Power Bank Feature Creep: EcoFlow's Modular Approach

The power bank market has shifted from simple portable batteries to complex, feature-rich devices. Brands are adding features to justify higher prices, particularly for large-capacity units near the 99Wh airline limit.

EcoFlow exemplifies this trend with a $270 power bank requiring proprietary modules and a desktop dock for full functionality. This represents a move toward modular power systems rather than standalone charging accessories.

There was a time not too long ago when buying a power bank was as easy as choosing the cheapest portable battery that could charge your phone and quickly slip into your pocket, purse, or backpack. The hardest part was deciding whether it was time to ditch USB-A ports.

Recently, however, brands have been slathering on features, many of which are superfluous, in an attempt to both stand out from the commodified pack and justify higher price points. It's especially prevalent amongst the bigger power banks that can also charge laptops, those that butt right up to the "airline friendly" 99Wh (around 27,650mAh) size limit.

The EcoFlow power bank represents a new category of device that prioritizes expandability over simplicity. This $270 power bank requires proprietary modules and a desktop dock to reach its full potential.

Consumers looking for a complete power solution must now consider:

• Proprietary expansion modules
• Dedicated desktop docking stations
• Additional accessories beyond the base unit

This approach transforms the power bank from a standalone accessory into a modular system requiring additional investment for complete functionality.

The trend toward feature creep affects how consumers evaluate power banks. The focus has shifted from simple capacity and port selection to proprietary ecosystems and expansion capabilities.

At CES 2026, this trend became visible as manufacturers showcased devices that blur the line between portable chargers and desktop power stations. The industry is moving toward power banks that serve as the core of a larger charging ecosystem rather than functioning as independent devices.

The power bank industry's shift toward modularity and proprietary features suggests that consumers will need to evaluate total system costs rather than just base unit prices. As devices become more complex, the definition of what constitutes a "power bank" continues to evolve.

Manufacturers are betting that consumers will pay premium prices for expandable systems, potentially at the expense of the simplicity that originally made power banks popular.