The Walrus G3 Solar Power Station from Battery Evo is shaking up the portable power market with its unprecedented value proposition. Offering a massive 22 kWh capacity and a powerful 12.5 kW output, it significantly outperforms competitors like the EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra at a fraction of the cost. This review delves into the Walrus G3's impressive specifications, comparing it to leading brands and examining its cost-effectiveness against both rival products and DIY alternatives. We explore its strengths and weaknesses, analyzing its high power output, versatile connectivity options, and rapid charging capabilities.However, the Walrus G3 isn't without its limitations. We'll examine the impact of its 4500W solar input, the use of recycled Lithium NMC batteries (affecting lifespan), and the absence of a 120V charger. Ultimately, this review aims to help you determine if the Walrus G3's impressive power and affordability outweigh its drawbacks, providing a comprehensive assessment to guide your purchasing decision. Is it the best value on the market, or are there hidden drawbacks you should be aware of? Read on to find out.
Pros And Cons
- Cheaper than DIY options
- Twice the capacity and output compared to similar units
- 12.5 kW inverter
- Split phase with 30 amp and 50 amp outputs
- 22 kWh battery capacity
- 4.5 kW solar input limits solar panel additions
- Uses NMC (lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide) batteries instead of LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries, resulting in fewer charge cycles.
- Only has a 240-volt input for AC charging
- Weight: 400lbs
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Unbelievable Price and Capacity
The Walrus G3 from Battery Evo boasts an incredibly low price point, significantly undercutting competitors like the EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra. For the price, it offers double the capacity (22 kWh) and output (12.5 kW) of two Delta Pro Ultra units combined. This cost-effectiveness is truly remarkable in the portable power station market.
The 12.5 kW split-phase inverter provides both 30-amp and 50-amp outputs, along with four 120-volt outlets for versatile power distribution. This makes it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Comparison with Other Popular Models
Compared to the EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra (7.2 kW inverter, 12.3 kWh battery), the Walrus G3 offers almost double the power and capacity. Even combining two Delta Pro Ultra units limits the output to 12 kW via their 50-amp Hub, while the Walrus G3 surpasses this. This results in a significant cost advantage, with the Walrus G3 costing less than $5,000 compared to around $8,800 for the EcoFlow setup.
Similarly, comparing it to the Jackery Apollo Pro and BLUETTI AC300, the Walrus G3 offers a superior price-to-performance ratio, exceeding the capacity and output of these other models significantly for a much lower cost.
DIY Comparison: Cost and Efficiency
Building a comparable solar generator DIY with server rack batteries costs approximately $3,700. However, this DIY system only achieves about 70% of the Walrus G3's battery capacity and a quarter of its output. Even adding another battery to match capacity would nearly equal the Walrus G3's price, while still offering significantly less output.
This highlights the exceptional value proposition of the Walrus G3, making it surprisingly cheaper than a comparable DIY setup—a rarity in the power station market.
Limitations: Solar Input and Battery Type
The Walrus G3's main limitations are its solar input and battery chemistry. The 4500W solar input restricts the number of panels that can be efficiently connected. Using more panels necessitates thicker gauge wiring, which increases the complexity and cost of the installation.
It also utilizes Lithium NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) batteries from recycled EVs, which have a shorter lifespan than the standard LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries used in most competing models. The lifespan is estimated to be between 1,000 and 2,000 cycles, dropping to 60-80% efficiency after three years of constant use.
Charging and Other Considerations
The Walrus G3 charges relatively quickly from a gas generator (240V, 50A input), which is helpful during periods of low sunlight. However, charging from a standard 120V wall outlet is significantly slower, taking 10-12 hours for one battery. The system doesn't include a 120V charger, which is a notable omission.
The unit weighs 400 lbs, requiring assistance for setup, though the included casters help mobility. It's advisable to have help assembling and positioning the system due to its size and weight.
Conclusion: Is the Walrus G3 Right for You?
The Walrus G3 offers exceptional value for its price, surpassing most competitors in terms of capacity and power for a fraction of the cost. The lower solar input and use of Lithium NMC batteries are its primary drawbacks. However, for users who prioritize affordability and high capacity, the Walrus G3 could be an excellent choice.
The system's performance in real-world use is good, with an 85% efficiency rating in testing. The potential to expand battery capacity should be carefully considered, as charging multiple expansion batteries simultaneously could prove challenging due to the limited solar input. Ultimately, the decision depends on your budget and specific power needs.