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Review: Is the BioLite 100W USB-C Power Bank the Best for Traveling?

power bank
 

For travel content creators and digital nomads, "low battery" isn't just an annoyance—it’s a work stopper. Whether you are editing footage on a flight or trying to keep a drone in the air at a remote location, reliable power is non-negotiable.

We recently tested the BioLite 100W USB-C Power Bank (also known as the BioLite Charge 100 Max) to see if it lives up to the hype. I took this unit on a demanding trip to an eco-resort in the Bahamas to put it through its paces. Here is the breakdown.

The Real-World Test: Surviving the Bahamas

The true test of a power bank isn't in a studio; it's in the field. I took this power bank to an eco-resort in the Bahamas that relied entirely on solar power. With limited wall-outlet availability, I needed a personal reservoir of power to keep my production gear running.

What did it handle?

  • Mavic 3 Drone Batteries: The bank was able to fully charge the massive batteries for a Mavic 3 drone—a feat many smaller banks struggle with.

  • MacBook Pro: It charged a MacBook Pro a little over 50%, providing hours of extra editing time.

  • Small Electronics: GoPro batteries and iPhones were topped up with ease.

 

Key Features Breakdown 

1. Laptop-Class Power (100W Output)

The standout feature is the 100W USB-C Power Delivery (PD). Most standard power banks max out at 18W or 30W, which is fine for phones, but useless for laptops. The Charge 100 Max delivers enough juice to fast-charge a laptop or a drone battery, making it a legitimate replacement for a wall outlet.

2. The Port Selection

BioLite didn't skimp on connectivity. The device features:

  • 2x USB-C PD Ports: High-speed input/output (up to 100W).

  • 1x USB-C Port: Standard 15W output for phones/accessories.

  • 1x USB-A Port: For legacy devices (older cameras, headlamps).

3. MagSafe Wireless Charging

A unique feature for a power bank of this size is the integrated magnetic wireless deck. As demonstrated in the review, you can snap a MagSafe-compatible iPhone right onto the unit for cable-free charging.

4. Travel Ready & TSA Compliant

One of the biggest anxieties for travelers is airport security. The Charge 100 Max has a capacity of 25,000 mAh (91.3 Wh). Since the TSA limit for carry-on batteries is 100Wh, this device maximizes your power potential while remaining 100% "Air Travel Safe." I had zero issues taking it through TSA checkpoints.

Technical Specifications at a Glance

Feature Specification
Capacity 25,000 mAh (91.3 Wh)
Max Output 100W (Single Port) / 120W (Combined)
Recharge Time ~1.5 Hours (via 65W USB-C)
Weight ~1.3 lbs (580g)
Wireless 15W Qi / MagSafe Compatible
Durability Rubberized finish (Not waterproof)

 

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • High Output: Capable of charging laptops and drones quickly.

  • Versatile: Can charge up to 5 devices at once (including wireless).

  • Fast Recharging: The bank itself recharges rapidly via USB-C.

  • Rugged Design: The grey and yellow rubberized casing feels durable and grippy.

Cons:

  • Weight: At 1.3 lbs, it is dense. It’s portable, but you will feel it in your backpack.

  • Not Waterproof: Unlike some outdoor-specific gear, this needs to be kept dry (use a dry bag if you're on a boat!).

The Verdict

If you are just charging a phone, this might be overkill. But if you are a "travel content creator" or a remote worker carrying laptops, drones, and cameras, the BioLite Charge 100 Max is a top-tier investment. It bridges the gap between pocket chargers and massive power stations, giving you serious power in a form factor that still fits in your carry-on.

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