Affordable and efficient portable power is a necessity these days, keeping our electronic devices operational while on the go. But there are literally dozens of options to choose from, making it abundantly difficult to decide which mobile charging solution is best for you. We’ve sorted through countless portable power options and came up with six of the best portable power stations to keep your smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other gadgets functioning while living off the grid.
The best overall: Jackery Explorer 1000
Jackery has been a mainstay in the portable power market for several years, and today, the company continues to set the standard. With three AC outlets, two USB-A, and two USB-C plugs, you’ll have plenty of options for keeping your gadgets charged.
The 1002Wh lithium batteries in the Explorer 1000 provide up to eight laptop charges, 50 camera charges, or 100 phone charges. You can recharge the power station using an AC wall outlet, a DC port in your car, or a compatible solar panel. A built-in LCD readout also illustrates the current charge levels and the generator’s depletion and recharge rates. Read the Jackery Explorer 1000 review.
The best gas-powered alternative: DuroMax XP4400EH
Capable of producing 4,400 watts, the DuroMax XP4400EH portable generator is one of our favorite gas-powered options on the market. The 4-gallon tank provides up to eight hours of operational use, allowing you to keep appliances powered during prolonged outages. The XP4400EH is a hybrid model that also supports a 20-pound propane tank, perfect for long-term storage.
One of the biggest knocks against gas generators is excessive noise. If you’re running the generator at night, you run the risk of annoying your neighbors. Fortunately for those nearby, the XP4400EH is one of the quietest gas-powered options available. With an operational level of roughly 69 dBm, this model is about as loud as a normal conversation or vacuum cleaner. This particular model makes use of MX2 technology, which lets operators pick between running the generator at 120V and 240V simultaneously or at 120V at full power. This option can come in handy when using it with an RV. If you prefer a gas model to keep your home running on all cylinders, the $1,459 DuroMax XP4400EH is our pick.
The best for your car: Noco Boost Plus GB40
A backup generator for your home is a smart option, but we also recommend carrying a portable power source for your car. The Noco Boost Plus GB40 is a lightweight and compact device that has a variety of functions that come in handy during emergency situations. For example, the device comes with a set of jumper cables and, on a full charge, is capable of jump-starting a whopping 50 vehicles before its internal battery requires a recharge of its own.
The Noco Boost Plus GB40 is IP65 water-resistant and includes a built-in flashlight with up to 100 lumens of illumination. It can even serve as a blinking hazard light to warn approaching traffic of any roadside challenges. The power bank comes equipped with a USB port for keeping a smartphone or tablet juiced up while on the road.
The best for smartphones: Anker PowerCore Speed
Sometimes we need a power station that’s a bit more portable than the other options on this list. That’s where the Anker PowerCore III 10K Wireless comes into play. Compact and lightweight, this battery pack is equipped with a 10,000mAh battery, which is enough to recharge an iPhone at least twice. With its auto-sensing, surge-protecting circuitry, the PowerCore ensures our mobile devices stay safe while recharging their internal batteries.
The PowerCore III 10K Wireless includes two USB battery ports, both of which support the Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 technology. This feature allows devices to safely recharge at a rate nearly four times faster than usual — a handy option when charging on-the-go. The most convenient part of this battery is its Qi wireless charging capability, eliminating extra fiddling with cables. It even has a little built-in stand so you can enjoy a show while your phone is recharging.
The best for the campsite: EcoFlow Delta
EcoFlow has became one of the most interesting options for use at remote campsites. The EcoFlow Delta offers an incredible 1,260 watt-hours of battery life. When coupled with its 13 different charging ports — including six AC outlets — this portable generator actually provides enough juice to power small appliances such as an LCD TV or mini-fridge. Better yet, the battery charges up from empty to 80% in under an hour.
The EcoFlow Delta comes with a built-in handle, making it easy to carry to and from camp. It even operates in extreme conditions, continuing to function in temperatures ranging from -4 degrees to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If you need a power station to keep your mobile devices, cameras, drones, and other devices running in the backcountry, the EcoFlow Delta is a great option.
The best for the mobile professional: Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC
Modern road warriors need a different level of portable power than other users. In addition to keeping their smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets charged, they may also need to keep their laptops juiced and ready for work. The Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC is designed exactly for them, not only offering four USB ports but an AC outlet and wireless charging pad as well. Its compact and lightweight design — weighing in at just 2 pounds — makes it easy to tote along just about anywhere.
The Sherpa 100AC is equipped with a high-capacity battery and can also be used to charge camera batteries, drones, and Bluetooth speakers. For the mobile professional, this $300 battery pack is a godsend, keeping a bevy of technology functioning no matter where they’re off to next.