDs on the back of the power bank showing charge levels, charging status, and whether it is switched on, and there's a single button for switching the unit on.

Simple!

For charging at the end of the day, the CarbonMag 5K supports pass-through charging, so I could connect a charge cord to the power bank, leave the iPhone connected to it, and both would charge overnight, ready for another busy day.

Sharge CarbonMag 5K Wireless Charger Features: Capacity: 5,000mAh | Charging port: USB-C | Max output: 15W wireless, 20W wired

At a time when a lot of MagSafe wireless chargers want to become big and bulky, adding kickstands and cooling fans and lanyards, it's great to come across a wireless power bank that wants to do one thing -- keep my iPhone charged up.

And the Sharge CarbonMag 5K does that job exceptionally well. This simplistic design allows it to be thing and light. At 120 grams and 8.8 millimeters thin, this is something that feels like it blends in with the aesthetic of the iPhone once it's snapped onto the MagSafe ring.

Also: This power bank was an essential lifeline amidst the bustling streets of Marrakech

On the charging front, you have the option of using 15W wireless MagSafe for the iPhone and a 20W USB-C port for everything else. All you need for power on the move. There are tiny LEDs on the back of the power bank showing charge levels, charging status, and whether it is switched on, and there's a single button for switching the unit on.

Simple!

For charging at the end of the day, the CarbonMag 5K supports pass-through charging, so I could connect a charge cord to the power bank, leave the iPhone connected to it, and both would charge overnight, ready for another busy day.

Sharge CarbonMag 5K Wireless Charger Features: Capacity: 5,000mAh | Charging port: USB-C | Max output: 15W wireless, 20W wired

This Anker battery pack offers 6,600mAh of battery capacity, features a USB-C port that is used both as an input and output, and has a compact design. With a single magnetic click, this battery pack can be stored in your pocket or propped up using its sturdy magnet as a stand. Additionally, you don't have to worry about charging your phone and your battery pack separately, as you can charge both simultaneously when the pack is connected to a power source.

Leveraging Qi2 technology, the MagGo Power Bank securely snaps onto the back of compatible Android and Apple phones and packs a 6,600mAh battery capacity that can charge most phones at least once.

Also: Anker's new Qi2 MagGo Power Bank offers a bonus feature for iPhone users

This power bank also comes with a two-foot USB-C-to-USB-C cable, which is always handy to have. I like the clamshell design of this power bank, and it looks a lot like the Star Trek communicator from the days of old. It's a well-made, durable power bank, exactly what I'd expect from an Anker product.

Online reviews for this product are strong, although I feel that some buyers are confused about what Qi2 offers and expect it to be faster than a MagSafe charger (which it isn't).

Anker 622 MagSafe Wireless Charger Features: Capacity: 6,600mAh | Charging port: USB-C | Max output: 15W wireless, 20W wired

This Anker battery pack offers 6,600mAh of battery capacity, features a USB-C port that is used both as an input and output, and has a compact design. With a single magnetic click, this battery pack can be stored in your pocket or propped up using its sturdy magnet as a stand. Additionally, you don't have to worry about charging your phone and your battery pack separately, as you can charge both simultaneously when the pack is connected to a power source.

Leveraging Qi2 technology, the MagGo Power Bank securely snaps onto the back of compatible Android and Apple phones and packs a 6,600mAh battery capacity that can charge most phones at least once.

Also: Anker's new Qi2 MagGo Power Bank offers a bonus feature for iPhone users

This power bank also comes with a two-foot USB-C-to-USB-C cable, which is always handy to have. I like the clamshell design of this power bank, and it looks a lot like the Star Trek communicator from the days of old. It's a well-made, durable power bank, exactly what I'd expect from an Anker product.

Online reviews for this product are strong, although I feel that some buyers are confused about what Qi2 offers and expect it to be faster than a MagSafe charger (which it isn't).

Anker 622 MagSafe Wireless Charger Features: Capacity: 6,600mAh | Charging port: USB-C | Max output: 15W wireless, 20W wired

A "not-too-big, not-too-small" power bank, this product falls into the Goldilocks zone -- big enough for a few rounds of recharging but still small enough to carry.

