The sun powers our world, and with the right portable solar panel, it can also power your outdoor adventures or home emergency set up. I’ve tested dozens of models from top brands like Bluetti, Jackery, Anker, Goal Zero, EcoFlow, and BioLite, and have come away impressed with their power generation potential.
Portable power stations are best for power on the go during camping, RV trips, or boating excursions. Small solar panels are also great for powering small-scale, off-grid projects like barns, sheds, tiny homes, or outdoor lights. Consider size, weight, efficiency, warranty, and price when comparing your portable solar panel options.
Portable solar panels aren’t all that smart. Whatever blast of sun they are getting will be transmitted directly as power to your power station. So before you purchase a portable solar panel, first look at your power station to see how much solar input it can handle. (This is typically found in very small font on the bottom of your power station).
Previously, I had recommended the Anker SOLIX 100W as my best value pick in the 100-watt category. That was in large part due to its built-in sundial, which is invaluable in maximizing the power generation potential of the best portable solar panels. Unfortunately, Anker has since removed the sundial feature from the updated panel.
Small solar panels are also great for powering small-scale, off-grid projects like barns, sheds, tiny homes, or outdoor lights. Consider size, weight, efficiency, warranty, and price when comparing your portable solar panel options. Small and portable solar panels are not suitable for powering whole homes.
There are two specs to check for when looking to see if your portable solar panel is compatible with your portable power station: power potential and connector/port compatibility. Portable solar panels aren’t all that smart. Whatever blast of sun they are getting will be transmitted directly as power to your power station.