ShareWe may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more The best solar generators aren't afraid of the elements. Stan HoraczekSolar generators can make your life a little easier on a good day or save you on a bad day. These powerful power packs offer huge battery capacity that can fuel large devices and even appliances in a pinch. Theyre great in an emergency, but theyre also essential tailgating and camping equipment. We chose the Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus as our best overall pick, but there are tons of options out there on the market to meet your needs.Best overall: Jackery Explorer 2000 PlusStill great: Jackery Explorer 2000 ProBest high-capacity: Jackery Explorer 3000 ProBest for frequent use: Anker 767 Portable Power Station Solar GeneratorBest for camping: Goal Zero Yeti 1000 CoreBest for off-grid living: Bluetti AC200Fastest charging: EcoFlow Delta 2 MaxBest for homes: EcoFlow Delta ProBest budget: Jackery Explorer 300How we chose the best solar generatorsAs an avid outdoorsman, Ive had the opportunity to test an extremely wide range of outdoor gear, including mobile and off-grid electrification equipment like solar-powered generators, as well as inverter and dual-fuel generators. These became particularly essential when the pandemic forced my travels to become domestic rather than international, which prompted me to outfit a van for long-term road-tripping.To bring my work along for the ride, I needed a constant power source to charge my laptop, a portable fridge, lighting, and a myriad of devices and tools even the best electric bikes. As a result, Ive tried all the leading portable power stations (and plenty that arent leading, too), so I know precisely what separates the best from the blah. Ive written all about it (and other outdoor tech) for publications, including the Daily Beast, Thrillist, the Manual, and more. There were cases when my own opinion resulted in a tie, and I, therefore, looked to reviews from actual customers to determine which solar generators delivered the most satisfaction to the most users.When to buy a Solar GeneratorIf youre thinking about dropping big money on a solar generator, consider shopping on big shopping holidays like Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday. These are expensive devices and they experience their largest discounts around those times.The best solar generators: Reviews & RecommendationsThe solar generators on this list span a wide range of budgets, from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. They span several use cases, from camping to a backup for your home. Only you know all the factors that make one of these the best solar generator for you, but we think that one of these will get the job done.Best overallProsCharges quicklyVery high output that can run power-hungry devicesBuilt-in wheels and handleClear displayFour AC outletsExpandable with extra batteriesLong life batteriesConsHeavySlightly less capacity than our previous pickWhy it made the cut: It offers just about everything from our previous best overall pick with the added benefits of LiFePO4 battery power.SpecsStorage capacity: 2,042.8Wh (expandable up to 24,000Wh)Output capacity: 6,000wDimensions: 18.6 x 14.7 x 14.1 inchesWeight: 61 poundsPrice: $1,999As new solar generators hit the market, many come toting new lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries instead of the familiar lithium-ion batteries that came before. LiFePO4 offers a few advantages, including a much longer lifespan as you charge and discharge them. Theyre also safer and often faster to charge. They do typically add some weight, however. Just about all of those modifiers apply here in the form of the Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus. The Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus can power current-hungry devices at up to 6000w, so even if you want to power a welder, you can. The battery will only last you about a half hour doing this (we tried it), but it does work, and thats more than many other models can say. I also got to test the Explorer 2000 Plus during a real power outage. It kept our router running for several hours to maintain connectivity. This model has 2kWh of storage built-in, but you can expand that capacity with extra external daisy-chained batteries. It gives a total max storage of up to 24kWhenough for a serious off-grid job. The optional solar panels charge the battery quickly and efficiently. Jackery claims roughly two hours of charging time via the optional solar panels, and I found it took more like 2.5 hours, but that includes battling some passing clouds. With two straight hours of direct sun, it could likely get the job done. At 61 pounds, this is considerably heavier than the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro, which weighs nearly 20 pounds less. But, the integrated wheels, handle, and chunky grips to either side of the box make it very easy to lug around. Everyone in my family could easily set it in the back of my wifes Honda Civic. The