Are you going camping or looking for power backups in case of a blackout? The best option is to use solar-powered generators. Unlike their gas-powered competitors, they’re silent, odourless, and don’t contribute to climate change.
Solar generators generate electricity by converting sunlight using solar panels (usually supplied separately) into electrical power and storing it in a battery for later use.
Be careful to evaluate how much electricity you’ll need to run appliances, tools, and any other tech in case of a power outage or anything you’ll need in the wilderness before investing in a solar-powered generator.
Once you’ve determined how much power you’ll need, seek a generator with the appropriate weight, size, and outlets.
Read on for our expert reviews of the best solar generators available. Check the latest prices to ensure you get a great deal!
Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 7 Best Solar Generators
- 2.1 1. EcoFlow Delta 1800W / 1300wH Solar Generator
- 2.2 2. Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium with WiFi + Boulder 100 Briefcase Solar Kit
- 2.3 3. Point Zero Energy Titan 1000 Solar Briefcase Generator Kit
- 2.4 4. Nature’s Generator Gold System 1800W
- 2.5 5. GOLABS R300 Portable Power Station
- 2.6 6. BLUETTI PowerOak AC200P Solar Generator
- 2.7 7. ROCKPALS RP300W Portable Solar Generator
- 3 Solar Generator Buying Guide
Our Top Picks
Image | Name | |
|---|---|---|
| EcoFlow Delta 1800W / 1300wH Solar Generator | |
| Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium with WiFi + Boulder 100 Briefcase Solar Kit | |
| Point Zero Energy Titan 1000 Solar Briefcase Generator Kit | |
| Nature’s Generator Gold System 1800W | |
| GOLABS R300 Portable Power Station | |
| BLUETTI PowerOak AC200P Solar Generator | |
| ROCKPALS RP300W Portable Solar Generator |
7 Best Solar Generators
1. EcoFlow Delta 1800W / 1300wH Solar Generator
This Ecoflow delta 1300Wh solar generator review focuses on a solar generator that charges quickly. It takes 4 hours to recharge completely. The DC input accepts voltages ranging from 10 to 65 volts. You would find this helpful device for camping, RVing, hunting, and emergencies.
The complete solar panel is weatherproof so that it can resist any weather. As a result, the solar generator may be used in various outdoor settings. Furthermore, the panel may be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes without causing harm.
Features
Efficient Energy Conversion
This generator has a conversion efficiency of up to 22%, allowing it to capture the sun’s power. This level of conversion efficiency ensures that your gadgets are always charged.
It can power up to 13 gadgets at the same time.
Fast Recharge
Solar panels, a car charging plug, or an AC outlet may all be used to recharge it.
In one hour, the recharging rate goes from 0% to 80%. It takes 1.6 hours to recharge fully.
The EcoFlow proprietary X-Stream Technology recharges the power station at 10 times the speed of most other portable power stations using a regular AC connection. This trait denotes a rapid rate of recharging.
The EFDELTA MPPT controller ensures a quick recharging rate. It also has a broad range of compatibility with a solar panel with an open-circuit voltage of 10-65V/ 10A maximum.
This power station can be fully recharged in 4 hours using a solar panel.
Battery Shelf Life
While battery capacity is vital, the battery’s shelf life should also be considered. Simply said, shelf life refers to the period a battery may be charged before losing its charge.
While all batteries eventually lose their charge, certain batteries maintain their charge longer than others.
With a shelf life of more than a year, consumers could store the device untouched for a year and still rely on it to have a fully charged battery in the event of a power outage or disaster.
Pros:
- Power inverter that is both efficient and powerful and has good surge protection
- Deep cycle battery with a high capacity of 1,260Wh and a long shelf life
- Compact proportions, long-lasting carrying handles, and a 30.9-pound total weight
- A 2-year manufacturer’s guarantee is included, which is significantly longer than the industry norm of one year
- DC output connection to trickle charge a vehicle battery or run any DC-powered equipment
- All of the necessary charging cords are included and a safe carrying case
- A price that is reasonable
- Multiple Deltas may be linked together to make a more extensive battery bank using the chaining feature
Cons:
- The internal fan is rather noisy because it is a little yet powerful machine
- The AC wall-style outputs are positioned so that you can’t plug in six 3-pronged appliances at once
2. Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium with WiFi + Boulder 100 Briefcase Solar Kit
You shouldn’t let a low-battery notification put a stop to your expedition. You’ll never have to stop chasing the next horizon with the Yeti 1400 solar power generator.
