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Anker SOLIX F3800 Review: An Absolute Unit

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PROS:


  • Exceptional power capacity

  • Easy to set up

  • Versatile power outputs, including support for RVs and electric vehicle charging

  • Convenient suitcase design

CONS:


  • It’s expensive; especially when upgrading it to its max potential

  • Hooking it to your house’s main power requires professional help

  • Heavy

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY
Click Here to Buy Now

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

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.

Designer: Anker

Aesthetics

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.

The post Anker SOLIX F3800 Review: An Absolute Unit first appeared on Yanko Design.

How BLUETTI Power Week helps you power through any interruption or outdoor adventure

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A lot of things are said to make the world go round, but there is very little doubt that electricity is what powers modern civilization, literally. Not only do our phones, computers, and gadgets require electricity to run, but the appliances that bring safety and comfort to our lives also rely on this kind of power, whether directly from an outlet or from a battery. Unfortunately, electric power isn’t as ubiquitous and as reliable as it may seem, especially when you take factors like outages and off-grid locations into consideration. Fortunately, BLUETTI is on top of things and has a rich selection of power generators that not only help you survive interruptions and enjoy outdoor escapades, they also let you live with green and safe power whenever and wherever you need it.

Click Here to Buy Now: Save up to $1000. Hurry, offer ends soon!

Outlast Outages with the BLUETTI AC300 and EP500

There’s nothing more stressful than being plunged into darkness at home, especially during an already nerve-wracking storm. That’s an especially harrowing experience when you need power for critical appliances or medical devices. In the old days, you’d be left at the mercy of a gasoline-chugging generator just to power up a few of these products. Today, BLUETTI offers plenty of options depending not only on the power you need but also on your mobility.

The BLUETTI AC300, for example, brings a modular system that revolves around a 3,000W pure sine wave inverter that you can pair with a B300 battery module capable of holding 3,072Wh of power. This modular lets you not only move each piece as needed but even expand the capacity to up to 12,288Wh with four B300 modules. An AC300 and a single B300 are enough to power an 800W AC refrigerator for 12 hours or a 1,000W microwave for 10 hours. And if you need even more power, you can combine two sets of AC300 and four B300 batteries using the BLUETTI Fusion Box Pro for an incredible 24,576Wh of power, enough to get your household through a weekend.

Click Here to Buy Now: $2,599 $3,299 ($700 off). Hurry, deal ends on Sept 18th.

The beauty of the AC300 lies in its modularity, but if you want something a bit more integrated, then the BLUETTI EP500 might be your cup of tea. The suitcase-like portable battery has four wheels that make it easy to move around the house to deliver its 5,100Wh battery capacity anywhere you might need it. With a 2,000W pure sine wave inverter and 15 outlets, this mobile home backup power supply not only lets you survive an outage for a day or two, it can also power your DIY tools, parties, and any other activity that needs a lot of juice away from wall sockets.

Click Here to Buy Now: $3,999

Go Green with the BLUETTI AC200MAX and AC180

One of the biggest advantages of BLUETTI’s products is that you can live on green power as much as you want to. No more scrambling for planet-killing fuel during a catastrophe or wishing for wall sockets in the great outdoors. Whether you want to power your house with truly green energy or want to enjoy an off-grid vacation in a cabin, BLUETTI has got you covered.

Like its sibling, the BLUETTI AC200MAX boasts a modular design that puts you in control of just how much power you want to purchase or bring along with you on a trip. On its own, however, the AC200MAX already brings its own 2,048Wh battery and a 2,200W inverter, but you can also double that capacity with a matching 2,048Wh B320 battery module for a total of 4,096Wh of power. With 16 outlets that include 120V/20A and 120V/30A AC ports, this potent pair can charge all your devices and power your appliances in an emergency or when away from power outlets. Plus, you can charge the batteries themselves using fast 900W solar charging, topping up in just 3 to 3.5 hours.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1,599

If you need something more compact for a quick getaway, the BLUETTI AC180 offers green power on the go. With a 1,152Wh battery capacity and 1,800W output, you can run even power-hungry dryers and electric kettles. It’s also an ideal solution as an emergency UPS for those moments when you need to keep a computer running even with brief power interruptions. And being battery-powered, it’s a lot safer and quieter than traditional gas generators, and you can charge it up using solar panels as well.

Click Here to Buy Now: $799 $999 ($200 off). Hurry, deal ends on Sept 18th.

