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10 Best Compact Solar Generators 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station,1070Wh LiFePO4 Battery,1500W AC/100W USB-C Output, 1 Hr Fast Charge, Solar Generator for Camping,Emergency, RV, Off-Grid Living(Solar Panel Optional)

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,295
Battery Capacity
Power Output
Portability

Most important from
1597 reviews

Battery Capacity
The Jackery Explorer 1000 outperformed the DJI Portable Power Station, managing battery life very well and remaining super quiet.
Power Output
Running various appliances, from a full-size fridge to a deep freezer and small microwave, the Explorer 1000 handled the tasks efficiently, proving its versatility.
Portability
The Explorer 1000 is priced competitively and offers better portability, lighter weight, and handy features like an LED lamp during power outages.
Charging Options
The Explorer 1000's charging modes, including fast and quiet modes, work effectively, with fast mode charging the unit well under 2 hours.

The Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station is a strong contender in the compact-solar-generators category, designed to meet a variety of power needs. Its 1,070Wh battery capacity and 1,500W AC output, with a 3,000W surge peak, allow it to handle multiple appliances, making it ideal for camping trips, emergencies, and off-grid living. The battery's LiFePO4 composition ensures durability, with a lifespan of over 10 years and the ability to maintain over 70% capacity after 4,000 charge cycles.

Portability is another highlight, with the unit weighing only 23.8 pounds and featuring a foldable handle for easy transport. However, despite its compact nature, the unit might still be heavy for some users during long journeys or hikes. Its charging options are versatile, including fast charging from 0% to 100% in just one hour (with the emergency mode enabled via the Jackery App), standard charging in 1.7 hours to optimize battery health, and quiet overnight and energy-efficient modes.

The variety of outlets (three AC, two USB-C, one USB-A, and one DC car port) ensure it can cater to several devices simultaneously, making it highly versatile. The only notable downside is that to achieve the fastest charging, users must manually activate the emergency charging function each time via the app, which could be seen as inconvenient. Additionally, while it is compatible with solar panels, these are sold separately, which adds to the overall cost. The Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 stands out for its power, longevity, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for those needing reliable portable power.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,295
Battery Capacity
Power Output
Portability

Most important from
1597 reviews

Battery Capacity
The Jackery Explorer 1000 outperformed the DJI Portable Power Station, managing battery life very well and remaining super quiet.
Power Output
Running various appliances, from a full-size fridge to a deep freezer and small microwave, the Explorer 1000 handled the tasks efficiently, proving its versatility.
Portability
The Explorer 1000 is priced competitively and offers better portability, lighter weight, and handy features like an LED lamp during power outages.
Charging Options
The Explorer 1000's charging modes, including fast and quiet modes, work effectively, with fast mode charging the unit well under 2 hours.
#2

EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2 with 220W Solar Panel, LFP(LiFePO4) Battery, Fast Charging, Portable Power Station for Home Backup Power, Camping & RVs

Rating
9.4
Battery Capacity
Power Output
Solar Panel Compatibility

Most important from
481 reviews

Battery Capacity
The LFP battery's long lifespan and ability to handle extreme temperatures make it a robust choice for various environments.
Power Output
The EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2 is a game changer for van life, making it comfortable with reliable power for various appliances.
Solar Panel Compatibility
The solar panel option adds convenience during power outages, supplementing charging from a generator and providing an eco-friendly solution.
Portability
The unit is not overly heavy for its size, but the short XT60 cable can be a hassle if you need to keep the battery unit inside while charging the panels outside.
Number and Type of Outlets
Having multiple outlets and the ability to handle most household appliances without noise or fumes makes this generator versatile for home backup and outdoor activities.
Charging Options
The fast charging capability is impressive, going from 0 to 80% in just 50 minutes, although the fan can be quite loud during this process.

The EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2 is a solid choice for those in need of a reliable, portable power station for home backup, camping, or RV trips. With a battery capacity that can expand from 1kWh to 3kWh, this generator offers flexibility depending on your needs. The LFP battery is built to last, providing over 3000 cycles, ensuring long-term use.

The generator's power output is impressive, capable of delivering 1800W and peaking at 2700W, allowing it to handle 90% of household appliances without the noise and fumes associated with traditional generators. Additionally, it comes with 15 outlets, offering a variety of connection options for different devices. Charging is convenient, with multiple options including AC, car, and solar panel input.

The included 220W bifacial solar panel can capture up to 25% more energy, making it efficient for off-grid use. However, the unit is quite heavy at 58 pounds, which might affect its portability for some users. While the fast AC charging and the ability to control the generator remotely are excellent features, the generator's size might be a drawback for those looking for something more compact. It serves as a comprehensive solution for those needing a mix of home backup power and portable energy for outdoor activities.

