It's easier and more affordable than ever to capture and channel solar energy for your home. These handy portable batteries can harness the power of the sun to give you free electricity for your campsite, RV, or home. Simply pair them with some of the best portable solar panels, and you have the means to generate your own electricity whenever the sun is out.
I’ll run through my top recommended brands with a few examples, the also-rans, what to avoid, and round things out with tips in an FAQ. Many of the best portable power stations are also great solar generators. If you want something smaller, check out the best power banks, best laptop power banks, or best MagSafe and Qi2 power banks.
Jackery Solar Generators
Rather than pinpoint specific products, I've found that it's smarter to narrow it down by brand. There are a few brands that I’ve tested extensively over the last few years, and most folks will be best served by opting for a solar generator from one of these four manufacturers. For me, that starts with Jackery.
While Jackery’s solar generators aren’t the most affordable or innovative, they have consistently hovered around the top of my testing charts when it comes to delivering the stated capacity. Having tested several solar generators up and down the Jackery range, I recommend them as easy to use, reliable, relatively quiet, and built to last. Jackery’s SolarSaga panels are also among the most efficient I have tested.
The downside is that Jackery employs the proprietary DC8020 barrel port for its panels and generators. While it is possible to find adapters online, there doesn’t seem to be an official Jackery option, and I can’t vouch for what is available. If you don’t plan on matching your generator with solar panels from Jackery, I’d go for another brand.
If you need a decently chunky backup, this Jackery solar generator boasts a 3,600-watt output (7,200-W surge) and a 3,072-watt-hour (Wh) capacity. You can charge it from solar panels at up to 1,000 watts via two proprietary DC8020 charging ports (500 watts apiece). With decent sunlight, you can fully charge it in around 11 hours with a pair of 200-watt panels. The surge works well for power hungry appliances and tools, and you could use it to power a mini fridge, lights, and recharge your small gadgets over a weekend of camping, even if the sun isn’t out. The design is nice and durable with two handles, and there are plenty of ports, but I wouldn’t want to carry it far because it weighs 60 pounds. It works well as a home backup (it can also serve as an uninterrupted power supply with a less than 20 millisecond fallover) or with an RV (it has a TT-30 port).
I recommend opting for the HomePower 3000 bundle with two 200-watt Jackery SolarSaga panels, but only if there’s a good discount on it. At the time of writing, it is $1,900. Jackery also offers various accessories for this solar generator, including a carry bag and a trolley. My test unit is badged as the Jackery Explorer 3000 v2, but it seems to be called the HomePower 3000 in the US.
If you’re going further off-grid and want something that’s both a bit more rugged and easier to carry, I recommend the Jackery Explorer 1500 Ultra. It’s smaller, so the capacity is around half the 3000 above, at 1,536 Wh, but you can charge it at up to 800 watts via two DC8020 ports (400 watts apiece). It’s rated at 1,800 watts (3,600-W surge) for output and has plenty of ports. With an IP65 rating, you don’t need to worry about rain or dust, and it’s shock-proof, so it can survive an accidental drop (up to one meter). The handle is relatively comfy, so it’s easy to carry from the car to your campsite one-handed, along with other stuff (most power stations this size have two handles). It weighs just shy of 40 pounds.
If you don’t need as much power, both the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 ($799) and the Explorer 2000 v2 ($1,499) are worth a look. I tested the smaller model, and it’s ideal for keeping small gadgets charged up on a trip, has a built-in light, and sports a handy pop-up handle.
Bluetti Solar Generators
If you’re looking for innovation, Bluetti’s solar generators deliver. The company makes relatively compact power stations for the capacity, has interesting portable options, and boasts a line designed to cope with cold weather. The build quality is great, and they tend to be feature-packed.
Currently the top pick in my best portable power stations guide, the Elite 300 offers an impressive 3,014 watt-hours in a compact body with built-in handles, though it weighs in at just under 58 pounds, so you won’t want to carry it far. It can deliver 2,400 watts steadily, with 4,800-W surge. It had no issues with a UK kettle and will happily run a fridge or TV for a weekend. The XT60 solar port can take up to 1,200 watts from solar panels, enabling you to fully charge it from dead in just over four hours in perfect conditions. You can also charge it from an outlet and solar at the same time to speed things up. It has every port you’re likely to want, including TT-30, making it ideal for RVs.
You can buy the Bluetti Elite 300 with a pair of 200-W solar panels, which might be worth considering if there’s a discount on the bundle (it’s $1,699 at the time of writing, which is not bad). But Bluetti’s 200-W panels are not the most efficient I’ve tested, and I prefer the larger 350-W and 500-W portable panels.
If you don’t need this much power, the Bluetti Elite 200 V2 ($1,070) and the Bluetti Elite 100 V2 ($619) are also excellent. If you are battling cold temperatures, take a look at the Bluetti Pioneer Na ($899).
