Portable power stations are cousins of generators packed into a smaller size. They offer a wide range of ports, as well as jack and outlet selection you need to keep your power tools, phone and other electronics charged and running smoothly. A portable power station is a versatile, lunch-box-size power bank that can go with you to construction sites, on camping trips or wherever else you need electricity.

They can also provide backup power during a power outage when you need to keep your phone on or an essential appliance running. The best portable power station for your particular needs will depend on many factors, but it will probably come down to the cardinal two: power delivery performance and price.

I tested seven portable power stations ranging from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000 to compile this list. Two of the models I initially reviewed and recommended — the Klein Tools KTB5 (best midrange) and the Rockpals 300W (best budget) — have been discontinued. I replaced them with newer, similar versions, but these models have not been tested for power delivery and overall performance.

I focused exclusively on rechargeable battery-powered models with the best portable power station performances for their prices, but gas generator models and solar-powered varieties are also available. While each power station provides mobile power in a compact design, each portable generator has a different design and range of features.

I put each battery pack through its paces and considered factors such as battery life, wattage, power output, type of charging ports the power station offered (at least one USB port was a must) and more. Each is more than just an on-the-go phone battery charger or glamping must-have. These power bank performers have wide-ranging uses from building and construction to staying connected with the office or family to having access to emergency lighting and power wherever you roam.

Keep in mind that the prices I note below for each portable power station may change as retailers introduce sales and other updates. I’ll do my best to check in regularly so they reflect the most recent pricing.

That’s it. Let’s find the best portable power station to suit your needs.