Solar generators are a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered generators. They harness the power of the sun to generate electricity, making them perfect for outdoor activities and emergency situations. A solar generator is a portable device that converts solar energy into electrical energy, which can be used to power various appliances and devices.
Best Solar Generators
We know that finding the right solar generator can be a daunting task, especially when you’re not sure what to look for. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best solar generators on the market, so you can make an informed decision. Our team of experts has researched and tested various models to bring you the most reliable and efficient options. Whether you’re camping, traveling, or preparing for a power outage, these solar generators will provide you with the power you need. So, without further ado, here are the best solar generators available today.
GRECELL Portable Power Station
We highly recommend the GRECELL Portable Power Station for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient power source for their outdoor activities or emergency backup needs.
Pros
- The huge 288Wh capacity and 330W output can support most electronic devices, including laptops, tablets, phones, lights, fans, CPAP medical devices, projectors, TV, mini-refrigerator, speaker, camera, and more.
- The upgraded battery management system provides built-in overload, overcharge, and short-circuit protection, ensuring safe and reliable operation. The dual built-in silent cooling fans help to keep the station’s temperature safe.
- The USB-C PD 60W and USB-A QC 18W outputs allow fast charging for Android and iPhone, tablets, and laptops, providing ultra-high efficiency in emergencies. All USB-A ports are quick-charge 3.0 18W, providing higher efficiency for each device.
Cons
- The price point may be higher than some other options on the market.
- The unit is relatively heavy, weighing in at 4.9 pounds, which may not be ideal for backpacking or long hikes.
- Some users have reported difficulty with the solar panel charging, although this may depend on the quality of the panel being used.
The GRECELL Portable Power Station is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient power source for their outdoor activities or emergency backup needs. With its huge capacity and versatile output options, this unit can power up to eight devices simultaneously, making it perfect for camping, car trips, and other family outings. The upgraded battery management system ensures safe and reliable operation, while the USB-C PD 60W and USB-A QC 18W outputs allow for fast charging of your devices. Although it may be slightly heavier than some other options on the market, the GRECELL Portable Power Station is a reliable and efficient choice that is well worth the investment.
Powkey Solar Generator with Panel
If you’re looking for a reliable and portable solar generator, the Powkey Solar Generator with Panel kit is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 146Wh/200W portable power station with a 40W solar panel can provide an ideal battery backup emergency power supply for home power outage or outdoor camping, travel, trip, RV or any other activities, supplying long-lasting power or energy for most of your electronic devices, such as cell phone, laptop, camera, speaker, fan, drone, mini fridge, and RV electronic accessories.
- With multiple 7 charging outlets, including 2110V Pure Sine Wave AC outlets(MAX 200W), 4USB outlets( MAX 5V/3.1A) and 1*DC outlet(MAX 15V/2A), Powkey outdoor generator can deliver stable electricity and power most of your devices at the same time. Usually, a fully charged Powkey portable power station for camping can charge your phone about 20 times(10w), camera about 13 times(15w) and laptop about 2 times(30~50w), a powerful backup battery for home and outdoor use.
- The 3 input recharging ways, charging by wall outlet(fully charged in 5~6 hours), charging by car cigar lighter or charging by Powkey solar panel(included), no longer limit you in different situations.
Cons
- The battery takes a while to fully charge.
- The surface of the solar panel is waterproof, but the outlet connector box is not.
- The solar panel needs to be moved to face the direction of the sunlight.
We recently used the Powkey Solar Generator with Panel kit on a camping trip and it worked great. The battery charged well and kept our phones powered up the whole time. The solar panels did their job, but we had to keep moving them to face the sun, which is to be expected at a campsite.
The Powkey Solar Generator with Panel kit is compact and lightweight, making it perfect for anyone wishing to travel light. The foldable solar panel can be folded in 4 layers, which greatly saves space when not in use. The built-in smart chip intelligently identifies your device and maximizes its charging speed while protecting your devices from overloading.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and portable solar generator, the Powkey Solar Generator with Panel kit is definitely worth considering.
