My Favorite Power Bank is On Sale (But There’s an Even Better One You Should Buy)
I’m a gadget enthusiast, a digital nomad at heart even when I’m tethered to my desk, and a firm believer that a dead phone or tablet is a wasted opportunity. That’s why, for years, my reliable companion has been a specific Anker power bank. It’s been with me on countless adventures, through dreaded airport delays, and during those crucial last few percentage points of battery life that save a day. And guess what? It’s currently on sale during Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days. If you’ve ever considered grabbing one, now’s your chance!
But here’s the kicker, the plot twist, the technological upgrade you absolutely need to know about: while my beloved predecessor is a fantastic device, Anker has just released its successor, and it’s a game-changer. It’s also on sale! So, do you stick with the tried-and-true, or embrace the cutting-edge? Let’s dive into why you might want to spend a little more for a lot more power.
The Reigning Champion: My Go-To Anker Power Bank
Let’s first pour one out (or rather, charge one up) for my trusty Anker power bank. I’ve owned several iterations of Anker’s mid-to-high capacity power banks over the years, and they consistently deliver on their promise: reliable, fast charging in a surprisingly portable package. The particular model I’m referring to, while I won’t name its exact model number (as Anker’s naming conventions can be a labyrinth!), typically offers around 20,000mAh of capacity, multiple USB-A outputs, and often a USB-C input/output.
The beauty of this device lies in its versatility. It can fully recharge most smartphones 4-5 times, give a significant boost to a tablet, and even trickle-charge smaller devices like earbuds or smartwatches. This makes it an indispensable tool for long travel days, camping trips, or even just surviving a particularly busy workday away from an outlet. The build quality is always solid, feeling substantial without being overly bulky, and the matte finish usually resists fingerprints surprisingly well.
During the Prime Big Deal Days, you’ll likely find excellent discounts on these slightly older, but still incredibly capable, Anker power banks. If your budget is tight and you just need a reliable workhorse for everyday charging, this is still an outstanding option. It’s a testament to Anker’s engineering that even their previous models continue to outperform many competitors.
Enter the New Contender: Anker’s Latest & Greatest
Now, let’s talk about the future. Anker’s latest portable power bank, which is also part of the Amazon Prime Big Deal Days event, takes everything great about its predecessors and dials it up to eleven. While maintaining a similar capacity (often in the 20,000mAh to 24,000mAh range), the focus here is squarely on speed, efficiency, and expanded compatibility.
- Blazing Fast Charging Speeds: The most significant upgrade is often in the USB-C Power Delivery (PD) output. The new models frequently boast significantly higher wattage, sometimes jumping from 18W or 30W to a staggering 60W, 65W, or even 100W+. This isn’t just about faster phone charging; it means these power banks can now effectively charge many modern laptops, like the MacBook Air or various ultrabooks, at respectable speeds. This transforms a power bank from a phone accessory into a true mobile workstation essential.
- More Efficient Recharging: Not only do they charge your devices faster, but they also recharge themselves more quickly. With higher wattage USB-C input, you can fill up the power bank in a fraction of the time compared to older models, minimizing downtime.
- Advanced Safety Features: Anker always prioritizes safety, but newer models often incorporate even more sophisticated temperature control, overcharge protection, and short-circuit prevention for added peace of mind.
- Slightly More Compact & Refined Design: Despite the increased power, Anker often manages to shrink the footprint or reduce the weight slightly, or at least keep it comparable to older models while packing more punch.
Consider a scenario where you’re editing a video on your laptop on a long-haul flight, and your battery starts to dip. An older power bank might give you a trickle charge, barely extending your usage. But the new Anker model could potentially provide enough juice to keep you productive for hours, making it an invaluable asset for creative professionals, students, and frequent travelers.
Why the Upgrade is Worth It (Especially Now)
So, you might be thinking, “My current power bank works just fine. Why spend more?” And that’s a valid question. But the advancements in power bank technology, particularly in the realm of USB-C Power Delivery, have made the leap worthwhile, especially when both models are discounted.
Think about the devices you carry daily. Most modern smartphones, tablets, and increasingly, even accessories like portable monitors and headphones, utilize USB-C Power Delivery for optimal charging. An older power bank with lower wattage USB-C or predominantly USB-A outputs simply can’t keep up. You’ll be charging slower, carrying more adapters, and potentially missing out on the full potential of your devices.
The ability to charge a laptop reliably from a power bank is a game-changer for many. No more frantically searching for an outlet in cafes or airports. The latest Anker models often provide enough output to sustain or even slowly charge a moderately powered laptop, transforming your workflow and giving you true power independence. This added versatility and future-proofing make the slight increase in price a smart investment, particularly during a sale event.
Making Your Decision During Prime Big Deal Days
Amazon Prime Big Deal Days offers a fantastic opportunity to upgrade your tech arsenal without breaking the bank. Here’s my advice:
- Assess your needs: If you *only* charge your phone and maybe earbuds, and rarely travel, the older, cheaper Anker model might perfectly suffice. It’s still a fantastic product at an even better price.
- Consider your ecosystem: If you own a modern laptop (MacBook Pro/Air, Dell XPS, Surface Laptop, etc.), a USB-C PD tablet (iPad Pro/Air), or plan to in the near future, the higher wattage of the new Anker power bank is almost a necessity.
- Check the wattage: When comparing, always look at the USB-C Power Delivery output wattage. The higher, the better, especially for laptops. Anything 45W and above starts to get very interesting for laptop charging.
- Read reviews (even for Anker): While Anker is a trusted brand, a quick scan of recent reviews for the specific model you’re eyeing can provide practical insights into real-world performance.
Ultimately, while my older Anker power bank is a beloved relic that has served me faithfully, the latest iteration represents a significant leap forward in portable power. With faster charging, broader device compatibility (especially for laptops), and continued Anker reliability, it’s the smarter long-term investment. Don’t just get a good deal; get the best deal on the best tech that meets your evolving needs. Happy charging, and happy Prime Big Deal Days shopping!