Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD: Your Laptop’s Lifeline (Reviewed)
In a world increasingly reliant on mobile devices, power banks have evolved from mere phone chargers to essential accessories capable of juicing up everything from tablets to laptops. Enter the Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD. This isn’t your average pocket-sized power bank; it’s a high-capacity, power-delivery behemoth designed to keep your most demanding gadgets running all day long. But does it live up to the hype, and more importantly, is it worth the investment? Let’s dive in.
The first thing you notice about the PowerCore+ 26800 PD is its sheer size. It’s hefty, no doubt, but that bulk translates directly into battery capacity. We’re talking about enough juice to fully charge a MacBook Pro 13″ at least one and a half times, or an iPhone 14 around six times. The 45W Power Delivery output is a game-changer, allowing you to fast-charge compatible laptops and tablets at speeds comparable to their wall chargers. No more agonizingly slow trickle charges when you’re on the go.
Anker’s build quality is, as always, excellent. The PowerCore+ boasts a sturdy matte finish that feels premium and resists fingerprints admirably. The LED indicator lights provide a clear and concise visual representation of the remaining battery life, and the included wall charger is a welcome addition – one less thing to buy separately. The PowerCore+ 26800 PD also includes a USB-C to USB-C cable, which is a welcome addition.
Performance-wise, the PowerCore+ delivers on its promises. We tested it extensively with a variety of devices, including a Dell XPS 13, an iPad Pro, and various smartphones. Charging speeds were consistently impressive, and the power bank never struggled to maintain a stable output. The inclusion of Power Delivery over USB-C ensures future compatibility as more devices adopt this charging standard.
However, the PowerCore+ isn’t without its drawbacks. Its size and weight make it less than ideal for everyday carry. It’s definitely better suited for travel, long commutes, or situations where access to a wall outlet is limited. Charging the power bank itself also takes a significant amount of time, even with the included charger. Expect a full charge from empty to take around 3-4 hours. Finally, while the included charger is appreciated, it would have been nice to see GaN technology incorporated for a more compact design.
Where to Buy:
Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 90%
- Design: 92%
- Performance: 93%
- Quality: 91%
- Popularity: 92%
Top Pros
- ✅ The high capacity is sufficient for multiple charges for phones and laptops.
- ✅ The 45W USB-C PD output offers rapid charging for compatible devices.
- ✅ The robust build quality ensures durability and long-term use.
Key Cons
- ❌ Its considerable size and weight make it less portable for daily carry.
- ❌ The charging time for the power bank itself is relatively lengthy.
- ❌ While functional, the design is somewhat utilitarian and lacks visual flair.
- …
