Introduction
Solar generators are the way to go! With all the risks that climate change poses on our planet, many people are now embracing renewable energy sources. Fossils fuels emit carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, causing planet-warming effects, which is not good for our mother planet.
Unlike fuel-based generators, solar generators are quiet, smell-free, and environmentally friendly; they do not produce deadly carbon dioxide gas. Solar generators have no engines; this means no noise or smelly exhaust fumes.
Solar generators use solar panels to collect solar energy from the sun. The energy is then stored in inbuilt batteries. An inverter is used to convert the power into AC before it’s used to power equipment.
You can power various gadgets ranging from small electrical appliances such as laptops, tablets, smartphones to power-thirsty equipment like drills and portable fridges. And the good part is, they are portable, and you can easily carry them around. Check out our list of the top 5 solar-powered generators.
- MAXOAK EB150 Camping Solar Generator
Specification
- Brand: MAXOAK
- Weight: 37.9 pounds
- Voltage: 110 V
- Wattage: 1000 watts
- Dimensions: 14.6” x 6.5” x 14.4”
Features
MAXOAK EB150 camping solar generator is a perfect choice for those looking to meet power demands for power-thirsty devices such as hairdryers, drills, and blenders. It features a 15000Wh lithium power battery with a long lifetime, high discharge rate, and better heat dissipation.
The MAXOAK EB150 comes with a maximum power point tracker controller responsible for converting higher voltage DC output down to lower voltage needed to charge the lithium battery.
The generator is designed with multiple outputs for various devices; you can power up to 8 devices simultaneously. On the front side, there is an LCD with a backlight for easy reading. The screen displays battery status, remaining power, and other variables.
With MAXOAK EB150, you get to enjoy three rechargeable ways; this makes it very convenient to recharge your generator without a hassle. You can charge the generator via the AC adapter (comes with a 200W charger and takes up to 8 hours to fully charge), solar panels (not included in the package), generator (and takes up to 8 hours to charge)
Pros
- Suitable for power-thirsty devices
- Lots of charging options
- Stylish design
Cons
- It’s quite heavy
Bestseller (lists)
BLUETTI Portable Power Station EB150, 1500Wh Lithium Battery Backup w/ 2 1000W AC Outlets (1200W Surge), Solar Generator for Road Trip, Tailgating, Emergency (Solar Panel Not Included) Patio, Lawn & Garden
- ... Read More
2. AIMTOM Power Station
Specification
- Brand: ATOM
- Weight: ?3.63 pounds
- Voltage: 110 watts
- Wattage: 150 watts
- Dimensions: 7.48” x 6.69” x 3.54”
Features
The ATOM power station is built for those who love camping and spending time off-grid in dusty, rugged terrain. It is built with a heavy plastic shell to survive harsh conditions. In addition, the shell is dustproof, which will give you an easy time cleaning it.
The ATOM power station allows you to go places where there is no power and still remain connected. Thanks to its quiet operation, it is ideal for powering devices at a campsite or tailgating party. It is also lightweight, and carrying it around will be no hassle.
The generator is designed to be recharged by solar panels, a wall socket (adapter is included), or a car (a car charger is included). The Battery Management System prevents over-temperature, overvoltage, and overcurrent, which prolongs the battery's life in addition to protecting your devices.
Pros
- Runs quietly
- Ultra-lightweight
- Durable construction
Cons
- It takes 8-10 hours to fully recharge
Bestseller (lists)
AIMTOM 42000mAh 155Wh Power Station, Emergency Backup Power Supply with Flashlights (Solar Panel Optional), for Camping, Home, Road, Travel, Outdoor (110V/ 100W AC Outlet, 3X 12V DC, 3X USB Output) Patio, Lawn & Garden
- ... Read More
3. Westinghouse iGen600s Solar Generator
Specification
- Brand: Westinghouse
-
- Weight: 11.3 Pounds
- Voltage: 12V
- Wattage: 600 watts
- Dimensions: 11.8” x 6.5” x 11.5”
Features
Westinghouse iGen600s Solar Generator was thoughtfully designed to provide the user best experience. It is aesthetically pleasing, owning to this is the blue color finishing making it center focus (whether out partying off the grid or in the backyard), making it a great addition to your household equipment. This unit is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
The generator is rated at 600 watts with a peak wattage of 1200 watts. Westinghouse iGen600s can be recharged using four methods; wall socket, solar panel, generator, and car charger. Easily recharge your generator at your own convenience.