Indoor Convenience Outdoors with the BLUETTI EB3A and AC60

People are thankfully rediscovering the joys of spending days and nights outdoors, but we can never shake off being dependent on electronics for both essentials as well as entertainment. Whether it’s making sure food stays cold and fresh or charging cameras and drones that record these precious moments, you’ll want a reliable power source that just works, even when there’s nary a wall socket in sight. And yes, BLUETTI has answers for that as well.

The BLUETTI EB3A combines power and sustainability in a very portable package, offering 600W of power from a 268Wh battery, enough to charge a 60W drone more than four times, or an iPhone 12 as much as 25 times. Its LiFePO4 battery delivers reliability and safety, ensuring you’ll be able to use this power station for years. And when you pair it with a 200W PV200 folding solar panel, you don’t have to worry about running out of juice in the middle of the great outdoors.

Click Here to Buy Now: $209 $299 ($90 off). Hurry, deal ends on Sept 18th.

Last but definitely not least, the BLUETTI AC60 brings the brand’s modular design to a smaller scale. With a 403Wh capacity and 600W output, this portable power station can handle laptops, mobile devices, and even small refrigerators, especially when you hook up an 806Wh B80 battery module. This pair is truly built for outdoor use, with an IP65 dust and water resistance rating and a rugged design that lets it handle anything you or Mother Nature throw at it. And with Turbo Charging technology, you can charge the battery itself in just 1 hour using a 600W AC source.

Click Here to Buy Now: $599 $699 ($100 off). Hurry, deal ends on Sept 18th.

Just because we’re dependent on electronics doesn’t mean we have to be slaves to wall sockets and the grid. With BLUETTI’s wide variety of portable and solar power stations, you can enjoy the conveniences of modern life wherever you are and in any situation. And with the BLUETTI Power Week, there isn’t a better time to get your hands on one of these long-term investments, especially when you can get BLUETTI-branded merchandise a cap, a T-shirt, or a hoodie when you go over a certain value. So stop stumbling in the darkness or stressing outdoors with the clean, green, and portable energy of BLUETTI power stations and solar panels.

Click Here to Buy Now: Save up to $1000. Hurry, offer ends soon!

The post How BLUETTI Power Week helps you power through any interruption or outdoor adventure first appeared on Yanko Design.

What if your soundbar speaker was also a massive power station that could charge your laptop and phone?

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The ZUHO is a powerful speaker, but not powerful in the way you’d think. Sure, it’s a pretty capable audio device with a punchy 30W output and dual 10W subwoofers giving you a frequency range of 40Hz to 20kHz, but look behind the audio drivers and you’ll notice four 220V AC outlets, two 65W USB-C port, a 30W USB-A port, and a 10W wireless charging dock. The ZUHO isn’t just a soundbar, it’s a power station that becomes the hub of your workspace, managing power supply to all your surrounding gadgets… and if that wasn’t enough, the ZUHO also has a built-in anion (ionizer) air purifier that disinfects the air around it. Talk about being an overachiever!

Designer: ZUHO Design

Click Here to Buy Now: $315 $435 ($120 off). Hurry, for a limited time only!

ZUHO’s features can be broadly split into its three basic functions – hi-fi audio, power station, and air purifier, all of which one could argue ZUHO does pretty well. At 14 and a half inches wide, 4 inches tall, and 5 inches deep, the ZUHO is a sizeable contraption, designed to be placed on your tabletop right beside your laptop or underneath your monitor. It weighs a staggering 11 lbs, but I couldn’t really fault it because the ZUHO isn’t just an empty cabinet with audio drivers. It’s got so much more happening behind the surface. It even has an angle-adjustable wireless charging surface on the top for your phone, giving major iPod docking station energy.

Endless Music Enjoyment – With its extremely wide frequency range of 40Hz to 20kHz and output channel 2.0, ZUHO is able to recreate sounds accurately to the tiniest detail.

High-fidelity Audio – ZUHO has a high-fidelity sound quality, a flexible diaphragm and that automatically balances the sound effect. The sound quality allows you to immerse yourself in live concerts.

On the audio front, the ZUHO packs an absolute punch. The speaker is outfitted with two 15W horns and two 10W subwoofers, which, coupled with the rectangular design of the device, deliver high-fidelity, minimal-distortion audio in stereo. Bluetooth 5.0 allows you to connect any wireless device to the ZUHO, although it’s missing a 3,5mm audio input for your laptop or desktop. Controls on top of the ZUHO let you toggle playback and volume, or even switch on/off the anion air purifier.

