The AllPowers R4000 portable power station promises a robust home backup solution, and this review delves into whether it delivers. We put this substantial unit through its paces, testing its capacity, charging speed, port variety, and ease of use. From its impressive power output capable of handling multiple high-power appliances to its thoughtful design features aimed at improving portability, we examine every aspect of the R4000. We also explore the complementary AllPowers SP039 solar panel to assess its contribution to the overall system’s charging capabilities.This in-depth review will cover the R4000’s physical characteristics, including its size and weight, as well as its user-friendly interface and companion app. We'll analyze the performance of its various ports, evaluate its charging speed via AC and solar power, and assess its real-world capacity and lifespan. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the AllPowers R4000, determining its suitability as a reliable and convenient home backup power source.
Pros And Cons
- Modern design with color LCD touchscreen.
- Easy to move despite its weight (99.2 lb) due to handles and wheels.
- Multiple ports: 12V car adapter, two 100W USB-C ports, four USB-A ports (two 12W, two 18W), 30A port, four 20A ports.
- LifePO4 battery rated for 3,500 charges (maintaining 80% capacity).
- Fast charging: 0-100% in 2 hours with 2000W input.
- Solar charging capability (up to 3000W combined with AC input, prioritizing solar).
- Usable capacity of 86.1% (higher than average for this size).
- Safety feature prevents complete battery drain.
- 3600W power handling with 6000W peak.
- Strong inverter performance demonstrated by powering numerous devices in a shed.
- Heavy (99.2 lb), making it less convenient for frequent relocation.
- Inverter shuts off at 5% battery remaining.
- Large size (71x70 inches) suitable for various mounting options (RV, deck, fence).
- Achieved 480W output in less-than-ideal conditions, suggesting higher output in better sunlight (potentially 500-540W).
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Design and Portability
The AllPowers R4000 boasts a sleek, modern design. It's noticeably large, however, and its nearly 100lb weight makes it less truly 'portable' than some competitors. Despite this, AllPowers has incorporated thoughtful features to ease transport.
Two top handles, coupled with comfortable orange gel padding, improve the carrying experience. A cleverly designed, retractable handle extending from the base, coupled with heavy-duty wheels in the rear and rubber stoppers in the front make maneuvering surprisingly easy, even over uneven terrain.
Ports and Connectivity
The R4000 offers a comprehensive array of ports to meet diverse charging needs. These include a 12V car adapter port (10A max), two 100W USB-C ports, four USB-A ports (two 12W, two 18W), and multiple AC outlets (one 30A, four 20A).
The rear panel provides access to AC input, an expansion port, and three solar panel inputs. This makes the station adaptable to various power sources and expandability.
User Interface and App
A full-color touchscreen provides a user-friendly interface, displaying battery level, toggles for DC and AC power, input levels, and Wi-Fi status. The screen's modern graphics are a welcome departure from some older power station displays.
A companion app offers additional controls, including language selection, frequency (50/60Hz), operating modes (stay-on, timed shutdown), buzzer control, backlight adjustment, and data logging. The app is compatible with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Performance and Battery Life
The R4000 utilizes a LifePO4 battery, rated for 80% capacity after 3,500 charges, offering a lifespan of over 10 years with daily use. It boasts a maximum charging speed of 2000W (0-100% in 2 hours) via AC, and simultaneous solar and AC charging is supported (3000W max, prioritizing solar power).
A real-world test yielded a usable capacity of 86.1%, surpassing many competitors. The inverter includes a safety feature to prevent complete battery drain.
Real-World Testing and Power Output
A test running various household appliances (lights, fan, router, smart devices, phone, laptop) drew only 250W. This demonstrates the R4000's efficiency for everyday needs. Even high-power appliances can easily be run.
Adding two 1500W electric heaters increased the load to nearly 2800W, leaving ample capacity for additional devices. This highlights the power station's suitability for home backup in power outages.
Solar Panel Compatibility
The review also includes the AllPowers SP039 600W solar panel, a large panel (71x70 inches) ideal for various mounting options (RV, deck, fence, etc.).
Testing yielded around 480W under less-than-ideal weather conditions, suggesting a potential output of 500-540W on a sunny day. This would significantly supplement the R4000's charging capabilities.
Conclusion
The AllPowers R4000 is a high-capacity portable power station that delivers on its promise of a reliable home backup solution. The large capacity, combined with thoughtful design features (retractable handle, wheels), makes this unit powerful and convenient.
While the weight is a consideration, its performance, extensive port selection, and user-friendly interface outweigh this for many. The inclusion of a useful app further enhances its practicality. While not cheap, for those needing a robust home backup power solution, the AllPowers R4000 is a top contender.