Welcome to our ultimate guide on choosing the perfect solar portable power stations! Whether you’re gearing up for off-grid adventures or aiming to reduce your carbon footprint at home, we’ve got you covered. We’ve handpicked our top choices in five different categories to help you find the ideal fit for your needs.
Throughout this article, we have thoroughly (and totally objectively) assessed 41 different portable power stations across multiple brands, analysing various factors such as power output, pricing, portability, and durability. We will present you with our top three choices across the following categories:
- High Power (Top options for maximum power output, ideal for running multiple devices or high-wattage appliances)
- Mid-range (Balanced options offering decent power and features at a moderate price point)
- Budget (Affordable options that won’t break the bank, while still providing essential functionality)
- Durability (Robust choices designed to withstand tough conditions, including waterproof and shock-resistant models)
- Portability (Compact and lightweight options perfect for on-the-go use during camping trips or outdoor adventures)
The brands we selected are available worldwide, covering the US and UK markets and more, with the sole exception of Lion Energy – as unfortunately, at the time of writing, Lion Energy products are currently only available in the US.
It’s worth noting that the terms “solar generator” and “portable power station” are sometimes used interchangeably by manufacturers, especially when the units feature solar charging capabilities and generators become increasingly portable. For the purpose of this article, we’re focusing on portable power stations that can all be charged using solar energy, but do not come with solar panels by default.
(With that said, some of these products do give buyers the option to add on compatible solar panels for a discounted price.)
Whilst the product prices were correct at the time of writing, please note that prices can fluctuate. For each product, we have included links to the direct product page, which will contain the latest product pricing (including any sales for your region).
1) High Power Portable Power Stations
High-power portable power stations are crucial for those needing to power multiple devices at once. Whether camping, working remotely, or preparing for emergencies, these units ensure uninterrupted operation. Here are our top picks, consisting of the brands BLUETTI, Jackery, and ACOPower:
BLUETTI AC200L
Price (UK): £1,399 (£1,799 full price)
Price (US): $1,699 ($1,999 full price)
Power (W): 2400
Capacity (Wh): 2048
Cell chemistry: LiFePO₄
Weight: 28.3 kg / 62.4 lbs
Dimensions: 420×280×366.5 mm / 16.5×11×14.4 in
Warranty: 5 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (22)
Charging options: AC, Solar, Car. Life Cycles: 3,000+ Cycles to 80% Capacity. AC Charging: 1.5 Hours. Solar Charging: 2.5 Hours. Car Charging: 10-20 Hours. Scalability: Expandable capacity.
Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus
Price (UK): £1,999
Price (US): $2,199
Power (W): 3000
Capacity (Wh): 2042.8
Cell chemistry: LiFePO₄
Weight: 27.9 kg / 61.5 lbs
Dimensions: 359×473×373 mm / 14.1×18.6×14.7 in
Warranty: 5 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (2)
Charging options: AC, DC, Solar, Car. Cycle Life: 4000 cycles to 70% Capacity. Charging Time: AC – 2 Hours, Car (12V) – 25 Hours, Solar Panel varies. Scalability: Expandable capacity.
ACOPower P5000
Price (UK): £2,407 (£3,209 full price)
Price (US): $2,999 ($3,999 full price)
Power (W): 2000
Capacity (Wh): 5120
Cell chemistry: LiFePO₄
Weight: not specified
Dimensions: not specified
Warranty: not specified
Reviews: none yet
Charging options: AC, Solar. Inverter: 2200W AC pure sine wave for high-power devices. Lightning-fast AC 1800W input. UPS: 1400W for emergencies. Solar Input: Up to 1000W.
In the high-power category, we’ve selected three standout options to keep you charged during your most demanding adventures.
