Powerstation Test: The best for camping & power outages

The battery life of our devices is always an issue, and it’s not just an issue for smartphones.

When you go camping or on a road trip, your devices need to be charged. And what happens if the electricity goes out at home?

With good power stations, you no longer have to worry about charging your devices when you need it

most.

The best power stations offer enough power for many devices at the same time and you also use a power station as a power backup in the event of power failures.

With this small but powerful device, you are ready for the day.

Let’s now look at the best power stations and you will surely find a device that suits your needs.

Power station comparison – the quick overview

Let’s get straight to the best power stations that I had in my hand and could test.

The table gives you a quick overview to find the right power station for camping.

Power station test – the 8 best devices at a glance
Powerstation Battery The charging cycle battery technology weight Max. input power exits Price
Jackery Explorer 500Best entry-level power station for camping 518 Wh / 500 Watt 2500 Li-Ionene 6 kg 100 W. 1x 230V/500W socket, 3x USB-A output $
Bluetti EB70 PowerOakIn Combi with Solarpower ein Mega-Team 716 Wh / 1000 Watt 2500 LiFePO4 9,3 kg 200 W. 2x 1000W AC output, 1x 100W PD output, 1x USB-A output, 1x DC 5521/car interface, 1x 15W wireless charging pad $
Goal Zero Yeti 1000X – Self- sufficient power supply for the crisis 1045 Wh / 1500 W 500 LiNMC 17,2 kg 300 W. 2x 2.4 A USB-A Ausgang, 1x 60 W USB-C PD Port (input/output), 18 W USB-C Ausgang $$$
EcoFlow DELTA mini – Best Camping Powerstation 882 Wh / 1400 Watt 800 Li-Ionene 10,7 kg 900 W AC / Solar 300 W 2 x power outlet output, 2x USB-A output, 1x USB-C output $$
EcoFlow RIVER Proexpandable for full power 720 Wh / 600 Watt 800 Li-Ionene 7,5 kg 500 W AC / Solar 200 W 2x mains socket output, 1x car charging socket, 1x USB-C 100 W output, 2x USB-A output $$
Anker 757 PowerhouseFull power for crisis management and as a UPS 1229 Wh / 1500 Watt 3000 LiFePO4 19,9 kg 1000 watts 2x AC output, 4x USB-A output, 2x USB-C output $$$
Jackety Explorer 2000 ProThe best jackety yet 2160 Wh / 2200 Watt 1000 LiNMC 19,5 kg 1800 W AC / 1400 W Solar 2x AC output, 2x USB-A output, 2x USB-C output $$$$
Zendure SBP2000 SolarThere Newcomer 2096 Wh / 3000 Watt 3000 LiNMC 21,2 kg 1800 W AC / 2400 W Solar 4x AC output, 4x USB-C output, 4x DC output $$$$

In the following, I will now go into detail and you will find out what power stations are and who uses them. if you are in a hurry please check out Amazon, as they offer some great power stations.

After that, you will see what the advantages and disadvantages of each power station are.

In the end, a detailed power station buying guide awaits you to help you find the best power station for your needs.

In a nutshell: what is a power station?

A power station is a large portable battery that has various connectors, such as USB ports and regular Schuko sockets. A portable power station can light up a room by powering a lamp, or in some cases keep a mini fridge running during a power outage.

Powerstation Test: The Best For Camping & Power Outages
The Bluetti EB70 in operation – Two 100 watt USB-C ports operate larger devices, such as a laptop, without worries. There are also two Schuko sockets on the power station, to which you can connect normal household appliances.

Power stations are a great convenience on camping trips or a backyard movie night aid when a projector and speakers are running.

What’s particularly great is that you charge most power stations via a solar panel. With the mobile power supply, you can also charge and operate your devices in the wilderness.

Furthermore, a power station with a solar panel is the perfect backup for crisis prevention, such as a blackout or floods.

Who needs a mobile power station?

Of course, a mobile power station is particularly interesting for everyone who wants to be self-sufficient on the road. So for those who have little or no self-sufficient electrical installation in their vehicle.

Here are some examples:

    • Long-term campers: A camping power station is ideal for anyone who travels with a tent but still wants to charge cameras, smartphones and computers. Because devices can only be charged and operated in the car to a limited extent.
    • Occasional campers: For campers who, for example, go camping with a sparsely equipped bus or another vehicle, a portable battery is a convenient solution that is not permanently installed.
    • Caravan campers who do not have a 12V installation at all, but still want to be self-sufficient occasionally without having to convert the electrical installation, can be more independent with a power station without assembly.
    • Crisis prevention: If you are worried about being affected by a power outage or blackout, stock up on a power station.
    • Owners of older buses who do not feel like modernizing the technology but still want to carry modern electronic devices with them also have a convenient retrofit option with a power station.
    • Travellers who need to operate medical equipment. Patients can operate the corresponding devices with a power station, for example.
    • Anglers who want to prepare coffee, tea or food have a nearly silent power plant with them.
Powerstation Test: The Best For Camping & Power Outages
Often included in car camping: The Jackery Explorer 1000 with two 100 watt solar panels

Quick overview: What you should look out for when buying a power station

Mobile power stations deliver power where and when you need it, whether it’s during a power outage, on a family weekend camping trip, or anywhere else.

