Best Solar Powered Power Banks 2021 | Affordable
Solar powered power banks are the Smart device that uses sunlight as the main energy source and converts and provides electrical energy to charge electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, iPad, or even laptop.
Since the inception of solar-powered power banks, many people love nature and want to preserve and utilize a natural and abundant energy source. These portable power banks are the only choice.
Suppose you are someone who loves to travel and explore the mountainous ranges to calm beaches.
And looking for the perfect power backup for your laptop, tablet, and especially for smartphones. Then you are in the right place.
The extreme adventure and activities need a continuous source of energy, which should be lightweight and portable.
Then the best solar power bank is the must-have an item on the list. This article is about solar power bank review.
Not only this, but you will find all the relevant information you need to know before investing your money in the best and portable solar power bank.
You’ll also learn about charging times, compatibility with cell phones, and much more.
Things to Know Before Buying the Solar Powered Power Bank
Charging Capacity of the power bank
This is the most relevant concern before buying a solar-powered charging bank.
You should ask yourself this question about how often or how long you are planning an outdoor adventure. And how many electric run devices you would be carrying.
Because every device needs a different power capacity for being charged, for instant, laptops or tablets would require more power than smartphones.
Price and quality
You would love to spend money on the products which are matching with your needs and requirement.
You may love the picture of the solar-powered bank flashing on the web page. But that’s all not you have to look.
You must deeply inspect the specification. Its sturdiness, compatibility with your devices.
Size
Another most relevant factor to consider is the size of the power bank.
Compactness is a key feature of any solar-powered charging bank. The smaller the solar-powered charging bank’s size, the more it would be convenient to carry along.
The more massive power banks can cause damage to other devices due to its weight.
Is Your SmartPhone Compatible With Your Solar-Powered Charging Bank?
Many power banks in the market come with unique features but are compatible with your SmartPhone or other necessary devices. These are the most crucial and essential aspects to look for.
Usage and requirement
If you are someone who wants to have an eco-friendly charging bank and you only use it in the bus on your way to school or college, then a compact and.sized one is enough to cater to your needs.
But if you are planning your trip to the jungle or mountainous region and would be in constant need to charge your devices, you might need to pen down all your requirements.
Quality assurance Services
One of the customer’s most pressing concerns should be how the seller provides efficient and professional customer services.
Is the product is covered with a warranty? Complete contact details of the customer service department in case of any damage or maintenance.
So, it’s pretty apparent that you must know all these quality assurance details before buying your product.
The more product information you get your hand on, the better after-sales service you will have. Just in case!
Top 10 Best Solar Powered Power Banks
| Ravpower Solar Charger | 20000mAh | Check Price | |
| Sendowtek Solar Power Bank | 25000mAh | Check Price | |
| Beartwo Portable Solar Charger | 10000mAh | Check Price | |
| Panergy Solar Charger | 26800mAh | Check Price | |
| Be-Charming Tn4-M Solar Power Bank | 26800mAh | Check Price | |
| Big Blue Solar Charger | 5V 28W | Check Price | |
| GoerTek Portable Solar Charger | 25000mAh | Check Price | |
| OUTXE Waterproof Solar Power Bank | 20000mAh | Check Price | |
| Tranmix Solar Charger | 25000mAh | Check Price | |
| Blavor Solar Power Bank | 10000mAh | Check Price |
If you are fond of outdoor activities, this Ravpower solar charge with 20000mAh has a large battery capacity with a fantastic solar charging facility.
It is a requirement of almost every person because everybody has outdoor activity in their daily life, so having such an excellent power bank tool with you will ease your life and tasks from mobile or tablet.
It takes a maximum of 6-8 hours to full the power bank battery but a charger of a 2.4A capacity.
This particular solar power bank’s advantage is that you can charge two devices simultaneously as 5V/2A output ports. The company is offering two USB Cable of short and long lengths.
This strong power bank can charge all Android phones and I phone as well.
It can charge iPhone X 6 times and charge iPhone 8 almost seven-time, whereas the mini pad can also be charged twice as quickly.
It is perfect to say that this device is mind-blowing for outside activities like hiking, camping, and many more.
The body of Ravpower Solar Charger 20000 is very much durable and made up of ABS material, which is considered as the best material in the manufacturing industry.
It is splash-proof, shockproof, sturdy, and can’t be damaged easily due to its fantastic quality and manufacturing.
It is the most suitable power bank for all kinds of users; I recommend that customers buy this fabulous gadget. It is available on amazon.com further brief detail is also there for your convenience.
- 20000mAh Large Capacity Solar Charger with beautiful designs
- Built-in bright LED lights with a sturdy body
- Dual Output Ports for convenience of your partner
Sendowtek has those functions that mostly demand solar power; it has an exact amount of huge Capacity; this Capacity is ideal 25000mAh not so high, not less.
It is the overall best product for all types of customers for travelers for outdoor activists and camping.
