The best solar generators for 2023, tested and reviewed
Tap the power of the sun to meet your power needs wherever you may roam.
This is a solid all-around mix of features and affordability.
This powerful pack is easy to transport to a site.
This is the pick if you need lots of scalable capacity.
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If you’re camping and want to charge up your lantern, phone, or other devices, a solar generator sure would be convenient. Or perhaps you’re van-living your way across the country, and you need to work on the go and keep your conversion electrified—yet another solid case for a solar-powered generator. Whatever the case, few things are as useful in today’s tech-driven world as source of reliable, renewable power. The best solar generators can reliably and sustainably meet various energy needs, and we’re here to help you find the right one for you.
- Best overall:Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro
- Best high-capacity:Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro
- Best for frequent use:Anker 767 Portable Power Station Solar Generator
- Best for camping:Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core
- Best for off-grid living:Bluetti AC200 Max
- Best for homes:EcoFlow Delta Pro
- Best portable:Anker 545
- Best budget:Jackery Explorer 300
How we chose the best solar generators
As an avid outdoorsman, I’ve had the opportunity to test an extremely wide range of outdoor gear, including mobile and off-grid electrification equipment like solar-powered generators, as well as inverter and dual-fuel generators. These became particularly essential when the pandemic forced my travels to become domestic rather than international, which prompted me to outfit a van for long-term road-tripping.
To bring my work along for the ride, I needed a constant power source to charge my laptop, a portable fridge, lighting, and a myriad of devices and tools … even ebikes. As a result, I’ve tried all the leading portable power stations (and plenty that aren’t leading, too), so I know precisely what separates the best from the blah. I’ve written all about it (and other outdoor tech) for publications, including the Daily Beast, Thrillist, the Manual, and more. There were cases when my own opinion resulted in a tie, and I, therefore, looked to reviews from actual customers to determine which solar generators delivered the most satisfaction to the most users.
The best solar generators: Reviews Recommendations
The solar generators on this list span a wide range of budgets, from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. They span several use cases, from camping to a backup for your home. Only you know all the factors that make one of these the best solar generator for you, but we think that one of these will get the job done.
Best overall: Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro
Buy it used or refurbished: eBay
Why it made the cut: This Jackery solar generator delivers the best blend of capacity, input/output capability, portability, and durability.
- Storage capacity: 2,160Wh
- Input capacity: 1,200W
- Output capacity: 2,200W (4,400W surge)
- Dimensions: 15.1 x 10.5 x 12.1 inches
- Weight: 43 lbs
- Price: 2,498
- Fast charging and outstanding capacity
- Durable and easy to use
- Plenty of ports
- Can connect to six 200W solar panels
The biggest portable power station from Jackery, a leading solar generator manufacturer, the Explorer 2000 Pro offers a tremendous 2,160 watt-hours of power, making it capable of charging a full camping setup for a few days. When plugged into six 200W solar panels, an upgrade over the four-panel setup available on the Jackery Explorer 1500, you can fully charge this portable power station in just 2-2.5 hours. That’s less than half the time of the smaller model.
On top of all that, it’s extremely user-friendly. Numerous output ports ensure that you can plug in a wide range of devices and electrical equipment. Its functions are highly intuitive, and the digital display is easy to understand. Like other Jackery generators, it’s incredibly durable, too. The one potential downside is its weight: At 43 pounds, it’s a bit heavy for its size. Even so, for all the power you can store, and the Rapid-charging time, the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro will keep the lights on wherever you need power.
For more on the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro, check out our full review.
Best high-capacity: Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro
- Ample power storage for long trips or outages
- Sturdy handles and wheels make it easy to move
- Smooth design makes it easy to load and unload
- High peak output for power-intensive tasks
- Lots of ports for connectivity
This is the big sibling to our best overall pick. Inside the Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro, you’ll find 3,024Wh of power storage, which is enough to power even large devices for extended periods of time. It can charge a high-end smartphone more than 100 times on a single charge. It can also power full-on appliances in an RV or emergency situation.
Despite its large capacity, we learned firsthand that the Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro is relatively easy to move around. Sturdy handles molded into its case make it easy to pick up, while an extending handle and wheels make it easy to roll around at the campsite or any other location.
It can charge in less than three hours from a standard outlet or, under optimal conditions with the 200W solar panels, it can fill up as quickly as eight hours. That full solar array can get large and unwieldy, but a smaller setup can still provide ample charging if you don’t need to max out the capacity daily.
