Solar generators are devices that capture the sun’s energy and store it in a battery for later use. They can provide clean, quiet, and reliable power for your home, camping, or emergency needs. Solar generators can run various appliances and devices, depending on their capacity and output. In this article, we will review some of the best solar generators on the market based on their features, performance, and customer feedback.

Jackery Solar Generator

Compact yet powerful, the Jackery Solar Generator sets a new standard for on-the-go energy solutions. Weighing in at just 3.8 pounds—equivalent to a standard bag of apples—this portable power station from the renowned Explorer family delivers unparalleled convenience for your short road trips, remote work, or outdoor escapades.

Jackery has been an industry leader since 2012 and specializes in crafting green power solutions for adventurers. The Explorer 160, featured in Forbes, Digital Trends, and Tom’s Guide, showcases our commitment to innovation.

Fuel your devices with the Explorer 160’s versatile charging options. Boasting 1 AC outlet, 1 USB-C port, 2 USB-A ports, and 1 standard DC 12V port, it powers up to 5 devices simultaneously. Ideal for charging phones, tablets, laptops, GoPro, and other essentials, it ensures you stay connected wherever you wander.

Recharge in multiple ways—Jackery SolarSaga 60 (sold separately) takes just 4.5 hours for a full charge. Alternatively, use the wall outlet or car charging, both of which complete the recharge in 5 hours. The built-in LED flashlight, featuring an SOS mode, adds a layer of security to your off-grid adventures. Don’t miss out on the freedom to explore; grab your Jackery Solar Generator and embark on your next journey with confidence.

Pros:

• Ultra-compact design, weighing only 3.8 pounds
• Versatile charging options for up to 5 devices simultaneously
• AC outlet flexibility for short road trips, remote work, and outdoor activities
• Industry-leading brand with recognition from Forbes, Digital Trends, and Tom’s Guide
• Quick recharge in 4.5 hours with Jackery SolarSaga 60 (sold separately)
• Built-in LED flashlight with SOS mode for added convenience and safety

Cons:

• No pass-through charging capability
• The solar panel (SolarSaga 60) is sold separately
• Limited to 100 watts output
• AC outlet restricted to 110 volts

Related: Best Home Generator

Goal Zero Yeti 400 Solar Generator

Power your adventures with the Goal Zero Yeti 400 Solar Generator, a compact powerhouse designed for the modern explorer. With a robust 428Wh lithium battery, this portable power station can simultaneously charge up to 7 devices, from smartphones to laptops, ensuring you stay connected wherever your journey takes you.

Equipped with a continuous 300W pure-sine wave inverter and a 1200W surge capacity, the Yeti 400 provides reliable and clean energy for your gadgets and small appliances. The 2.4A USB ports and 120W 12V ports offer versatile charging options for all your electronic essentials.

Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or facing a power outage, the Yeti 400 has you covered. It’s not just a charger; it’s a lifeline for CPAPs, lights, and more. Recharge effortlessly from AC or embrace the sun’s power by pairing it with a solar panel (sold separately).

Engineered by power station experts with a US-based customer service center, this silver marvel weighs just 16 pounds, making it easily portable for your on-the-go lifestyle. Invest in reliable, off-grid energy with the Goal Zero Yeti 400—your ticket to power, wherever the path leads.

Pros:

• Portable and lightweight at 16 pounds
• Powerful 428Wh lithium battery
• Supports simultaneous charging of up to seven devices
• Pure-sine wave inverter for clean energy
• Versatile charging options with USB and 12V ports
• Solar recharge capability (solar panel sold separately)
• Designed by power station experts with US-based customer service

Cons:

• Solar panels are not included
• Pricier compared to basic power stations

BLUETTI AC200MAX Solar Generator

Meet the BLUETTI AC200MAX Solar Generator—a powerful beast that’s your go-to energy hub on the go or off the grid. Boasting an incredible 2048Wh LFP cell capacity and a robust 2200W inverter, this portable power station guarantees a safe and reliable power source for all your devices.