It can quickly charge your phone, tablets, and many other electronic devices six times. over, this small power bank has much energy to provide power for your cell phone a week.
It has an 18w power supply that is magnificent for charging your cellular gadgets; it can simultaneously charge three devices, like a relief in outdoor activities.
Compare to another solar power bank, and this power bank provides fast charging.
The battery is made of eco-friendly. The best silicone rubber is used in its manufacturing. ABS’s best quality material has caused this power bank to stronger.
The protector of the battery protects it from rain, dust, and even break. It has Multi-functional long-range light that works as a flashlight.
This unique solar power bank comes with the clip hook. This hook helps in charging the battery while users do hiking and other outdoor activities.
Perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and other emergency use.
Such type of product never comes in online websites like Amazon. It is the best opportunity to grab this super unique and ideal power bank from Amazon.com. And get it delivered to your doorstep.
- The seller gives 12 months of quality assurance along with professional customer services.
- Best gadget for enthusiasts and multitasking
- Ensures fast-charging up to 18 W
- 12 months of quality assurance and professional customer service
- The solar power bank can be charged via a USB port (micro USB port/PD port), the solar charging only is used in an emergency.
Beartow is the most famous and most demanding product in the market due to its ideal and compatible weight, 7.04 oz.
Everybody most probably needs a solar charger for outdoor activities. In this circumstance, the traveler has lots of luggage to carry with them.
So this beautiful small solar power bank will not take much place in your bag and will not heavy your as well.
Another best thing is that the company will give a free hanger for your solar power bank; the user can hook his solar bank with his bag with the help of a small hanger.
This power bank is undoubtedly ideal for 1) camping, 2) hiking, and 3) fishing 4) various outdoor activities.
Another fantastic feature of this excellent solar power bank is that it can charge two cellular phones simultaneously with a maximum output of 5V/2.1A. It can charge a cell phone fast. It takes 4 to 5 hours to charge a cell phone.
There is no need to be worried about ports during rainy and foggy seasons because a free rubber cap is available with this unique solar power bank.
This rubber cap also protects your battery from outside all kinds of weather.
The smallest and cutest power bank, more useable with a standard range of power capacity, is ideal for low budget users.
It can help you in the same way as other expensive power banks are giving but with a minimum option sufficient for 3, 4 days of outdoor trips.
- The rugged surface of the solar power bank safe it from slipping.
- A strong corner makes it durable.
- The built-in mini LED has three modes (Normal /SOS /Strobeura) that are easy to control with only one button.
- SOS mode of a solar power bank is specially designed for emergency use.
Solar power is the demand of travelers because they stay outside all day long; they have no time to charge their cell phones or other gadgets such as pods, tablets, etc.
So the company has designed the best suitable solar power bank for the traveler to reduce their problem regarding charging.
It has five foldable panels of 1.5W that are remarkable. They can deliver 1.5A under sunlight to your cell phone, which is unique because it’s faster, like 4 to 6 times than ordinary other small power banks.
Customers should know that they must have to charge their power banks firstly from wall charges; it will give more strength and energy to your power bank for prolonged use.
This extra fast power bank has three ports for use. The charging speed will blow your mood because its rate is similar to the wall charger.
Super-fast solar phone charger has a built-in 26800mAh larger capacity battery. It is one of the best solar powered power banks.
It has the highest capacity to charge an iPhone 11 for 6.5 times, and Galaxy S10 Plus five times, and iPad Pro 1.9 times.
Its manufacturing is too good because it can resist user from shocks. It can prevent itself from dust, water, and fog due to its well and smooth surface.
The most powerful with the highest Capacity of energy is now available online at amazon.com. It is all in one gadget will all amazing features and functions.
It has the fastest charging capability, with 60 LEDs, and it has two amazing beautiful flashlights of high range.
- Two powerful flashlights with beautiful design and built-in super-fast bright 60-LED panel light.
- User will get two USB Cables with a solar bank.
- The user also gets Travel Pouch, User Manual to briefly understand the solar bank’s functions.
The built-in Grade A Li-Polymer battery, 26800mAh solar portable charger, is mainly for outdoor enthusiasts.
It provides massive battery backup for your long-time travel, which can simultaneously charge 2 USB-powered devices multiple times.
Unique four foldable solar panels that perfectly absorb light and convert the energy into electricity for a nonstop supply of power to keep up your gadgets charged.
A foldable detachable solar panel design is more convenient for you to handheld and carries.
The dual USB output, controlled by a Smart IC, is compatible with various models and automatically adjusts the output to transmit the most appropriate power and protects the device from overcharging, over current, overvoltage, and short circuit.
Additionally, it has Micro Type-C slots and Android Micro USB slots are available, which saves time and money on multiple phones.
With the super bright LED light and Water-resistant design, it can work correctly at night, perfect for outdoor or even on a rainy and snowy day; the only drawback is it doesn’t work underwater.
