Best Budget Power Banks with USB C Output

If you're hunting for a reliable yet affordable power bank that actually delivers on its promises, you’re not alone. As someone who’s tested over 30 portable chargers in the last two years—from Amazon bestsellers to niche tech brands—I’ve seen it all: bloated claims, fake capacity, and painfully slow charging. But after deep-diving into specs, real-world performance, and user feedback, I’ve narrowed down the best budget power banks with USB C output that won’t break the bank or your trust.

Let’s cut through the noise. The key isn’t just finding a low price—it’s balancing cost, capacity, and modern features like USB-C input/output. Bonus points if it can charge your phone quickly. Spoiler: many under $20 claim 20,000mAh but use outdated tech and lack proper safety certifications.

Here’s a quick comparison of top contenders based on real lab tests and daily use:

From this lineup, the Anker PowerCore 10000 PD stands out. Why? It’s from a brand with a decade-long reputation, supports USB-C Power Delivery (PD), and charges an iPhone 14 from 0% to 60% in just 30 minutes. Plus, it’s compact—fits in your pocket. Anker also includes surge protection and temperature control, which cheaper clones often skip.

The Baseus Blade is a dark horse. At $22.50, it offers 20W USB-C output—faster than most in this range—and has a sleek aluminum body. Real users report consistent performance after 6+ months of daily use. If you’re using a USB-C laptop like a MacBook Air or iPad, this one can give you a quick top-up in a pinch.

But beware: some brands inflate mAh ratings. A true 10,000mAh lithium-polymer cell delivers about 6,000–7,000 usable mAh due to voltage conversion loss. So when a $15 power bank claims 20,000mAh, be skeptical. Stick to brands with UL or CE certification.

In short, the best budget power banks with USB C output aren’t always the cheapest. They balance speed, safety, and real capacity. For most people, I’d recommend starting with the Anker PowerCore 10000 PD—it’s the gold standard for a reason.