The NITECORE Carbo 20000 power bank redefines portable charging. This compact powerhouse packs a 20,000mAh battery into a surprisingly small and lightweight package, making it the perfect travel companion. Its sleek, carbon fiber reinforced polymer shell not only looks great but also provides exceptional durability, surviving the rigors of everyday use and travel adventures. Forget bulky, uncomfortable power banks; the Carbo 20000 boasts rounded edges for a comfortable grip and a seamless design that eliminates weak points.Featuring a USB-A and USB-C port, it delivers fast charging capabilities while maintaining a compact footprint. Experience the convenience of a power bank that easily slips into your pocket or bag without adding unnecessary weight or bulk. This review will delve into the Carbo 20000’s performance, features, and compare it to competitors, helping you decide if this remarkably portable power bank is the right fit for your needs.
Pros And Cons
- Rounded edges, more comfortable to hold.
- Carbon fiber reinforced poly polymer shell; durable, no seams.
- Small and lightweight for a 20,000 milliamp battery bank.
- Low power mode for charging sensitive devices.
- Includes a power button indicating charge level.
- Nice aesthetic design.
- Only 20 watts of total output; fast charging not possible when charging two devices simultaneously.
- More expensive than the Nightcore NB 20,000.
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Design and Build Quality
The NITECORE Carbo 20000 boasts a significant improvement over its NB series predecessors with its rounded edges. This subtle change makes it considerably more comfortable to hold, especially during extended periods of use or while traveling.
Its carbon fiber reinforced polymer shell is a standout feature, providing a robust and durable outer layer. The five-sided design, resembling a protective cup, is both aesthetically pleasing and practically beneficial, eliminating seams that could be potential weak points.
During my month-long test, the battery bank endured rough handling during bike rides and hikes without any damage or visible wear. The seamless construction contributes greatly to its impressive resilience.
Performance and Features
The 20,000 mAh capacity provides ample power for multiple charges of smaller devices, while larger devices may require just one full charge depending on power consumption. The battery performed as expected, consistent with other 20,000 mAh power banks tested.
The power button conveniently displays the remaining charge level, with four LEDs indicating the approximate percentage. A low-power mode, activated by holding the button, provides a gentle charging option for sensitive devices such as AirPods.
The unit includes a USB-A and USB-C port. The USB-C port supports 18W input and 20W output, while the USB-A port offers 18W output. Simultaneous charging from both ports shares the 20W total output, reducing charging speeds; single-port charging allows for fast-charging capabilities.
Size, Weight, and Portability
The NITECORE Carbo 20000 is impressively compact. At 4.88 x 2.36 x 0.86 inches (12.4 x 6 x 2.2 cm), it fits comfortably in the palm of the hand and easily slips into most pockets.
While the thickness might be noticeable in tighter-fitting clothing, the rounded edges prevent discomfort or damage to clothing. Its lightweight design, 10.42 oz (295g), further enhances portability.
The small size makes it ideal for travel, easily fitting into tech pouches, daypacks, or slings without adding significant bulk or weight.
Comparison with Other Power Banks
Compared to the NITECORE NB 20000, the Carbo 20000 is 91% of the weight and 93% of the volume, offering a more compact design but at the cost of reduced ports and output capacity.
The NB 20000, with four ports and a 40W USB-C port, offers greater charging versatility and potential for faster charging of laptops. However, the Carbo 20000 is smaller and generally cheaper.
A comparison with an Anker power bank highlights the trade-off between size and output. While the Anker model boasts more power and features, its larger size diminishes portability.
Conclusion
The NITECORE Carbo 20000 excels in portability and design, boasting a compact size and comfortable rounded edges. Its build quality is top-notch, providing robust protection against the wear and tear of everyday use.
However, its limited port selection and lower total wattage output compromise its versatility compared to larger power banks. The trade-off is worthwhile for users who prioritize portability and compactness above all else.
Whether or not it's the right choice depends on individual needs and priorities. If compact size and superior build quality are paramount, the NITECORE Carbo 20000 is a great option. For users needing more charging ports and higher output, larger power banks may be more suitable.