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The best power bank 2026: 6 power banks for phones, laptops, iPhone and tight budgets
Updated 25 October 2026
Short answer
The best power bank for most people is the Anker Power Bank (20K, 87W) with built-in cable: techtest.org's all-round pick, at around 40 euros. For laptops, go for the Anker Prime 26K (AUTO BILD grade 1.3) or the cheaper INIU BI-B64; for an iPhone, the slim UGREEN MagFlow Air. The INIU P50 is small and light, and the budget pick is the Intenso HE20000 (AUTO BILD grade 1.4).
How we chose
For this list we analysed independent tests: the freely available information from Stiftung Warentest's power bank test (24 models, January 2026), the AUTO BILD ranking, the measurements and 2026 ranking by techtest.org, Macwelt's review of the UGREEN MagFlow Air and the test overviews on testsieger.de and testberichte.de, alongside manufacturer specs. We only included models sold in Germany in 2026, for example on Amazon.de. We did not test the power banks ourselves. Stiftung Warentest's individual grades are paywalled, so we do not quote them.
What to look for: usable capacity, not the mAh figure
The mAh number on the box refers to the battery cells, not what actually reaches your phone. In the measurements we analysed, usually 75 to 90 percent of it made it through. Stiftung Warentest measured 28.5 to 35.8 Wh of usable energy for small models and 58.3 to 69.9 Wh for large ones.
What to look for: output and throttling
20 to 30 watts is plenty for a phone; for a laptop, plan on 65 to 140 watts over USB-C. According to Stiftung Warentest, many power banks hold their advertised peak output only briefly before throttling. Look for tests that measure sustained output.
What to look for: size and weight
10,000 mAh models weigh about 150 to 230 grams and fit in a pocket. 20,000 mAh means around 420 to 480 grams, and laptop power banks above 25,000 mAh weigh almost 600 grams. Think about whether you will carry it daily or only when travelling.
What to look for: ports and cables
At least one USB-C port with Power Delivery should be standard by now. A built-in cable is handy because you cannot forget it. If you want to charge several devices at once, check how much the output per port drops.
What to look for: wireless and MagSafe
Magnetic power banks stick to an iPhone and charge without a cable. According to Stiftung Warentest, though, more energy is lost as heat than with USB. Look for Qi2 or Qi2.2 certification: Qi2.2 reaches up to 25 watts, Qi2 up to 15 watts.
What to look for: flight rules
For air travel, the watt-hour rating is what counts. Up to 100 Wh you can take a power bank in your carry-on without approval, which is roughly 27,000 mAh at 3.7 volts. Laptop power banks rated at 99.75 or 99.9 Wh sit just below that.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take a power bank on a plane?
Yes, but only in your carry-on; power banks are banned from checked luggage. Up to 100 Wh needs no approval, 100 to 160 Wh only with the airline's consent, and above 160 Wh is not allowed at all. Most airlines allow at most two power banks per person. Check your airline's rules before you fly.
Can I use my power bank during the flight?
That depends on the airline. Since 27 March 2026, ICAO rules prohibit charging a power bank from seat USB ports or power outlets. The Lufthansa Group, including Eurowings, Swiss, Austrian and Brussels Airlines, has banned using power banks on board entirely since 15 January 2026. The power bank must be kept on your body, in the seat pocket or under the seat, not in the overhead bin.
How do I convert mAh to watt-hours?
Divide the mAh figure by 1,000 and multiply by the nominal voltage, usually 3.7 volts. A 20,000 mAh power bank therefore has about 74 Wh, well below the 100 Wh limit. The Wh figure is often printed on the casing too.
Which power bank won the Stiftung Warentest?
In January 2026, Stiftung Warentest tested 24 power banks from 18 brands, with grades ranging from good to adequate. Which model came out on top is only in the paid section of test.de, so we do not name it here. Freely available: good models cost under 40 euros, and no power bank caught fire or exploded in the safety tests.
How should I store a power bank?
Do not leave it unused for years: it slowly self-discharges and can be damaged. Stiftung Warentest recommends topping it up now and then. Keep it out of direct sun, and according to Warentest, built-in solar panels are too small to charge it in any useful way.