Designed for versatility, the AC200MAX supports expandable capacity, accommodating 2 BLUETTI B300 (3072Wh) or 2 B230 (2048Wh) batteries, delivering an astonishing 8192Wh or 6144Wh, respectively. Fueling up is a breeze with super-fast dual charging capabilities, supporting up to 900W solar and 500W AC input. In just under 5 hours, recharge it using 3 PV200 solar panels for maximum efficiency.

With 16 ports catering to all your needs—AC, USB, Car, 100W PD, NEMA TT-30, and 12V/30A DC—this power station is a dream for RV dwellers and DIY enthusiasts. The added convenience of wireless chargers enhances its practicality.

Get ready to unleash the power with the BLUETTI AC200MAX, complete with a 500W AC adapter, solar/car charging cable, XT90-aviation cable, and backed by a 48-month warranty. Experience the freedom of energy, wherever your adventures take you.

Pros:

• Powerful 2048W LFP cells and 2200W inverter
• Expandable capacity for increased energy needs
• Super-fast dual charging with solar and AC input
• Versatile with 16 ports, including wireless chargers
• Ideal for camping, RV dwellers, and DIY enthusiasts
• Portable and easy to carry
• 48-month warranty for peace of mind

Cons:

• A weight of 28.1 kilograms may be heavy for some users
• Higher wattage may be more than necessary for basic power needs
• Initial cost may be a barrier for budget-conscious consumers

EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator

Experience power on the go with the EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator, a compact dynamo delivering 1.6 hours of X-Stream fast charging, achieving an impressive 80% charge in under an hour. This portable generator transforms into a solar powerhouse, offering up to 300W of solar input with MPPT optimization for eco-friendly charging.

Unleash the potential of 1400W, empowering up to 12 devices simultaneously. Whether you’re camping or need reliable backup power, the Pint-Sized Powerhouse, Ecoflow DELTA mini, packs 882 W into a mere 23.6-pound design. Versatile and robust, it effortlessly powers outdoor adventures and travel, while its X-Boost capability handles 1800W devices with ease.

Safety is paramount, and the built-in battery management system ensures peak performance even in challenging conditions. Confidence soars as your Ecoflow portable power station navigates fluctuations in voltage, current, and temperature with finesse.

Stay connected and in control with the EcoFlow app, monitoring solar input and device power consumption. Whether you’re off the grid or managing your home remotely, this generator is smarter, providing real-time insights and control from anywhere.

Equip yourself with 882 Watt-hours of portable power, a solar-powered marvel weighing 23.6 pounds in sleek black and grey. With included accessories like DC5521 to DC5525 cable, AC charging cable, and car charging cable, embrace a new era of on-the-go energy independence.

Pros:

• 1.6 hours of X-Stream Fast Charging
• Up to 300W solar input with MPPT optimization
• It powers up to 12 devices simultaneously (1400W)
• Compact and lightweight design (23.6 Pounds)
• Battery management system for optimal performance
• EcoFlow app for real-time monitoring and control

Cons:

• Limited 882-watt-hour capacity
• No mention of waterproof or rugged features
• May not support high-powered devices for extended periods

Power up your outdoor adventures with the ITEHIL Solar Generator, a high-performance marvel designed for resilience and versatility. Boasting a peak power of 500Wh, this portable powerhouse can reach 700W, making it an essential companion for emergency charging of high-power equipment like drones and portable refrigerators during outdoor escapades.

Crafted with durability in mind, the ITEHIL generator features LiFePO4 batteries and an aviation-grade aluminum alloy body. This combination not only enhances explosion resistance but also ensures longevity, surpassing plastic-clad alternatives. The smart chip technology provides a safety net with multiple protections, including over-temperature, over-discharge, over-current, overload, short-circuit, and over-voltage safeguards.

Portable and convenient, this generator is designed with a handle for easy transport, making it an ideal solution for power outages caused by unforeseen circumstances like snowstorms. It doubles as an emergency light, illuminating the dark night and providing a reliable power source. The high-definition LED display offers real-time insights into power levels, current output, and input power, while the illuminating LED light on the side serves various purposes, from strong illumination to SOS rescue and warning functions.

Lightweight at 25.1 pounds, the ITEHIL Solar Generator ensures you stay connected and powered wherever your adventures take you. Charge up with confidence, and embrace the freedom of portable, reliable energy.