This portable power station offers the best of everything we loved about the Explorer 2000 Pro, there’s just more of it. When you’re living the van life, powering an RV, or trying to ride out a power outage, more is definitely better if you can justify the extra cost.
Best for frequent use: Anker 767 Portable Power Station Solar Generator
Why it made the cut: High capacity and fast charging make this long-lasting battery a solid everyday driver.
- Charges up to 80% in less than two hours
- Solid output and storage capacity
- Optional battery pack doubles capacity
- LiFePO4 batteries survive more charge cycles than traditional models
- Plenty of ports
- Built-in handle and wheels for transport
Anker has equipped its massive portable power station with LiFePO4 batteries, which stand up much better to repeat charging and discharging over the long term than common lithium-ion cells. Anker claims it can charge and discharge up to 3,000 times before it reaches 80% battery health compared to 500 in a similar lithium-ion setup. While I haven’t had the chance to run it through 3,000 cycles, LiFePO4 batteries have a well-earned reputation for longevity.
Regarding overall performance, the Anker 767 does everything you’d want a unit with these specs to do. The bad weather has given me [Executive Gear Editor Stan Horaczek] ample chances, unfortunately, to test it in real-world situations.
The built-in battery offers a 2048Wh capacity and pumps out up to 2,400W. It does so through four standard AC outlets, an RV outlet, two 120W car outlets, two 12W USB-A ports, and three 100W USB-C ports.
I used it during a blackout to keep our Wi-Fi running while charging my family’s devices. Filling a phone from zero barely makes a dent in the power station’s capacity, and it ran the router for several hours with plenty of juice left.
In another instance, it powered our small meat freezer for four hours before the power came back on with some juice still left in the tank. It does what it promises.
There are a few nice extra touches as well. Built-in wheels and an extendable handle allow it to roll like carry-on luggage. Unfortunately, those are necessary inclusions because it weighs a hefty 67.3 pounds. It’s manageable but definitely heavy compared to its competition.
The Anker 767 is compatible with the company’s 200W solar panels, which fold up for easy transportation. I mostly charged the unit through my home’s AC power, a surprisingly quick process. The 767 Portable Power Station can go from flat to more than 80% charge in less than a half hour with sufficient power. It takes about two hours to get it fully juiced.
Anker also offers a mobile app that connects to the power station via Bluetooth if you want to control it without actually going over and touching it.
Best for camping: Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core
Buy it used or refurbished: eBay
Why it made the cut: Thanks to its outstanding portability, high storage capacity, and Yeti’s famous durability, the Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core is great for packing along for camping or van-living.
- Storage capacity: 983Wh
- Input capacity: 600W
- Output capacity: 1,200W (2,400W surge)
- Dimensions: 9.86 x 15.25 x 10.23 inches
- Weight: 31.68 lbs
- Price: 1,198.95
- Highly portable
- Incredible durability
- Rapid recharge rate
- Plenty of plugs
Yeti is long-renowned for making some of the best outdoor gear money can buy, so when the company launched its Goal Zero line of solar generators, it was no surprise that they turned out to be awesome. While the whole line is great, the 1000 Core model’s balance between capacity and portability makes it perfect for taking on the road.
While the 1000 Core has a third less capacity than our top pick, it charges up faster, making it a great option for Rapid solar replenishment. That said, its capacity is no slouch, offering 82 phone charges, 20 for a laptop, or upwards of 15 hours for a portable fridge (depending on wattage). Suffice it to say, that it’s more than capable of powering your basic camping gear.
Beyond its charging capabilities, the Goal Zero 1000 Core excels at camping thanks to its hearty build quality. Built super tough—like pretty much everything Yeti makes—its exterior shell provides solid protection.
The biggest issue it presents is the cost. Like pretty much everything Yeti produces, its price tag isn’t small. While there are other 1000-level solar generators for less, this one offers a great balance of power storage and portability.
For more on the Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core, check out our full review.
Best for off-grid living: Bluetti AC200 Max
Buy it used or refurbished: eBay
Why it made the cut: Thanks to its high solo capacity and ability to daisy-chain with additional batteries, the Bluetti AC200 Max is perfect for bringing power off the grid.
