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I tested the Anker 165W 25K Power Bank during my recent trip to manage my laptop and phone on long flights. I wanted a dependable charger with enough wattage for a MacBook Air and an iPhone. I also needed a quick charging solution between layovers. This power bank delivered strong charging speeds and convenient cable storage, though it had a few quirks worth noting. In this post, I share my experiences, real-world numbers, and tips for potential buyers.
The Anker 165W 25K Power Bank has a 25,000mAh capacity. It includes two integrated USB-C cables and one USB-C port plus one USB-A port for charging multiple devices. The brand advertises a total output of 165W, which can power two laptops at once if the battery level is above 80%. The unit weighs 1.31 pounds (about 595g), which is heavier than basic USB-C chargers, but this design supports advanced charging needs. As a frequent traveler, I appreciated the built-in cables that reduce extra clutter in my backpack.
First Impressions
I liked the rubberized base, which helped keep the power bank in place on airplane tray tables. The retractable cable extended about 2.3 feet, making it easy to lay the power bank next to a laptop. The shorter cable doubles as a lanyard-style strap, though it sometimes detached from the main body. The LCD display showed battery level, power output, and temperature warnings. I found the display helpful, but the screen’s small size required a closer look to see accurate percentage details.
Key Features and Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 25,000mAh (90Wh) – FAA-approved for carry-on |
| Ports | Two built-in USB-C cables, one additional USB-C port, one USB-A port |
| Max Output | 165W total (100W per port above 80% battery) |
| Weight | 1.31 lbs / 595g |
| Input | 100W max via USB-C |
| Warranty | 30-day refund + lifetime technical support |
Capacity in Real Use
The official rating is 25,000mAh, which translates to about 90Wh of total energy. My tests showed it retained around 87% of its rated capacity under normal loads (approximately 73.5Wh–78.67Wh). This was enough for about one full charge of a 16-inch MacBook Pro or around 1.3 charges of a 13-inch MacBook Air M3. It also provided many phone charges. In my case, I charged my iPhone about three times while still having enough juice for my laptop’s partial top-off.
Charging Performance
Dual Laptop Charging
Anker promotes the ability to charge two laptops simultaneously at 100W each. This works only if the battery is above 80%. Below that level, the total output drops to 100W. Once the battery goes below 25%, the power bank limits output further (60W + 30W). In my tests, I used a laptop and a tablet together. I noticed a slowdown in total power output once the battery dropped below 50%. This caused a slight increase in charging time for the laptop.
Heat Management
The device warms up during sustained high output. I observed heating in moderate room temperatures. If the power bank senses overheating, it throttles the wattage. It prioritizes device protection, which is good for safety but reduces speed. I experienced a few instances where charging output declined faster than expected on a warm day, suggesting the built-in safety system stepped in. I found this acceptable, but it may affect users who need constant max wattage.
Recharge Time
You need a compatible charger to recharge the power bank at 100W. The box does not include a 100W brick. I used a 65W charger, and it took around 1 hour 55 minutes to go from empty to full. The charging rate began at 95W but dropped to around 50W halfway through. Even with a 65W brick, I reached a similar charge time due to throttling logic.
Design Advantages
Integrated Cables
Two built-in USB-C cables set this power bank apart. One is retractable (2.3 ft) for easy organization, while the other works as a short strap (about 1 ft). Anker rates these cables for 17,000+ bends, which suggests good durability. After a few weeks of normal use, the retractable cable remained secure, and the shorter cable stayed functional without visible wear.
LCD Display
A small screen provides real-time data about battery percentage, wattage output, and temperature warnings. During use, I quickly checked if the power bank was giving me the expected wattage. The text is small, but it saved me from guessing. I often mention that added screens can drain power, though the effect here seemed minimal.
TSA Compliance
Its 90Wh capacity meets standard carry-on rules. I brought it through airport security without issue. This is a plus for travelers who carry laptops and phones.
Potential Drawbacks
Power Throttling
The main downside I noticed is the performance drop below certain battery levels. Anker’s marketing might lead some to assume 165W is available at all times, but real tests show charging speed dips when the battery falls. If you plan to rely on consistent 100W or 165W output, the battery state matters.