Apowking 146Wh Portable Power Bank with AC Outlet & 40W Foldable Solar Panel
We highly recommend the Apowking 146Wh Portable Power Bank with AC Outlet & 40W Foldable Solar Panel for anyone who is looking for a reliable and portable power source for their outdoor activities.
Pros
- The 146Wh/39600mAh lithium-ion battery pack is powerful enough to charge a wide range of smart electronics such as laptops, phones, tablets, cameras, drones, fans, in-car appliances, etc.
- The portable power bank features 2x AC outlet (110V/100W) for tablet, laptop, fan, lights, etc; USB1+USB2 (5V/3.1A), USB3+USBC quick charge 3.0 (5V/3A, 9V/2A) for your phones, drones, iPad, GPS, MP3, camera, etc; 1x DC 12V output (9-12.6V/10A Max) for car vacuum, car air fan, etc.
- The flexible folding solar panel has a wide compatibility to power your phones, power banks, tablets, laptops, GPS, digital cameras and most portable power stations and solar generators.
Cons
- The junction box is not waterproof, so you need to keep it dry.
- It may not be able to power high-emission type items like a microwave or blender.
- The solar panel may not work efficiently in low light conditions.
This portable power bank with solar panel kit is perfect for camping, fishing, traveling, and powering festival led lights. It is lightweight, compact, and easy to carry wherever you go. The built-in dual LED flashlights feature three modes, light, strobe, and SOS, which are very useful and handy for a dark night in times of emergency both indoors and outdoors. The high conversion efficiency up to 20.5% makes it energy-saving and eco-friendly.
The Apowking 146Wh Portable Power Bank with AC Outlet & 40W Foldable Solar Panel is made with quality polyester fabric, sturdy and durable. The main-board is designed with IPX4 waterproof materials, suitable for some bad weather conditions, and unexpected power outages. You will receive 1x Apowking 146Wh portable power bank, 1 x 40W solar panel, 1x AC power adapter, 1x car charging cable, 1x carport cable (for output only), 1 x 5ft DC charging cable, 110-in-1 connector kit, 2x User Manual, 1x 12 months warranty, and 724 hrs prompt and friendly customer service.
SHINEGIANT Portable Power Station
If you’re looking for a reliable and portable solar generator, the SHINEGIANT Portable Power Station is a great option.
Pros
- The Type-C port can provide fast charging for your electric devices up to 60 watts, perfect for laptop office workers; the USB-A port is a Fast Charging Port that can output up to 22.5 watts, providing greater efficiency for each device.
- Equipped with a 299.52Wh /83200mAh lithium-ion battery pack and AC outlets that deliver stable and safe 300W power, outdoor generators supports most laptops, tablets, phones, lights, fans, CPAP medical devices, projectors, TV, mini-refrigerator, speaker, camera (rated power less than 300W). 299.52Wh huge capacity but light weight makes it is a compact and perfect solar generator for camping, car trips and other family outings.
- The emergency power supply features multiple USB output ports, including 2USB-A ports, 2USB-C ports, DC port, 4*AC output and and a car outlet. This battery station can run 10 essential appliances simultaneously without worrying about overloading, you can simply rest assured in outdoor off-grid activities.
Cons
- Solar panels and USB-C cable are not included.
- Some users have reported that the power station can take a long time to charge using solar panels.
- The power station is not waterproof, so it may not be the best option for use in rainy conditions.
We recently tested the SHINEGIANT Portable Power Station and were impressed with its performance. The Type-C and USB-A ports make it easy to charge multiple devices at once, and the huge battery capacity means you can power multiple appliances for hours on end.
One thing to note is that you’ll need to purchase solar panels and a USB-C cable separately if you want to charge the power station via solar power. Additionally, some users have reported that it can take a while to charge the power station using solar panels, so you may want to consider using an AC adapter instead.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the SHINEGIANT Portable Power Station to anyone in need of a reliable and portable solar generator.
Upusa Solar Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable solar generator for your camping or emergency power needs, the Upusa Solar Generator is worth considering.
Pros
- The built-in LED flashlights and 3 LED lamps with individual switch&3m cable provide light with low power consumption.
