Solar Powered Portable Charger: Key Facts & The Best Picks

Extended hiking expeditions, multi-day camping vacations, and other outdoor adventures are now frequently accompanied by battery-powered devices for navigation, communication, or entertainment.

These items may need to be recharged during the journey if access to mains electricity is limited or impossible. Various solar-powered portable chargers are available that use the sun's unrestrained power to help with this to varied degrees.

They are everywhere nowadays, an essential adjunct for modern living in our always-connected world. This comprehensive introduction to the solar-powered portable charger includes everything you need to know, including what it is, its benefits and drawbacks, how it works, and how to choose the best one. Meanwhile, as the best solar-powered portable chargers, we strongly recommend Jackery Solar Generators, which combine solar panels with portable power stations to use solar energy fully.

Key Takeaways:

A solar-powered portable charger is a converter that uses solar energy to power batteries or electronic devices.
The benefits of solar-powered chargers outweigh the drawbacks, such as their portability, durability, cost-effectiveness, convenience, and versatility.
These solar-powered portable chargers comprise solar panels of photovoltaic (PV) cell blocks that generate electricity from the sun's rays and battery to store electricity.
The solar-powered chargers can power phones and other small appliances, boats, caravans, RVs, and more.
We highly recommend Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro and 500 as the best solar-powered portable chargers for charging most appliances.
When choosing the best solar charger, consider its power, portability, backup battery, connections, and power efficiency.

What Is A Solar-Powered Portable Charger?

A solar-powered portable charger is a converter that uses solar energy to power batteries or electronic devices. Typically, they are portable and straightforward to use. However, many non-portable, standalone solar charger units are being installed in urban areas to provide the public with mobile phone and tablet charging stations.

If effectively harnessed, the sun can be considered the best energy source on Earth. It is the only source of renewable energy that is inexhaustible. This is why solar-powered devices, such as portable chargers, are currently in use.

These are, as the name suggests, solar-powered battery adapters. These chargers can recharge virtually all modern devices, including cell phones, laptops, iPads, portable speakers, digital cameras, etc.

What Are The Benefits and Drawbacks of Solar-Powered Portable Chargers?

Solar chargers are an option for maintaining battery life. You can use them to power a variety of solar-powered devices. Solar-powered portable chargers are a superior alternative to traditional battery chargers. Here are some benefits:

Cost-Effective: Due to the rechargeable feature, a solar-powered portable charger can save money by eliminating the need for disposable batteries. Because there are no mechanical parts and it is simple to operate, there are no maintenance costs. In addition, a high-capacity solar charger can charge your appliances using free energy, reducing your electricity expenditure.

Using in Power Outages: A solar-powered portable recharge is a readily available alternative energy source if electricity is unavailable. If you are in a remote location, such as an isolated island or rugged mountain, or the power supply has been cut off, it is time to use solar energy to charge your appliances.

Portability: Whether frequently traveling, camping in the wilderness, or living off the grid, solar-powered portable chargers are the best option for charging your electronic devices, especially for high-capacity solar chargers, such as Jackery Solar Generators, which are ideal for outdoor excursions due to their portability and high capacity.

Convenience: Some solar chargers contain an internal battery that can store energy. If there is no time or opportunity to collect energy from sunlight and you need to charge an electronic device, the stored energy in the battery will be used.

Durability: Solar-powered portable chargers are most effective on a bright, sunny day but can also be effective in frigid climates. Some of them are impermeable.

Although solar-powered portable chargers have many benefits, they also have some drawbacks:

Time to Recharge: There is no comparison between the capacity of a solar battery charger and a conventional battery charger. As these batteries are not particularly potent, it takes considerably longer to charge them.

Limited Capacity: Solar chargers produce only a relatively small current. Therefore, its primary function is to maintain the charge in a battery instead of charging a wholly depleted battery. Also, solar-powered portable chargers have lower capacities than gasoline, diesel, or propane generators. Therefore, these batteries can be used as a supplement rather than as a sole power source.

Pros of Solar-Powered Portable Charger:

Cons of Solar-Powered Portable Charger:

- Cost-effective

- Using in any power outages or emergencies

- Portability

- Convenience

- Durability

- Sustainability

- Takes a long time to recharge

- Limited capacity

How Does A Solar-Powered Portable Charger Work?