This multi-purpose power station is large enough to run small to medium appliances yet compact enough to fit in your car and take with you wherever you go.
The Yeti 1400 is ideal for extended camping vacations, backyard parties, or to get on-the-go electricity in an emergency since it packs more power into a smaller and lighter shell than its predecessor.
This solar generator can charge your phone, tablet, laptop, POV camera, DSLR camera, headlamp, and more!
Features
Alternative to a Gas Generator for On-Demand Power
The Goal Zero Yeti 1400 emits no pollutants and produces no noise, making it an easy-to-use, plug-and-play solution for powering all of your essential devices and appliances at the touch of a button.
It’s safe to keep inside your house or apartment for operating lights or appliances during a power outage, but it’s also tough enough to take with you on your next outdoor job.
Outputs that are unrivalled in the industry
With ten different ports to choose from, a Yeti can keep all of your essential devices fueled up no matter where you are.
It has higher surge capabilities for better compatibility with power-hungry devices, as well as the newest USB-C Power Delivery technology, which can charge more significant USB devices like laptops.
Power Station with WiFi
Simply connect Yeti to your WiFi router and control it remotely using the new Goal Zero Yeti App now that WiFi connection is available.
You can use your iPhone to turn ports on and off, monitor battery levels, and even update the software on the Yeti. The Goal Zero Yeti App is now available on Apple’s App Store and Google Playstore.
Lithium Battery with Extremely Low Risk
Every Yeti is built with reliable lithium cells regulated by a cutting-edge battery management system that avoids overcharging, overcurrent, and short-circuiting. The battery pack is protected from the elements by a water-tight casing.
Pros:
- Yeti 1400 offers comparable continuous operating power to a 2000 watt inverter generator while weighing less than many other models in its class
- The use of pass-through technology signifies that you should never run out of power if the load is monitored together with the charging rate
- Another benefit is the 3000 watts of surge power
- When not in use, the Yeti 1400’s battery can keep a charge for a long time and only has to be charged once every few months
Cons:
- The Yeti Series isn’t made up of low-cost generators
- Less AC outlets on the Yeti 1400
3. Point Zero Energy Titan 1000 Solar Briefcase Generator Kit
The Titan Solar Generator is a giant solar generator that can be charged in less than four hours using solar power, an AC outlet, a DC outlet, or a 24V battery expansion.
This allows it many charging choices and the ability to charge it using many different inputs at the same time, which speeds up the process.
Features
Inverter With A Large Capacity
The Titan’s pure sine wave inverter has a capacity of 3000 watts continuous and 6000 watts surge, which is double that of comparable equipment.
Capacity Of Expandable Battery
Thanks to its straightforward technology, Titan’s 2000 watt-hour battery can be increased by simply “stacking” new battery packs. There are no wires to connect.
Large Capacity Of Solar Energy
The Titan can handle up to 2000 watts of solar power because of its state-of-the-art MPPT charge controller. Solar energy is restricted to 500 watts in comparable products on the market.
Components With High Efficiency
Because only high-efficiency components are used, less energy is lost in the system’s operation, resulting in higher power output and extended run periods.
Pros:
- The Titan solar generator’s integrated lithium battery packs are versatile
- Titan delivers tremendous and long-lasting power
- Availability of various input and output options
- Titan includes a vehicle adaptor, an AC wall charger, and an MC4 adapter with every order
Cons:
- Titan’s pricing point is sure to elicit strong reactions from some buyers. While the price tag is high, it is relatively affordable considering the unit’s lifetime
4. Nature’s Generator Gold System 1800W
Our Nature’s Generator gold system and the Nature’s Generator wind turbine are combined in the Nature’s Generator gold system. Even if you’ve never done it before, the Nature’s Generator gold system is a terrific introduction kit that lets you start producing and storing your electricity.
