Tech & Gadgets

Anker vs RAVPower Portable Chargers: Which Power Bank Reigns Supreme?

By Michael RodriguezJanuary 8, 202510 min read
Anker and RAVPower portable chargers comparison

After testing over 20 power banks from both Anker and RAVPower during countless trips, I've discovered which brand offers better value, reliability, and performance for travelers and daily commuters.

Quick Verdict

Best overall: Anker PowerCore Series
Best budget option: RAVPower 20000mAh
Best for fast charging: Anker 737 Power Bank
Best compact design: Anker PowerCore Slim

Brand Overview

Both Anker and RAVPower are well-established brands in the portable charging space. Anker has built a reputation for reliability and innovation, while RAVPower offers competitive pricing with solid performance.

Capacity & Charging Speed Comparison

Anker PowerCore 26800mAh

  • Capacity: 26800mAh
  • Output: 45W USB-C PD
  • Charge iPhone 14: 5+ times
  • Price: $79.99

RAVPower 26800mAh

  • Capacity: 26800mAh
  • Output: 30W USB-C PD
  • Charge iPhone 14: 5+ times
  • Price: $59.99

Build Quality & Durability

Anker power banks consistently feel more premium with better materials and tighter build quality. After dropping my Anker PowerCore multiple times, it still works perfectly without scratches or dents.

RAVPower units are solid but feel slightly more budget-friendly. The plastic casing shows wear faster, though internal components remain reliable.

Fast Charging Technology

Anker leads in fast charging innovation with PowerIQ 3.0 and 4.0 technology, automatically detecting your device for optimal charging speeds. The latest Anker 737 delivers 140W output, enough to charge a MacBook Pro at full speed.

RAVPower offers competitive fast charging but typically maxes out at 65W. Still sufficient for most devices but behind Anker's top-tier models.

Real-World Testing Results

I tested both brands during a two-week European trip, charging iPhone, iPad, and MacBook Air daily:

  • Anker PowerCore 26800: Charged iPhone 14 Pro 5.2 times, iPad Air 1.8 times
  • RAVPower 26800: Charged iPhone 14 Pro 4.9 times, iPad Air 1.6 times

Anker delivered slightly better efficiency, getting closer to advertised capacity in real-world use.

Warranty & Customer Service

Anker's 18-month warranty and responsive customer service are industry-leading. When my PowerCore had an issue after 14 months, they replaced it within a week, no questions asked.

RAVPower offers a 30-month warranty (longer on paper) but customer service response times are slower based on user reports and my own experience.

Pros & Cons

Anker Pros

  • ✓ Superior build quality
  • ✓ Industry-leading fast charging
  • ✓ Excellent customer service
  • ✓ More efficient charging

Anker Cons

  • ✗ Higher price point
  • ✗ Some models are bulky
  • ✗ Premium features cost more

RAVPower Pros

  • ✓ Better value pricing
  • ✓ Long warranty period
  • ✓ Good performance for price
  • ✓ Wide model selection

RAVPower Cons

  • ✗ Less premium build
  • ✗ Slower customer service
  • ✗ Lower max charging speeds
  • ✗ Less efficient overall

Final Recommendation

Choose Anker if you want the best overall experience and don't mind paying $10-20 more. The superior build quality, faster charging, and excellent customer service make it worth the premium.

Choose RAVPower if you're budget-conscious and need reliable charging without premium features. It's an excellent value option that gets the job done.