CUKTECH 45W Power Bank Review: The Best Budget Power Bank Under $30
As someone who has reviewed countless power banks, including the premium Anker 737, Anker Prime, CUKTECH 20 and Sharge Storm 2, I’ve seen it all—sleek designs, fancy displays, and impressive charging speeds. However, these features often come with a hefty price tag. That’s why the CUKTECH 45W Power Bank caught my attention.
At under $30, this power bank delivers exceptional value, making it a standout choice for budget-conscious users who still want reliability, portability, and performance. While it may not cater to extreme fast-charging enthusiasts, its 20,000mAh capacity and built-in USB-C cable make it the perfect companion for everyday users who value convenience and affordability.
Table of Contents
We Like
- Built-in USB-C Cable: Great for users who constantly forget cables—no more tangled cords!
- 20,000mAh Capacity: Ideal for charging multiple devices throughout the day.
- 45W Charging: Fast enough for most people, though not blazing fast.
- Multi-Device Charging: Can charge three devices simultaneously, making it versatile.
- Safety Certified: UL, CE, CB, and FCC certifications provide peace of mind.
We Don't Like
- Charging Speed: While 45W charging is decent, it is not the fastest—so it’s not ideal for those seeking extremely fast charging or fast charging while charging multiple devices simultaneously.
- Bulkier Size: The 20,000mAh capacity makes it a bit bulkier compared to smaller power banks, which might be an issue for people looking for an ultra-portable option.
- No Wireless Charging: This power bank does not support wireless charging.
My Power Bank Journey: Why the CUKTECH Stands Out
Over the years, I’ve tested many power banks, and while I love the fancy designs and advanced features of models like the Sharge Storm 2, I’ve found that these extras are often unnecessary for most users. Complex displays showing battery details or intricate functions may look cool, but they tend to consume more capacity and add bulk without offering much practical value.
I’ve also encountered a recurring problem: losing cables. As someone who often misplaces things, I’ve had power banks with me but no cable to charge my devices—a frustrating experience, especially during travel or emergencies. That’s why the built-in USB-C cable on the CUKTECH 45W Power Bank is a game-changer for me.
Another challenge I’ve faced is the small capacity of certain power banks. With two phones to charge daily, smaller capacity models don’t last long enough. The CUKTECH’s 20,000mAh capacity solves this problem, ensuring I have enough power for multiple charges without worrying about running out of juice.
What Makes the CUKTECH 45W Power Bank Exceptional
1. Unbeatable Price
Let’s start with the most impressive aspect: price. At less than $30, the CUKTECH 45W Power Bank delivers features typically found in products costing twice as much. While premium models like the Anker 737 and Sharge Storm 2 are excellent, they come with price tags that can exceed $100.
For budget-conscious buyers, the CUKTECH is an incredible deal that doesn’t compromise on essential features like capacity, portability, and charging speed.
2. Massive 20,000mAh Capacity
With its 20,000mAh capacity, this power bank is built to handle multiple charges for a variety of devices. Here’s what you can expect:
- iPhone 15: Up to 4.1 full charges
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Up to 2.9 full charges
- iPad Air: About 1.9 charges
- MacBook Air (A2337): 1.2 charges
This makes it an ideal choice for travelers, commuters, and anyone who needs a reliable backup power source. Whether you’re working long hours, traveling across time zones, or preparing for emergencies, the CUKTECH ensures your devices stay powered up.
3. Built-In USB-C Cable
One of my favorite features is the built-in USB-C cable. As someone who frequently forgets to bring charging cables, this feature has saved me from countless headaches.
The cable is durable, tested to withstand over 10,000 uses, and even doubles as a carrying strap. This small but thoughtful design element adds a layer of convenience that’s rare to find in a power bank at this price point.
4. 45W Charging: Reliable but Not the Fastest
The CUKTECH offers 45W maximum output, which is fast enough for most users but may not satisfy those who need extreme fast charging or want to charge multiple devices simultaneously at high speeds.
Here’s what it can do:
- Charge a Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra to 50% in 20 minutes
- Power up a MacBook Air (A2337) to 42% in just 30 minutes
However, if you’re charging multiple devices at once, the speed will slow down. For example, charging two or three devices simultaneously may result in moderate charging speeds rather than the blazing-fast performance some high-end power banks offer.
That said, at less than $30, the CUKTECH strikes a good balance between price and performance, making it a solid choice for everyday users who don’t need ultra-fast speeds.
5. Multi-Device Charging
The power bank is equipped with:
- 2 USB-C ports (45W PD)
- 1 USB-A port (18W QC)
This means you can charge up to three devices at once, which is handy for anyone carrying multiple gadgets like smartphones, tablets, or wireless earbuds.
6. Compact and Travel-Friendly Design
At just 5.76 inches in length, the CUKTECH is small enough to fit in your backpack or even a pocket. Its lightweight design and built-in cable make it a practical choice for travelers who want to pack light without sacrificing charging capacity.
7. Safety Certified
The CUKTECH 45W Power Bank meets multiple safety certifications, including UL, CE, CB, and FCC, ensuring a safer charging experience for your devices.
Who Should Buy the CUKTECH 45W Power Bank?
The CUKTECH is perfect for:
- Budget shoppers: If you want a high-quality power bank under $30, this is one of the best options available.
- Frequent travelers: Its compact design, built-in cable, and high capacity make it an excellent travel companion.
- Everyday users: Ideal for people who need a reliable, affordable power bank for daily use.
- Light device users: Great for those who don’t need ultra-fast charging but still want reliable performance.
What’s in the Box:
- CUKTECH 45W 20,000mAh Power Bank
- Built-in USB-C Cable (5.76 inches)
- User Manual
Who Should Buy This Product?
The CUKTECH 45W Power Bank is a great option for:
- Everyday users who want a reliable, high-capacity power bank without the need for advanced features or extremely fast charging.
- Travelers who need a convenient charging solution with a built-in cable to avoid carrying extra cords.
- Commuters or remote workers who just need a dependable power bank to keep their devices charged throughout the day.
Final Verdict
The CUKTECH 45W Power Bank is an incredible value at under $30. While it may not have the flashy displays or extreme charging speeds of premium models, it excels in the areas that matter most: convenience, capacity, and affordability.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly power bank with enough capacity to keep your devices charged throughout the day, the CUKTECH is an easy recommendation. It’s not the fastest charger on the market, but for its price, it’s hard to beat.