switch to LiFePo4 also means that this unit will last a long time before the battery degrades beyond its usable range. The company claims it will take 4,000 cycles before the battery life degrades to 70 percent. We obviously havent had time to test that yet, but that is the nature of LiFePo4, so it will almost certainly last longer than a lithium-ion model at least. Still great: Jackery Explorer 2000 ProThe Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro is an incredible value for anyone who regularly needs lots of sustainable power.ProsFast charging and outstanding capacityDurable and easy to usePlenty of portsCan connect to six 200W solar panelsConsHeavy for its sizeWhy it made the cut: This Jackery solar generator delivers the best blend of capacity, input/output capability, portability, and durability.SpecsStorage capacity: 2,160WhInput capacity: 1,200WOutput capacity: 2,200W (4,400W surge)Dimensions: 15.1 x 10.5 x 12.1 inchesWeight: 43 lbsPrice: $2,498The biggest portable power station from Jackery, a leading solar generator manufacturer, the Explorer 2000 Pro offers a tremendous 2,160 watt-hours of power, making it capable of charging a full camping setup for a few days. When plugged into six 200W solar panels, an upgrade over the four-panel setup available on the Jackery Explorer 1500, you can fully charge this portable power station in just 2-2.5 hours. Thats less than half the time of the smaller model.On top of all that, its extremely user-friendly. Numerous output ports ensure that you can plug in a wide range of devices and electrical equipment. Its functions are highly intuitive, and the digital display is easy to understand. Like other Jackery generators, its incredibly durable, too. The one potential downside is its weight: At 43 pounds, its a bit heavy for its size. Even so, for all the power you can store, and the rapid-charging time, the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro will keep the lights on wherever you need power.For more on the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro, check out our full review.Best high-capacityDespite all its power, the Jackery Explorer 3000 and its solar panels are relatively compact.ProsAmple power storage for long trips or outagesSturdy handles and wheels make it easy to moveSmooth design makes it easy to load and unloadHigh peak output for power-intensive tasksLots of ports for connectivityCons200W solar panels can be klunkyRelatively priceySpecsStorage capacity: 3,024WhOutput capacity: 3,000WDimensions: 18.6 x 14.1 x 14.7 inchesWeight: 63.9 poundsPrice: $2,799This is the big sibling to our best overall pick. Inside the Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro, youll find 3,024Wh of power storage, which is enough to power even large devices for extended periods of time. It can charge a high-end smartphone more than 100 times on a single charge. It can also power full-on appliances in an RV or emergency situation. Despite its large capacity, we learned firsthand that the Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro is relatively easy to move around. Sturdy handles molded into its case make it easy to pick up, while an extending handle and wheels make it easy to roll around at the campsite or any other location. It can charge in less than three hours from a standard outlet or, under optimal conditions with the 200W solar panels, it can fill up as quickly as eight hours. That full solar array can get large and unwieldy, but a smaller setup can still provide ample charging if you dont need to max out the capacity daily. This portable power station offers the best of everything we loved about the Explorer 2000 Pro, theres just more of it. When youre living the van life, powering an RV, or trying to ride out a power outage, more is definitely better if you can justify the extra cost.The Anker Power Station 767 solar generators high capacity and fast charging make this long-lasting battery a solid everyday driver.ProsCharges up to 80% in less than two hoursSolid output and storage capacityOptional battery pack doubles capacityLiFePO4 batteries survive more charge cycles than traditional modelsPlenty of portsBuilt-in handle and wheels for transportConsHeavy for its capacityNo USB-C in for chargingWhy it made the cut: High capacity and fast charging make this long-lasting battery a solid everyday driver.SpecsStorage capacity: 2,048WhOutput capacity: 2,400WDimensions: 20.67 x 9.84 x 15.55 inchesWeight: 67.3 poundsPrice: $1,999Anker has equipped its massive portable power station with LiFePO4 batteries, which stand up much better to repeat charging and discharging over the long term than common lithium-ion cells. Anker claims it can charge and discharge up to 3,000 times before it reaches 80% battery health compared to 500 in a similar lithium-ion setup. While I havent had the chance to run it through 3,000 cycles, LiFePO4 batteries have a well-earned reputation for longevity.Regarding overall performance, the Anker 767 does everything youd want a unit with these specs to do. The