Power Banks That Can Handle Gaming Devices
Ever been deep into a boss fight or exploring a vast open-world game when—bam—your device goes dark? Whether on a long-haul flight, camping off-grid, or simply away from a socket for too long, gaming without consistent power is more than frustrating. It’s disruptive.
And that’s where the right power bank for gaming steps in.
As portable consoles and cloud-based gaming become the norm, having a reliable gaming battery backup is no longer a luxury—it’s essential. But not all portable chargers are created equal. Some are better suited for casual phone charging, while others are built to keep your Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, or gaming laptop juiced up and ready for action.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best portable chargers for consoles, the features to look out for, and real-world examples of power banks that won’t let you down in the heat of the game.
Why Gamers Need Special Power Banks
Gaming devices are power-hungry by design. Unlike smartphones, they run demanding graphics, maintain persistent internet connections, and often require high-wattage charging. That means:
- Higher power output is essential to avoid slow or ineffective charging.
- Larger capacity is needed to keep devices going through long sessions.
- Fast-charging support ensures minimal downtime between battles or races.
Imagine trying to charge your Steam Deck with a basic phone power bank. It might trickle-charge at best—or worse, the device could still lose charge faster than it’s being replenished. That’s why selecting a gaming-capable power bank is a game-changer.
Key Features to Look for in a Power Bank for Gaming
Not sure what sets an ordinary power bank apart from one suited for gaming?
Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:
1. High Capacity (20,000mAh or more)
More capacity means more playtime. If you’re powering devices like the Nintendo Switch or gaming smartphones, aim for at least 20,000mAh. For gaming laptops, 30,000mAh+ is recommended.
2. High Power Output (18W to 100W)
The more wattage a power bank can output, the better it can support heavy-duty devices:
- Phones: 18W+
- Nintendo Switch: 18–30W
- Steam Deck: 45W+
- Gaming laptops: 60–100W
Look for USB-C Power Delivery (PD) support—the fast, efficient charging standard.
3. Multiple Output Ports
If you’re charging multiple devices at once—say, your console and wireless headset—go for a power bank with at least two or three outputs, ideally a mix of USB-C and USB-A.
4. Pass-Through Charging
This feature lets you charge your power bank while it charges your device. It’s handy during hotel stays or airport layovers.
5. Durability and Portability
Look for a compact design if you’re travelling light, and choose rugged or splash-resistant models for outdoor gaming sessions.
Top Power Banks for Gaming Devices (2025 Picks)
Let’s dive into the genuine contenders. These power banks combine capacity, power, and reliability, making them ideal companions for gamers on the move.
Anker PowerCore III Elite 25600 87W
Best for: Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, and gaming laptops
This power bank offers a massive 25,600mAh battery and delivers up to 87W output, enough to charge a MacBook Pro or Steam Deck at full speed.
Key features:
- USB-C Power Delivery (87W)
- Two USB-A ports for extra devices
- Fast-charging support for Switch and Steam Deck
Why gamers love it: It’s incredibly reliable and fast, perfect for those needing serious charging muscle.
Baseus Blade 100W 20,000mAh Power Bank
Best for: Gaming laptops and high-wattage devices
Sleek, slim, and ultra-powerful, the Blade delivers 100W output via USB-C PD—ideal for high-performance devices.
Key features:
- Slim design fits in laptop bags
- Four ports (2 USB-C, 2 USB-A)
- Digital screen showing battery status
Real-world use: James, a digital nomad gamer, uses the Baseus Blade to power his ROG Flow laptop and Steam Deck on long train rides across Europe.
RavPower PD Pioneer 20000mAh 60W
Best for: Console gamers on a budget
Affordable and practical, the PD Pioneer delivers 60W over USB-C, enough for Nintendo Switch or smaller gaming laptops like the Surface Pro.
Key features:
- USB-C PD and Quick Charge 3.0 support
- Fast recharge time (less than 3 hours)
- Lightweight and travel-friendly
Why it’s popular: It offers solid performance without breaking the bank.
Mophie Powerstation Pro AC
Best for: Gamers who need AC output
Its AC power outlet sets this apart, making it versatile enough to power monitors or even routers for LAN setups.
Key features:
- 27,000mAh capacity
- AC port + USB-C and USB-A
- Rugged build with fabric exterior
Great for: Competitive gamers needing stable setups in remote locations.
Shargeek Storm² 25600mAh 100W Power Bank
Best for: Tech-savvy gamers who want total control
The standout feature is a transparent case with a smart display that shows real-time voltage, current, and temperature data.
Key features:
- USB-C PD 100W output
- Sleek, cyberpunk aesthetic
- Durable Li-polymer battery cells
Use case: Tom, a game developer, uses the Storm² at expos to power his demo laptop and portable projector.
Best Power Banks for Handheld Gaming Consoles
Not everyone needs laptop-level charging. If your gaming revolves around Switch, Steam Deck, or mobile devices, these options hit the sweet spot.
Anker 737 Power Bank (PowerCore 24K)
- 24,000mAh
- USB-C PD (140W total shared)
- Smart digital display
- Charge the Steam Deck and Switch fast
Omni Mobile 25600 Pro
- 100W USB-C
- Wireless charging pad included
- Multiple outputs
- Compact, airport-friendly size
Zendure SuperTank Pro
- 26,800mAh
- Four USB-C ports
- OLED screen
- Aircraft-safe battery
Bonus tip: If flying, ensure your power bank is under 27,000mAh or 100Wh, the TSA and airline safety limit.
Accessory Power Banks for Gaming Setups
Don’t forget smaller gadgets like wireless controllers, headsets, or cooling fans. Here are compact power banks that cater to these:
- Xiaomi Mi 10000mAh Pocket Edition – Great for headsets and phones.
- Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 PD – Lightweight and quick-charging for controllers.
- INIU 10500mAh USB-C – Includes torch feature for camping setups or dark environments.
Real-World Gaming Scenarios
Gaming in Airports
You’re stuck during a layover, and all the charging stations are taken. A high-capacity power bank lets you plug in your Nintendo Switch and keep exploring Hyrule uninterrupted.
Outdoor LAN Parties
Yes, they exist. Some competitive gamers run outdoor LAN sessions in campgrounds with Wi-Fi hotspots and portable monitors. With a power bank like the Mophie Powerstation Pro, they can power laptops, routers, and backup lights.
Long Commutes
Steam Deck owners on daily train commutes often need a top-up before reaching home. The Anker 737 Power Bank gives a full charge in less than 90 minutes, even while gaming.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Gaming Power Bank
Buying the best tech isn’t enough—you must use it smartly. Here’s how:
- Keep it fully charged before you head out.
- Use short, high-quality cables to minimise power loss.
- Turn off background apps or Wi-Fi if not needed to conserve device power.
- Store at moderate temperatures – heat shortens battery life.
- Charge multiple devices sequentially, not all at once, for faster individual charging.
Conclusion: Game Anytime, Anywhere
There’s a certain freedom in gaming on your terms—no wall sockets, no power constraints, just uninterrupted play wherever life takes you. Whether you’re a Switch player on the go, a Steam Deck enthusiast, or a laptop gamer setting up temporary battle stations, a dependable power bank for gaming is worth every penny.
The key is knowing what you need. Match the power output to your device, choose a capacity that suits your lifestyle, and go for trusted brands with solid reviews. From portable chargers for consoles to gaming battery backups with AC output, there’s an option out there ready to fuel your playtime.
