Nowadays, we are intrinsically connected to a variety of appliances without which we will find it difficult to continue our regular lives. If there is a sudden power outage at your home, you cannot put your life on hold. This is when portable power stations come in handy. They also serve as ideal companions if you want to go camping without any worries.
We know that it is easy to get confused about which portable power station to buy, considering that there are so many options out there. So we have examined the best portable power stations available and judged them on the basis of their battery capacity, maximum output, outlets, available power sources, warranty, and other factors.
We have spent a lot of time doing our research so that you can have all the information you need. The ECOFLOW DELTA was chosen as our Editor’s Choice. We have structured our article accordingly. You will find a table summary, in-detail reviews of each power station, and a complete buying guide as you scroll down.
More features: overload protection, high/low temperature protection
The EF ECO FLOW Portable Power Station Delta is a high-performance and handy power source that is designed to meet different kinds of electricity demands. You can use it indoors and outdoors when you travel, on a long road trip, or out camping. The power station is highly reliable as it comes with triple rechargeable modes. You can charge it with the 10-65V solar panel, an AC wall adapter, and a car charger.
The EF ECO FLOW Portable Power Station is our best overall choice because of its fast charging capabilities and convenience offered by multiple charging options. You can recharge the unit from 0% to 100% within two hours. Within the first hour, you will have the power station at 80%, thanks to the patented X-Stream technology that enhances the power station charging efficiency to be 10 times better than that of its competition.
The EF ECO FLOW Portable Power Station stacks up well against premium power stations like the Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium on this list with its multiple charging outputs. It comes with 6AC outlets, 2 USB-C ports, 2 USB-A ports, 2 USB-A quick charges, and a standard DC 13.6 V port. This means you can power your phone, laptop, drones, camera, fridge, blender, and in-car appliances, among other things.
More features: LCD screen with charge/discharge and battery life status
You will find that this device will highly improve the quality of your travels once you add it to your arsenal. It comes with high power capability as a result of which it can give you access to power even when you are in obscure locations during vacations.
You will find that this product is very user-friendly, and that is one of the primary reasons why it is so popular. It comes with a host of different accessories that will help you use it properly.
The AC adapter can be used to power both appliances that work on AC or DC. Once the stored power runs out, you can recharge the product through even solar panels or carports.
This model is versatile, and the lightweight design makes it portable.
The easy-carry handle will allow you to carry it anywhere you go. You can expect up to 100 running watts of power from this model. It can be fully charged within5 hours. It also comes with a 2-year warranty.
More features: LCD screen with charge/discharge data and battery life status
When it comes to choosing the best portable power supply, you need to be careful so as to not make a wrong investment. This model will not let you down in any way. You will get an AC output of up to 350W continuous and 700W surge watts with this device.
Having this product at home will give you the perfect emergency power backup when you have an outage. You can use this portable power station to charge up your smartphones, tablets, laptops, TV, lights, and CPAP (might require a DC converter).
Armed with the highest capacity lightweight lithium batteries, this portable power station packs quite the punch even though its size is small. You can also use this product like a solar generator when you are out camping, and you need a sudden power source. You can recharge it with the help of solar energy via a compatible 60W or 100W solar panel. You can also fully charge the battery pack in a matter of 6–7 hours by plugging it into any wall outlet. You can get the same results by plugging in the portable power station by a car charger.
This model is a pure sine wave inverter, and it allows appliances to run faster and smoother. It is also known to cut down audible noise in machines when they are running.
More features: large LCD screen and flashlight
The sleek design and light weight of this model make it portable and easy to use when you are outdoors. This powerful station makes very little noise and can be used for almost any device. It comes with four different types of input ports, so it can charge multiple devices simultaneously.
The power station has one AC port, one DC port, two QC3.0 USB port, one USB Type-C, and one car port outlets. You will be impressed with the large screen display on the product. You could see a lot of information on it, like remaining charging and usage time, low voltage warning, temperature indicator, and others.
The design of the machine has been done keeping portability in mind. With dimensions of 7.6 x 5.6 x 5.8 inches and weighing 6 pounds, the BALDR 200W happens to be one of the most portable external battery on the market that is also incredibly powerful. You will never feel that carrying this machine around is a burden.
The powerful 172Wh battery will give you all the power backup you need. You will be able to recharge the portable power station promptly when the charge runs out. Remember that you should use a proprietary BALDR 120W solar panel to recharge it.