bad weather has given me [Executive Gear Editor Stan Horaczek] ample chances, unfortunately, to test it in real-world situations.The built-in battery offers a 2048Wh capacity and pumps out up to 2,400W. It does so through four standard AC outlets, an RV outlet, two 120W car outlets, two 12W USB-A ports, and three 100W USB-C ports.I used it during a blackout to keep our Wi-Fi running while charging my familys devices. Filling a phone from zero barely makes a dent in the power stations capacity, and it ran the router for several hours with plenty of juice left.In another instance, it powered our small meat freezer for four hours before the power came back on with some juice still left in the tank. It does what it promises.There are a few nice extra touches as well. Built-in wheels and an extendable handle allow it to roll like carry-on luggage. Unfortunately, those are necessary inclusions because it weighs a hefty 67.3 pounds. Its manageable but definitely heavy compared to its competition.The Anker 767 is compatible with the companys 200W solar panels, which fold up for easy transportation. I mostly charged the unit through my homes AC power, a surprisingly quick process. The 767 Portable Power Station can go from flat to more than 80% charge in less than a half hour with sufficient power. It takes about two hours to get it fully juiced.Anker also offers a mobile app that connects to the power station via Bluetooth if you want to control it without actually going over and touching it.Best for camping: Goal Zero Yeti 1000ProsHighly portableIncredible durabilityRapid recharge ratePlenty of plugsConsExpensive for its size/capacityWhy it made the cut: Thanks to its outstanding portability, high storage capacity, and Yetis famous durability, the Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core is great for packing along for camping or van-living.SpecsStorage capacity: 983WhInput capacity: 600WOutput capacity: 1,200W (2,400W surge)Dimensions: 9.86 x 15.25 x 10.23 inchesWeight: 31.68 lbsPrice: $1,198.95Yeti is long-renowned for making some of the best outdoor gear money can buy, so when the company launched its Goal Zero line of solar generators, it was no surprise that they turned out to be awesome. While the whole line is great, the 1000 Core models balance between capacity and portability makes it perfect for taking on the road and going camping.While the 1000 Core has a third less capacity than our top pick, it charges up faster, making it a great option for rapid solar replenishment. That said, its capacity is no slouch, offering 82 phone charges, 20 for a laptop, or upwards of 15 hours for a portable fridge (depending on wattage). Suffice to say, its more than capable of powering your basic camping gear.Beyond its charging capabilities, the Goal Zero 1000 Core excels at camping thanks to its hearty build quality. Built super toughlike pretty much everything Yeti makesits exterior shell provides solid protection.The biggest issue it presents is the cost. Like pretty much everything Yeti produces, its price tag isnt small. While there are other 1000-level solar generators for less, this one offers a great balance of power storage and portability.For more on the Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core, check out our full review.Best for off-grid living: Bluetti AC200ProsMassive capacityDaisy-chain capabilityLightning-fast input capacity30A RV plug and two wireless charging padsSurprisingly affordable for what it offersConsPretty heavyFan can get loud, especially in hot weatherWhy it made the cut: Thanks to its high solo capacity and ability to daisy-chain with additional batteries, the Bluetti AC200 Max is perfect for bringing power off the grid.SpecsStorage capacity: 2,048Wh standalone, expandable up to 8,192WhInput capacity: 1,400WOutput capacity: 2,200W (4,800W surge)Dimensions: 16.5 x 11 x 15.2 inchesWeight: 61.9 lbsPrice: $1,999Youll be hard-pressed to find a solar generator better suited for living off the grid for an extended period than the Bluetti AC200 Max. It boasts a substantial 2,048Wh capacity, allowing you to power your whole life off it longer than most portable generators. Even better, you can daisy-chain multiple Bluetti batteries, expanding its capacity to a massive 8.192Wh. Thats flat-out enormous and translates into the ability to power a full-sized fridge for over a day or several hours of air conditioning. For the more modest needs of people who are used to living off a generator, it will last for a very long time.At the same time, the AC200 Max has an outstanding input capacity of 1,400W. That means you can plug in a pretty hefty array of solar panels to replenish its stores quickly. This allows you to keep your off-grid setup going with little to no interruption. It also features some specialty charging options, including a 30A plug, which lets you plug it directly into an RV, and multiple wireless charging pads for smaller devices.ProsVery fast charging over solar or mainsRelatively compactNot as heavy as we might have expectedLong-lasting