This ultra-slim power bank I tested is a must-have travel device (and it’s surprisingly cheap)

ZDNET Key Takeaways

• He Auskang 5,000 mAh external battery It is available on Amazon for $21.
• It is small and thin, but robust, and delivers everything it promises.
• I wish it could be recharged via the built-in USB-C port.

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I like big power banks – there’s something about larger devices that’s reassuring with all the power they can pack. But I’m also well aware that the larger the power bank, the more likely it is to lag behind, leaving my devices without those sweet electrons.

Also: The best power banks you can buy: tested by experts

I’ve tried portable chargers of all sizes, but I recently had the opportunity to get my hands on the Auskang 5,000 mAh external batteryan ultra-thin device that is about the same thickness as a stack of coins and it did not disappoint.

See on Amazon

Auskang 5000mAh Power Bank Technical Specifications

• Ability: 5,000 mAh
• Departures:
  Built-in USB-C cable: 5V⎓2.1A max.
  USB-C port: 5V⎓2.1A max.
• Input:
  USB-C port: 5V⎓1.5A max.
• Recharge time: 3.5 hours at 5V⎓1.5A
• Protections: Overcharge, over discharge, over voltage, over current and short circuits
• Battery Type: Li-polymer
• Shell: 304 stainless steel
• Size: 124x66x6.8mm
• Weight: 130g
• Finishes: Beige, Black, Blue, Pink

The first thing that catches your attention about this power bank is how thin it is. It’s really thin, much thinner than my iPhone and about the thickness of a few credit cards or a few coins.

When I first saw it, I thought it might be plastic and was worried the battery might bend and catch fire in my pocket. Luckily, it’s all encased in a stainless steel casing that has so far withstood everything I’ve thrown at it.

Sure, I’m sure I could fold it in half if I tried, but the same goes for my phone or tablet. What matters is that it is strong enough to withstand everyday life.

Also: This powerful power bank is perfect if you charge many devices

The power bank has all the basics you’d expect: there’s a power button, four LEDs that show current charge levels, and a USB-C port that can charge devices and recharge the power bank.

It also features a USB-C connector built into a short flexible cable for charging any device with a USB-C port. This brilliant twist adds versatility, meaning you don’t need to carry an extra cable or rely on wireless charging. Do you prefer a Lightning connector instead of USB-C? No problem! There is a version available with just that.

The two outputs allow the power bank to charge two devices simultaneously or charge while charging another device. This makes it incredibly useful for those times when you need reliable power without the bulk.

I put this power bank through the wringer and it passed all my tests with flying colors. The power outputs and inputs match the spec sheet and the power bank can operate at full capacity for extended periods without overheating.

Also: How we test portable power plants at ZDNET in 2024

And perhaps most importantly, the success of this power bank has cured me of the need to always carry the biggest one I can find. It offers 5,000 mAh capacity, which is not a enormous quantity, but it is enough to charge a modern smartphone once again. If you need more than that, you’ll need larger pockets for a larger power bank or access to AC power.

ZDNET Buying Tips

He Auskang 5000 mAh external battery It’s perfect to use on the go with your smartphone. It’s small, lightweight, and packs a big punch. The only criticism I have is that it can’t be charged with the built-in USB-C cable; You will need a separate cable for that. While the power bank includes a cable, it’s yet another item to carry, which slightly defeats the purpose of traveling light. Think of this power bank as a single use case.

Overall, for around $20, the Auskang offers a lot of bang for your buck. If you’re looking for something small, thin, and durable enough to survive in a pocket or bag, it’s a great buy.