It’s crazy how fast solar tech has grown. Ten years ago, you only saw it powering calculators. Now, it might be running a campsite or the whole house of your neighbor.
Plenty of options exist for living off-grid, whether you want a small or big setup. I’ve reviewed several solar generators and picked out the top ones. Keep reading to find the best solar generators for your situation.
Best Solar Generators: Top 7 Review
While solar generators all use the same basic tech, they come in a wide range of sizes and capabilities. I’ve spent countless hours testing these units to bring you our top picks for every common use I’ve seen out there.
Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus – Best Overall
Specifications
- Capacity: 2042 Wh
- Battery technology: LiFePO4
- Life cycles: 4000 cycles
- Max total AC output: 3000W (6000W surge)
- Max total input: 1400W
- Charing options: Solar, AC, and car adapters
Today’s best deals: Amazon
This is a versatile powerhouse that can handle just about anything you throw at it. It’s a solid choice for folks who want a reliable all-rounder for camping, backup power, or even running power tools in the field.
Feature Highlights
- The Explorer 2000 Plus is equipped with a hefty 2kWh LiFePO4 battery with a 10-year lifespan. It features advanced IBC and ChargeShield technologies for speedy charging and can work with up to six 200W solar panels at the same time.
- You can expand its capacity with extra batteries, charge it three ways, and control it via the Jackery App. It also comes with USB-A and C ports and can serve as an emergency power supply.
Reasons to Buy
- This Jackery model is a real powerhouse. With an output of 3000 watts and a surge capacity of 6000W, it has enough juice to keep most modern refrigerators running without breaking a sweat. I even put it to the test with a portable AC unit, and it kept going for nearly seven hours.
- For a camping trip, you could easily power your small appliances and gadgets for a full day or more. And if you’re planning a longer off-grid adventure, just add a battery pack and some solar panels, and you could stretch that to a week or even longer.
- The solar panels that come with this unit are a game-changer. They are simple to set up and plug directly into the generator. Under clear skies, a single panel pumped out 184 watts. Even in cloudy weather, they still produced 49 watts, more than I’ve seen from any other panel this size in low-light conditions.
- One thing that often bugs me about power stations is the noise, but the Explorer 2000 Plus is relatively quiet. Even when the fans run, it’s usually pretty subdued. The app even has a Quiet Charging Mode that keeps the noise below 30 decibels – perfect for nighttime use.
- I’ve always found Jackery’s power stations incredibly user-friendly. The display panel is intuitive, the charging cables are color-coded, and getting everything ready is no big deal. If you only use your power station occasionally, being able to quickly figure out how to use it is a big plus.
Reasons to Avoid
This unit is noticeably heavier than similar models, which might be an issue if you need to move it around a lot.
And, of course, there’s no getting around the fact that this is a pricey piece of kit. Jackery is known for having some of the highest prices per watt-hour of capacity in the market. If budget is a major concern, you might want to look at some other options.
Bluetti AC200MAX – Runner-up
Specifications
- Capacity: 2,048Wh
- Battery technology: LiFePO4
- Life cycles: 3500+
- Max total AC output: 2200W
- Max total input: 1400W (500W AC + 900W solar)
- Charing options: Solar, AC, car, generator, lead battery
Today’s best deals:
Bluetti has stepped up as a solid runner-up, giving the Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus a run for its money.
Feature Highlights
- The AC200MAX boasts a 2,048Wh capacity and 2,200W output. Additional battery packs can expand the capacity up to 8,192Wh. It’s a versatile powerhouse with 16 charging ports and 7 ways to recharge, including a speedy 1400W max dual charging option.
- With a single charge, it generates enough energy to run a projector for 17 hours, a fridge for 28 hours, a CPAP for 40 hours, or charge a laptop 29 times, a drone for 34 times, or a phone for 170 times.
Reasons to Buy
- Like the Explorer 2000 Plus, this power station is a real workhorse. It can even handle a portable heater, which is pretty impressive for a portable unit.
- One thing that stands out is its generosity with output ports. You’ve got wireless charging pads, a special RV outlet, and even a 100W Type-C port that can handle gaming laptops. There are also many 12V connections, which isn’t always true with other power stations.
- Charging-wise, the AC200MAX is no slouch. It comes with a hefty 500W block adapter, and if you’re in a hurry, you can get it fully charged in about two hours using both solar and grid power.
- I found Bluetti’s 350W panels pretty easy to work with. They’re foldable, and you won’t have trouble taking them on the go. Just remember that if you’re in a windy area like me, you might want to figure out how to secure them.
- The whole thing feels solid. All the output sockets are covered with rubber sleeves, and the input sockets have plastic caps. Bluetti put some thought into protecting this unit from the elements.
