The Best Portable Solar-Powered Generators

 Though solar-powered generators are always quieter than gas options, they still typically have fans inside to keep them cool. The fans can be disruptive for some who rely on their generators to power devices like CPAP machines while they sleep. The AMPROAD Epic 1000 eliminates that problem by nixing the fan and using a heat-dissipating aluminum body instead.  With a 1000Wh capacity and 1000w input, the Epic 1000 can handle most appliance needs. You’ll be able to plug in a mini-fridge, coffee maker, or chest freezer easily. This generator also includes an LED flashlight built-in; it’s ideal for emergencies.  That said, if you’re looking to power any sort of off-grid living, this generator might not be enough. You’ll probably want more watt-hours, closer to 1500 or even 2000. Pros silent running ideal for powering nighttime devices LED flashlight built-in Affordable  Cons Good for emergencies, but not enough for off-grid living 

 Goal Zero is a well-known brand in the solar generator world for good reasons. All of their power stations are U.S.-made, then tested in rugged environments worldwide, including in the Arctic. So, if you want a solar-powered generator that’s dependable in any emergency, the Yeti 1500x is it. With a 2000w A.C. inverter, there’s no limit to what you can power using this battery. If you can plug it into the wall of your home, you can run it with the Yeti. That includes fridges, medical devices, and, of course, your computer and phone.  It provides 1500 Wh, which should be enough for most situations, and recharging is fast. Four hours of solar recharging using 400w panels should do the trick.  The Yeti 1500x works with several different Goal Zero solar panels, depending on how often you want the battery to recharge. With the right solar panel set-up, plenty of sunshine, and this battery, you could take most of your power needs off-grid. Or, you can opt for portable panels ...

 With 1534 Wh, the Jackery Explorer 1500 promises to run a refrigerator for up to 15 hours, a T.V. for up to 21 hours, and a microwave for up to 68 minutes. That’s more than enough to get through most outages unscathed, especially when you consider how efficient the Jackery Explorer 1500 is.  The Jackery Explorer 1500 is one of the most efficient solar-powered generators for home use, thanks to its upgraded MPPT controller. You’ll reach an 80% charge in just four hours of solar exposure. That’s not bad, given that it only allows for 400w input.  Jackery recommends using this generator with their SolarSaga 100w solar panels, up to four at a time. Though you’ll have to purchase them separately, they’re affordable and foldable, making them exceptionally convenient. If you happen to own other solar panels, though, you’ll have to purchase adaptors to work with Jackery products. Jackery uses proprietary connections, which can be a little frustrating for those who already hav...

 If you’re attempting off-grid living or need an extra-large capacity during an emergency for any reason, the ECOFLOW Delta Max is an excellent option. This battery has a large capacity of 2016 Wh, and you can link it with up to two more batteries if desired. That puts your total watt-hours at a whopping 6048!  The ECOFLOW also boasts a rapid charge feature that will get you an 80% charge in about ninety minutes. Of course, the rapid charge feature works via an outlet or your car, not through solar panels, which charge much slower.  That said, even with pure solar charging, this generator links to 800w panels and can fully recharge in three to six hours, which isn’t bad at all. Plus, it comes with an app to control and monitor everything remotely. You can turn off ports, view output, and more without ever leaving your couch. The Delta Max isn’t exactly affordable, especially if you plan to connect two or three of them at once, and you’ll have to purchase the panels sep...

 Read more... With 2000Wh, the AC200P by Bluetti is a solar-powered beast. This generator can easily power even larger appliances, like your refrigerator, window A/C, and space heaters, making it ideal for home emergency use.  It allows for 700w of solar power input and features an MPPT controller, so it also recharges fast. It takes about three and a half hours to recharge this generator. If needed, you can also recharge it using your car. It will take longer, close to eleven hours, but at least you have the option!  The AC200P also has six A.C. outlets for easy use, a cigarette lighter, and several USB outlets. Plus, it features a backlit touch screen that delivers all the device information you need, such as voltage, temperature, and charging level.   You’ll have to purchase solar panels separately, and this unit is fairly heavy at just over 60 lbs. Still, for home use, it’s one of the best generator options. Pros Huge capacity  Fast recharging Severa...