This Anker power bank solved my big problem with portable chargers, and it's on sale for $13 right now

What's the deal?

Right now at Amazon, the Anker Nano Power Bank in the Ice Lake Blue, Lilac Purple, and Sprout Green are currently going for $12.79. The Nano Power Bank in all other colors (Black Stone and Shell White) is 47% off, making these devices $16 and $17 each.

Why this deal is ZDNET-recommended

Ever since Anker released the Nano 22.5W Power Bank over a year ago, I've had the fortune of testing it, and no matter how much time passes, I always reach for it. 

To Android and new (or incoming) iPhone users looking to add a USB-C charger to their daily carry, I'm happy to say that this device from Anker is quite impressive.

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See, I have quibbles with many portable chargers. Those issues include not having the right wire, not knowing where to hold the charger while it's charging my phone, and feeling like it takes forever to increase the battery percentage. This charger addresses all those issues and more.  

Anker 22.5W Nano Power Bank Specs

Lipstick-sized charger

The power bank puts the "portable" in portable charger, fitting right in the palm of your hand and comfortably into your pocket without weighing it down.

For a size comparison, I sat it next to my go-to lipstick. As you can see, they are comparable in size.

The charger also features a foldable USB-C port, which increases its compactness even further. 

To use the charger, flip the USB-C port up and let it hang from your phone as you continue using your device, which eliminates the struggle of figuring out where to place your power bank. 

With such a small form factor, you would think the device's charging power would be compromised, but that was far from my experience.

Impressive charging power for its size

The 22.5W Power Bank packs a 5,000mAh capacity, which is enough to charge an iPhone 15 Pro to 68%, according to Anker. In my experience, it charged my Samsung Z Flip 4 from zero to 33% in half an hour. 

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That might not seem like a tremendous boost, but remember that this portable charger is meant to get you out of a pinch. 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.

Charging the power bank is hassle-free

Charging the charger is a breeze because it features bi-directional charging, which allows you to plug the device into a USB-C power brick to charge it, forgoing any pesky wires. 

If you want to charge the portable charger with a wire, you have that option because it has a USB-C port on the side. If you choose this alternative, you can charge your phone with the power bank at the same time because of its pass-through charging abilities.

The charger comes in five colors: blue, black, white, green, and pink, matching every iPhone 15 color besides yellow, which you could pair with the white option instead.

ZDNET's buying advice

If you are searching for a new portable charger for your new iPhone, the Anker Nano 22.5W Power Bank is a good choice because it won't break the bank and will get the job done. The fun color options, effectiveness, size, and low price point also make it a good choice for gifting. Dare I say, a stocking stuffer?