batteriesScalable by connecting two extra batteriesAdvanced temperature management for safetyConsSolar panels are pricyStill heavier than non-LiFePo4 modelsWhy it made the cut: Whether its solar or AC power, you can get 80% of a charge in an hour or less. SpecsStorage capacity: 2048Wh (expandable to 6,000Wh)Output capacity: 3,400WDimensions: 19.8 x 9.5 x 12.01Weight: 50.71 lbsPrice: $2,000Plug this 2048Wh battery pack into up to 1,000 watts of solar panels, and you can get an 80 percent charge in just 43 minutes. Thats blisteringly fast compared to other models. Plug the unit into the wall and youll go from zero to 80 percent in just 1.1 hours, which is still fairly speedy when it comes to soaking up electricity. That extra time can make a huge difference if you only have limited opportunities to top off your solar generator. We managed to get above 80 percent in just under an hour without perfect sun conditions here in Upstate New York. In addition to its quick charging skills, the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max offers an impressive array of connectivity, including six AC outlets, which is more than many larger models offer. Thats good if you want to run many devices or chargers simultaneously. If you need more capacity, you can add two extra external batteries to give it a total storage of 6Wh. At 51 pounds, this isnt the lightest solar generator in its category, but like the other EcoFlow generators, it has chunky handles on top that make it easy to lug around. Everyone in my family could easily get it in and out of the back of our Honda CR-V without issue. Though, it doesnt have wheels, so you will have to actually carry it around or put it on a cart. Ultimately, this feels like a very high-end device. The fast charging is wonderful. The display is clear and relatively bright (though it could be brighter). And it offers a wide array of connectivity. Best for homes: EcoFlow Delta ProThe Big BackupEcoFlow ProsEnormous capacityDaisy-chain capability30A RV plugLightning-fast input capacityWi-Fi and Smartphone connectivityConsVery heavyExpensiveWhy it made the cut: The EcoFlow Delta Pro delivers the standalone and expandable power capacity necessary to power your entire home.SpecsStorage capacity: 3,600Wh standalone, expandable up to 25,000WhInput capacity: 6,500WOutput capacity: 3,600W (7,200W surge)Dimensions: 25 x 11.2 x 16.4 inchesWeight: 99 lbsPrice: $3,699If youre looking for the best solar generator for home backup in the event of a power outage, the EcoFlow Delta Pro stands apart from the pack, thanks to an unrivaled power and output capacity. The Delta Pro alone packs a 3,600Wh wallop, and you can expand that to 25,000Wh by chaining it to extra EcoFlow batteries and generators. Thats a ton of power and it has the substantial output capacity necessary to power an entire house worth of electronics when you need it to.The Delta Pro also offers a companion app for iOS and Android that allows you to monitor energy usage, customize its operation, and monitor and manage a number of other elements.While its not overly large for what it does, the Delta Pro is a heavy piece of equipment. It has wheels, so it is technically portable, but this is meant to be put down in a home or other semi-permanent site. Given its size and power, its also a much more expensive device, especially if youre springing for the add-ons. As the best solar power generator to provide backup power for your entire home, however, its worth every penny.Best budget: Jackery Explorer 300Low Price, Big PowerThe Jackery Explorer 300 offers lots of power in a little, easy-to-lug package.ProsAffordableDurablePortableReasonable capacityConsNo flashlightSlower input capacityWhy it made the cut: With its reasonable capacity, compact size, and solid build quality at a low price, the Jackery Explorer 300 is a great budget pick.SpecsStorage capacity: 293WhInput capacity: 90WOutput capacity: 300W (500W surge)Dimensions: 9.1 x 5.2 x 7.8 inWeight: 7.1 lbsPrice: $250Though it isnt quite as impressive as our top picks for best overall and best high-capacity, Jackerys smaller Explorer 300 solar generator is super compact and lightweight with a decent power capacity for its price. Less a mobile power station than an upscale power bank, the 7-pound Jackery Explorer 300 provides plenty of portable recharges for your devices when youre camping, on a job site, driving, or just need some power and dont have convenient access to an outlet. Its modest 293Wh capacity isnt huge, but its enough to provide 31 phone charges, 15 for a camera, 6 for the average drone, 2.5 for a laptop, or a few hours of operation for a minifridge or TV. A built-in flashlight would have upped its camping game somewhat, but at $300 (and often considerably less if you catch it discounted), this highly portable little power station does a lot for a little.We tested this portable power station for several months, and it came in handy numerous times, especially during the winter when power outages abound. At one point, we had it powering two