You’ll have an extra means of recharging your Nature’s Generator with the installation of the Nature’s Generator wind turbine. You will be able to stay powered and charged at all times of the year if you have both the Nature’s Generator power panel and the Nature’s Generator wind turbine at your disposal.
Features
Options for Power Output
Of course, the 1800-watt pure sine wave inverter makes up the majority of the weight in Nature’s Generator. With this much power, you can utilise all three AC outlets without worrying about overloading the system.
The DC outlet, which bypasses the inverter and enables longer electronic runtimes, is also good.
Aside from that, with only one type of USB connector, the Nature Generator’s output interface is quite limited. Before purchasing a generator, double-check the USB type for your phones, tablets, cameras, and other gadgets. A range of USB solutions may work well for many folks.
Options for Solar and Wind Charging
The Nature’s Generator also has wind and sun charging capabilities, a great feature. While specific high-powered generators can handle wind and sun, most green generators in Nature’s price range cannot.
Wind-powered charging may be the only method to keep this gadget alive off the grid if you intend on doing a lot of travelling or reside in a region with minimal sunlight. Although charging speeds are sometimes sluggish and inconsistent, wind power may keep your batteries going all night.
Expandable Batteries
Finally, one of the main selling aspects of Nature’s Generator is its chainable battery capacity. This system makes it simple to charge several battery banks for backup power for emergencies.
With this in mind, you may increase the device’s 720 watt-hour capacity within budgetary constraints. You may also link together many Nature’s Generators.
Pros:
- It’s easily movable
- Nature generator has dual renewable energy output harnessing both solar and wind power
- Nature can create a power chain
- It has multiple power outputs
Cons:
- The generating set weighs 90 pounds, two to three times the weight of comparable generators on the market
- The generator takes around 10-15 hours to get charged
5. GOLABS R300 Portable Power Station
The GOLABS R300 Portable Power Station can keep your electronics charged during power outages.
The R300 is distinguished from its competitors by using lithium iron phosphate batteries, which have several advantages over other types of batteries, including thermal and chemical stability, which increases battery safety.
Features
LIFEPO4 Battery Power Supply
Thermal and chemical stability, which increases battery safety, is a significant benefit of LiFePO4 batteries over conventional lithium-ion batteries.
The Lithium Iron Phosphate battery provides GOLABS portable power station with 2000 cycles and a battery life of more than 10 years.
Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet Of 300W
This GOLABS portable power generator will protect sensitive items, such as CPAP machines and laptop computers, by creating clean and reliable energy with a pure sine wave.
More electrical equipment can be started with a continuous 300W AC outlet to reach 500W peak power.
Clean Power
The GOLABS power supply operates quietly, requires no fuel or gasoline, and protects you and your gadgets with over-voltage, over-current, and over-temperature protection. You can continue to be escorted by the Battery Management System (BMS). You may utilise it without fear.
Pros:
- GOLABS has long battery health
- It has a 30-day money-back guarantee if something goes wrong
- It has a 1-year warranty
- It has got multiple and versatile AC and DC outputs
- It does not contribute to noise pollution
Cons:
- It might not be able to power your 12v fridge or charge your smartwatch
6. BLUETTI PowerOak AC200P Solar Generator
The Bluetti AC200P is a portable solar power station featuring several characteristics that promise to outperform the competition.
This 2000-watt solar generator is a well-balanced powerhouse with several advantages and a few disadvantages.
It has five charging modes, 17 output ports, and an excellent touchscreen with many settings and options to select from.
The latest-generation, high-capacity lithium iron phosphate battery is substantially more environmentally friendly than regular lithium-polymer and lithium-ion batteries, promising roughly 3500 charge cycles.
Features
Long-Lasting
The Bluetti AC200P is built of durable flame-retardant ABS plastic and metal that appears to be able to withstand a lot of abuse.
