Introduction
In an emergency, it’s important to have a portable power station on hand to keep things like hospital devices, radios, refrigerators, and cell phones powered up. Many power stations have both normal AC outlets and USB connections for charging numerous appliances simultaneously. Because they don’t use gasoline, kerosene, or methane like standard generators, transportable power generators have the edge over them.
It is also possible to keep your device recharged and the radio operating using portable inverters. As a result, battery backups are considerably safer to utilize inside, saving you time and money. On the other hand, traditional generators don’t provide as many power output alternatives as power stations.
We have a special section on the variations between mobile generating stations and standard generators that goes over everything from energy and cost requirements to how temperature and earthquakes affect your backup power choices. Check out our list if you’d like to learn more about the Best Portable Power Stations for backup electricity.
What is the Best Portable Power Station in 2023?
While there exist many portable power stations that can help you get started with life during emergencies, the Ecoflow River Pro is an excellent choice. This unit did test lowest in measured versus projected capacity, placing it at 425 useable watt-hours, making it a viable selection. Blazing fast charging and a cheap cost per watt-hour make it a good pick. Where did all of those 151 additional watt-hours go to?
You can also opt for the Anker 545 version. Quick charging times, but bear in mind that it has a lower capacity. In addition, I like how it has an extra wide display screen and a light bar positioned on the back.
The next one we recommend using is the Jackery 1000 Watts Power Station. This is a straightforward and unadorned unit. If you merely need electricity, full stop, this solution will work for you, provided it can meet your capacity requirements. It takes a long time to charge, has a capacity rating lower than usual, and costs more than it should.
10 Best Portable Power Station
1. Necespow Portable Power Station – Best Wireless Power Station
OverviewThe 161.28Wh (50400mAh) Portable Power Station comes with 1 AC 110V/150W outcome (Peak Power 300w), 2 DC outputs, 1 Type-C QC 3.0 rapid charging outcome, and 2 routine USB ports (2.4A auto). It can supply sufficient power to your mobile phone, tablet, laptop, camera, light, Drone, fan, in-car appliances, CPAP machine, and other electronic devices at any time. |
Specifications
| Connector Type | USB Type C |
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
| Recommended Usage | Drone, Tablet, Camera, Laptop |
| Output Wattage | 300 Watts Max |
Power Station Review
The Lifepo4 Battery that this Solar Generator is powered by has a 4-6 times greater lifespan than that of comparable Lithium-ion batteries. It also has a cycle life of 2000 and can be used for more than 10 years.
The lithium-based battery that is the most secure and least harmful to the environment is the Lifepo4 battery, which the Portable Power Station uses. Before making your first use of the power station, ensure it is completely charged.
It has five different methods to charge, including the ability to charge the built-in MPPT with a solar panel, to charge it with a car charger (12-24V), to charge it with a PD charger, and to charge it swiftly via the Type-C connector – up to 65W of input and output power. If the wall socket is present, you can use an AC outlet to charge the power supply. The AC outlet and the PD charge will be simultaneously charged, and the total time required for charging will be just two to three hours.
The aviation aluminium alloy casing with heat-removing innovation (Built-in Mini-conditioning Fan the temperature of the portable power station) and the leather grip make the power box seem more sturdy and sophisticated than the Westinghouse iGen160s model!
A large capacity of 161.28Wh while maintaining an ultra-compact and lightweight design. Excellent solar generator after solar electricity has been stored via solar panels (sold separately). Ideal for CPAP (12V), RV, Drone, camper, van tour, off-grid battery backup, Camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
During the charging and discharging processes, the temperature that is currently present inside the battery pack will be shown on the screen. Temperature control, voltage control, protection from short circuits, and power supply management are all provided by the battery management system (BMS).
