Smartphones today are slimmer, sleeker, and more powerful than ever before. But with all that power comes a downside: faster battery drain. More RAM, brighter displays, faster processors, and 5G connectivity mean our devices demand more energy than ever.
Even as smartphone batteries improve, the pace at which they discharge has accelerated. This growing need for portable power has made power banks an essential gadget for many of us – like the Anker powerbank that I’m going to talk about today.
I’ve personally carried an Mi 20,000 mAh power bank for years. However, over the last few months, I noticed it was discharging more quickly. While the Samsung S24 Ultra is more power-hungry than the S20, I realized my old power bank was nearing the end of its life. That’s when I started looking for a new, reliable power bank.
During a recent airport layover, I spotted the Anker range of power banks. Their sleek design and impressive specs caught my attention immediately. Although I wanted the 27,000 mAh 100W model, it was a bit pricey.
So, I opted for the Anker 20,000 mAh 87W Fast Charge power bank instead. Since then, it’s been an excellent companion, and in this review, I’ll share my honest experience with it.
Build and Packaging: Minimalist Design with Practical Features
The Anker 20,000mAh power bank arrives in a simple, no-frills box. Inside, you get just the power bank and some basic paperwork – no extra cables or accessories. This straightforward packaging reflects Anker’s confidence in the product quality without relying on flashy presentation.
Size and Finish
The power bank’s size is almost identical to my old Mi 20,000 mAh unit, making it compact enough to fit comfortably in a backpack or even a back pocket if you’re careful. However, the smooth, glossy finish, while visually appealing, makes it a fingerprint magnet and somewhat slippery to hold. If you’re particular about keeping your gear clean, you’ll find yourself wiping it often. I recommend using a protective case or applying grip stickers to prevent accidental slips.
Built-in Charging Cable
One of the most thoughtful design elements is the built-in Type C charging cable attached to the unit. This eliminates the need to carry an extra cable for your phone or laptop, which is incredibly handy for quick charges on the go. While I appreciate this convenience, I do have some reservations about the cable’s long-term durability since it’s permanently attached and subject to wear each time it’s used. So far, after several months of use, it’s held up well, but I remain cautiously optimistic.
Ports and Display
The power bank features a simple screen and a button to display the current charge level, which helps me monitor power availability easily. It has two ports:
- Type C port: Supports 65W charging and doubles as the input port to recharge the power bank itself.
- Type A port: A traditional USB port for charging other devices.
This versatile setup covers most charging needs, from smartphones to laptops, without requiring additional adapters.
My Experience Using the Anker 20,000 mAh Power Bank
After a few weeks of daily use and travel, I’ve gathered a clear picture of what this power bank does well and where it could improve.
What I Liked
There are several standout features that make this power bank a joy to use:
- Super Fast Charging for Samsung S24 Ultra: The moment I plug in my S24 Ultra, the phone immediately shows “Super Fast Charging” at 45W. This rapid charging capability is a huge relief compared to my old Mi power bank, which struggled to keep up with the S24’s demands. This means I can quickly top up my phone during short breaks, which is invaluable on busy days.
- Efficient Charging for MacBook Air 2: Impressively, the power bank charges my MacBook Air 2 smoothly and quite quickly. Although I don’t rely on it much for my laptop – since the MacBook’s battery usually lasts all day – it’s reassuring to know I have a solid backup power source when traveling or working remotely.
- Built-in Cable Convenience: The integrated Type C cable is a lifesaver. I no longer have to juggle multiple cables or worry about forgetting one. It’s especially handy when I’m in a rush or traveling light. However, for longer charging sessions during trips, I prefer using a longer cable since I often keep the power bank in my bag or back pocket while using my phone. The short built-in cable limits this flexibility.
- Fast Recharging of the Power Bank: One of my biggest frustrations with older power banks was how long they took to recharge. The Anker 20,000 mAh supports 65W fast input charging, so it doesn’t take ages to refill its battery. This quick turnaround is a huge time-saver when I’m on the move.
What Could Have Been Better
While this power bank performs admirably, there are a few drawbacks worth noting:
- Slippery and Fingerprint-Prone Finish: The smooth, glossy surface looks sleek but makes the power bank slippery and prone to fingerprints. I strongly recommend using a case or grip stickers to improve handling and keep it clean.
- Warmth During Charging: The 87W fast charging capability means the power bank gets warm when charging devices – not uncomfortably hot, but noticeably warm to the touch. This is something to keep in mind if you’re charging multiple devices or using it extensively.
- Lack of Wireless Charging: While not a dealbreaker for me, this power bank does not support wireless charging. For those who prefer the convenience of wireless power, this is a missing feature.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Anker 20,000 mAh Power Bank
What devices can the Anker 20,000 mAh power bank charge?
This power bank is versatile enough to charge smartphones like the Samsung S24 Ultra, tablets, and even laptops such as the MacBook Air 2, thanks to its 87W fast charging capability and Type C port.
How long does it take to fully recharge the power bank?
Thanks to its 65W fast input charging, it takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours to fully recharge from zero, which is faster than many competing models.
Can I use the built-in cable for all devices?
The built-in cable is a Type C connector, so it works great with modern smartphones, tablets, and laptops that support USB-C charging. For devices requiring other connectors, you’ll need your own cables.
Is this power bank suitable for travel in Hyderabad and other locations?
Absolutely. Its compact size fits well in backpacks or carry-ons, and the fast charging capabilities mean you can quickly recharge devices during short breaks. It’s ideal for busy professionals and travelers in Hyderabad and beyond.
Is the Anker 20,000mAh Power Bank Worth Buying?
Priced around ₹4,500 in India, the Anker 20,000 mAh 87W power bank is slightly on the higher side compared to some alternatives. However, the combination of fast charging, solid capacity, and portability makes it a worthwhile investment for users like me who depend on multiple devices throughout the day.
For professionals and travelers who need reliable power for smartphones and laptops, this power bank offers peace of mind and convenience. Its fast input and output charging capabilities ensure minimal downtime, and the built-in cable adds practical value.
While the slippery finish and heat generation during charging are minor drawbacks, they don’t overshadow the overall performance and reliability.
Final Thoughts
The Anker 20,000mAh power bank has become an essential part of my tech gear. It’s reliable, powerful, and thoughtfully designed with features like the built-in cable and fast charging support for both input and output. Despite small quirks like its slippery finish and warmth during use, it delivers on its promise of keeping my devices charged throughout the day.
If you’re looking for a high-capacity power bank that can handle demanding smartphones like the Samsung S24 Ultra and occasional laptop charging, and you’re willing to invest a bit more for quality and speed, this is a solid choice.
Have questions or want to share your own experience? Drop a comment below or connect with me on Twitter @Atulmaharaj or Instagram @Atulmaharaj. Let’s keep the conversation going!
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Is this still a good buy? i own a google pixel 9 , it needs 45w charging. is this powerbank durable for longer years than others?
I love this, just the attached charging cable isn’t very flexible but love the fast charging speeds