BLUETTI AC200L Portable Power Station: With a 2,400W output and 2,048Wh capacity, the BLUETTI AC200L is a powerhouse designed to handle high-power devices with ease. Its LiFePO₄ battery chemistry ensures durability and longevity, with a cycle life of over 3,000 cycles to 80% original capacity. Equipped with multiple charging options including AC, solar, and car inputs, you can quickly recharge this unit wherever you are. Plus, its scalability allows for expansion with additional batteries, providing even more power when needed.
Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Station: With a 3,000W output and 2,042.8Wh capacity, the Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus is a reliable companion for extended outdoor excursions. Featuring a LiFePO₄ battery with a cycle life of 4,000 cycles to 70%+ capacity, this power station ensures long-term performance. Its expandable capacity (2-12 kWh) and quick charging times make it a versatile option for various power needs.
ACOPower P5000 Portable Power Station: With a 2,200W output and 5,120Wh capacity, the P5000 Portable Power Station provides long-lasting power for your essential devices. Its LiFePO₄ battery offers durability and up to 10 years of lifespan, making it a reliable choice for off-grid living. With lightning-fast AC input and solar charging options, you can quickly recharge this unit for uninterrupted power on your adventures.
2. Mid-Range Portable Power Stations
Mid-range portable power stations strike a balance between power output, affordability, and versatility. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and homeowners alike, these units offer sufficient power without breaking the bank. Here are our top picks, from BLUETTI, Jackery, and EcoFlow:
BLUETTI AC70
Price (UK): £649 (£699 full price)
Price (US): $499 ($699 full price)
Power (W): 1000
Capacity (Wh): 768
Cell chemistry: LiFePO₄
Weight: 10.2 kg / 22.5 lbs
Dimensions: 314×209.5×256 mm / 12.4×8.2×10.1 in
Warranty: 5 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (12)
Charging options: AC, Solar, Car. Cycle Life: 3000 cycles to 80% capacity. Charging Time: AC – 1.3-1.6 Hours, Car (12V) – 25 Hours, Solar Panel varies.
Jackery Explorer 500
Price (UK): £349 (£556.99 full price)
Price (US): $499
Power (W): 500
Capacity (Wh): 518
Cell chemistry: Lithium ion
Weight: 6 kg / 13.3 lbs
Dimensions: 192×300×242 mm / 7.6×11.8×9.5 in
Warranty: 2 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (121)
Charging options: DC, Solar, Car. Cycle Life: 500 cycles to 80% capacity. Charging Time: AC – 7.5 Hours, Car (12V) – 7.5 Hours, Solar Panel – 9.5 Hours.
EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro
Price (UK): £649
Price (US): $469 ($569 full price)
Power (W): 800
Capacity (Wh): 768
Cell chemistry: LiFePO₄
Weight: 7.8 kg / 17.2 lbs
Dimensions: 270x260x226 mm / 10.6×10.2×8.9 in
Warranty: not specified
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (204)
Charging options: AC, Solar, Car. AC Charging: 0-80% in 56 minutes, 0-100% in 70 minutes (940W Max). Car Charging: 9 hours. USB-C Charging: 9 hours. Solar Charging (1x 220W portable solar panel): 3.5 hours.
These are our picks for mid-range portable power stations:
- BLUETTI AC70 Portable Power Station – provides 1000W of output power and a capacity of 768Wh, offering ample power for charging multiple devices simultaneously. With its LiFePO₄ battery chemistry, it boasts a long lifespan and superior durability. Equipped with various charging options including AC, solar, and car input, the AC70 ensures flexibility and convenience in charging.
- Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station – offers a compact and lightweight design, weighing just 6kg (13.3 lbs), making it highly portable for on-the-go power needs. With a capacity of 518Wh and an output of 500W, it provides sufficient power to keep your essential devices running during outdoor adventures. Its lithium-ion battery chemistry ensures reliable performance, while multiple charging options including DC, solar, and car input offer versatility in charging.
- EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro Portable Power Station – features a robust design with an output of 800W and a capacity of 768Wh, making it suitable for powering a wide range of devices. With AC, solar, and car input options, it offers flexibility in charging, ensuring you stay powered up wherever you go. Additionally, its LiFePO₄ battery chemistry provides enhanced durability and longevity, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts and homeowners alike.
3. Budget Portable Power Stations
Budget portable power stations provide cost-effective solutions without compromising on functionality. Whether you’re a camping enthusiast on a tight budget or a homeowner seeking an affordable backup power source, these units offer reliable performance without breaking the bank. Here are our top picks, once again from BLUETTI, Jackery, and EcoFlow:
BLUETTI AC2A
Price (UK): £199 (£269 full price)
Price (US): $179 ($249 full price)
Power (W): 300
Capacity (Wh): 204
Cell chemistry: LiFePO₄
Weight: 3.6 kg / 7.9 lbs
Dimensions: 250×157×175 mm / 9.8×6.1×6.8 in
Warranty: 5 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (1)
Charging options: AC, Solar, Car. AC Charging Time 1.2 Hours, Solar Charging Time 1.5 Hours; Life Cycles: 3,000+ Cycles to 80% Original Capacity.
Jackery Explorer 100 Plus
Price (UK): £139.99
Price (US): $149
Power (W): 128
Capacity (Wh): 99
Cell chemistry: LiFePO₄
Weight: 0.965 kg / 2.13 lbs
Dimensions: 126×87×87 mm / 4.96×3.41×3.43 in
Warranty: 2 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (20)
Charging options: USB-C (Car), USB-C (Solar). DC Charged in 1.8 Hours and Solar Charged in 2 Hours; Cycle Life: 2000 cycles to 80%+ capacity; Whisper Quiet.
EcoFlow RIVER 2
Price (UK): £199 (£209 full price)
Price (US): $219 ($239 full price)
Power (W): 300
Capacity (Wh): 256
Cell chemistry: LiFePO₄
Weight: 3.5 kg / 7.7 lbs
Dimensions: 245x214x142 mm / 9.6×8.4×5.6 in
Warranty: 5 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (81)
Charging options: AC, Solar, Car. Recharge Time: AC: 0-80% in 48 min, 0-100% in 60 min (360W Max); Car: 3 hrs; USB-C: 6 hrs; Solar (1x 110W panel): 2.5 hrs. 80%+ capacity after 3000 cycles.
The budget options selected offer a balance of affordability and essential features, making them ideal for users seeking cost-effective solutions without compromising functionality:
BLUETTI AC2A Portable Power Station: Priced starting from £199, the AC2A provides a reliable power source with its 300W output and 204Wh capacity. Its lightweight design, weighing 3.6 kg (7.9 lbs), and compact dimensions make it highly portable. With AC, solar, and car charging options, it offers versatility for various applications. Additionally, its robust LiFePO₄ battery chemistry ensures durability and longevity, with a a life cycle of 3,000 and 5-year warranty to provide peace of mind.
Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station: Available at £139.99, the Jackery Explorer 100 Plus is a compact and lightweight option, weighing only 0.965 kg (2.13 lbs). Despite its small size, it delivers a respectable 128W output with a 99Wh capacity. Although it has limited charging options compared to others, its USB-C input and solar input make it suitable for on-the-go charging. It also has a respectable cycle life of 2000 cycles to 80%+ capacity, ensuring reliable performance over time.
EcoFlow RIVER 2 Portable Power Station: Priced at £209, the EcoFlow RIVER 2 offers a balance of affordability and performance, featuring a 300W output and 256Wh capacity. With multiple charging options, including AC, solar, and car input, it provides versatility for various charging scenarios. The unit’s durable LiFePO₄ battery chemistry ensures longevity, with an impressive cycle life of 3000+ cycles to 80% capacity. Additionally, it offers app control via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for convenient monitoring and management.
