In the world of home decor, where innovation meets tradition, the Chouchin emerges as a captivating blend of both. This unique, pillar-shaped candle, inspired by the serene aesthetics of a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, represents a harmonious fusion of design and function.
Crafted with a dual wax composition, the Chouchin features an interior made of standard wax, burning in the familiar, comforting manner of a typical candle. However, it’s the exterior that sets it apart. This outer layer is composed of a patented, non-melting wax, creating a translucent shell that beautifully diffuses light, mimicking the soft, ambient glow of a lantern. As the candle burns, the light permeates through this outer wax, transforming the candle into a source of gentle, warm illumination.
This innovative design was brought to life through a collaboration with the esteemed Pegasus Candle Co. Ltd, based in Kurashiki, Japan. The non-melting wax not only adds to the candle’s aesthetic appeal but also serves a practical purpose. It collects the melting wax within, eliminating the need for a tray and allowing the candle to be safely held without the risk of dripping wax.
The Chouchin isn’t just a marvel in wax innovation; it’s also a testament to longevity and sustainability. The inner candle boasts an impressive burn time of 60 hours, ensuring months of ambient lighting with daily use. Furthermore, its design accommodates replaceable refills, enhancing its life span and reducing waste.
Each candle is meticulously crafted at the Pegasus Candle Co.’s factory, ensuring the highest quality. Presented in an elegant black box, the Chouchin Candle is not just a purchase but an experience – ideal for personal indulgence in a tranquil atmosphere or as a thoughtful, sophisticated gift for loved ones. In essence, the Chouchin Candle is not just a light source; it’s a journey of illumination, transforming from a simple candle into a symbol of elegance and tranquility, evoking the spirit of Japanese tradition with every flicker.
In the world of home decor, where innovation meets tradition, the Chouchin emerges as a captivating blend of both. This unique, pillar-shaped candle, inspired by the serene aesthetics of a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, represents a harmonious fusion of design and function.
Crafted with a dual wax composition, the Chouchin features an interior made of standard wax, burning in the familiar, comforting manner of a typical candle. However, it’s the exterior that sets it apart. This outer layer is composed of a patented, non-melting wax, creating a translucent shell that beautifully diffuses light, mimicking the soft, ambient glow of a lantern. As the candle burns, the light permeates through this outer wax, transforming the candle into a source of gentle, warm illumination.
This innovative design was brought to life through a collaboration with the esteemed Pegasus Candle Co. Ltd, based in Kurashiki, Japan. The non-melting wax not only adds to the candle’s aesthetic appeal but also serves a practical purpose. It collects the melting wax within, eliminating the need for a tray and allowing the candle to be safely held without the risk of dripping wax.
The Chouchin isn’t just a marvel in wax innovation; it’s also a testament to longevity and sustainability. The inner candle boasts an impressive burn time of 60 hours, ensuring months of ambient lighting with daily use. Furthermore, its design accommodates replaceable refills, enhancing its life span and reducing waste.
Each candle is meticulously crafted at the Pegasus Candle Co.’s factory, ensuring the highest quality. Presented in an elegant black box, the Chouchin Candle is not just a purchase but an experience – ideal for personal indulgence in a tranquil atmosphere or as a thoughtful, sophisticated gift for loved ones. In essence, the Chouchin Candle is not just a light source; it’s a journey of illumination, transforming from a simple candle into a symbol of elegance and tranquility, evoking the spirit of Japanese tradition with every flicker.
In the world of home decor, where innovation meets tradition, the Chouchin emerges as a captivating blend of both. This unique, pillar-shaped candle, inspired by the serene aesthetics of a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, represents a harmonious fusion of design and function.
Crafted with a dual wax composition, the Chouchin features an interior made of standard wax, burning in the familiar, comforting manner of a typical candle. However, it’s the exterior that sets it apart. This outer layer is composed of a patented, non-melting wax, creating a translucent shell that beautifully diffuses light, mimicking the soft, ambient glow of a lantern. As the candle burns, the light permeates through this outer wax, transforming the candle into a source of gentle, warm illumination.
This innovative design was brought to life through a collaboration with the esteemed Pegasus Candle Co. Ltd, based in Kurashiki, Japan. The non-melting wax not only adds to the candle’s aesthetic appeal but also serves a practical purpose. It collects the melting wax within, eliminating the need for a tray and allowing the candle to be safely held without the risk of dripping wax.
The Chouchin isn’t just a marvel in wax innovation; it’s also a testament to longevity and sustainability. The inner candle boasts an impressive burn time of 60 hours, ensuring months of ambient lighting with daily use. Furthermore, its design accommodates replaceable refills, enhancing its life span and reducing waste.
Each candle is meticulously crafted at the Pegasus Candle Co.’s factory, ensuring the highest quality. Presented in an elegant black box, the Chouchin Candle is not just a purchase but an experience – ideal for personal indulgence in a tranquil atmosphere or as a thoughtful, sophisticated gift for loved ones. In essence, the Chouchin Candle is not just a light source; it’s a journey of illumination, transforming from a simple candle into a symbol of elegance and tranquility, evoking the spirit of Japanese tradition with every flicker.
In the world of home decor, where innovation meets tradition, the Chouchin emerges as a captivating blend of both. This unique, pillar-shaped candle, inspired by the serene aesthetics of a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, represents a harmonious fusion of design and function.
Crafted with a dual wax composition, the Chouchin features an interior made of standard wax, burning in the familiar, comforting manner of a typical candle. However, it’s the exterior that sets it apart. This outer layer is composed of a patented, non-melting wax, creating a translucent shell that beautifully diffuses light, mimicking the soft, ambient glow of a lantern. As the candle burns, the light permeates through this outer wax, transforming the candle into a source of gentle, warm illumination.
This innovative design was brought to life through a collaboration with the esteemed Pegasus Candle Co. Ltd, based in Kurashiki, Japan. The non-melting wax not only adds to the candle’s aesthetic appeal but also serves a practical purpose. It collects the melting wax within, eliminating the need for a tray and allowing the candle to be safely held without the risk of dripping wax.
The Chouchin isn’t just a marvel in wax innovation; it’s also a testament to longevity and sustainability. The inner candle boasts an impressive burn time of 60 hours, ensuring months of ambient lighting with daily use. Furthermore, its design accommodates replaceable refills, enhancing its life span and reducing waste.
Each candle is meticulously crafted at the Pegasus Candle Co.’s factory, ensuring the highest quality. Presented in an elegant black box, the Chouchin Candle is not just a purchase but an experience – ideal for personal indulgence in a tranquil atmosphere or as a thoughtful, sophisticated gift for loved ones. In essence, the Chouchin Candle is not just a light source; it’s a journey of illumination, transforming from a simple candle into a symbol of elegance and tranquility, evoking the spirit of Japanese tradition with every flicker.
In the world of home decor, where innovation meets tradition, the Chouchin emerges as a captivating blend of both. This unique, pillar-shaped candle, inspired by the serene aesthetics of a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, represents a harmonious fusion of design and function.
Crafted with a dual wax composition, the Chouchin features an interior made of standard wax, burning in the familiar, comforting manner of a typical candle. However, it’s the exterior that sets it apart. This outer layer is composed of a patented, non-melting wax, creating a translucent shell that beautifully diffuses light, mimicking the soft, ambient glow of a lantern. As the candle burns, the light permeates through this outer wax, transforming the candle into a source of gentle, warm illumination.
This innovative design was brought to life through a collaboration with the esteemed Pegasus Candle Co. Ltd, based in Kurashiki, Japan. The non-melting wax not only adds to the candle’s aesthetic appeal but also serves a practical purpose. It collects the melting wax within, eliminating the need for a tray and allowing the candle to be safely held without the risk of dripping wax.
The Chouchin isn’t just a marvel in wax innovation; it’s also a testament to longevity and sustainability. The inner candle boasts an impressive burn time of 60 hours, ensuring months of ambient lighting with daily use. Furthermore, its design accommodates replaceable refills, enhancing its life span and reducing waste.
Each candle is meticulously crafted at the Pegasus Candle Co.’s factory, ensuring the highest quality. Presented in an elegant black box, the Chouchin Candle is not just a purchase but an experience – ideal for personal indulgence in a tranquil atmosphere or as a thoughtful, sophisticated gift for loved ones. In essence, the Chouchin Candle is not just a light source; it’s a journey of illumination, transforming from a simple candle into a symbol of elegance and tranquility, evoking the spirit of Japanese tradition with every flicker.
In the world of home decor, where innovation meets tradition, the Chouchin emerges as a captivating blend of both. This unique, pillar-shaped candle, inspired by the serene aesthetics of a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, represents a harmonious fusion of design and function.
Crafted with a dual wax composition, the Chouchin features an interior made of standard wax, burning in the familiar, comforting manner of a typical candle. However, it’s the exterior that sets it apart. This outer layer is composed of a patented, non-melting wax, creating a translucent shell that beautifully diffuses light, mimicking the soft, ambient glow of a lantern. As the candle burns, the light permeates through this outer wax, transforming the candle into a source of gentle, warm illumination.
This innovative design was brought to life through a collaboration with the esteemed Pegasus Candle Co. Ltd, based in Kurashiki, Japan. The non-melting wax not only adds to the candle’s aesthetic appeal but also serves a practical purpose. It collects the melting wax within, eliminating the need for a tray and allowing the candle to be safely held without the risk of dripping wax.
The Chouchin isn’t just a marvel in wax innovation; it’s also a testament to longevity and sustainability. The inner candle boasts an impressive burn time of 60 hours, ensuring months of ambient lighting with daily use. Furthermore, its design accommodates replaceable refills, enhancing its life span and reducing waste.
Each candle is meticulously crafted at the Pegasus Candle Co.’s factory, ensuring the highest quality. Presented in an elegant black box, the Chouchin Candle is not just a purchase but an experience – ideal for personal indulgence in a tranquil atmosphere or as a thoughtful, sophisticated gift for loved ones. In essence, the Chouchin Candle is not just a light source; it’s a journey of illumination, transforming from a simple candle into a symbol of elegance and tranquility, evoking the spirit of Japanese tradition with every flicker.
In the world of home decor, where innovation meets tradition, the Chouchin emerges as a captivating blend of both. This unique, pillar-shaped candle, inspired by the serene aesthetics of a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, represents a harmonious fusion of design and function.
Crafted with a dual wax composition, the Chouchin features an interior made of standard wax, burning in the familiar, comforting manner of a typical candle. However, it’s the exterior that sets it apart. This outer layer is composed of a patented, non-melting wax, creating a translucent shell that beautifully diffuses light, mimicking the soft, ambient glow of a lantern. As the candle burns, the light permeates through this outer wax, transforming the candle into a source of gentle, warm illumination.
This innovative design was brought to life through a collaboration with the esteemed Pegasus Candle Co. Ltd, based in Kurashiki, Japan. The non-melting wax not only adds to the candle’s aesthetic appeal but also serves a practical purpose. It collects the melting wax within, eliminating the need for a tray and allowing the candle to be safely held without the risk of dripping wax.
The Chouchin isn’t just a marvel in wax innovation; it’s also a testament to longevity and sustainability. The inner candle boasts an impressive burn time of 60 hours, ensuring months of ambient lighting with daily use. Furthermore, its design accommodates replaceable refills, enhancing its life span and reducing waste.
Each candle is meticulously crafted at the Pegasus Candle Co.’s factory, ensuring the highest quality. Presented in an elegant black box, the Chouchin Candle is not just a purchase but an experience – ideal for personal indulgence in a tranquil atmosphere or as a thoughtful, sophisticated gift for loved ones. In essence, the Chouchin Candle is not just a light source; it’s a journey of illumination, transforming from a simple candle into a symbol of elegance and tranquility, evoking the spirit of Japanese tradition with every flicker.
Camping isn’t everyone’s forte, but once you get a taste of it, you always feel like indulging in it, especially when the weekend is around the corner. I love dedicating my weekends to camping! Just a few days away from my hectic life, and this hectic world, in a bubble of my own, where all my worries are nowhere to be seen. Although camping does have a few downsides too – I mean, you have to get down and dirty, live life on the road, and tackle the moodiness of the elements. In such a scenario, having a set of trustworthy and handy camping products can make a world of difference! Having the right products by your side can make your life much easier during those crucial moments. From a foldable firepit to a flashlight duo with multiple modes– we’ve curated some fun and functional camping designs for you, that promise to make your outdoor adventures smoother and easier.
1. Space Acacia
This innovative modern camping system is called the Space Acacia, and it features a spacious weatherproof tent, a comfy air floor, and a temperature-adjusting canopy to provide protection from the rain and cold.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Acacia tent is chock-full of innovative features, each contributing to its occupants’ comfort and safety. The unconventional hexagonal shape not only provides more space but better stability as well, able to withstand level 8 winds. At the same time, its Oxford 300D material will keep you protected from downpours of up to 2,000mm.
What we like
Takes only 20 minutes to set up
Features PU2000 waterproof coating and a maximum capacity of 4,000lbs
What we dislike
Hefty price tag
2. The ROMR Elite2 Pro Camping Tent
The ROMR Elite2 Pro Camping Tent is an ultra-lightweight shelter that offers durable and reliable protection, regardless of the season you’re experiencing. It is also super easy to use and convenient from every angle.
Why is it noteworthy?
It uses the cutting-edge Dyneema composite material famed for its tear resistance, all-weather reliability, and lightweight fabric. Paired with water-repellent YKK zippers, the tent can protect you and your camping partner from all kinds of environments in any season.
What we like
Restructured as a folding soft-shell tent resembling the size and shape of a hitch-mounted cargo box
What we dislike
There is no option for customization
3. The All-In-One-Grill
Meet the All-In-One-Grill designed to help you with all kinds of cooking ranging from frying to smoking to stewing and grilling. This is the ultimate grill you’ve been looking for!
Why is it noteworthy?
Made by a small family-owned Japanese factory that specializes in sheet metal fabrication, the All-in-One Grill is carefully designed to maximize the limited amount of space available, like small grooves on the grill’s frame that keep the skewers in place. The wooden base that protects tables from the grill’s hot bottom also acts as a lid when the griller has to be stowed away.
What we like
Let’s you cook in seven different ways
Simplifies outdoor cooking
What we dislike
Hardcore grillers may not prefer this design, and would prefer more traditional designs
4. Mouro Lamp
Designed by Patricia Perez for Case Furniture, the Mouro Lamp is a pretty minimalist lamp defined by simple geometric shapes. The playful and portable Mouro Lamp is named after a lighthouse in Perez’s hometown.
Why is it noteworthy?
The lamp is made up of a disc-shaped LED light and a rectangular frame that holds it, while also doubling up as a handle. It has a unique yet simple structure and form that make it super easy to use and carry around.
What we like
Can be rotated 360 degrees
Provides directional illumination
What we dislike
Looks a bit fragile and is easily breakable
5. FireBase
Dubbed the FireBase, this foldable firepit is made using five metal parts that can be slotted into each other like puzzle pieces, saving you from fussing or focusing too much on the equipment, and allowing you to spend more time on preparing the food.
Why is it noteworthy?
The metal bonfire stand embraces a minimalist design where every part and cutout serves a purpose. In addition to the slots for inserting metal pieces like trivets and side plates, there are also holes in the middle that facilitate airflow.
What we like
Minimal and easy to carry form
Easy to disassemble the contraption for more convenient cleaning and carrying
What we dislike
The basic structure of the firepit allows for minimal cooking and no additional cooking techniques, which could be an issue for people who like cooking multiple dishes
6. The Orbe Lamp
French designer Nelson Fossey from Index Office collaborated with Lexon to create the Orbe lamp. Winner of the 2023 Red Dot Design award, the Orbe is a portable torchiere lamp that is designed to illuminate spaces wherever and whenever needed.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Orbe Lamp is inspired by childhood memories of playing the cup-and-ball game and features a detachable magnetic head with an interesting 2-part design that can be easily attached and detached.
What we like
You can easily carry the lamp with you anywhere, and its rotatable head emits a peak output of 100 lumens of light
What we dislike
Not sure if it durable enough to handle the outdoors
7. HOTO Flashlight DUO
Meet the HOTO Flashlight DUO, which is ideal for all camping scenarios. The flashlight is incorporated and integrated with various modes and inclusions to expand the flashlight’s functionality.
Why is it noteworthy?
There’s a retractable magnetic hook, strap, and magnetic base to make sure you are covered for any kind of usability. This gives the user the freedom to go hands-free and focus on the task at hand. You can either stick it to a hanging space or magnetically hook on onto any metal object.
What we like
The simple interface honed by a knob and button makes possible 13 different light combinations
What we dislike
Hefty price tag
8. Rux
Dubbed Rux, this gear container is simple, flexible, and modular. It allows you to hold all your stuff and is also soft-sided allowing you to fold and pack it up when not in use.
Why is it noteworthy?
It has several components that you can easily put together and comes with additional accessories that you can add to it to organize all your gear. It can be a good companion for fishing trips, camping adventures, cross-country road trips, and various events where you need gearboxes.
What we like
Features an easy-access fold
Built using compressed Eva foam
What we dislike
It does seem a bit big and bulky to be carrying around everywhere, could have a more portable design
9. Tentsla
The innovative Tentsla is a tent that fits perfectly into the boot of your Tesla and opens up into a full-fledged tent that can be used alongside the Tesla’s Camp Mode.
Why is it noteworthy?
Designed to turn your EV into the ultimate camping experience, the Tentsla comes with all the bells and whistles, including a multi-use weather-resistant canopy, mosquito netting, and a pump to help you set up your Tentsla in minutes.
What we like
Features a multi-canopy design that blocks out the sun and keeps it cool
The mushroom table lamp is so minimalist that you will see neither cords nor buttons on its pristine surface. Pressing anywhere on the edge of the lamp’s top turns it on and cycles through its different brightness settings before it turns off again.
What we like
Each press has a soft and comfortable clicking feel to it, so you can get addicted to and enjoy the gesture
What we dislike
Compared to traditional camping light, the diffused light of this lamp may not be bright enough
AC coupling capabilities make the Anker Solix F3800 a revolutionary next step in sustainable home power, but paired with its massive 6,000W output, wide range of connections, and expandable capacity, this power station is the most future-proofed on the market.
Almost three years ago, a winter storm blew through my town, knocking out power lines and rendering roads impossible to navigate. As a result, my family and I spent a full week (well, five days) rummaging around for crackers and water, lighting candles, and wrapping ourselves in blankets for simple warmth through the duration of the total blackout. Despite keeping a decent fire going in our backyard for a couple of days, it was impossible to stay focused on anything, and working in those conditions wasn’t viable. Enduring those freezing temperatures would’ve been far more convenient with a backup power source, and I wish I’d had Anker’s newest portable power station: the Anker SOLIX F3800, which — despite being the very first of its kind I’ve ever owned — is clearly a revolutionary next step in the growing landscape of backup power solutions. It features a maximum 6000W AC output, 120V/240V dual-voltage (meaning it can do what a gas generator does, power several appliances at the same time, and even power a house!). It even supports AC coupling when pairing with the Anker SOLIX Home Power Panel, and, used sparingly, its 3.8kWh (expandable up to 53.8kWh) capacity would’ve been just enough to sustain a handful of comforts through the winter freeze.
Before we get started with the nitty gritty details about the Anker SOLIX F3800, it’s worth mentioning Anker provided a functional prototype to Yanko Design for the purpose of this review. It includes all the features of the official launch product, but its appearance and craftsmanship does not reflect the final build quality, which is supposed to be much better than the prototype shown in this review.
For a modular power station designed to provide backup power storage for homes and RVs, make solar power more accessible for all, and potentially replace gas generators — the Anker SOLIX F3800 is relatively compact. It’s also quieter than any regular gas generator, and since it doesn’t emit any smoke, you can safely run it indoors. Because of a sizable but effective fan system, you’re going to hear a little noise, around 45dB if you’re standing within a meter, but it’s no louder than a PlayStation 4 running on full blast. YMMV, but I imagine it’ll be a better fit for regular outdoor use during non-emergency situations — particularly, once summer rolls back around and I can use it to power indoor gadgets like musical instruments and gaming consoles underneath the patio rather than inside the house.
The F3800’s subdued aesthetic style — it being a big gray rectangular box on wheels with an LCD display, a pull-out handle, and visible outlets on the front and both sides — allows it to blend in naturally with other electrical equipment, but it may get in the way of any aesthetic style not complementary to dark gray. I wouldn’t stick it in a kitchen, though it’s an attractive addition to a garage, and you might get away with planting it in your office.
After all, it’s essentially a big suitcase full of electrical equipment. No, it’s not as compact as, say, the Anker 767 Portable Power Station. But it still gets the job done, and it doesn’t take up all that much space. Right now, my SOLIX F3800 is tucked in-between a coat rack and a couple of shelves in my office, where it’ll stay until I need to stroll it back out again, and I genuinely love how easy it is to set up.
Utilitarian design pervades the layout of the Anker SOLIX F3800, and, I mean, yeah — you’re definitely not getting a $3,999 power station to make a fashion statement — but what it lacks in artistic appeal, it more than makes up for in functional design. Its predominantly matte finish, easy-to-navigate exterior, exposed fan grills, and conveniently-placed handles and wheels make it exude a sense of durability and reliability.
Ergonomics/Comfort
I had a rough time getting the SOLIX F3800 off my porch and into an area where I could comfortably unbox it, set it upright, and wheel it around. Granted, I’ve been needing to hit the gym lately so my inability to carry it around without immediately wanting to place it back on the ground again could be a “me” issue. But, just so you know, this thing is an absolute unit. It’s rated to weigh 132 lbs, though the package mine arrived in was a bit heavier than that — around 143 lbs in total. If you’re planning to order one of these to your house from Anker’s online store, make sure you have a pallet or some sort of luggage dolly on standby, as well as a second pair of hands to help you transport/set it up.
At least there’s a solid handle built into the SOLIX F3800’s chassis, as well as a pull-out trolley handle that unfolds with the tap of a bright blue button. Once the pull-out trolley handle came out, this thing suddenly became a lot easier to maneuver around. This is because its 65 mm back wheels and additional front wheels are more than sufficient to push and pull the thing around on smooth surfaces, and it even seemed to have no trouble with some rocky terrain as well. If you wanted to carry the Anker SOLIX F3800 around like a cooler (if you have the physical strength, that is), you’d be in luck; there is an additional handle located on the bottom, allowing you to two-hand-carry it.
Everything important information-wise is located on the front LCD panel, though you can also connect your smartphone to the device via the Anker App. It’s a simple enough process getting it set up; all you need is an Anker account and a smartphone with Bluetooth, and you can tell the app to sync with the SOLIX F3800 as long as it’s powered on, and as long the Bluetooth mode is activated. You can do that by tapping the Bluetooth button on the front of the device itself, neatly located right next to the display. Once it’s all set up, you can watch the flow of energy coming into and going out of the SOLIX F3800 directly from the Anker App. This is a neat and convenient way to stay on top of your energy usage, especially when you need to conserve energy during a blackout.
One thing I love is how easy it is to get the Anker SOLIX F3800 set up and going as a portable generator. Plugging it into my wall outlet, getting it fully charged, and powering on the unit itself was a really simple and rather quick process. On paper, it will take less than 3 hours to charge the power station to full from a wall outlet, as long as it is getting full power and not charging under extreme temperatures. Once I was ready to use it, I only had to tap two buttons: the power button on the front of the power station next to the display, and a separate AC outlet button on its right side (conveniently located next to its array of six 120V 20A outlets and two 240V 25A plugs).
Performance
From a performance standpoint, the Anker SOLIX F3800 breaks through the ceiling and into a whole new tier. Electric portable power stations simply don’t do what the Anker SOLIX F3800 does, and before now, there’s been little reason to get rid of the gas generator altogether. If you want to use it as a backup generator, you can. If you want to expand it with the Solix Home Power Panel and make it the storage battery in a far more sophisticated power setup that balances grid and rooftop solar power through the main electrical panel, you can set it up that way as well; and it’s made even easier to manage if you use the Anker App.
Boasting a power load capacity ranging from 6,000 to 12,000 watts (the latter is only possible if you hook up a second F3800), it flies high above other portable power stations from EcoFlow or Jackery — as well as anything Anker has ever placed onto the market previously. Its 240V 25A NEMA 15-40 outlets grant it the ability to power RVs and recharge electric vehicles, making it extraordinarily versatile, and common sense indicates that if you need to power something, you probably can. This alone makes the SOLIX F3800 the heaviest-hitting portable electric power station around. The question is whether or not you can power something for a long time.
Luckily, the Anker SOLIX F3800 is also one of the most scalable power stations in existence. It comes with a base storage capacity of 3.8kWh, which is generally enough to power a 1500W space heater for about two and a half hours. Of course, that’s not enough to sustain heat throughout a multiple-day blackout like the one I experienced, but unlike other power stations, this device can be upgraded to 26.880kWh with all six expansion batteries installed. That’s at least enough to power the same heater for over a day.
If you wanna go even further and reach a staggering 53.8kWh of power storage capacity, you can go all-in and connect a second Anker SOLIX F3800 via the Anker SOLIX Double Power Hub. Alternatively, you can link two F3800 units together via the Home Power Panel. That sets the F3800 apart from its predecessor, the F2000, which had a comparatively meager capacity of 2kWh with only one slot for an expansion battery, totaling 4.09kWh. Just note you’ll need to invest in 12 expansion batteries to make the most of this system, and that could run you well into the tens of thousands.
Sustainability/Repairability/Durability
Anker is a respectable brand with a lot going for it, and that’s because it’s constantly pushing out high-quality, durable power banks and power stations. Its LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) battery makes it notably longer-lasting than conventional lithium ion-based batteries used in older portable power tech; Anker promises at least 3,000 charge cycles up to 80% before this thing starts to die. That also enhances its sustainability rating by avoiding the use of cobalt and nickel. Plus, when you compare it to much larger and more expensive home power systems, it’s obviously a far more sustainable choice.
The need for separate hardware and additional batteries to get the absolute best utility out of the F3800 could absolutely be considered a drawback in terms of sustainability. But again, that’s not such a big deal when you realize a fully-upgraded Anker SOLIX F3800 system wouldn’t do nearly as much harm to the environment as legacy solutions with the same power output.
In terms of repairability, the F3800’s construction is complex and full of parts I don’t understand, and so I wouldn’t attempt to service it myself during a system failure. There are a few silver linings here: it comes with a 5-year warranty and is rated to work for 10 years or longer. Plus, it’s advertised as being simple for an electrician to set up and work with when coupling it with a house.
Value for Money
I’m iffy about making a hard call on the SOLIX’s value for its $3,999 MSRP (though there is currently a substantial discount of up to 35% off on Kickstarter on a number of Anker SOLIX F3800 deals — dropping the price of the standalone unit to $2,599, and giving excellent value on bundles including Anker’s 200W and 400W solar panels). On one hand, it’s pricier than the smaller generators, even though having the Anker SOLIX F3800 in my possession opens up more lifestyle options. The other reason is solar panels are still not widespread enough, even though you don’t really need solar panels to get the maximum value out of the F3800. Going in on an Anker SOLIX F3800 is making an investment into the future — especially since its heaviest-hitting feature is its ability to store a large quantity of solar power and convert that power into 240V AC output for home, RV, and EV usage.
While its initial price is eye-watering (at least, for me), the potential benefit of saving money over a much longer time with a fully-equipped SOLIX system, solar panels and all, could make the expenditure worthwhile. Especially for those actually living in RVs and tiny homes where utilities are significantly more important to stretch out. And, even in the much shorter term for a suburban house dweller like myself, the SOLIX F3800 is a sturdy backup power source — its base 3.8kWh storage capacity and 6,000W AC output are enough to make camping trips and natural disasters more bearable.
Even if there’s no emergency need for power, and even if you don’t plan to upgrade your Anker SOLIX F3800 with all the extra bells and whistles, you can still roll it outside during a sunny day and use it like any portable generator. Plus, you don’t necessarily need a fully-equipped SOLIX system (with the home power panel and all) to recharge the F3800 with solar energy either. The home power panel is just a tool to help the F3800 access larger rooftop solar panels, and you don’t even need that to make good use of the SOLIX system. In fact, if you bring the F3800 outdoors, as long as you also bring a portable solar panel to recharge it, you can have sustainable green power to do virtually anything you’d use power for. This is because the F3800 can be recharged by connecting to almost any rigid or portable solar panel available on the market.
Verdict
The Anker Solix F3800 is a revolutionary next step in sustainable home power, though it may not become a daily power source until you start buying solar panels. Thankfully solar is getting cheaper, and that’s certainly not the only reason you’d want to get one. This is the most future-proofed portable power station on the market right now, thanks both to its incredible portability for a home power system as well as its overwhelmingly strong performance. I love its 6,000W~12,000 and 120/240V AC output capabilities, its 53.8kWh maximum power capacity, and its ability to recharge itself via solar panels (up to 2,400W via XT-60 input) and then channel that same power into a house, an RV, an electric vehicle, or just about any appliance I can think of. That all means it meets the electricity needs of many day-to-day users, and its ability to provide a large dose of backup power during a disaster makes it a critical piece of equipment to have around. Plus, it’s simple and easy to use — requiring zero technical knowledge to charge it from a wall outlet or begin using it as a portable backup power generator. That all represents a meaningful push into the future, especially considering its first-in-class 240V AC power coupling makes it a direct competitor to home power systems that weigh significantly more and are significantly less portable. But when you want to use it like a portable backup generator, you can power it with any electricity source and it produces no emissions. That makes it a standout choice for homeowners seeking a reliable backup power source that’s both portable and versatile.
Building intricate little LEGO structures was one of my favorite hobbies as a kid. I would love sitting and spending hours building the adorable little builds. I’m sure most of us have nostalgic and heartwarming memories associated with LEGO blocks from our childhood, as well as the not-so-heartwarming ones of stepping on them with our feet and feeling an insane amount of pain shoot up our legs. Despite these wonderful childhood memories, LEGO is no longer considered child’s play! Master builders, artists, and LEGO enthusiasts all over the world are creating impressive LEGO builds that’ll blow your minds away. They are a result of their hours of dedication, attention to detail, hard work, and creativity. And we’ve put together some mindblowing LEGO builds that recently took our breath away! From a LEGO T-Rex to a LEGO Popcorn Machine – these LEGO builds are gonna get LEGO lovers drooling over them.
1. LEGO Popcorn Machine
Designed by Dimexart, this Popcorn Machine is built entirely from LEGO. It is reminiscent of the iconic popcorn machines you usually see in movie theaters. It features a glorious retro-style theme and is created using 955 pieces. In fact, even the popcorn is built using LEGO bricks!
2. LEGO Miller’s Planet Scene
LEGO builder Minibrick Productions recreated the iconic Miller’s Planet scene from the Interstellar movie with this tiny LEGO-based recreation that includes the ranger aircraft, astronauts Cooper and Brad, and the shapeshifting robots TARS and CASE. McConaughey and Hathaway come outfitted in their space suits, while TARS and CASE, the two robots feature repositionable arms that enable them to walk like humans.
3. The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull
The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull (76964) is one of the first Jurassic World sets intended for museum-like display. It is a 577-piece set that includes a T. Rex skull with an opening jaw, and a stand to proudly display it. The build also includes an info plaque, an amber piece at the back, and a fossilized footprint.
4. LEGO Snow Globe
LEGO-builder BrickAbe designed a functioning snow globe! However, what makes the snow globe even more special is that it features YouTube’s most well-known fictional character – the anime girl from the LoFi Girl YouTube channel, who is known for her endless streams of beautiful downtempo music.
5. The LEGO Art space poster “The Moon: Earth’s Companion”
The LEGO Art space poster “The Moon: Earth’s Companion” is a celebration of the beauty and glory of the moon and is built using 2360 bricks, it features realistic craters and terrains and is built with an immense amount of attention to detail. The brick-built Moon is a unique fan-made creation that perfectly captures the essence of the moon.
6. LEGO Piranha Plant
Dubbed the Piranha Plant, this LEGO build by Super Mario Landscape is a super cute desk accessory for all the Mario fans and lovers out there. The plant is made using 540 bricks, and stands tall at 9 inches, featuring an adjustable head, positionable leaves, a moveable jaw, and two golden coins that can be dropped into the plant’s pipe.
7. LEGO NIKE Air Jordan 11
LEGO Hungarian builder, Tamás Borján took his love for sneakers to a whole ‘nother level with the NIKE Air Jordan 11 LEGO build. Built using the beloved plastic building blocks, the Jordans feature a unique spin by Tamás. They are a perfect symbol of style and basketball prowess!
8. LEGO Magic Maze
Meet the Magic Maze! This immersive game is a complete treat for LEGO enthusiasts as it provides hours of fun. It basically involves guiding a marble around the challenging playing field. You need to skillfully tilt the seat, and navigate past the treacherous holes and obstacles. It’s a true test of dexterity and strategy, making it a perfect addition to your collection.
9. LEGO Tower Chess
This Tower Chess by Ferbrick1 basically disguises a board game as home decor! The build is cleverly designed and is morphed into a unique castle tower that stores chess pieces in built-in racks. The board also wraps around to form the tower’s brick facade, hiding the entire chess set underneath it.
10. LEGO FedEx Truck
LEGO fan David Clavijo designed FedEx’s iconic truck using LEGO bricks in celebration of FedEx’s 50th anniversary. The company boasts an inspiring workforce of over 500,000 employees, a fleet of 700+ aircraft, and 200,000 vehicles. This unique build pays tribute to the company!
