Solar generators provide mobile electric power using stored energy from integrated batteries that can be recharged through solar panels. They offer a clean and quiet alternative to traditional gas-powered generators. Some key benefits of solar generators include:
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Eco-Friendly Power: Solar generators use renewable solar energy to recharge their batteries, eliminating emissions and fumes produced by gas generators. This makes them ideal for indoor use.
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Silent Operation: Without any engine or motor, solar generators run virtually silent. This allows them to be used in settings like camping or outdoor events without causing a disturbance.
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Portable Power: Solar generators are designed to be lightweight and compact. The best models have handles and/or wheels so they can easily be moved and transported wherever power is needed.
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Multiple Charging Options: In addition to solar panels, most solar generators can also be charged by plugging them into wall outlets, car chargers, or other power sources for maximum flexibility.
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Cost Savings: While the upfront cost is higher, solar generators pay for themselves over time by avoiding the need to purchase gasoline or diesel. The sun provides free charging.
With the right solar generator, you can have reliable and renewable electricity available anywhere when you need it – without noise, fumes, or the costs associated with fuel. They provide a sustainable solution for both emergency power and off-grid activities.
1. Goal Zero Yeti 1500x
The Goal Zero Yeti 1500x portable power station provides 1500 watt hours of capacity in a compact 43 lb unit. This high capacity ensures you can power appliances and electronics for extended periods.
A key feature of the Yeti 1500x is the integrated Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) charge controller. This increases charging efficiency by 30% when paired with a compatible Goal Zero solar panel.
With a powerful 2000W AC inverter, the Yeti 1500x can handle larger loads from home appliances, power tools, and medical devices. The pure sine wave inverter provides clean power suitable for sensitive electronics.
To harness the power of the sun, the Yeti 1500x works seamlessly with Goal Zero’s Boulder 200 Briefcase panels or other solar panels in their lineup. This gives you renewable charging while off grid or during power outages.
For peace of mind, the Yeti 1500x comes with a 2 year warranty. Goal Zero stands behind the quality and reliability of their portable power station.
#2 EcoFlow River 2 Pro
The EcoFlow River 2 Pro is a compact and versatile device that combines features from the Delta 2 Series with 768 watt hours of LFP battery capacity. Weighing just 17 lbs, it’s similar to a hefty UPS making it perfect for camping, emergency power in smaller homes, or on the road usage.
It can handle loads between 60W and 200W and comes with 4 110V AC outlets, 4 USB ports, and 3 12V connectors. For those who want to use solar energy, it can be paired with two of EcoFlow’s 160W panels, charging in 4.5 to 9 hours.
Alternatively, AC charging is swift at just 70 minutes. To keep users informed, a monochrome display provides essential details. However, the EcoFlow app elevates the user experience with in-depth monitoring and control options.
#3 Anker 767 Portable Solar Generator
The Anker 767 portable solar generator is equipped with lithium iron phosphate batteries which are known for their durability regarding repeat charging and discharging compared to common lithium ion cells. According to Ankor, it can charge and discharge up to 3,000 times before it reaches 80% battery health, which is much better than the 500 times in a similar lithium ion setup. While I haven’t had the chance to run it through 3,000 cycles, the Anker 767 has a well-earned reputation for longevity and overall performance.
The power station has a built-in battery with a 2,048 watt hour capacity and can produce up to 2,400 watts of power. It has four standard AC outlets, an RV outlet, two 120W car outlets, two 12V USB-A ports and three 100W USB-C ports. I’ve used it during blackouts to keep our Wi-Fi running while charging my family’s devices and it has enough juice to power a small meat freezer for 4 hours before the power comes back on.
The Anker 767 has built-in wheels and an extendable handle, making it easy to transport despite its weight of 67.3 lbs. It’s compatible with Ankor’s 200W solar panels which fold out for easy transportation. I mostly charge the unit through my home’s AC power which is a surprisingly quick process. It takes less than half an hour to charge from flat to more than 80% and about 2 hours to get it fully juiced.
With sufficient power, Ankor 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. Overall, the Anker 767 portable power station is a reliable and versatile unit that can handle various power needs during emergencies or outdoor adventures.
#4 BLUETTI AC200 Max Solar Generator
The BLUETTI AC200 Max solar generator is a solar generator system perfect for living off the grid. It comes equipped with an impressive high capacity LiFePO4 battery and three solar panels providing safe and reliable power when needed.
The accompanying powerful inverter ensures that a large amount of power can be generated all day for free to run at home. It also boasts unmatched efficiency and versatility as it can even work in low-light situations, making it ideal for people who need energy but don’t live in the sunniest areas.
This pick also supports dual charging, taking solar and AC input, and can be fully recharged in less than 5 hours when using three solar panels. There are 16 ports available to connect all kinds of devices including AC, USB, and auxiliary ports.
