Best Cheap Power Bank Picks of 2025: Stay Charged for Less

Whether you’re halfway through a night out, mid-commute, or just trying to get through your day, a flat phone can throw everything off. But you don’t have to blow your budget to get a power bank that’s fast, reliable, and built to last.

We’ve pulled together 2025’s best cheap power banks that actually deliver—no gimmicks, no duds. You’ll find smart picks under £30, what features to look for, plus quick tips to help your power bank last longer and work smarter.

alt: Anker cheap power bank

Best Cheap Power Banks in 2025

Below you’ll find four top cheap power banks that nail the sweet spot between performance, size and cost in 2025. Each one shines for different reasons, so pick the flavour of convenience that matches how you move.

Anker Nano Power Bank (10K, 30W)

With a 10,000 mAh pack inside, the Anker Nano Power Bank 30W delivers enough energy to top up most modern handsets twice, yet it’s barely bigger than a card deck at 4.09 × 2.06 × 1.02 in and 215 g.

An integrated USB-C cable or the USB-C port pushes 30W PD both ways, so you can refill the bank to 50% in about 45 minutes or blast an iPhone 15 from flat to half in roughly 30 minutes.

A bright colour display keeps tabs on remaining juice and time-to-full, while an extra USB-A port supplies 22.5W for legacy leads. Anker’s MultiProtect circuitry rounds off the safety side.

alt: Anker Nano Power Bank 10K 30W

 

What’s good:

• 30W in/out USB-C port plus built-in cable—no extra lead to lose
• Handy colour screen for real-time percentages
• Compact and pocket-friendly despite 10K capacity
• Charges old-school USB-A gear at up to 22.5W

Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K)

If you’d rather not think about outlets for a few days, the Anker 325 Power Bank’s 20,000 mAh reservoir is the budget hero to beat. Two USB-A ports share up to 15W—enough to charge two phones overnight—while Micro-USB or USB-C handle re-charging the bank itself.

 

The slab-style shell (6.22 × 2.93 × 0.76 in, 12.1 oz) still slides into a laptop sleeve, and Anker’s PowerIQ + VoltageBoost chipsets keep current steady even under load. A dedicated trickle-mode lets you top up earbuds without over-current worries.

It’s definitely not a fast-charging, modern power bank, but if you’ve got older devices and just want a big 20,000 mAh battery for cheap, this one gets the job done.

alt: Anker 325 Power Bank PowerCore 20K

 

What’s good:

• Massive 20,000 mAh cell for multi-day trips
• Dual-device USB-A output—great for sharing
• Trickle-charge mode for low-draw wearables
• Tough, grippy finish shrugs off scratches

Anker 622 Magnetic Battery

Designed for MagSafe-equipped iPhones, the Anker 622 Magnetic Battery snaps on with a firm 9N magnet and starts 7.5W Qi wireless charging instantly. With a 5,000 mAh battery, you get a full charge—and then some—to keep you powered all day.

And at just 12.8 mm thin and weighing only 140 g, it slips right into your pocket alongside your phone without a second thought.

Flip out the hidden kick-stand and your phone props itself for video calls while topping up. A side USB-C port lets you run wired or pass-through charging when you’ve got a lead handy. Slim, purse-friendly colours seal the commuter appeal.

alt: Anker 622 Magnetic Battery

What’s good:

• Snap-on wireless charging ease—no cables, perfect alignment
• Fold-out stand for Netflix or FaceTime on the train
• USB-C port supports pass-through if you need wires
• Just 12.8 mm thick; feather-light 140 g build

Anker Nano Power Bank (22.5W, Built-in USB-C Connector)

When pockets are premium real estate, the Anker Nano Power Bank 22.5W is your “plug-and-go” option. The fold-flat USB-C connector pops straight into your phone—no cables, no wobble.

Despite its lipstick-tube size (130 × 100 × 30 mm, 100 g), it outputs up to 22.5W and can recharge simultaneously via the spare USB-C port. The exterior is made from 75% post-consumer recycled materials, and the recessed connector clears phone cases up to 4.9 mm thick.

alt: Anker Nano Power Bank 22.5W

What’s good:

• Built-in bi-directional USB-C plug — “cable-free” charging
• 5W PD speed in an ultra-compact 100 g body
• Dual-port passthrough design lets you charge the bank and phone together
• Case-friendly clearance up to 4.9 mm

What to Look for When Choosing a Budget-Friendly Power Bank

Buying a budget power bank doesn’t mean settling for second-best. The key is knowing what to look for—because not all cheap models are worth your time.

Here’s what matters when choosing a cheap and good power bank that’ll actually do the job:

Battery capacity

Battery size is usually listed in mAh, but bigger numbers aren’t always better. For most people, 5,000 mAh gives you one full phone charge—ideal for short trips or emergency top-ups. 10,000 mAh is the sweet spot for daily use, offering around two full phone charges without adding much bulk.