When choosing a portable power station, I recommend you to pay attention to two essential things:

    • Battery capacity: Battery capacity is crucial – because you want a battery that can handle any situation you need it for. Workplaces, camping, and emergencies all have different needs, so make sure you choose the right power station for your needs.
    • Output wattage: Another thing to look at is the output wattage – this tells you how much power the mobile power station is putting out. If you have an output wattage of about 500 watts, you will not be able to boil water that requires 1000 watts.

I’ve examined dozens of power stations, from large solar generators to ultra-portable power banks, examining key factors like battery capacity, output power, size and portability, and feature sets to see which ones stand out.

My favourite power stations are currently the Anker 757 Powerhouse and the Bluetti EB70

I particularly like the Anker 757 Powerhouse because of its full power. It is ingenious for crisis prevention – but unfortunately heavy and large. A real powerhouse with well-thought-out technology and fantastic connections for my devices. Matching this, I own the Anker 625 solar panel with 100 watts.

For camping, I use the Bluetti EB70 with the PV200 solar panel. This power station is a lot lighter and more mobile than the Anker 757. In addition, I only need to supply my MacBook Pro when camping and that works wonderfully with the EB70 due to the two 100 watt USB-C ports.

When the Anker 757 Powerhouse isn’t available (because it’s on loan), I reach for the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro Powerstation. It offers sufficient battery capacity, can power almost any device and is compact enough to carry or store. You can buy them on the Jackery website, where you get a +1 year guarantee.

Now for my best portable power stations, and then you’ll find an in-depth buying guide where I go into more detail on battery capacity and output wattage.

Powerstation test – my 8 best devices

Jackery Explorer 500 Power Station – Best entry-level power station for camping

The Jackery Explorer Powerstation is a large power bank with versatile charging options and a 230 volt socket. The Powerstation is almost universally recommended by experts and highly rated by buyers, and with good reason.

A robust construction houses a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 518 Wh when fully charged. With its three USB ports, a 230 volt AC outlet and two 12V DC ports, the Explorer 500 can easily power a variety of devices.

Thejackery itself can be charged from an outlet or with a solar panel setup which is not included.

Powerstation Test: The Best For Camping & Power Outages

Jackery Explorer 500, 518Wh portable power station, mobile power storage with 230V/500W (peak 1000W) socket + USB, mobile power supply with LCD display for parties, camping, mobile homes, DIY

  • DEVELOPED BY JACKERY – Our Explorer 500 is a premium mobile power bank. Made of PC+ABS materials, wear-resistant and durable. Smart LCD display to show input power, output power and remaining battery power. The built-in lamp can be used as an automatic SOS signal. Dimensions: 30 x 19.3 x 23.4 cm; Weight: 6kg.
  • PERFECT MOBILE POWER SUPPLY- 1) On the Go: Keep digital devices like cameras, GoPro and drones fully charged. 2) RVs: Mini-fridges, coffee makers, and stoves without powering additional equipment. 3) Parties: mixers, projectors, and TVs to have a lot of fun. 4) Outdoor activities: supports the charging of e-bikes, kayak batteries and much more. 5) At home: perfect choice for your tools or as an emergency generator.
  • CONVINCING PERFORMANCE – The high-quality, long-life lithium-ion battery supplies the 230V/500W socket (peak value 1000W), 3 USB-A ports and the 12V car connection with enough power. Easy to charge with solar panel, power supply or in the car.
  • CLIMATE-NEUTRAL & SAFE – Compared to the traditional generators, the Jackery Powerstation is more environmentally friendly and requires no petrol or other fuel. Integrated solar charge controller with MPPT technology helps achieve maximum charging efficiency. The BMS battery management system enables overheat protection, short circuit protection, overcurrent protection and overcharge protection for maximum safety.

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With the Jackery Explorer 500 you not only charge your smartphone but also a drone, or your laptop or you operate your mini fridge in the car or small portable television.

The possible uses are diverse, such as in the mobile home, in the garden, for DIY and as an emergency power generator. A compact, lightweight battery pack, especially for camping or multi-day trips.

Facts:

    • Battery capacity: 518 Wh / 500 Watt
    • Number of charging cycles: 2500
    • Battery Technology: Lithium Ion Battery
    • Weight: 6kg
    • Max input power: 100W
    • 1x 230V/500W socket, 3x USB-A output

advantages

Good range of charging options

Robust construction

Variety of charging methods

Disadvantages

The weight (6 kg) is too much for hiking

Solar panels are an expensive accessory

No USB-C output for laptops

Bluetti EB70 PowerOak Powerstation – Solar power with 200 Watt

The Bluetti EB70 is a power station with exceptionally good hardware, but it gets a bit noisy when charging from the socket. If that doesn’t matter to you, you can hardly go wrong with the Bluetti EB70 power station.

