JACKERY Solar Generator 300 Plus LiFePO4 Power Station Review

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By James

Jackery has been a leading manufacturer of portable power stations and solar panels for over a decade. They recently released the new Solar Generator 300 Plus, which bundles their Explorer 300 power station with a 40W Jackery SolarSaga solar panel.

The Explorer 300 Plus features a 288Wh lithium iron phosphate battery paired with a 300W pure sine wave inverter. It’s an ultra-compact, portable power station designed for off-grid adventures, RV travel, and emergency power needs.

What sets the 300 Plus bundle apart is the inclusion of Jackery’s portable SolarSaga 40W solar panel in the box. This allows the Explorer 300 to be charged by the sun, making it a versatile solar generator for any occasion.

In this hands-on review, we’ll take a close look at the performance and capabilities of the new Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus bundle. We’ll test the capacity of the lithium battery, max power of the inverter, speed of solar charging, and more. Read on for the full breakdown and final verdict on this exciting new offering from Jackery.

Product Specifications

The Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus packs a lot of power into a compact size. Here are the key specs:

  • Size and Weight: The unit measures 9 x 6 x 7 inches and weighs 8.25 pounds, making it highly portable.

  • Battery: It contains a 288Wh lithium iron phosphate battery rated for 3,000 cycles to 80% capacity. This battery chemistry is known for safety, longevity, and steady power output.

  • Display: It has Jackery’s standard LCD display that shows input/output wattage, state of charge percentage and icon, and warning indicators. The monochrome display is crisp and easy to read.

  • Inverter: It features a 300W pure sine wave inverter with a single AC outlet. The pure sine wave output is clean enough to safely power sensitive electronics.

  • Ports: For charging, it has a standard AC input port, a 40W USB-C PD input, and a 12V cigarette lighter socket. For output, it provides 2 x 100W USB-C PD ports, 1 x USB-A port, and the 12V cigarette lighter socket. The USB-C ports allow extremely fast charging.

Overall, the Jackery 300 Plus packs an impressive amount of ports and power into a compact chassis. The lithium iron phosphate battery, pure sine wave inverter, and abundance of ports make it versatile for powering or charging all kinds of devices on the go.

Charging Options

The Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus offers several convenient ways to recharge the 288Wh lithium iron phosphate battery.

AC Charging

The included 230W AC adapter plugs into a wall outlet and charges the battery from 0-100% in around 2 hours. The AC charging port uses a large “honking” cord, nearly the size of the generator itself. While a bit unwieldy, the high-powered AC adapter delivers fast charging speeds.

Solar Charging

The Solar Generator 300 Plus also supports solar charging through the included 40W foldable solar panel. The panel conveniently connects via a magnetic plug to deliver solar energy at up to 100W directly into the unit’s USB-C port. With ideal sunlight, the 40W panel can fully recharge the unit in approximately 10 hours. For faster solar charging, an optional 100W solar panel is available, which can recharge the unit in just 2-3 hours.

Car Charging

For charging on the go, an optional 12V car charger allows the Solar Generator 300 Plus to be recharged from a car’s 12V power outlet. The car charger fully recharges the unit in around 5.5 hours, providing a solid backup charging option while traveling.

Output Capabilities

The 300 Plus has a 300W pure sine wave inverter with a single AC outlet. This small inverter performed well in capacity testing, able to output 380W before the waveform collapsed. The inverter provides clean power for most basic uses, though some electrical noise was detected that could impact more sensitive devices.

For 12V output, there is a single cigarette lighter socket capable of supplying 10A (120W). Voltage regulation was good, staying above 11.7V even at max load. This makes the 300 Plus well suited for powering smaller 12V devices.

The USB outputs are a highlight, with two 100W USB-C PowerDelivery ports and one standard USB-A port. The USB-C ports can each supply up to 100W for charging high-powered laptops or power banks. Both USB-C ports can even be used at the same time to deliver almost 200W total USB power. The USB-A port provides up to 2.4A shared with the USB-C ports. Having dual USB-C PD really sets the 300 Plus apart in capabilities.

Additional Features

The 300 Plus comes with several handy additional features beyond just power output.

App Connectivity

The 300 Plus can connect to Jackery’s mobile app via WiFi or Bluetooth. This allows you to monitor the power draw, charging rates, and battery level. You can also use the app to control the LCD screen timeout, set auto shutoff times, rename your device, and update the firmware. The app provides a convenient way to monitor and control the 300 Plus without having to be right next to the unit.

UPS Mode

The 300 Plus has a basic uninterruptible power supply (UPS) mode that can switch to battery power within 20 milliseconds. This allows you to safely use the 300 Plus to power sensitive electronics and prevent shutdowns or damage in the event of a power outage. The fast switching UPS mode worked well in testing, keeping a laptop powered on smoothly during a simulated outage. This is an impressive feature to have on such a compact power station. The 300 Plus provides reliable emergency power thanks to the quick UPS mode.