More features: built-in LED flashlight with SOS mode, Multiple Smart Protection System, Digi-Power Technology
This model gives you that extra power backup that you need when you are on a trip. It will also serve the purpose if you want your appliances to work during an unfortunate power outage. The 172,800 mAh battery packs a punch, and it will last for a fairly long time.
The product is compact and portable in spite of the massive battery, which means that you can take it with you without any hassle. The power station is made in a traditional lunch-box style. You will find that this model is safer to use with A-Class lithium-ion batteries and the Multiple Smart Protection System that eliminates any over-voltage, over-current, and over-heating issues.
What makes this power supply so impressive is the immense capacity it holds in such a compact package. Whether you are heading out on a business trip or a holiday, this will serve as your able and trustworthy companion.
This portable generator can be charged in three different ways. You can power it from an AC wall outlet, a compatible solar panel, or even a car cigarette lighter socket. The model comes with a built-in LED flashlight, which is a bonus in low-light environments. The LED light also has an SOS mode, which will allow you to call for help in case you are in danger.
The product is compatible with almost all smart gadgets.
More features: 3 light modes LED flashlight, LCD display
One of the best-rated portable power stations, it will impress you from the get-go. A large number of power stations, despite being advertised as portable, are actually difficult to carry around, but this model is an exception.
You can transport it easily, and that is what makes it so popular among customers. It comes with fold-down handles which allow the user to carry the product easily whether he or she is just walking to the backyard or exploring the woods. Since the design is sleek and lightweight, users can carry it for a long time without feeling tired.
With this unit, you will be able to charge multiple devices at the same time because there are many outlets at your disposal. It comes with two AC, two standard USB, three DC, and one Type-C port. It does not matter which phone or tablet you need to charge; this portable generator will get the work done easily.
The long-lasting battery ensures that you do not have to worry about charging the generator often. You can charge it in your car, via a wall outlet, via solar panels, or via generator. Keep in mind that you will have to buy the solar panels separately. The integrated display and flashlight is also an added benefit.
More features: LED indicators, built-in LED flashlight
This portable power station is definitely one of the good budget options on the market. Quiet and hassle-free, this model will not disturb as it performs its magic. Armed with a CPAP battery pack, the machine can be charged via solar panels, wall outlets or even car chargers.
The three charging modes will ensure that your device is always ready for use. The model also comes with a built-in LED flashlight, which will allow you to see in a dark space. The safety features of this portable power station set it apart from its competitors. The best part is that you will be able to use this portable station to charge multiple devices, whether you are relaxing at home or traveling far and wide.
Since the generator comes with AC, USB, and 12V DC outputs, it will be compatible with even the latest gadgets. Moreover, the massive battery capacity of 42,000mAh makes it the perfect source for power during an emergency. The handle will allow you to carry the generator without any difficulty.
More features: charges up to 9 devices simultaneously; battery management system
Advanced enough to take care of your power needs, this ECOFLOW River model is supplied with an impressive number of charging ports, and the highest total and AC electricity output. With a smart proprietary thermal management system which will ensure your safety, there is plenty to love here, like the extended battery life of the machine, or the fact that you can use it for outdoor camping, indoor activities, or even commercial purposes.
The ultra-minimalist design makes this model seem like a work of art, and it comes equipped with the latest battery technology. As soon as you see this product, you will acknowledge its high-quality build.
The EcoFlow River Portable Power Station has as many as nine power outlets to keep your appliances charged all the time. Thanks to its 300-watt output, you can also use it on CPAP machines.
The generator can store up to 100,000 mAh capacity, offering an optimum performance. Yet, it’s still very portable, which means that you will be able to carry it in your bag. The nine-outlet system makes it perfect for home or outdoor use when you need to charge a variety of devices simultaneously.
More features: easy-to-read battery level indicator, input/output meter, runtime/recharge time calculator
If you want an excellent portable power station that will get the job done, you cannot go wrong with this product. With a rugged design, it is one of the best lithium portable power stations on the market. However, the Yeti 400 has a strong build ensuring that it stays with you for a long time. The outer shell of the product is sturdy, and it will be able to handle any pressure that you put on it when you carry it around with the help of the attached carrying handle. However, this long-lasting design does have a downside, which is that the product is rather heavy. Weighing over 17 pounds, it is not easy to travel with. You can be sure that most airlines would not be comfortable allowing you to travel on the plane with the device.