With multiple output sockets, you will be able to power up all your devices ranging from laptops, tablets, smartphones, cameras to drones. Some of the output ports include; a 120V AC outlet, 5V DC USB port, two 5V DC quick charger USB 3.0 ports, five 5V DC USB type C ports, 12V car outlet, and 12V 6mm DC port.
A feature you will love about the Westinghouse iGen600s generator is the three modes of lighting that can be helpful when in the dark. Pure sine wave technology ensures the cleanest form of energy is produced to protect your devices from damage caused by harmful voltage spikes.
Pros
- Features a tri-mode flashlight
- Generate clean energy using pure sine wave technology
- Four charging options
Cons
- Solar panels are not included in the package.
Bestseller (lists)
Westinghouse iGen600s Portable Power Station and Outdoor Generator 1200 Peak 600 Rated Watts, 592Wh Lithium-ion Battery (Solar Panel Not Included) Patio, Lawn & Garden
- ... Read More
4. EF ECO FLOW DELTA Portable Power Station
Specification
- Brand: EF ECO FLOW
- Weight:
- Voltage:
- Wattage: 3300 watts
- Dimensions: 15.7” x 8.3” x 10.6”
Features
If you are on the market looking for a generator with the fastest recharge rate, EF ECO FLOW DELTA Portable Power Station is your perfect choice. The generator has the fastest recharge on the market and takes only 1 hour to charge from 0-80%.
Another high selling point of the ECO FLOW DELTA power station is the nice and compact design finished with eye-catching. No gas, no noise, and no maintenance, all these make the ECO FLOW DELTA a perfect generator for indoor use.
With an output of 1800 watts, the ECO FLOW DELTA meets the standards of any wall outlet, and in case of any power outbreak, you will always feel at home. With the lightweight design, you will never be dragged behind by the heavyweight. In addition, the
The unit is designed with an aluminum chassis that protects the battery pack inside to ensure maximum durability. At the bottom, rubber paddings are fitted to minimize vibrations and skidding when on a smooth surface or being transported.
Pros
- Fast recharge rate
- Lightweight
- Built to last long
Cons
- The recharge rate may slow down after a heavy discharge (it’s a safety feature to prevent overheating)
Bestseller (lists)
EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA, UPS Power Supply 1260Wh Battery Pack with 6 1800W (3300W Surge) AC Outlets, Solar Battery Generator for Outdoor Camping RV Patio, Lawn & Garden
- 【Multiple Charging Outputs Provide More Options】DELTA features 6* AC outlet (100V-120V 1800W 3300W Peak), 2*USB-C port, 2* USB-A ports, 2*USB-A fast charge and 1* standard DC 13.6V port , power your smartphone, laptop, camera, drones, in-car appliances, CPAP machine, refrigerator, blender and more at anytime without worry.
- 【Triple Rechargeable Modes Efficient Solar Generator】EcoFlow power station is equipped with a lithium battery pack, it can be charged by the 10-65V solar pa... Read More
5. BLUETTI Portable Solar Generator
Specification
- Brand: BLUETTI
- Weight: 60.6 Pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: 2000 watts
- Dimensions: 16.5” x 11” x 15.2”
Features
BLUETTI Portable Solar Generator is a great and efficient solar powdered unit that will meet all your power demands for home parties, tailgating, camping, and emergency power supply.
BLUETTI Portable Solar Generator features a wider range of outlets that allows you to charge up to 17 devices at a go. Some of the outlet options include; one 12V/25A RV port, one 12V/10A carport, one PD 60W USB type C, four USB type A, two 12V/3A outlets, and two 15W wireless pads.
You never have to worry about the BLUETTI Portable Solar Generator overheating; it's designed with an intelligent temperature-activated fan that turns on at 45 degrees. Save up to 50% of wasted energy with the 'BLUETTI ECO' mode.
The selling point of this BLUETTI solar generator is the smart one-touch LCD that displays real-time variables of the generator such as voltage, current, charging status etc.
Pros
- Charge up to 17 devices simultaneously
- Intelligent temperature-activated fan
- Designed for power-thirsty appliances
Cons
- Some customers have complained of a faulty charging system.
Bestseller (lists)
BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200P, 2000Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup w/ 6 2000W AC Outlets (4800W Peak), Solar Generator for Outdoor Camping, RV Travel, Home Use (Solar Panel Not Included) Patio, Lawn & Garden
- ... Read More
Here is Why Solar Generators Are Preferred over Fuel Generators
Welcome to the club! You are probably wondering why people are now shifting towards solar generators. Here are some reasons why,
Free
Unlike fuel-based generators, solar generators are free! It uses free solar energy from the sun, which is converted by the solar panel's electrical energy.