Charge 6-8 Devices at the Same Time – Comes with 4 unit outlets, wireless charge pad, and fast charging.

Each plug contains 220v, which means it can supply small gadgets’ power demands.

10w foldable wireless charging pad on the top center of ZUHO. You can use the foldable pad to place your phone while watching youtube.

Charge 3 devices simultaneously using ZUHO’s convenient 65w USB-C and 30w USB-A output ports.

ZUHO’s biggest differentiator is its ability to serve as a hub for all your gadgets. Acting as a power station/power strip, ZUHO comes with four 220V outlets on the rear, allowing you to plug all your chargers and power cables directly into the speaker instead of looking for multiple power sockets in the wall. ZUHO consolidates all your power requirements into one device, keeping your desk organized and clutter-free. The four AC outlets are supplemented by a 30W USB-A port, two 65W USB-C ports for your smaller gadgets like your tablet, power bank, earbuds, smartwatch, Nintendo Switch, etc., and finally a fold-out 10W wireless charging pad on top that lets you keep your phone either horizontally or at an angle. With such power also comes the responsibility of ensuring all your gadgets stay safe. To that end, the ZUHO comes with built-in power management protocols to protect itself and your gadgets against overcharging, overheating, surging, and short-circuiting.

Enjoy 100% of ZUHO’s Fresh Air – Touch Anion function on the touch panel to let the air purifier work. It helps you purify the air in a 50 meter range.

If all that wasn’t enough, the ZUHO also has a built-in air purifier that uses ionizing technology to sanitize the air around you. The anion purifier uses high currents to ionize air molecules which instantly kill airborne bacteria and viruses, giving you air that’s inherently germ-free. A simple button on the top of the ZUHO’s control panel lets you activate this feature, while the purifier works to cleanse the air within a 50 meter range.

With its uniquely multipurpose design, the ZUHO appeals to a wide variety of people. Whether you’re looking for a hi-fi speaker setup, or just a way to keep your gadgets powered without that knotted mess of cables hanging around your legs, the ZUHO ticks multiple boxes. Super early bird backers can grab their own ZUHO starting at a discounted €287 ($315 USD), with options for US, EUR, AU, and GB-style plug options.

Click Here to Buy Now: $315 $435 ($120 off). Hurry, for a limited time only!

The post What if your soundbar speaker was also a massive power station that could charge your laptop and phone? first appeared on Yanko Design.

How this futuristic-looking portable power station can level up your game

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Our modern lives have become dependent on electronic devices, not just for work but also for entertainment, whether they’re gaming desktops, consoles, or smartphones. Of course, that means that we’re just as dependent on batteries and electricity that power them, and we often start to panic and stress out when the lights go out. Granted, there are plenty of emergency power solutions these days, but very few would appeal to the aesthetic tastes of gamers and tech-savvy users, nor are they very portable when it comes down to it. That’s all about to change with this innovative portable power station that packs a whopping 300W of power in a distinctive and stylish box that’s just a little larger than an A5 pocketbook.

Designer: Wang Qi

Click Here to Buy Now: $199 $299 ($100 off). Hurry, 6/28 left!

There is really no shortage of portable power stations in the market today, but almost all of them have two things in common. They’re primarily marketed for camping use or travel, and they all look the part of rugged and heavy pieces of equipment. Even if they’re designated for home use, they’re often stowed away from sight, not just because of their size but also because they will often clash with the rest of your room.

The Energon 300, in contrast, is something you might be tempted to put on a pedestal, and you definitely can, thanks to its portable size. At only 242 x 180.4 x 102.95mm, it’s half the size of other power stations with the same battery capacity, so you can easily pick it up and place it anywhere to power up anytime. Its diamond cut design easily makes it stand out from the crowd, giving off sci-fi vibes that will definitely match most gamers’ styles. It’s a refreshing sight from all the rugged power stations or minimalist power banks littering the market, but the Energon 300 has more than just dashing good looks.

“V” Powerlink – Ability to power up to 7 devices simultaneously.

Seamless compatibility.

Smartswitch – Energon 300 switches to backup power within 20ms, ensuring your devices stay powered and uninterrupted.

