Nitecore NB10000 Gen 4: Lightest 10,000mAh Power Bank Reviewed

Nitecore has launched its latest portable power bank, the NB10000 Gen 4, setting a new benchmark for ultralight and compact charging solutions. Weighing a mere 146 grams and measuring only 1.45 x 11.6 x 4.68cm, this 10,000mAh device is reportedly the lightest and smallest in its class. It is designed for outdoor enthusiasts, endurance athletes, and anyone prioritizing minimal gear weight without compromising power. The NB10000 Gen 4 is built with a silicon-carbon anode, a technology also found in flagship smartphones, contributing to its impressive energy density.

The device's 39Wh battery capacity is sufficient to fully recharge an iPhone 15 Pro twice, with power to spare. It also boasts an output of up to 22.5W, capable of providing a supplemental charge to larger devices like a 14-inch MacBook Pro. Nitecore has also included a pass-through charging feature, allowing users to charge their gadgets while the power bank itself is replenishing its energy.

Advanced Technology and Durability

The secret to the NB10000 Gen 4's low weight and high performance lies in its silicon-carbon anode construction. This advanced battery technology allows for greater energy storage in a smaller and lighter package. The power bank’s efficiency was measured at 86.1 percent, delivering 33.58Wh from its claimed 39Wh capacity, a slight improvement over its predecessor. This translates to 229.98Wh/kg of delivered energy, positioning it as a leader in its segment.

In addition to its technological advancements, the NB10000 Gen 4 is built for rugged use. It features a carbon fiber sheet construction and offers IPX7 water resistance, providing protection against rain and temporary submersion. This level of durability is crucial for a device intended for outdoor adventures. The power bank supports multiple charging protocols, including PD, QC3.0, and Huawei’s SCP, ensuring broad compatibility with various devices. Unlike previous models, the Gen 4 appears to have addressed overheating and shutdown issues when nearing depletion.

The device includes a straightforward four-element LED indicator for battery status, a design choice favoring simplicity over complex displays. Nitecore has also integrated an animated RGB lighting system around the dual USB-C ports, intended to aid visibility in dark conditions. While functional, this feature, along with a touch-sensitive wake button, can be toggled off if preferred. The knock-to-wake feature, which aims to illuminate the lights and indicator with a gentle tap, was reported to work reliably about 75 percent of the time during testing. The RGB lights can also indicate charging status, glowing yellow for regular mode and green for an eco mode.

Eco mode, which reduces output to 5W, is designed to prevent the power bank from shutting down when charging low-power devices like smartwatches or earbuds. This mode can also potentially extend the total charge capacity by minimizing heat waste and optimizing voltage conversion. Despite its premium features and performance, the NB10000 Gen 4 comes with a higher price tag of $83.95, a notable increase from the $64.95 price of the Gen 3 model two years prior. This cost premium, however, is directly linked to the significant weight savings and advanced technology it offers, making it a compelling option for those who value every gram saved on their expeditions.

The Nitecore NB10000 Gen 4 emerges as an exceptional choice for hikers, ultrarunners, and backpackers who demand lightweight yet powerful gear. Its combination of class-leading energy density, compact form factor, and robust construction addresses the core needs of modern adventurers. While the increased price point may be a consideration, the tangible benefits in weight reduction and performance for backpacking and endurance athletes are likely to justify the investment for its target audience. The device’s power bank technology represents a significant step forward in portable energy solutions.