4. Durable Portable Power Stations
Durability is crucial when it comes to portable power stations, especially for those who venture into rugged terrains or embark on bumpy road trips. These devices need to be strong and shock-proof to withstand the challenges of outdoor adventures. Some models even offer waterproof features, providing extra protection against moisture exposure. Here are our top picks, which come from the brands BLUETTI, Jackery, and Lion Energy:
BLUETTI AC60
Price (UK): £499 (£699 full price)
Price (US): $649 ($699 full price)
Power (W): 600
Capacity (Wh): 403
Cell chemistry: LiFePO₄
Weight: 9.1 kg / 20 lbs
Dimensions: 290×205×234 mm / 11.42×8.07×9.21 in
Warranty: 6 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5)
IP65-rated Dustproof & Water-resistant. Charging options: AC, Solar, Car. Life Cycles: 3,000+ Cycles to 80% Original Capacity; AC Charging 1-1.5 Hours, Solar Charging 2.5-3 Hours, Car Charging Time (12V/24V) 4.5-5 Hours/2.5-3 Hours
Jackery Explorer 1500 Pro
Price (UK): £1,499
Price (US): $1,699
Power (W): 1800
Capacity (Wh): 1512
Cell chemistry: Lithium ion
Weight: 17 kg / 37.48 lbs
Dimensions: 269×384×307.5 mm / 10.59×15.12×12.11 in
Warranty: 3 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4)
Highest UL requirements of outer shell, incredibly durable and long-lasting. Fireproof and passed safety drop standards. Charging options: AC, DC, Solar, Car. Cycles: 2000 cycles to 70%+ capacity; Charging Time: AC 2 Hours, Car (12V) 16.5 Hours, Solar varies.
Lion Summit
Price (UK): n/a
Price (US): $499
Power (W): 530
Capacity (Wh): 665
Cell chemistry: LiFePO₄
Weight: 8.2 kg / 18 lbs
Dimensions: 337x184x216 mm / 13.25×7.25×8.5 in
Warranty: 5 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (6)
Tough casing, built to withstand harsh elements. Life Cycles: 3,500+. Optional add-ons: 100W solar panel, 50W solar panel, LED lightbulb string
Fast Charge Time: 4-5 hrs wall, 4-6 hrs solar. Charge Retention: Over 1 year
Our picks for durability come down to these power stations which have additional features like certified water-, dust-, and fire-resistance, meaning you can make the right decision for your environments:
- BLUETTI AC60 Portable Power Station – 600W output and 403Wh capacity encased in an IP65-rated waterproof exterior that offers dust and water resistance, ensuring it can operate in challenging environments. Supported by a solid 6-year warranty, this unit is a steadfast companion for any outdoor, workshop, or emergency power need.
- Jackery Explorer 1500 Pro Portable Power Station – This pick from Jackery may be pricier than our BLUETTI counterpart, but it also packs a powerful punch at 1800W output and 1512Wh capacity. Its outer shell satisfies the highest UL durability standards, including the use of top-grade 94V-0 fireproof material and passing stringent safety drop tests. The integrated Battery Management System (BMS) and overvoltage protection are testament to its enduring build quality. The drawbacks to this Jackery 1500 Pro are its heavier weight (17kg / 37.5 lbs) and shorter warranty (3 years) than its BLUETTI and Lion Energy competitors.
- Lion Summit Portable Generator: The Lion Summit is built specifically for its endurance – its “rugged” casing has been designed to endure the rigours of harsh elements. The generator’s lighter weight of 8.2 kg (18 lbs) does not compromise its toughness. It also comes with a 5-year warranty.
5. 'Most Portable' Portable Power Stations
When you’re heading outdoors or setting up camp, a lightweight and compact portable power station is essential. The following power stations, from BLUETTI, Jackery, and EcoFlow, prioritise portability – offering a convenient power solution that’s ideal for travel without the bulk of heavier (albeit more powerful) units.