Powerstation Test: The Best For Camping & Power Outages

BLUETTI Portable Power Station EB70, 716Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup with 2 1000W AC Outputs (1400W Peak), 100W Type-C, Solar Generator for Car Trips, Off-Grid, Power Outages (Solar Panel Optional)

  • [Great Capacity but Small Size] – With 716Wh LFP cells and 1000W inverter, weighing only 9.3kg, the EB70 can power almost all your essential devices on the go, from phones to electric stoves.
  • [Power Supply for Travel] – In one device, including a 1000W AC socket/100W PD/USB-A/DC 5521/car interface. A 15W wireless charger makes charging your phone easier.
  • [Fast Charging] – With the built-in MPPT controller, the EB70 power station can be charged from 0 to 80% within 3 hours. It can also be charged via 200W solar or AC input.
  • [2500+ life cycles up to 80%] – The EB70 outperforms all others in terms of battery life with its ultra-safe LiFePO4 battery cells and Premium BMS technology, making it a reliable and safe power backup.

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I absolutely love that Bluetti uses the safer LiFePO4 cell technology which allows for 4x more charge/discharge cycles than standard Li-ion batteries and effectively quadruples the lifespan compared to most competitors.

LiFePO4 is also much safer than Li-ion in terms of explosion risk. With a family in tow, using this technology is a big concern of mine.

I think the 1000W max output power is enough for most camping needs. From boiling a travel kettle to running a microwave or small heater, the EB70 covered it all.

And I’ve had no issues with the relatively low 1400W surge limit. There are plenty of outputs in terms of USB and 12V connectivity, as well as the two AC outlets. I also like the phone’s wireless charging, which is a differentiator from the competition.

Coupled with the Bluetti PV200 solar panel, I feel the two work perfectly as a combination, with sufficient power being generated on a decent summer’s day in Germany. When the light is dim or it’s cloudy, I wouldn’t expect more than about 50W from the 200W solar panel.

But when does the power station run out of electricity? Unfortunately, the display of the Bluetti EB70 is inaccurate on this subject, since only 20% of steps from the battery are shown. Do you have an hour left or will it run out in the next five minutes? There’s no way to know. Please Bluetti organizes a software update to fix this.

Overall, you can’t go wrong with the EB70 power station and the PV200 solar panel – both are great devices that do their job.

Facts:

    • Battery: 716 Wh / 1000 Watt
    • Number of charging cycles: 2500
    • Batterietechnologie: LiFePO4
    • Weight: 9.3kg
    • Max input power: 200W
    • 2x 1000W AC output, 1x 100W PD output, 1x USB-A output, 1x DC 5521/car interface, 1x 15W wireless charging pad
    • 24 months guarantee

advantages

A great combination with the 200 watt solar panel

Two 100W USB-C ports

Large 716Wh/1000W LiFePO4 battery

Pure sine wave inverter works as advertised

An optimum point between performance and mobility

Disadvantages

Loud fan on the power station when charging

Power supply with a fan that is always active

Inaccurate capacity reading

In my review and test of the Bluetti EB70, you will find even more interesting facts and how the power station works with the solar panel.

Goal Zero Yeti 1000X Powerstation – self-sufficient power supply for the crisis

If you want maximum readiness, the Goal Zero Yeti 1000X is the right choice for you. This 983 Wh power plant can run multiple devices in the event of a power outage.

Powerstation Test: The Best For Camping & Power Outages

Furthermore, the Yeti system is expandable and offers options such as a home integration kit to connect the 1000X to your home’s electrical system or a battery extension to increase the capacity of the power station. Admittedly, this kind of power also costs a lot.

The Goal Zero Yeti 1000x portable power station is impressive because it has enough capacity to power small devices.

And if you buy a $250 Yeti Home Integration Kit from Goal Zero, you can connect the 1000X to your home’s electrical system to power essential devices.

You can also purchase a $400 Yeti Link Expansion Module and Yeti Tank Expansion Battery, which go beyond the 983 Wh offered by the 1000X at $450 for additional capacity.

In total, you can get around 5 kWh of electricity through Yeti Power stations and expansion packs. That’s a crazy amount of power (it won’t power an entire house for very long, but you can power essentials like lights and a fridge for a while).

Facts:

    • Batterie: 1045 Wh / 1500 W
    • Number of charging cycles: 500
    • Battery technology: Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (LiNMC)
    • Weight: 17.2kg
    • Max input power: 300W
    • 2x 2.4 A USB-A output, 1x 60 W USB-C PD Port (input/output), 18 W USB-C Ausgang

advantages

Power for days, in the truest sense of the word

Many connection options

USB-C output

EcoFlow DELTA mini 882 Wh – My best Camping Powerstation

The EcoFlow DELTA Mini has a lot of power in a relatively small and light box. It is therefore my most popular compact mobile power station for power supply on the go.