The diagonal pinstripes on the front demonstrate that Bluetti is serious about its work, and the two fit-in handles ensure a sturdy grasp.
Five Ways of Charging
An AC and DC input port on the power station’s left side allows you to charge the AC200P in five different ways:
- AC outlet on the wall
- Lead-acid battery
- Solar power
- Car
- Gas generator
The AC connector supports a maximum charging capacity of 500W, which implies the AC200P will take around 4 hours to completely charge.
You’ll also utilise the 12-30V DC port to connect the station to solar panels.
This is where things get interesting: you can fully charge this power station in less than three hours with a maximum solar charging load of 700W.
This is an hour quicker than using the AC grid voltage. A resounding victory for sustainable energy.
Pros:
- High-capacity batteries and high-power output
- Technology for advanced batteries
- 3500 cycles of charging
- Solar charging at 700 watts
- Charging without wires
- Design that is both tough and elegant
Cons:
- The LCD screen is difficult to view in bright sunlight
- Weighing 60.6 pounds
7. ROCKPALS RP300W Portable Solar Generator
The Rockpals RP300W is a low-cost portable battery generator. If you’ve ever used a Rockpals product, you know how dependable and trustworthy they are.
Rockpals has a long history of producing powerful solar generators, and the RP300W portable battery generator is no exception.
The power of this solar generator is one of the main advantages of acquiring it. When we compare the pricing range of this product to that of other solar generators, Rockpals comes out on top.
At a low price, the Rockpals RP300W battery pack provides 300 watts of continuous power and 600 watts of peak power.
Features
Ultra-portable and ultra-lightweight
The Rockpals RP300W portable generator is one of the industry’s most ultra-portable power plants. You can effortlessly carry it everywhere because of its handy, light, and compact design.
Solar Battery Station with Good Power
The RP300W battery generator is a capable model in its class. It features a 280Wh capacity and a high-quality lithium-ion battery inside.
It can power a 32-inch TV for four hours, a CPAP machine for four hours, and a refrigerator for five hours, as described above. It can provide clean energy thanks to the inbuilt pure sine wave inverter.
A Wide Range of Powerful Options
Although it only has one AC outlet, the RP300W battery generator comes with several charging choices. For your AC gadgets, this is a normal 120V output unit.
There are four normal 12V units and a 24V outlet when it comes to the DC ports. It also features four USB connections and two Quick Charge 3.0 fast-charging technology.
Pros:
- Excellent manufacturing quality and ease of usage
- Affordably priced and with a huge capacity for energy storage
- Multiple devices can be charged at the same time using different output ports
- Pure sine wave electricity
Cons:
- The generator has been known to shut down under low load situations, according to some users
Solar Generator Buying Guide
The products indicated above have excellent reviews and meet all of the requirements for solar generators.
However, having some understanding of contemporary solar generators is beneficial. After all, you may have different preferences.
This section answers all of your questions about solar generators. Hopefully, with the aid of this handy guide, you can make the finest purchasing choices.
Key Takeaways
- Solar generators are environmentally friendly and quiet power sources that can be used indoors, making them a preferable choice over noisy and polluting gas generators.
- Solar generators work by storing and converting solar energy into electricity for various devices, and some can also be charged through wall outlets or car connectors.
- While solar generators may not power an entire home during an outage, they can sustain critical appliances like refrigerators and medical devices, making them valuable for disaster preparedness. Before buying a solar generator, consider factors like safety certification, understanding relevant terms, and selecting the right battery.
What is a Solar Generator?
Any energy-producing system that is powered by the sun is referred to as a solar generator. The phrase solar generator, often known as a portable power station, most frequently refers to a portable, easy-to-use kit for harnessing solar energy wherever it is required.
Choosing a solar generator over a typical gas generator offers significant advantages to the end-user. Gas generators are noisy, emit toxic fumes, and use costly resources to operate. Solar generators are very quiet and rely on environmentally friendly, renewable energy.