Reasons to Avoid
- Like the Jackery, this isn’t a budget option. The expandable batteries are sold separately, which can add up. Another thing to consider is the weight. At nearly 62 pounds, it’s not exactly light.
- While Bluetti does have an app, it’s not the most reliable. It only connects via Bluetooth, not Wi-Fi, and I found myself having to reconnect more often than I’d like.
EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra – Best for Whole House Backup
Specifications
- Capacity: 6144Wh
- Battery technology: LiFePO4
- Life cycles: 3000
- Max total AC output: 7200W
- Max total input: 7200W
- Charing options: Solar, AC, Smart Home Panel 2, car adapters, Smart Generator, EV charging stations
Today’s best deals: Amazon
This model brings an impressive array of features that make it a reliable option for keeping your home running when the grid goes down.
Feature Highlights
The base capacity alone is over 6kWh, and in theory, you can max it out to a whopping 90kWh with all the extras. It delivers an enormous 7200W output and can handle up to 5.6kW-16.8kW of solar input. With its automatic switch-over feature, you get a truly uninterrupted backup experience out of the box.
Reasons to Buy
- You can charge it from almost anything: AC power, solar panels, or gas generators. If that’s your style, you can even hook up your existing rooftop solar setup.
- I put this beast through its paces by simulating a power outage, and it didn’t miss a beat. The switch-over happened in just a few seconds, which is pretty quick. But if you enable the Emergency Power Supply (EPS) mode, that time drops to a mere 20 milliseconds. Just keep in mind that EPS mode uses up a bit more battery when idle.
- The capacity of this thing is also no joke. I could run water pumps, air conditioning, and the fridge simultaneously. If you invest in extra batteries, you could keep your home powered for a full day during an outage.
- One thing that surprised me was how quiet the Delta Pro Ultra is. I waited to hear a fan start, but it never happened. It’s completely silent, which is a huge plus if you’re using it indoors.
- The level of control you get with this system is impressive. The EcoFlow app lets you label individual circuits and track their power usage in real time. You can manually switch circuits on and off and even set priorities for when the power goes out.
Reasons to Avoid
- The upfront cost is hefty, and it isn’t a lightweight solution. In fact, this is the most expensive and heaviest model on this list.
- You might need an electrician to set it up to integrate with your home’s electrical system, which can be a bit of a hassle. I had a tough time finding someone familiar with this kind of gear.
EcoFlow Delta Pro – Best High-Capacity
Specifications
- Capacity: 3600Wh
- Battery technology: LiFePO4
- Life cycles: 6500+
- Max total AC output: 3600W (Surge 7200W)
- Max total input: 1800W (AC), 1600W (Solar)
- Charing options: Solar, AC, car adapters
Today’s best deals:
This suitcase-sized battery is a watered-down version of the Ultra variant. It strikes a balance between portability and robust backup power for those unexpected moments when you need it most.
Feature Highlights
- It still has a base capacity of 3.6kWh, which you can expand to a whopping 25kWh. It packs a punch with 3600W of total output and can handle surges up to 7200W.
- Solar enthusiasts will love the 1600W max solar input, while the 1800W AC input ensures quick charging from the grid. Plus, it offers six different charging methods for ultimate flexibility.
Reasons to Buy
- I took it on a camping trip with EcoFlow’s 400W solar panel, and let me tell you, getting it up and running was no sweat. The panel folds flat, so I could easily stash it in the camper’s garage area. On a sunny day, I was getting about 310 to 330 watts of continuous power, translating to roughly 10% charge per hour. Not too shabby.
- I charged everything from my MacBook and GoPro to a portable coffee maker and even an e-bike. Despite all that, the battery never dipped below 55%. When my van’s recreational battery conked out, I plugged the whole van into the Delta Pro. It kept the water pump, lights, and fridge running for several days.
- Durability is another strong point. While the battery itself isn’t waterproof (though you can buy a cover), it held up great during my trip. I dragged it over sand, dirt, and gravel, and those wheels kept rolling. The telescoping handle never gave me any trouble, either.
Reasons to Avoid
- The Delta Pro can get pretty noisy when charging at full tilt. All that power generates a lot of heat, so the fans kick into high gear, which might be annoying in a small space like an RV. You can work around this by tweaking the charging rate in the app, but it’s something to keep in mind.
- The price tag might also make you wince. It’s a significant investment, no doubt about it.
- Lastly, the app can be a bit finicky at times. I noticed that sometimes, when I set the max AC input charging rate, it wouldn’t stick until I closed and reopened the app. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it can be a bit frustrating.
EcoFlow Delta 2 – Best Mid-capacity
Specifications
- Capacity: 1024Wh
- Battery technology: LiFePO4
- Life cycles: 3000
- Max total AC output: 1800W (Surge 2700W)
- Max total input: 1100W (AC), 500W (solar)
- Charing options: Solar, AC, car adapters
Today’s best deals: Amazon
The EcoFlow Delta 2 is a real gem in the 1kWh range. It should be the go-to choice for folks who need a reliable backup for emergencies or a robust power source for their outdoor adventures.