Wireless charging adds to the convenience factor too, and you even get an AC adapter and solar car charging cables included in the package. With all the connection options, you can use this generator with any type of device without any worry.
#5 Jackery Explorer 1000
The Jackery Explorer power station is a reliable choice with a maximum capacity of 1000 watts. Although it’s a bit slower than some of the other models on this list, it can still power your electronics for longer periods. It’s perfect for powering smaller devices and for off-grid camping. However, due to its lower output it may not be able to run larger appliances.
This model comes with 8 ports including 2 AC outlets, 2 USB-C ports, a 12-volt car port, and 2 standard USB-A outlets. It can charge a typical laptop up to 8 times and power a small refrigerator or cooler for over 15 hours.
You can charge this unit with solar panels or a 12V outlet in your vehicle while you’re on the move. It has standard charging times of 11.5 hours with a car outlet, 6.5 hours for solar panels, and just 5.5 hours to fully charge in a wall outlet.
#6 EcoFlow Delta 2 Max
The EcoFlow Delta 2 Max is a powerful battery pack with a capacity of 2048 watt hours. You can charge it using up to 1000 watts of solar panels and get an 80% charge in just 43 minutes. This is significantly faster than other models available on the market. If you plug it into a wall socket, you can charge it from 0 to 80% in just 1.1 hours, which is still quite speedy. This is especially helpful if you have limited opportunities to top off your solar generator during use.
In our testing, we were able to charge the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max above 80% in just under an hour even without perfect sun conditions. The EcoFlow Delta 2 Max offers an impressive range of connectivity options. It has 6 AC outlets, which is more than many larger models offer. This is useful if you want to run multiple devices or chargers simultaneously.
If you need more capacity, you can add two extra external batteries to get a total storage of 6kW. The device weighs 51 lbs, making it one of the heavier solar generators in its category. However, it has chunky handles on top that make it easy to carry around. In our testing, everyone in our family was able to move it in and out of the back of our Honda CRV without any issues. However, it doesn’t have wheels so you’ll have to carry it or put it on a cart.
Ultimately, the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max is a high-end device. Its fast charging is impressive, the display is clear, and it offers a wide range of connectivity options. The display could be brighter but it’s still relatively bright.
What To Look For
When selecting a solar generator, there are a few key factors to consider:
Battery Capacity
The battery capacity indicates how much energy the solar generator can store. This will determine how long you can power devices before needing to recharge. Most models range from 500Wh to over 2000Wh. Consider what you want to run and for how long to determine the ideal capacity.
Weight and Portability
If you want to take your solar generator on camping trips or in your RV, weight and portability are important. Look for units under 50 pounds with built-in handles or wheels if you’ll be moving it often. More portable models tend to have lower capacities.
Recharge Speed
Solar generators recharge through solar panels, car outlets, or AC power. Recharge times can range from 1-12 hours depending on the model. Faster recharge speeds allow you to get back to full power more quickly. This is especially useful for off-grid use.
Available Ports
Solar generators offer various ports like AC outlets, USB ports, 12V car outlets, and RV outlets. Consider which ports you need to run your essential devices and appliances. More ports allow you to power more items simultaneously.
Powering Essentials
The top solar generators featured in this article provide sufficient power for essential devices when you’re off the grid. Here are some of the key items you can power:
Laptops – Most solar generators can provide steady power for laptop charging. The EcoFlow Delta 2 Max with its high capacity battery can charge a laptop around 10 times before needing a recharge.
Phones – All the solar generators reviewed have USB ports to easily charge phones, tablets and other small devices. The Anker 767 has up to 22 USB ports ensuring you can charge multiple devices simultaneously.
Lights – Whether you need lighting at your campsite or emergency lighting during a power outage, solar generators like the Jackery Explorer 1000 can run efficient LED lights for many hours.
Small Appliances – From a mini fridge to a coffee maker, smaller appliances under 200 watts can run for several hours off a solar generator like the Bluetti AC200 Max.
Medical Devices – For those who rely on medical devices like CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators and nebulizers, a solar generator ensures you have reliable power anywhere. The EcoFlow River 2 Pro provides high-quality power suitable for sensitive medical devices.
Emergency Preparedness
Solar generators can provide critical backup power during emergencies and unexpected power outages. With unpredictable weather and the potential for disasters, having a reliable power source gives peace of mind.
Power outages from storms, floods, and other weather events can last for days, leaving you without electricity for light, refrigeration, and communication. A solar generator allows you to power essentials like lights, phones, laptops, and small appliances to get through extended outages. Models with higher wattage capacities can even handle larger loads like your refrigerator or freezer.