Testing Overview

After receiving the Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus, I performed thorough hands-on testing in my lab to evaluate its capacity, efficiency, and functionality.

  • Battery capacity tests were conducted by fully charging the unit and then discharging through various loads until it shut off. I measured both AC and DC capacity. This reveals if it performs to the advertised capacity.

  • The pure sine wave output was verified using an oscilloscope. The voltage regulation and frequency were analyzed to ensure clean, stable power.

  • Maximum continuous power tests pushed the inverter at increased loads for sustained periods to validate it doesn’t overheat or shut down prematurely.

  • Charging speed was measured from wall outlet, solar panel, and car outlet. This reveals the actual speed it charges compared to claims.

  • Noise levels were evaluated at various distances to quantify acoustic impact for different usage scenarios.

  • Safety features like overvoltage, undervoltage, overload, and overheating protection were tested by simulating fault conditions.

  • Durability assessments involved environmental exposure, shock, vibration, and drop testing.

My hands-on testing provides unbiased data on how well the Jackery 300 Plus meets its advertised specifications, ensures safe operation for consumers, and withstands real-world usage. Key metrics were evaluated to determine overall performance and value.

Battery Capacity

The 300 Plus packs a 288Wh lithium iron phosphate battery rated for 3,000 cycles. To test the battery capacity, the 300 Plus was run through a rigorous DC and AC battery test in a secret lab.

In the DC battery capacity test, it scored 263Wh out of 288Wh, giving it an excellent 91% efficiency. The AC battery capacity test resulted in 240Wh out of 288Wh, which is a decent 83% efficiency. The AC capacity is lower since it accounts for losses from the 300W inverter. Still, getting over 90% of the rated capacity in a DC test is impressive for such a compact unit.

Overall, the 300 Plus delivers nearly full battery capacity for its size and won’t disappoint in real-world usage. The lithium iron phosphate battery also provides long cycle life, outlasting cheaper battery chemistries. While rated for 288Wh, getting 263Wh in a DC test shows Jackery is slightly underpromising and overdelivering.

Inverter Output

The Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus has a 300W pure sine wave inverter, which provides clean AC power suitable for sensitive electronics like laptops and medical devices that require a smooth waveform.

In my inverter capacity testing, I was able to get the inverter to output around 380W before the sine wave collapsed and shut off. This shows the inverter has a bit of overhead above its rated 300W capacity, which is nice to see. Most people won’t come close to maxing out a 300W inverter, but having that extra cushion is reassuring.

As for noise levels, the Jackery 300 Plus inverter is very quiet. From one meter away, I measured only around 47-48 dB when running the inverter at full 300W load. That’s softer than a normal conversation and quieter than your average home appliance. The excellent noise management makes this inverter viable for use in close proximity without disturbance. You could have a business meeting or study session powered by the Jackery, and it would operate very discreetly in the background.

Charging Speed

The 300 Plus charges quickly from both AC and solar thanks to its high power input capabilities. When charging from AC, it has a max input of 230W which allows it to charge from 0-100% in around 2 hours. This makes it one of the fastest charging portable power stations in its size class.

For solar charging, the 300 Plus has a max solar input of 100W via the USB-C port. This allows it to charge from a compatible 100W solar panel in just 2-3 hours. While the included 40W solar panel will take much longer at around 10 hours for a full charge, you can optionally upgrade to a 100W panel for faster solar charging. Even with the 40W panel, you can still top up smaller devices like phones, tablets and laptops in just a few hours.

The 300 Plus hits the sweet spot for portability and fast charging – you get ultra compact size with the ability to rapid charge from AC or a 100W solar panel. This makes it easy to keep powered up no matter where you are.

Noise Levels

When it comes to noise, the Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus performs extremely well.

Fan Noise

The cooling fan inside the 300 Plus is whisper quiet. When charging via AC power at full 230W speed, the fan noise measures just 43 dB from one meter away. That’s about the same as a very quiet library. Even when taxing the inverter output at full capacity, the fan noise remains under 50 dB, which is quieter than your average conversation. You can charge phones, laptops and other devices without any audible fan noise to disturb you.

Interference

I tested for electromagnetic interference in two ways. First, I connected the 300 Plus to a power amp to see if it could provide clean sine wave power for audio equipment. There was some minor background noise, so I don’t recommend it for high fidelity audio amplification. Second, I tuned an AM radio near the unit when the inverter was on. There was notable interference that caused static on the radio, so keep that in mind if you need an inverter for radio communications. The little 300W inverter is not designed for noise-sensitive applications, but performs admirably given its diminutive size.