Pros
- lightweight and portable
- comes with warranty
- extendable battery
Cons
- poor USB C port
2. Ecoflow River Pro Portable Power Station – Best Budget-Friendly
OverviewA pricey solar power station, the Ecoflow Delta does not come with solar panels, but they can be purchased separately. The Delta, on the other hand, charges astonishingly quickly. When you think of a solar charger, you probably picture something like the Delta that takes four to eight hours to charge. A normal AC cord can charge from 0% to 80% in an hour for people who want electricity immediately. |
Specifications
| Connector Type | USB Type C |
| Voltage | 110 Voltage |
| Recommended Usage | Laptop, Computer, iPad, Drone |
| Output Wattage | 600 Watts |
Power Station Review
The time-honoured generator has been given a modern makeover by EcoFlow, with a few new bells and whistles. Its most recent offering, known as the EcoFlow Smart Generator, is a highly advanced generator that runs on gas and is designed to collaborate closely with other EcoFlow products, such as the Delta Pro battery station. It is an effort to find a solution to the challenge of power outages that endure for more than a few hours, which is the Achilles’ heel of battery-based power systems.
The generator comes with various accessories, such as an oil funnel, a screwdriver, and a spark plug socket, that are required for the routine maintenance that must be performed. A user manual and a warranty card are also included in the package. An additional battery cable makes it possible to begin using the generator immediately with other EcoFlow devices.
Using the EcoFlow mobile app, which is downloadable for iOS and Android, one can exercise control over the generator over Wi-Fi. The configuration is fairly simple, and you can start the pairing process by depressing and holding the IOT reset button for a few seconds.
Two LEDs on the front panel show a warning for changing the engine oil and carbon monoxide. The smartphone’s connection to the generator and the activation of the 1800-watt AC output plug are both controlled by two push buttons.
If you currently own other EcoFlow products, the Smart Generator is an excellent addition to your collection. For instance, it works well as a companion to the Delta Pro, enhancing the latter’s capabilities by supplying a supplementary power source.
Pros
- excellent for camping trips
- impressive output
- useful portable charging
Cons
- very slow recharging
3. Apowking Portable Power Bank – Best Power Bank Power Station
OverviewThis portable power bank has seven outlets. 2x 110V/100W AC outlets for tablets, laptops, fans, lighting, and other devices; Quick charging through USB1+USB2 (5V/3.1A), USB3+USBC 3.0 (5V/3A, 9V/2A) for phones, drones, iPad, GPS, MP3, camera, and other devices; 1x DC 12V output (9-12.6V/10A Max) for automotive vacuum, air fan, and other applications. |
Specifications
| Connector Type | USB Type C |
| Voltage | 110 Volts (AC) |
| Recommended Usage | Laptop, GPS, Emergency Outage, Drones, etc. |
| Output Wattage | 100 Watts |
Power Station Review
This portable power station’s 146Wh/39600mAh lithium-ion battery pack is strong enough to charge various smart gadgets such as computers, phones, tablets, cameras, drones, fans, in-car appliances, and so on. It is an essential AC power bank for outdoor activities, hurricanes, and home emergency power outages.
This power bank can be recharged by a 13-23V solar panel (not included) to become an energy-saving solar generator. It can also be charged effectively using an AC power converter and a vehicle charger. The digital display indicates the remaining energies while charging and discharging, as well as the AC output and DC output status, so you never have to worry about a power outage delaying your activities.
The built-in twin LED flashlights to have three modes: light, strobe, and SOS, which are highly helpful and convenient for a night in an emergency, both inside and outdoors. It also has built-in cooling vents to reject heat when charging, giving you and your gadgets complete safety.
This portable power bank with an AC plug can also be used for Camping, fishing, touring, and lighting festival-led lights. It is a useful gift for your family and friends.
With a weight of 3.3lb, the battery power bank is portable, small, and lightweight, fitting well in a backpack or luggage, and simple to carry wherever you go. It has a much stronger USB port than the Apowking 40W model!
Pros
- large capacity
- three ways to charge
- lightweight with LED flashlights
Cons
- reports of AC output not working
4. Bluetti Portable Power Station – Best Bluetti Power Bank
OverviewAll this for the lowest “cost per watt-hour” of any device we tested, and it takes around three hours to charge fully. Normally, it would make this unit eligible for our “best value” category, but because it is also the costliest unit on our list at $1,599, that is a difficult judgment. |
Specifications
| Connector Type | USB Type C |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Recommended Usage | Laptop, GPS, Drone, Tablet, etc. |
| Output Wattage | 2000 Watts |
Power Station Review
This machine is neither for the faint of heart nor the weak of the arm, weighing in at little under 60 pounds. With a colossal 2,000 watt-hours of energy storage, this machine can keep you running for years if you can only get it set up where you want it. It has a mobile app that can be used for simple settings and monitoring. There are over 3,500 charge cycles in the LiFePO4 battery.
