Most of us have a dependency on the grid. Plugging our cellphones, digital cameras, ebook readers, and tablets into a wall-mounted charger every day. We could all do with the occasional break from the grid and you should use the power of the sun.
Solar power is a convenient, environmentally-friendly way of ensuring that your devices remain charged as you enjoy the outside.
What's In This Article
Quick Comparison
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ADDTOP 25000mAh Solar Power Bank |
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Raipow Solar Power Bank 26800mAh |
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Hiluckey Solar Power Bank |
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Qi 35800mAh Solar Power Bank |
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Aonidi 26800mAh Solar Power Bank |
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Yelomin 20000 mAh Solar Power Bank |
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BLAVOR PN21 Solar Power Bank |
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Living off the grid can be a bit terrifying. Especially when you need to keep in touch with friends and family. That can be difficult when you are hundreds of miles away from a power outlet. The panic soon sets in that you have forgotten to charge your devices.
How are you going to show off the sights when your cell phone and digital camera need a charge? And what if you get lost and need to call the emergency services?
With a solar power bank you can charge your devices as you go. Wilderness campers, world travelers (and their mothers) all attest that a way to charge your devices is one less worry. You would barely notice the solar panels hanging from your backpack but you would appreciate them in an emergency.
1. ADDTOP 25000mAh Solar Power Bank
Specifications
Brand: ADDTOP
Connector Type: Usb, Micro USB
Voltage: 5 Volts
Most solar power banks should be judged on their charging ability, and ADDTOP provides a sizable 25000mAh with theirs. That solar panel performance should set it apart, but the design is even more impressive.
A plastic and synthetic leather case provides durable protection, which it hardly needs with an IP65 rating. Totally dustproof, you can leave it out in the rain and it should be fine. Just try not to submerge it.
Both USB ports are covered for even solid protection from water and dust. The 25000mAh is the main star of the show. Once fully charged, it should charge an iPhone around seven times.
That capacity should mean confidence in the great outdoors that you can keep all your devices charged while out for days. Four solar panels make it happen and you can easily attach them to your backpack.
Pros
- Huge Charging Capacity – 25,000 mAh is huge charging capacity and should charge a smartphone three to four times
- Short Charging Time – Only requires around 25-30 hours of sunlight to fully charge
- Four Solar Panels – Four foldable solar panels with up to 1A input from direct sunlight
- Power Output Compatibility – Should charge most 5V devices as long as they have USB ports such as smartphones, ebook readers, digital cameras, and tablets
- Reliable When Outdoors – Built for the outdoors with dust and shock construction as well as waterproofing
Cons
- Heavy – The solar power bank is quite heavy for its size at 1.18 pounds
2. Raipow Solar Power Bank 26800mAh
Specifications
Brand: Riapow
Connector Type: Usb, USB Type C
Voltage: 5 Volts
If you wanted a little more juice, then how does 26800mAh sound? How about inductive, wireless charging for QI-enabled phones too? With three USB ports, you can charge four devices simultaneously at full speed.
It can fully charge an iPhone 11 in just 1.3 hours and get a smartphone to 50% charge in half an hour. That is quick, it is also smart by auto-detecting each of your devices’ current to provide the fullest, fastest charging speed possible.
This solar power bank is also designed to be used outdoors. Of course, you can hang it on your backpack but an LED Flashlight with three modes, including SOS, could make the difference in an emergency. Visibility is key yet so is a durable, sturdy waterproof design which means it can take a hit too.
Pros
- Inductive Charging – Cable-free charging with wireless output which supports all QI-enabled phones
- Rapid Device Charging – Should charge four devices at the same time at full speed
- Current Auto-Detecting – The clever design will auto-detect a device’s current to match it to the fastest charging speed to a maximum of 3A
- Quick Recharging – The solar power bank will recharge in only seven hours with a USB-C charger
Cons
- No USB-C Charger – It is recommended to charge the solar power bank with a USB-C which is not included
3. Hiluckey Solar Power Bank
Specifications
Connector Type: Usb, USB Type C, USB Type A
Battery Capacity: 26800 Milliamp Hours
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 6.26 x 3.11 x 0.39 inches
During most flights, you are supposed to have your smartphone off. With the Hiluckey Solar Power Bank you can use up to 10W to get your QI-enabled phone fully charged wirelessly.
