Best Solar Generators In 2019
BEST CHOICE
Goal Zero Yeti 400
Buy on Amazon
This is the best solar generator on the market due to its high battery capacity, good portability and the LCD screen that shows all the analytics.
Reasons to buy:
High battery capacity.
An LCD screen that shows battery percentage and other analytics.
All in one power on the push of a button.
Quiet operation.
Solar generators are an ideal addition to your emergency bin or to your fun activities (camping etc.) reserve. They are not only efficient and ergonomic but also bring portability and durability in the package.
Having a reliable and easy to use backup generators for emergency situations, even if you live in an area with minimal power outages, is essential. In case of a blackout or an emergency power cut off, you need to have a reserve or backup plan. Initially, these generators were developed for the sole purpose of providing emergency backup but as the technology sophisticated, people started using it as a portable power source for activities like camping, fishing, etc.
Fuel generators also serve the purpose, but they come with a lot of downsides, the main being noisy. Apart from being extremely noisy they require a constant source of fuel and have a huge carbon footprint.
Solar energy helps in building a better tomorrow. It is a green source of energy and is the most accessible way of generating power since solar energy is not taxed either will be.
In this article, we have listed down the best solar generator reviews along with their compatible solar panels followed by a brief guide to help you choose the best solar powered generator for your house.
PreviewProduct nameWeight (lbs)DimensionsCapacityRated PowerSurge PowerAC OutletDC Output PortCar Port OutputUSB Output PortQC3.0 PortPass-through chargingMore information
Goal Zero Yeti 40029 pounds8 x 10.2 x 8 inches396 watt-hours120 W300 W, 600 W110 V12 V12 V2.1A USB, 2NoN/A Check Price
Jackery3.84 pounds7.4 x 4.6 x 6.7 inches167 watt-hours100 W150 W110 V12 V12 VUSB A (2), USB C (1)NoYes Check Price
Aeiusny7.05 pounds11.4 x 4.3 x 5.2 inches288 watt-hours500 W1000 W110 V12 V12 VUSB A (2), USB B (2)NoYes Check Price
Rockpals7.3 pounds6.5 x 3.15 x 6.89 inches280 watt-hours300 W600 W120 V12 V, 24 V12 VUSB A (2), QC3.0 (2)YesYes Check Price
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Goal Zero Yeti 400 - Best overall
Buy on Amazon
KEY FEATURES
395 watt-hours battery capacity.
29 pounds in weight.
300 watts rated power and 600 watts surge power.
3 types of charging systems.
If you are looking for the best portable solar generator that can work in case of an emergency power outage or during your outdoor excursion, then this yeti solar generator is the one for you. This portable solar generator can be charged using a solar outlet or a wall outlet, making things easier for you. For gaining maximum potential from the generator you can easily pair it with zero yeti 400 solar models. The generator is compact and lightweight as well, making things very easy for the user. This impressive solar power generator is the best solar generator among the lot, mainly because of its value for money, high efficiency, quick charging time and support for various gadgets and devices. This is the best solar generator for camping and the best solar generator for home.
All in one power station
This yeti solar generator is convenient and all in one type of power generator that provides the required power on the push of a button. The generator supports a number of devices and gadgets depending on the type of and amount of power they require. The Goal Zero Yeti 400 comes with 396 watt-hour capacity, 300 watts rated power and 600 watts surge power. Once fully charged, it has enough power to charge a cell phone more than 30 times, a laptop more than 5 times and can keep appliances like mini-fridge, television, headlamp, etc. running for an hour. The generator has different types of 12 V DC outputs and allows you to plug in 7 devices at once.
Charging
The Goal Zero Yeti 400 has different charging options available. It can be charged using a wall outlet, via a car charger or using Yeti’s solar panels. Even though the generator sells under the moniker ‘solar generator’ it can be charged using other methods. This feature is specifically added to the generator to make things easier for the user. Using a wall outlet, the generator batteries take 5 hours to charge completely, using a car charger you will need 13 hours to fully charge the batteries and finally, using solar panels, during day time the generator will take 8 hours to charge completely.
What we like:
Can be charged through wall outlets along with solar energy and car charger.
For longer run times, can be connected to Goal Zero Yetis.
Comes with surge protection.
Can charge or run 7 devices at a time.
What we didn't like:
The stand is not adjustable.
https://vimeo.com/342755142
Jackery Portable Power Station
Buy on Amazon
KEY FEATURES
167 watt-hours battery capacity.
97 pounds in weight.
40 x 4.59 x 6.73 inches dimensions.
12V DC output port.
LCD display and flashlight.
This portable solar power generator is the best portable solar generator on the market. The main reason behind this is its portability. It is the lightest and smallest solar power generator on the market and weighs a mere 3.97 pounds. Despite its small size and lightweight, it comes with a large 167 watt-hour capacity. The generator can charge smartphones, laptops, cameras, etc. and can run appliances like televisions, fans, etc. for more than a couple hours. It has pass-through charging support, hence, it can charge its own batteries and give power to the connected devices at the same time. The jackery portable power station is a true camping generator. The manufacturers have maximized portability and comfort with their efficient manufacturing.
Charging
This power station is one of the lightest and smallest power stations on the market manufactured for maximum portability and comfort. The power station can be charged three ways, it can either be plugged into the wall socket for charging. This way it can be kept charged at all time. It can be charged via a car charger or last but not the least, it can be charged using a solar panel. This camping generator does not come with its own set of solar panels rather those need to be purchased separately. While charging with solar panels, the power station takes 8 t 10 hours to charge completely. The timings depend on your location and the weather in the area.