Powerstation Test: The Best For Camping & Power Outages

EcoFlow DELTA mini 882 Wh power generator supplies up to 9 devices with a 1400 W AC output power, fast charging and solar generator for outdoors, camping or travel

  • [Energy in Small Size]: The DELTA mini is an 882Wh battery power generator in a lightweight 23.6lb (10.7kg) design. Provide power anywhere outdoors so you won’t be without power when camping or travelling.
  • [Powers Virtually Any Device]: 1400W AC output and 9 ports allow you to power devices like laptops, dishwashers, and refrigerators. Excellent as an outdoor generator or for reverse power. With X-Boost you can power devices up to 2200W.
  • [X-Stream + Solar]: Fast charging power generator reaches 80% in less than 1 hour. In addition, it can be used as a solar generator for clean solar radiation and up to 300W input power with Maximum Point Optimization (MPPT).
  • [Safety First]: A portable power generator with a sturdy design and BMS system protection to ensure your safety. Monitors voltage, current, short circuit and temperature in real-time.

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There are smaller and more powerful options out there, but the Delta Mini does a great job, offering incredible sustained power, a large battery capacity, and a decent range of inputs and outputs.

The Powerstation has all of this in a package small enough to stash in your closet for emergencies or toss in your car or RV for a road trip.

Weighing around 10.7 kilos, the Ecoflow DELTA Mini has a large 882-watt-hour battery that will keep your phone and laptop charged during an extended power outage, or take your cooler, microwave or even a portable coffee maker with you for short periods of time-powered.

If you’re concerned about an approaching blackout that could cut off your power, this power station has a quick charge feature that can take it from zero to full in just over an hour and a half. Of course, you can also connect a solar module.

The only problem with this power station is that it lacks conveniences like wireless charging for the phone and there is no built-in emergency light.

Facts:

    • Battery: 882 Wh / 1400 Watt
    • Number of charging cycles: 800
    • Battery Technology: Lithium Ion Battery
    • Weight: 10.7kg
    • Max Input Power: 900W AC / Solar 300W
    • 2 x power outlet output, 2x USB-A output, 1x USB-C output
    • 2 year guarantee

advantages

Compact and light

Good battery capacity for the size

fast charge option

great app

Disadvantages

No wireless charging

No emergency light

EcoFlow RIVER Pro – expandable for full power

If you’re regularly disconnected from a power source, be it in your car or because you do a lot of camping – the EcoFlow RIVER Pro has the power to meet your off-grid needs.

Powerstation Test: The Best For Camping & Power Outages

EcoFlow RIVER Pro Portable Power Station 720Wh, power supply for multiple devices, charge from 0 to 80% within 1 hour, for camping, home backup emergency, outdoor, RV, off-grid

  • [2 AC Outlets with 600W and 720Wh Capacity]: The RIVER Pro portable power station can power up to 9 devices simultaneously with multiple connection options including 2 pure sine wave AC outlets. Note that the total wattage rating of AC outlets should be less than 600W (1200W surge).
  • [Charge from 0 to 80% in 1 hour]: Thanks to the patented EF EcoFlow X-Stream technology, your RIVER Pro can be charged from 0 to 80% in just one hour and fully charged in just 1.6 hours.
  • [Power a Variety of Devices]: With the built-in 600W inverter, the power station RIVER Pro can power specific devices up to 1,200W in X-Boost mode. Thus, RIVER Pro can power around 80% of all major devices such as kitchen appliances and DIY tools. Run a full test on a case-by-case basis to check if the X-Boost feature works with your devices.
  • [Double the capacity from 720Wh to 1,440Wh]: Double the capacity from 720Wh to 1,440Wh by connecting an additional RIVER Pro battery. This is ideal for situations like travel, camping or group outdoor activities where more power is needed for more devices. The RIVER Pro spare battery is sold separately.

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For normal devices, tablets, smartphones and lamps, the battery should last a few days before it needs to be charged. However, the Powerstation can also handle more powerful devices.

Given the size of the battery inside, the EcoFlow RIVER Pro is comparatively inexpensive, and the two AC plugs provide additional flexibility. I didn’t find the Wi-Fi connection that useful and the flap covering the charging ports could be sturdier, but other than those little things, this is an excellent portable power station.

Facts:

    • Battery: 720 Wh / 600 Watt
    • Number of charging cycles: 800
    • Battery Technology: Lithium Ion Battery
    • Weight: 7.6kg
    • Max Input Power: AC 500W / Solar 200W
    • 2x mains socket output, 1x car charging socket, 1x USB-C 100 W output, 2x USB-A output
    • 2 year product guarantee

advantages

Built-in charger

Considerable UPS operation possible: switchover time 0.3s

Charges in 1.6 hours (0 to 80% charge in 1 hour)

100W USB-C power delivery for laptops

Can handle televisions and household appliances

Built-in LED light

Double the capacity from 720 Wh to 1440 Wh by connecting an additional RIVER Pro battery

EcoFlow-App

Disadvantages

Expensive

Relatively small capacity

Wireless charging pads are missing

Anker 757 Powerhouse Powerstation – full power for crisis management and as a UPS

The Powerhouse 757 is a solid, robust and large power station. If you are looking for a power station with over 1,000 Wh, the Anker 757 is a great choice.