In the case of a deck-building project, the AC200P can be used to power a mitre saw. No issue, it falls inside the 2,000 W zone because of its operating power rating of 1,800 W, but it also needs an extra 1,800 W of surge power to get started. This means that you could theoretically operate 10 LED lights simultaneously, which is more than what the Bluetti 50S offers, each with a 200W power rating, over a network connection. When LED lights are switched on, they don’t often need any “additional” electricity to get started.
The surge wattage and power rating of portable power stations are two further aspects that are frequently disregarded. Continuous power ratings (measured in watts) are varied for each item. Additionally, this device has a capacity rating of 2,000Wh and an output power rating.
Portable power stations with surge ratings this high are rare. For example, the surge power figure is usually twice the nominal power rating. However, the AC200P has a tremendous 4,800W surge power. Larger tools and heaters can be used at isolated work sites or when camping with enormous heaters.
Pros
- efficient recharging rate
- a ‘monster’ in terms of functionalities
- ultra-safe to use
Cons
- BMS doesn’t work properly
5. Anker 521 Portable Power Station – Best Compact Power Station
OverviewAnker 521 Portable Power Station (PowerHouse 256Wh), DC converter, vehicle charging cable, welcome booklet, our worry-free 5-year guarantee, and cheerful customer care are all included with this purchase. |
Specifications
| Connector Type | USB Type C |
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
| Recommended Usage | Tablet, Computer, Drone, etc. |
| Output Wattage | 200 Watts |
Power Station Review
The portable power station has premium LiFePO4 batteries, which have a lifetime that is six times longer than other types of batteries, a drop-proof unibody construction, and electric components that are industry-standard, which contribute to the product’s increased durability.
The large capacity portable power station generates 256Wh of electricity, making it the ideal travel companion for recharging electronic gadgets and other low-powered home appliances when away for the weekend. If you compare this version to the 535 Powerhouse model, this one’s more portable and lightweight!
It’s time to do away from those cumbersome adapters since a single connection is all you need to charge your laptop at high rates. Observe how the power station charges itself while providing a rapid charge to various electronic gadgets.
The 521 Portable Electricity Station provides power to your electronic gadgets for ten years, as opposed to only two years. In addition, it comes with a unique warranty that covers the item in its whole for five years so that you can use it without any concerns.
The charging station provides you with a vehicle outlet, two USB-A ports, one USB-C connector, and two AC outlets so that you can charge all of your electronic gadgets and home appliances throughout the weekend.
Pros
- durable and long-lasting
- extra USB-C Port
- 6 ports for use
Cons
- reports of charging problems
6. Grecell Portable Power Station – Best Portable Power Station
OverviewIt has built-in overload and overcharging protection, as well as short-circuiting safeguards. Several fans carefully monitor the station’s temperature. Bright orange, non-slip feet keep the floor safe. This device has a master power-off switch that simultaneously shuts off all outputs. |
Specifications
| Connector Type | USB Type C |
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
| Recommended Usage | Lights, Fans, Speaker, Camera, Medical Devices |
| Output Wattage | 330 Watts |
Power Station Review
Long camping treks, power outages, and other situations requiring transportable power are made easier with the GRECELL 330W/288Wh portable power station’s 8 outputs (AC/DC, USB-A/USB-C). Laptops, tablets, mobile phones, projectors, TVs, mini-refrigerators, speakers, and cameras up to 330W are all suitable for this gadget. It also works with medical equipment like CPAP machines.
USB-C supports PD (Power Delivery), making it possible to charge compatible laptops up to 60W over the interface. In addition, all the USB-A ports have QuickCharge 3.0, so you won’t have to worry about your buddies vying for a fast-charging port.
