Whether you're off-grid or on grid, we got a list of best mobile solar powered generators based on sizes, power output, lifespan, reliability and cost.
Do you know which one to get?
They come in all shapes and sizes, and you could spend up to SEVERAL HOURS researching or just get what the professionals are already buying.
Let's check out what we got:
7 Best Solar Powered Generators
Best Solar Generator for RV: EcoFlow Delta 1300 Portable Power Station
Why did we choose this one?
First and foremost, we’ve chosen the EcoFlow Delta 1300 as the absolute best solar-powered generator on the market today. It's lightweight and powerful, making it perfect for RV, mobile home and emergency power backup.
What are users saying about this product?
Lighting Fast AC Charging Speeds - While other solar generators take over 12 hours to charge (this is not an exaggeration), The Delta slices that in half with its rapid charging seeds.
In the real world, this 2 hour AC charge time means that you can plug the Delta into the wall at home and have it fully charged by the time you finish packing for your camping trip.
Fast Emergency Charge - Waste no time! charge up to 80% of its battery in 1 hour for emergency use
Tons of Output Options - Power up to 13 devices simultaneously without bunch of other add ons including USB, AC and DC ports.
Great For Vehicle Use - Charged both with a vehicle or solar panels at extremely efficient rates in a remote area to always power whenever you need it.
Why did we choose this one?
Although the EcoFlow Delta is a great choice, we’d like to recommend the MAX Blueetti EB240 power station to anyone looking for a little bit more battery power. A lot more battery power. The Bluetti EB240 has nearly twice the storage capacity of the best solar-powered generator on this list.
Beyond this, the Bluetti EB240 comes from a reputable manufacturer that consistently debuts reliable products in the solar generator space. With this particular offer from MaxOak, consumers are treated to one of the longest-lasting solar generators on the market today.
What are users saying about this product?
Battery Size - Above all, we choose to include the Bluetti EB240 on this list of the best solar-powered generators due to the enormous size of its battery capacity.
At 2400 watt-hours, the lithium-ion battery included in the EB240 makes it possible to store tons of electricity that will likely last you through long bouts of darkness or cloudy days.
Although this battery size does weigh this unit down, its large capacity makes it perfect for a backup generator in a home for emergency power outages. A huge bonus here is that the EB240 (like all solar-powered generators) can be used safely indoors and outdoors because it does not release harmful fumes.
Lifecycle Rating - Not only does the Bluetti last for a long time during each charge, but it is also rated to last for many years of efficient solar-powered generation and use. The 2400-watt-hour battery is rated to last over 2,500 lifecycles.
Even if you use Bluetti's total battery capacity daily (which requires a lot of electrical use), the system will still work well for over six years.
Comparatively, other solar-powered generators with lifecycles of 500-1000 will need to be replaced sooner than the Bluetti EB240. This long-lasting system gives consumers a ton of return on investment when considering the product’s lifespan.
Brand Recognition - In the world of the best solar-powered generators, the name Bluetti is recognized all around the globe. With the EB240, consumers can purchase a device from a reputable brand.
Here, the EB240 is delivered with the added benefits of a 2-year warranty and excellent customer service. Even if the product is defective (which can happen with all electronics), Bluetti owners can rest assured that the product will be replaced at no cost.
Why did we choose this one?
Homeowners will never have to worry about overpowering this massive solar generator.
The Titan solar generator may be the most powerful and capable solar-powered generator on the market today. The Titan guarantee to provide adequate power compared to a gas generator.
So although the Titan may be too large and expensive for a casual camping trip, this device is powerful enough to serve as a full-home backup for nearly every electrical demand. If you’d like to run anything high-powered with solar energy, look no further than the Titan.
What are users saying about this product?
3000W High-Efficiency Inverter - 3X the performance of Bluetti EB240, making it possible to run refrigerators, power tools, medical devices, and more, all at the same time.