Thanks to Volcan Celltech technology, the Energon 300 packs an astounding 300W LiFePO4 (Lithium iron phosphate) battery inside its compact body, the kind of reliable and long-lasting battery that’s used in electric cars. That’s enough juice to power seven devices, and thanks to its “V” Powerlink multi-port design, you can power all seven of them at the same time, whether they’re gaming consoles, drones, or even laptops. With a 20ms smart switch, you can even use the Energon 300 as an emergency backup power so you won’t miss a beat or a hit during an unexpected outage.

Adventure-ready Design – Built to UL 94V-0 standard, ensures durability and safety even in challenging environments.

Despite its gaming-friendly appearance, the Energon 300 is also fit for travel. Its 3.6kg weight and slim, compact size make it easy to carry around, while its fire-retardant and shock-resistant shell makes it more rugged than it looks. Powerful, portable, and stylish, the Energon 300 delivers all the power you need to level up your game, whether outdoors, at home, or in the dark during a blackout.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199 $299 ($100 off). Hurry, 6/28 left!

The post How this futuristic-looking portable power station can level up your game first appeared on Yanko Design.

3 Ways BLUETTI can make Mother’s Day extra special with portable power stations

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Although we really should be doing more than just once a year, it’s that special time when people all over the world give their mom’s some TLC. For some, that means bearing gifts or pampering them with food and service at home. For others, it involves giving their mothers some “me time” to enjoy life without having to worry about the family’s meals for the day. Some might even take their beloved mommas out on an excursion, perhaps somewhere relaxing and memorable. Whatever the plan might be, it will most likely involve the use of electricity, which may not always be available everywhere and all the time. Fortunately, BLUETTI has just the perfect products to deliver clean, quiet, and safe power anytime, anywhere, giving moms some much-needed peace of mind, whether it’s Mother’s Day or any other day.

Designer: BLUETTI

Click Here to Buy Now: Up to $700 off!

BLUETTI EB3A

Some moms might prefer to escape the hustle and bustle of cities and the noise of other humans during this weekend celebration. Camping out in the wild might be fun and reinvigorating, but worrying about modern conveniences is anything but relaxing. Need to keep her phone charged so she can instantly share those wonderful photos? How about coffee and warm food on demand? These are no problems for the BLUETTI EB3A, EB55, and EB70 compact and portable power stations, giving you all the electricity you need for a short wilderness trip or a magical sleepover under the night sky.

BLUETTI AC300 + BLUETTI B300 + BLUETTI B300

More adventurous mothers might prefer going places they haven’t been to before, and the Mother’s Day weekend is the perfect opportunity for a sightseeing road trip. With the BLUETTI AC200P, AC200MAX, and AC300, your mom won’t even have to worry about leaving the critical amenities of life behind. 2,000W to 3,000W of power is more than enough for the off-grid RV life, meeting the needs of almost any appliance, from refrigerators to hair dryers to CPAP machines. And if that much power still isn’t enough, you can expand the AC300 with B300 battery modules to bring it up to a whopping 12,288Wh. Thanks to fast and efficient solar charging as well as its clean operation, this BLUETTI AC series power stations let you enjoy life on the road as safely and as quietly as your mother would like.

BLUETTI AC500 + BLUETTI B300S

Mother’s Day might happen only once a year, but caring for these Wonder Women is an all-year-round job. Fortunately, BLUETTI’s powerful and sustainable solutions are useful any day, especially during those unexpected outages when you’re not around to help your mom. The BLUETTI modular AC500, which successfully raised $12 million from more than 5,000 believers on Indiegogo, can deliver 3,072Wh of power or even up to 18,432Wh when connected to multiple B300S battery modules. That’s enough to provide power to the entire household for a day or two, letting you use your 360W fridge or 1800W air conditioner during a blackout. The BLUETTI EP500 solar generator on wheels can also bring power to where it’s needed inside the house, offering enough juice for a 1500W electric grill, an 8000BTU A/C, or a 2000W coffee maker for hours.

Give your mother the perfect gift that will give her peace of mind, no matter the day of the year. BLUETTI is celebrating Mother’s Day by helping you save up to $700 on these portable power stations that prove their worth on any occasion. And with the company’s referral system, your friends receive a 5% discount, and you earn a BLUETTI buck for every dollar they spend. These BLUETTI power stations are more than just a one-off treat; they’re also a lifetime investment that will show your care and love for your mother every day of the year.

Click Here to Buy Now: Up to $700 off!

The post 3 Ways BLUETTI can make Mother’s Day extra special with portable power stations first appeared on Yanko Design.