This power bank comes with a user manual. It also covers a 1- 24-month After-sale Service Card and, most excitingly, covers lifetime technical issues supports.
This is the most unique and super cool, fastest power bank offered by the company on the customers’ demand.
The experienced customer had like this model very much recommended it to other customers.
- Its dual USB outputs are compatible with the various phone models.
- A Built-in LED flashlight covers you for the extra risk of being in dark places.
- It is powerful, not easy to break.
- The body of the power bank is sturdy.
A big blue solar charger has an ammeter that has the capability of measuring current in the circuit.
28 W Solar energy chargers have the value of AMPS, which depends on your cellular device. Sunlight is required to charge this solar charger. The device can be charged with the help of a cable.
In theory, 0.8A and 1A show on display during charging of your device; your device required the input of 1A (such as iPhone), then big blue has remarkable Capacity to charge it.
BIG Blue Exclusive SmartIC Technology has made this solar charger unique from other devices. It provides the fastest charging to your cell phone.
It speedily charges your cell phone. The possible charging speed of this device for a single port is 5V/24A Max, whereas, for dual-port, it is up to 4A Max.
Big blue 5V has a Dual-port that can easily apply to all the Android cellular phones under the Capacity of 5V. On the other hand, Apple devices are also charged with this portable solar power bank.
It has the best high efficiency of converting heat into energy up to 21.5%- 23.5%, and it is a lightweight product (21.0Z). Which makes it one of the best solar powered power banks.
It also has four hooks for hanging—that is why it is easy to carry for outdoor activities. Unique PET Polymer Surface protects your solar panel from the wet fog and occasional rain.
The minimum quantity is available at Amazon. Don’t waste time and grab it as much faster as possible because it is most demanding and consider the bestseller in 2020.
I’m personally using this gadget, and I am super satisfied with this fantastic tool.
- The best solar power bank has a with a zip that will keep devices safe while camping.
- IPX4 has waterproof level high
- It has maximum speed for storing energy and also of charging.
- It has a firm layer on the power bank’s surface that protects from water and fog.
- IPX4 has a waterproof level, but unfortunately, the ports and ammeter have no ability of water-resistant.
With 25000mAh Ultra High Capacity, it is very much enough to charge an iPhone XS almost 7.4 times. A Galaxy S9 Plus for 5.7 maximum times and iPad Pro like 1.6 times!
It is observed that other solar power cannot charge iPods.
Two charging methods are available such as a portable solar power bank with a powered adapter or other with direct solar.
The best solar battery bank has blue indicators light, which turns on when the user charges the phone with the adapter.
In contrast, the green indicator light turns on when the user charges the cellular phone with a solar panel.
GoerTek charger has three USB ports that can charge almost three devices simultaneously so that you can share it with your best friend.
It has 36 LEDs, The USB bank is environmentally friendly due to its material, and such as durable body, it is very stylish and also decent.
36 LED lights with excellent lighting function; this portable solar power bank is the best for outdoor events.
I highly recommend this solar power bank to users for its magnifying properties and functions that demand almost every portable solar charger user.
- It has 36 led lights that help users in many tasks, especially in the night.
- This solar is coming with a free carabineer.
- It is also coming with free 1 USB.
- It has incredible energy of 25000mAh, which is stored in a portable solar bank.
OUTXE best solar cell phone charger is designed explicitly for outdoor Trips: this model is waterproof and dustproof.
The best thing is this device is shock-resistant. It is non-slippery to be charged on the floor or be hooked easily due to its fair manufacturing.
Military-grade kind construction made up the device is fast in charging; it is usable in all kinds of weather for outdoor activities, but to capture sunlight is essential. It safe itself from drops and fog while outdoors trips.
OUTXE is one of the best solar powered power banks, features 4A Dual input ports for the fastest Recharging for both Type C and Micro USB.
This best portable solar power bank is super-fast and rechargeable in 6 hours; it can save your charging time comparatively 50% before time than other solar banks.
The best solar cell phone charger is quick in Charging like 4X faster than regular power bank devices.
It provides fast charging speeds up to a limit of 18W, the best part of this device is it can charge compatible devices like almost up to 80% in only 35 minutes.
It is the most demanding product in the market and now are available at online stores as well. Amazon is the seller of this most demanding power bank.
- This fantastic device is environment friendly.
- This device has been built-in with a 2W energy saver.
- It can recharge the battery automatically under significant sunlight only for emergency purposes during outdoor activities.
Tranmix Solar Charger with 25000mAh is magnificent for charging your cell phone without any wire.
This wireless power bank has four ultra-large foldable energy-consuming power panels. Its maximum power in front of the sun can reach up to 6W / 1.2A.
It is ideal compact enough to pack into any backpack for outdoor activities or even in any emergency kit.
It’s Colossal Capacity with high-quality (lithium polymer battery) and its unique multiple protection systems are the best thing about this device.
It is best for all kinds of Android (Samsung Galaxy), or even for iPhone, many power banks cannot charge a tablet.