Feature Highlights
It has a base capacity of 1024Wh, which can be expanded up to 3kWh. It delivers a solid 1800W of total output and can handle surges up to 2700W. Despite its compact size, it doesn’t skimp on ports, offering a similar array to its larger counterparts.
Reasons to Buy
- As far as charging is concerned, the Delta 2 is smooth as butter. I took it for a spin with EcoFlow’s 220-watt bifacial panels, and even with the low-angle fall sun, I was pulling in 140 to 150 watts.
- One thing I appreciate is the flexibility in charging options. The solar ports use the common XT60 connector, so you’re not locked into EcoFlow’s panels if you don’t want to be. And if you’re in a hurry, you can plug it into AC and go from zero to hero in about an hour and 20 minutes.
- This little powerhouse is perfect even for small families looking for an emergency backup. It’s got enough power to run the essentials, and with the X-Boost mode, you can push it up to 2,200 watts for those power-hungry appliances. I even ran an electric chainsaw off it without breaking a sweat.
- At 27 pounds, it’s not exactly featherweight. But the handles on both ends are sturdy enough that I could lug it around one-handed when needed. The solar panels are a cinch to take with you, too. I could easily set up a multi-panel system by myself, unzipping them from their fabric cases and laying them out on the driveway.
- I’ve found the app reliable and easy to use. You can connect it to your Wi-Fi for remote monitoring or use Wi-Fi Direct if you’re off-grid.
Reasons to Avoid
- Like most other EcoFlow stations, the Delta 2 can get pretty noisy when working hard. In my experience, it’s more annoying during use than during charging.
- There are also a few features missing that would’ve been nice to have. There’s no wireless charging pad, which isn’t a deal-breaker but would’ve been convenient. A built-in light would’ve been handy for camping, and a larger solar controller would’ve been a plus.
Bluetti AC60 – Best Small-Capacity Generator
Specifications
- Capacity: 403Wh
- Battery technology: LiFePO4
- Life cycles: 3000
- Max total AC output: 600W (1200W surge)
- Max total input: 600W (AC), 200W (solar)
- Charing options: Solar, AC, car, lead-acid battery
Today’s best deals: Amazon
This little engine is not going to power your whole house. But it’s a reliable sidekick for weekend warriors and casual campers that won’t weigh you down.
Feature Highlights
The default capacity is 403Wh, while an additional battery pack would double it. It offers a 600W AC pure sine wave inverter and supports up to 200W solar input. The unit features 2 AC outlets, 3 USB ports (including USB-C), and a 12V DC port. It’s also IP65-rated for water and dust resistance.
Reasons to Buy
- At just 20 lbs, it’s a breeze to carry around. I took it on a weekend camping trip, and it was no hassle to toss it in the car and set it up at the campsite.
- It kept my phone, tablet, and camera batteries topped up during my trip without breaking a sweat. I even ran a small electric cooler off it for a few hours daily.
- One feature I appreciated was the IP65 rating. We had a bit of unexpected rain during our trip, and I didn’t have to panic about the AC60 getting wet. It handled the damp conditions like a champ, which is a big plus for outdoor use.
- I used a 200W solar panel to keep it topped up during the day, and it performed admirably even on a partly cloudy day. If you’re in a hurry, you can charge it from a wall outlet or your car’s 12V port.
- The companion app is also pretty handy. I could monitor the power levels and adjust settings right from my phone. It’s not essential, but it’s a nice quality-of-life feature I used more than I expected.
Reasons to Avoid
- While the charging options are flexible, they’re not the fastest. The maximum 200W solar input means it can take a while to fully charge on a cloudy day. And if you’re using the AC adapter, the 400W input isn’t exactly speedy compared to some competitors.
- And while the price point is reasonable for what you get, it’s not the cheapest option in its class. You’re paying a bit extra for the rugged design and water resistance, which may not be necessary for everyone.
Anker 521 – Budget Choice
Specifications
- Capacity: 256Wh
- Battery technology: LiFePO4
- Life cycles: 3000
- Max total AC output: 200W
- Max total input: 65W
- Charing options: Solar, AC
Today’s best deals: Amazon
It’s not going to win any awards for raw power. But if you’re looking for an affordable yet reliable option for a day out, this little machine punches well above its weight class.
Feature Highlights
The 256Wh capacity might not sound like much, but it’s plenty for its intended use. It sports 2 AC ports, 2 USB-A ports, a USB-C port, and a car outlet, with a total output of 398W.
Reasons to Buy
- The Anker 521 really shines in its portability. It’s about the size of a small car battery and a joy to carry around.