If you’re travelling or charging multiple devices, go for 20,000 mAh and up. Just remember only those under 100 watt-hours (Wh) are safe for air travel, which usually means up to 27,000 mAh is fair game.

Charging speed and output power

If your phone supports USB-C Power Delivery (PD) for fast charging, choose a power bank that can supply at least 20–30W PD for a 0-to-50% top-up in half an hour. Lower-priced models that rely on older 10–15W USB-A ports will still work—they’ll just charge roughly twice as slowly

Recharging the power bank itself

A budget unit that also re-charges over USB-C at 18–30W gets you back to full in under four hours. Pass-through lets you charge the bank and phone together, handy in hotel rooms, but constant heat can age the cells faster, so use it sparingly

Ports, built-ins, and smart features

Multiple outputs, built-in cables or a snap-on wireless pad add versatility without adding bulk. Look for a dedicated low-current / trickle mode if you plan to top up earbuds or smart-watches. OLED or LED screens showing the exact percentage are especially handy.

Safety and certifications

Even budget-friendly power banks should meet basic UK safety standards. Look for CE and UKCA markings, which show the device complies with essential electrical and interference regulations. The best inexpensive power banks also include built-in safety features like over-voltage, short circuit, and temperature protection—worth having, even if it’s not flashy.

Size, weight and portability

Today’s 10,000 mAh units often weigh under 220 grams, and many are compact enough to slip in your pocket or travel pouch. Rounded corners, anti-slip finishes, and a durable build make a big difference when you’re on the move.

Practical Tips to Maximize the Lifespan of Your Power Bank

A power bank might seem like a plug-and-play item, but a few smart habits can go a long way in helping it last longer, charge better, and stay safe.

• Avoid running to 0% or 100% too often: Lithium-ion batteries don’t love extremes. Try to keep the battery somewhere between 20% and 80%most of the time. It reduces wear and slows the natural ageing process. Letting it drain completely or leaving it fully topped up all the time will shorten its lifespan faster than anything else.
• Keep it cool: Heat is the enemy. Storing or charging your power bank in hot environments—like the back seat of a car or next to a laptop fan—can cause long-term damage.
• Don’t leave it plugged in overnight: Most power banks stop charging once full, but keeping them plugged in at 100% means they trickle on and off to maintain that top level—adding heat and strain. Once it’s fully charged, just unplug it.
• Charge it every few months, even if you’re not using it: If you leave a power bank in a drawer for months, it will slowly drain. Top it up to around 50% and give it a quick charge every 2–3 monthsto avoid deep discharge.
• Use quality cables and wall chargers: Poor-quality chargers don’t just slow things down—they can also overheat and affect your device’s charging performance. Use certified wall adapters and cables to get proper speeds and keep your gear running efficiently.

Conclusion

That’s your lowdown on the best cheap power banks of 2025—devices that punch well above their price tag. Whether you need all-day juice for your phone, a lightweight backup in your bag, or a sleek wireless pack that snaps on, there’s a budget-friendly pick here for you. Don’t overthink it, choose what fits your lifestyle, follow the simple care tips, and enjoy the freedom of never stressing over a red battery bar again.

FAQs

How long do budget banks last?

Budget power banks typically have a lifespan of 1 to 2 years, depending on usage and build quality. They generally endure between 300 to 500 full charge cycles before their capacity diminishes noticeably. To prolong their life, avoid letting them fully discharge, keep them away from extreme temperatures, and store them in a cool, dry place.

Are cheap power banks safe to use?

While some affordable power banks are safe, others may pose risks if they lack proper safety features. Low-cost models might not include essential protections against overcharging, overheating, or short circuits, increasing the risk of device damage or even fire hazards. To ensure safety, purchase power banks from reputable brands like Anker that comply with UK safety standards and look for certifications like UKCA and CE.

Do cheap power banks charge slower than expensive ones?

Often, yes. Cheaper power banks may have lower output capacities, such as 5V/1A, leading to slower charging times. In contrast, higher-end models often support fast-charging technologies like Power Delivery or Quick Charge, offering outputs of 18-30W or more, which can significantly reduce charging time. Additionally, premium power banks may feature smart charging technology that optimizes power delivery based on your device’s needs.

How many times can a cheap power bank charge my phone?

That depends on the capacity of the power bank and your phone’s battery size. For example, a budget power bank with a 10,000 mAh capacity might fully charge an average smartphone (with a 3,000–4,000mAh battery) about 2 to 3 times. If you go for a larger one, like a 20,000 mAh model, you’re looking at around 4 to 6 full charges.