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Anker - USB Portable Powerbank - Power Core 10400 - cheap as it’s slow 12 watts

Gear Review

New Anker Power Core 10400

A budget-friendly solution for everyday portable charging

10.4
Capacity (Ah)
12
Max Output (Watts)
~$20
Price
Section I

Overview of the Power Core 10400

After my previous 8 and 10 amp power banks reached the end of their lives, I decided it was time for an upgrade. I have been wanting to add an Anker device to my tech lineup for a while, and this felt like the perfect opportunity to make the switch to the Anker Power Core 10400.

 

Performance and Limitations

While the $20 price point is certainly attractive, it is important to note that this is an older model in the Anker lineup. Its primary limitation is the charging speed.

  • Max Output — 12 watts, which is sufficient for smaller accessories but significantly slower than the 15-45 watt fast chargers modern smartphones require.
  • Charging Speed — Because of the 12-watt ceiling, this device can take a long time to charge larger, power-hungry handsets.
  • Portability — Despite the wattage drawbacks, the unit offers a great balance of capacity relative to its physical weight and size.
If you can snag this for $20 or less, it’s worth it. Otherwise, I recommend spending a bit more for a faster charging model.
Comparison Data

To help you decide if this model fits your needs, here is how it stacks up against modern alternatives.

FeatureAnker Power Core 10400Modern Fast Chargers
Output (Watts)12W24W+
Output (Amps)Lower4.8A or higher
Best ForSmaller DevicesModern Smartphones
Choose your charging gear based on your device's power requirements to avoid frustration.

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