phones, a MacBook, and a small light. The built-in handle makes it very easy to lug around. It feels like carrying a lunch box. The screen is easy to read, and the whole package seems fairly durable. Our review unit hasnt taken any dramatic tumbles yet, but it has gotten banged around in car trunks, duffle bags, and other less-than-luxurious accommodations with no issues. If you catch one of these on sale, get it and stick it in a cabinet. Youll be extremely glad to have it around when the need arises. What to consider before buying the best solar generatorsOver the past few years, solar generators have exploded onto the market. There are now dozens of different brands that largely look more or less the same at a glance. The fact is there are only a few standouts amidst a sea of knockoffs. Heres what to look for to ensure youre getting a great one:How much power can it store?A portable solar generator comes in an extremely wide range of sizes, but a generators size doesnt automatically make it capable of storing a lot of power. In fact, most are disappointingly limited and unable to store much more juice than a portable charger.To properly check a generators storage, you must look at its capacity, measured in watt-hours (Wh). One watt-hour is the equivalent of 1 watt flowing over the course of an hour. The best solar generators offer capacities of several hundred and sometimes several thousand watt-hours. That doesnt mean, however, that it will provide power for several hundred or several thousand hours. Any generator will ultimately last a different amount of time, depending on whats plugged into it.Its easy to predict how long a generator will last when you use it to power one thing. For example, if you were to power a 100-watt bulb using a power station with a capacity of 500 watt-hours, it would stay lit for five continuous hours. Add a portable fridge that requires 50 watts per hour, your phone which uses 18, a mini-fan that uses three you get the picture. The more capacity, the better.Charging capabilityNo solar generator will hold a charge forever, so you want one capable of charging as quickly and easily as possible. This is where we put the renewable into renewable energy.All of the power stations included in this roundup can be charged by connecting them to solar panels (hence the designation solar generators). Still, you also want to look for the ability to charge via other sources like wall outlets and your vehicles 12-volt plug. This ensures that you can charge up whether youre off-grid in the sun, plugged in while preparing at home, or using your dash socket on the go.You must also monitor a models charging input capacity, measured in watts (W). For example, a solar-powered generator with a max input of 100W can take in a continuous flow of up to 100 watts, which is about the minimum that youll reasonably want to look for. Most of the generators below have input capacities of at least a few hundred watts when charging via solar, so a few 50- to 200-watt solar panels will max them out.Output capabilitySolar generators need to keep the power coming in and going out. The best solar generators can simultaneously charge all your intended devices via whatever plugs are necessary.Any portable power station worth your money will have a high output capacity so you can charge many devices, even if they require a lot of juice. A generators maximum output should be much higher than its max input. While a particular model might only be capable of taking in a few hundred watts at any given moment, it will usually put out exponentially more. At a minimum, youll want a generator that can put out 300 watts at a time, though youll want at least 500 for larger tasks.The best solar generators should also offer a variety of output plugs, including AC outlets, USB-A, USB-C, and even 12-volt DC outlets like the one in your vehicle dash. This ensures you can charge several devices simultaneously regardless of their plug. The number of ports youll need will vary depending on how many devices you need to power, but it should have at least a couple of AC outlets and a few USB-A ports.PortabilityWhile portable battery sources have been around for a while now, over the past several decades, theyve been pretty heavy, unwieldy things. One of the most exciting aspects of the latest generation of solar generators is that theyve become much more physically compact.Suppose you plan on taking a generator camping or working it into a van conversion where every square inch matters; well, size and weight become major considerations. All of the products weve recommended are about the size of one or two shoeboxesthree at the most. The lightest is about the weight of a 24-pack of soda, while the heaviest is 100 pounds. Most fall somewhere between 30-60 pounds.If youre using your generator as a more or less stationary source of backup power at home, portability isnt a huge issue. Still, we generally recommend keeping weight and size in mind; You never know when youll need it for something other than a backup. (Plus, who