A power station could be an excellent solution for someone who finds setting up the solar panel with a mounted flexible solar panel, lithium batteries, and other necessities overwhelming. It is also perfect for anyone seeking backup power that's not too heavy, complicated, or expensive.
Power stations are built for convenience, thanks to their ultra-portability and simple, plug-and-play technology. They come fitted with AC outlets, DC sockets, and USB ports. Usually, they have 12V outputjust enough to power a handful of appliances on day trips or short camping trips.
If you're planning to buy a power station soon, this quick buying guide can be a great resource to facilitate your decision-making:
Choosing the Best Power Station
While many excellent power stations are available in the market, not all are guaranteed to be suitable for your power needs. Knowing your power requirements should be your first consideration before buying a power station.
List the appliances you want your power station to run and determine their amp hours and wattage requirements. Understanding the wattage requirements could be crucial if you plan to use the power station as your primary energy source instead of just a backup.
Other important factors include the number of ports, charging time, outlet types, life cycles and protection features. Get the understanding of these right, and you are set to use your power station effectively. After securing these aspects, you can consider your personal preferences weight, accessories, and extra features like LED lights and LCDs, etc.
Now that we have covered some essentials, here is a rundown of some popular power stations.
EcoFlow Delta Power Station 1800W
Pros: With a modern appearance and unrivalled performance, this EcoFlow Delta Power Station offers plenty of output to keep your campsite nicely powered up. It's fitted with 4 AC ports, 4 USB-A ports, 2 USB-C ports, and a 12V output so you can run up to 11 devices simultaneously. Think that's all? Wait until you see how fast it charges. You can get up to 80% in just one hour via mains and 4 hours using a 400W solar!
Cons: The EcoFlow Delta's top-tier quality comes at a high price, and since it's highly preferred, getting stocks can be challenging.
Goal Zero Yeti 500X
Pros: The Goal Zero Yeti 500X Power Station is all about versatility. For a mid-range price, you get a handy power pack equipped with various outlets, including 2 DC ports, 2 USB-A sockets, 1 AC outlet, and 3 USB-C outputs. Best of all, the Goal Zero Yeti has a built-in MPPT controller for direct solar power charging.
Cons: At 80% charge, this Goal Zero Yeti power station lasts for about 500 cycles only. It also doesn't come with essential power station accessories like cables.
AIMTOM PowerPal X
Pros: On a budget? The AIMTOM PowerPal X is perfect for you. Retailing for $250, it has an integrated MPPT solar charge controller, 3 DC outputs, 3 USB outlets, an AC socket, and LED lights in front. Not bad for a power station under $500!
While it's suited for short day trips with only 155 watt-hours, this is a decent pick with all the essential ports displayed.
Cons: This power station is likely suitable for a day only and needs a US-to-AU adaptor if you intend to use the AC output.
iTechWorld ITECH500P
Pros: Aussie-made and highly portable, the iTechWorld ITECH500P power station weighs only 5.8kgs, perfect for bringing to campsites or 4WD adventures. It offers 500W continuous power and a 750W maximum surge limit to power mid-sized appliances like mini cookware efficiently. The design features a convenient LCD screen, power buttons, an AC output, DC output, and three USB ports.
Cons: One thing to note about the iTechWorld power station is its fan, which can get loud during use. Also, you cannot plug in AC appliances while charging.
Bluetti AC200P
Pros: Keeping up with modern technology, the best thing about the Bluetti AC200P power station is that it's LiFEPO4-based. It ticks off all qualities of a great power stationmultiple sockets, fast charging, increased capacity, and up to 3,500 charge cycles. On top of this, it's one of the first power stations to have a coloured, touch-screen LCD interface and wireless QC for mobile phones.
Cons: The only thing missing in the Bluetti power station is a Wi-Fi connection, which would have made it even more useful.
Jackery Explorer 1500
Pros: Jackery is a well-known name when it comes to quality power stations. In particular, the Jackery Explorer 1500 model boasts a fast-charging rate and a bigger battery inverter. It's one of the brand's best-sellers and is also backed by excellent customer support.
Cons: This Jackery power station is based on a standard lithium-ion battery and has fewer charge cycles. Like the Bluetti AC200P, it also doesn't have a Wi-Fi connection.
Have an idea which power station to get yet? Here at Outbax, we also have a range of reliable power stations you can check out if you want more options. We have a variety of LiFEPO4-supported Hyundai Power Stations, as well as power station accessories such as jump starters and carry bags.
