Wouldn’t it be nice that instead of lighting 20 candles during a blackout, you have a handy generator to rely on at home? And even better – a more environmentally friendly option.
Solar generators are super easy to use, don’t require fossil fuels and are far more affordable than gas-powered or other types of generators. They’re convenient during emergencies, like power loss, or even as a way to keep your gadgets charged during a camping trip.
If you already use solar panels, you may be familiar with how solar energy works. Solar generators work the same way by capturing the sun’s energy using the panels and converting it into electrical power.
Before you jump the gun and splurge on a solar generator, it’s essential first to understand the type of power you need. There are many generators out there; some can power a fridge for up to a whole day, while others are best suited for small appliances.
Today, we’re going to take you through some of the best portable solar-powered generators with various features, to find the best one for you.
Let’s get to it!
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The Best Camping Solar Powered Generator
If you want something for a short camping trip or a road trip, check out the No products found.. This small but mighty solar generator weighs only 4.6 pounds and is ideal for charging small gadgets like phones, tablets, and so on.
It’s ideal if you want something to take with you on an overnight camping trip or even a backyard movie night since it’s pretty great for charging laptops, as well. However, the Phoenix 200 isn’t the best alternative for whole-home emergency power.
The solar generator includes three USB ports, a 110 V AC outlet, a USB-C port, including a carport; plus, it acts as a LED light, which is a handy addition to nighttime adventures.
The Best High Capacity Portable Power Station
The MAXOAK Bluetti Portable Power Station packs a punch without breaking the bank. If you want a handy little backup to bring with you on a fishing trip or something to rely on during a power outage at home, this solar generator won’t let you down.
It comes with a quick charging 1500-watt-hour lithium-ion battery that can power up most home appliances during an emergency. Plus, it comes at an affordable price as well!
The solar generator weighs only 37.9 pounds and includes two AC ports, five USB outlets, an LCD display and a 12-volt DC outlet for larger appliances.
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best Portable Powered Generator
Another portable solar-powered generator to consider is the Jackery Explorer 500. It’s pretty compact, weighing only 13.3 pounds and highly durable – for the adventurers out there!
Its 500-watt inverter provides enough energy to charge multiple gadgets, and it comes with three USB ports and other AC and DC ports. Plus, the rechargeable battery can handle up to 500 charging cycles before it needs to be replaced – which is a lot!
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best Affordable Power Generator
For a solar generator that won’t break the bank, check out the No products found..
This affordable solar-powered generator is ideal for powering small devices like phones, ipads or cameras. Keep in mind that it won’t be able to handle bigger appliances such as a kettle, power drill, microwave or any other device over 300W – so this isn’t the best generator for power outages at home.
However, for overnight camping trips or as a way to have all your essentials charged, it’s pretty great!
Other Solid Portable Solar Powered Generators To Consider:
Goal Zero Yeti 1500X
The Goal Zero Yeti 1500X is a multipurpose solar-powered generator. You can use it for emergency power at home, during outdoor trips and much more. It’s been known to handle a full-sized fridge, as well!
In addition to handling all types of devices, the Goal Zero Yeti generator includes a 2000W AC (3500W Surge) inverter, which is pretty much like having a wall-outlet power supply wherever you go. Plus, it comes with seven port options and a handy app to manage all the settings.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
EcoFlow RIVER Pro
The EcoFlow RIVER Pro is a fast-charging solar powered generator to get all your devices powered up in no time.
EcoFlow already has an impressive product line of portable power stations and decent solar panels. So we weren’t surprised that its solar-powered generator packs punch as well. The EcoFlow RIVER Pro offers 720W worth of power and includes three AC outlets, and it can support devices with up to 1800W!
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Suaoki S370
The Suaoki S370 is the ideal accompaniment for camping trips or long road trips. It’s super lightweight and comes with an impressive battery capacity that supports 500+ charges, with up to 14 outlet ports!
The solar power generator also includes a pure sine wave inverter for more versatile charging options. I also like its intelligent LCD display, which shows the charge and discharge outputs and the battery operating status.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Westinghouse iGen200s
The Westinghouse iGen200s is both an affordable and effective alternative. It’s pretty versatile since the solar generator supports up to four charging options, and it allows you to charge up to nine devices at a time.
Lastly, you can get up to 40 hours out for the power generator, which is ideal for hiking or camping trips.
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Things To Consider Before Buying Portable Solar Powered Generator
- Inverter Rating. The inverter rating is related to the number of watts that the solar-powered generator can put out at any given time. This is a crucial factor to consider, as it will determine how powerful the generator is. A more powerful choice would be a generator with pure sine inverters, which are far more expensive. However, if you simply want a power generator for short, overnight trips and you won’t be using it as much, pure sine inverters aren’t the most cost-effective alternative.
- Price. Affordability is something we always aim for at Trash Backwards. This is why we gathered up the top, effective models that won’t break your bank.
- Battery Storage. The solar-powered generators store energy in their battery which is usually measured in watt-hours (Wh). This essentially shows how long you can use the generator before it runs out of juice.
- Size and Weight. For avid campers and hikers, size is vital. Therefore, a solar-powered generator that’s both lightweight and small is something to consider.
- Expandability. Another important feature is expandability. Since some solar generators come with a predetermined number of solar panels, it’s best to look for a model that allows you to add more panels, as needed.
Have you ever owned a solar-powered generator? What do you think of our list? Let us know in the comments below, and thanks for reading!
Anna Miller is a content manager at TrashBackwards. She’s passionate about living a zero-waste lifestyle. Anna has been writing about eco-friendly tips for years now, and she’s got some great ideas on how you can go plastic-free! She loves sharing her knowledge about eco-lifestyle with others. Her articles are always witty and insightful! Shoot her a message if you’ve got any questions about how you can start going green.