If you’re out hiking and just want power for lights and small gadgets, the Bluetti Handsfree 1 Portable Power Backpack is neat. It has a built-in 269 Wh battery with a 200-watt maximum solar input, but you can also snag it bundled with a very portable 60-watt Bluetti panel ($599). The larger Handsfree 2 Portable Power Backpack ($699) has a 512 Wh battery and comes with a 100-W panel.
Anker Solar Generators
Anker has long manufactured many of the best power banks, but it also turns out some of the best solar generators on the market. Although it offers a wide range, Anker is my pick for smaller capacity generators, where it excels with smart, practical designs that look nice and perform well.
This is such a handy little gadget for outdoorsy folks. It has a 288 Wh battery (that can deliver up to 300 watts), and most helpfully, a handy pop-up lantern that makes it ideal for hiking and camping. It can fast-charge all your devices, too, including phones, laptops, headphones, and cameras. The included XT60 port has a maximum solar input of 100 watts and can fully charge in around three or four hours. If you plan on hiking with it, consider the 60-W panel bundle ($299), as it folds down very small.
From power cuts to camping trips, I’ve used this solar generator more than any other and have tested it with a wide variety of different solar panels. It has an XT60 port with a maximum solar input of 600 watts and can charge in under two hours. The design is solid and durable, weighing in just under 30 pounds, and I find it relatively easy to lug around using the two strong handles. It offers a 1,024-watt-hour capacity and can deliver 2,000 watts (3,000-W surge).
If you need more power, Anker offers a wide range, including the expandable Anker Solix F3000 with 400-W solar panel ($2,000).
EcoFlow Solar Generators
Another manufacturer that offers a wide range of solar generators, EcoFlow’s power stations stand out on charging speed and can often be charged more quickly than competitors in the right circumstances. They also tend to feature robust build quality, generous port options, and easy expandability.
This stylish, compact design has the screen and ports at one end. It offers 1,024 watt-hours, can consistently provide 1,800 watts, with a 2,600-W surge mode. I’m highlighting this model because of the two solar ports (XT60i) for faster solar charging up to 1,000 watts (500-W apiece). It can also charge from an outlet in an hour, has lots of ports (6 x AC, 1 x Car, 2 x USB-A, 2 x USB-C, 2 x DC5521), and can pull UPS duty with an impressive 10-millisecond response time. The only drawback I encountered was the fan noise. It wasn't overly loud, but I found that it kicked in very frequently even under a low load.
If you can get by with something smaller, the 768 watt-hour River 2 Pro is even more portable and has an XT60 port, but the maximum input is 220 watts. It’s a nice size, with a big handle along the back, and can put out 800 watts (1,600-W surge). You can also buy it bundled with a 160-W solar panel ($569).
EcoFlow’s Delta range includes a ton of different capacities and designs bundled with various solar panel configurations.
Other Good Solar Generators I’ve Tried
GoalZero Yeti 1500 (2026) for $1,500: This 1,505 watt-hour capacity power station is built to last and can put out 2,000 watts (3,600-W surge). It’s a solid choice for van life because it was designed to survive high-vibration environments and has a high-power 12V port capable of 30-amp output. The maximum solar input is 600 watts.
DJI Power 2000 for $720: Offering 2,048 watt-hours with an output of 3,000 watts (3,600-W surge), this is a good option, but you need DJI’s adapters to hook up solar, and it can get pricey. The fast charger enables a solar input up to 1,800 watts, but it costs $319 and is currently out of stock. I like several of DJI’s smaller solar generators, too, and they can be a go-to choice for drone operators because there’s support for fast charging.
Solar Generators to Avoid
I would avoid solar generators from brands you don’t recognize with few online reviews. I also recommend avoiding devices with proprietary ports that tie you to their solar panels or require special adapters to use with other panels. Brands that I have tested that failed to impress include Vtoman and Dabbsson.
Which Solar Panels Should I Pair?
Solar generators require solar panels to capture the sun’s rays so that they can convert them into usable electricity. I have a separate guide to the best portable solar panels, but the easiest option is to match brands and buy your solar generator bundled with solar panels. I strongly recommend looking out for deals on these bundles, as you can save a lot of money that way. That said, it may make sense to buy a solar generator with a generic XT60 port (more on that below), so you can plug in any panels you acquire in future.
It’s important to check the maximum supported wattage for solar panels on your generator. For example, the Anker Solix C1000 has a maximum of 600 watts, and it is stated right next to the XT60 port. Check the spec sheet carefully before you buy.
What Capacity Do I Need?
The capacity is listed in watt-hours (Wh) or kilowatt-hours (kWh). Consider the devices you want to charge or run and over what period of time, and you can calculate the capacity required. Manufacturers often offer estimates in terms of devices, such 32 charges for your laptop or 2 hours of induction cooktop use, but not all devices draw the same amount of power. You need to calculate how much your gadgets actually use yourself if you want it to be accurate.
What Can You Run on a Solar Generator?