Powerstation Test: The Best For Camping & Power Outages

Anker 757 Power Station, Powerhouse 1229Wh with LiFePo4 battery, 1500W solar charger, 2 ports, solar panel optional, 2 USB-C ports 100W Max, LED light, Suitable for camping & power outages

  • 6X LIFETIME: Rated for 3000 battery cycles with high-quality LiFePO4 batteries, battery life is extended by 6X compared to standard lithium-ion batteries. Always ready for energy at home or when camping outdoors.
  • The unprecedented life force of 10 years: Instead of 2 years, the 757 Portable Power Station allows you to power your devices every day for 10 years. You can also rely on an exclusive 5-year total guarantee.
  • LIGHTNING FAST RECHARGE: With our in-house, industry-leading HyperFlash technology, the charging station is charged to 80% battery in just 1 hour. (Alternatives take about 5.6 hours.)
  • POWERFUL CAPACITY: With a capacity of 1229Wh and 1500 watts, this PowerHouse is not only the ideal solution for urgent emergencies and power outages but also for relaxed camping with an electric grill, coffee maker, refrigerator and more. It is equipped with 2 AC ports, 4 USB-A ports, 2 USB-C ports and a car socket.

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There are a few notable features that Anker has packed into this device, which is why the power station dominates in the high-end category.

For starters, I would like to mention the battery here, because the battery pack is a LiFePO4 battery and is a head turner compared to the more common Li-ion batteries.

This newer type of battery is safer to use and will last five to six times longer than a Li-Ion battery. This means that compared to the current standard of 500 cycles lifespan, LiFePO4-equipped batteries can last 3,000 cycles or more.

This allows Anker to offer a five-year warranty compared to the two-year warranty on many competing devices.

Next, many current-generation power plants come with a UPS mode to provide backup power to critical equipment during power outages. You plug the power station into your socket and the device in question into your power station. The Anker 757 also has such a UPS mode.

When UPS mode is activated, the power station turns on and powers whatever is connected to it from its internal battery.

anchor 757 on desktop

It’s hard for me to fault the Anker PowerHouse 757. The 1500W of power is enough to power even the most power-hungry devices, and the 1229Wh battery can keep lower-powered devices going for days.

I was also impressed by the loading speed. I was able to fully charge this device straight from the mains in less than 1.5 hours.

Facts:

    • Battery: 1229 Wh / 1500 Watt
    • Number of charging cycles: 3000
    • Batterietechnologie: LiFePO4
    • Weight: 19.9 kg
    • Max input power: 1000W
    • 2x AC output, 4x USB-A output, 2x USB-C output
    • 5 Year Total Warranty

advantages

Lots of power – 1500W AC output with up to 2400W surge

Built-in charger

FAST CHARGING – Charged to 80% battery in just 1 hour

Excellent selection of exit ports

Helpful power-saving mode

Built-in LED panel lamp

Solarfreundlich

can act as a UPS battery backup

Disadvantages

Very difficult

Expensive

No dust or water resistance

Not expandable

If you don’t need the power or capacity of this unit at the top of Anker’s range, Anker also offers smaller models including the 500W 535 and 200W 521 PowerHouse models, all still powered by long-life LiFePO4 – Batteries are fitted.

Jackety Explorer 2000 Pro – The best jackety yet

jackery solar generators are essentially massive lithium-ion batteries and in the explorer series, each model number roughly corresponds to the battery’s watt-hour rating.

For the Explorer 2000 Pro this means a total capacity of 2160 Wh, with up to 2200 W continuous power and 4400 W overvoltage.

Powerstation Test: The Best For Camping & Power Outages

Jackery Explorer 2000 PRO, 2160Wh portable power station with 230V/2200W sockets, fast charging with AC/solar panel, mobile power supply for outdoor motorhome DIY and as an emergency power generator

  • HUGE CAPACITY: The portable Powerstation Explorer 2000 Pro delivers a massive charging capacity (2160 Wh) and powers all devices including stovetops, blenders, air conditioners and more. The perfect solution for off-grid outdoor activities (camping or RV) and home backup power.
  • SUPER FAST AC CHARGING: The power station can be fully charged with 6 SolarSaga 200 watt solar panels in less than 2.5 hours and in just 2 hours from an AC outlet. This fantastic charging experience allows you to charge your devices off the grid.
  • FIRST-CLASS SECURITY: The premium lithium battery contains two chips for double battery protection and four core temperature sensors. For even more safety and a reliable charging process.
  • INSTANT PRESS & PLAY: With a simple push of a button, excellent charging efficiency is achieved in seconds. The Explorer 2000 Pro operates at less than 53dB, ensuring quiet and peaceful charging.

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The Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro itself is by far the highest quality design I have seen from jackery to date. Everything about the power station feels extremely premium and is an improvement over previous models.

While previous Jackerys solar generator products had a permanently attached handle that protrudes from the top, the 2000 Pro’s handle can be folded back. Simple improvements like these make a big difference when it comes to storage and transportation.