I'm a fan of the Anker brand, and this is another gadget that I've taken out and about in cities (and into the wild) in several countries. Anker power banks are well-built, robust, and highly reliable. This is a power bank that's built for daily use, or for throwing into a drawer or glovebox for when you need it.

While this is a list of power banks for iPhones, I have to admit that I do like the fact that this power bank comes with USB-A and USB-C ports. If you have earbuds that need charging alongside the iPhone, this is a perfect pairing.

Despite the relatively large 10,000mAh capacity and two USB ports, this is still a portable power bank that's compact and lightweight enough to slip into a pocket or bag. It also fits great both in the hand and pocket, a sentiment echoed in reviews I've read on Amazon and Reddit.

Anker PowerCore Features: Capacity: 10,000mAh | Charging port: USB-C | Max output: 25W

A "not-too-big, not-too-small" power bank, this product falls into the Goldilocks zone -- big enough for a few rounds of recharging but still small enough to carry.

I'm a fan of the Anker brand, and this is another gadget that I've taken out and about in cities (and into the wild) in several countries. Anker power banks are well-built, robust, and highly reliable. This is a power bank that's built for daily use, or for throwing into a drawer or glovebox for when you need it.

While this is a list of power banks for iPhones, I have to admit that I do like the fact that this power bank comes with USB-A and USB-C ports. If you have earbuds that need charging alongside the iPhone, this is a perfect pairing.

Despite the relatively large 10,000mAh capacity and two USB ports, this is still a portable power bank that's compact and lightweight enough to slip into a pocket or bag. It also fits great both in the hand and pocket, a sentiment echoed in reviews I've read on Amazon and Reddit.

Anker PowerCore Features: Capacity: 10,000mAh | Charging port: USB-C | Max output: 25W

The biggest downer is reaching into your bag and discovering that you have a power bank without a cable. The Belkin Boostcharger removes this possibility because it features built-in Lightning and USB-C cables, separating it from the competition -- a feature that many reviewers on Amazon and B&H Photo also love.

This power bank also features passthrough technology, which means you can charge your iPhone with speeds up to 18W while charging the power bank.

This passthrough charging feature might not seem like much, but I've found this to be super useful both for use on a desk or nightstand and when traveling. It means I can have one small wall charger charging up the power bank, and then have the power bank simultaneously charging up a couple of devices. This not only saves on space and how many power outlets I need, it also streamlines what I need to carry, which is really appreciated when traveling.

The 10,000mAh capacity also means that it's not too big to be slipped into a pocket or bag.

Belkin Boostcharge Features: Capacity: 10,000mAh | Charging port: Integrated Lightning (MFI) and USB-C cables plus USB-C port | Max output: 23W

The biggest downer is reaching into your bag and discovering that you have a power bank without a cable. The Belkin Boostcharger removes this possibility because it features built-in Lightning and USB-C cables, separating it from the competition -- a feature that many reviewers on Amazon and B&H Photo also love.

This power bank also features passthrough technology, which means you can charge your iPhone with speeds up to 18W while charging the power bank.

This passthrough charging feature might not seem like much, but I've found this to be super useful both for use on a desk or nightstand and when traveling. It means I can have one small wall charger charging up the power bank, and then have the power bank simultaneously charging up a couple of devices. This not only saves on space and how many power outlets I need, it also streamlines what I need to carry, which is really appreciated when traveling.

The 10,000mAh capacity also means that it's not too big to be slipped into a pocket or bag.

Belkin Boostcharge Features: Capacity: 10,000mAh | Charging port: Integrated Lightning (MFI) and USB-C cables plus USB-C port | Max output: 23W

The Anker Nano 10,000mAh 30W is a power bank with a twist, and that twist is a built-in USB-C cable -- making it a great option for the iPhone 15.

This cable is a decent length at 0.6ft (19cm) and can be used for both charging the power bank and charging other devices. This cable fits through a metal loop on the power bank, keeping it out of the way when not in use and allowing it to be used as a lanyard loop when you're not charging anything.

There's a single button on the top of the unit to turn the power bank on. On the front, a small but exceptionally vibrant display shows the charge level and estimated charge/discharge time.