Rating
9.4
Battery Capacity
Power Output
Solar Panel Compatibility

Most important from
481 reviews

Battery Capacity
The LFP battery's long lifespan and ability to handle extreme temperatures make it a robust choice for various environments.
Power Output
The EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2 is a game changer for van life, making it comfortable with reliable power for various appliances.
Solar Panel Compatibility
The solar panel option adds convenience during power outages, supplementing charging from a generator and providing an eco-friendly solution.
Portability
The unit is not overly heavy for its size, but the short XT60 cable can be a hassle if you need to keep the battery unit inside while charging the panels outside.
Number and Type of Outlets
Having multiple outlets and the ability to handle most household appliances without noise or fumes makes this generator versatile for home backup and outdoor activities.
Charging Options
The fast charging capability is impressive, going from 0 to 80% in just 50 minutes, although the fan can be quite loud during this process.
#3

BLUETTI AC180 Solar Generator with 350W Solar Panel (Ships Separately), 1152Wh Portable Power Station w/ 4 1800W (2700W Surge) AC Outlets, LiFePO4 Emergency Power for Camping, Off-grid, Power Outage

Rating
9.1
Power Output
Solar Panel Compatibility
Portability

Most important from
1469 reviews

Power Output
The BLUETTI AC180 is a lifesaver during power outages, capable of running a full-sized fridge, router/modem, and even a gas furnace without issues.
Solar Panel Compatibility
With the ability to charge via solar panels, the AC180 offers sustainable and reliable power without needing frequent wall charges.
Portability
Perfect for camping trips, this generator ran fans all night and kept phones charged while using a compressor cooler for cold drinks and frozen treats.
Charging Options
Fast charging capability is a standout feature, allowing the unit to charge much faster after a simple calibration process.

The BLUETTI AC180 Solar Generator with a 350W solar panel is designed for those who need a reliable and portable power source for camping, off-grid living, or emergency power outages. With a substantial battery capacity of 1152Wh, it can power a wide range of devices using its 11 outlets, including four 1800W (2700W surge) AC outlets. This makes it versatile enough to handle most household appliances and electronic devices.

The unit's LiFePO4 battery offers long-lasting and stable performance, which is ideal for consistent use over time. One of its standout features is its fast charging capability. With the 1440W flash charge, you can fully charge the device in about an hour, which is quite impressive for a portable power station.

The included 350W solar panel also allows you to recharge sustainably using solar energy, though it takes longer (about 3.1-3.6 hours to reach 80% capacity). At 35.3 pounds, the AC180 is relatively heavy, which could be a drawback for those prioritizing ultra-portability. However, its compact dimensions (13.4)

Rating
9.1
Power Output
Solar Panel Compatibility
Portability

Most important from
1469 reviews

Power Output
The BLUETTI AC180 is a lifesaver during power outages, capable of running a full-sized fridge, router/modem, and even a gas furnace without issues.
Solar Panel Compatibility
With the ability to charge via solar panels, the AC180 offers sustainable and reliable power without needing frequent wall charges.
Portability
Perfect for camping trips, this generator ran fans all night and kept phones charged while using a compressor cooler for cold drinks and frozen treats.
Charging Options
Fast charging capability is a standout feature, allowing the unit to charge much faster after a simple calibration process.

Buying Guide for the Best Compact Solar Generators

Choosing the right compact solar generator can be a game-changer for your outdoor adventures, emergency preparedness, or even just reducing your carbon footprint. These devices convert sunlight into electrical energy, providing a portable and renewable power source. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a compact solar generator.
Battery CapacityBattery capacity, measured in watt-hours (Wh), indicates how much energy the generator can store. This is crucial because it determines how long you can power your devices. If you need to run small electronics like phones and cameras, a lower capacity (100-300Wh) might suffice. For larger appliances like laptops or small refrigerators, look for a mid-range capacity (300-600Wh). For extended use or powering multiple devices, a higher capacity (600Wh and above) is ideal. Assess your energy needs based on the devices you plan to use and choose a generator with a suitable battery capacity.
Power OutputPower output, measured in watts (W), tells you how much power the generator can provide at any given moment. This is important because it affects what devices you can run simultaneously. Low power output (up to 200W) is good for small gadgets like phones and LED lights. Medium power output (200-500W) can handle larger devices like laptops and small appliances. High power output (500W and above) is necessary for more demanding equipment like power tools or multiple devices at once. Consider the power requirements of your devices and choose a generator that can meet those needs.
Solar Panel CompatibilitySolar panel compatibility refers to the types and sizes of solar panels that can be used with the generator. This is important because it affects how quickly you can recharge the generator using solar energy. Some generators come with built-in panels, while others require external panels. Check the input specifications to ensure compatibility with the solar panels you plan to use. If you need fast recharging, look for generators that support higher wattage solar panels. Match the generator's input capacity with the output of your solar panels for efficient charging.
PortabilityPortability is a key factor for compact solar generators, especially if you plan to use them for outdoor activities or travel. This includes the weight and size of the generator. Lightweight and compact models (under 10 pounds) are easy to carry and ideal for camping or hiking. Medium-weight models (10-20 pounds) offer a balance between portability and power capacity, suitable for car trips or small events. Heavier models (over 20 pounds) may provide more power but are less convenient to transport. Consider how and where you will use the generator to determine the right level of portability.
Number and Type of OutletsThe number and type of outlets determine how many and what kinds of devices you can connect to the generator. This is important for ensuring compatibility with your electronics. Common outlet types include USB ports for phones and tablets, AC outlets for household appliances, and DC outlets for car accessories. A generator with multiple outlet types and sufficient quantity allows you to power various devices simultaneously. Assess your device needs and choose a generator with the appropriate outlets to accommodate them.
Charging OptionsCharging options refer to the different ways you can recharge the generator, such as solar panels, wall outlets, or car chargers. This is important for flexibility and convenience. Solar charging is eco-friendly and ideal for off-grid use, but it depends on sunlight availability. Wall outlet charging is faster and reliable when you have access to electricity. Car charging is useful during road trips. A generator with multiple charging options provides versatility for different situations. Consider your typical usage scenarios and choose a generator with the charging options that best suit your lifestyle.

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