REASONS TO BUY
Large display
USB-C port
Fast charging capable
REASONS TO AVOID
Large
Poor performance in our recharge test
INIU BI-B5 Review
This portable charger has a large display and a USB-C port, but we weren't too impressed with its performance in our capacity test
By David Wise ⋅ Senior Review Editor ⋅ March 7, 2022
Contributions From: Austin Palmer
Our Verdict
Overall, we weren't particularly thrilled with the INIU BI-B5's performance in our portable charger tests. While it has some nice and unique features, like a large display, integrated flashlight, and compatibility with some of the newest fast-charging standards, it delivered mediocre results in our resistive load capacity test and is a bit large and clunky to carry around.
Our Analysis and Test Results
Overall, we weren't impressed with this model for our charging needs. The INIU BI-B5's unique feature is a separate USB-powered flashlight, which can be useful if you need even more illumination than what the integrated LED can provide.
This battery includes a few extra convenience features.
Credit: Laura Casner
Portability
The INIU BI-B5 is one of the larger and heavier chargers of the group, around 5.25 inches long by 2.5 inches wide by 1 inch thick. It tips the scales at just over 12 ounces — considerably heavier than average. Overall, we don't think this charger is comfortable to carry around in a pocket. It's about the same size as three smartphones stacked up and is definitely noticeable in the front or back pocket of a typical pair of pants. It is particularly uncomfortable to sit down while the INIU BI-B5 is in a back pocket.
We like the large digital display on this portable charger.
Credit: Laura Casner
Charging Efficiency
The INIU BI-B5 is rated as having a 20,000 mAh capacity, but we got considerably less than that in our test. We set the dummy load to a 2.4 amp draw, and the INIU BI-B5 was completely depleted after 2 hours and 22 minutes. This meant it only provided 5699 mAh or 28% of its rated capacity.
The BI-B5 did much better in our device charging tests. We were able to completely charge a Samsung Galaxy S8 5 times, outperforming the claims of 4 charges made by other 20,000 mAh battery packs.
The included accessories with this battery.
Credit: Laura Casner
Added Convenience
This portable power pack can charge up to three devices at once with its pair of USB-A ports and a single USB-C port. It has a built-in flashlight, as well as a USB-powered brighter light. It also has a large digital readout that shows the battery level.
This battery can charge multiple devices at the same time.
Credit: Laura Casner
Recharge Time
The INIU BI-B5 took around 360 minutes using the included USB-A to C cable plugged into a typical charger, which aligns quite well with the manufacturer's claims. They state that the INIU BI-B5 should take around 6 hours to charge with an 18-watt power adapter, 10 hours with a 2 amp charger, and 20 hours with a 1 amp charger.
All in all, we weren't overly impressed with the performance of this portable charger.
Credit: Laura Casner
Should You Buy the INIU BI-B5?
While the INIU BI-B5 does have some interesting and unique features, its overall performance makes us reticent to recommend it, and we found other portable chargers that we vastly preferred.
What Other Portable Chargers Should You Consider?
One of our favorite overall portable chargers was the INIU Portable Charger 10000, which is an all-around high performer that also won't break the bank. Those seeking to charge larger devices, like laptops, should take a look at the Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD. To get the most bang for your buck, we recommend the 2-Pack Miady 10000, which includes two chargers for a low price.
—David Wise and Austin Palmer
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