With the Titan, the uncertainty of possibly overloading your solar generator is wholly taken away, as this thing was built to power just about everything. For an entire home backup system (or an off-grid cabin), the Titan’s high-capacity inverter makes it possible to provide enough electricity to meet even the highest wattage demands.
Modular Battery Design - Easily add additional capacity without buying extra accessories to save money. Stack batteries always have electricity for emergencies or high daily energy demands.
Unbeatable Solar Charging Efficiency - 2X to 4X larger than most of the other best solar-powered generators on the market today to generate massive amounts of solar electricity continuously for off-grid cabins or remote emergency power.
Why did we choose this one?
Next, we’ve decided to dial it back to a more portable device in the Inergy Flex 1500 power station. This device (that is new in 2020) has gained a lot of attention in the renewable energy community as one of the best new solar-powered generators on the market today.
In particular, we’ve decided to include the Flex as it delivers many of the premium features of the Titan, but at a fraction of the price. The Flex is a highly versatile solar-powered generator that can be suitable for both home and recreational use.
What are users saying about this product?
Lightweight and Portable - The Inergy Flex weighs just 30 lbs and includes a sturdy handle for easy transport. While some people may think that 30 pounds is heavy, this is actually extremely lightweight when compared to some of the other solar-powered generators that are twice and three times the weight.
With this in mind, the Flex may just be the most powerful portable solar generator, pound for pound, on the market today. If you are planning to buy a solar-powered generator so that it can be taken camping or tailgating, then you will be thankful for the Flex’s extreme mobility.
Stackable Batteries - Just like the Titan, the Inergy Flex features a modular, stackable battery storage system. The Flex comes standard with a 1,069 watt-hour battery (built-in), and a 1,500 watt-hour Flex battery. Beyond this, up to 5 Flex batteries can be stacked for charge and used to obtain a huge amount of overall storage capacity.
Here, the Flex has the freedom to be a lightweight option or a robust massive storage system. With this in mind, INergy Flex owners have more freedom to make their power system fit their electrical demand, rather than vice versa.
Great Input and Output - Beyond these key features, the Inergy Flex is actually one of the best functioning solar-powered generators in terms of input charging speeds and output potential.
With superfast MPPT solar charging and a huge variety of outlets, the Flex is great for continuously generating and using massive amounts of solar power. Plus, the 1500W inverter makes it possible to charge tons of small devices at once.
Why did we choose this one?
Rockpals 500W portable power station does not require a ton of power. With this handy device, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts are able to bring electricity wherever it is needed.
While whole-home backup solar generators may cost you an arm and a leg, this product from Rockpals is both affordable in addition to being extremely functional. We would highly recommend this device for recreational use and as a small bit of power for emergency situations.
What are users saying about this product?
Great Price Point - More than anything, the Rockpals 500W power station is an affordable option for those who need clean, portable energy.
3 Ways to Charge - Although it is smaller than most of the other best solar powered generators on this list, Rockpals does not skimp on premium features. In fact, the three modes of charging on this device make it one of the most versatile systems out there for the price.
Faster Charging Time - Fully charge its capacity in considerably less time than others brands at this size and price point.
Virtually Worry-Free - It lasts period. If you break it, Rockpals delivers customer ease-of-mind no matter how extreme of an adventure the device is used on. Virtually worry-free
Why did we choose this one?
Next, we’ve chosen the Lion Safari ME as another new device that has turned a lot of heads in the solar generator industry. The Safari ME comes from Lion Energy, who is a well-known manufacturer for small portable devices that can be powered by solar.
With the Safari ME, Lion has released their most capable solar-powered generator to date with more power and features than ever before. The product has gained so much popularity that there is a significant wait time to receive it. However, we believe that it is well worth the wait.
What are users saying about this product?
Fast Charging Times - The Lion Safari ME is packed with impressive charge times both with AC and DC electricity. The system accepts up to 600W of solar energy and can fully charge its large battery capacity in as little as an hour and a half of direct sunlight.