wants to lug around something heavy and awkward if they dont have to?)Another consideration regarding portability involves the necessity for accessories, which can impact how easy it is to move and use your generator. Some generators, for example, require a lot of removable battery packs, which can be a hassle when youre on the go or packing a vehicle. All of the inclusions on our list require some accessoriesyou cant get solar power without connecting cables and solar panelsbut they work well with minimal add-ons.DurabilityAs with any product you expect to last, durability and all-around quality craftsmanship are essential. This is especially true if you plan on lugging your generator around on camping and road trips. Many subpar power stations are made from cheap components and flimsy plastic that doesnt feel like it will hold up under the rigors of the road.Durability isnt something you can determine by reading a spec sheet off the internet. Youve actually got to take the generator out, use it a bunch, and see how it holds up. Ive verified the durability of these recommendations via a combination of my own actual field tests and reviews culled from countless real product owners.Related: Best electric generatorsFAQsQ: What size solar generator should I get? Its easy to underestimate how much capacity you need. A 1,000 watt-hours might sound like a lot, but if youre going to power a converted van with a portable fridge, lights, and occasional phone and laptop top-off, that 1,000 watt-hours will go faster than you expect. I used a setup like this and know from personal experience that you should always overestimate how much power youll need. A generator with a capacity under 1,000Wh can keep electronics charged. A larger one with 1000-1500Wh should be the minimum for road trips where youll need it to last multiple days between full charges. For a house or worksite where you expect to use some serious energylike a full-sized refrigerator or power toolsyoure going to want to start looking at the biggest possible power stations that can be daisy-chained to external batteries.If you want to get precise, there is an equation:1. Estimate how many hours youll need to power various devices. For example, if you want to power two light bulbs for 2 hours: you need 4 hours of operation.2. Add up the total wattage necessary: the two bulbs are 60 watts each, so you need 120 watts.3. Multiply these together to find the total watt-hours needed: 4 x 120 = 480. So, in this case, youd need at least a 500Wh solar generator.That might sound like a lot for two lightbulbs, but remember that, in most situations, you wont really be powering 60-watt light bulbs for hours on end. Youll be charging phones and laptops for an hour here or there, cooling a fridge that kicks on and off every once in a while, using power tools in short bursts, and whatnot. Q: How many years will a solar generator last? Most modern generators are rated to last upwards of 25 years. The best-designed power stations are pretty sturdy, with few to no moving parts, so they should likely keep kicking for a long time, provided that you care for them properly. Ive been pretty rough with a few of mine, and they show no signs of stopping. Q: Can I run my house on solar power only? Yes and no. While its absolutely possible to power your house with solar power, youre unlikely to do so with a portable solar generator unless you use several at once while limiting your power usage. The largest of our recommendationsthe EcoFlow Delta Prowill come fairly close when bolstered with extra batteries. If the power goes out, youll be able to keep your fridge cold and use basic electronics for a couple of days without recharging. With quality solar panels, good sunlight, and smart energy usage, your power should theoretically go uninterrupted. Final thoughts on the best solar generatorsBest overall: Jackery Explorer 2000 PlusStill great: Jackery Explorer 2000 ProBest high-capacity: Jackery Explorer 3000 ProBest for frequent use: Anker 767 Portable Power Station Solar GeneratorBest for camping: Goal Zero Yeti 1000Best for off-grid living: Bluetti AC200 MaxFastest charging: EcoFlow Delta 2 MaxBest for homes: EcoFlow Delta ProBest budget: Jackery Explorer 300Were living in a golden age for portable solar generators. When I was a kid, and my family was playing around with solar gear while camping in the 90s, the technology couldnt charge many devices, so it wasnt all that practical.By contrast, the solar generators weve recommended here are incredibly useful. Ive relied on them to power my work and day-to-day needs while road-tripping nationwide. Theyre also great when the power goes out. When a windstorm cut the power at my house for a couple of days, I was still working, watching my stories, and keeping the lights on.We havent even scratched the surface in terms of the potential offered by portable, reliable, renewable, relatively affordable power. What we can do now is already incredible. The potential for what may come next, though, is truly mind-blowing.