These solar-powered portable chargers comprise solar panels of photovoltaic (PV) cell blocks that generate electricity from the sun's rays. When particles from the sun strike the solar panels, the PV cells absorb them.

Batteries undergo a chemical reaction that transfers electrons to the electronic circuits of our devices. During this process, the production of electrons is slowed and eventually stopped by residual particles. There are other voltage capacities, such as 24V, 36V, and so on, for solar-powered portable chargers.

The following criteria should be considered when purchasing the quietest generator for camping:

How Do Solar Panels Work in A Solar-Powered Portable Charger?

How do the solar panels in a solar-powered portable charger function? Watts is the unit of measurement for power, and the larger the solar panel, the more power it will produce. Solar panels on more efficient solar devices have a limited wattage. Solar panels are the generators that convert the sun's radiation into electricity so that batteries and devices can be charged.

The solar panels do not store energy; instead, they charge a rechargeable battery cell, which can then store energy for later use. Some panels can be used to directly assess a device's battery, such as a phone or radio; however, smaller panels are unlikely to generate enough current to be recognized by the device, or the charge rate will be so sluggish as impractical.

How Does The Battery Work in A Solar-Powered Portable Charger?

Solar-powered portable chargers typically have an integral or distinct battery charged by the solar panel. All can be charged via solar, as well as via mains power or USB.

There are two primary reasons for the battery: first, the battery builds and stores a greater capacity than the panel can directly deliver, which can then be effectively unloaded from a device more rapidly. The battery can then store energy when required or when the sun is not shining.

With integral battery solar adapters, the solar panel is responsible for charging its internal battery, and devices are always charged using this storage. It renders the solar charger simple, clean, orderly, and less adaptable.

Units with a separate battery are more versatile because the battery pack can be used independently of the solar panel and conveniently carried during urban travel, recharging from USB or mains, such as the Jackery Solar Generator, which has a distinct power station.

How Does A Jackery Portable Solar Generator Work?

Jackery Solar Generators are uncomplicated charging devices that harness the power of solar energy. The process involves establishing a connection between Portable Power Stations and Jackery Solar Panels, then positioning them in direct sunlight to facilitate solar energy conversion into electrical power.

Subsequently, the electrical energy is transformed into a suitable format for energizing electronic devices by utilizing an inverter within the power station.

The Jackery Solar Generators are intentionally designed and constructed to possess a high degree of user-friendliness. The sole requirement entails connecting the Jackery Solar Panels and the Portable Power Stations. Solar panels generate electrical energy when they are exposed to sunlight.

The solar charging line facilitates the transmission of electrical energy to the Portable Power Stations, which undergoes a conversion process to a usable form for powering various equipment. The surplus electricity generated will be kept at this location.

Next, connect the Portable Power Stations to the desired electronic device to charge or utilize. The energy transfer from the power station to your gadget will occur automatically. The entire technique is straightforward.

What Are The Usages of Solar-Powered Portable Chargers?

There are so many applications for solar-powered portable chargers that they appear almost limitless. Chargers and batteries of various sizes can serve distinct purposes. The most common solar charger applications include:

Phones: Portable phone chargers are one of the most widely available solar chargers on the market. In a world where cell phones have become indispensable, keeping them charged at all times has become a top priority. Miniature models of portable solar chargers can charge various mobile phones, earphones, headphones, smartwatches, and other portable audio devices.

Boats or Marine Usages: Solar energy enables marine enthusiasts to spend more time on the water without being concerned about running out of power. Several manufacturers offer solar systems suitable for a variety of marine transportation.

Caravans & RVs: Solar energy is an excellent source for caravans, recreational vehicles, and camper trailers. Solar-powered portable chargers provide the flexibility and freedom to store solar energy, allowing you to transport your van lifestyle anywhere and maintain power even when sunlight is scarce.

What Devices Can Be Charged by A Solar-Powered Portable Charger?

