Anker 737 Power Bank (PowerCore 24K) Review

Review Summary

The Anker 737 Power Bank (PowerCore 24K) is a powerhouse portable charger designed to keep multiple devices running even when you’re far from a wall outlet. With a huge 24,000mAh capacity, 140W output, and an advanced OLED display, this power bank is positioned as a premium solution for heavy-duty charging needs. After extensive testing, here’s an in-depth review of its design, features, and performance.

Who It’s For

• Frequent travelers who need reliable power for multiple devices during long trips.
• Professionals and remote workers who depend on staying charged away from outlets, especially for laptops and tablets.
• Outdoor enthusiasts and campers who require a high-capacity power bank for extended periods without access to power sources.
• Power users who prioritize fast charging and want to charge high-powered devices like laptops or gaming consoles.
• Tech enthusiasts who appreciate detailed power management, thanks to the OLED display and real-time monitoring features.

Design & Build Quality

The Anker 737 features a sleek and sturdy black and grey design that balances durability with style. Measuring approximately 6.1 × 2.2 × 2 inches and weighing about 630 grams, it’s compact enough to carry in a backpack, though it’s on the heavier side for a power bank. However, the weight is justified by its massive battery capacity and high power output, making it an excellent travel companion for those needing substantial backup power on the go.

A standout feature of the Anker 737 is its OLED display, which provides real-time information on charging status, output/input power, remaining battery life, and time to full recharge. The screen even displays cycle counts and battery health, which is helpful for tracking usage over time. This detailed level of feedback adds a layer of control and insight that’s rare among power banks, making it easy to optimize charging for different devices.

Charging Performance & Versatility

One of the 737’s biggest advantages is its powerful 140W output, supported by Power Delivery (PD) 3.1 technology, which enables ultra-fast charging for both connected devices and the power bank itself. In our tests, the 737 was able to fully recharge a MacBook Pro in under an hour—an impressive feat for a portable charger. The two USB-C ports each support up to 140W when used individually, allowing fast charging of high-powered devices like laptops, tablets, and gaming consoles. Additionally, there’s a USB-A port with an 18W output, ideal for smaller devices like smartphones and Bluetooth headphones.

The 737 also supports bi-directional charging, meaning it can recharge itself at 140W if connected to a compatible charger. This feature allows the power bank to be fully recharged in about an hour, which is significantly faster than most other models on the market. This quick turnaround is perfect for users who are frequently on the move and need a rapid charge-up for the power bank itself.

Device Compatibility

Anker’s PowerCore 24K is compatible with a wide range of devices, from smartphones to laptops, thanks to its support for PD 3.1, Quick Charge (QC) 5, and PPS protocols. During testing, we successfully charged multiple devices simultaneously without compromising performance. For example, we could charge a laptop on one USB-C port at 80W, a tablet on the second USB-C port at 40W, and a phone on the USB-A port at 18W, reaching the 140W total output limit.

It’s particularly convenient for users who rely on multiple devices throughout the day, as it can handle the varied power requirements of each device with ease. We found that the power bank could fully charge a modern smartphone around 5 times or a MacBook Air 1.3 times before needing a recharge. This flexibility makes it an ideal solution for remote work setups, long trips, or situations where power outlets are scarce.

OLED Display & User Interface

The OLED display is a unique and practical feature that sets the Anker 737 apart from standard power banks. The screen shows real-time information, including the current battery level, the remaining charging time, and the specific wattage each port is delivering. It even provides temperature readings and battery health status, which can be useful for ensuring safe usage and maintaining the battery over time.

Navigating the display is simple, with a single button that cycles through various metrics. A double-press activates “trickle charging” mode, which is ideal for smaller devices like Bluetooth earbuds that require lower power input. The screen also automatically adjusts orientation based on the device’s position, which is a nice touch for usability.

Portability & Practicality

While the Anker 737’s size and weight make it less pocket-friendly, it’s still highly portable, fitting comfortably in a backpack or travel bag. The high capacity and versatile charging capabilities make it a valuable companion for business trips, vacations, and outdoor adventures. It’s also TSA-approved, so you can carry it on flights without any issues, providing reassurance for those who travel frequently.

For longer trips, especially to places with limited access to power outlets, the 737 ensures that essential devices stay charged. The high-capacity battery can handle multiple charges, making it ideal for extended periods away from power sources.

Safety Features

Anker has equipped the 737 with ActiveShield 2.0, which includes multiple safety protections. The power bank has built-in temperature sensors that monitor both the device and connected electronics, ensuring they don’t overheat during charging. The device is designed to detect and adjust power output to prevent any potential damage to sensitive electronics, which is especially important when dealing with high-power outputs like 140W.

Additionally, the power bank’s high-quality construction feels robust and durable, and it’s backed by Anker’s two-year warranty, adding further confidence in its reliability.

Drawbacks

While the Anker 737 excels in power and versatility, it does come with a few limitations. Firstly, the price is relatively high, with a retail price around $150, which might be a stretch for casual users. It’s certainly an investment, albeit a worthwhile one for those who rely heavily on portable power.

The unit’s weight and size are also on the larger side, which may be inconvenient for users looking for a lighter, pocket-sized option. Additionally, the 140W output is only available through the USB-C ports individually; when charging multiple devices, the wattage distribution can vary and potentially lead to reduced efficiency.

Overall Verdict

The Anker 737 Power Bank (PowerCore 24K) is a high-performance power bank designed for those who need reliable, fast charging for multiple devices. With a substantial 24,000mAh capacity, ultra-fast 140W output, and a versatile OLED display, it’s one of the best options on the market for heavy users and frequent travelers. Its compatibility with a wide range of devices, combined with the bi-directional 140W charging capability, makes it an invaluable tool for anyone who depends on staying powered up away from outlets.

If portability, power, and versatility are top priorities, the Anker 737 is an outstanding choice. However, its premium price and larger form factor may not appeal to casual users looking for a simpler, smaller backup charger.

Overall Score: 4.5/5