The Gaming Blog
The Gaming Blog
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.
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:
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.
Not sure what sets an ordinary power bank apart from one suited for gaming?
Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:
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.
The more wattage a power bank can output, the better it can support heavy-duty devices:
Look for USB-C Power Delivery (PD) support—the fast, efficient charging standard.
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.
This feature lets you charge your power bank while it charges your device. It’s handy during hotel stays or airport layovers.
Look for a compact design if you’re travelling light, and choose rugged or splash-resistant models for outdoor gaming sessions.
Let’s dive into the genuine contenders. These power banks combine capacity, power, and reliability, making them ideal companions for gamers on the move.
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:
Why gamers love it: It’s incredibly reliable and fast, perfect for those needing serious charging muscle.
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:
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.
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:
Why it’s popular: It offers solid performance without breaking the bank.
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:
Great for: Competitive gamers needing stable setups in remote locations.
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:
Use case: Tom, a game developer, uses the Storm² at expos to power his demo laptop and portable projector.
Not everyone needs laptop-level charging. If your gaming revolves around Switch, Steam Deck, or mobile devices, these options hit the sweet spot.
Bonus tip: If flying, ensure your power bank is under 27,000mAh or 100Wh, the TSA and airline safety limit.
Don’t forget smaller gadgets like wireless controllers, headsets, or cooling fans. Here are compact power banks that cater to these:
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.
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.
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.
Buying the best tech isn’t enough—you must use it smartly. Here’s how:
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.