- Equipped with DC/USB outlets, it can charge small-capacity devices such as mobile phones, e-books, game consoles, cameras, MP4, etc.
- The 12500mAh power supply is solar-powered and can cycle more than 3000 times.
Cons
- The solar panel is only 5W, so it may take a while to fully charge the generator.
- The generator is not suitable for powering large appliances.
- The quality of the product may not be as high as other more expensive options.
We recently took the Upusa Solar Generator on a camping trip and were impressed with its compact design and ease of use. The LED lights were bright and lasted for several hours, and we were able to charge our phones and other small devices without any issues.
While the solar panel is not the most powerful, it was able to keep the generator charged during the day so we had power at night. However, if you need to charge the generator quickly, it’s best to use the AC charging option.
Overall, we would recommend the Upusa Solar Generator for anyone looking for a portable and reliable power source for their outdoor adventures or emergency preparedness kit.
Buying Guide
When looking to buy a solar generator, there are several factors to consider. Here, we will discuss the most important features to look for to ensure that you get the best product for your needs.
Power Output
The power output of a solar generator is measured in watts. It is important to choose a generator with a power output that matches your needs. Consider the appliances and devices that you will be powering with the generator and make sure that the generator can handle the load. Keep in mind that some devices, such as refrigerators and air conditioners, require a higher surge power than their running power.
Battery Capacity
The battery capacity of a solar generator determines how long it can provide power. It is important to choose a generator with a battery capacity that matches your needs. Consider the amount of power you will need and for how long. Keep in mind that the battery capacity will decrease over time, so choose a generator with a higher capacity than you think you will need.
Charging Options
The charging options of a solar generator determine how you can recharge it. Most solar generators can be charged using solar panels, but some can also be charged using a wall outlet or a car charger. Consider the charging options that are available to you and choose a generator that can be charged using those options.
Portability
The portability of a solar generator is an important factor to consider if you plan on using it while on the go. Consider the weight and size of the generator and whether it comes with wheels or a handle for easy transportation.
Additional Features
Some solar generators come with additional features such as built-in inverters, USB ports, and LED lights. Consider the features that are important to you and choose a generator that has those features.
In summary, when choosing a solar generator, consider the power output, battery capacity, charging options, portability, and additional features. By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a generator that meets your needs and provides reliable power when you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find a solar generator near me?
You can find solar generators at various online and brick-and-mortar retailers, such as Amazon, Home Depot, and REI. Additionally, you can search for local solar energy companies or hardware stores that specialize in renewable energy products.
How much does a Jackery solar generator cost?
The cost of a Jackery solar generator varies depending on the model and capacity. The Jackery Explorer 240, for example, costs around $249, while the Jackery Explorer 1000 is priced at around $999. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.
What are the best solar powered generators for off-grid living?
The best solar powered generators for off-grid living are those that are durable, efficient, and have a high power output. Some of the top-rated options include the Goal Zero Yeti 1400, the Renogy Phoenix, and the EcoFlow Delta. It’s important to consider your power needs and budget when choosing a solar generator for off-grid living.
Which portable solar generator is best for powering a house?
The best portable solar generator for powering a house depends on your energy needs. Some of the most popular options include the Goal Zero Yeti 3000, the Bluetti AC200P, and the Inergy Apex. These generators are capable of powering multiple appliances and devices simultaneously and can provide backup power during emergencies.
What are the top-rated solar generator kits?
The top-rated solar generator kits include the Renogy 400W Solar Panel Starter Kit, the Goal Zero Yeti 400 Solar Generator Kit, and the Jackery Explorer 1000 Power Station Solar Generator Kit. These kits come with everything you need to start generating and storing solar power, including solar panels, charge controllers, and batteries.
Can a solar generator power an entire home?
While a solar generator can provide backup power to your home during emergencies, it may not be able to power your entire home for an extended period of time. The amount of power you can generate and store with a solar generator will depend on the capacity of the generator and the amount of sunlight available. It’s important to carefully consider your energy needs and consult with a professional before relying on a solar generator as your primary source of power.
