
Pocket-Sized Power: Anker’s Nano Power Bank – The $30 Lifesaver You Need?
Tired of your phone dying at the most inconvenient times? Anker's Nano Power Bank might be the solution you've been searching for. This tiny, affordable power bank has been a daily essential for many, including ZDNET's Sabrina Ortiz, for over a year. Is this the perfect portable charger for you?
Why is this power bank creating a buzz? Its compact size and convenient design address common portable charger woes. Let's delve into what makes it stand out.
Ortiz highlights several key features that make the Anker Nano a winner. First and foremost, its size is incredibly appealing. "The power bank puts the 'portable' in portable charger," she notes, comfortably fitting in a pocket or bag without adding significant weight. For a visual comparison, she even placed it next to her lipstick, demonstrating their remarkably similar size.

The inclusion of a foldable USB-C port further enhances its compactness and ease of use. Unlike chargers with dangling wires, the Anker Nano neatly connects directly to your phone, eliminating the awkwardness of figuring out where to place the charger while it's in use.
Impressive Power in a Small Package: Despite its small size, the Anker Nano boasts a 5,000mAh capacity. According to Anker, this is enough to charge an iPhone 15 Pro to 68%. Ortiz's own experience saw her Samsung Z Flip 4 get a 33% boost in just half an hour. While not a full charge, this is often precisely what's needed to get you through a crucial moment.
"That might not seem like a tremendous boost, but remember that this portable charger is meant to get you out of a pinch," Ortiz explains. "If your phone dies on you while you're out, getting a quarter of your battery back in under 30 minutes could be a lifesaver."
Hassle-Free Charging: Recharging the Anker Nano is also a breeze. Thanks to its bi-directional charging capabilities, you can simply plug it into a USB-C power brick without needing any extra wires. Alternatively, you can use a USB-C cable to charge both the power bank and your phone simultaneously thanks to its pass-through charging abilities.
Color Options: Express your style with five different colors: blue, black, white, green, and pink, complementing a wide range of phones.
Anker also offers another compelling option, the Anker Zolo Magnetic Power Bank with a built-in USB-C cable. This model combines wired and wireless charging capabilities, boasting 30W fast charging through the integrated cable and 7.5W wireless charging. It features a larger 10,000mAh battery, good for approximately two iPhone 15 charges, and a built-in stand for convenient viewing.
The Verdict: If you're in the market for a reliable, ultra-portable charger that won't break the bank, the Anker Nano 22.5W Power Bank is a solid choice. Its combination of size, convenience, and affordability make it an excellent option for personal use or as a gift. For those needing a larger capacity or wireless charging, the Anker Zolo is worth considering.
Which power bank features are most important to you? Let us know in the comments below!