Here, the Safari ME makes it possible to quickly charge at home or continuously charge on the go. With this convenience, users have the freedom to deliver reusable electricity quickly and efficiently.
Long Life Cycle - Another great thing about the Lion Safari ME is the battery’s rated life cycle count of 2,500+. Much like the Bluetti EB240, this impressive lifespan guarantees years and years of solar energy generation and use.
Beyond this, the Safari ME also includes a shelf life of 1 year, maintaining the battery capacity without the need to consciously recharge the system. In terms of always having power on hand, the Safari ME is perfect for emergencies at home and on the go.
Why did we choose this one?
Lastly, we feel as if no solar generator list is complete without a mention of one of the Jackery Portable Power Stations. This well-known manufacturer was one of the earliest in the industry and continues to consistently debut fully-capable high powered powerful devices.
With the Explorer 1000, Jackery delivers one of the best possible solar-powered generators for camping, travel, road trips, and more. The system is built to be transported and used anywhere in the world.
What are users saying about this product?
Larger Battery than Ever - Although Jackery products have been popular for nearly a decade, the Explorer is the first of its kind in terms of battery storage capacity. WIth 1000Wh of battery life, the Jackery has plenty of storage space, while staying as portable as can be.
Knowing this, the Jackery Explorer 1000 is capable of keeping the lights on for longer and can even charge a standard cell phone over 100 times.
Convenience - Despite the mid-size battery, Jackery maintains its reputation for convenience with the Explorer 1000. The durable materials, convenient carrying handle, and 22 lb weight all combine to make this device easy to transport and continuously use.
While charging the Explorer 1000 is incredibly easy with solar, AC, and DC power, this device is perfect for anyone looking for truly portable power.
Buyer’s Guide
Now that we’ve outlined the 7 best solar-powered generators on the market today, here is a bit of information to help you decide which one is best for your particular situation.
How does a solar-powered generator work?
To start, it is important to understand that a solar-powered generator works by storing electricity in its battery and making it available to use for a variety of electrical devices. Put simply, a solar powered generator’s electricity is created and used through the following steps:
- Electricity is generated via solar panels, DC, or AC power. While adapters may be required for some solar-powered generators, most devices include a charge controller to enable safe and efficient solar recharging.
- The electricity is stored in the built-in battery
- The electricity is then output via various plugs and ports. If AC power is required, the electricity passes through a built-in inverter.
Solar-powered generators do not emit any harmful fumes during their lifecycle, so they can be used safely both indoors and outdoors.
Build your own DIY generator or buy stock?
For a lot of people, there is a large debate about building a DIY generator kit or buying a stock solar powered generator. Here, there are advantages and disadvantages to both systems.
For all-in-one devices, convenience is king. Today’s solar powered generators have been specifically designed to function efficiently and as easy as possible for electrical consumers. Plus, they are generally designed to be portable.
On the other hand, DIY solar generators are a sum of parts, usually costing less than a specially designed stock solar generator. Although they are typically affixed to the roof of a home or RV, DIY solar generators make it easier to improve the systems through newer parts and maintenance continuously the systems through newer features and maintenance.
Here, we recommend stock solar generators to anyone looking for a convenient way to generate and use solar electricity. Whereas DIY solar generators may save you money, the time and effort to construct a DIY generator are rarely worth it for casual consumers.
First, Determine How Much Power you Need
Once you’ve decided to use a portable solar generator, you must first decide how much power you need. If you are only planning to use solar energy to charge cell phones, laptops, and lights, your power demand will be much less than that of someone looking for a reliable backup generator system to power a whole house.
To calculate how much power you need, add the combined wattages of the devices you hope to power. So long as they are under the generator's inverter capacity rating, you can use these devices simultaneously.
The battery capacity is equally as important when considering the power you need. Obviously, with more ability, you’ll be able to power devices for longer. To actuate this, multiply your devices’ wattage ratings by the amount of time you need to power them to determine the required watt-hours of your capacity.
