Introduction
Gaming on the go is awesome—until your battery dies mid-battle. Whether you’re grinding on the Steam Deck, exploring Hyrule on the Nintendo Switch 2, or emulating classics on your Android handheld, battery anxiety is real. That’s why considering power banks for gaming is essential, as a powerful, reliable power bank is a must-have for modern mobile gamers.
In this 2025 guide, we explore the best power banks for gaming on the go—those with high capacity, fast charging, and compatibility with demanding devices. No fluff, no gimmicks—just real solutions to keep you powered wherever you play.
What to Look for in a Power Bank for Gaming
Not all power banks are created equal. For gaming, look for:
✅ High capacity (≥20,000mAh) – To handle multiple charges of power-hungry devices
✅ Fast charging (USB-C PD) – Essential for Steam Deck and Switch
✅ Multiple ports – For dual-device gaming (e.g. charging your phone + console)
✅ Pass-through charging – Charge your device while recharging the bank
✅ Compact build – Portable but powerful
💡 Devices like the Steam Deck can draw up to 45W, so your power bank needs to keep up.
Best Overall Power Bank for Gaming: Anker 737 PowerCore 24K
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 24,000mAh |
| Output | 140W USB-C PD 3.1 |
| Ports | 2x USB-C, 1x USB-A |
| Weight | ~630g |
| Pass-through | Yes |
🧠 Why it’s great: Charges a Steam Deck in under 2 hours and can even top up a MacBook or portable monitor. Durable, efficient, and future-proof.
Best Budget Power UGREEN Power Bank 25000mAh 145W
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 25000mAh |
| Output | 100W |
| Ports | 2x USB-C, 2x USB-A |
| Weight | ~490g |
| Pass-through | Yes |
💸 Ideal for gamers who want serious power at under $70. Slim, stylish, and powerful enough for Steam Deck and Switch.
Best for Nintendo Switch Players: Zendure SuperMini X3
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 10,000mAh |
| Output | 45W USB-C |
| Ports | 1x USB-C, 2x USB-A |
| Weight | ~280g |
| Size | Pocketable |
🎮 Lightweight and perfect for Switch Lite or OLED models. Charges most handhelds fully once or twice. Not ideal for Steam Deck recharges, but great for light gaming trips.
Best Power Bank for Long Trips: Omni Mobile 25600
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 25,600mAh |
| Output | 100W + 60W USB-C |
| Ports | 2x USB-C, 1x USB-A, Wireless pad |
| Weight | ~700g |
| Extras | Wireless Qi charging, AC adapter support |
✈️ Designed for digital nomads and power users. Can charge a Steam Deck, your phone, and Bluetooth earbuds simultaneously.
Best Pocket-Sized Power Bank: Shargeek Storm² Slim
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 20,000mAh |
| Output | 100W |
| Design | Transparent shell, OLED screen |
| Ports | 2x USB-C |
| Features | Battery diagnostics, passthrough |
🔍 If you want something portable and tech-chic, the Storm² Slim delivers style AND substance.
Charging Times for Steam Deck & Switch (Estimated)
| Device | Power Bank Output | 0–100% Charging Time |
|---|---|---|
| Steam Deck | 45W+ | 1.8–2.2 hours |
| Switch OLED | 18W+ | 2–2.5 hours |
| Switch Lite | 18W | ~2 hours |
| Phone (5,000mAh) | 30W | 1–1.5 hours |
📈 Higher wattage = faster gaming turnaround.
Can You Game While Charging from a Power Bank?
Yes—if the power bank can supply enough wattage continuously. For example:
- Steam Deck: Needs at least 30W sustained to game while charging
- Nintendo Switch: Stable with 18–25W
- Low-output banks may drain slower, not charge while playing
⚠️ Always use USB-C PD cables and avoid cheap knockoffs.
Tips to Maximize Battery Life on the Go
🔋 Activate power-saving modes on your device
🎮 Lower screen brightness and resolution
🛑 Close background apps and processes
⚙️ Use airplane mode if playing offline
💡 Keep your power bank cool—overheating slows charging
Can You Bring Power Banks on Planes?
Yes—but check airline limits.
| Airline | Max Capacity Allowed (Carry-On) |
|---|---|
| Most airlines | Up to 27,000mAh (100Wh) without approval |
| With airline approval | Up to 160Wh (≈43,000mAh) |
| Forbidden | Power banks in checked luggage |
🧠 Stick to 20,000–25,000mAh and you’re golden.
Top Power Bank Brands for Gamers in 2025
- 🔌 Anker – Trusted, widely available, premium
- 🔋 Zendure – Great design and features
- ⚡ Baseus – Affordable with high specs
- 💼 Omnicharge – Professional-grade with advanced options
- 🧊 Shargeek – Futuristic aesthetics, real power
Conclusion: Power Up Your Play Anywhere
Gaming doesn’t have to stop just because you’re on the move. With the right power bank, you can stay in the fight, finish the dungeon, or climb the ladder—even from a park bench or airplane seat.
Whether you want something lightweight for your Switch, or a 100W monster for your Steam Deck, there’s a power solution ready to follow you into battle.
🎮 Because in 2025, portable gaming deserves portable power.
FAQ – Gaming with Power Banks
Can I damage my Steam Deck with a bad power bank?
Yes, avoid low-quality or non-PD chargers. Use certified USB-C PD power banks.
Do all USB-C ports support fast charging?
No. Look for “USB-C PD” (Power Delivery) and 30W+ output minimum.
Will my power bank work with future handhelds like ROG Ally X?
Most likely, yes—if it delivers 65–100W and supports PD 3.0 or above.
How many charges can I get from 20,000mAh?
Roughly 1.5 full Steam Deck charges or 3 full Switch charges.
Can I charge and play at the same time?
Yes—with a high-wattage power bank (45W+). Lower wattage may not charge while gaming.

