100Wh is one of the most common configurations you’ll see for a power bank. There are a few reasons, some having to do with it being a good capacity for charging multiple phones (or one phone multiple times), or even providing a full charge for a tablet or laptop. 100Wh is a good capacity, and with very few exceptions you’ll get more than enough use out of a power bank of that size.
All that aside, the main reason that so many power banks are 100Wh is that it’s the largest capacity that’s allowed on an airplane without special permits or certification. So if you frequently travel by air (honestly one of the most compelling reasons to consider a power bank) then a 100Wh power bank is the largest you can be guaranteed to not have any issues with.
Here are our top 5 picks for the best 100Wh power banks currently available.
1. Charmast 26800mAh/100Wh Power Bank with PD & QC 3.0
- Capacity: 26800mAh / 100Wh
- Dimensions: 7.75” x 3.7” x 0.55”
- Weight: 0.69 lbs
- Ports: 3 USB Type-A Ports, 1 USB Type C Port, 1 Lightning Port
- Charging Time: 7 Hours
- Passthrough Charging: Yes
Or buy on Ebay.com or on Walmart.ca
The main appeal of the Charmast PD power bank is that it’s scarcely larger than the phone you’ll be charging with it. It has numerous charging ports, including a USB-C port, lightning port, and smart quick charge enabled port.
It has passthrough charging, but charging speed and output will be severely limited while doing so.
It has a 4-point LED display, allowing you to monitor the current battery level to within 25%.
It also includes multi-layer safety protections, including overheating, overcurrent, and overcharge. It’s not shock or impact-resistant, though none of the options on this list are.
- Exactly at the 100Wh limit
- Very thin given its capacity
- 4 different ports
- Long recharge time
2. Goal Zero Sherpa 25600mAh/94.72Wh
- Capacity: 25600mAh / 94.72Wh
- Dimensions: 7.5″ x 3.7″ x 1″
- Weight: 22.4 oz
- Ports: 2 USB Type-A Ports, 1 USB Type C Port
- Charging Time: 3 Hours
- Passthrough Charging: Yes
Or buy on GoalZero.com or on BestBuy.com
While the Goal Zero Sherpa is not exactly at 100Wh, it’s very close to the capacity at just about 94.72Wh. We added it to the list because this is a very versatile power bank that would be a great companion on any type of travel. But especially so, if you plan to visit remote areas.
The Goal Zero has been specially built for the outdoors. It features a very sturdy metal case, which makes it more durable than your run-of-the-mill power bank. Furthermore, it can charge directly via solar power if you happen to have such a device with you. The vast majority of power banks would not be able to charge directly via solar.
It’s also a portable charger that can deliver a good deal of power. The in/out USB type C port can output a max of 60W, which is enough to charge most laptop models. The USB type C is complimented by two USB type A ports that can deliver up to 3.4 A, more than enough to fast-charge your smartphone.
On its top side, it also features a wireless charging pad. Simply place your phone on the power bank with this feature activated and it will start charging immediately without having to plug in any cables.
Last but not least, this is a power bank that charges itself in a very short amount of time, given its capacity. In just about 3h with a fast-charging adaptor, you’re basically ready to go. There are very few power banks of similar capacity that can reach a full charge this fast.
Unboxing video
- High-quality & resistant case
- Very good power output
- Can be charged via solar power
- Wireless charging pad
- LCD display screen
- The wireless charging is slow
3. Hiluckey Solar Power Bank 25000mAh / 92.5Wh
- Capacity: 25000mAh / 92.5Wh
- Dimensions: 6.1″ x 3.4″ x 1.4″
- Weight: 17.6 oz
- Ports: 2 USB Type-A Ports, 1 Micro USB
- Charging Time: 15 Hours
- Passthrough Charging: Yes
Or buy on Ebay.com or on Hiluckey.com
The Hiluckey 25000mAh power bank comes quite close to the 100Wh limit imposed by the TSA, ranking in at 92.5Wh. The key feature of this portable charger is its four foldable solar panels. They can allow you to charge the power bank solely using sunlight. Although it can take several days of direct sunlight exposure in order to reach a full charge, it’s still quite an achievement, especially if you’re traveling to remote areas without access to grid power.
It also features two USB type A output ports. You’ll be able to charge two different devices at the same time. Unfortunately, they don’t feature a fast charging option, so don’t expect blazing-fast speeds.
The Hiluckey can get charged via its Micro USB port too. This way, it will take about 15 hours of plugged-in time. Not the fastest charging time, but given the fact that it does have the ability to supplement its power via sunshine, it does make for an reliable travel partner.
Unboxing video
- Comes with four solar panels
- Can be charged by solar power only
- Water-resistant
- Only two output ports
- Slow recharge time
Read our full review of the Hiluckey solar power bank
What you should know before flying with a power bank
Capacity
You already might be aware of the fact that only power banks under 100Wh can be permitted on flights without restrictions. However, you may still be able to check in a larger power bank provided you get it approved beforehand. The rules allow for power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh to be accepted on board, but only if they have specific approval from the airline.
Amount
There is no mentioned amount of power banks you can take with you if they’re under 100Wh. So basically, you can carry as many as you want. However, power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh are only allowed in the amount of two pieces per person.
Clear specifications
Although you may have a power bank that is under 100Wh, please make sure that it clearly states so on the device itself before boarding. Some airports (especially international ones) will want to see where the exact capacity is stated. In case they can’t determine that then it’s possible for the battery to be confiscated. The vast majority of power banks usually have the capacity printed on their back. Make sure yours has it as well.
Storage
You’ll be expected to store your power bank in the overhead compartment. It should be enclosed in a protective case and it should be shout down. You’re not allowed to use power banks during the actual flights.