- Storage capacity: 2,048Wh standalone, expandable up to 8,192Wh
- Input capacity: 1,400W
- Output capacity: 2,200W (4,800W surge)
- Dimensions: 16.5 x 11 x 15.2 inches
- Weight: 61.9 lbs
- Price: 1,999
- Massive capacity
- Daisy-chain capability
- Lightning-fast input capacity
- 30A RV plug and two wireless charging pads
- Surprisingly affordable for what it offers
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a solar generator better suited for living off the grid for an extended period than the Bluetti AC200 Max. It boasts a substantial 2,048Wh capacity, allowing you to power your whole life off it longer than most portable generators. Even better, you can daisy-chain multiple Bluetti batteries, expanding its capacity to a massive 8.192Wh. That’s flat-out enormous and translates into the ability to power a full-sized fridge for over a day or several hours of air conditioning. For the more modest needs of people who are used to living off a generator, it will last for a very long time.
At the same time, the AC200 Max has an outstanding input capacity of 1,400W. That means you can plug in a pretty hefty array of solar panels to replenish its stores quickly. This allows you to keep your off-grid setup going with little to no interruption. It also features some specialty charging options, including a 30A plug, which lets you plug it directly into an RV, and multiple wireless charging pads for smaller devices.
Best for homes: EcoFlow Delta Pro
Why it made the cut: The EcoFlow Delta Pro delivers the standalone and expandable power capacity necessary to power your entire home.
- Storage capacity: 3,600Wh standalone, expandable up to 25,000Wh
- Input capacity: 6,500W
- Output capacity: 3,600W (7,200W surge)
- Dimensions: 25 x 11.2 x 16.4 inches
- Weight: 99 lbs
- Price: 3,699
- Enormous capacity
- Daisy-chain capability
- 30A RV plug
- Lightning-fast input capacity
- Wi-Fi and Smartphone connectivity
If you’re looking for the best solar generator for home backup in the event of a power outage, the EcoFlow Delta Pro stands apart from the pack, thanks to an unrivaled power and output capacity. The Delta Pro alone packs a 3,600Wh wallop, and you can expand that to 25,000Wh by chaining it to extra EcoFlow batteries and generators. That’s a ton of power and it has the substantial output capacity necessary to power an entire house worth of electronics when you need it to.
The Delta Pro also offers a companion app for iOS and Android that allows you to monitor energy usage, customize its operation, and monitor and manage a number of other elements.
While it’s not overly large for what it does, the Delta Pro is a heavy piece of equipment. It has wheels, so it is technically portable, but this is meant to be put down in a home or other semi-permanent site. Given its size and power, it’s also a much more expensive device, especially if you’re springing for the add-ons. As the best solar power generator to provide backup power for your entire home, however, it’s worth every penny.
Best portable: Anker 545
Buy it used or refurbished: eBay
Why it makes the cut: If you’re looking for highly portable power, the Anker 545 delivers.
When portability is a priority, the Anker 545 offers the compact size and reduced weight you’re looking for and packs fairly substantial power to boot. Roughly the size of a shoebox and lighter than a case of beer, it’s easy to pack along with camping gear and move around without too much effort.
To get something so light, though, you have to compromise on power. The Anker 545 has a capacity of 778Wh and an output capacity of 770W, which is plenty of power for keeping your devices charged. Specifically, that should provide about 55 phone charges, 10 for a laptop, or 38 for a camera. Unfortunately, the outlets only output at up to 500W, so it cannot power more demanding devices like hair dryers or electric stoves.
That said, the Anker 545 has some bells and whistles, including an integrated flashlight and ambient light. All told it’s a solid option if you need a highly mobile generator.
Best budget: Jackery Explorer 300
Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon
Why it made the cut: With its reasonable capacity, compact size, and solid build quality at a low price, the Jackery Explorer 300 is a great budget pick.
Though it isn’t quite as impressive as our top picks for best overall and best high-capacity, Jackery’s smaller Explorer 300 solar generator is super compact and lightweight with a decent power capacity for its price. Less a mobile power station than an upscale power bank, the 7-pound Jackery Explorer 300 provides plenty of portable recharges for your devices when you’re camping, on a job site, driving, or just need some power and don’t have convenient access to an outlet. Its modest 293Wh capacity isn’t huge, but it’s enough to provide 31 phone charges, 15 for a camera, 6 for the average drone, 2.5 for a laptop, or a few hours of operation for a minifridge or TV. A built-in flashlight would have upped its camping game somewhat, but at 300 (and often considerably less if you catch it discounted), this highly portable little power station does a lot for a little.
