9 Best Solar Generators 2024

Solar generators are a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional generators that run on fossil fuels. They are charged using a solar panel or AC outlets and can be used in a variety of settings, including homes, businesses,  outdoor activities such as camping and fishing and also a back up power for off-grid living.

One of the major benefits of using a solar generator is that they are a portable power station, quiet and come in a range of sizes and power ratings and their relatively lighter wait, compared to gas-powered generators, makes them easier to transport and use in a variety of applications and settings. 

Following is a summary of all 9 power stations in this review with their main product features listed, for a more detailed look either click on “check price” or go to the table of contents and find the generator you want more information on.

Product Image	Product Features	Price
	BLUETTI Portable Power Station EB3A • 268Wh LiFePO4 battery pack • 2 x 600W (1200W surge) AC outlets • Ultra-fast charging from 0-80% in 30 minutes • Built-in MPPT controller for solar input • Reliable UPS for backup power	Check Price
	Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 • 293Wh lithium-ion battery pack • 2 Pure Sine Wave AC outlets that deliver stable and safe 300W power • Multiple charging options including wall outlet, car outlet, and solar panel (sold separately) • Multiple device charging with 2 AC outlets, 1 USB-C port, 1 fast charge 3.0 port, 1 USB-A port, and 1 DC car port	Check Price
	ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER 2 • 256Wh LiFePO4 Battery • 2 up to 600W AC outlets • 1 hour fast charging with X-Stream technology • Lightweight and portable design • Advanced BMS protection for battery longevity • Connects to app via Bluetooth for updates and control	Check Price
	ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA Mini • 882Wh capacity in a compact and lightweight design at 23.6lbs • X-Stream Fast Charging for 80% charge in under 1 hour • Solar-powered with the ability to handle up to 300W solar input with MPPT optimization • 1400W for up to 12 devices with the ability to power 1800W devices using X-Boost • Battery management system to ensure performance even in unfavorable conditions • EcoFlow app for monitoring solar input and device usage, with remote control capabilities	Check Price
	Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station • 100% green energy with smart MPPT controller • Certified with Impact-Resistance Class 9 • 8 outlets (3AC outlet, 1USB-A , 1USB-A quick charge 3.0, 2USB-C PD, 1*Car outlet) • 1002Wh Capacity with 3x1000W AC Outlets	Check Price
	Anker PowerHouse 757 Portable Power Station, 1500W Solar Generator • Ultra-Powerful Capacity – 1229Wh capacity and a robust 1500 wattage • Long-Lasting and Durable Design • Extended 5 year Warranty and Reliability • Exceptionally Fast Recharge	Check Price
	Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 1500 • 1534Wh and 1800W AC output power • Smart MPPT controller • Clean and Unlimited Solar Energy • Capable of powering a wide range of devices • 7 Output ports	Check Price
	BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200P • 2000Wh capacity, peak power of 4800W • Battery Management System (BMS) • Supports up to 700W of solar input and 500W of AC input • Boasts 17 outlets to accommodate all your devices • Two wireless charging pads • LiFePO4 battery offers 3500+ life cycles	Check Price
	ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA 2 Max, 2048Wh • High Power Capacity 2400w – Surge capacity of 3400W • Multiple charging methods • 6 AC outlets, 4 USB-A ports, 2 USB-C ports, 2 DC outputs, and a 12V car port • Battery Management System (BMS) to protect against overcharging, overheating, and short circuits • Portable and easy to carry around	Check Price

What is a Solar Generator and Why Do You Need One?

How Do Solar Generators Work?

Solar generators are charged using solar power by connecting solar panels that then charge the battery when they capture the sunlight.

The Power station can also be charged by plugging into a wall outlet or AC generator at home or at a campsite, hotel etc. 

The solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells. The DC electricity is then stored in the power stations battery storage system. When needed, the inverter installed in the solar powered generator converts the stored DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, through which its AC outlet can be used to power AC appliances and devices.

A solar generator is a reliable and sustainable way to generate power, as they do not produce harmful emissions or rely on finite resources like fossil fuels. They are also typically quieter and more lightweight than traditional generators, making them easier to transport and use in a variety of settings.

A solar-powered generator can be used to power a range of appliances and devices, including laptops, phones, and small appliances. They are a popular choice for off-grid living and emergency backup power situations.

What are the Benefits of Owning a Solar Generator?

There are several benefits of a solar generator over traditional gas-powered generators. They do not produce any harmful emissions, making them eco-friendly and safe to use indoors. Solar generators are also silent, portable, and require minimal maintenance. They can be used anywhere, even in remote locations, and can store energy for later use.

How Can You Choose the Best Solar Generator?

Choosing the best solar generator for your needs can be challenging, but considering factors such as power output, battery capacity, weight, and size can help you narrow the options. It’s also essential to determine whether you need a solar generator for home backup, camping, or emergencies. Factors such as solar input and the ability to charge from solar panels can also be essential in your decision-making process.

What Size Solar Generator Do You Need?

Determining the size of solar generator that you need will depend on your power needs and the specific applications that you will be using it for. The size of the generator is typically measured in watts, and it is important to choose a solar generator that has enough power to meet your needs.