This permits solar generators to be used indoors, saving customers time and money by eliminating the need to travel to the gas station every time they need to charge their batteries.
How Does a Solar Generator Work?
Solar generators are very basic, user-friendly appliances, despite the complexity of the technology underlying them. In a nutshell, a solar generator can store and transform energy into electricity to power devices that require it.
Solar generators, of course, may create electricity using solar energy. A solar generator, on the other hand, does not always need to be connected to solar panels in order to store energy. To charge their batteries, certain solar generators may be hooked into a wall outlet or a car charging connector.
Is it possible for a solar generator to power my entire home?
In general, if you lose electricity, a rechargeable solar generator won’t be able to power your entire house. That said, depending on its power usage, even a tiny generator can be utilised to power critical gadgets or appliances for days at a time.
For example, you may keep your refrigerator running and/or ensure that medical devices like CPAP machines get used.
Factors To Consider Before Buying Solar Generator
Verify the generator’s safety certification
Solar generators, like any other item, must be thoroughly inspected for safety. It is very important that you ensure that the solar generator is certified safe by any independent testing laboratory prior to purchasing it and subsequently putting it to use.
Knowledge of the necessary terms
Before you go out and buy a solar generator, you should familiarise yourself with all of the relevant terms so that you know what to look for in your inverter.
Watts, watt-hours, amps, amp-hours, and solar inverter efficiency of operation are a few words you should be familiar with.
Choosing the right battery
The battery is the most important factor in determining how long your solar inverter will survive. As a result, it’s critical to pick the right battery for your solar inverter. The maximum number of hours a battery can power all of the devices is described as the product of the power need, in watts, and backup hours, in hours, divided by the voltage, in volts.
Our Expertise in Solar Products
At Solar Panels Network, our pride lies in the extensive expertise of our seasoned professionals and renewable energy experts. With the rising demand for eco-friendly and energy-efficient solutions, we are dedicated to guiding you through the options. By merging our vast knowledge with practical, real-world testing, we deliver trustworthy reviews.
Why Trust Our Reviews?
- Industry Expertise: Our experts have a deep-seated understanding of the solar industry, including solar generators. We stay updated with technological advancements to ensure our reviews reflect cutting-edge options.
- Hands-On Testing: True to our commitment to authenticity, each solar generator on our list has been tested for performance and durability. We’ve assessed these generators in various settings to simulate how they’ll perform in your off-grid adventures, during power outages, or for outdoor events.
- Transparency: We approach our reviews with a clear and open methodology. Every recommendation is presented with an honest assessment of its features and functionality. We aim to provide you with all the necessary information, free from any external influence so that you can make the best choice.
- Experience: Our team’s collective experience is invaluable in discerning the quality of solar generators. We’ve seen trends come and go and understand what features offer genuine long-term value. This experience is integral to our review process, providing you with recommendations that are not just based on technical specifications but also real usability and satisfaction.
As we look towards a more sustainable future, we are dedicated to helping you find the best solar generators for 2024. Our selection is designed to offer you a combination of innovation, reliability, and efficiency, perfect for providing backup power or embracing renewable energy sources. With our expert advice, you can harness the power of the sun with confidence.
Wrapping Up
For all road journeys and outdoor camping, solar generators are an essential backup power source. However, because of their popularity, there are many possibilities on the market, and choosing one from all of these distinct types may be a difficult undertaking.
As a result, we’ve included a list of the top solar generators in this post, along with their specifications and characteristics.
Disaster preparedness begins with establishing a reliable power source, and solar generators are great if you want that power source to be clean and sustainable. Take some time to go through the alternatives and choose the generator that best suits your needs.
About the Author
Solar Panels Network stands at the forefront of solar energy solutions, driven by a team of seasoned solar engineers and energy consultants. With over decades of experience in delivering high-quality solar installations and maintenance, we are committed to promoting sustainable energy through customer-centric, tailored solutions. Our articles reflect this commitment, crafted collaboratively by experts to provide accurate, up-to-date insights into solar technology, ensuring our readers are well-informed and empowered in their solar energy decisions.