We tested this portable power station for several months, and it came in handy numerous times, especially during the winter when power outages abound. At one point, we had it powering two phones, a MacBook, and a small light.
The built-in handle makes it very easy to lug around. It feels like carrying a lunch box. The screen is easy to read, and the whole package seems fairly durable. Our review unit hasn’t taken any dramatic tumbles yet, but it has gotten banged around in car trunks, duffle bags, and other less-than-luxurious accommodations with no issues. If you catch one of these on sale, get it and stick it in a cabinet. You’ll be extremely glad to have it around when the need arises.
What to consider before buying the best solar generators
Over the past few years, solar generators have exploded onto the market. There are now dozens of different brands that largely look more or less the same at a glance. The fact is there are only a few standouts amidst a sea of knockoffs. Here’s what to look for to ensure you’re getting a great one:
How much power can it store?
A portable solar generator comes in an extremely wide range of sizes, but a generator’s size doesn’t automatically make it capable of storing a lot of power. In fact, most are disappointingly limited and unable to store much more juice than a portable charger.
To properly check a generator’s storage, you must look at its capacity, measured in watt-hours (Wh). One watt-hour is the equivalent of 1 watt flowing over the course of an hour. The best solar generators offer capacities of several hundred and sometimes several thousand watt-hours. That doesn’t mean, however, that it will provide power for several hundred or several thousand hours. Any generator will ultimately last a different amount of time, depending on what’s plugged into it.
It’s easy to predict how long a generator will last when you use it to power one thing. For example, if you were to power a 100-watt bulb using a power station with a capacity of 500 watt-hours, it would stay lit for five continuous hours. Add a portable fridge that requires 50 watts per hour, your phone which uses 18, a mini-fan that uses three … you get the picture. The more capacity, the better.
Charging capability
No solar generator will hold a charge forever, so you want one capable of charging as quickly and easily as possible. This is where we put the “renewable” into “renewable energy.”
All of the power stations included in this roundup can be charged by connecting them to solar panels (hence the designation “solar generators”). Still, you also want to look for the ability to charge via other sources like wall outlets and your vehicle’s 12-volt plug. This ensures that you can charge up whether you’re off-grid in the sun, plugged in while preparing at home, or using your dash socket on the go.
You must also monitor a model’s charging input capacity, measured in watts (W). For example, a solar-powered generator with a max input of 100W can take in a continuous flow of up to 100 watts, which is about the minimum that you’ll reasonably want to look for. Most of the generators below have input capacities of at least a few hundred watts when charging via solar, so a few 50- to 200-watt solar panels will max them out.
Output capability
Solar generators need to keep the power coming in and going out. The best solar generators can simultaneously charge all your intended devices via whatever plugs are necessary.
Any portable power station worth your money will have a high output capacity so you can charge many devices, even if they require a lot of juice. A generator’s maximum output should be much higher than its max input. While a particular model might only be capable of taking in a few hundred watts at any given moment, it will usually put out exponentially more. At a minimum, you’ll want a generator that can put out 300 watts at a time, though you’ll want at least 500 for larger tasks.
The best solar generators should also offer a variety of output plugs, including AC outlets, USB-A, USB-C, and even 12-volt DC outlets like the one in your vehicle dash. This ensures you can charge several devices simultaneously regardless of their plug. The number of ports you’ll need will vary depending on how many devices you need to power, but it should have at least a couple of AC outlets and a few USB-A ports.
Portability
While portable battery sources have been around for a while now, over the past several decades, they’ve been pretty heavy, unwieldy things. One of the most exciting aspects of the latest generation of solar generators is that they’ve become much more physically compact.
Suppose you plan on taking a generator camping or working it into a van conversion where every square inch matters; well, size and weight become major considerations. All of the products we’ve recommended are about the size of one or two shoeboxes—three at the most. The lightest is about the weight of a 24-pack of soda, while the heaviest is 100 pounds. Most fall somewhere between 30-60 pounds.
If you’re using your generator as a more or less stationary source of backup power at home, portability isn’t a huge issue. Still, we generally recommend keeping weight and size in mind; You never know when you’ll need it for something other than a backup. (Plus, who wants to lug around something heavy and awkward if they don’t have to?)