Overall, the fan noise and interference levels are very low for a compact generator like this. The 300 Plus runs quietly, making it ideal for use in close proximity for powering phones, laptops, lights, fans and other electronics on camping trips, in RVs, at tailgate parties or anywhere you need portable power.

Safety Features

The Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus has several important safety features to prevent damage from overloads or overheating.

Overload Protection

The inverter on the Jackery 300 Plus is rated for 300 watts continuous power. If you attempt to pull more than 300 watts from the AC outlet, the inverter will shut off to prevent damage. This protects both the inverter and any devices you have connected. During my stress testing, the inverter successfully cut off output when overloaded past its rated capacity.

Overheat Protection

Lithium batteries can be damaged by excessive heat. The Jackery 300 Plus monitors internal temperature and will automatically shut down if it detects overheating while charging or discharging. This prevents the battery cells from being damaged. In my experience the automatic low temperature charging cutoff also worked reliably during testing in cold conditions.

So in summary, the Jackery includes the key protection circuits you would expect to see in a quality lithium battery power station. It protects itself from both power overload and overtemperature conditions. This gives added peace of mind that your investment will remain safe even if you accidentally try to push the 300 Plus beyond its intended limits.

Durability

The Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus is designed to be durable and withstand the elements. It has an IP67 waterproof rating, meaning it is dust tight and can survive immersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes without damage.

This high ingress protection rating makes the 300 Plus ideal for using outdoors, camping, or emergency preparedness situations where it may encounter rain, dust, or splashing water. You don’t have to worry about getting the unit wet.

Jackery subjected the 300 Plus to stringent water immersion testing, verifying it can be fully submerged without leaking or malfunctioning. The solar charging port has a higher IP68 rating, engineered to be submerged deeper and longer than the main unit.

The tough polyethylene shell protects the internal components from bumps, drops, and scratches. Jackery built it to survive life on the go. The compact size and shape with rounded edges was well thought out to make it rugged and portable.

With an impressive IP rating and durable exterior, the 300 Plus is ready for adventure. You can take it anywhere with confidence it will hold up to the elements and keep performing reliably. This rugged dependability makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and preppers alike.

Warranty

Jackery provides an exceptional 5-year warranty for both the Solar Generator 300 Plus unit and the included 40W solar panel. This covers any defects in materials or workmanship for 5 years from the date of purchase.

So if you buy the 300 Plus with the bundled solar panel and either component stops functioning properly at any point within the first 5 years, Jackery will repair or replace them free of charge. That’s a very generous warranty length considering most competitors offer just 1-2 years of coverage.

It provides great peace of mind knowing your purchase is protected for half a decade. Even if you use the 300 Plus heavily during that time, as long as it’s not physically abused, Jackery will stand behind it. The 5-year warranty really adds value compared to other portable power stations in this price range.

Solar Panel Review

The included 40W solar panel with the Solar Generator 300 Plus package offers a few nice features that improve portability and convenience. At 21.3 x 11.4 x 0.2 inches unfolded, the panel is slim and similar in size to a tablet, making it easy to pack and transport. When folded up, the panel is secured shut with magnets for quick setup and breakdown.

Despite the small size, the monocrystalline solar cells provide up to 23% efficiency in direct sunlight. This isn’t the highest on the market, but respectable for a portable panel. With a 40W output, the solar panel can fully recharge the 288Wh Solar Generator 300 Plus battery from empty in around 10 hours given optimal sun exposure. This may limit use for some power-hungry devices, but works well for smaller electronics, keeping phones and laptops topped up during outdoor adventures.

While handy, the lack of a kickstand does limit tilt angle and potential efficiency. The panel must be laid flat or hung using corner eyelets. Adding some collapsible legs would improve usability, but the highly portable magnetic folding design remains useful for travel and emergency preparedness kits.

Overall, the bundled solar panel strikes a nice balance between portability, efficiency, and convenience to complement the compact 300 Plus generator. While faster 100W panels are available, the included 40W option nicely suits the small size and capacity of this model.

Final Verdict

Overall, the Solar Generator 300 Plus offers impressive capabilities in a compact, portable design. Here’s a quick rundown of the key pros and cons:

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight at only 8.25 lbs
  • 288Wh LFP battery with 3000 cycles to 80% capacity
  • Can charge from AC, solar, or 12V car outlet
  • 300W pure sine wave inverter
  • Dual 100W USB-C PD ports for fast charging
  • 12V cigarette lighter outlet
  • 5-year warranty on both power station and solar panel

Cons

  • Small 40W solar panel may require 2+ days to fully recharge
  • Noisy inverter unsuitable for sensitive electronics
  • Limited to 300W continuous power output

At only $299 for the bundle during holiday sales, the Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus provides excellent value. It’s a great compact power station for RV trips, camping, power outages, and other off-grid uses. While the small solar panel and noisy inverter limit applications, overall it’s a versatile and affordable lithium portable power station.