The SolarSaga 200 solar panels leave a little to be desired in terms of efficiency, but the Explorer 2000 Pro lives up to its name. Six solar panels with a peak power of 200W should provide a theoretical maximum input power of 1200W and while I don’t expect 100 percent efficiency, my tests showed 960W under ideal conditions.

If you want to use the Explorer 2000 Pro with the recommended six solar panels, you can expect a sophisticated product, but you still pay more than USD6000 for it. Since that’s a lot of money, I recommend you buy through the official Jackery website – because they come with a 5-year guarantee!

But you get what you pay for. It’s difficult to find anything truly essential to criticize this product for.

Facts:

    • Battery: 2160 Wh / 2200 Watt
    • Number of charging cycles: ≥1000 cycles up to 80%
    • Battery technology: Li-Ion NMC
    • Weight: 19.5kg
    • Max input power: 1800W AC / 1400W solar
    • 2x AC output, 2x USB-A output, 2x USB-C output

advantages

An ideal blend of capacity, performance and portability with tons of ports

Supports up to 1400W solar input and 2200W AC output

Great build quality

One-touch output activation

Intuitive display

Collapsible handle

Disadvantages

More expensive, but not a real replacement for gas-powered backup generators

Manufacturer-specific solar panel connectors

No remote monitoring app

Weak port covers

Zendure SBP2000 Solar Powerstation – Best value for money

The mobile power station scene has experienced a mini-revolution since the pandemic began. The price per watt has dropped significantly thanks to stiff competition from many newcomers to the industry.

Zendure, a company founded in 2013, is one of them and recently introduced its first battery-based high-power generator SBP2000.

Powerstation Test: The Best For Camping & Power Outages

Zendure SBP2000 Solar Power Station, 2096Wh Portable Solar Generator, Power Generator with 4 AC 2000W Outputs for Outdoor Use, Suitable for Camping, Power Outages

  • 2096Wh Huge Capacity: The large capacity of 2096Wh can provide continuous power supply during power outages, camping trips, etc., and can also be used as a backup power supply for Tesla cars.
  • Fast Charge to 80% in 1 Hour: Supports the industry’s highest 2400W solar input, 1800W AC input, etc. up to 7 charging methods, 80% full charge in 1 hour, and the fastest 1.5 hours full charge.
  • BMS-Battery Protection System: Zendure SBP 2000 is equipped with a BMS battery management system to monitor real-time voltage, current, short circuit and temperature to protect you and your equipment.
  • Portable Move Designed: Portable design with industrial grade wheels, retractable aluminium handle and low centre of gravity for easy portability and mobility for easy camping trips.

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The 2000 W SuperBase Pro is equipped with a 2 kW inverter (with an efficiency of 92.9%), a battery capacity of 2.1 kWh and many USB ports as well as DC and AC outputs.

The Powerstation differs from the competition in that it is a connected device thanks to 4G and Wi-Fi radios. The companion app offers some options that are not available through the front display on the device. Features like a power factor display and many USB Type-C sockets make the Zendure SBP2000 solar power station stand out from the crowd.

Two other important ingredients are a speedy loading time and a super competitive price. A bonus is that the SuperBase can be used as a UPS – charging the battery only when needed while connected to the mains. What’s missing is a stable mobile app and USB-A sockets that older phones still use.

The price of Zendure’s 2000W flagship makes for a very competitive product with many features only available on high-end devices. Zendure’s products are aimed at an environmentally conscious, tech-savvy and younger audience.

Facts:

    • Battery: 2096 Wh / 3000 Watt
    • Number of charging cycles: 3000
    • Battery technology: Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC)
    • Weight: 21.2kg
    • Max input power: 1800W AC / 2400W solar
    • 4x AC output, 4x USB-C output, 4x DC output
    • 2 year guarantee

advantages

Fast charge to 80% in 1 hour

Portable design with wheels

With integrated GPS and 4G IoT hardware

12 output ports

with app

has a built-in UPS

Disadvantages

Very difficult

The screen always on when in use

The fan is a little noisy

Buying guide: How do you find the right power station for you?

In my Power stations test, I have now introduced you to a number of great power stations and of course, there are other Power stations on the market.

Maybe you’ve already found your dream device in the list, but you’re still unsure. Then read my buying guide and it will be easier for you to find the right power station for camping, mobile home or car.

In the buying guide for power stations you will find out which facts are important if you want to buy a power station

In the buying guide for power stations, you will find out which facts are important if you want to buy a power station

Size and portability

Mobile power stations are all quite portable, but some are decidedly easier to carry than others. The size of the battery largely determines the overall size and portability.

Portable power stations with large battery capacities will always be physically large, and there isn’t much room for innovation. Some manufacturers manage to make their mobile power stations a little smaller than others or design them to be easier to carry or store.

But first and foremost, you should always consider battery capacity and performance over size.

If a power station doesn’t have enough power to keep it going or isn’t able to run your devices, it doesn’t matter how small, light or portable it is.