Solar-powered portable chargers come in various capacities. In the case of compact solar chargers, the battery packs incorporated into these mobile devices uniformly possess an output voltage of 5V. This particular voltage value aligns optimally with the recharging requirements of 3.7V Li-ion batteries, commonly employed in handheld electronic gadgets such as iPods and smartphones.

Commonly, these devices encompass a range of electronic gadgets such as cell phones, laptops, and several other compact devices that only depend on electrical energy. Solar chargers are highly effective when combined with portable solar panels for recreational vehicles (RVs). These devices enable the acquisition of environmentally friendly power while on the move.

The charging process of Li-ion batteries is associated with certain inefficiencies, resulting in a 20% increase in energy consumption required to fully charge the battery due to energy dissipation in the form of heat. Hence, a mere 80% of the charging battery's capacity will be utilized to charge a gadget. Taking into the factors, the following equation indicates the potential number of charging cycles that can be achieved from a single battery:

Number of complete charges = (Charging Battery Capacity x 0.8)/ Device Battery Capacity

The charging speed of a device is determined by the gadget's design rather than the solar-powered portable charger. The device is engineered to draw a maximum current, irrespective of whether additional electricity is provided.

Jackery Solar Generators: The Best Solar-Powered Portable Chargers

Jackery is a manufacturer specializing in producing solar products, including Jackery Solar Panels, Portable Power Stations, and Jackery Solar Generators.

The company strongly emphasizes maintaining high product quality while demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability. These devices provide a user-friendly interface, facilitate convenient transportation, need minimal maintenance and harness renewable energy sources to mitigate carbon emissions.

The Jackery Solar Generators, which have capacities ranging from 240Wh to 2160Wh, are considered the most suitable solar-powered portable chargers for various applications. These applications include outdoor excursions, home backup power supplies, off-grid living, and other similar scenarios. Please read the following text to acquire additional information regarding Jackery Solar Generators.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro

The availability of electricity during camping or caravanning trips can significantly impact the overall experience, transforming a trip from memorable to forgettable.

There are numerous ways to achieve this access, including a direct connection to a primary power source or the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro, which combines the Explorer 1000 Pro with the SolarSaga 80W or 100W.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro

View Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro👉

The Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro has two switched 240V AC power receptacles, one cigarette-style outlet, two USB A outlets, and two USB C outlets. In addition, the device has a three-level illumination feature, an integrated Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controller, and a digital interface that displays the battery's charge level, the electrical output in watts when an appliance is connected, and the input during the charging process.

The foldable handle has been explicitly designed to facilitate travel and stowage. This lightweight, compact power source with 1000 charge cycles and a reduced weight enables users to participate in various outdoor activities.

Capacity

Size

Output Ports

Working Hours

1002Wh

(43.2V, 23.2Ah)

34*26.2*25.5cm

(11.5kg)

2*AC Output: 230V, 1000W, peak 2000W; 2*USB-A: Quick Charge 3.0x2, 18W Max; 2*USB-C: 100W Max, (5V, 9V, 15V, 12V, 20V up to 5A); 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

Blender(300W): 2.5H

Space Heater(350W): 2.5H

Ice Shaver(700W): 1.2H

Coffee Maker(550W): 1.5H

Toaster(650W): 1.3H

Microwave(700W): 1.2H

Kettle(850W): 1H

Fan(150W): 5.3H

Jackery Solar Generator 500

The Jackery Solar Generator 500 has a 518Wh lithium-ion battery cell (24Ah, 21.6V) and a pure sine wave inverter. The device has one alternating current (AC) outlet that can provide 110V and 500W of electricity, with a maximum power output of 1000W.

In addition, there are three USB-A ports, two direct current (DC) ports, and a vehicle port. These outlets accommodate a variety of appliances, including low-power devices such as water pumps, micro coolers, and portable fans, as well as high-power appliances.

Jackery Solar Generator 500

View Jackery Solar Generator 500👉

The Jackery Explorer 500 portable power station has dimensions comparable to a regulation basketball and a robust handle. The Jackery Explorer 500's convenient portability and compact design make it an ideal choice for campers who wish to improve their caravan vacations and road trips.

In addition, the power station has an integrated MPPT charging controller of superior quality. This feature, combined with the Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panel, enables efficient and convenient green solar recharging.

