Best Power Bank for Steam Deck to use as a Portable Charger

Like most people, you’re probably looking to take your new Steam Deck wherever you go. Being the first truly portable PC gaming console, Valve’s Steam Deck will likely change the way you can enjoy your favorite Steam games. However, since it relies heavily on an internal battery, using a power bank as a portable charger is one of the best ways to assure continuous gaming without interruption.

Internally, the Steam Deck has a lot under the hood. Capable of 60 FPS with a powerful GPU, CPU and 16GB of RAM, it packs quite a bit of processing power in such a small form-factor. Not to mention, the beautiful 7″ touchscreen, internal fans and dual trackpads; there’s quite a bit for the 40Wh battery to keep up with. Regardless, the supposed 8 hour battery life will drain quite fast if you’re pushing your Steam Deck to the limit. In fact, when playing high-demanding games, you may even experience a maximum of 2-4 hours of gameplay before you’re alerted of a low battery.

Choosing the Best Power Bank for Steam Deck

Needless to say, a power bank for Steam Deck in 2022 is a smart move. Using it as a portable charger will keep you gaming for longer and without the need to stop and plug into an outlet. But like most upgrades, you need to know exactly what to look for.

Power Bank Capacity

One of the most important factors is the power bank’s capacity. Typically rated in mAh (milliamp Hours), the higher the mAh, the more capacity it has. The Steam Deck has a 40Whr internal battery. That said, a typical-sized power bank will have enough “juice” to fully recharge the Steam Deck several times. With this in mind, we’re only going to recommend power banks that have at least 10,000 mAh. Sure, you could simply look for the highest capacity possible, but then you’ll be sacrificing portability. As you get larger capacities, the physical size will likely increase.

Dimensions

The overall dimensions of a power bank go hand-in-hand with the capacity. Larger battery capacities require more bulk; there’s simply no way around it. Regardless, we need to take the size and shape into consideration to make sure the power bank you choose is not overly bulky or heavy.

Power Output

Power Delivery or PD charging is an essential feature for a Steam Deck power bank. Since the OEM Steam Deck charger uses 45W of USB Type-C PD 3.0 charging, you’ll want a power bank that’s similar in specs so re-charge times are adequate. Also, take note on the power output wattage. Anything over 45W will charge faster than the OEM charger. On the contrary, anything under 45W may be slightly slower than you’re used to. Let’s be honest, slow charge times can be frustrating. Needless to say, keep power output as a top-priority when choosing the best power bank for your Steam Deck.

Best All-Around: Anker PowerCore Essential 20K PD

As our pick for best all-around, the Anker PowerCore Essential 20K PD provides 20,000 mAh of capacity in a slim, durable body. Measuring 6.22″ long x 2.93″ wide x 0.76″ thick and weighing in at just over 12 ounces (350 grams), it has a ruggedized textured appearance. On one end, there’s a USB-A and USB-C port. The USB-C port is equipped with both 20W of PD output and input, perfect for charging the Steam Deck. On the top panel is a small button with tiny LEDs that indicate the remaining battery life.

Although the Anker PowerCore Essential is roughly the same size as an iPhone 12, it can charge virtually any USB-C powered device you plug into it. And with the 20,000 mAh capacity, you’re going to be able to fully re-charge the Steam Deck several times. Best of all, it comes included with all of the essential charging cables, a travel pouch and an impressive 18-month warranty. All in all, this is a highly capable power bank that’s not bulky, charges quick and carries a hefty capacity.

Capacity: 20,000 mAh
Size: 6.22″ x 2.93″ x 0.76″
Power Output 20W Power Delivery

What We Liked

• Well-made, durable build quality.
• Compact form-factor.

What We Didn’t Like

• Only available in black.
• Power button can be mistakenly activated.

Best Runner-Up: Zendure X5 Portable Charger

As another fantastic option, the Zendure X5 Portable Charger gets our vote for the best runner-up power bank for Steam Deck. Although the capacity is only rated for 15,000 mAh, which is 1/4 less than the Anker PowerCore Essential, the Zendure boasts an impressive 45W PD power output. This is the same power output as the OEM Steam Deck charger. It’s equipped with two USB-A and one USB-C port on one end, directly next to the power button. That said, for optimum charge times, the USB-C port is what you’ll need to plug the Steam Deck into.

Something unique about the Zendure X5 is the USB hub function. With it, you can connect your Steam Deck to the USB-C charging port, and plug-in a mouse, flash drive, keyboard or other peripheral into the two USB-A ports. Therefore, you could essentially use this specific power bank as a Steam Deck dock as an alternative purpose for it. In addition, it’s incredibly compact, weighing just 14 ounces (397 grams) and measuring only 4.51″ long x 2.91 wide x 0.98 thick. Regardless, with the 15,000 mAh capacity, you can achieve several full charges for the Steam Deck. And with 45W PD output, it’ll charge faster than nearly any other option.

Capacity: 15,000 mAh
Size: 4.51″ x 2.91″ x 0.98″
Power Output 45W Power Delivery

What We Liked

• 45W PD output.
• Very compact form-factor.
• Can be used as a USB hub.

What We Didn’t Like

• Exterior is slick and somewhat slippery.
• More expensive than most options.
• Only available in white.

Best High-End: Crave Plus PRO Power Bank

For those looking for a premium option, the Crave Plus PRO is a beautifully designed power bank with PD charging capabilities. In fact, the 45W PD output it delivers the same charging capabilities as the OEM that comes with the Steam Deck. In addition, the aluminum exterior feels nice, solid and looks quite sleek. Although at 7″ long, 3.4″ wide, 0.7″ thick and 16.1 ounces (456 grams), it’s a bit beefier than the Anker PowerCore but with the same capacity.

