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10 Best Solar Backup Generators 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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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
9.9
Chosen by1,131
Battery Capacity
Power Output
Portability

Most important from
2732 reviews

Battery Capacity
With a substantial 1,070Wh capacity and versatile LED lamp, it proves useful during power outages.
Power Output
The inverter provides steady AC output, maintaining a consistent 120V even under load.
Portability
The Jackery is lighter and easier to carry around, thanks to its hinged handle, compared to heavier models.
Charging Options
Charging is efficient, with the default fast mode fully charging the unit in under 2 hours, and the quiet mode significantly reducing noise.

The Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station is a reliable and versatile option for those needing a solar backup generator for camping, emergencies, RV trips, or off-grid living. It offers a substantial 1,070Wh battery capacity and a powerful 1,500W AC output, which can handle various appliances, including fridges and electric pots. With its lightweight design (23.8 lbs) and foldable handle, it is highly portable and easy to carry around.

The one-hour fast charging feature is particularly impressive, ensuring you can get back to using your devices quickly, although it requires activation through the Jackery App for optimal battery health. The LFP battery promises a long lifespan, capable of maintaining over 70% capacity after 4,000 charge cycles, translating to more than 10 years of use. Multiple charging options, including USB-C, USB-A, DC car port, and AC ports, add to its versatility, allowing you to charge several devices simultaneously.

The smart app control feature enhances user convenience by offering different charging modes to suit various needs. However, it is noteworthy that the solar panels are optional and not included in the package, which might be a drawback for some users. Additionally, while the default 1.7-hour charging mode is designed to preserve battery health, it requires manual switching to the one-hour mode via the app every time, which may be cumbersome for some. The build quality is robust, making it a durable option for outdoor use. This power station is particularly suitable for those who value portability, fast charging, and a long lifespan in their solar backup generator.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,131
Battery Capacity
Power Output
Portability

Most important from
2732 reviews

Battery Capacity
With a substantial 1,070Wh capacity and versatile LED lamp, it proves useful during power outages.
Power Output
The inverter provides steady AC output, maintaining a consistent 120V even under load.
Portability
The Jackery is lighter and easier to carry around, thanks to its hinged handle, compared to heavier models.
Charging Options
Charging is efficient, with the default fast mode fully charging the unit in under 2 hours, and the quiet mode significantly reducing noise.
#2

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 with 200W Solar Panel,1070Wh Portable Power Station LiFePO4 Battery,1500W AC/100W USB-C Output, 1Hr Fast Charge for Outdoor,Off-Grid Living,RV,Emergency

Rating
9.8
Battery Capacity
Power Output
Portability

Most important from
2732 reviews

Battery Capacity
The Explorer 1000 is consistently priced lower than the Ecoflow Delta 2, and offers a good LED lamp, slightly bigger capacity, and a more convenient design.
Power Output
It handled various power tools and household appliances well, but struggled with high-draw devices like a table saw and air compressor.
Portability
The Jackery Explorer 1000 is lightweight, highly portable, and powerful enough to run a wide range of appliances and tools.
Charging Options
Despite initial charging issues, the Explorer 1000 charges quickly and quietly, reaching full charge in well under 2 hours with the fast mode.
Durability and Build Quality
It's quiet, reliable, and manages energy very well, making it a top choice for emergencies and camping.
Inverter Type
The inverter on the Explorer 1000 is excellent, providing steady AC output without voltage drops.

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 is designed to be a powerful yet highly portable solution for those needing reliable power in various settings, like outdoor adventures or emergency situations. With a robust 1,500W AC output and a 3,000W surge peak, it’s capable of running multiple devices simultaneously, including demanding appliances like fridges and electric pots. Its battery capacity of 1,070Wh is substantial, providing ample power for extended periods.

Weighing just 23.8 lbs and featuring a foldable handle, it's easy to transport, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts or those living off-grid. The 200W solar panel compatibility ensures that you can recharge it sustainably, adding to its versatility for off-grid use. The inclusion of various charging options, including fast USB-C and multiple AC ports, means you can power a wide range of devices. The one-hour fast charging feature is particularly impressive, though it requires enabling the emergency charging function in the app each time.

Durability is a strong point with its LFP battery, designed to last over 10 years with a high cycle life. However, the need to use the Jackery App for certain features might be a drawback for those not keen on relying on apps for device management. Additionally, the separate shipping of the generator and solar panel could be a minor inconvenience. The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 stands out for its powerful performance, portability, and durability, making it a solid choice for users needing a reliable and versatile power source.

