LIPOWER Portable Power Station
Most generators with over 1000 watt-hours cost quite a bit. The LIPOWER power station is the exception. With a massive 1100 watthours for well below the cost of comparable models, this is the best solar-powered generator for the price.
This generator offers 1000w output as well, so you can power most appliances, including mini-fridges, microwaves, and iPads. There are ten output ports, including several A.C. outlets and USB ports. This generator also allows for flow-through charging, so you can use the battery as its charges, which can be incredibly convenient. Of course, 1100 watt-hours may not be enough to power many appliances at once, and the LIPOWER doesn’t conveniently connect to additional battery sources. Pros Allows flow-through charging Lightweight (26.5 lbs.) Cons Smaller capacity than other models
AMPROAD Epic 1000
Though solar-powered generators are always quieter than gas options, they still typically have fans inside to keep them cool. The fans can be disruptive for some who rely on their generators to power devices like CPAP machines while they sleep. The AMPROAD Epic 1000 eliminates that problem by nixing the fan and using a heat-dissipating aluminum body instead. With a 1000Wh capacity and 1000w input, the Epic 1000 can handle most appliance needs. You’ll be able to plug in a mini-fridge, coffee maker, or chest freezer easily. This generator also includes an LED flashlight built-in; it’s ideal for emergencies.
That said, if you’re looking to power any sort of off-grid living, this generator might not be enough. You’ll probably want more watt-hours, closer to 1500 or even 2000. Pros silent running ideal for powering nighttime devices LED flashlight built-in Affordable Cons Good for emergencies, but not enough for off-grid living
Goal Zero Yeti 1500x
Goal Zero is a well-known brand in the solar generator world for good reasons. All of their power stations are U.S.-made, then tested in rugged environments worldwide, including in the Arctic. So, if you want a solar-powered generator that’s dependable in any emergency, the Yeti 1500x is it. With a 2000w A.C. inverter, there’s no limit to what you can power using this battery. If you can plug it into the wall of your home, you can run it with the Yeti. That includes fridges, medical devices, and, of course, your computer and phone.
It provides 1500 Wh, which should be enough for most situations, and recharging is fast. Four hours of solar recharging using 400w panels should do the trick. The Yeti 1500x works with several different Goal Zero solar panels, depending on how often you want the battery to recharge. With the right solar panel set-up, plenty of sunshine, and this battery, you could take most of your power needs off-grid. Or, you can opt for portable panels and use this solely as an emergency option.
All of that said, with Goal Zero products, you are paying a premium for the brand name. And their connection capabilities are lacking. With a generator this pricey, it’d be nice to have it readily linked to a second and third battery so that you could increase capacity. Also lacking are the outlets. There are only two A.C. outlets and three USBs, which is far less than other generators at this price point. Pros Powerful 2000w A.C. inverter Fast recharging capabilities Dependable brand Cons Minimal connection capabilities Few outlets
Jackery Explorer 1500
With 1534 Wh, the Jackery Explorer 1500 promises to run a refrigerator for up to 15 hours, a T.V. for up to 21 hours, and a microwave for up to 68 minutes. That’s more than enough to get through most outages unscathed, especially when you consider how efficient the Jackery Explorer 1500 is.
The Jackery Explorer 1500 is one of the most efficient solar-powered generators for home use, thanks to its upgraded MPPT controller. You’ll reach an 80% charge in just four hours of solar exposure. That’s not bad, given that it only allows for 400w input.
Jackery recommends using this generator with their SolarSaga 100w solar panels, up to four at a time. Though you’ll have to purchase them separately, they’re affordable and foldable, making them exceptionally convenient. If you happen to own other solar panels, though, you’ll have to purchase adaptors to work with Jackery products. Jackery uses proprietary connections, which can be a little frustrating for those who already have solar panels in place. The Explorer 1500 features seven power outlets in various forms, including three USB ports. It also has a digital screen that will provide real-time battery monitoring. All in all, this is a highly efficient and easy-to-use power generating machine. Pros Upgraded MPPT controller for efficiency Large capacity Seven power outlets Real-time battery monitoring Cons Must use with Jackery solar panels or purchase additional adaptors
ECOFLOW If you’re attempting off-grid living or need an extra-large capacity during an emergency for Delta any reason, the ECOFLOW Delta Max is an excellent option. This battery has a large capacity Max of 2016 Wh, and you can link it with up to two more batteries if desired. That puts your total watt-hours at a whopping 6048!
The ECOFLOW also boasts a rapid charge feature that will get you an 80% charge in about ninety minutes. Of course, the rapid charge feature works via an outlet or your car, not through solar panels, which charge much slower.
That said, even with pure solar charging, this generator links to 800w panels and can fully recharge in three to six hours, which isn’t bad at all. Plus, it comes with an app to control and monitor everything remotely. You can turn off ports, view output, and more without ever leaving your couch. The Delta Max isn’t exactly affordable, especially if you plan to connect two or three of them at once, and you’ll have to purchase the panels separately. It’s also fairly heavy, so if you hoped to use it while camping or in an R.V. as well as for home emergencies, it might not be the best bet. However, in the event of a multi-day power outage, it’s one of the best solar-powered generators on the market. Pros Huge capacity with ability to link multiple batteries Fast charging via solar or outlet power Remote control via free app Cons Pricey Not very portable
Bluetti Portable Power Station AC200P With 2000Wh, the AC200P by Bluetti is a solar-powered beast. This generator can easily power even larger appliances, like your refrigerator, window A/C, and space heaters, making it ideal for home emergency use.
It allows for 700w of solar power input and features an MPPT controller, so it also recharges fast. It takes about three and a half hours to recharge this generator. If needed, you can also recharge it using your car. It will take longer, close to eleven hours, but at least you have the option!
The AC200P also has six A.C. outlets for easy use, a cigarette lighter, and several USB outlets. Plus, it features a backlit touch screen that delivers all the device information you need, such as voltage, temperature, and charging level. You’ll have to purchase solar panels separately, and this unit is fairly heavy at just over 60 lbs. Still, for home use, it’s one of the best generator options. Pros Huge capacity Fast recharging Several outlets Cons Panels sold separately Heavy