BLUETTI EB3A
Price (UK): £219 (£299 full price)
Price (US): $209 ($299 full price)
Power (W): 600
Capacity (Wh): 268
Cell chemistry: LiFePO₄
Weight: 4.6 kg / 10.14 lbs
Dimensions: 255×180×183 mm / 10.04×7.09×7.20 in
Warranty: 2 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (100)
Charging options: AC, Solar, Car. Cycles: 2,500+ Cycles to 80% Original Capacity. AC Charging 1.3-1.8 Hours (Turbo Mode) or 1.5-2.0 Hours (Standard Mode), Solar Charging 1.8-2.0 Hours, Car Charging (12V/24V) 3.2-3.7 or 1.9-2.4 Hours, AC + Solar Charging 1.2-1.7 Hours
Jackery Explorer 240
Price (UK): £169 (£259.99 full price)
Price (US): $239
Power (W): 200
Capacity (Wh): 240
Cell chemistry: Lithium ion
Weight: 3 kg / 6.6 lbs
Dimensions: 133.2×230×200 mm / 5.24×9.05×7.87 in
Warranty: 2 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (128)
Charging options: DC, Solar, Car. Cycle Life: 500 cycles to 80%+ capacity; Charging Time: AC Adapter approx. 5.5 Hours, Car Adapter (12V) approx. 6.5 Hours, Solar Panel approx. 5.5 Hours.
EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max
Price (UK): £399 (£449 full price)
Price (US): $469
Power (W): 500
Capacity (Wh): 512
Cell chemistry: LiFePO₄
Weight: 6 kg / 13.2 lbs
Dimensions: 270x260x196 mm / 10.6×10.2×7.7 in
Warranty: 5 years
Reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5)
Charging options: AC, Solar, Car. 1.5kWh solar charging capacity per day. Recharge 0-100% in only 60 min. Safest LFP battery with 10 years of use. First power station with TÜV Rheinland safety certification.
When selecting the best portable power stations for ease of transport and use on the go, we’ve homed in on these top picks that stand out for their light weight and compact size:
- BLUETTI EB3A Portable Power Station – Offers a significant 600W of power and 268Wh capacity, coming in at a manageable weight of 4.6 kg (10.14 lbs). Whilst it’s not as light as the BLUETTI model we chose for our ‘budget’ pick, it is only 1kg heavier and has similar dimensions, whilst offering a more substantial power output.
- Jackery Explorer 240 Portable Power Station – Weighing just 3 kg (6.6 lbs), it’s the lightest of our selection, making it exceptionally easy to take along on any trip. Despite its small size, it still offers a practical 200W output and 240Wh capacity, sufficient for keeping your devices charged without weighing you down.
- EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max – stands out for not just its portability at 6 kg (13.2 lbs), but also for its rapid recharge capability and high-capacity output. It boasts a 500W output and a sizeable 512Wh capacity. It recharges to 100% in just 60 minutes and has the durability of a LiFePO₄ battery, and has TÜV Rheinland safety certification. Despite being slightly heavier, it’s still a top contender for those needing a bit more power without sacrificing portability.
Conclusion
And that’s it for our shortlists in these 5 important categories! We’ve highlighted choices that cater to a wide range of needs, from high-powered models capable of running numerous devices to budget-friendly units that provide essential power without a hefty price tag. Durability and portability have also been key factors in our selection, ensuring that the power stations can withstand the elements and are easy to transport during your outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re a camper, remote worker, or just someone looking to achieve self-sufficiency with solar power, our recommendations are tailored to give you reliable and sustainable power options, wherever you may be.
Remember to consider your specific power needs, the environments you’ll be in, and balance those against the portability you require for a well-informed decision on your next portable power station purchase.
Solar Trek is all about breaking down information about solar-powered brands and products into a helpful, easily digestible format. All of our content is totally objective, aimed at helping you to make the best purchasing decisions for your solar needs. If you click our links and make a purchase, we may earn some commission, but this does not interfere with our goals of providing 100% helpful, informative, and objective information.