This implies that pure sine wave power flows in even, arched waves. In contrast, modified sine wave power is transmitted to your equipment in a chunky carrier wave, which is necessary if you use it for costly or sensitive equipment. Despite being the older version, the Grecell 300W has more or less the same features as the 500W version.
Using our current photovoltaic power and the MPPT solar battery charger built-in, we can charge the battery quickly and efficiently while also getting the most out of our variable power sources, such as a solar generator. Regardless of how you’re recharging it, you can use it. This implies you can hook a solar array into it and power your refrigerator simultaneously.
Pros
- power many devices at the same time
- strong build for longer use
- lightweight and portable to carry around
Cons
- a bit expensive
7. Marbero 88wh Power Station – Best Splurge Power Station
OverviewThe 88-Wh portable charger from Marbero isn’t as powerful as larger, costlier chargers, but it’s lightweight at just 2.4 pounds. Additionally, it has lighting and enough power to keep personal gadgets and bigger objects like computers and CPAP machines operating when required. |
Specifications
| Connector Type | USB Type C |
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
| Recommended Usage | Wireless Headphones, PSPS, IPad, etc. |
| Output Wattage | 88 Watts |
Power Station Review
When you need a portable power source on the road or in an emergency, a mobile power station with a small handle design is ideal, and Marbero offers just that. Perfect for students to charge their phones, laptops, iPad, PSPs, cameras, wireless headphones, and other electronic devices.
Voltage, temperature, and other sophisticated safety features can all be managed through the Battery Management System (BMS). High temperatures will not harm this portable power supply’s internal electrical parts because of the cooling vents on the rear. A short circuit or overload will cause it to immediately cut off the power, protecting itself and the items it is powering.
With 3-level LED lights, you can choose between steady and flashing modes to fit your specific demands, making this generator ideal for emergencies. And despite being less pricey, Marbero Power Station offers more in terms of functionalities than the Jackery 500W version.
Toggling between high and low beam and SOS modes is as simple as pressing the LED flashlight switch. This power source will come in handy if you’re going on a camping trip or if there are power disruptions.
Pros
- portable and compact
- two recharging modes
- multi outputs for use
Cons
- not long battery life
8. Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 – Best Solar Powered
OverviewExperts and customers alike are unanimous in their praise for the Jackery Explorer300, and with good reason. Its lithium-ion battery pack has a capacity of 518 Watts when fully charged, thanks to its tough design. |
Specifications
| Connector Type | USB Type C |
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
| Recommended Usage | MacBook, cameras, Drone, etc. |
| Output Wattage | 500 Watts |
Power Station Review
The power station is compatible with the Jackery SolarSaga 100 solar panel. The MPPT controller integrated into the solar generator set enables it to operate at its maximum power point, speeding up battery recharge and making it an ideal portable power kit for tent camping, overland travel, etc.
Two AC outlets, a PD 60W USB-C connection, a quick charge 3.0 port, a USB-A port, and a DC vehicle port allow the power station to recharge itself and charge (up to) six devices simultaneously to satisfy your outdoor requirements.
Two Pure Sine Wave AC outlets on the Explorer 300 are powered by a 293Wh lithium-ion battery pack and provide The 7.1-pound weight of the mobile power station is impressive. It’s possible to unwind while indulging in off-grid activities outside.
With the 60W PD USB-C connection and the wall outlet, the power station’s 80 percent battery can be recharged in about two hours. You can also use an AC converter at home, a car outlet on the go or a Jackery SolarSaga 100 to recharge your power station.
Pros
- green power supply
- comes with a chargeable car cable
- excellent battery life
Cons
- serious USB-C flaws
9. Anker 545 Portable Power Station – Best Automative Power Station
OverviewWith a staggering 778 watt-hours capacity, this portable charging station is a dependable backup or a convenient travel companion. The power station has two AC outlets, two USB-C ports, four USB-A ports, a vehicle-class outlet, and two DC outlets. With a power output of up to 770W, even the smallest appliances and gadgets can function at peak efficiency and charge as quickly as possible. |
Specifications
| Connector Type | USB Type C |
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
| Recommended Usage | RV, Camping, and other emergencies |
| Output Wattage | 500 Watts |
Power Station Review
With the combined DC and USB-C inputs providing 240W of power flow, this Anker 545 power station recharges in as little as 4.9 hours. Powered by DC and unique “Anderson” connectors, the PowerHouse II 800 is compatible with most solar panels.