Heating Concerns
Heat buildup occurred when I pushed the bank to full output for extended periods. This can cause throttling. It did not reach dangerous levels, but it slowed the charging rate. If you use it in a cooler spot or keep it in open space, you can reduce the chance of overheating.
Lanyard Cable Stability
The short cable doubles as a strap. It sometimes disconnected if I carried the power bank by that cable for long walks. This was a mild annoyance.
No Included 100W Charger
You must supply your own charger if you want the fastest recharge time. This adds to the total cost if you do not own a compatible USB-C charger.
Personal Experience on the Road
I used the Anker 165W 25K at an airport lounge to top off my phone and friend’s laptop. The built-in cables saved time because we did not scramble for multiple cords. The display showed our combined draw at about 90W total. After an hour, the power bank’s level dropped from 100% to about 68%. It did warm up, though not to the point of concern.
On the flight, I charged my MacBook Air from 20% to 90% in about an hour. The bank still held enough energy for phone charges. Once the battery dropped near 30%, I noticed a slight slowdown. Overall, it delivered on cable convenience and had more than enough power for a few devices.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros
- Dual integrated USB-C cables: Long (2.3 ft) retractable and short (1 ft) strap for flexibility
- High peak output (165W): Supports dual-laptop charging above 80% battery
- Large 25,000mAh capacity: Enough for a MacBook Pro or multiple phone charges
- Multiple ports: Built-in cables plus an extra USB-C and USB-A
- Smart LCD: Shows battery data and alerts
- TSA-approved: 90Wh rating for air travel
Cons
- Output throttling: Lower wattage when battery falls below 80%, then more reduction below 25%
- Heat management limits: Overheating can trigger power drops
- No 100W charger in box: You may need to buy a separate power brick
- Short lanyard cable: Sometimes detaches if used as a carrying handle
- Small display: The tiny screen can be hard to read at a glance
Should You Buy It?
| Buy If You… | Avoid If You… |
|---|---|
| Need to charge laptops and phones on trips | Want a steady 165W output at all charge levels |
| Value having built-in cables for fewer cords | Prefer a lighter, more compact unit |
| Fly frequently and need FAA-approved power | Have a strict budget under $80 |
This power bank is good for frequent travelers who need to charge multiple devices. The built-in cables and high output above 80% battery level make it appealing for people who require a quick boost. The overall weight and the reduced wattage at lower battery levels may deter those who want a lighter solution or consistent maximum power.
Price Check
- Singapore: SGD 159.90 on the official Anker SG store
- US: $89.99 with certain promotions
- UK: £69.99 with a discount
These prices vary by region and may change during sales.
Common Questions
Q: Can it charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro fully?
A: Yes, but you get around one full charge. A 13-inch MacBook Air gets closer to 1.3 charges.
Q: Are the built-in cables strong?
A: They are rated for 17,000+ bends. My short trial did not reveal any fraying or issues.
Q: How long does it take to recharge the power bank?
A: About 1 hour 55 minutes with a 65W or 100W brick, due to the bank’s throttling approach.
Q: Is it safe to carry on flights?
A: Yes. The 25,000mAh (90Wh) capacity meets standard FAA allowances for carry-on batteries.
Q: Is there a warranty?
A: Anker offers a 30-day return period plus lifetime technical support.
Final Verdict
The Anker 165W 25K Power Bank stands out with strong output, large capacity, and built-in cables. In practical usage, it supplies fast charging for phones, tablets, and laptops, especially above 80% battery. It adjusts output below that mark to prevent overheating and manage battery health. The design feels rugged, though the short cable can unclip.
This power bank meets the needs of travelers and multi-device users who place value on convenience and efficiency. If you need absolute consistency at 165W, the power throttling may disappoint. For me, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, and I plan to keep it in my backpack for daily commutes and flights.
Disclaimer: Prices and specifications mentioned in this post may change over time. Always check official sources for up-to-date information.