What Size Generator do you Need?
Here, the “size” of your generator is usually a combination of the battery capacity and inverter rating. A large battery and a small inverter will enable you to power many small devices for long bouts of time. However, a large inverter makes it possible to power high-demand electrical devices.
With this in mind, it is very easy to get carried away in purchasing a large solar generator. After all, it is always better to have extra power rather than a lack of electricity. For weekend warriors and small-demand users, a mid-size solar generator may ensure that you are not paying for features you do not need.
Solar Panel Type
One of the most important things to understand about solar generators is that they rarely come with solar panels included in the system. Instead, it is up to you as the consumer to choose the best kind of solar panels for charging your generator’s battery.
Before you purchase your solar panel, be sure to check out our guide on the different types of solar panels available today. After you determine what fits your demand and budget, purchasing a solar capacity that coincides with your generator’s input rating is critical.
Battery Capacity
As we’ve alluded to throughout this article, battery capacity is one of the most critical determining features in choosing the best solar-powered generator. After all, with generators, the amount of battery capacity your solar generator has directly translates to the amount of time that you can use it to power your devices.
In some of today’s top devices, adding additional battery capacity to an existing solar generator system is possible. Here, the sky’s the limit, although expensive lithium-ion batteries certainly add a lot of cost to large-capacity systems.
Battery Type
While on the subject, the battery type is crucial in built-in batteries and added storage capacity. In today’s world, lithium is the new standard for highly efficient battery charging and discharging, as well as ensuring a long system lifecycle.
Whereas lead-acid batteries can be used for additional solar storage, we highly recommend using a lithium battery to maximize the return on investment in your solar generator system.
Power Inverter Rating
Your solar generator’s power inverter rating determines the electricity used at one time. Inverters typically come with a continuous and surge rating to help determine the exact amount of electrical loads the system can handle.
Suppose you’re looking for a full-home backup system. In that case, it's important to choose a solar generator with a large inverter capacity that can handle high-powered devices such as air conditioning units, power tools, and more.
Check out our guide on 2000-Watt Inverter Chargers for RV
Charge Controllers
A charge controller is generally included in the solar powered generators which allow for efficient solar chagrin and prevent damage to the built-in battery. Today, MPPT charge controllers are generally seen as the premium option.
Although they cost a bit more than traditional charge controllers, MPPT regulators are perfect for maximizing the electrical input from various levels of solar charging.
Click here to check out more solar charge controllers
Weight
Next, weight is one of the most critical things to consider when thinking about how you actually plan to use your solar generator. For some people, weight is everything, as one of the main advantages of a solar powered generator is that it can be transported and used anywhere in the world.
While high power directly relates to large weights, many people prioritize convenience over energy capacity when choosing mid-size solar generators for camping, RVs, and more.
User-Friendly Features
Lastly, all-in-one solar generators are designed to be user friendly, so you will want to become familiar with all of the devices’ features before choosing the best one for your lifestyle.
Depending on the manufacturer, your solar generator may come with anywhere between one and six AC outlets, which is important to consider when thinking about how many devices you hope to power at once. Beyond this, there are also opportunities for different USB types and DC power.
Other than output ports, today’s best solar powered generators may also come with features such as wifi connectivity, detailed display screens, and more.
What to Avoid when Using A Solar Powered Generator
Although today's best solar-powered generators are designed with many user-protective features, electricity is still dangerous if used unwisely. A few things to remember when using a solar-powered generator are to maximize the device’s longevity while ensuring safe operation is consistently maintained.
This includes:
- Powering devices beyond the inverter’s continuous rating
- Leaving the generator in very hot or icy conditions
- And attempting to add solar capacity beyond the charge controller’s input rating
You must fully understand your solar power generator’s specifications before attempting to charge its battery or discharge the electricity for personal use.
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