BLUETTI Spring Sale brings all the power you need for an enjoyable time outdoors

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Spring is in the air, as they say. Although there are still some areas experiencing the last bits of freezing weather, it will only be a matter of time before white gives way to green. Spring is associated with many things, including life and feeling alive, especially after being cooped up indoors. Although “glamping” has become trendy, there are still plenty of people who prefer an authentic camping experience, but with just some of the conveniences that electricity brings to our modern lives. With a wide selection of portable power generators from BLUETTI, you can lay your anxieties to rest and enjoy the joys of enjoying the sun and the air while still keeping your laptops powered and your drinks cold.

AC500 & B300S

Although most people imagine camping or going outdoors to be full of moving around and cramped spaces, there will be times when you’d want to go big and bring everyone along for the adventure. Since you’ll never really know what you’ll need and when, picking a power storage solution that adjusts to your needs becomes more important than simply having power in the first place. The modular AC500 portable power station and its partner B300S battery module let you bring as little as 3,072Wh or as much as 18,432Wh of power, depending on your needs or your carrying capacity. That’s enough for a few nights of off-the-grid camping or even for powering your whole house during a power outage. A single AC500 and two B300S batteries start at $7,098, a big $500 discount off its regular $7,598 combo price.

Click Here to Buy Now: $4,599 $5,099 ($500 off). Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

EB3A

On the flip side, you might be looking for something really lightweight and portable, just enough for a few hours to escape the hectic city life. At only 10lbs, this 268Wh BLUETTI EB3A power station can power up a car fridge for 4 hours, a 10W light for 22 hours, and a 60W laptop for 4 hours straight. And since it can be charged with a solar panel for maximum of 200W charging power, you don’t have to race back to the city to scramble for a power outlet when its battery dips. Normally at $798, you can get the BLUETTI EB3A and a 200V PV200 Solar Panel for just $658, a $140 discount in time for spring camping.

Click Here to Buy Now: $209 $299 ($90 off). Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

EB70S

You might, however, need something that steps up the power just a wee bit. That’s where the EB70S comes in, with its 716Wh battery rated for 800W of power. It has plenty of ports to keep all kinds of devices and appliances powered up at a camp or a cookout, even including a wireless charging pad at the top for your phone. Although a bit hefty at 21.4lbs, the foldable handle makes it easy to carry around and keeps it compact enough for storage. The $519 starting price, an $80 cut from the usual $599, also makes this portable power station an all-around solution for most of your clean and green power needs.

Click Here to Buy Now: $519 $599.99 ($80 off). Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

AC300

BLUETTI’s lineup is filled with choices for every need and budget. For example, you might want a modular power station system but don’t need all the bells and whistles just yet. The AC300, with its 3,000W pure sine wave inverter and its 3,072Wh B300 expansion battery, have you covered, providing up to 12,228Wh of power when you finally do need that much. Whether just camping or living the RV life, this duo will bring lights and life to your outdoor trips. For just $5,397, which is $800 less than the standard $6,197 price tag, you can get the AC300 with not just one but two B300 batteries to give you the freedom to bring only what you need when you need it.

Click Here to Buy Now: $3,398 $3,898 ($500 off). Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

AC200MAX

While the AC500 and AC300 offer maximum flexibility, the AC200MAX brings the best of both worlds. On its own, it already puts out 2,048Wh of power, but you can stack up to two B230 batteries or two B300 batteries for a whopping total of 6,144Wh and 8,192Wh, respectively. It can power up to 14 different devices, thanks to its plethora of output ports, including not one but two wireless charging pads. The BLUETTI AC200MAX teams up with three PV200 solar panels to offer completely sustainable portable power for only $3,046, a large $450 discount from its $3,496 SRP.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1,699 $1,999 ($300 off). Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

AC200P

Packing a 2,000Wh battery in its 60.6lbs body, the AC200P offers well-balanced versatility and power in a compact package. When paired with a B300 battery module, you can boost that up to 5,072Wh, perfect for making coffee in the great outdoors or keeping a room chilled with the air conditioner during an emergency. This pair goes for only $3,398 during this spring season, bringing the regular $3,998 price down by $600.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1,399 $1,699 ($300 off). Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

Portable Solar Panels

While BLUETTI’s portable power stations are already impressive on their own, what really makes them special is how they can be charged completely through solar power only. Not only does that mean you don’t need to panic when the batteries go into the red, it also means you can leave off the grid far longer with green energy. Of course, you’ll need a high-efficiency portable solar panel for that, and unsurprisingly, BLUETTI also has got you covered. Using monocrystalline cells, these foldable solar panels boast 23.4% conversion efficiency, and the ETFE covering protects them from scratches and splashes. The 350W PV350 solar panel goes from $849 down to $769, saving you $80 for spring camping and trips.