Still, it has much energy to charge even tablets as well, and the user can charge near about ten times a Smartphone.
Fastest Speed of Charging cell phone is its function and has a chip that avoids overloading your cell phone charging. This chip also prevents the power bank from short circuits and overflow current.
Users can charge at a time two cell phones with this power bank. A phone with a capacity of 2000mAh can easily fully charge within 1-1.5 hours.
On the other hand, a tablet of 5000mAh can be charged in 2.5 to 3 hours approximately. The USB port has a waterproof cover, which can prevent it from dust or water.
This power bank is right to partner for your trip.
- The best solar battery bank IP65 is Waterproof.
- This device has a function of built-in super bright LED emergency light.
- The USB port of the best solar cell phone charger has a waterproof cover, preventing it from dust or water.
- The package includes 1) a solar charger, 2) a user manual, and 3) a Micro USB cable.
Wireless and Solar Power with 10,000mAh power bank is the best choice for the users and highly recommended for its multiple benefits and features.
Blavor is not just a wireless power bank. It is also a wireless charger that takes sunlight and converts its energy to cellular phones of other compatible devices such as iPhone (XR/ XR MAX/ XS/ X/ 8/ 8plus) Samsung Galaxy (S9/S9plus S8/S8plus)and other mobile devices.
It has controllable solar light intensity conversion properties of converting solar energy into cellular devices. Fully charge it before moving for outdoor trips.
Ideal Charging Time of power bank has also been tested many times. Hence, it’s proved that this power bank charges cell phones faster than other power banks in this price category.
This power bank required sir hours to recharge entirely with a 5V/2A adapter; it charges cell phone iPhone7plus up to 2.2times faster; on the other hand, iPhone X up to 2.3times more quickly.
The body of the power bank is sturdy, durable, and has an ideal compact Size. Premium ABS materials are used for power bank charger, and a lithium polymer battery is fitted in this device.
All the power mentioned above banks is expensive. Still, this specific power bank with all the best features is available on Amazon with reasonable that can fulfill your requirement with a minimum amount compared to others.
It is also the best solar power bank for camping an outdoor.
- The ideal solar cell phone charger is also Dustproof.
- Dual Flashlight is fitted in the device.
- Compass Kit is also free with this incredible power bank.
- Provided with the best handy tool for outdoor activities,
- The power bank is best for camping, cycling, fishing, traveling, hiking, and beaches.
Benefits of Using Solar Powered Power Banks
In this technologically advanced era, solar powered power banks are life saviors providing an efficient and reliable energy source.
You can count on them to be your reliable travel and outdoor companion. They bring numerous benefits and easiness to outdoor experiences. Below are the most prominent benefits of having a portable solar-powered charger.
1- First and foremost, you don’t have to rely on any other electrical source when you have the right equipment to charge your cell phones, tablets, or even laptops. This benefit cuts the additional gadgets’ costs that you need to carry along.
2- They are light in weight and portable devices, which means you can carry them whenever you want. Many solar-powered chargers are wireless too. All you need it the right Capacity one in your backpack.
3- They are the most dynamic and versatile gadgets that only need natural resources (Sunlight) to keep you in the move. It makes its user hassle-free. And it also makes sure that you won’t run out of the power shortage.
4- Many solar-powered chargers have enough charging capacity, which can be utilized 2 to 3 times on average. So it’s durability double its worth.
Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. This means that I get a small commission when you purchase something from my links, AT NO ADDITIONAL COST to you. Thanks for the support!
Best Portable Solar Charger for Backpacking or Camping
Going out into the wilderness is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, but it can also be a great way to disconnect from all of your devices.
If you’re looking for a way to keep your devices powered up while you’re out in nature, then a portable solar charger is the perfect solution.
They come in all shapes and sizes, and there is one perfect for every type of backpacker or camper.
Whether you’re looking for a small solar charger to keep your phone powered up or a large panel that can power your laptop, there is a solar charger out there for you!
Why a portable solar charger is handy
- Solar chargers come in all shapes and sizes.
- There is one perfect solar charger for every type of camper or backpacker.
- A small solar charger can keep your phone powered up, while a larger panel can power your laptop.
- If you want to go out into the wilderness without worrying about battery life, then this is the solution.
Best Portable Solar Charger for Backpacking
Charge all your electronics with a high-capacity solar power bank…
Look, we’ve all seen movies with a scene where someone’s cell phone battery dies at the worse possible moment.
Having one more minute of battery power to make a call for help could have saved their life. Not so lucky!
That won’t happen with you because you’ll have the best portable solar charger for backpacking, right?
You won’t be left staring at a useless cell phone with a dead battery when the crap hits the fan.
We’ve all been there and want to help make your backpacking trip safe.
But – look, you can accept or reject the portable solar chargers listed below because it’s not up to us to keep your devices charged…
Why do you need a Portable Solar Charger on your Backpack
The problem that happens with cell phones, flashlights, and other digital power-hungry electronic devices is their always consuming power, even when they are turned off.
