Anker Prime 12000mAh Power Bank (130W) Review

Released at the beginning of August, the Anker Prime 12000mAh Power Bank (130W) is one of several new entrants in the Anker Prime lineup. A distinctive feature of these new power banks is the smart display, a novelty first introduced in the Anker 737 model. This display provides real-time feedback on input/output and available capacity. Additionally, they come equipped with a pogo pin attachment on their base, designed to pair with the Anker 100W Charging Base.

The model number of this power bank is A1335 which I have used throughout the article to avoid typing out its full generic name all the time.

Anker Power Bank Comparison

Feature/Specification	Anker Prime Power Bank 12000mAh	Anker Prime Power Bank 20000mAh	Anker Prime Power Bank 27650mAh	Anker 737 Power Bank 24000mAh
Capacity	12,000mAh	20,000mAh	27,650mAh	24,000mAh
Single-Port Max Output	65W	100W	140W	140W
Charging Ports	2 USB C	2 USB-C, 1 USB-A	2 USB-C, 1 USB-A	2 USB-C, 1 USB-A
Compatible Devices	For Laptops, Phones, Tablets	For Laptops, Phones, Tablets	For Laptops, Phones, Tablets	For Laptops, Phones, Tablets
Size	134.4x55x34.5 mm	126.9×54.6×49.6 mm	161.7x57x49.7 mm	155.8×54.6×49.6 mm
Weight	13 oz / 370 g	19 OZ / 540 g	23 OZ / 662 g	22 oz / 631 g

Key Features

• High-Speed Charging: Offers up to 130W of total output with a single USB-C port delivering a maximum of 65W.
• Compact Design: Boasts a pocket-friendly design measuring just 5.29 × 2.17 × 1.36 inches.
• Smart Digital Display: Provides essential data such as remaining battery capacity, power input, and power output.
• Quick Recharge: A 65W rapid recharge capability ensures full power restoration in just 45 minutes.

Design & Display Comparison: Anker 737 vs. Anker A1335

While power banks aren’t typically known for their aesthetics, the A1335 stands out. It mirrors the Anker 737 with its intelligent display, showcasing battery health, charge status, and input/output data for the USB ports. Its base features metal pogo port contact points for the charging base. In terms of size, it’s noticeably smaller than the Anker 737, measuring 134.4×55×34.5 mm and weighing 370g compared to the 737’s 155.8×54.6×49.6 mm and 631g. This power bank is chunkier than some smaller models, but what it lacks in slimness, it makes up for in power output.

Capacity Insights

The A1335 is structured with three 4000mAh cells, bringing its total capacity to 12000mAh. The 5V output for this battery, when recalculated, offers an 8640 mAh capacity.

Performance Testing

In real-world testing, charging a flat 4500 mAh Realme GT Neo 3 took 52% of the bank’s expected capacity, leaving 42% capacity in the power bank. This represents an impressive efficiency of nearly 90%.

When testing power output, I utilized the Zhiyun Molus X100 COB light (a 100W LED light) and the Cable Matters USB4 cable, rated for 240W. On one port, the bank achieved 65W output (65% brightness) and 60W on the second, with comparable brightness levels. My Huawei Matebook 13 drew 60W without a hitch. However, note that output is restricted to 50W during recharging when the battery capacity is between 0-15% and 85-100%.

Price and Alternatives

Priced at £100, the Anker Prime 130-watt Power Bank is currently unavailable on Amazon and Anker’s site. Comparatively, the 20,000mAh 200W model is priced at £130 with a £30 discount, while the Anker Prime 27,650mAh (250W) is at £180, also with a £30 discount. The older Anker 737 with 24,000mAh is available for just £99.

Final Thoughts

On a price-to-capacity basis, the A1335 might seem costly. The Anker 737 offers double the capacity and more power at nearly the same price. However, the A1335’s compactness makes it highly portable, fitting snugly in pockets without creating an awkward bulge. While there are more compact power banks available, they often limit power delivery to 20W. The A1335’s 65W output, in contrast, supports faster charging and even caters to laptops.

In summary, the A1335 is a stellar travel companion, especially when higher battery consumption is anticipated. Despite the hefty price tag for its capacity, its convenience, and high output make it a valuable addition for travelers.