Anker PowerCore 10000 Redux review
The PowerCore 10000 Redux is a mini power bank, designed to be easily transportable, thanks to its pill-like shape and additional carrying strap. Despite the small size, it has a large 10,000mAh capacity, as well as a 25W maximum output. There are two USB ports, one type C and one type A, giving you multiple charging options. There’s no wireless charging feature, though.
The PowerCore 10000 Redux’s USB-C port utilizes Anker’s PowerIQ 3.0 charging technology. Meanwhile, the USB-A port is stuck with the first generation of this standard, which only allows up to 12W of charging power.
Charging a Google Pixel 7a from half to full power using the type-C port took just over an hour, which is a solid performance. The PowerCore 10000 Redux only lost one of its four LEDs on the battery level indicator, which meant it had between 50-75% left in the tank, so you should get about 3-4 charges from it.
USB-A charging, meanwhile, took about an hour and a half – lagging behind what some of the best power banks can offer – but all four LEDs remained lit upon completion, indicating a battery level of between 75%-100%. Charging the power bank itself took about 2 hours and 40 minutes.
The PowerCore 10000 Redux also has Anker’s Trickle Charging mode, which is designed for charging devices with a low power draw (measured in amps), such as earbuds. When activated – which simply requires pressing the main button twice – the PowerCore 10000 Redux will only provide a low charge to your device.
The supplied USB-C cable comes with a USB-A adapter – attached rather conveniently to one end of the cable itself – which is a thoughtful and welcome bonus, saving you the hassle of having to remember to pack multiple cables for all your devices.
Additionally, it comes with a useful carrying handle and pouch, both of which feel well-made and soft to the touch. The handle is easy to attach and remove, and the material resembles a soft, thick shoelace. An adjustable tab allows you to alter the size of the loop, which is another considerate touch.
It’s a shame that the PowerCore 10000 Redux misses out on wireless charging, but the small form factor is practical, although it’s better carried in your bag rather than your pocket given its thickness. The carrying strap does add to its portability, though, and combined with the large battery capacity, it makes for a great power bank to accompany you on your journeys.
Anker PowerCore 10000 Redux review: Price & specs
Should I buy the Anker PowerCore 10000 Redux?
Buy it if…
You want a simple power bank
This is a no-fuss power bank: just plug and go. Trickle Charge is about the only extra feature.
You want something compact
The shape of the PowerCore 10000 Redux means stowing it away in your bag is easy. The carrying strap also adds to its traveling convenience.
Don't buy it if…
You want something thin
Although it’s not wide, the PowerCore 10000 Redux is thick, which means putting it in your pocket isn’t as practical as it is with flatter power banks.
You want wireless charging
There’s no wireless charging capability on the PowerCore 10000 Redux, so you’ll always need to take the included cable – with its attached USB-C-to-A adapter – with you.
Anker PowerCore 10000 Redux review: Also consider
Anker 621 Magnetic Battery (MagGo)
If you want something light and simple, then the Anker 621 is a great alternative. It only has one port (USB-C), but it does feature MagSafe wireless charging, great if you're an iPhone owner (it may also work on Androids with MagSafe compatible cases). The capacity is half that of the PowerCore, but it's thin enough to carry around in your pocket – with or without your phone attached.View Deal
