Outdoor Power Generation Comparison

Should you buy a portable power station or solar generator?

Portable power stations or solar generators are becoming increasingly popular as more people seek alternative power sources for outdoor activities, emergency preparedness, and off-grid living. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to find the best one that suits your needs.

How to choose a portable power station for camping?

Setting one up inside a home or workshop means close quarters, and loud models could literally require hearing protection. A portable power station for camping should also be quiet, or else it may disturb the neighbors. Typically, electric and solar power stations make for the quietest generators available.

What is the difference between a generator and a portable power station?

A portable power station is essentially a big rechargeable battery that you carry around. Deplete it, and it's useless until you can recharge. A generator, by definition, is a device that actually converts some type of energy to usable electricity in whatever circuitry you have it connected to.

What are the best portable power stations?

To help you decide, I tested the efficiency, in a variety of scenarios, of the best portable power stations from Jackery, Oupes, EcoFlow, Anker, Goal Zero, Grecell, Bluetti, Dakota Lithium, Lion Energy, Vtoman, and Oupes. ↓ Jump to the Rest of the Field ↓ What to Know Before Purchasing a Portable Power Station

How do I choose a solar powered generator?

Some products pair with a compatible solar panel to charge using the sun, making them a home solar generator of sorts. If camping is the primary intended use for a portable power station, then look for a portable solar-powered generator that can charge during the day in the sun. Come nighttime, the generator will be ready to provide hours of power.

How long does a portable power station last?

A portable power station’s lifespan depends on the type of battery inside. Most new portable power stations, including all the models we recommend here, feature LiFePO4 battery technology, which lasts far longer than older lithium-ion technology. How much more? LiFePo4 power stations will last for more than 3,000 charge cycles, or about 10 years.