This Rugged Power Bank Is One Of The Fastest I've Used - And It's So Close To Perfect

ZDNET's key takeaways

• The BioLite Charge 100 Max is available direct from BioLite for $150.
• It's a powerful, well-made, durable power bank.
  
  
• However, it's somewhat bulky and not water-resistant, and there are no port covers to prevent dirt ingress.

BioLite, a specialist in off-grid energy solutions, just unveiled a new power bank that's equally suited for outdoor adventures and modern workloads, and I recently had a chance to go hands-on with it.

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The BioLite Charge 100 Max can charge up to five devices simultaneously -- one of them wirelessly -- making it a versatile and powerful unit that I can see being utilized by all sorts of groups, from family gatherings to base camps. 

BioLite Charge 100 Max tech specs

• Total power output: 120W total
• Total ports:
  
  2x 100W USB-C PD, 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 12V/3A, 15V/3A, 20V/5A
  
  1x 15W USB-C, 15W, 5V/3A
  
  1x 15W USB-A, 15W, 5V/3A
  
  1x 15W wireless
• Magnetic wireless charging: Yes
• Time to recharge: 1.5 hours (65W USB-C PD)
• Carry-on compliant: Yes
• Battery: 25,000mAh (91.25 Wh) 1,000 cycles to >70% capacity
• Weight: 580g
• Dimensions: 5.4 x 4.4 x 1.4-in / 140 x 112 x 35 mm
• MSRP: $149.95

As far as power banks goes, the Charge 100 Max is about as good as they get. It's well made and durable enough to take drops and bumps with no problem. All the ports output exactly what they should -- even the wireless charging pad -- and it charges super-fast, going from flat to full in under two hours using a 65W charger.

The 100W maximum single-port output means you have the power to keep laptops running, while the 130W max output with multiple ports offers a lot of flexibility to keep a lot of gear topped up. When it comes to charging, this thing is top-tier. 

But there's a drawback: it's not waterproof, and BioLite states as much in the device's FAQ, saying that the Charge 100 Max is "not intended for water exposure," and that "if you're planning to use in wet environments we recommend storing in a dry bag for transport and using under shelter."

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Is this a deal-breaker? In my mind, no. While I do have fully IP68-rated power banks and power stations that are about as water-resistant as they get, there are very few times that anyone wants to be charging things out in the rain. 

While I do find applications for a fully water-resistant power bank like the Klarus K5 (for example, powering my GoPro for extended periods), for the majority of the time I protect my gear using dry bags and Ziplock bags. 

But as far as durability goes, the Charge 100 Max is as tough as they get, and is built to survive falling from a backpack or accidentally kicked about. However, keep in mind that there are no port covers, so dirt and debris can enter the ports if it's on the ground. If this is a concern, keep cables plugged into the ports or buy a pack of silicone port protectors. 

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The unit also comes with a two year warranty, which can be extended by a third year with registration, which will undoubtedly add peace of mind for many consumers.

ZDNET's buying advice

BioLite makes some excellent gear aimed specifically at the outdoor and off-grid markets. Their latest addition to the power bank line is no different, with the BioLite Charge 100 Max offering the capabilities needed to handle modern high-wattage workloads, such as powering laptops. This power bank is perfect for such demanding tasks, but I'd only recommend it to users that don't anticipate it coming into contact with water.