This review pits two budget solar generator setups against each other: a $500 system and a $250 system. We delve into the components of each, detailing the solar panels, power stations, and accessories included. The testing process covers a range of power consumption scenarios, from low-wattage devices like phones and laptops to higher-demand appliances such as refrigerators, microwaves, and even a space heater. This comparative analysis reveals the strengths and limitations of each system, highlighting performance differences under varying loads and charging conditions.The results showcase a significant disparity in power handling capabilities and runtime between the two setups. While both systems prove functional, the $500 system demonstrates superior performance, offering substantially longer runtimes and the capacity to power more demanding devices. This review aims to provide readers with a clear understanding of the value proposition of each setup, empowering them to make an informed decision based on their specific power needs and budget constraints.
Pros And Cons
- Handles 200 Watts of solar panels.
- Includes all necessary charging cables (solar adapter cable included).
- Has three USB ports (two USB-C), two AC outlets.
- Can handle solar charging and AC charging simultaneously.
- Can charge from grid power alone.
- Includes a car charging cable.
- UPS feature seamlessly switches between battery and grid power.
- Relatively quiet operation.
- 28-volt input limit; cannot handle two 22-volt solar panels connected in series.
- Overloaded when attempting to power high-wattage devices (AC unit, microwave, blender).
- 700-watt continuous power rating; exceeded during testing with space heater and other high-wattage devices.
Read more: OUKITEL P2001 PLUS Review: Best Budget Portable Power Station?
Unboxing and Components: The $500 Solar Generator System
The $500 setup began with unboxing two cheap solar panels ($119 total), boasting a 15-amp series fuse rating. This feature eliminated the need for additional solar fuses, a cost-saving measure. Thankfully, the panels arrived undamaged despite some box damage.
Next, I unpacked the accessories crucial for system integration. These added approximately $42 to the total cost and included a solar extension cable for increased placement flexibility and a pair of branch connectors for parallel panel connection.
Finally, the core component: the Blue EDI AC50B power station ($350). It was selected for its excellent value within the budget, capable of handling 200W of solar panels, and offering a good-sized battery and power output.
Solar Panel Connection: Series vs. Parallel
Initially, I attempted a series connection of the solar panels, a common approach. However, this yielded a combined voltage of 44V, exceeding the power station's 28V input limit. This could have damaged the system.
To avoid damage, I opted for a parallel connection using the branch connectors. This method maintained the individual panel voltage (around 21V), ensuring compatibility with the power station.
The parallel connection allowed safe charging with both panels, achieving an estimated charging rate of 133W. This is critical for understanding safe and efficient solar panel integration.
Charging Performance and Capabilities
After an hour of solar charging (with some shade), the power station increased from 59% to 90% charge. Simultaneous solar and AC charging is possible; AC charging added 274W while solar output dropped to 6W due to shading.
The power station can also charge solely from grid power (275W). Car charging is supported via a 12V socket.
Once fully charged, I tested the power station's capabilities, starting with low-wattage devices and incrementally increasing power consumption.
Power Output Test: What the $500 Setup Can (and Can't) Run
The power station performed well with multiple low-wattage USB and AC devices simultaneously (99W total). It easily powered a tower fan (66W), Wi-Fi router (estimated 40 hours), and a TV (160W).
Even a refrigerator (around 100W) ran for an estimated 3.8 hours. Though fridge run times are notoriously variable, this suggests a practical runtime of about 5-5.5 hours on battery alone.
Interestingly, even with charging simultaneous to running the fridge, the power station seamlessly switched from battery to grid power (UPS feature) without device interruption.
High-Wattage Device Testing and Overload
A 500W space heater initially surprised by exceeding its continuous power rating (700W). It spiked to 800W briefly.
An electric burner (initially 700W, then increased) also worked, though higher heat settings created significant heat. The 1200W window AC unit triggered an overload and fault alert on the power station after some time, requiring a reset.
The microwave test also showed intermittent shutdowns, illustrating the limitations of the power station's capacity under high load.
Blender Test and Final Thoughts
The blender test proved too demanding, resulting in another overload. The high-wattage space heater ran at 700W, suggesting a self-imposed power limit to protect the device.
The $500 setup powered almost everything tested, exceeding expectations. The $250 setup, with a 300W continuous rating and 600W surge, had noticeable limitations.
The $500 setup boasts double the solar panels, nearly double the battery capacity, and significantly extended runtimes. Both systems are viable but offer differing capacity levels.
Conclusion: Which Setup Is Best?
The $500 solar generator setup significantly outperforms the $250 option in terms of power handling capacity and battery life. While the $250 setup works well for lower-wattage devices, the $500 setup offers substantially increased flexibility and runtime.
The additional cost for the $500 setup is justified by the near doubling of solar panel wattage, battery capacity (watthours), and overall power output capabilities. The ability to run more and higher wattage devices for extended periods makes the $500 investment a worthwhile upgrade for users demanding more sustained power.
Ultimately, the choice depends on individual needs and budget. If you prioritize higher power handling and extended runtime, the $500 system is the clear winner. But for basic power needs, the $250 system is a more economical option