Reviewed: BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank

My trusty AUKEY 30,000mAh power bank developed a crack after several years of use. I was in need of a durable and comparable replacement so I tested the new BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank to see if it lives up to my simple-to-use long-lasting old-timer.

BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank Stats

• · Dimensions: 5.4” long X 4.4” wide X 1.4” tall
• · Weight: 20.46 ounces (580 grams)
• · Battery: 25,000mAh
• · Total output power: 120 watts (that can be delivered at one time with various devices plugged in using power)
• · Total ports: 2) 100W USB-C PD (PD stands for power delivery), 1) 15W USB-C, 1) 15W USB-A, and 1) 15W wireless
• · Time for recharging unit: 1.5 hours (using 65W USB-C PD port or your laptop’s 65W charging cord) and approximately five hours if using an 18W USB-C cable)
• · Box contents: BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank and 100W USB-C PD cable (note: the wall plug end is not included)

Charge 100 Max’s Features and Useability
The BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank is high-powered, FAA carry-on compliant, and can charge up to five devices at one time—more than many others on the market.

The ports are easily marked, and the yellow battery level indicator lights are bright and easy to see. This housing is grippy and easy to hold. It’s easy to pack and a cinch to find as it’s not black, too (thank you!).

However, it’s not a simple plug-and-play affair as some other portable power banks are. You don’t simply push a power button or plug in your device for it to charge. The BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank has different sequences of button pushes to get the unit to charge, stop charging, or change ports from charging out to charging in.

We first took the BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank to Europe on the 2024 Baltic Sea Circle Rally, thinking the device was simple to use. So, we left the directions at home.

Consequently, we struggled at points to get the Charge 100 Max unit to power devices right away or turn off as we didn’t know the correct cadence. Though once learned, it becomes second nature. Here’s the low-down:

Before the unit’s first use, charge it fully using the 65W USB-C PD input.

The “action button” on the side of the unit can be pressed to wake the unit up, check status, and change sync its actions.

• · 1x Press: A single button press initiates the charge out and displays the charge level left in the unit.
• · 2x Press: Double pressing the button changes a port from charge out to charge in.
• · A three-second hold will stop the charge out.

I wish BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank was simpler to use like my old plug-and-play workhorse AUKEY. That power bank also had one button. You simply pressed it to turn it on. When you were done you unplugged the device you were charging with it, and it automatically shut off.

Charge Scenarios
With USB-C, USB-A, and wireless power outputs, the Charge 100 Max can support up to 120W of simultaneous charging, which works extremely well. This holds especially true when charging my power-hungry Lenovo laptop, along with other devices at the same time.

Not only will it charge my beast, but it’ll also charge it just as quickly as its factory AC-supplied power brick. Most laptops, like my Lenovo, use a 65W charging brick although some use 100W. The Charge 100 Max provides up to 100W of power out.

I was able to get two charges using my laptop with the BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank. During our overseas trip, we averaged around seven to eight overnight charges with our smartphones and several charges with our Ledlenser headlamps, too. This power bank charges devices super-fast when using the appropriate ports.

Summing It Up
In short, once you figure out the power button sequence, the new BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank should set you up for countless fast-charging experiences no matter where you camp, work, or live. Its durable and brightly colored case is easy to find when light is waning and it powers things quickly when you need it to. Only time will tell to see if this heavy-duty power bank will hold up as well as my former charge did. But for now, it’s been my go-to power bank. 

BioLite Charge 100 Max Portable Power Bank
MSRP: $149.95

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