The Nitecore NB10000 Gen 4: The World’s Lightest 10,000mAh Power Bank Evolves
Nitecore has once again raised the bar for ultralight portable power with the release of the NB10000 Gen 4 on January 29, 2026. Billed as the smallest and lightest true 10,000mAh power bank available, this latest generation builds on the success of previous models like the Carbo 10000 Gen 2, delivering meaningful refinements in weight, efficiency, durability, and usability. Tailored for trail runners, ultralight backpackers, endurance athletes, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who demand reliable power without added bulk, the Gen 4 prioritizes every gram while maintaining high performance.
At the heart of the upgrade is next-generation silicon-carbon anode battery technology, featuring an 8% ultra-high silicon content—similar to what’s found in flagship smartphones. This enables a nominal capacity of 10,000mAh at 3.9V, translating to 39Wh of energy storage. That’s a noticeable step up from the typical ~37Wh in standard 10,000mAh banks and slightly more than the 38.8Wh of earlier Nitecore iterations, offering up to 20% more usable energy in optimal conditions.
The power bank weighs just 143g (±5g), or about 5 oz (excluding accessories), making it lighter than its predecessors. Dimensions measure a compact 116mm × 46.8mm × 14.5mm (roughly 4.57″ × 1.84″ × 0.57″), comparable in size to a standard energy gel packet for effortless pocket or pack carry. The build combines dual-sided carbon fiber sheets with a reinforced flame-retardant composite frame, ensuring ruggedness without excess weight.
A major durability enhancement comes in the form of full IPX7 waterproofing, allowing the unit to withstand complete submersion— a significant improvement over the IPX5 rating on prior generations. This makes it far more reliable in wet trail conditions, rain, or accidental dips during outdoor adventures.
Charging capabilities include dual USB-C ports that support both input and output at up to 22.5W maximum (via USB Power Delivery: 5V/3A, 9V/2.22A, 12V/1.87A). When using both ports simultaneously, total output is capped at 15W (5V/3A). Pass-through charging is fully supported, allowing the bank to charge devices while recharging itself. Rated output delivers up to 7,200mAh at 5V in Eco Mode (optimized for maximum efficiency and extended runtime) or around 6,800mAh in Regular Mode (for higher current demands).
Usability features have been thoughtfully refined for real-world outdoor use. The innovative “Knock to Wake” function lets users quickly check battery status with a simple tap, while RGB positioning lights and illuminated USB-C ports provide visibility in low-light or nighttime scenarios. A super-light 5g lanyard-style USB-C cable is included, supporting up to 60W charging to minimize extra gear.
Two distinct modes—Regular for fast charging and Eco for prolonged efficiency—allow users to adapt to their needs, whether sprinting through a quick top-up or stretching power over a long trail run.
Early reviews and hands-on impressions highlight the Gen 4’s compact footprint, superior waterproofing, smarter features like knock-to-wake and RGB indicators, and the efficiency gains from its high-voltage platform. Priced around $80–$85 USD, it’s available through the official Nitecore store and select retailers.
For those chasing minimalism in their gear setup, the NB10000 Gen 4 stands out as a competition-grade option that delivers more power, better protection, and less weight than ever before—proving that even tiny refinements can make a big difference on the trail.
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