The reason being is they have a memory that needs to keep setting and configurations.
And the smartphone is the worst because they are always checking for updates for all the apps you have installed or for Wi-Fi hotspots.
Even when you’re hiking, your phone is using its wireless connection to pull down updates for Android or iPhone OS or apps.
You can turn your phone off to extend the battery life, but it’s still using power to hold the setting.Our list below has the 10 best selling portable chargers that are designed for the outdoors.
These chargers are waterproof and rugged, just snap it on your backpack and let the solar panel(s) go to work.
Imagine this, all of these chargers have a large capacity battery where they can store the power that’s been generated while you’re on your adventure.
Here’s the plan for you.
Check out the list below and see if there is a picture of a portable solar charger that interests you.
Carefully review the list of features next to each picture for how many USB ports, mAh rating, solar panel design, flashlight, etc.
Then, click on the check product details button to read the review that other buys have left. Also, read all the technical detail about the charger.
The goal of this plan is for you to feel good about the choice of your portable solar charger before you buy.
Now that you’ve reviewed them, which best seller will it be?
Let me guess, you like them all…
I know, they’re all awesome, but one of these portable solar chargers must seem better…
Hey, don’t let the fact that they all look too good keep you from choosing one, especially if you’re leaving on your trip soon.
Remember, you don’t want to be the only person stuck with a dead cell phone.
And what’s worse – you become the person asking if you can charge your stuff with your buddy’s portable solar charger. Not cool!
But that’s not going to happen to you because somewhere on this list of portable solar chargers is one for you.
People also ask
The abbreviation mAh stands for milliamps per hour and is the unit that indicates how long (per hour) the power bank can deliver a certain amount of current (mA). A standard adapter with a smartphone has an output of 1000 mA. Read more…
Solar panels use the energy from daylight, as opposed to sunlight, to produce electricity so panels do not need direct sunlight to work. It is photons in natural daylight which is converted by solar panels cells to produce electricity. Read more…
Cell Phones use approximately 2 to 6 watts when charging, while a charger left plugged in without a phone will consume 0.1 to 0.5 of a watt. Read more…
Thanks for reading, here’s another list of best sellers you might also want to see about the best ultralight solar chargers for backpacking…
Please let us know which best portable solar charger for backpacking you decide to take and what was the difference?
Best Sellers last updated on 2023-05-30 at 04:34 AZT
About The Author
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Best solar power banks to keep your devices powered outdoors
Whether you are going camping, climbing, hiking, cycling or fishing, a good power bank that keeps your devices juiced up is a good investment. Solar power banks are growing in popularity as more people go outdoors and need their devices powered.
Solar power banks are designed to be charged by mini solar panels attached to the power bank. However, this is only given as option for emergency scenarios because Solar charging is super slow. Most solar power banks support dual-charging mode; one via wall socker and another using the sun. Most vendors advice you to charge the power bank via wall power source which is a lot faster. Solar power banks range from as low as 20 to as much as 45 depending on features.
So lets dive in to some of the best solar power banks you can buy right now. Summarily;
- Cheapest solar power bank – BEARTWO 10000mAh Power bank – 19.98
- Best overall with wireless charging solar power bank – Blavor 10,000mAh Qi wireless Solar Charger Power – 29.99
- Foldable four-panel solar power bank – Tranmix 25000mAh solar phone charger – 39.99
- Best affordable fast-charging solar power bank – EGRD 30,000mAh wireless solar power bank – 35.99
- Best high-capacity solar powerbank – Feeke 32800 Qi wireless solar power bank – 47.98
BEARTWO 10000mAh Solar Power bank
This Beartwo 10,000mAh solar powerbank balances design, ease of use and pricing quite well. You can take it out for a hike, fishing, cycling or camping. While it can be charged via using the sun, the vendor advices that you charge it at home using electricity and only use the sun in emergency situations. That’s because it charges really slowly with the sun because of the size of the solar panels. Otherwise, this solar powerbank is rugged enough for outdoors, has dual output ports and is IP67 Waterproof. It’s just 19.98 on amazon.com.
SOARAISE 26800mAh Solar Power Bank
Looking for a high capacity solar power bank, then the soaraise 26800mAh power bank is a good option. This power bank is rugged enough for the outdoors and is designed with 1.9W panel on one side. It has two 10W USB-A outputs ports and one 15W USB-C bidirectional port for charging it as well as charging USB-C devices. It has 60 bright LED LEDs with SOS-strobe modes. It’s 36.99 on amazon.com.
Other worthwhile Solar powerbanks with the same capacity and price point but with additional 5W wireless charging is the Hiluckey 26800mAh wireless solar charger, Riapow 26800mAh solar power bank, aonidi 26800mAh solar power bank at the same price of 37.