With a capacity of 778 watt-hours of backup power, this portable power station is ideal for extended road trips or in the event of an emergency. Its 770W output means your gadgets will be charged as quickly as possible and perform to their full potential.
MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) technology and a maximum input of 120W work together to offer maximum recharging efficiency in this charger. PowerHouse is built to withstand whatever you throw, thanks to its reinforced corners. Low-draw devices like CPAP machines benefit from the consistent power provided by PowerHouse’s AC outlets.
Plugging in the DC converter and two USB-C chargers can bring the pumping station back into operation within 4.9 hours. You’ll return to work instantly if you use the DC and USB-C outlets. This one is much more powerful than the Powerhouse 535 version but expensive too.
Pros
- the idea for camping trips
- best for long-term investment
- decent for emergencies
Cons
- doesn’t work well with CPAP
10. Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer – Best Overall Power Station
OverviewEach panel features USB-C and USB-A outputs, allowing you to charge your electronic devices directly without going via the portable power station itself. This allows you to utilize the panels even if you do not have the Jackery 1500, which is a convenient feature. |
Specifications
| Connector Type | USB Type C |
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
| Recommended Usage | Speakers, Microphone, Tablet, etc. |
| Output Wattage | 1000 Watts |
Power Station Review
The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 is a solar-powered portable power station with all the necessary components. It is Jackery’s second-largest power station. It has a large battery with a capacity of 1002 watt-hours, an abundance of outlets, and a relatively light at 22 pounds, making it simple to transport and set up wherever required.
This all-in-one system can provide a constant 1000 watts of power. It can spike up to a maximum of 2000 watts, meaning that it can power most of your appliances and gadgets in an emergency, on the work site, or over an extended camping trip. And because it has more power than the 500 Watts version, it lasts longer!
In addition, you get two of Jackery’s powerful SolarSaga 100X solar panels, each capable of charging the battery in around eight hours. You can use the SolarSaga panels alone or in conjunction with one another to create 200 watts of power.
Even if the solar panels aren’t connected, they can, for instance, power a CPAP machine or a mini-fridge for around 17 hours without further charging. If there is a lot of sunlight throughout the day, the solar panels can keep your most important equipment charged up for an even longer period.
Pros
- lightweight to carry around
- value for money
- decent power outage
Cons
- not ideal for emergency essentials
Buying Guide – Things to Look for When Buying a Power Station
Take a look at the following factors when buying the power station of your dreams:
Output Wattage
You’ll need a generator with sufficient outputs to accommodate your needs. It varies from person to person. Because of this, you need to determine how many gadgets you typically charge at a time.
Input Ports
It is also critical to consider the nature of the inputs. Lithium-ion batteries are used to power solar-powered power systems. Consequently, if it’s sunny outdoors, you can use this feature. As a backup, you’ll always have a good battery.
Recharging Time
The time it takes for the power station to charge significantly impacts how you plan your use completely. If charging your power station takes a lengthy time, you’ll want to account for it in your planning.
Portability
When you need a power station on the road, which is virtually always, you want something lightweight yet strong enough to charge your devices. Keep in mind that the typical weight of a power station is between 10 and 15 pounds.
Battery Safety and Durability
When utilizing a power station, you should have confidence in its security. It’s crucial to choose a battery that is safe and long-lasting since accidents might happen.
Warranty
It’s easy to underestimate the importance of a warranty when purchasing a product. You’ll be better off if you have a problem down the road if you have a warranty.
The Bottom Line
If there is a power outage at your home, using any of the recommendations in this post is a more environmentally responsible choice than turning on a gas-powered generator or vehicle engine to power your phone and other vital electronic devices for at least an hour.
The Best Portable Power Stations also make it possible for you to switch out camping equipment that runs on fossil fuels with battery-powered versions of the same item; for example, some lamps and stoves run on fossil fuels.