You can also use the more conventional method of a cable to attach your tablet, your digital camera, maybe even another power bank for a charge. That versatility also means a USB-C port that can be used as an input or output port. Great if you only have so many cables.
While this solar power bank is incredibly versatile, a 10W wireless charging speed is more powerful than most. Then there is dependable durability from an IPX7 rating and anti-impact protection on each corner. Submerge it, drop it, the Hiluckey Solar Power Bank is ready for your trip to the great outdoors.
Pros
- Great Device Compatibility – Will charge a huge range of smartphones, tablets, cameras, and other digital devices including different power banks
- LED Flashlight – Three modes are included with the LED Flashlight including steady, flashing, and SOS
- Dual USB-C Port – The USB-C port can be used as an input or output port
- Anti-Impact Protection – Each corner of the solar power bank has been made for impact so do not worry about dropping it
- Totally Waterproof – Submersible up to around three feet from a rating of IPX7
Cons
- Slow Wall Charging – May be slower to charge via a wall-mounted charger than a lot of other solar power banks
4. Qi 35800mAh Solar Power Bank
Specifications
Compatible Devices: Tablets, Cameras, Cellular Phones, Smartwatches
Compatible Phone Models: IPhone Samsung phone and all usb device
Connectivity Technology: USB
There is great charging capacity and there is 35800mAh. That’s pretty much leading the way for a solar power bank but that is what you get from the Qi Solar Power Bank. For being off-grid, that charging capacity is ideal for having a reliable energy source to keep several devices going over and over again.
Multi-protection comes with that huge capacity as it will keep your devices from short-circuiting and overcharging. The solar power bank will automatically alter the output to save from overcurrent and overvoltage too.
As well as that long-lasting battery capacity, this is also the solar power bank to come to the rescue should an emergency arise. A flashlight with capacity for 280 lumens is ideal for the outdoors and could lead you through the pitch dark with a 3.3W light output.
Do not fret about dropping this solar power bank either due to a shockproof shell, even if it should fall from 3.6 meters.
Pros
- Huge Charging Capacity – 35600mAh is pretty much unparalleled charging capacity for a solar power bank
- Bright Flashlight – A 280 lumens flashlight that comes with a 3.3W light output
- Drop-Proof – Ideal for taking on long hikes
- Smart Chip – Capable of auto-identifying different devices then stabilizing the voltage for safe charging using a smart chip
Cons
- Slow Solar Charging – With such a huge charging capacity it takes a while to charge
5. Aonidi 26800mAh Solar Power Bank
Specifications
Brand: aonidi
Connector Type: USB, Micro USB
Battery Capacity: 26800 Milliamp Hours
Walking in the outdoor wilderness means getting prepared for whatever the elements can throw at you. Wind, rain, even fire. The Aonidi 26800mAh Solar Power Bank can withstand most temperamental conditions, and still provide great charging capacity.
Formed from fireproof materials just in case, the solar bank can produce a powerful flashlight when darkness falls. Lasting 50 hours with a brightness up to 360 lumens should be enough to light your path.
All that durability means easy charging with the included hanging rope and anti-slip material. Hand-hold it while you walk and watch your devices quickly charge up with a maximum output of 15W. That is enough wattage to charge an iPhone 12 in a single hour. Plenty of battery power to have that extra reassurance.
Pros
- Fireproof Materials – The power bank is formed from materials than can withstand fire
- Anti-Slip – Easily hand-held to grip and charge along a walk
- Hanging Rope – Easily attachable to your backpack for hours of charging while enjoying the sun
- 15W Maximum Output – Charge your devices quickly with an ample 15W
- Long-Lasting Flashlight – The flashlight can last for 50 hours and is bright up to 360 lumens
Cons
- Large Weight – Several users have commented that the solar bank can be heavy to hand-hold
6. Yelomin 20000 mAh Solar Power Bank
Specifications
Brand: YELOMIN
Connector Type: Usb
Voltage: 5 Volts
Some hikers and travelers like to pack light. Only carrying the bare essentials means taking a solar power bank that offers a backup for your devices. The more desirable options will charge your smartphone, your tablet, and even another solar power bank if you need it to.