Another consideration regarding portability involves the necessity for accessories, which can impact how easy it is to move and use your generator. Some generators, for example, require a lot of removable battery packs, which can be a hassle when you’re on the go or packing a vehicle. All of the inclusions on our list require some accessories—you can’t get solar power without connecting cables and solar panels—but they work well with minimal add-ons.
Durability
As with any product you expect to last, durability and all-around quality craftsmanship are essential. This is especially true if you plan on lugging your generator around on camping and road trips. Many subpar power stations are made from cheap components and flimsy plastic that doesn’t feel like it will hold up under the rigors of the road.
Durability isn’t something you can determine by reading a spec sheet off the internet. You’ve actually got to take the generator out, use it a bunch, and see how it holds up. I’ve verified the durability of these recommendations via a combination of my own actual field tests and reviews culled from countless real product owners.
FAQs
Q: What size solar generator should I get?
It’s easy to underestimate how much capacity you need. A 1,000 watt-hours might sound like a lot, but if you’re going to power a converted van with a portable fridge, lights, and occasional phone and laptop top-off, that 1,000 watt-hours will go faster than you expect. I used a setup like this and know from personal experience that you should always overestimate how much power you’ll need.
A generator with a capacity under 1,000Wh can keep electronics charged. A larger one with 1000-1500Wh should be the minimum for road trips where you’ll need it to last multiple days between full charges. For a house or worksite where you expect to use some serious energy—like a full-sized refrigerator or power tools—you’re going to want to start looking at the biggest possible power stations that can be daisy-chained to external batteries.
If you want to get precise, there is an equation:
Estimate how many hours you’ll need to power various devices. For example, if you want to power two light bulbs for 2 hours: you need 4 hours of operation.
Add up the total wattage necessary: the two bulbs are 60 watts each, so you need 120 watts.
Multiply these together to find the total watt-hours needed: 4 x 120 = 480. So, in this case you’d need at least a 500Wh solar generator.
That might sound like a lot for two lightbulbs, but remember that, in most situations, you won’t really be powering 60-watt light bulbs for hours on end. You’ll be charging phones and laptops for an hour here or there, cooling a fridge that kicks on and off every once in a while, using power tools in short bursts, and whatnot.
Q: How many years will a solar generator last?
Most modern generators are rated to last upwards of 25 years. The best-designed power stations are pretty sturdy, with few to no moving parts, so they should likely keep kicking for a long time, provided that you care for them properly. I’ve been pretty rough with a few of mine, and they show no signs of stopping.
Q: Can I run my house on solar power only?
Yes and no. While it’s absolutely possible to power your house with solar power, you’re unlikely to do so with a portable solar generator unless you use several at once while limiting your power usage. The largest of our recommendations—the EcoFlow Delta Pro—will come fairly close when bolstered with extra batteries. If the power goes out, you’ll be able to keep your fridge cold and use basic electronics for a couple of days without recharging. With quality solar panels, good sunlight, and Smart energy usage, your power should theoretically go uninterrupted.
Final thoughts on the best solar generators
We’re living in a “golden age” for portable solar generators. When I was a kid, and my family was playing around with solar gear while camping in the ‘90s, the technology couldn’t charge many devices, so it wasn’t all that practical.
By contrast, the solar generators we’ve recommended here are incredibly useful. I’ve relied on them to power my work and day-to-day needs while road-tripping nationwide. They’re also great when the power goes out. When a windstorm cut the power at my house for a couple of days, I was still working, watching my stories, and keeping the lights on.
We haven’t even scratched the surface in terms of the potential offered by portable, reliable, renewable, relatively affordable power. What we can do now is already incredible. The potential for what may come next, though, is truly mind-blowing.
Why trust us
Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.
Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.
Nick Hilden writes reviews and recommendations coverage of fitness, outdoor and tech gear for Popular Science. He’s spent over a decade writing about lifestyle and culture topics for a slew of publications, including Scientific American, the Los Angeles Times, Vice, and Men’s Health, among others.
Bluetti launches sodium-ion solar generator
Bluetti’s NA300 sodium-ion solar generator offers thermal stability, fast-charging capacity, low-temperature performance, and integration efficiency.
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Bluetti, a Las Vegas-based manufacturer of solar energy facilities, PV generators, solar panels, and other solar peripherals, has launched a sodium-ion solar generator, the NA300, and a compatible battery module, the B480.