Solar generators can always charge up small gadgets like phones and laptops or be used to power lighting. Most can handle small appliances like mini fridges or TVs, too. If you want to use power tools or an AC unit, (or, in the UK, a kettle) you'll need to draw thousands of watts though, so make sure the generator you're buying can handle that much. Manufacturers state the maximum output, but many solar generators have a surge function that enables them to go higher for a short period. Sometimes, they give it a silly name. For example, Zendure calls this “AmpUp,” and EcoFlow calls it “X-Boost.” Regardless, you want to make sure your solar generator can handle the wattage you need.
What Ports Should I Look for in a Solar Generator?
Solar panels produce direct current (DC), and they typically have MC4 connectors. Most solar generators have an XT60 input port and come with an MC4 to XT60 cable that you can hook up. Other solar charging ports include XT60i, which is interchangeable with XT60, various barrel ports (DC7909, DC5521, DC8020), and Anderson Powerpole ports such as AP30A. There are a few other proprietary port types as well that you may come across. Just make sure the panels you intend to use are compatible with the solar generator and that you have the necessary cables to make the connection.
For charging and running your devices, solar generators have a range of AC outlets, USB-A ports, USB-C ports, car ports, and other port types. It is crucial to check the maximum charging rate and supported charging standards to avoid disappointment. Assume nothing, and check the specs before you buy.
What Other Features Should I Look for in a Solar Generator?
The inverter is crucial. A pure sine wave inverter converts battery power into high-quality household-style electricity smoothly and efficiently.
You should also favor solar generators with Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT), a technology designed to monitor the fluctuating input from solar panels (impacted by shade and changing weather) and maximize how much of it is converted for use.
LiFePO4 is superior battery technology to lithium-ion and means your batteries will last longer and be less prone to overheating.
You may also consider weather resistance. Portable solar panels are generally IP-rated but many solar generators are not. If you intend to leave it outside, uncovered, and there's any risk of rain, you should buy a solar generator with an IP rating.
How Many Years Do Solar Generators Last?
Solar generators last anywhere from three to 10 years, but that can be extended depending on how they are used and maintained. Try not to let them completely discharge too often or leave them empty for extended periods. Usually, the manufacturer will provide an estimate of how many charge cycles you can expect before performance starts to degrade and the capacity drops. Warranties typically range from two to five years, but make sure you retain the guarantee and proof of purchase.
I already mentioned the importance of not leaving your power station empty. If you can avoid fully draining the battery, topping up when it hits 20 percent or below, that will increase its lifespan. You should also avoid leaving it plugged in all the time unless you are using it as an emergency backup (UPS or EPS). Unplug after it is fully charged. Be mindful of the charger and cable you are using to charge up your power station. It’s best to stick to the cables that came in the box. Store your power station in a cool, dry space, avoid extremes of temperature, and try not to expose it to lots of dust. A handful of solar generators are built for extreme temperatures, and a few can handle rain, but always check before you risk exposure.
What About Home Batteries?
A permanently installed home battery is a better solution for some folks than a solar generator. It will need to be professionally wired into your electrical panel, but it allows you to schedule and automate when you pull power from the grid or store power from permanently installed solar panels on your home or plug-in solar if that’s available and legal where you live. If you don’t need it to be portable, you should read my guide on How to Buy a Home Battery. We have also tried the EcoFlow PowerOcean and the Anker Solix E10.
How I Test Solar Generators
I tested every recommendation here myself by using it around the house for at least a week (usually much longer). I plug gadgets into every port and outlet, from a TV and mini-fridge to smartphones and laptops. For more capable solar generators, I plug in power tools, a hair dryer, and a high-wattage UK kettle. I always check that there’s room to plug in the maximum number of devices. I try out any stated surge or power-boost mode under a heavy load too.
All additional ports are tested, from car ports to solar panel ports. I record the time it takes to charge from a wall outlet and from solar panels. Weather permitting, I try to use them in full sun and in partial clouds with different solar panel arrays. I access the fan noise under low, medium, and heavy load, and also when charging from an outlet using the decibel meter on my Apple Watch. If there’s a quiet or nighttime fan mode, I try that out that, too.
I also assess the design to check if the LED display is informative and legible in sunlight. I assess portability by lugging it around my home and garden to use and charge, noting the presence of ergonomic handles, telescopic handles, or wheels. If there are any accessories, I test them. If there’s an app, I connect it and peruse all the functions and features.
If it has EPS or UPS functionality, I connect it to a router and a PC to ensure it switches over within the stated time frame. Finally, I run a set of tests to establish the capacity and note if it significantly deviates from the manufacturer’s claims.
How Did WIRED Select Products to be Reviewed?
I test a range of solar generators from different manufacturers. It’s not possible to try it with every device, so while I typically test flagship releases, I also try to call in power stations with different capacities and at different prices. We are brand agnostic, so I will test power stations from any manufacturer, provided I can get hold of them. But I do lean toward testing more systems from the most popular brands. All the power stations I test are provided by the manufacturers or their PR companies.
Most are loaned for a month or so and then returned. A handful of our recommended picks are kept for longer-term testing. The remainder is donated to charities and other organizations. For example, I recently donated two DJI power stations to UK police drone operators.
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