Rating
9.8
Battery Capacity
Power Output
Portability

Most important from
2732 reviews

Battery Capacity
The Explorer 1000 is consistently priced lower than the Ecoflow Delta 2, and offers a good LED lamp, slightly bigger capacity, and a more convenient design.
Power Output
It handled various power tools and household appliances well, but struggled with high-draw devices like a table saw and air compressor.
Portability
The Jackery Explorer 1000 is lightweight, highly portable, and powerful enough to run a wide range of appliances and tools.
Charging Options
Despite initial charging issues, the Explorer 1000 charges quickly and quietly, reaching full charge in well under 2 hours with the fast mode.
Durability and Build Quality
It's quiet, reliable, and manages energy very well, making it a top choice for emergencies and camping.
Inverter Type
The inverter on the Explorer 1000 is excellent, providing steady AC output without voltage drops.
#3

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 v2 with 2x200W Solar Panels, 2042Wh/2200W LiFePo4 Portable Power Station, 20ms UPS Home Backup, USB-C PD 100W Fast Charging for Power Outages, Emergencies, Camping & RVing

Rating
9.6
Battery Capacity
Power Output
Portability

Most important from
537 reviews

Battery Capacity
Heavy due to its 2kWh battery capacity, but the big handle makes it manageable for home backups.
Power Output
Easy to use with a lot of capacity and power output; recharges efficiently from both AC and generators.
Portability
Heavy due to its 2kWh battery capacity, but the big handle makes it manageable for home backups.
Charging Options
Charges quickly from home outlets and offers a great deal when on sale.

The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 v2 is a reliable option for solar-backup needs with its impressive 2042Wh battery capacity and 2200W power output. It includes two 200W solar panels, making it highly compatible with solar energy. This generator is designed for various applications including home backup, camping, and emergencies, and has three AC ports for versatile power needs.

With a weight of 39.5 lbs, it is notably lighter and smaller than many similar capacity generators, enhancing portability. The charging options are flexible, including fast AC charging to 80% in just 66 minutes, a full charge in 102 minutes via an emergency super mode, and solar charging in about 6 hours. The Silent Charging mode ensures minimal disturbance at 30dB noise level. Its LiFePo4 battery promises long-lasting durability, up to 10 years, and features advanced temperature control for safety.

Additionally, the generator offers a 20ms uninterrupted power switch for seamless operation during outages, which is particularly beneficial for critical applications. However, it may be less portable for some users considering its total weight with components. The item can be shipped separately, requiring cautious handling when ordering. With specialized features like fast USB-C PD 100W charging, it is a strong candidate for anyone needing reliable, clean, and efficient backup power solutions.

Rating
9.6
Battery Capacity
Power Output
Portability

Most important from
537 reviews

Battery Capacity
Heavy due to its 2kWh battery capacity, but the big handle makes it manageable for home backups.
Power Output
Easy to use with a lot of capacity and power output; recharges efficiently from both AC and generators.
Portability
Heavy due to its 2kWh battery capacity, but the big handle makes it manageable for home backups.
Charging Options
Charges quickly from home outlets and offers a great deal when on sale.

Buying Guide for the Best Solar Backup Generators

Choosing the right solar backup generator can be a game-changer for ensuring you have power during outages or when you're off the grid. The key to making the best choice is understanding your power needs and how different specifications of solar generators can meet those needs. Here are some important specifications to consider when selecting a solar backup generator, along with explanations to help you navigate through them.
Battery CapacityBattery capacity, measured in watt-hours (Wh), indicates how much energy the generator can store. This is crucial because it determines how long the generator can power your devices. If you need to run high-energy appliances like refrigerators or multiple devices for extended periods, look for a higher capacity (e.g., 1000Wh or more). For occasional use or smaller devices, a lower capacity (e.g., 300-500Wh) might suffice. Assess your energy consumption needs to choose the right capacity.
Power OutputPower output, measured in watts (W), tells you the maximum amount of power the generator can provide at any given time. This is important because it affects what devices you can run simultaneously. Generators with higher power output (e.g., 1000W or more) can handle larger appliances, while those with lower output (e.g., 300-500W) are better for smaller electronics. Consider the wattage requirements of the devices you plan to use to determine the appropriate power output.
Solar Panel CompatibilitySolar panel compatibility refers to the types and sizes of solar panels that can be used to recharge the generator. This is important for ensuring efficient recharging, especially if you rely on solar energy as your primary power source. Some generators come with built-in panels, while others require separate purchases. Check the input specifications and ensure the panels you choose are compatible with the generator. If you need faster recharging, look for generators that support higher wattage solar panels.
PortabilityPortability is about the size, weight, and ease of transporting the generator. This is crucial if you plan to use the generator for camping, traveling, or moving it around your home. Lighter and more compact models are easier to carry but may have lower capacity and output. Heavier models might offer more power but can be cumbersome to move. Consider how and where you will use the generator to decide on the right balance between portability and power.
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, especially in different scenarios. Generators with multiple charging options provide more versatility. If you need a generator for emergencies, ensure it can be charged quickly and through various means. Evaluate your typical usage scenarios to choose a generator with suitable charging options.
Durability and Build QualityDurability and build quality indicate how well the generator can withstand wear and tear, weather conditions, and rough handling. This is important for ensuring longevity and reliability, especially if you use the generator outdoors or in harsh environments. Look for generators with robust construction, weather-resistant features, and good customer reviews on durability. If you need a generator for frequent outdoor use, prioritize models known for their ruggedness.
Inverter TypeThe inverter type determines the quality of the power output, with pure sine wave inverters providing cleaner and more stable power compared to modified sine wave inverters. This is important for sensitive electronics like laptops and medical devices, which require stable power to function properly. If you plan to power such devices, opt for a generator with a pure sine wave inverter. For less sensitive devices, a modified sine wave inverter might be sufficient.

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