Capacity

Size

Output Ports

Working Hours

518Wh

(21.6V, 24Ah)

30*19.3*24.2cm

(6.4kg)

1*AC Output: 240V, 500W, peak 1000W; 2*DC Outputs: 12V⎓7A; 1*USB-A: 5V⎓2.4A; 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

Phone(18W): 29.4Charges

TV(60W): 7.5H

Blender(300W): 7H

Coffee Maker(550W): 0.8H

Toaster(650W): 0.8H

Desktop(200W): 10H

Projector(100W): 3.5H

Space Heater(300W): 1.5H

How to Choose The Best Solar-Powered Portable Charger?

There are so many solar-powered portable chargers available in Australia that it can take time to select a reliable one. When choosing the best solar charger for your power needs, you should pay attention to the following details:

Power: Ensure you get a potent charger to charge the device you want in time. Therefore, you should search for a charger with a minimum of seven watts for charging a smartphone and 15 watts or more for charging multiple or more power-intensive devices, such as headphones. If you can afford a higher wattage, do so.

Portability: If you don't mind the extra weight, a folded solar panel can result in a larger surface area and more power than a single-panel charger. Still, you'll likely have to sacrifice power output for portability. Larger chargers typically charge devices more rapidly, although wattage is a more accurate indicator of charging speed.

Backup Battery: If you don't know if you'll have exposure to the sun (e.g., at night or when it's cloudy), ensure that your solar charger can store your charge in a rechargeable battery that charges your mobile device when you need it.

Connections: Ensure that the solar charger can charge your device and has sufficient terminals to charge multiple devices if desired. Typically, smaller electronic devices, such as those that can be charged via USB, require a 5V output rating. Larger electronic devices may need 12V-24V.

Power Efficiency: An efficient battery charger rapidly harnesses solar energy, so you need not worry if there is insufficient sunlight. Therefore, they are also beneficial in the winter, with less sunlight.

Solar-Powered Portable Charger FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about the solar-powered portable charger:

1. What size of solar generator do I need?

Jackery Solar Generators are the best solar-powered portable chargers due to their high output, portability, and adaptability. Compared to other solar chargers, our capacities vary from 240Wh to 2160Wh, which are enough for any activity, and you can choose one according to your needs.

Before selecting and buying your solar charger, you must figure out how many appliances you will use and how much power you will consume. Then use the following formula to calculate how many times that Jackery Solar Generators can charge for your appliances:

Working Time = Power Station Capacity*0.85 / Your Device's Operating Wattage

For instance, charging a 100W outdoor shower with the Solar Generator 1000 Pro (capacity: 1002Wh) will take approximately 8 hours (1002Wh*0.85/100W).

2. Solar-powered portable charger or battery: which one is better?

You may be debating whether a solar-powered portable charger or an external battery is necessary. An external battery pack should suffice for short trips, such as an overnight camping expedition. A small external battery can power small devices such as your mobile phone for up to two days when charged from a wall outlet or a USB port.

However, the external battery must be recharged when it runs out of power. Your external battery will probably die in the wilderness on more than two-day trips.

A portable solar charger can continue producing energy and recharge daily in the sun. Choose a portable solar charger that can charge via USB cable for the best of both worlds. Thus, the battery can be charged entirely at home before departure and then topped off using solar panels outdoors.

3. Is a solar-powered portable charger worth it?

If you need to decide whether or not a solar-powered portable charger is worthwhile, consider the following factors. The efficacy of the battery charger increases proportionally with the solar panel output. Therefore, if a portable solar power unit produces more energy (watts), the battery will also deliver more energy.

If the solar charger is incompatible with the device, it will not be worthwhile to purchase. Check the connection type and compatibility with the charger in advance. Every ounce of weight is essential to backpackers. Consequently, a solar-powered portable charger is always mobile and lightweight.

Final Thoughts

Do you want to be able to charge your electronic devices while on the go? Solar-powered portable chargers harvest energy from the sun to generate electricity for charging mobile phones, laptops, reading lights, portable fans, and other electronic devices. From this post, you will learn everything there is to know about portable solar chargers; you can choose one based on this guide, and we recommend Jackery Solar Generators as your best travel companion!