YOESOID 20000mAh Solar Charger
This solar powerbank comes with a 1.5W solar panel on one side, two USB-A ports with maximum power output of 10W and a micro-USB port for charging. You also get two LED lights with SOS functionality which is ideal for emergency situations. It’s IP65 water and dust-proof. You can charge it with both wall power and the sun, but note that charging it with the sun takes a considerable amount of time. It’s 22.99 on amazon.
You can get a higher capacity powerbank for an additional 6. The GoerTek is 25000 mAh solar powerbank with 36 LEDs, 3 output ports for 28.89.
Blavor 10,000mAh Solar Wireless Power Bank
This solar powerbank also supports Qi wireless charging. It’s equipped with two output USB-A ports and one USB-C bidirectional charge, dual-flashlights for the night and a compass kit. It’s well built and rugged with rubber guards on the corners to make it shock-proof. It’s IPX5 water proof as well as dust-proof. This powerbank is Qi certified so you can wirelessly charge compatible devices too such as smartwatches, earbuds, smartphones. It’s highly rated and goes for 28.99 on amazon. Anker, a more premium brand for mobile charging will take you back an additional 10 with their Anker PowerCore Solar 10000mAh dual-port solar powerbank.
If you’re looking for a higher capacity version of this powerbank, then you can top up another 20. You’ll get 2 additional output ports, 20000mAh battery, upto 10W on wireless charging and QC 3.0 fast-charging all for 48.99.
IEsafy 26800mAh Solar Charger
This solar powerbank comes with 4 foldable solar panels giving upto four times faster recharging speed. It has two 10W USB-A output ports, is IP65 waterproof, has LED flashlights with SOS mode and comes with a portable compass kit. It takes about 6 hours to charge this powerbank from 1 to blinking 4th bar with the solar panels which isn’t fast but is good enough. This solar powerbank is 40.99 on amazon.
Another capable foldable four solar panel power bank is the 25000mAh Tranmix power bank at 39.99 or the more premium ADDTOP Solar Charger 25000mAh Portable Solar Power Bank at 45.99.
EGRD 30,000mAh wireless solar power bank
This power bank is a power horse. It has a high capacity 30000mAh battery, 1.5W solar panel, 4 USB-A output ports(15W on 3 USB-A ports and one QC 3.0), so you can charge upto 4 devices simultaneously, a bi-directional USB-C power delivery 18W port and one more additional Micro-USB charging port. It’s also Qi compatible, so you can wireless charge compatible devices. You can upto four lightning modes, its rugged with a hook to attach to your backpack and drop resistant and has waterproof support. At 30.59 on amazon, this monster solar power bank is reasonably priced.
Feeke 32800mAh Qi wireless solar power bank
This Feeke solar powerbank is a high capacity 32800mAh solar power bank with support for wireless charging. It has one micro-USB input port(10W), two USB-A output ports(15W) and one bi-directional USB-C port(15W). It’s also Qi-compatible, so you can wireless charge compatible devices. This powerbank looks and feels very rugged. It’s IP66 Rainproof, Dustproof and Shockproof. It also comes with a 200 lumens flashlight with SOS mode which will come in handy in dark and emergency situations. This Solar power bank goes for 47.98 on amazon.
Feature image: Unsplash.com
Buying guide for best solar chargers
We live in a world where we rely heavily on our phones and other electronic devices. We use them to communicate, to enjoy entertainment, to get directions from point A to point B. One way to make sure you never run out of juice, no matter how far you are from a power outlet, is to invest in a solar charger.
Below, you’ll find our full guide to solar chargers. Read on to discover the benefits of solar chargers, the different types available, and important tips to help you maximize your investment. When you’re ready to buy, scroll on up to the top of this screen to view our most esteemed recommendations.
Benefits of a solar charger
Why should you buy a solar charger? What are the benefits of owning one? We answer these questions below.
- Solar chargers are useful for faraway excursions in which you won’t have access to electricity. Campers, hikers, and other outdoor fans can benefit from a solar charger.
- Many modern solar chargers are extremely lightweight and portable. It’s easy to pack a solar charger and take it with you wherever you go.
- Solar power is a completely renewable energy source. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly way to power your electronics, this is it.
- If you like to spend a lot of time outdoors, you can charge your devices for free while doing something you enjoy.
Some solar chargers have loops, grommets, or straps that attach to a backpack so you can charge your devices while walking.
Types of solar chargers
You can find three main types of solar chargers on the market: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and CIGS (which stands for copper, indium, gallium and selenide) solar chargers.
Monocrystalline solar chargers
- Monocrystalline solar chargers are rugged and durable. They tend to last longer than CIGS models.
- As long as it’s sunny out, monocrystalline solar chargers are the most effective variety.
- Newer foldable monocrystalline solar chargers are fairly light and portable.
- Monocrystalline solar chargers aren’t as lightweight or compact as CIGS chargers.
- In partially shaded conditions, monocrystalline solar chargers aren’t very effective.