LCD display
The power generator comes with a built-in LED flashlight which can be used as a light source in case of emergency or if you are out in the woods for camping. The LED flashlight can be activated by long pressing the turn on button. This activates the SOS which is especially helpful when you are outdoors. Another interesting feature installed in this power generator is the LCD display. The display clearly shows all analytics regarding the battery. The percentage of power left, the number of devices being charged and the power distribution. During charging, the device also lets you know how long it will take to fully charge the power generator. It also has a backlight that makes reading in the sun easier.
What we like:
It has quick recharging.
Comes with a built-in flash and LCD display.
Is equipped with a safety management system against short-circuiting.
Has an auto-shut off option.
What we didn't like:
It is not weather and waterproof.
Aeiusny Portable Generator
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KEY FEATURES
288 watt-hours capacity.
500W of rated power
1000W of surge power.
Pure sine wave technology.
12 months warranty.
If you want a two in one kind of solar power generator that works as the best solar generator for camping and best solar generator for home, then this Aeiusny portable generator is the one for you. It is portable but also works ideally when used only for home. It is ideal for longer camping trips since it has a high battery capacity of 288 watt-hours.
It is constructed to be used by a lot of appliances at one time which is why it is equipped with 3 AC outlets, 4 DC outlets, and 4 USB ports. The best part is, along with being large with the higher capacity it is easy to carry and weighs less than 8 pounds. It can be charged easily via a solar panel that is sold separately, via an AC outlet in your house or even using a car charger that is included in the package.
Pure sine wave technology
Most of the generators on the marker, solar or fueled, usually don’t produce a pure sine wave rather they produce a rough replication of a sine wave which can actually damage the appliances connected to the AC output. Aeiusny has achieved a breakthrough in technology and uses pure sine wave technology. This technology enabled the generator to produce a pure sine wave rather than a poor replication. This way, the electricity produced is clean, stable and safe, making sure all your appliances are protected and they don’t malfunction or cause short-circuiting. The generator also has advanced overcharge, over-discharge, short-circuit protection control unit.
Emergency supply
Since the portable generator can be charged using three different options, it is always available as an emergency source of supply. The large battery supply ensures you have optimal charging at all time whether you are at home or outdoors. It can provide 55 plus charges for a smartphone, can run a 12V LED light for more than 96 hours and 6 hours of running for the 50W fan. This makes it the best solar generator for all kinds of outdoor excursion trips. It can also be used to charge flashlights and other similar devices. In case it runs out of power, you can use your vehicle to charge it or if you are in a sunny area you can use the compatible solar panels to charge it. It will take 8 to 10 hours to fully charge the power generator depending on the weather and location of the area you are in.
What we like:
It has a large battery capacity.
Despite having a large battery capacity, it is lightweight.
Easy and quick recharging.
12 months of product warranty.
What we didn't like:
With 60W power, it takes more time to charge.
ROCKPALS 300W Portable Generator
Buy on Amazon
KEY FEATURES
300 watts rated power.
600 watts surge power.
Pure sine wave outlet.
3 pounds in weight.
This high-quality plug and play type or portable generator will be your best friend anytime and anywhere you need power. Whether you have an emergency power outbreak at home or if you are going camping this power generator will be the one thing you need most. With a high battery capacity of 280 watt-hours, it is one of the most versatile and best rated solar generators on the market. It provides power at the push of a button, you don’t need any extension cords or gasoline. It comes with USB ports, AC outlets and DC outlets for running all kinds of appliances. It can be used with CPAP for emergencies and is the best camping generator due to its lightweight and high battery capacity.
Versatile:
The power generator comes with a number of different outlets for different types of uses. It has one 120V AC outlets with 300W rated power and 600W surge power for laptops, Fans, monitor, Air mattress, TV, etc. Moreover, it comes with four 12V DC outlets. These outlets are for devices that consume less than 96W such as car vacuum, CPAP, etc. Apart from this, we have four 5V ports and one 24V port. Both these ports are DC ports and can be used for various gadgets. This is what makes the power generator so versatile and easy to use.
Pure sine wave:
As mentioned earlier, most power generators use the modified version of sine waves which can slowly damage your appliances. This portable generator provides a pure and clean sine wave from the AC outlet. This technology not only keeps your appliances safe but also prevents them from heating up and producing unwanted noise. This gas-free source of AC outlet can be used for anything from fax machines to microwaved to fans.
What we like:
It is pretty versatile and durable.
Has a pure sine wave rather than sine wave modification.
Comes with 18 months warranty.
Portable and easy to use.
What we didn't like:
Customer service is not very keen.
https://vimeo.com/349849981
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Types of solar panels to consider:
There are three different kinds of solar panels that are being largely used in the residential sector.
Monocrystalline panels: these are the most expensive type of solar panels since they have the highest efficiency rate. They are made of pure silicon which is why they are pretty durable and sturdy as well.
Polycrystalline Panels: these are the more affordable type of solar panels. Any panel that is blue in color is a polycrystalline panel. These are made with melted fragments of silicon which is why they are slightly less efficient.
Thin Film Panels: these are lightweight panels usually used due to their portability. They can be folded and transported easily however, their efficiency is usually less than 20 percent.
What to look for when buying a solar generator?
If you want to make the best investment, there are a number of things you need to consider beforehand. The above-mentioned solar generator reviews were formulated keeping these factors in mind
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