Mini Solar Inverter Set Review: Budget-Friendly Power Solution?

This review dives into a budget-friendly mini solar inverter set, perfect for those seeking a low-cost, reliable backup power solution. We put the entire system through its paces, examining each component individually and then testing the integrated setup under real-world conditions. From a 12-watt tubular lead-acid battery and a 50-watt monoblock solar panel to the core 12-watt DC inverter, we assess performance, durability, and value for money. The price point of this entire system comes in under ₹4000, a significant draw for those on a tight budget.This comprehensive review covers setup, charging times, load testing with multiple devices (including a TV, phone charger, and lights), and overall performance. We analyze the pros and cons of each component and the integrated system, highlighting key features like the inverter's build quality, the panel's efficiency, and the battery's claimed longevity. Ultimately, we determine whether this mini solar inverter set truly delivers a practical and affordable power solution for low-power household needs.

Pros And Cons

Smartron 50 Watt Monoblock Solar Panel
  • Good quality.
  • Lifetime warranty.
  • Charges battery well.
  • Has black cells.
Tech Supreme 12 Watt DC Converter
  • Successfully runs TV, fan, and lights.
  • Charges mobile phones.
  • Has power on/off button and overload indication.
  • Features two USB ports.
  • Premium quality.
  • Includes air ventilation.
12 Watt Lead Acid Battery (25 Amperes)
  • Provides good backup.
  • Comes with a one-year guarantee.
  • Is a tubular battery.

Read more: OUKITEL P2001 PLUS Review: Best Budget Portable Power Station?

Battery Specs and Price

The review starts with a 12-watt, 25-ampere lead-acid tubular battery boasting a one-year warranty. The reviewer claims it offers decent backup power and purchased it online for ₹1500. A link to the product is promised in the description.

Close-up shot of the 12-watt, 25-ampere lead-acid tubular battery.
Close-up shot of the 12-watt, 25-ampere lead-acid tubular battery.

Tubular batteries are known for their durability and longevity compared to other lead-acid types. The price point of ₹1500 seems competitive, especially considering the claimed warranty. It's important to cross-reference this price with other online retailers for comparison.

Screenshot showing the online price of the battery.
Screenshot showing the online price of the battery.

Solar Panel Details and Cost

A 50-watt Smartron monoblock solar panel is showcased, highlighted for its claimed good quality and lifetime warranty. The panel features black cells and efficiently charges the battery. The reviewer claims to have purchased this online for ₹1500 as well.

The 50-watt Smartron monoblock solar panel.
The 50-watt Smartron monoblock solar panel.

Monoblock solar panels are known for their efficiency and durability, making the lifetime warranty a compelling feature. Again, verifying the ₹1500 price on other platforms is recommended before purchase.

Screenshot displaying the online price of the solar panel.
Screenshot displaying the online price of the solar panel.

Inverter Features and Performance

The core of the system is a 12-watt DC converter from Tech Supreme, described as a compact yet effective inverter capable of powering a TV, fan, lights, and mobile charging. It includes an on/off switch, overload indicator, and two USB ports along with air ventilation.

The Tech Supreme 12-watt DC converter.
The Tech Supreme 12-watt DC converter.

The reviewer emphasizes the premium build quality and the inclusion of two 100-watt sockets. The presence of air ventilation suggests good heat management which is crucial for inverter longevity.

Close-up shot highlighting the on/off switch, USB ports, and overload indicator.
Close-up shot highlighting the on/off switch, USB ports, and overload indicator.

Load Test Results

A load test demonstrates the inverter's capabilities. The reviewer successfully runs a TV, charges a mobile phone simultaneously, and adds a 100-watt light without issue. The reviewer suggests that additional devices, like fans, could also be powered.

The TV connected to the inverter and powered on.
The TV connected to the inverter and powered on.

The successful operation of the TV, mobile charger, and 100-watt light simultaneously indicates a practical power output exceeding expectations for a small inverter. This demonstrates the inverter's ability to handle multiple devices.

The inverter running with TV, mobile charger and light simultaneously.
The inverter running with TV, mobile charger and light simultaneously.

Solar Charging Test

A solar charging test is conducted under bright sunlight. The panel charges the battery at 2 amperes, with the reviewer estimating a full charge in 4-5 hours. The reviewer mentions that using thicker wiring could improve charging speed up to 2.5 amperes.

The solar panel connected and charging the battery.
The solar panel connected and charging the battery.

The 2-ampere charging rate is reasonable for the small battery capacity. The discussion of thicker wiring highlights a practical consideration for maximizing charging efficiency.

The display showing the charging rate of 2 amperes.
The display showing the charging rate of 2 amperes.

Conclusion and Overall Assessment

The complete setup—inverter, battery, and solar panel—costs ₹3500, offering a budget-friendly solution for low-power household needs. The system successfully powered a TV, lights, and charged a mobile phone simultaneously.

Summary of the total cost of the set.
Summary of the total cost of the set.

This mini solar inverter set provides a viable option for individuals with limited electricity access or those looking for a low-cost backup power source. The ability to run several devices concurrently is a significant advantage at this price point, though it's important to consider the limitations imposed by the low wattage of the system.

The reviewer summarizing the set's performance and value.
The reviewer summarizing the set's performance and value.