Nomad N1: World's thinnest solid-state power bank with AC outlet launches

The power bank market has seen incremental improvements in capacity and charging speeds, but fundamental form factor limitations remain. Nomad's new N1 project, currently live on Kickstarter, aims to break that mold by combining a slim profile with an unusual feature set: a built-in AC outlet and solid-state battery technology. While the campaign claims it's the world's thinnest power bank of its kind, the real story lies in the technical trade-offs and the inherent risks of backing a device slated for delivery in May 2026.

What's New: Solid-State Tech in a Slim Shell

The Nomad N1's headline feature is its use of solid-state battery cells. Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries that use a liquid electrolyte, solid-state batteries replace this with a solid material. This shift offers two primary advantages that Nomad is leveraging. First is safety: solid-state cells are significantly more resistant to thermal runaway, the chain reaction that causes batteries to catch fire or explode when punctured or severely damaged. Second is potential energy density, allowing for more capacity in a smaller physical space.

Nomad claims this technology allows the N1 to measure just 8.27 x 7.87 x 0.63 inches while packing a 20,000mAh capacity. That's roughly the size of a slim paperback book, making it easy to slide into a backpack's back compartment. The company also advertises an IPX4 rating for water resistance and claims it can survive drops from about 3 feet. To manage heat, especially given the active cooling fan, the device supports pass-through charging, allowing you to charge the N1 while it powers another device.

The Power Profile: AC Outlet and USB-C

Where the N1 truly differentiates itself from standard power banks is its power output options. It includes a NEMA 1 AC outlet, the standard two-prong plug used in North America and parts of Japan. This allows users to power or charge devices that require a standard wall plug, such as certain laptops, monitors, or small appliances, directly from the power bank. Nomad specifies a continuous output of 65 watts at 100-240V, with a peak power of 103 watts.

Complementing the AC outlet is a USB Type-C port capable of delivering up to 60 watts. The power bank itself recharges via USB-C at up to 65 watts. This dual-output system makes the N1 a versatile tool for mobile professionals who might need to power a wider range of gear than a typical USB-C-only power bank can handle.

How It Compares: Crowdfunding vs. Market Reality

While the N1's feature set is compelling, it enters a crowded market through a crowdfunding campaign, which introduces significant variables. The reservation price is $169, with a delivery window set for May 2026. This nearly year-and-a-half wait is a long time in consumer electronics, and backers must understand that crowdfunding is not a pre-order. There is a real risk of total financial loss if the project fails to deliver.

Compared to established power banks from brands like Anker or EcoFlow, the N1 offers a unique combination of slimness and AC power. However, existing "portable power stations" from those brands often provide much larger capacities (measured in watt-hours) and more robust AC outputs, albeit in much larger and heavier packages. The N1's innovation is in shrinking that functionality into a truly pocketable form factor, but it remains to be seen if the solid-state technology can deliver on its promises at mass production scale.

Who Should Consider Backing This?

The Nomad N1 is best suited for tech enthusiasts and mobile professionals who prioritize portability above all else but still need the flexibility of an AC outlet. If you frequently work from locations without easy access to power and need to charge a laptop or other AC-powered device alongside your phone and tablet, the N1's form factor is highly appealing.

However, this comes with a major caveat: only back this project if you are comfortable with the financial risk and the long wait time. For those who need a reliable power solution sooner, or who cannot afford the possibility of losing their investment, waiting for a retail release or sticking with proven, immediately available products from established brands is the more prudent choice.