Price: Basic low-power monocrystalline solar chargers start at less than 20. Powerful high-end models tend to cost 175 to 200.
Polycrystalline solar chargers
- Polycrystalline solar chargers tend to be the most inexpensive option.
- Most polycrystalline solar chargers are very durable and long-lasting.
- Polycrystalline solar chargers are similar to monocrystalline models, albeit slightly less efficient.
Price: We found basic micro polycrystalline solar panels for as little as 5 to 7, but they’re not extremely powerful. You can get a stronger 40-watt model for around 50, though some powerful high-end options cost over 100.
Cigs solar chargers
- CIGS solar chargers are the most lightweight option available.
- Since CIGS solar chargers are made from flexible fabric, they can be rolled up like a poster and put in a bag when not in use, making them very portable.
- CIGS solar chargers are significantly more effective than monocrystalline and polycrystalline models in overcast and partially shady conditions.
- Due to their thinness, CIGS solar chargers aren’t as durable or long-lasting as either crystalline type.
- CIGS aren’t as efficient as monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar chargers in sunny conditions.
Price: CIGS solar chargers can cost anywhere from 50 to 300, depending on their power and quality.
A good solar charger should have auto-restart technology.” If it stops charging because the sun disappears behind a Cloud, it will automatically start charging again once the sun returns.
Considerations for selecting a solar charger
Wattage
The wattage of a solar charger dictates how powerful it is and how quickly it will charge your devices. Basic solar chargers may pack less than five watts of power, whereas the most powerful units can yield 100 watts.
While a four- or five-watt charger can tackle your average smartphone, it will take three to four hours to get it to a full charge. Ideally, you should opt for at least a seven-watt charger for a single phone to speed up the charging time. If you plan to charge multiple smartphones at the same time, or if you’re charging a power-hungry device like a tablet, consider a 15-watt charger. For a laptop, DSLR camera, or video-recording equipment, we recommend a solar charger with a minimum of a 30 watts.
Output power
The output power of a solar charger is measured in amps. Find out the best amperage for the devices you want to charge, and choose accordingly. If your charger has more than one port, the manufacturer may list the output power for all the ports combined or for each port individually. Be sure to double-check this spec to make sure you know what the manufacturer is referring to.
Weight
How important is the weight of your solar charger to you? If you’ll only be using it on camping trips where you can drive right up to your pitching site, weight may not be of huge importance. But if you’ll be taking it on multi-day hiking trips where you really want to keep the weight of your pack down, a lightweight solar charger would be the best option.
Charge time
Most manufacturers give a rough idea of how long a solar charger needs to power an average device. Of course, the charge time will vary depending on a number of factors, including the battery size, the power requirements of the device you’re charging, and how sunny it is.
If you’ll be using your solar charger in an area that’s not overly sunny, opt for the most powerful model you can afford. The extra power will help you take advantage of any fleeting minutes of sunshine.
Tips
Estimated charge times are usually based on perfect full-sun conditions, so adjust your expectations if you’ll be using it somewhere further up north.
FAQ
Q. Is a solar charger capable of charging multiple devices at once? A. Many solar chargers come with multiple USB ports so you can charge several devices at the same time. This is ideal if you’re going on a family trip and want just one charger for the whole party. However, be sure to consider the wattage of your chosen charger; a low-power charger will take a long time to charge more than one device.
Q. Can I recharge a device that uses a 12V cigarette port with a solar charger? A. While you can get adaptors to charge a range of different devices that don’t use a USB port, most solar chargers aren’t capable of tackling items that charge from a 12V cigarette port.
Q. Does the listed weight of a solar charger include all cables, batteries, and other accessories? A. The listed weight of a solar charger can sometimes be misleading. While you’d expect the listed weight to include all essential accessories, some manufacturers only list the weight of the panel itself. If weight is important to you, be sure to check what the listed weight includes.
Solar Power Bank Not Charging (Causes Solutions)
Are you an outdoor enthusiast who relies on a solar power bank for your adventures? Maybe you have a power bank as a reliable backup for emergencies? Either way, discovering that your solar power bank isn’t charging can be a frustrating experience. In this post, we discuss five possible reasons behind solar power bank charging issues and provide practical solutions to help you troubleshoot and fix each problem. By following these tips, you can ensure that your solar power bank is always ready to charge your devices, no matter where you are or what situation you’re facing.
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Reasons your solar power bank is not charging
There are many reasons why your solar power bank might not be charging. Here are the five most common ones:
The battery has reached the end of its life
Unfortunately, no battery lasts forever. It’s inevitable that it’ll reach the end of its lifespan after performing a certain number of cycles. If you’ve had your solar power bank for some time, your battery might have lost its ability to hold a charge.
You’re not using it properly
Although technically, you use your solar power bank while it’s charging (in an emergency, for instance), this practice isn’t recommended. Doing so frequently may result in your solar power bank not charging or charging erratically. When you do this, the power banks’ battery is in line (or in series) with the gadget. The result is a higher power draw which leads to excessive heating that can damage your battery.