Those living off-grid know reliable power is a necessity for modern living. With solar generators, you can store solar energy captured during the day to use when needed. This provides a clean and quiet alternative to fuel-powered generators. Larger solar generator systems can fully power homes and cabins sustainably.
Having emergency backup power prepares you for any situation where electricity is disrupted or unavailable. Investing in a quality solar generator provides assurance that you’ll be able to meet critical power needs during prolonged outages.
Camping/RV
RVs and campsites often don’t have readily available power outlets. This leaves campers relying on noisy, gas-powered generators or going completely off-grid. Solar generators offer a clean, quiet power alternative perfect for RV life and camping adventures.
With a solar generator, RVers can power appliances and electronics without disturbing fellow campers. The silent operation allows you to run devices day or night. Solar generators also produce no emissions, making them ideal for use in national parks and conservation areas.
For off-grid adventures, solar generators with rechargeable batteries offer freedom. You can explore remote spots without compromising access to electricity. Set up solar panels or plug your generator into your RV/car to recharge the batteries. Then tap into stored energy to run lights, small appliances, and electronic devices. With smart power management, a quality solar generator has enough capacity to handle several days off-grid.
Recreational vehicles have limited interior space, so a compact, portable solar generator is key. Look for units with handles and/or wheels to make transporting easier. Powerful inverters will ensure you can operate RV appliances and electronics when you need them.
Charging Options
Solar generators offer flexibility in how you can recharge them. Here are some of the main options:
Solar Panels
Recharging with solar panels allows you to tap into renewable solar energy. Many solar generators on the market today can connect to solar panels (often sold separately) to capture the sun’s energy.
Solar panels typically fold up for easy transport. Keep in mind the wattage of the solar generator when getting solar panels – some models may require up to 1000W solar panels for the fastest recharge.
Position solar panels in direct sunlight for optimal energy capture. Recharging via solar may take several hours depending on the capacity of the battery and panels.
AC Wall Outlet
One of the fastest ways to recharge a solar generator is by plugging it into an AC wall outlet. Most models can recharge from 0-80% in 1-2 hours.
This is the most convenient option when you have access to the grid at home. Simply connect the solar generator to an outlet overnight or whenever you need a quick recharge.
Car Outlet
Many solar generators can plug into your car’s 12V outlet to recharge while you’re on the go. This allows you to top it off while driving.
Recharge times are typically slower than AC at 6-12 hours. But it’s a handy option for keeping your solar generator powered up if you’re traveling or living in your vehicle.
Safety Tips
When using a solar generator, following basic safety precautions can prevent potential hazards.
Proper Ventilation
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Only operate your solar generator in well-ventilated areas. Never run it indoors or in enclosed spaces like tents or RVs. The fumes from the generator can be dangerous.
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Don’t obstruct the ventilation ports. Make sure there is adequate airflow around the unit.
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Avoid operating in high temperatures. Heat can damage components and the battery.
Charge Battery Before Storage
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Charge the battery to about 30-50% of capacity before storing for long periods. This extends the battery’s lifespan.
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Store the solar generator in a cool, dry place. High temperatures degrade batteries faster.
Check Condition Periodically
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Visually inspect the solar generator, cables, and connectors periodically for any signs of damage.
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Clean the solar panels regularly with a soft cloth to keep them dust-free for optimal efficiency.
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Test the unit every 6 months and recharge the battery if needed. This helps maintain battery health.
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Replace any deteriorated or damaged parts like cables immediately. Don’t take risks with electrical safety.
Following basic safety measures helps ensure safe, reliable, and long-lasting performance from your solar generator. Handle the equipment with care and caution.
Conclusion
Recap our top picks for solar generators:
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The EcoFlow Delta 2 Max is our top overall pick. It has a high capacity battery, very fast charging speeds, and a wide range of connectivity options.
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The Jackery Explorer 1000 is a reliable lower-capacity option perfect for smaller devices and off-grid camping.
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For a complete solar power package, the BLUETTI AC200 Max is a great choice. It comes with solar panels and high-efficiency performance.
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The Anker 767 offers great durability and can handle various power needs during emergencies or outdoor adventures.
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EcoFlow River 2 Pro is a compact, versatile device perfect for on-the-go and emergency usage.
When choosing a solar generator, key factors to consider include:
- Battery capacity – how much power it can store
- Power output – the wattage it can support for devices
- Charging speed – how quickly it recharges, via solar and/or wall outlet
- Portability – size, weight, handles for easy transport
- Durability – can it withstand frequent use and recharging
- Connectivity – outlets available (AC, USB, etc) to power devices
- Price – get the features you need at the best value
Take into account your intended use – emergencies, camping, RV, home backup, etc. Understanding your needs will help determine the ideal solar generator for you. Do your research to get the best product for the price.