Battery capacity

The battery capacity refers to the amount of energy that the mobile power station can store. Capacity is highly dependent on the scenario you will be using the power station in, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Now if you’re looking for something to use in an emergency power outage, then you need a higher-capacity battery. A power station with a lower capacity may be sufficient for camping. Of course, this also depends on your needs.

Battery capacity is measured in watt-hours. One watt-hour (1Wh) means that one watt of power is delivered in one hour.

For example, if you connect a TV that consumes 60 watts to a mobile power station with 600 watts of power, the battery would be completely empty after ten hours of watching TV.

But also note that you still lose some performance due to inefficiency, heat and other factors. So never expect a mobile power station to run for as long as you have mathematically calculated it under perfect conditions.

Output

Mobile power station output is measured in watts, and there are two numbers to look out for.

    • Continuous power: This is the wattage that the power station can deliver continuously.
    • Peak power: This is the wattage that the power station can deliver for a short time – also known as peak power.

Some devices, like air conditioners and refrigerators, draw much more power when first turned on than when they are running, so with a high peak wattage rating, you can safely plug in such a device.

It is essential to check the wattage of each device you want to connect to your mobile power station. Accordingly, you then have to buy the right device.

Tip: If you anticipate plugging in two or more devices at the same time, add those wattages plus another 10 to 20 percent for safety and use that as a baseline.

Loading speed and options

The primary methods of charging a power station are to connect:

    • to a wall outlet
    • a solar module
    • to the cigarette lighter of a vehicle

Charging from a wall socket is usually the fastest and also the most common. For example, the Anker 757 Powerhouse power station can be charged in 1.5 hours when charging from a 230V socket – but takes eight hours and more when charging from a 12V car cigarette lighter socket.

Charging from the car cigarette lighter can be a useful option, but it’s also very slow. The most important thing is that you look at how much input power the power station has. The higher this is, the faster you charge.

My wall outlet in my apartment supplies me with up to 3000 watts, but most small power stations can handle a maximum of 100 (like the Jackery Explorer 500) to 300 (like the Bluetti EB70 PowerOak) watts – that’s why charging takes a long time.

Other devices, such as the Anker 757 Powerhouse can handle up to 1000 watts of input power and the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro even up to 1800 watts. These devices are then usually fully charged in one to two hours.

The speed of charging via solar panels varies:

    • depending on the wattage of the solar panel
    • the local conditions
    • the maximum input wattage

The good thing about solar panels is that you can use them anywhere. Even if it’s cloudy, you can easily charge your smartphone with a 200 W solar panel (e.g. with the solar panel PV200 from Bluetti or the Jackery SolarSaga 200 ). For me, this is perfect, especially for camping power supplies.

Solar charging is a great way to keep the mobile power station charged and ready to go.
Solar charging is a great way to keep the mobile power station charged and ready to go.

Solar panels are ingenious for use in areas where there is no grid access or where only a low-wattage outlet is available. Power failure? This is where the power station comes into play or when you need to stay off the grid for a long period of time.

Good to know: Powerful solar chargers are faster than plugging into your car, but slower than plugging into a 230 volt socket in your house.E

Exits and entrances

Portable power stations include a variety of connections, including 230 volt outlets, USB-A and USB-C ports, 12 volt accessory ports, and 12 volt barrel connectors.

Some include one or more of these options, while others only have USB ports, 230 volt outlets, or various combinations.

If you expect to have to connect two or three 230 volt devices at the same time, choose a portable power station with at least as many sockets.

If you have devices like smartphones and laptops that can be quickly charged via USB-C, make sure your power station has at least one USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port.

If you have to connect certain devices, find out beforehand which connection options the power station hasIf you have to connect certain devices, find out beforehand which connection options the power station has.

Where should you store your portable power station?

Your power station should be stored in a cool, dry place when not in use. Don’t keep them in a place that will get hot or get damp or wet.

It’s okay to keep the Powerstation in your car or RV while travelling, but leaving it there permanently will shorten battery life.

In addition to storing the power station in an air-conditioned space, it’s also a good idea to store it with about 40 to 50 percent charge. This is better for the power station’s battery life than storing it with a full charge.

Attention, there is of course an exception. If you live in an area where you expect power outages, then of course you always charge your power station to the brim. Having your power station ready for emergencies is more important than maximizing battery life.

For whom is a mobile power station not suitable?

A power station is not necessary for people for whom the electrical installation in their mobile home is sufficient. If you only want to use electricity inside the RV, a portable battery offers no added value.

And if you buy the inverter, solar charge controller and battery as individual parts, you can choose the specification for each component individually.

With a power station, the device is of course only available as it is offered by the manufacturer. 600 Wh is enough, but do you want a 2000 watt inverter to go with it? I’m sorry, that’s not available as a package.

A heavy power station is not useful for longer hikes - power banks or small, compact solar modules are ideal here
A heavy power station is not useful for longer hikes – power banks or small, compact solar modules are ideal here

In addition, a mobile power station for camping without a car is far too heavy. So it will hardly be the right choice for backpackers or trekking enthusiasts. You just don’t want to drag a 6 kg battery over many kilometres. So you need a car for a power station in order to be able to transport it comfortably.