Anker Nano 10,000mAh 30W Features: Capacity: 10,000mAh | Charging port: USB-C | Max Output: 30W

The Anker Nano 10,000mAh 30W is a power bank with a twist, and that twist is a built-in USB-C cable -- making it a great option for the iPhone 15.

This cable is a decent length at 0.6ft (19cm) and can be used for both charging the power bank and charging other devices. This cable fits through a metal loop on the power bank, keeping it out of the way when not in use and allowing it to be used as a lanyard loop when you're not charging anything.

There's a single button on the top of the unit to turn the power bank on. On the front, a small but exceptionally vibrant display shows the charge level and estimated charge/discharge time.

Anker Nano 10,000mAh 30W Features: Capacity: 10,000mAh | Charging port: USB-C | Max Output: 30W

The Anker MagGo 6.6K battery pack is our pick for the best overall iPhone power bank, because the functional design makes it a multitasking winner. Plus, it offers easy integration with Apple devices. Here's how the best iPhone power banks compare based on pricing, capacity, and quick charge capabilities:

*Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.

The best iPhone power bank gives you enough mobile power to keep your phone running until you can plug it in. Here's a further breakdown if you're trying to decide which power bank is best for you since all vary in power, price, and even port availability.

Choose this iPhone power bank...

If you need...

Sharge CarbonMag 5K

A no-nonsense, thin-and-light power bank that just works. This one feel slike it melts into the aesthetic of your iPhone perfectly.

Anker MagGo 6.6K

A multitasking, all-around solid power bank. The kickstand is great for those who like to consume content on their iPhone.

Anker PowerCore

An affordable power bank with dual ports. This is my budget go-to power bank.

Belkin Boostcharge Plus

A power bank with integrated charging cables. Handy when you've forgotten to pack your charging cables.

Anker Nano 10,000mAh 30W

The perfect portable power bank for the iPhone 15 or iPhone 16 with a built-in cable.

Here are some factors I suggest you consider when choosing a power bank for your iPhone:

I chose these iPhone power banks through a combination of extensive research and using the products to charge everyday devices. I paid attention to:

Some cheap power banks and chargers can harm your smartphone. Overall, though, power banks are safe and work using the same technology as a regular charger. We trust any of the picks above to be quality power banks that won't damage your iPhone's battery.

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), portable chargers or power banks containing a lithium-ion battery must be packed in a carry-on bag, rather than in checked baggage. Most airlines allow a power bank with a battery of up to 27,000mAh.

Those cheaper power banks work; however, in my experience, they don't offer the capacities that they claim and don't last nearly as long as a decent power bank from a reputable manufacturer, don't deliver the power stated, and can overheat in use.

The phrase "you get what you pay for" applies to everything, including iPhone accessories. That's why it's better to spend more money to get something that'll enhance your phone's productivity and last.

A wireless power bank can be very helpful, since you don't have to remember to bring any cords or cables with you. Just set your iPhone on the power bank and start charging.

They're not ideal for use while you're actually traveling, however, since there isn't a way to secure your phone to the power bank. When flying or driving, your phone could slip off the charger without you noticing, leaving you with a dead or dying phone when you reach your destination. MagSafe power banks are good, but they're not infallible.

It depends on how many recharges you want. A 5,000mAh power bank will give you about two recharges of a standard iPhone, and a little less for the bigger iPhones.

This power bank is perfect for those who have switched to the iPhone 15 with its USB-C port, or who want a power bank that can wirelessly charge an iPhone and charge other things using USB-C. The built-in USB-C cable means it's always ready to charge a device or get charged itself.

This portable charger has a 30,800mAh capacity that can charge an iPhone 12 more than eight times and an iPhone 12 Pro Max more than six times.

This credit-card-sized power bank holds 6,000mAh of charge and features built-in USB-C and Lightning cables. The lightweight and slim design makes it perfect for slipping into a pocket or bag.

This lightweight INUI power bank is perfect for slipping into your backpack or pocket when your on the go. Its slim 0.5 inch body has a charging capacity of 10,000mAh that can charge an iPhone or iPad mini within an hour. Not only does it offer a USB-C IN&OUT port to charge all your devices, but you won't have to worry about your battery overheating thanks to INIU's 15-layer SmartProtect system.