You may only need a bit of juice to ensure you can get through a long hike and still have a charge for when you really need it. The durability in this solid power bank also means you should be able to use it for over 900 recharges.
Charging capacity can run into the 30,000’s yet you may only need a backup and the Yelomin 20000 mAh Solar Power Bank will provide that. You will also know when the solar power bank is charging thanks to pilot indicators.
The green light will indicate that the sunlight is boosting the battery and a blue light is for USB charging. LED lighting and a compass that is graciously included truly makes this an ideal outdoor companion. Ready for when you need it.
Pros
- Compass Kit Included – In case of emergency, a compass kit is included to direct you back to the right path
- Battery Status Indicators – Five pilot indicators can show you the status of the battery charging
- Durability – You should be able to recharge the battery over 900 times
Cons
- High Temperature Sensitive – The ideal operating temperature range is 14F to 140°F and prolonged exposure in high temperatures will damage the solar power bank
7. BLAVOR PN21 Solar Power Bank
Specifications
Brand: BLAVOR
Connector Type: Usb, USB Type C
Output Voltage: 5 Volts
Sometimes you just want a simple design that works. That reassurance where you know that whatever happens you can rely on a piece of kit. The BLAVOR PN21 Solar Power Bank has three foldable solar panels that can unfold at the click of a button.
With a neat, easy-to-use design and an LCD display, you will instantly know how much charge you currently have. That display will also show you how much power it can get from direct exposure to sunlight. It should be a lot with 594 optical lines in total which is key to a higher conversion efficiency than a lot of rival solar power banks.
Talking of current, 960mAh is available when the three solar panels are unfolded. That is a sizable amount of capacity to ensure your devices are charged up. You would not even have to unfurl cables to wirelessly charge your QI-enabled smartphone.
Pros
- 15W Charging – Fast, powerful 15W charging at an affordable price
- Three Foldable Solar Panels – The solar panels unfold with a single click
- LCD Display – A real-time display shows you how much charge is available
- Wireless Device Charging – Wirelessly charge your QI-enabled smartphones
- Solar Charging Current – With 960mAh available from the three solar panels, you can keep your devices charged
Cons
- Undersized Solar Panels – On a long hike under cloud cover, three solar panels may not be able to charge all of your devices
Buyers’ Guide
Charging Capacity
The primary feature you need to check is the charging capacity. Should you have several devices that you know will need to be charged, you need to consider this feature of the solar power bank first and foremost.
Charging capacity is usually measured in mAh (milliamp Hour) which is the number of milliamperes a battery can provide per hour. Obviously, the bigger the mAh, the more charging capacity. For instance, if the battery has a mAh specification of 25,000mAh, it can provide 25,000 milliamperes for an hour.
Most solar power banks come with a rating of 20,000 and upwards of 30,000 mAh. Estimating how much mAh you are likely to need could make a big difference in how much you need to pay too.
In order to best use the charging capacity of your solar power bank you should consider prioritizing your devices. Try to think about which device you are more likely to use in the near future. Your smartphone, the tablet, the ebook reader?
Each device will have a different sized battery; the battery for a tablet is likely to be bigger than that of a smartphone. If you can estimate the required mAh of your solar power bank you can narrow down your choices.
The number of ports the solar power bank has will also impact on the charging capacity. Ideally, you will want to charge multiple devices at once which will provide a significant drain on the battery. However, some solar power banks can hold their charge for a number of weeks yet may only be relied upon for a few charges at a time.
To reach that charging capacity you may have to rely on the weather, specifically whether the sun comes out beyond the clouds. There are some solar power banks that only take a matter of hours to fully charge.
However, others may take multiple days to charge from sunlight alone. That is largely why a lot of manufacturers suggest ensuring that your solar power bank is fully charged from a wall socket before you set off.
Several manufacturers do design their solar power banks specifically for emergency purposes. This is so the solar charging is classed as a secondary feature with the main intention that the charge is held in case you need it.
Being able to charge your devices while you are out exploring is an ideal way of ensuring you can still use your devices when you need them. If you can rely on exposure to sunlight then you can be assured that your cellphone will be charged, as well as your tablet or ebook reader if you need it. That means you can simply concentrate on your off the grid experience.
Ideally, you should only need a solar power bank when you truly require it, though it does act as a great accessory to take with you. If you know you are going to take a long trip or need an alternative energy source for a new life off the grid, a solar power bank is a super option.
However, to fully make use of it you may need to find one with the most solar charging capacity. This is how much the solar power bank will be charged from direct sunlight. You may also need to make sure your solar power bank can withstand the elements if you want to use it as you want it.
For that you should check the IP rating (more information is included on that below). Those solar power banks with several solar panels attached are usually a bit more fragile so should be considered primarily for use in summer.
Weather Resistance/Durability
A lot depends on the weather, especially for your solar power bank. Having said that, most solar power banks can take a bit of rain. While most will not be completely waterproof, they can typically handle a few spills. They are designed to be exposed to the elements after all.
If you do need to compare how waterproof a solar power bank is then you need to check the IP rating. This will also indicate how dustproof it is too.
An IP rating consists of two numbers. The first number indicates how dustproof the solar power bank is with six being the highest value available. The second number refers to how waterproof it is and a 7 would mean that the solar power bank can be submerged in three feet of water for up to half an hour.
An X for either value would mean that the solar power bank has not been tested for that resistance. For instance, an IPX5 rating would mean that the solar power bank has not been tested for dustproofing but the five means it should comfortably resist a sustained water jet spray at low pressure.
Maximum Output/Time To Charge
While the charging capacity should take precedence in your decision-making, how long the solar power bank takes to charge a device is also important. For that feature, you will need to check the maximum output rating.
Just like the charging capacity, the bigger the value the better. The maximum output will typically be measured in watts and an 18-watt solar power bank will provide much faster-charging speeds than one with ten watts.
Size
A solar power bank that is worth the investment will likely come with large solar panels. The bigger the coverage, the higher the charging capacity, and the maximum output.
This is really important for backpackers as some solar power banks can be foldable. You can even attach them to your back and charge them up as you hike.
For Travelers On Short Trips
If you are embarking on a short trip, you may need to ask yourself how many charges you need. For a daytrip you may only need to make sure that you use your cellphone all day and still have some charge just in case.
A few extra photos perhaps, maybe listen to a podcast or record a video to capture that special moment. If you do just need a boost of juice then simply make sure that the solar power bank is fully charged after each trip.
That will likely mean you do not need to consider the solar charging capability, especially if you cannot rely on sunshine.
Should you be going on a multi-day trip to somewhere remote you can rely on a solar power bank for a few charges. This should cover your devices for a few days and it will likely prove more reliable than a regular power bank as you have extra functionality.
You should not even worry about staying out for a couple more days. As long as there is some sunlight for a few hours, that should be enough for a full charge to cover your devices.
For The Forgettable
There is always someone in a traveling party that completely forgets to charge their devices. For most, the prospect of setting off without a fully charged device is enough for a panic attack before the day has truly begun.
Should you be the one liable to forget to charge your devices then having a fully charged solar power bank is a superb idea. Maybe keep one in your vehicle or your luggage so you know that if you do forget, there is still another power source ready to go when you need it.
This is especially important if you are going on a trip and want to remain contactable for family and friends. You may also need to be contactable for work, in which case having a solar power bank in your vehicle or office desk is a really smart thing to do.
It would be far easier to carry a solar power bank than take your charger and wonder where to find a power outlet.
For Life Off The Grid
Living off the grid should mean relying on nature. That can mean filtering your own water, hunting your own dinner and having a stocked up cellar. A solar power bank should be a crucial part of your emergency kit.
Especially as it can hold charge which could be crucial in a disaster. Being able to charge your devices without relying on the infrastructure is also incredibly liberating.
While life off the grid should be emancipating you should still be able to rely on some modern technology. That includes your solar power bank so try to find one that can hold its charge well. Having an alternative power source that you know is readily available is a welcome comfort.
For The Environmentally Conscious
Those who want to make a difference on their energy consumption may want to consider a solar power bank. Solar panels are already well known as a great energy source and solar is certainly considered to be the energy of the future. Maybe even right now.
Solar power is accessible and it only requires a small investment to have your own convenient energy source with a solar power bank. Even a small solar power bank can make a huge difference if you can attach it to your bag every day.
Weight
The weight of your solar power bank is really important to consider. An experienced backpacker will know that every ounce counts. While you will have your essentials packed there are other items which are ‘nice to haves’. An extra t-shirt or a different hat. Your solar power bank should be an essential item to take with you but the weight all adds up.
There is a bit of weighing up to do with a solar power bank. The bigger and heavier ones will typically provide more battery charging capacity as the solar panels, and the battery itself, will be bigger and bulkier.
However, you will have to carry it. If you are an experienced backpacker who can spend a few days out on a hike you likely want a bit more charging capacity. Especially if the weather may not bring so much direct sunlight. However, if you are only going for a day hike you may be able to get away with a smaller, light solar power bank.
If you only have a large solar power bank that is ideal for longer hikes, then it may be more convenient not to take it. The likelihood is if you use your devices wisely you probably will not need to charge them. But if you have a smaller solar power bank that you can top up during the day then that may suit the job. Just don’t forget to charge it before you begin your hike.
Output Ports
Being able to charge all your devices at once is a massive boon to have which comes with a lot of solar power banks. Yet that also takes into account the number of devices you will be carrying. If you only need to pack your smartphone and a tablet then you only need two ports.
However, should you go on a longer trip and want to take an ebook reader perhaps you will want three ports. Almost all solar power banks will use full-size USB Type-A ports for output which means they will be compatible with a cable of your choice. However, for input they will either use micro-USB or USB Type C so take that into consideration.
As a general rule, look out for solar power banks that have two output ports and two input ports as these provide great versatility.
Extras
For solar power banks that can offer a higher solar charging current, you are likely looking at multiple, folding solar panels. These tend to come with a clickable action so that they can be unfolded easily then clipped to the back of your backpack.
Charging on the move is a great option to have to keep the power bank ticking over. You can also expect a set of three or even four solar panels on offer. The more solar panels, the higher the coverage and the higher the solar charging current.
A handy feature to look out for is an LCD display. These will give you a real-time countdown of how much charge you have left. Some even tell you how much of that charge is available from current exposure to sunlight.
FAQs
Can solar power banks be charged without exposure to sunlight?
Yes, they can be charged without direct exposure to sunlight. A lot of solar power banks will have battery banks, these work without being solar charged. You can plug them into another power source, or simply use a traditional wall outlet depending on the accessories and cables you have. If the solar power bank does not have one of these battery banks it will require exposure to sunlight and a direct connection to the solar power bank to charge.
What’s the difference between a solar power bank and a solar charger?
There is one subtle and telling difference between a solar power bank and a solar charger. A solar power bank has a battery, a solar charger does not. That one detail can determine which device you go for. If you know you will be going on a long trip and the weather may be temperamental, opt for a solar power bank. That way you can fully charge your device and even if the sun goes behind the clouds, you still have some charge reserved in the battery.
That ‘just in case’ aspect can make a crucial difference so you are not depending on the weather and sunlight exposure. Having power stored away is a comforting notion and saves you the worry of checking the weather. However, a solar charger is ideal for long backpacking trips when you know you will be out in the sun for hours. They are also comparably lighter and if you can rely on the sun they are more efficient and will provide a faster charge.
Why You Should Invest In A Solar Power Bank?
Simply having a solar power bank is a great item to take on your next trip. Being less dependent on the grid is a wonderful freedom to have. The freedom to know you can charge your devices in the sunshine even though you may be spending a few days in a rainforest. Or the desert, or at sea.
If you only have a solar charger there is not so much a dependency on the grid but the sun. With a solar power bank you can reserve the charge for when you need it the most.
Knowing that you can still charge your cellphone when the sun goes down is a comforting thought when you are so far away from a power outlet. Convenient and environmentally-friendly, a solar power bank could also be the most important thing you pack should an emergency arise.
