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Buying guide · 4 min read
How to choose a power bank in 2026
Capacity, wattage and ports matter more than the number printed on the box. Here's how to pick.
Start with capacity
A 10000mAh pack covers roughly two phone charges; 20000mAh suits a weekend away or charging a laptop once. Larger packs are heavier, so match the size to how you travel rather than buying the biggest available.
Check the output wattage
Phones charge quickly at 20–30W. Laptops usually need 45W or more over USB-C Power Delivery. If a pack lists only total output, confirm the wattage available from a single port.
Ports and cables
Two USB-C ports plus one USB-A covers most households. Make sure the bundled cable supports the wattage you paid for — an old cable will quietly slow charging down.