This model is perfect for camping if you have the space to carry it to the site. However, it shines the most at home when you are in an emergency. Touted as one of the most powerful power supplies on the market, it will provide you with all the power you need. The different plugin options in this power supply make it easy for you to handle it. Moreover, you can also measure how much time you have left on the device and charge it accordingly.
More features: pass-through function, LED light and SOS, noise free, zero emission
The Maxoak Bluetti AC50S Solar Power Station is a portable electricity generator designed for outdoor power backup when you have no mains power. It is powered by a high-efficiency lithium battery pack with a large capacity of 500Wh / 135Ah.
It has 3 ways of charging, through alternating current, with solar panels or by connecting it to a 12-24 V outlet. Also, the integrated battery management system (BMS) allows intelligent control of the charge/discharge process, which guarantees multiple protections for safe use, and which allows more than 1000 charge and discharge cycles.
The good side is that some users indicate that with the battery at 100% you can have the refrigerator on for 24 hours in a row, and complementing it with the solar panel can be much greater. The power source features a solar panel outlet, a wall AC outlet, car cigarette direct current 12V and 24V outlets, and a generator power source.
You should be able to charge it effectively using two 100 watts solar panels. Otherwise, the alternating current charger included with it charges the device too slowly.
More features: LCD display, gasless, noiseless
The Goal Zero Yeti 400 is the cat’s pajamas of all portable power stations out there. It is incredibly powerful and convenient. You can trust the large capacity power bank to power your digital devices and small appliances in case of a power outage at home. You can also use it in a tent when you go camping or a trailer when you hit the road. The unit has other useful features like an informative LCD display that helps you estimate your runtime with just one glance.
The Goal Zero Yeti 400 is our best powerful pick because it offers unmatched power. The power station has a 396 watt-hour and 33Ah capacity that allows you to charge your phone over 30 times, laptop over 5 times, and simultaneously run small appliances for several hours. It has a wide array of powerful outputs, including AC, 12V, and USB, that allow you to plug in up to 7 devices at the same time. The best thing about this power station is that it doesn’t require gasoline. This makes it a perfect option for eco-conscious people.
The Goal Zero Yeti 400 is a better powerful option than all the power stations on this list. Plus, it is less noisy and can be recharged in three different ways. It is a solid option for anyone looking to skip the noise, fumes, and maintenance that gasoline inverter generators come with.
Portable power stations can come in handy when you do not have immediate access to a dependable power supply. Today, having a power outage is nothing short of an emergency. You surely want to avoid a situation where you do not have access to any of your gadgets. A portable power station offers you all the power you need to have your appliances running all the while.
You can think of a portable power supply like a generator. These stations are meant to store electrical power so you can use it when you are camping outdoors, or when there is a power shortage in your house. However, it would be wrong to think that portable power stations resemble generators in every way.
There are some differences between the two that you should be aware of. While a generator operates on gasoline, portable power stations usually have a rechargeable battery which you can charge through multiple ways. You should charge it initially before you start using it, otherwise, it will not run properly. Moreover, a portable power supply and a generator create different levels of noise.
Most generators tend to be very noisy and end up disturbing your peace. Having them with you on a trip can be annoying. On the other hand, portable power stations tend to make negligible noise. Even if you are charging multiple devices at a time, you can rely on portable power stations to not make any loud sounds. Lastly, since generators run on gasoline, they tend to produce fumes when they are functioning.
Portable power supplies, however, do not give out any fumes as a result of which they serve as the ideal power source anywhere and everywhere.
Having an extra source of power can get you out of tough situations. When you are going hiking or on a camping trip, you might not have ready access to power to keep your phone alive. You might also just want to use it indoors when you do not want to drag any cables around.
New brands are launching in the market every day, bringing you advanced models of portable power stations. If this is your first purchase, it is okay to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available. Even if you have bought portable power stations before, you will find yourself wondering which are the best options to go for.
The battery of your portable power station is the most important feature that you should take into account. The battery capacity and the kind of battery which the power supply uses will determine how efficiently it can charge all your devices, as it is in the case with portable generators, where wattage output is the main deciding factor. You should evaluate how often you are going to use the portable power station and to what end before you make your choice. When it comes to the battery type, you should go for a Lithium-Ion battery without any hesitation. You will find that Lithium-Ion batteries can be easily recharged, and they are designed to store charge for extended periods of time.
These batteries also have a long life, and that is why they are perfect for portable power supplies. When it comes to the capacity, it depends on individual preferences because only you know which devices you are planning to charge with the power supply. If you choose a portable power station with a higher capacity like the ENKEEO S155 and the SereneLife, you will be able to charge multiple devices.
