What Do You Mean I've Got Too Many Battery Packs?
Reviewing the Anker Laptop Power Bank
I've lost count of how many battery packs I own, but as far as I'm concerned, there's no such thing as too many. My philosophy is simple: you never know when you'll need that extra juice. With that in mind, here's my latest acquisition from Anker, which caught my attention due to its handy built-in cables.
Anker is essentially the Apple of battery packs—always reliable, sleek, and functional. But their naming conventions? Not exactly inspiring. On the box, they call it the “High-Power Multi-Device Charger,” yet over at the Amazon listing, it’s “Anker Laptop Power Bank.” Either name is hardly a showstopper compared to others on the market, such as AOHI’s “Starship 40,000mAh Power Bank.” But it's not about the name; it's about performance and functionality.
Unboxing was straightforward, quickly revealing the pack’s standout feature: dual integrated cables. One is retractable, neatly hidden within the pack itself, and the other loops around, doubling as a convenient carrying handle. Built-in cables can be a double-edged sword—you're never scrambling to find a cable, but your battery pack might lose significant functionality if one breaks.
The retractable cable works impressively smoothly, similar to adjusting a roller blind. It allows you to lock it securely at any length, which is practical and satisfying to use.
This battery pack features a high-resolution display that's not just functional—it's charmingly interactive. The screen flashes a smiley face, winks, and informs you of the charge percentage—a quirky touch I genuinely appreciate.
Functionally, it charges up to four devices simultaneously, with a total max output of 165 watts. For single-port charging, you're looking at a solid 100 watts, powerful enough to recharge your MacBook Pro M3 to 80% in around 30 minutes. Impressive indeed.
I tested its charging speed using a USB-C power bank plugged into the wall. Initially, connecting one cable showed moderate charging speeds, but plugging in the second integrated cable instantly doubled the input—from 27 to around 59 watts. This dual-cable setup isn’t just for show; it genuinely boosts performance.
I also tested charging my MacBook Air M3. The power bank handled it comfortably, maintaining a consistent charge of around 27 watts. Portability is crucial, especially if you're travelling. At 25,000 mAh, this battery pack is comfortably flight-approved, providing enough capacity to fully charge an iPhone 15 approximately four and a half times and a MacBook Air at least once—perfect for long-haul flights or extended outings.
The primary benefit is convenience—no fumbling for cables or dealing with tangles. However, the integrated cables come with a risk: the device's versatility is compromised if one breaks. Thankfully, Anker claims the retractable cable is tested for over 20,000 retractions, indicating solid reliability.
One minor disappointment was the absence of a protective carrying pouch, standard with many premium power banks. You must source your case if you're particular about maintaining your gear.
Aesthetically, Anker continues to impress. The device features a pleasing, rubberised texture that grips surfaces nicely, complemented by a subtle blue accent for a bit of visual flair.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Built-in cables provide immediate convenience.
High charging speed, especially when using dual cables.
Engaging, clear digital display with intuitive interactions.
Cons
No protective pouch is included.
Integrated cables mean the potential loss of functionality if damaged.
Naming conventions could be improved for clarity and appeal.
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This post is based on a YouTube review published on the 22nd of January 2025:
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