Your solar panel isn’t getting enough sunlight
A common misconception is that the solar panel in your solar power bank can generate electricity on a hot day, even when placed in the shade. That is not true — solar panels require direct sunlight to work effectively. Additionally, solar power banks require a minimum amount of luminous flux per area unit (also called lux). If they don’t receive the minimum amount of lux, they won’t start charging via solar. The following image showing the charging instructions of a standard solar power bank serves as an example. Notice that it requires a minimum of 25,000 LUX sunlight to charge via solar.
Wrong or broken charger/power cable
If you’re trying to charge your solar power bank using a USB charger and it isn’t charging, the issue might not be your power bank. It could instead be the charger or the cable. Make sure you’re using the correct charger, one that delivers the proper voltage and current (as required by your solar power bank). If it still doesn’t work, the charger (or just its power cable) could be broken.
Excessive battery drainage
We recommend that you recharge your solar power bank before you drain it completely. If you drain your power bank completely, it’ll require more energy to get going again instead of charging it from a 50% state of charge. As a result, if you deplete your solar power bank entirely, it might take even longer to charge with solar, or in a worst-case scenario, it might not charge at all. Related reading: How To Use A Solar Power Bank – A Helpful Guide
How do I know if my solar power bank is charging?
Charge your power bank properly. Doing this ensures that it provides you with power when you need it.
Led indicators
Most Solar Power Banks on the market have four tiny LED indicators that flash progressively when charging. Although they may vary in size and color, you can quickly identify them on your Solar Power Bank. Advanced models display different LED colors to indicate the charging source. After reading the User Manual from a few different Solar Power Bank models, we’ve noticed that for most models:
- Blue LED: Indicates USB port charging
- Green LED: Indicates solar charging
Furthermore, the LEDs indicate the state of charge when the solar power bank isn’t charging (and the LEDs aren’t flashing). In this case, the lights represent:
- 1 LED on = 25% state of charge
- 2 LEDs on = 50% state of charge
- 3 LEDs on = 75% state of charge
- 4 LEDs on = 95%-100% state of charge
Logically, when fully charged, your solar power bank should have its 4 LED Indicators active. As it discharges, the indicators gradually turn off.
Because of the variety of models, you might find yourself with a device that indicates charging differently than the way we described.
For this reason, we strongly advise that you read your device’s user manual. There, you’ll find all the information you need, specific to your solar power bank model.
Ways to fix a solar power bank that won’t charge
If your solar power bank isn’t charging, don’t panic! Here are a few things you can try to get it up and running again:
Add extra solar panels
If you’re trying to charge your power bank with solar energy after draining it completely, it may not charge at all.
Why? The surface area of your power bank’s solar panel might be too small to generate enough electricity to get the redox reactions in the battery going.
In this case, adding extra solar panels might fix the problem. You can attach/connect small solar panels to your solar power bank (if it supports this addition) – you can easily find them online.
This will increase the solar input of your power bank until it recharges to at least 50%. After this point, the electricity generated by your main solar panel (without the extra ones) will probably be enough to continue charging your power bank.
Try charging it with electricity from a wall outlet
As mentioned above, your power bank might be too drained to start recharging only with the small energy input the solar panel provides. If this happens, don’t give up on your solar power bank just yet. Pumping up some juice from a wall outlet might bring it back to life.
Place it in direct sunlight for an extended period
Solar Power Banks can take over 50 hours to recharge using solar energy. Considering how many hours of sunlight are in a day, it could take an entire week to recharge your solar power bank.
For this reason, it may seem like it isn’t charging, when in reality, it’s just taking a long time.
To maximize sunlight absorption and overall efficiency, one way of speeding up this process is to place your solar power bank in direct sunlight for an extended period.
Check for any loose connections
A more elaborate way to fix your solar power bank requires some skills. If you have previous experience repairing electronics, you could try opening your solar power bank to check for any fraying or loose connections.
For instance, your solar power bank might not be charging because the wire that connects the solar panel to the circuit board is loose.
In this case, using a soldering iron to solder the loose wire will fix the broken.
Check if the battery is dead
This one also requires exposing the inner pieces of your solar power bank.
Depending on the battery’s chemistry (and its nominal voltage), you can tell if it’s dead by using a voltmeter to check its voltage.
If you conclude that it’s dead, the only way to fix your solar power bank would be to replace the battery. This procedure might not be cost-effective, so do your research before buying a replacement battery.
Here’s a little tip: You can also use the voltmeter to measure the output voltage of the solar panel. Maybe the battery is fine, but the solar panel isn’t generating any electricity.
If you’ve exhausted all your options, and cannot find a way to fix your solar power bank, it’s time to invest in a new one.
This video from Bushcraft Zone discusses the top solar power banks you’ll find on the market: