Best Solar Power Banks and Solar Chargers: Top 13 to Consider
Dealing with a drained phone battery when hiking can be very frustrating. To avoid such problems, you need a solar power bank or charger when traveling or working off-grid. They are the most innovative must-have gadgets when stepping outdoors.
The power banks and chargers are compact and can support more than one solar panel. Their features enhance electricity conversion capacity. They can power the latest devices as needed, making them great in an off-grid environment. When purchasing a power bank or solar charger, check their charging speed and bulkiness. Their compatibility and number of supported devices are equally crucial features to check.
What is a portable solar charger?
A solar charger is a device that uses electromagnetic radiation from the sun to recharge electric appliances and batteries. Overall, the best solar chargers are designed to be portable. Their range of charging intensity is subject to the amount of sunlight.
How do solar chargers work?
Portable solar chargers use the energy from the sun to produce electricity. Technically, electric energy is created through the movement of the free electrons. The electrons are usually fixed around an orbit. For the electric current to be produced, the electrons must be dislodged.
The energy from the sun, which comes in photons, has ample energy packets to set free the electrons. Solar charges do not charge the lithium-ion battery in your phone directly. On the other hand, they can charge an internal battery using solar modules. The charge is then distributed to an electric circuit.
You can also plug the USB charger into the conventional source of power. The multiple recharging options make the unit very versatile.
What is the lifespan of solar chargers?
The lifespan of solar powered chargers depends on several aspects of a solar charger. Solar panels can last between three to twenty-five years. The battery component also has a varying lifespan depending on the type. Generally, lithium iron lasts longer than lead acid, of course, depending on the maintenance.
Solar chargers: pros & cons
Pros
- Solar chargers are the champions of clean energy. They emit no fumes and do not affect the environment
- The solar-powered phone chargers require low maintenance cost
- The chargers are safe to use and reliable
- Solar chargers maintain battery capacity for longer by generating direct current (DC) from the sun.
- The chargers are autonomous and can be used anywhere
Cons
- Even the top solar power banks are affected by changes in weather patterns and climate
- Compared to the electric grid, solar chargers are relatively slow
- Solar chargers have low power production that depends on their models required and the fitted solar panels. Some models take up sizable storage space, making the foldable ones very utile
What are solar power banks?
Solar powered power banks are detachable batteries fitted with solar panels. They are perfect for storing extra energy for electronic devices. The power banks can recharge and do not need to connect to an outlet for recharging. However, they can be plugged into an electrical receptacle to double up the electricity used.
How do solar power banks work?
The solar panel power banks charge electronic devices using energy from the sun. The energy then powers a fitted rechargeable battery. Solar power banks should be charged first before being used. Apart from solar energy, the power banks can use a normal electric outlet.
When charging a device using power banks, connect it with a USB or wireless connection.
Are solar power banks any good?
The best portable solar power banks are ideal for outdoor usage. They are good for charging electronic devices in places with no electric power outlets. The devices let you carry along electronic appliances in off-grid surroundings and charge them as required.
Solar power banks: pros & cons
Pros
- Solar power battery banks are slim and conveniently light, can easily fit in your backpack
- They are pollution-free and made from safe components, and emit no fumes
- Power banks come with multiple USB ports, compatible with almost all the devices you need
- The best solar power banks are plug-and-play, perfect for powering devices using energy from the sun
- The power banks are hybrid and can be charged using energy from the sun and the power grid
- Solar power banks have adequate power capacity to power devices of dissimilar power ranges
- They are easily charged with a strong power storage capacity
Cons
- Power banks are not recommended for regular use on your phones. There is proven evidence that they can damage phone batteries. The devices should only be in an emergency
- Depending on the model, solar power banks can be quite bulky. Some are heavy and can take up much space in your bag
What is the difference between a solar charger and a solar power bank?
Both solar chargers and power banks are perfect for charging phones and devices. Solar chargers are power devices that turn solar energy into electricity. On the other hand, power banks are internal batteries for collecting electrical energy.
Best solar power banks & chargers
The top portable solar power banks and chargers to consider include:
GOODaaa Solar Power Bank 36000 mAh
Specifications:
- Size: 6.69 x 3.42 x 0.98 inches
- Weight: 1.08 pounds
- Li-polymer battery: 36000 mAh
- Built-in 4 charging cables
- 1 USB input
- 3 USB outputs: 1 type-C cable, 1 USB cable, 1 IOS cable
- 5V/3A fast charging
Reasons to buy:
- Wireless charging
- Durable battery
- The external solar battery is IPX4 Waterproof/Dust-proof/Shockproof
- The power bank can charge 6 devices simultaneously
Reasons to avoid:
- It takes much time to charge the power bank fully
Features
- Can charge iPhone 8 more than 10 times.
- Can be rechanged via an adapter or solar power.
- It comes with Micro USB and Type C input ports, USB and Type C Output ports.
- It is equipped with Dual super bright LED lights.
- Supports iPhone XR/ XR MAX/ XS/ X/ 12/11/8/ 8plus, Samsung Galaxy S9/S9plus S8/S8plus,etc.
FlexSolar 30W Portable Solar Charger
Specifications:
- Size: 31.5 x 20.32 x 4.06 cm
- Weight: 1.19 kg
- Included in the product kit: DC5521 to USB Cable 2 Carabiner
- DC charging port: 19.8V-1.6A max
- USB port: 5V-3A/9V-2A/12V-1.5A
Reasons to buy:
- FlexSolar 30W Portable Solar Charger is super-efficient in energy conversion
- It is equally relatively fast in charging and relaying electric energy
- The solar charger has a panel that can be folded into a smaller size, 8 x 12.5 x 1.6 inches, for easy handling
- The charger is built to withstand high temperatures and pressure
Reasons to avoid:
- FlexSolar 30W Portable Solar Charger is bulky
- Its performance is dependent on climatic conditions and weather patterns
Features
- It is one of the best solar battery chargers with USB connectivity, making it compatible with laptops, tablets, speakers, etc.
- It is fitted with a smart chip for intelligent charging control and optimized functionality.
- It has a smart control for safe charging and protection against short circuiting, overheating, and the protection of the internal systems.
Mregb Solar 42800mAh Power Bank
Specifications:
- Size: 7.48 x 3.94 x 1.02 inches
- Weight: 1.21 pounds
- Battery: 42800 mAh
- Strong professional ABS material
- Compatible with smartphones and tablets
- USB outputs: 2
- Wireless
- Supports QC3.0 fast charge protocol
- 680 Lumen flashlight
Reasons to buy:
- Strong and long-lasting battery
- Its LED light can work up to 100 hours
- IP67 waterproof, drop-proof and dust-proof
Reasons to avoid:
- Slow charging
Features
- Large battery capacity.
- Chemical resistant, heat-resistant, and has super surface hardness, high elasticity and toughness.
- Can work in extreme weather conditions.
- Works well even after the drop from a height of 3 meters.
BigBlue 5V 28W Solar Charger
Specifications:
- Size: 28.52 x 16 x 1.8 cm
- Weight: 595 g
- Number of USB ports: 3
- Wattage capacity: 28W
- Material: PET Polymer fabric
Reasons to buy:
- The solar battery charger has adequate capacity to absorb energy from the sun with high efficiency
- It is made from strong and durable materials that can hold out against weather elements
- The attached solar panel is foldable, making it possible to fit in small spaces
Reasons to avoid:
- BigBlue 5V 28W Solar Charger performs minimally in gloomy conditions
Features
- The solar phone charger features a 28W monocrystalline solar panel. The panels have a shorter charging time than the conventional panels.
- The unit is made with SmartIC technology that automatically detects the connected device and adjusts the charging speeds appropriately.
- Its IPX-4 waterproof level protects the charger from water leakage.
Solar Power Bank 36000 mAh
Specifications:
- Size: 7.72 x 5.04 x 1.65 inches
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
- Connector type: USB type C
- Total USB outputs: 4
- Total USB ports: 1
- Amperage: 3 Amps
- Wattage: 15W, max 5V/3A fast charging
- 3 Built-in charging cables: 1 type-C cable, 1 USB cable, 1 IOS cable
- 3 LED flashlights
- Rugged structure
- Wireless
Reasons to buy:
- Solar panel is durable, water-resistant, dust-resistant, and shockproof
- Large battery capacity
- Compact design
- Lifetime warranty
Reasons to avoid:
- Long charging time
Features
- It is compatible with Headphones, Tablets, Cameras, Smartphone, Smartwatches.
- The power bank supports the following phone models: Samsung Galaxy S9, Qi-enabled, iPhone.
- It can charge an iPhone 13 more than 8 times and an iPhone13 Pro Max more than 7 times.
- The product has 2 USB output ports, one USB C output port, and one wireless charging.
Decdeal Portable Solar Charger
Specifications:
- Size: 14.2 x 8.8 x 0.3 cm /5.6 x 3.5 x 0.1inches
- Weight: 65 g
- Wattage: 2.5W
- Product kit: solar charger and USB port
- Output port: USB
Reasons to buy:
- Decdeal Portable Solar Charger is suitable for charging all devices of 5V power requirements and below
- The unit is made of strong, durable, and light materials
- The fitted solar panel efficiently absorbs solar energy and converts it into useful electricity
- The charger is versatile and can charge multiple components at once
Reasons to avoid:
- It has no energy storage capability, making it hard to charge devices when the weather is not favorable
Features
- Decdeal Portable Solar Charger has an automated power control system that makes it safe and easy to use with devices.
- Its monocrystalline power conversion is highly efficient at close to a 20% conversion rate.
- It is fitted with a strong solar panel that perfectly charges and has a longer lifespan.
SunnyBAG Leaf PRO Solar Panel
Specifications:
- Size: 28.5 x 24.5 x 0.25 cm
- Weight: 349 g
- Wattage: 7.5W
- Input: 5V
Reasons to buy:
- SunnyBAG Leaf PRO Solar Panel is one of the strongest solar panels in the industry
- It is made from highly durable components that meet top solar chargers quality standards
- It is strong and consistent in direct device charging
- The outer casing is scratch resistant and can withstand pressure or extreme weather elements
- SunnyBAG Leaf PRO Solar Panel is also an award-winning brand in quality and flexibility
Reasons to avoid:
- The power output is low compared to electric devices
- Slightly bulky
Features
- SunnyBAG Leaf PRO Solar Panel has an auto-restart function for smart charging and device protection.
- The USB ports are compatible with all kinds of devices with seamless connectivity. It can also power multiple devices at once.
- It is enhanced with a lithium battery for power storage.
Dizaul Solar Charger
Specifications:
- Size: 142*75*13.6 mm
- Weight: 146 g
- LiPo battery. 5000 mAh
- LED torch
- Input USB 5V/1A
Reasons to buy:
- It is great for powering multiple devices at the same time
- The power bank is energy efficient in absorbing, storing, and discharging energy
- All the modules in the products are made safe and eco-friendly
- The USB support is compatible with all USB-enabled devices
Reasons to avoid:
- PEARL Mobile Phone Solar Power Bank takes longer to fully charge a device compared with the level of charge from the mains electricity supply.
Features
- PEARL Mobile Phone Solar Power Bank is made to IPX4 waterproof standard, perfectly protecting the device outdoors.
- It is fitted with an integrated solar panel that maximizes solar output
- The power bank can be plugged into the main supply through the USB ports.
- Can charge two devices of 5V simultaneously.
- Comes with a micro-USB charging cable, versatile with regular devices.
Сonkor Solar Power Bank
Specifications:
- Size: 14.2 cm x 7.5 cm x 1.3 cm
- Weight: 150 g
- In-built lighting
- Li-polymer battery with 5,000 mAh solar charging
- Input 5V/1A
Reasons to buy:
- Сonkor Solar Power Bank charger can recharge multiple devices plugged in simultaneously
- Its versatility is ideal for mobile devices, smartphones, and lightweight electric devices
- The power bank can also function as a source of lighting
- It is made from waterproof and durable material that cannot be affected by weather elements
- The power bank can be charged using solar portable charger energy or by plugging into the electric wall plug
Reasons to avoid:
- The power bank is bulky and can add extra weight to your backpack.
- Slow charging compared to charging with an electric power source.
Features
- Сonkor Solar Power Bank has universal standardized USB ports supporting multiple devices.
- A solar portable power bank panel is of top-notch efficiency.
- It comes with a lithium battery capacity for enhanced power storage.
- Has the capacity to charge two devices simultaneously.
- Load capacity of up to 100W, perfect for all electrical devices.
BoxWave Solar Power Bank
Specifications:
- Size: 13.7 x 7.6 x 2cm/5.4 x 3.0 x 0.79 inches
- Weight: 170 g
- Material: polycrystalline
- It has an attached Carabiner for attaching to a key chain
- The unit is fitted with a compass
- It has an LED flashlight
Reasons to buy:
- BoxWave Solar Power Bank is small in size, and light in weight, making it an easily portable
- The power bank is perfect when stepping outdoors with its ability to power almost all lightweight electronic devices
- The unit uses the free solar energy from the sun, something that makes it perfect for saving you extra money on your electricity bills
- The unit is versatile and can be used anywhere in an off-grid environment
Reasons to avoid:
- BoxWave Solar Power Bank has a lower power capacity compared to the grid.
- The power bank performs less optimally during gloomy weather.
- Regular use can damage phone battery capacity.
Features
- The solar power bank comes with a Solar Rejuva PowerPack-type battery of 10,000 mAh capacity. It has a substantial storage capacity that can power several devices.
- The solar panel is made of polycrystalline solar cells, a standard material fully optimized for high energy absorption levels.
- It has rubberized bumpers that make the power bank handle pressure and shock.
Fyearfly Solar Power Panel Charger
Specifications:
- Size: 24 x 14 x 1 cm
- Weight: 140 g
- USB Solar output: 6V 1700mA
- Usb output: 5V 1200 mAh
- Wattage: 10W
Reasons to buy:
- The solar power panel charger is easy to use. There is no setup required. You need to just plug in and start charging
- It charges your devices directly from the sun and requires no maintenance
- It’s lightweight and portable
- It can save a significant amount of energy
Reasons to avoid:
- It doesn't store energy but only works when there is enough sunlight
Features
- It features Bluetooth and USB connectivity, perfect for almost all lightweight electrical devices.
- It has 10 wattage strength, making it stronger than similar charger brands.
- Fyearfly Solar Power Panel Charger has an automated charge control that adjusts the required energy for your devices.
- It is IP64 waterproof-grade and resistant against weather elements.
Charella Polycrystalline Solar Charger
Specifications:
- Size: 87.5 cm x 29cm x 1.6cm
- Weight: 900 g
- Material: silicon solar panel, polyester
- USB-A
- Output: 5V3A
- Type-C output: 5V, 9V, 12V
Reasons to buy:
- Charella Polycrystalline Solar Charger is made using a waterproof fabric, making it watertight when left outside
- It is versatile and compatible with charging electric devices like phones, iPads, speakers, and tablets
- The outer casing is scratch free and can withstand weather elements, causing wear and tear
- Charella Polycrystalline Solar Charger panel and battery are made from durable material with a long lifespan
- It can charge multiple devices at the same time with an even efficiency
- The unit is made of components that meet all the industry safety standards
Reasons to avoid:
- The solar charger has a low capacity and can only power small devices
- The charging capability is dependent on climatic conditions. Gloomy weather means that the unit can gather a low amount of power
Features
- It is fitted with an efficient solar panel with a high electricity conversion rate.
- Charella Polycrystalline Solar Charger has an intelligent control system that enhances the power input and output.
- Its photovoltaic power generation strength is sustainable and environmentally friendly.
ReVolt Solar Panel Power Bank
Specifications:
- Size: 138.5 x 0.4 x 73 cm (unfolded), 29.5 x 4 x 36 cm (folded)
- Weight: 4.4 kg
- Wattage: 100W
- USB ports: 5V/2.1A
- Product kit: power bank, 100W solar panel
Reasons to buy:
- ReVolt Solar Panel Power Bank is built to power multiple devices simultaneously.
- It comes with a high performance-battery that is strong and long-lasting.
- ReVolt Solar Panel Power Bank has multiple charging options. The power bank can be plugged into a car charging system or main electricity
- The unit is portable and can be folded
Reasons to avoid:
- ReVolt Solar Panel Power Bank and chargers are a bit large and bulky.
- Performance depends on weather patterns.
Features
- ReVolt Solar Panel Power Bank and chargers have lithium-ion batteries for power storage.
- The mounted mobile solar panel is compact and efficient in charging and energy storage
- Has 5 connection ports for 5V and 230V options.
- Comes with a switchable 0.5W LED lamp and 2 light modes.
- Has a consistent light of 150 lumens.
Online shops with solar power banks
Summary
The choice of the best solar chargers or power banks comes down to what suits your needs. You can go for Conkor solar power banks if you want something simple and light. However, if you are searching for a larger capacity solar panel, Revolt can serve you perfectly well. The unit is versatile with folding panels and can support multiple devices. Other added features like a torch or wireless charging system make the chargers and panels above great. As to which options you should go for, the choice is all yours.