OKZU 10000 Power Bank Review

Bottom Line

The OKZU 10000 is a solid power bank that performs reliably in various categories, smashes the competition in recharging time, and only has a few weaknesses. Considering its price, it becomes apparent that it is one of the best choices for those looking to balance cost and performance. 

This is the top-performing power bank for charging speed, which comes in at a scant two and a half hours. It had a respectable performance in weight, efficiency, and durability, with enough features to make it useful for the average user. What it lacks in portability and cold tolerance can be easily overlooked in most situations

Efficiency

Among the 10,000 mAh power banks we tested, the OKZU is slightly above average regarding the amount of power per ounce and total output. It also scores just above average for efficiency compared to all the power banks we tested. We gathered these findings by plugging the fully charged OKZU into a multimeter and a dummy resistor load, which consistently drew power from the bank. By comparing the total amount of power inside the bank to its weight, we could better understand how big of a punch these small batteries pack. More power per weight means they are more efficient and a better choice. The OKZU does a decent job in this department, particularly for those seeking a more affordable option.

Weight & Packability

The OKZU’s moderate weight is a fair trade considering its price and all-around performance. We measured it at 6.6 ounces, which is on par with the weight advertised by the manufacturer. After comparing all the power banks we tested, the OKZU’s weight puts it in the middle of the pack when focusing on just the 10,000 mAh capacity range. For comparison, the Nitecore NB10000 weighed 5.3 ounces on our scale. Weighing 1.3 ounces more, the OKZU can save you about $35. Unsurprisingly, it weighs significantly less than the larger-capacity power banks we tested.

Like many other performance areas, the OKZU runs above average in terms of portability. We found it easy to hold and use, but it wasn’t our first choice of banks to grab. After completing our measurement test, we found that it fell below average compared to other 10,000 mAh power banks and slightly above average out of all the battery packs we tested. As it is around the size of a smartphone, it is small enough to fit in a larger-sized fanny pack or hip belt pocket, but it might be a stretch for smaller hipbelt pockets. Overall, it is easy to use while out and about, but it isn’t our top choice.

Durability

Functionally, the OKZU stands up to the rigors of the trail, but cosmetically, it is a different story. Our durability tests consisted of several components. To start, we spent several weeks moving the power banks around in a loosely packed bag, where they were frequently jostled and banged together. We also brought them on multiple backpacking trips to test for normal wear and tear on the trail.

Finally, we conducted our drop test, dropping them from a height of eight feet into loosely packed dirt. After all of our testing, the OKZU still works like new. However, by this point, multiple scratches are visible across its surface, giving it a well-worn look. As it does not come with any protective sleeve, there is no way to limit cosmetic wear and tear. In our experience, functionality is more important than cosmetic appearance in a piece of gear like a power bank, and it still performed well overall.

Charging Speed

The OKZU 10000 smashes the competition in charging speed. When plugged into a QC 3.0 wall charger with a standard USB-C cable the OKZU was able to fully charge in two hours and thirty-six minutes. This is a full 40 minutes faster than any other power bank. That time adds up, particularly when resupplying in town on a thru-hike or getting ready for the next weekend trip.

Features

The OKZU has just the right features for a budget-conscious option to make it useful in the field. We liked that it has both pass-through charging – meaning you can charge both the power bank and a device at the same time – and the ability to charge multiple devices simultaneously. We also appreciate that it has two input options: a USB-C and micro-USB port. There isn’t any trickle charge option for smaller electronics, but overall, it offers a solid number of features considering its low cost.

Cold Charging

For those looking to charge their devices frequently in colder weather, there are better choices than the OKZU. After discharging it in a refrigerator using our digital multimeter and dummy load resistor setup, we found it put out less power than during our initial efficiency test. In total, this loss of efficiency added up to a 6.9% loss, which put it towards the bottom of our list in this category. Fortunately, workarounds include keeping the power bank warm inside a sleeping bag or underneath clothing for daytime charging.

Should You Buy the OKZU 10000?

We know how hard it can be to balance a tight budget and performance in outdoor gear. That is why we like what the OKZU 10000 brings to the power bank market. After conducting rigorous testing, we found that the OKZU performs consistently and makes an excellent choice for those who want a reliable power bank without emptying their wallet. That said, those who want to optimize their pack weight and power efficiency might find the OKZU lacking in a few areas.

What Other Power Banks Should You Consider?

INIU Megapower 10000 Review: This one hangs close to the OKZU in most of the tests we performed, including weight, charging time, efficiency, durability, and portability, an comes with a similar price tag.

Zendure Super Mini:  A reliable and affordable option, this bank may interest those prioritizing portability over recharge time. 

Miady AS-TPB21: This is an excellent option for those who are on an even stricter budget. With what is effectively a two-for-one deal, there are few others out there that perform as well as the Miady at this price point.