Bluetti said its first-generation sodium-ion battery excels in thermal stability, fast-charging capacity, low-temperature performance, and integration efficiency, despite slightly lower energy density than its lithium-ion counterparts. The solar generator and battery’s chemical components also feature more abundant materials than traditional lithium-ion batteries, lowering and alleviating concerns about resource scarcity.
The sodium-ion power station comes with four 20-amp traditional wall plugs, as well as a 30-amp L14-30 output port, driven by the system’s built-in 3000W pure sine wave inverter.
Thermal stability has become a hallmark issue of lithium-ion batteries, ever since the Arizona Public Service battery failure and corresponding explosion that left eight firefighters and one police officer hospitalized in Surprise, Arizona, in April 2019.
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According to Bluetti, the system can charge to 80% state-of-charge in less than 30 minutes at room temperature. In a low-temperature environment of.20 C, it has an 85% capacity retention rate and 80% system integration efficiency.
BloombergNEF recently updated its technology outlook to include sodium-ion batteries. It said could play a “meaningful role” in the greater storage landscape by 2030.
Bluetti plans to officially debut the NA300 B480 Sodium-ion Battery Power station at CES 2022 on Jan. 5 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
This content is protected by copyright and may not be reused. If you want to cooperate with us and would like to reuse some of our content, please contact: editors@pv-magazine.com.
Tim Sylvia
Tim Sylvia was an editor at pv magazine USA. Tim covered project development, legal issues and renewable energy legislation, as well as contributed to the daily Morning Brief.
BLUETTI Makes a Splash With All-Weather Solar Generator
The BLUETTI AC60 solar generator is a portable power station designed to handle rain, snow, sand, and dust.
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(Photo/BLUETTI)
The big appeal of solar generators is the ability to source power anywhere you go. One downside is that some portable power stations aren’t designed to handle exposure to the elements.
But BLUETTI designed the AC60 to be water- and dust-resistant. The brand even launched a companion battery pack that can boost the generator’s output and it shares the same performance in the elements, according to the brand.
Traditionally, a solar panel (or an array of them) collects energy and stores it in a portable power station. While solar panels can withstand an afternoon shower, many generators can’t.
The AC60, however, can safely run while sitting on the beach or in fresh snow, according to BLUETTI.
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BLUETTI AC60 Features
The AC60 is a 403Wh (lithium iron phosphate) battery that supplies 600W of power, which can be expanded up to 2,015 Wh with add-on batteries. Its footprint measures 11.3 x 8.5 inches, and it weighs less than 19 pounds.
The generator has a water-resistance rating of IP65, which means it can withstand water jets from any angle.
The outputs include two 120V AC outlets, two USB-A ports, one USB-C port, a 12V DC outlet, and a wireless charging pad. The inputs include AC, solar, and a cigarette lighter port.
How much is 600 W of output? That’s enough to run a 60W mini fridge for five hours, charge a mobile phone 13 times, or run a lamp for more than 30 hours. Additionally, the generator can crank 1,200 W of lifting power, meaning it can run appliances like a coffeemaker or power drill for a short time.
BLUETTI made the AC60 with a fast-charge time of 45 minutes to go from 0% to 80%. From there, it tops off in 1.2 hours. Conversely, a solar panel (max 200 W) can recharge the generator in three hours or less, according to the brand.
The companion app lets you control the battery’s charging and monitor its status and output levels.
Build Out Power
The BLUETTI B80 battery pack works as a standalone power bank or an add-on to the AC60 for longer trips or power-hungry projects.
Designed as an expansion battery for the AC60, the B80 carries the same IP65 “weatherproof” rating. It also uses the same core battery to provide stable power.
A B80 battery has an 806W capacity. Linked to two B80 packs, the AC60 generator’s power storage increases from 403 to 2,015 Wh. That’s enough to power portable fridges, laptops, and mood lighting around your campsite or van setup, according to BLUETTI.
BLUETTI AC60 Specs
- Capacity: 403 Wh (18 Ah)
- Output: 600 W
- Recharge: AC cable 1.2-1.7 hours (600W turbocharging); solar 2.5-3 hours
- Operating temperature:.4 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit
- Life cycles: 3,000-plus cycles (to 80% original capacity)
- Dimensions (L x W x D): 11.3” × 8.5” × 9.7″
- Weight: 18.9 lbs.