Clean
Solar-powered generators don't have any engines, which means they do not produce any smelly toxic exhaust fumes that can be deadly to human health and cause a warming effect on the planet.
Quiet operation
The absence of engines in solar-powered generators also presents another advantage: silent operation. This makes solar generators suitable for indoor use.
Minimal maintenance
With a solar-powered generator, you get to enjoy less Maintainance costs. They have no moving parts and don’t use liquid fuel, reducing the likelihood of paying maintenance fees.
Some Limitation of Solar Powered Generators includes:
Solar-powered generators aren't without a flaw. Some of the drawbacks you need to keep in mind if you are getting one include;
Slow recharge
With fuel-based generators, when the fuel is low, all you need to do is refill the tank, and you are set to go; that is not the case with solar generators. The latter needs time to recharge after the batteries are fully used. The recharge time depends on the brand's technology and the method of recharging. Some generators may take little time to recharge, while others may take much time.
Limited power supply
The energy from the sun is inconsistent and varies from place to place. With a solar generator, the solar cells are only useful when there is sunlight. If your batteries run out at night, you will be forced to use alternative charging methods.
High upfront cost
The initial cost of purchasing solar generators and their accessories can be a turnoff. You will pay a higher upfront cost but minimal maintenance and running fees.
What to Look For When Purchasing Solar Generators
There are plenty of solar generators on the market with different performance capabilities. With each manufacturer claiming that their products are the best and most reliable, choosing the right generator to meet your needs can be a challenging endeavor.
Our team of passionate engineers has done in-depth research on the best solar generators. Some of the factors they considered while doing their research are listed below. The below-discussed factors will help you make a smart purchase and settle on a solar generator that meets your needs.
Solar panels
Some solar-powered generators come with solar panels included in the package, while others do not. You need to weigh your options and determine which will be economical for you; buying a generator that comes with solar panels or going for one that you will buy the solar panels separately.
There are three different types of solar panels available; polycrystalline, monocrystalline, and thin-film solar panels, and each will suit you best depending on the circumstance.
Monocrystalline solar panels are made from silicon crystallized into single crystals. They are the most expensive solar cells because their manufacturing process is complex. If you are looking for efficiency, this is your ideal solar cell. They offer an efficiency of up to 20%.
Polycrystalline solar cells are much easier to manufacture than Monocrystalline cells, making them affordable. They consist of several crystals of silicon in a single PV cell. This type of solar cell has an efficiency of 15% and tends to have low heat tolerance.
Thin-film solar cell have a higher temperature coefficient than the silicon-based cell. If you plan to operate in hot areas, this is your right solar cell, as they don't lose their performance when they get too hot (they are less affected by temperature). In addition, they are the cheapest solar budget, perfect for those on budget.
Weight
The weight of a solar generator determines its portability. You need to go after a unit that you can easily carry around without weighing you down. Some generators feature handles and wheels to make them easy to move around.
Recharge time
Recharge time is the amount of time a fully discharged solar generator takes to fully charge. It's essential to factor in the recharge time as it will determine how long you will stay without power off the grid while camping. Are you okay risking a two-hour silence with no music while off-the-grid camping?
I don't think so; you should therefore go for solar generators with less recharge time. It's also smart to decide on the most suitable charging mechanism for your generator. They are four charging methods; wall socket, solar panels, car charger, and portable generator. If you plan to use your generator off the grid, solar panels as a recharge method will be convenient.
Power requirement
Knowing how much power you need is the first step of landing your dream solar generator. What do you need a solar generator for? How much power will do you need? These are some of the questions that will help you choose the right generator to meet your power needs.
Small appliances like smartphones, tablets, and laptops do not require a lot of power; a generator with minimum power output will be sufficient. On the other hand, power-thirsty devices like portable fridges and drills require more power; consequently, you need to get a power generator that can match the power requirement.
Conclusion
The market for solar generators is gradually growing, and this has been pushed forward by the concerns over climate change caused by exhaust fumes produced by fuels-based generators. Solar-powered generators are a good source of power backup in a power outage. If you are looking for a renewable and clean power source, solar generators are your ideal choice. Our list contains the 5 best generators on the market. Don't hesitate to order your unit today from our list!