To determine the size of solar generator that you need, it is helpful to make a list of the appliances and devices that you will be using with the solar generator and their wattage requirements. You should also consider any additional power needs that you may have, such as the ability to run multiple appliances at the same time or the need to power larger appliances like refrigerators or air conditioners.

Once you have a list of your power needs, you can use it to help determine the size of the solar generator that you need.

It is generally recommended to choose a solar generator that is slightly larger than your anticipated power needs to ensure that you have enough power available.

It is also important to consider the battery storage capacity of the generator, as this will determine how long it can power your appliances and devices.

Overall, choosing the right size solar generator will depend on your specific power needs and the appliances and devices that you will be using with it.

Solar Generators vs Power Stations: What’s the Difference?

Do You Need a Portable Power Station or a Solar Generator?

The terms “portable power station” and “solar generator” are often used interchangeably, but there are some subtle differences between the two. A portable solar power station is a compact device that stores electricity for on-the-go use. It can be charged through various sources like AC power outlets, car chargers, or solar panels. 

On the other hand, a solar generator specifically refers to a power station that primarily relies on solar panels for charging. While both options offer portable power, a solar generator emphasizes the use of solar energy as its primary source.

Can a Portable Solar Panel Charge a Solar Generator?

Yes, a portable solar panel can charge a solar generator by connecting the solar panel to the solar input port of the solar generator. It’s essential to ensure that the solar panel is compatible with the solar generator and that it produces sufficient solar charge, enough to power up the battery effectively.

How Much Power Output Do You Need?

The power output you need depends on the appliances and devices you need to power. It’s essential to determine your power needs before choosing a solar generator. A solar generator with a higher power output is suitable for powering appliances such as a portable fridge, while a solar generator with a lower power capacity is ideal for powering small devices such as phones and laptops.

Top 3 Benefits of a Solar-Powered Generator

Backup Power During Power Outages

A solar-powered generator can be an excellent backup power source during power outages, ensuring that essential appliances and devices can still be powered.

No Need for Fuel, Allowing for Eco-Friendly Energy

Solar-powered generators do not require fuel, making them an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuel-powered generators. They are also silent and produce no harmful emissions, making them safe to use indoors.

Can Power Various Appliances and Devices

Solar generators can power various appliances and devices, making them versatile and convenient. From powering small appliances sich as your your phone to running a portable fridge or even your power tools, a solar generator can provide reliable power anywhere.

Solar Generators For Camping

A solar-powered generator is an excellent addition to your camping gear for camping trips, providing reliable and eco-friendly power for all your needs.

A portable solar generator is an absolute game-changer when it comes to camping gear. Imagine setting up your campsite in the wilderness, far away from any electrical outlets. With a portable solar generator, you have an abundant and renewable power source at your fingertips.

Fast solar charging of your phones, power up your lights, run small appliances, and even keep your mini-fridge cool—all with the energy harnessed from the sun. No more worrying about running out of batteries or being disconnected from the world. 

You dont need a large solar generator, just one that you can charge with 100-watt solar panels or 200W solar panels.  For this you need the best portable power station, top 3 would be in the 300wh to 1000wh category, such as the Bluetti EB3A, Jacker Explorer 300 or ECOFLOW River 2.

What are the Disadvantages of Solar Generators?

Solar generators have a number of advantages, but they also have a few potential disadvantages to consider.

One potential disadvantage is that they require sunlight to generate electricity, which means that they may not be able to produce power during periods of extended cloud cover or at night.

Solar generators also tend to be more expensive upfront than traditional generators, although they may save money in the long run due to their lower operating costs and the fact that they do not require the purchase of fuel.

Another potential disadvantage of solar generators is that they rely on batteries to store excess electricity, and these batteries can eventually wear out and need to be replaced. This can add to the overall cost of owning a solar generator.

Additionally, solar generators may not be suitable for certain applications or locations due to their size or power output limitations.

Overall, while solar generators have a number of advantages, it is important to consider their potential disadvantages and whether they are the right choice for your specific power needs.

How Long will Batteries in a Solar Generator Last?

The life expectancy of the batteries in a solar generator will depend on a number of factors, including the type of battery being used, the depth of discharge (how much of the battery’s capacity is used before it is recharged), the frequency of use, and the operating and storage conditions.

Lead-acid batteries, typically have a life expectancy of 3-5 years when used in a deep-cycle application (such as in a solar generator). However, if the battery is well-maintained and not frequently discharged to a very low state, it may last longer.

Lithium-ion batteries, which are becoming more common in solar generators, can last up to 10 years or more if properly maintained.

What Are The Top Solar Generators on the Market?

Following are our picks for the best solar power generators to suit all needs.   Solar Generators suitable for RV, camping and boat trips to solar generators with enough wattage to provide backup power for your home appliances in the event of a power outage.

Conclusion

Solar generators are becoming increasingly popular due to their eco-friendliness, portability, and efficiency. Choosing the right, and best overall solar generator depends on your power needs and the intended use.

Solar Generator are among the best solar generators in 2023. Consider factors such as solar input, battery capacity, and weight when choosing the best solar generator for your needs.