POWER BANK 18400mAh Review: Fast Charging, Compact Design, But Is the Capacity Real?

This review examines the 18400mAh power bank, focusing on its performance, features, and design. We delve into the claims of fast 65W charging and its purported ability to charge multiple devices, including a MacBook Pro. Initial impressions centered on its surprisingly compact size and premium build quality, aligning with the manufacturer's specifications regarding weight and packaging. The integrated USB-C and iPhone cables add to its convenience.Our testing explored the power bank's real-world capacity versus its advertised 18400mAh. We assessed charging speeds, both with fast charging and standard charging, and evaluated the number of full phone charges achievable. The review concludes with an overall assessment of the power bank's pros and cons, providing readers with a balanced perspective on its functionality, practicality, and value, acknowledging the discrepancy between advertised and actual battery capacity.

Pros And Cons

18,400 mAh External Battery
  • Compact size
  • 18,400 mAh capacity (though actual capacity is lower)
  • Fast charging at 65W
  • Integrated cables (USB-C and USB-A)
  • Four output ports
  • Good design and build quality
  • Suitable for airplane cabins
  • Actual capacity significantly lower than advertised (around 14,000 mAh)
  • Instructions primarily in English, with only some safety information in Spanish
  • Lacks a carrying case
  • Large screen area not fully utilized
  • Heavy (approximately 400g)
  • Design not very ergonomic

Read more: OUKITEL P2001 PLUS Review: Best Budget Portable Power Station?

Unboxing and First Impressions

The package arrived sealed, promising a premium feel. Opening the box revealed the power bank itself, surprisingly compact given its advertised 18,400mAh capacity. The initial weight check indicated around 400 grams, aligning with the seller's specifications. The overall impression was one of a well-designed and portable device.

Sealed power bank box
Sealed power bank box
Compact power bank in hand
Compact power bank in hand

Features and Specifications

This power bank boasts a claimed 18,400mAh capacity, enough to charge three Samsung Galaxy S23 phones or a 16-inch MacBook Pro with some power to spare. Fast charging at 65W is a key feature, allowing for a 50% charge on the MacBook Pro in approximately 45 minutes. Integrated cables for both USB-C and iPhone devices are conveniently stored within the power bank's casing. Additional USB-A and USB-C ports provide versatility for multiple device charging.

Power bank with 18400mAh capacity displayed
Power bank with 18400mAh capacity displayed

The power bank has protective features against short circuits and overloads. The included cables are approximately 20cm long which provide ample reach for charging various devices.

Multiple charging ports
Multiple charging ports

Testing and Real-World Performance

The power bank arrived with a 73% charge. During testing, it successfully charged my phone (approximately 5000mAh battery) three times, leaving roughly 5% of battery life in the phone each time as a precaution against completely draining the phone's battery. After the third charge, the power bank indicated 0%, which further decreased to 10% after attempting another partial charge. This suggests a real-world capacity closer to 14,000mAh, significantly less than the advertised 18,400mAh.

Power bank showing 73% charge
Power bank showing 73% charge

The charging speed using fast charging was roughly the same as using a wall outlet, indicating genuine fast charging capabilities.

Charging time display
Charging time display

Pros, Cons, and Final Verdict

The power bank's compact design, integrated cables, multiple charging ports (including USB-C), and genuine fast charging at 65W are significant advantages. The build quality is excellent, and the overall aesthetic is pleasing. However, the real-world capacity falls considerably short of the advertised 18,400mAh. The lack of a carrying case is also a minor drawback.

Power bank showing multiple ports and design
Power bank showing multiple ports and design

Despite the lower-than-advertised capacity, the power bank offers a considerable amount of charge. It's still a good option for those seeking a compact and versatile portable charger, but buyers should be aware of the discrepancy between advertised and actual capacity. I would recommend this product overall, but with the caveat of the reduced capacity.

Final assessment of the power bank
Final assessment of the power bank