- Price: 699 each for AC60 and B80 battery pack
All-Weather Power
BLUETTI built the AC60 solar generator to act as a power companion on your outdoor adventures. The brand says it can withstand rain, snow, sand, and dust.
That means you should be able to leave your AC60 solar generator outside without fear of an afternoon shower or duststorm ruining your power supply. For longer trips or bigger projects, a B80 battery pack (or two) should give your generator a boost.
If you’ve been looking for a small, portable power station that works in the same conditions you play, the AC60 may be the solution. Check out BLUETTI’s website to learn more about its function and performance.
Early-Bird Savings
As with many BLUETTI launches, there will be an early-bird sale from May 16 to 31. The AC60 portable generator and the B80 battery pack will be 599 each, usually 699.
While the AC60 is made to work with the weatherproof B80, it can also be bundled with the PV120 solar panel for 983, or the PV200 solar panel for 1,168. During the early-bird sale, those pairings will cost 883 and 1,048, respectively.
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Portable Superpower: Combine BLUETTI AC500 B300S Battery for Whole-Home Backup Energy
The BLUETTI AC500 Portable Power Station and B300S Battery Pack combine to offer a home backup that can handle 10,000W surges and power home essentials for days. In the field, it can power the lights, appliances, and personal electronics at your campsite or cabin. Read more…
Hook Up With BLUETTI for Valentine’s and Save 30%
This BLUETTI sale on portable power stations and solar generators can save you 30% on a love connection with lasting power. Read more…
BLUETTI unveils three new products at CES including the world’s first sodium-ion solar generator
Portable power expert BLUETTI is kicking off 2022 with more energy than ever, unveiling new products at this years Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Soon, consumers will be able to get deals on some of the best tech yet from BLUETTI, including the long anticipated APEX inverter, a small but mighty EB3A Power Station, and a world’s first in the NA300 sodium-ion solar generator.
NA300 sodium-ion generator: The next generation of energy storage
Kicking off another year at CES in Las Vegas, BLUETTI announced the NA300 as not only one of its new products, but a world’s first as a sodium-ion solar generator.
This first-generation sodium-ion batteries are competitive to the LiFePO4 battery cells currently present in other BLUETTI products in terms of long cycle life apart from lower energy density. However, sodium-ion wins in terms of cost, low-temperature performance, and charging speeds.
Together with its B480 compatible battery packs, the NA300 features all the same style and settings as its EP500 predecessor, but with an improvement on its 2,400W solar input to 3,000W.
While its 3,000Wh capacity is less than the 5,100Wh in the EP500, it does support up to two B480 battery modules (4,800Wh each) for a massive 12,600Wh total capacity. This allows the NA300 sustain a constant supply of electricity needs for an entire family for several days allowing for recharging by the solar panels.
Similar to the EP500, the NA300 comes equipped with four 20A plugs and one 30A L14-30 output powered by its 3,000W pure sine wave inverter. Additionally, the NA300 offers the 240V, 6000W connection via BLUETTI Fusion Box to another NA300, IoT App Remote Control for both iOS and Android.
BLUETTI is boasting its new NA300 as the fastest charging solar generator out there, as it can recharge from 0% to 80% in just 30 minutes using 6,000W swift AC PV dual charging. (3,000W Max. for both AC and PV).
The NA300 and B480 sodium-ion batteries are also unique in that they have a capacity retention rate over 85% and a system integration efficiency of over 80% in low-temperature environments as low as.4°F (-20°C). This makes these new BLUETTI products perfect for consumers requiring backup winter power, or those out exploring in low temperature regions.
Learn more about the new NA300 on BLUETTI’s website.
BLUETTI AC500: The APEX has arrived
After two years of development and much hype from fans of BLUETTI, the AC500 has finally made its debut as a new product at CES. Nicknamed “The APEX” the AC500 represents the pinnacle in power with its 5,000W pure sine wave inverter – the post powerful delivered by BLUETTI to date.
Similar to its AC300 predecessor, the AC500 is a 100% modular solar battery system, compatible with its own B301 battery modules, which offer 3072Wh per LFP pack. Also like the AC300, the AC500 is backwards compatible with BLUETTI’s B300 battery module.
This powerful inverter on the AC500 supports major specs on both input and output of the device. For example, while charging AC and PV (solar) simultaneously, the total input can achieve up to 8000W, meaning one single hour of charging can power an air conditioner for 5-8 hours, or a dryer appliance for 1-2 hours.