On the end of the Crave Plus PRO, there’s two USB-A outputs and one PD input/output. The side houses four tiny LEDs that indicate remaining battery life, which is right next to the power button. All in all, you’re getting a well-made, fast charging Steam Deck power bank that can fully re-charge it several times.

Capacity: 20,000 mAh
Size: 7″ x 3.4″ x 0.7″
Power Output 45W Power Delivery

What We Liked

• 45W PD output.
• High-quality, sleek design.
• Looks beautiful.

What We Didn’t Like

• A bit heavier, bulkier than others.
• Quite expensive.

Best Affordable: INIU Portable Charger

If you don’t want to spend a lot, but still want a capable power bank for the Steam Deck, we recommend checking out the INIU Portable Charger. This is a 20,000 mAh capacity power bank that has nearly the same capabilities as the other options, but much more affordable. Providing up to 20W PD output, it’s more than capable of re-charging the Steam Deck relatively quickly. Available in either white or black, it even has a built-in screen that clearly determines the remaining battery life.

On one end there’s two USB-A outputs and one USB-C input/output that are rated 22.5W and 20W, respectively. In-between the charging ports is a tiny LED that’s actually a built-in flashlight. Although it’s not entirely necessary, it’s a cool, extra perk. Measuring 5.3″ long, 2.8″ wide, 1″ thick and weighing in at 12.8 ounces (363 grams), it’s roughly the same size as the Zendure X5. Best of all, it’s backed by a 3 year warranty, which is especially generous with any battery-related product.

Capacity: 20,000 mAh
Size: 5.3″ x 2.8″ x 1″
Power Output 20W Power Delivery

What We Liked

• Digital screen shows remaining battery capacity.
• Not very expensive.
• Backed by a 3 year warranty.

What We Didn’t Like

• Somewhat cheap build quality.
• Screen and flashlight can use up much needed capacity.

Best Versatility: Hiluckey Solar Charger Power Bank

For those looking for something a bit different, the Hiluckey Solar Charger Power Bank offers quite a bit. Take one look and you’ll realize that there’s a lot going on. On one side there’s a large solar panel covering the entire exterior. This trickle-charges the power bank while it sits in the sun. But it’s not the only available charging method. On one end, there’s a rubber-flap that covers two USB-A outputs and one USB-C PD input/output. However, the PD charging port is only rated for 18W output, which isn’t too bad, but it’s the slowest out of all the options we’ve discussed – barely.

The opposite side houses two LEDs that provide a bright flashlight. In addition, the opposite side to the solar panel supports wireless charging. These are both pretty cool extras, but not entirely necessary for the Steam Deck. Regardless, it’s even water-resistant. However, at 7.3″ long, 4.6 wide, 1.4″ thick and 15.8 ounces (448 grams), it’s a bit bulkier than other power banks. But with a capacity of 26,800 mAh, it’s capable of re-charging the Steam Deck 4-5 times (if you don’t accidently leave the flashlight turned on).

Capacity: 26,800 mAh
Size: 7.3″ x 4.8″ x 1.4″
Power Output 18W Power Delivery

What We Liked

• Tons of extra features.
• Feels very durable.
• Solar panel keeps it charged-up when not in use.

What We Didn’t Like

• A bit bulkier than average.
• Extra features are overkill for Steam Deck.
• Tacky color scheme.

Which Steam Deck Power Bank is Best?

As you can see, there are several great options when trying to select the best Steam Deck power bank for portable charging. Which one is the best? It really depends on what you’re looking for.

If money is no limit, we highly recommend splurging for the Crave Plus PRO. Although it’s the most expensive, it’s very well-made, visibly attractive and provides a 20,000 mAh capacity, with a fast-charging 45W PD output. It’s a high-end option, so we know it’s not going to be everyone’s top choice.

For an all-around excellent option, look no further than the Anker PowerCore Essential. It has the same 20,000 mAh capacity while providing 20W PD output. While it isn’t the fastest charger, it’s fairly priced and sleek. We love the rugged exterior finish and simplicity it provides. It’s compact, capable and backed by an 18-month warranty.

Another great choice is the Zendure X5. This is a 15,000 mAh power bank that’s incredibly compact. With a 45W PD output, it’s also one of the fastest. We really weren’t a fan of the exterior, but as far as specs go, the X5 is fantastic in most regards.

If you’re on a budget or simply don’t want to spend much, we recommend checking out the INIU Portable Charger. At first glance, you’ll notice the built-in screen. It’s a cool feature and offers a visible indication to the remaining battery life. With a 20,000 mAh capacity and 20W PD output, it’s also quite capable. The only real drawback is the build quality. It feels a bit cheap, but that’s because it is! Additionally, it shocked us when we found out that it was backed by a 3 year warranty.

Lastly, we took a look at the Hiluckey Solar Charger Power Bank. It’s got just about everything you could ever need, and more. Joking, but in all seriousness, it’s packed to the brim with features. A built-in solar panel is just the beginning. It even has a wireless charger and incredibly bright flashlight. Is it overkill for the Steam Deck? Of course. But it’s pretty ingenious! Unfortunately, however, it’s the slowest charger on our list, considering its 18W PD output. On the contrary, it has the highest capacity, but it’s also the bulkiest.

Hmm… decisions, decisions… Which Steam Deck power bank will you pick? Let us know by dropping a comment below. While you’re at it, be sure to check out our recommendations for the Best Steam Deck Screen Protectors that we published last month!