- I took it on a weekend camping trip, and it was so easy to handle that I could pass it from the front to the back of the car with one hand. It sat quietly in the passenger footwell during the drive, not occupying any precious space.
- Despite its compact size, you can squeeze a lot of power out of the Anker 521. On my trip, I could keep two smartphones topped up for the entire journey (both ways) and recharge a couple of camera batteries.
- I even used my MacBook Air for streaming and photo editing, which can be pretty power-hungry. When I got home, the Anker 521 still had about 30% charge left.
- You’ll love how quiet it is. Even when my unit worked hard, it was never noisy or disruptive. This is a big plus if you use it in a tent or a small camper van where every little sound seems amplified.
Reasons to Avoid
- Now, it’s important to understand what the Anker 521 isn’t. You’ll need to look elsewhere if you’re looking to run a portable AC, fridge, or heater. And forget about using it as a home backup – it’s not built for that use.
- Another downside I noticed is that it’s not weatherproof. The design is neat and compact, but it has no IP rating for water or dust resistance. This means you’ll need to be careful if there’s a chance of rain or even heavy dew.
- The charging speed is also a bit slow. It can only handle up to 65W input, whether using solar panels or the included AC adapter. This means it can take a while to fully charge, especially if you rely on solar power on a cloudy day.
9 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Solar Generator
Output
- Think about what you want to power. Are we talking about keeping your phones charged, or are you aiming to run a mini-fridge? Maybe even a whole house?
- Look at the devices you want to power and check their wattage. Add up all these numbers and leave some wiggle room to get your total, which can give you a rough idea of how powerful the generator needs to be.
Capacity
- Measured in Wh, this is how much energy your generator can store. It determines how long your generator can keep your gadgets running.
- For an estimation, take the total watts of your devices (like we did before) and multiply it by how many hours you want to use them. A bigger capacity means more power, but it also means a heavier generator that’ll cost you more and take longer to charge up.
Battery Technology
These days, most top-notch solar generators are packed with lithium iron phosphate batteries or LiFePO4. Sticking with them is your best bet. They last longer, are more reliable and safer, and are energy efficient.
Charging Capability
- Take a good look at the solar panels that go with it. Check how many panels you can hook up at once, as well as their output. More panels and higher wattages will pump more power into your generator, especially on sunny days.
- Don’t forget they can charge in more ways than one. You can plug most of them into a regular wall outlet, which is usually faster than solar charging. Some can even charge from your car socket, which is handy on road trips.
Portability
Solar generators and their panels can be pretty heavy and bulky. Before you buy, think about how often you’ll be moving it around. If you’re planning lots of camping trips, you might want something lighter with built-in wheels and handles.
Ease of Use
Look for a solar generator that’s easy to set up and use. Check out the control panel – is it easy to understand? Can you tell at a glance how much power you’re using and how much is left? Do the mobile apps allow you to closely monitor and control the unit?
Durability & Reliability
- I’ve learned to look for models with robust casings and weather-resistant designs. A good solar generator should be able to handle dust, heat, and the occasional bump without breaking a sweat.
- But it’s not just about the outer shell. All those electrical components inside need to be top-notch, too, as you don’t want your devices flickering on and off all the time.
Customer Service
- Most of the better solar generator brands out there will throw in a warranty that covers you for two to three years. But don’t just take their word for it. Do a bit of digging and check out what other customers are saying.
- Look for reviews that mention how the company handles problems or warranty claims. You’d be surprised how much this can vary from one brand to another.
Cost
- It’s tempting to go for the most powerful option available. But if you never use all that juice, you’re throwing money out the window.
- On the flip side, don’t skimp too much. You don’t want to end up with a generator that can’t handle your basic devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Solar Generators Better Than Gas Backup Generators?
Solar generators have some clear advantages over gas-powered ones. Gas generators are noisy, need fuel storage, and must be used outside due to fumes. The main things to think about with solar energy are battery life, cost, and whether you get enough sun where you live.
Do I Need a Generator if My House Already Has Solar Panels?
- Just having solar panels doesn’t mean you’ll have power during an outage. Most home solar systems are grid-tied, which means they’re connected to the main power grid. When the grid goes down, these systems automatically shut off to prevent sending power back to it.
- If you want backup power, you’ll need to add either a battery storage system or a separate generator to your setup.
How Long Can a Solar Generator Power My House During an Outage?
The runtime of a solar generator really depends on two things: how big the battery is and what you’re powering. If you’re running something big like air conditioning, even a powerful system might only last a few hours. But if you stick to basics like phones and lights, you could keep going for days.
Final Words
The solar industry has really stepped up its game. The best solar generators are more powerful and work better than ever. You should now have a good idea of what to look for. Whether you care most about how much power it can handle or how easy it is to carry, there’s always a good choice there for you.