This review dives into the performance and features of a budget-friendly portable power station, offering a compelling alternative to pricier options. Priced within the Php3,000-Php5,000 range, this power station stands out with its surprisingly large battery capacity, ensuring extended power for various devices. We put it to the test, subjecting it to rigorous usage scenarios including powering a TV, laptop, and even a ceiling light for extended periods. The results reveal impressive battery life far exceeding expectations for its price point.Beyond its impressive battery performance, we explore the included accessories, build quality, and ease of use. We examine its charging capabilities, both via wall outlet and solar panel (though with a caveat regarding solar charge controller compatibility). This in-depth review covers key features, highlighting both strengths and limitations, helping you determine if this power station is the right fit for your power needs and budget.
Pros And Cons
- Larger battery capacity compared to cheaper power stations (Php 3000-5000 range)
- Includes a cooling fan to prevent overheating even at maximum (60-watt) output
- Has a user manual and charger included
- Includes a solar panel (as part of purchase)
- Has a Smart Power display showing battery power and percentage
- Features LED lights, USB, and AC outlets
- 220-volt AC output
- Bright LED light suitable for use as a flashlight
- Relatively lightweight (around 1kg)
- Charging with a solar panel requires a back converter or solar charge controller because the port connects directly to the battery
- The charger is only a battery charger and does not have a built-in charge controller
- Maximum output power is only 300 watts, suitable for basic appliances but not high-power ones (washing machines, heaters)
- Difficult to charge via solar panel without additional equipment due to voltage mismatch (12-16V input vs 18V solar panel output)
Read more: OUKITEL P2001 PLUS Review: Best Budget Portable Power Station?
Battery Capacity and Package Contents
This portable power station boasts a significantly larger battery capacity than cheaper alternatives in the Php3,000-Php5,000 price range. This makes it a strong contender for those seeking extended power.
The package includes the power station itself, a user manual, and a charger. Unlike some competitors, it also includes a solar panel for charging flexibility.
The included 12V to 5A (60W) solar panel charger features an LED indicator to show charging status and incorporates a cooling fan to prevent overheating, even at maximum output.
Size, Design, and Features
While larger than some smaller power stations, its dimensions are suitable for portability. The black power station is longer than the smaller white model. This larger size also results in a heavier weight.
The power station has a convenient handle for carrying and displays battery power level with both a bar graph and percentage indicator. It also displays battery voltage and which ports are currently active.
Additional features include a side-mounted LED light, DC in/output, two 220-volt sockets, and regular 5-volt USB ports. The AC output is a modified sine wave.
Performance Tests and Battery Life
During testing with a 16-inch TV, the power station maintained a stable voltage and lasted for over 10 hours (dropping to 71% at 9:20 PM after starting at 11:22 AM).
A further test using a laptop and Wi-Fi simultaneously lasted approximately 9-10 hours before the battery depleted. This demonstrates good performance for multiple devices.
Finally, a 12-hour and 30-minute test powering a ceiling light further highlights its extensive battery life.
Charging Time and Overall Assessment
The 60-watt charger takes approximately 6-7 hours to fully charge the power station from 0% to 100%. This is reasonable given the substantial battery capacity.
This power station offers impressive battery life, outperforming cheaper alternatives. However, direct solar panel charging requires a separate solar charge controller due to voltage incompatibility.
It's ideal for basic appliances like lights, phone charging, and laptops, but not suitable for high-power devices such as washing machines or rice cookers. It's a worthwhile investment if your power needs align with its capabilities.