The price of the device goes up as you look for larger capacity batteries. If you are not willing to splurge that extra money, then you can opt for a portable power supply with small battery capacity.
The voltage or the amount of wattage, which can be supplied by your portable power station is the primary determinant of what the device can support. If the model has a low output, you will be able to use it for only smaller devices. Moreover, it will also limit your ability to charge multiple devices at the same time.
However, if you opt for a portable power station that has a higher wattage, you will be able to charge larger devices. In fact, you might be able to run appliances such as lights or fans if the wattage output of the portable power supply is high enough. However, you should not try to make a large device run on a smaller capacity power supply, or it might cause an accident. If you are planning to use the power supply to charge a laptop, then it should be able to give an output of about 60–90 watts.
You must have certain devices that you want to run in mind when you buy a portable power station. You should check out the power supply’s compatibility with different appliances before you make the investment. This is because the requirements of a smartphone and a laptop will be different. Moreover, there are some sensitive electronic devices like digital clock radios and laptops which require a power source that provides a pure sine wave. Otherwise, they do not run properly. If you want to use your portable power station for such gadgets regularly, then you should opt for one that produces a pure sine wave as compared to a modified sine wave.
The purpose of a portable power station is to come in useful wherever and whenever. While a large number of portable power supplies advertise themselves as portable, most of them are not suitable to be carried from one place to another. If you intend to use the portable power station only at home, then you can opt for a bigger and heavier machine.
However, if you want to travel with it, then you should opt for lightweight devices such as the SUAOKI S270, that can be carried by hand for long distances. Moreover, certain airlines will not let you fly with heavy power sources.
Ideally, a portable power station should also come with handles that provide an easy grip.
A portable power station is useless when it does not have any charge. You should ensure that your portable power supply provides you with plenty of recharging options. When you are traveling, you can then charge the machine via whichever method is available to you. Most modern portable power stations like the Goal Zero Yeti 400 can be charged in more ways than one.
You can use the standard AC plugins when you are charging the station at home. You can also use the DC plugins when you are in your car. Some portable power stations also support solar energy. If you are planning to the last option a lot, then you should invest in a separate solar panel.
The portable power station that you buy must be easy to use. You do not want to be fiddling with buttons and going through manuals when you are traveling. A large number of portable power stations come with a screen which acts as a battery indicator. This means that you will be able to keep the power supply charged before it completely runs out.
If you would like to make things more convenient for yourself, then you can get your hands on a portable power station that comes with a variety of plug-in options. You will have AC ports, DC ports and even USB plugs at your disposal. You will be able to get the job done no matter what device you have.
Having a warranty on a product gives you a certain level of flexibility. However, you will notice that warranties on power stations do not extend over a very long period of time. The maximum warranty you can get for a portable power station is 24 months. Some companies only offer a one-year warranty. The type of warranty that you get with the machine should be able to cover the battery as it is the most expensive part of the device.
If you want to get the most out of your portable power station, you might want to get some extra features. They may not be essential to the primary functions of the power supply, but they add to the experience. Flashlights, output meters, battery indicators, overheating protection systems, and surge protectors are worthy additions.
This method is equally effective, and your portable power station will soon be ready to use. Thirdly, modern portable power stations can be recharged via solar panels. However, most brands do not provide you with solar panels along with the device, and you will have to buy them separately.
Airport officials do not object to most portable power supply stations, but they might not let you keep a power supply which is too big and too heavy. Moreover, you might find it difficult for yourself to lug around bulky power stations. Even if you do manage to get them on the plane, you will not be able to fit them comfortably.
If you charge a device and draw out the power that is being gained by the power station, then the net charge gained by the latter becomes very low. The power bank battery will not end up charging properly because the device will take up all the power. You should not expect your power bank battery to charge and discharge at the same time.
We hope that your search for the best portable power station has reached fruition based on our article. All the listed portable power stations have their merits and demerits. Our personal favorites were the ECOFLOW Delta, the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, and the Rockpals 350W. The ECOFLOW Delta, with its sleek design, nine power outlets, and decent power output was our favorite on the list. The Jackery Explorer 240 has a lower price tag as compared to top picks, but is lighter and has amazing features for the price. Finally, the Rockpals 350W will not let you down in any way. You will get an AC output of up to 350W continuous and 700W surge watts with this device.