The capacity of the power station compared to the on-board battery in the mobile home

How much is 600 Wh? Well, to give you a feeling, let’s compare it to a typical onboard battery in an RV.

However, the comparison with the battery in the mobile home is not so easy, since the capacity is given in Ah (ampere hour).

So you have to do some math. The capacity of the onboard battery in the mobile home must be converted into watt hours. You do this by multiplying the ampere-hours by the voltage. The voltage in an RV is typically 12.7V.

To make the calculation easier, I assume a battery with 100 Ah. You multiply this 100 Ah by 12.7 V. The result: 1270 Wh.

Weigh the pros and cons between a board battery and a power station when you're camping
Weigh the pros and cons between a board battery and a power station when you’re camping

That sounds like a lot, but you should check what type of battery you have. If your camper does not have a lithium or LiFePO4 battery installed, then you should only use half of them as a guideline. This increases the life of the battery.

So I get 635 Wh here, which you can use effectively. Some power stations level off exactly in this range and therefore offer just as much capacity as a typical battery in a motor home. And there are some additional advantages: A power station is mobile and often has additional functions such as wireless charging, a flashlight or USB-C connections.

Powerbank vs. Powerstation –Where is the difference?

A power bank is a small, handy battery that is ideal for on-the-go. The power bank does not weigh much and finds its place in a backpack or suitcase.

Power banks are sufficient for most smartphones - but you won't use them to operate a laptop
Power banks are sufficient for most smartphones – but you won’t use them to operate a laptop

The power station, on the other hand, is a large device that usually does not fit in a backpack and cannot be carried on the back. Small devices weigh around 5 kilograms and larger devices with more than 1500 watts weigh over 20 kg.

However, that is just one of the differences between the two devices. Another important factor is capacity. Most power banks have a 5,000 to 20,000 mAh battery, while power stations can have up to 100,000 mAh.

That means you’ll be able to charge your smartphone hundreds of times – way more than any regular power bank. You can also connect normal household appliances to power stations.

What is the difference between a solar generator (power station + solar panel) and a fuel generator?

Basically, the difference is that portable power stations use rechargeable batteries instead of gasoline. What power stations lack in power compared to generators, they more than make up for in portability and the ease of charging rather than refuelling.

Generators are typically used to restore power to your entire home, or at least most of your home. A generator runs on fuel, such as diesel, and is quite noisy.

A solar generator often does not have the same energy capacity as a diesel generator and is best used to keep essential medical and household equipment running until power is restored.

Solar generators do not require diesel or gasoline to operate, making them much safer to use indoors. It also means you don’t have to worry about engine maintenance.

In addition, you can charge a power station at any time via a solar panel, which you can place on your balcony or in the garden, for example.

What is the best power station for me?

That’s the big question I’m trying to answer for you in this guide.

If you’re going camping for a weekend and just want to keep a tablet charged for watching movies, something light and without a lot of capacity is fine. I would even only take a power bank with me, such as the Anker PowerCore II Powerbank with 20000 mAh.

More serious off-roaders, or anyone spending long periods off the grid, will need something heavier, preferably from 1000 watts upwards. RV owners may find themselves somewhere in between.

Think about what you want to use a power station for. And if possible, consider the specific amounts of electricity you may need to make the best choice.

best power station with buying guide

Questions and answers about the best power stations

How does a power station with a solar panel work?

Solar technology converts sunlight into electrical energy either through photovoltaic (PV) modules or through mirrors that concentrate solar radiation. This energy can be used to generate electricity or stored in batteries or heat storage.

What is the best way to charge my power station?

In most cases, the quickest way to charge a portable power station battery is to plug it into a standard AC outlet. Solar panels can be plugged into many power stations, but generally, they charge slowly, with some exceptions from higher-end power stations. In a pinch, some power stations have a port that allows charging from a 12-volt cigarette lighter, but this takes some time.

How long will 500 watts last on a power station?

If you connect a device that consumes 500 watts, the power station lasts for one hour. However, if you connect a smartphone that consumes 5 watts, you can charge your smartphone 100 times with the power station.

Can my mobile power station power all my devices?

With the facts and figures to consider when making your purchase, the maximum wattage of a portable power station is perhaps the most relevant value. If you have specific devices in mind, make sure the maximum wattage of a power station covers them. Otherwise, you risk damaging the device and the power station.

Which power station to use for the blackout?

For a blackout, you should use a powerful power station. Anything above 1000 watts is fine. The higher the battery performance, the longer you can power your devices, such as a refrigerator or your smartphone.

Can mobile power stations charge and charge at the same time?

All modern power stations can charge and charge at the same time, which is a big advantage over the smaller power banks.

Do camping power stations have 230 V connections?

Most mobile power stations for camping have 230 V connections. This is the standard voltage in Europe and many other parts of the world.

Does a power station also make sense when camping?

A mobile power station can be useful when camping if you don’t have access to a power outlet on the go. These devices can charge various electrical devices, such as laptops, smartphones and tablets. They can also be charged via a solar panel.

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