Pros:

• High-performance with 500Wh peak power (700W).
• Durable LiFePO4 batteries and an aviation-grade aluminum alloy body.
• Smart chip technology for multiple safety protections.
• Portable design with a convenient handle for easy transport.
• Emergency lights function during power outages.
• High-definition LED display for real-time monitoring.
• Illuminating LED lights with various functions.

Cons:

• Limited to battery power, not suitable for extended use without recharging.
• A weight of 25.1 pounds may be relatively heavy for some users.
• Gasoline fuel types are not supported, limiting fuel options.
• Output wattage is capped at 500 watts.
• May be considered relatively expensive compared to other options.

Best Solar Generator Buying Guide

A solar generator is a portable power station that can be recharged with solar energy. It typically consists of solar panels that charge a built-in battery, which can then provide electricity on demand via AC outlets and USB ports. Solar generators provide clean, quiet, renewable energy for a variety of applications, making them an eco-friendly alternative to gas generators.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Solar Generator

Power Output

One of the most important factors is the power output, or capacity, of the solar generator, measured in watts. Consider what you want to power and for how long. Solar generators range from less than 100 watts for basic charging to over 2000 watts for running larger appliances. Choose a solar generator that can handle your needed wattage with a comfortable margin.

Battery Capacity

The battery capacity determines how long the solar generator can supply electricity without sun exposure. Lithium-ion batteries are preferred over lead-acid batteries as they are lighter, longer-lasting, and discharge slowly. Battery capacity is measured in watt-hours (Wh). A higher capacity equals a longer runtime. Choose a capacity that fits your intended usage time.

Portability

If you want to take your solar generator on camping trips or in your vehicle, look for a lightweight, compact model with a built-in handle and wheels. The smaller power stations tend to be the most portable. Keep in mind that a larger capacity usually means more weight.

Durability

Ensure the solar generator has a sturdy, weatherproof construction, especially if it is being used outdoors. The solar panels, casing, and ports should be waterproof and shockproof. Units with rubber bumpers can better withstand impacts. Check warranties too for manufacturer defects.

Recharging Options

All solar generators can recharge via solar panels in sunny conditions. For faster charging or indoor/nighttime use, look for additional recharging options like AC and DC power. Models with a car charger allow recharging from your vehicle. Having multiple recharging options makes the unit more versatile.

Price

Solar generators vary greatly in price from under $200 to over $1000 based on their capacity, features, and quality. Set a budget and look for the best value within it. Higher-priced models typically have more power, better construction, and extra features. Calculate the long-term savings from using solar over gas.

Conclusion

Choosing the right solar generator involves balancing power capabilities, battery capacity, portability, durability, and price to suit your specific needs and budget. Determine your intended uses, necessary runtime, and frequency of use. Read solar generator reviews and do thorough comparisons before deciding. Investing in a quality solar generator can provide renewable energy anywhere for years to come.

Frequently Asked Question

What is a solar generator, and how does it differ from traditional generators?

A solar generator is a portable power station that harnesses energy from the sun using solar panels. Unlike traditional generators that rely on fuel, solar generators produce electricity through photovoltaic technology, making them eco-friendly and silent during operation.

What are the key advantages of using a solar generator?

Solar generators offer clean and renewable energy, making them environmentally friendly. They are quiet in operation, require minimal maintenance, and provide a reliable power source for various electronic devices, making them ideal for camping, emergencies, or off-grid living.

How do I determine the appropriate size or capacity of a solar generator for my needs?

Assess your power requirements by listing the devices you plan to run. Consider the wattage of each device and the total runtime needed. Choose a solar generator with a capacity that can comfortably meet your power needs, factoring in potential expansions or increased usage.

Can a solar generator be used indoors, and what are its limitations?

Solar generators can be used indoors, but they need access to sunlight for recharging. If used indoors, they should be charged outdoors or near a window where sunlight can be harnessed. Additionally, the capacity of a solar generator may limit the number and type of devices it can power simultaneously.

What features should I consider when selecting the best solar generator for my requirements?

Consider factors such as battery capacity, the number and type of output ports, solar panel compatibility, weight, and additional features like a built-in inverter, USB ports, or LED indicators. It’s essential to choose a solar generator that aligns with your specific power needs and intended use.