5,000 watts come from AC charging, providing steady and reliable backup power to AC500 owners in a multitude of emergencies. The 3,000W of 3000W PV (solar) charging provide a welcomed element of sustainability to the AC500 that is more friendly to the environment. Furthermore, one hour of PV charging can power an electric saw for 2-4 hours or a professional computer for 4-6 hours.
In addition to the 5,000W power output, two AC500’s can be paired to provide a massive 240V, 10,000W output power system (Split-phase bonding, home circuit integration by BLUETTI Smart Home Panel).
The BLUETTI AC500 can be found in the CES 2022 section of BLUETTI’s website.
EB3A Power Station: A small but mighty new BLUETTI product
The third and final new product announced by BLUETTI is by far the tiniest, but that doesn’t mean it lacks power.
Previous models of BLUETTI’s compact power station line followed a consistent naming pattern like the previous EB55. The EB3A however, breaks the mold as the “A” in its nomenclature represents its “advanced” technology.
For example, the EB3A’s 600W pure sine wave inverter and 288Wh of LiFePO4 battery pack provide big power in a small footprint. With the additional ability to support up to 200 watts of solar input, the EB3A will arrive as a sleeper contender to other competitors in the entry-level power station segment.
Continuing its trend of small and simple design, the new EB3A is the first BLUETTI product in the sub-3,000Wh range that no longer requires the bulky power brick on its cord to recharge. In fact, a single cable can recharge the EB3A at a rate of 600W, replenishing from 0-80% in just 20 minutes.
If you already have other portable power stations, the EB3A could serve you just as well as lightweight compact power on the go while your other stations recharge at your home base. Check it out for yourself.
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The best solar power stations — Rockpals and Bluetti
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The Rundown:
For outdoor enthusiasts and doomsday preppers alike, solar power banks are an inexpensive, reliable way to take advantage of the most accessible renewable energy source: the sun. I tested generators from Rockpals and Bluetti using portable solar panels that could come with you for a camping trip or an afternoon at the beach.
I wanted to understand what it’s like to use them practically — which is exactly why I ran my TV and Nintendo Switch off of the Bluetti AC200P for an evening. The comparisons below are designed to help you choose which size, model, and wattage are best for you.
Every model on this list is a great choice for a reliable, easy-to-use, sustainable battery you can keep in your car or house for an unexpected power outage or use to turn your camping into glamping.
Rockpals vs. Bluetti
Small portable power stations are great to have around for camping, working on the road, or charging up your devices when the power goes out.
You can even run a CPAP machine on these things, so if you worry about the end of the world like I do, keep a charged one in your closet for emergencies. (Like all batteries, make sure to recharge every six months or so during storage to keep it topped up.)
Both of the models below have pros and cons, but they’re equally great choices for small solar power stations — it’s all about how you’ll use it.
Rockpals 500W
Rockpals 500W portable power station | Zoë Hannah | Decisionary Media
Cons
Price: 469.99 | Watt-hours: 505Wh | Best for: Camping, charging devices
Even though the Rockpals power station is only 500 watts, its capacity shouldn’t be underestimated. It’s powering my laptop and monitor right now and isn’t even close to capacity, with room for a total of nine devices at once. This one also plays nice with its companion panel, the Rockpals SP002. and was the easiest to charge with solar out of all the power banks I tested.
This is my favorite of the small solar generators I tested because it’s light, small, and has a super easy-to-read, simple interface. Whereas the much larger 2,000-watt station from Bluetti has a colored screen that can be a pain to read in the sun, this Rockpals model has a simple gray-and-white LCD display with the exact percentage of battery, input wattage, and output wattage displayed.
There’s no accidentally running out of power with the Rockpals 500W, especially because it requires less time and/or sunlight to charge all the way up. It took me about four hours to charge it from 60 to 91% on a partly cloudy day in May. It has ample cooling vents, which seem to prevent the fan from turning on as often as the other power banks I reviewed.
This fan in particular can be noisy if you’re powering a workstation or trying to enjoy the sounds of nature. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that my sister, who worked as a remote public school teacher while living in the Bahamas during the pandemic, used this power station to power her digital classroom for nearly an entire school year. That includes her entire setup (with the added benefit of a very bright Bahamian sun).
Bluetti EB55 700W
Bluetti EB55 700W portable power station | Zoë Hannah | Decisionary Media