Click Here to Buy Now. Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

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BLUETTI at CES 2023: Shaping a Better Tomorrow with Green Energy

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The more we become dependent on electronic devices, the more we become beholden to electricity. It’s a resource that many of us take for granted, expecting that it will always be there when we need it. Power shortages and outages, natural disasters, and remote locations, however, shatter those illusions, often leading to inconvenience or downright unlivable circumstances. The gasoline-chugging generators of old are no longer viable solutions, and battery-powered power stations have risen to the challenge of providing safe, quiet, and clean energy when access to the power grid is impossible. Of these, BLUETTI’s name is one that soars high above blue skies, so we had a little chat with them at CES 2023 to learn more about their past, their present, and their future vision for a greener tomorrow.

Blue Skies and Innovation

Bluetti AC300 & B300

Every company has an origin story, that one critical point in time when the seed of the company’s vision started to take root. Sometimes, that origin is immediately expressed in the company’s name. Other times, it is obscured by the company’s history. BLUETTI’s beginning might not be as dramatic as, say, Apple’s or Google’s, but its name carries a rather interesting background that explains its rather unusual moniker.

It’s almost too easy to presume that BLUETTI is an Italian word, and unsurprisingly, that has caused confusion about its pronunciation. The rather surprising truth is that BLUETTI is actually composed of a word and an acronym. The “BLUE” refers to “Blue Sky,” a reference to the company’s hope for a better Earth with blue skies instead of smog-filled heavens. The rest of the name refers to “Tomorrow, Technology, Innovation,” the pillars of the company’s commitment to supporting a sustainable lifestyle through green energy storage solutions.

The exact meaning of its name may not be that obvious to the world at large, but its spirit is easily witnessed in BLUETTI’s growing range of products. You might not know what the letters of its name stand for, but you’ll definitely know the promise that the company makes. Providing a more sustainable power source has always been BLUETTI’s rallying cry, one that has resounded among many customers if the latest crowdfunding figures are to be considered.

Wisdom of the Crowds

BLUETTI’s latest run on Indiegogo for the new AC500 modular power station and its B300S battery module partner raised a whopping $12 million from more than 5,000 backers. If that isn’t clear proof of belief in the brand, we don’t know what is. Given the prices for these portable power stations, that’s not an easy commitment you can make on a whim. It’s not hard to see, however, why so many people put their trust in BLUETTI.

Taking the AC500 and B300S as examples, the company was able to iterate, innovate, and improve on its already successful modular design, a design that delivers power in a mobile and flexible form. In addition to providing a wider variety of power outputs, the AC500 also ups the game by allowing as many as six 3,072Wh battery modules to be connected to the 5000W inverter for a jaw-dropping total of 18,432Wh of power. You can hot-swap these batteries at any time, adding or removing modules as needed. The connectors have also been redesigned to be easier to hold and handle, and resemble the nozzle of a gas pump that many drivers and car owners in the US would be familiar with.

That latter detail, though small, is an example of what keeps BLUETTI at the top of its game and above its peers. It keeps on innovating, doing intensive research for its target local market and adjusting its designs and campaigns around the American lifestyle and power situation. Multiple problems with power grid outages and disasters that affect power distribution have had very critical effects on people’s productivity and entertainment, which is where BLUETTI’s power stations come to the rescue. Its portable power stations and solar generators don’t consume fossil energy, don’t make noise, and don’t emit poisonous gas, all in line with the growing sustainability awareness among customers, both in the US and around the world.

It might come as a surprise, then, that all of BLUETTI’s designs are made in-house at their headquarters in China. It is a testament to the team’s talent and expertise in designing products for a certain demographic outside of their own. From the texture, shape, and size of the power stations, to the AC and DC connections, to the interactive panel, BLUETTI’s designs demonstrate a deep knowledge of what their customers need and what they want, and the success of their products even after crowdfunding is testament to that.

Innovation on a Larger Scale

Bluetti EP900 & B500

The battery-powered, solar-charged power station is relatively young, only three or so years old, and there is still plenty to be done and plenty of innovations yet to be made. Even BLUETTI admits there’s still plenty of room for growth, and it is setting its eyes on bigger things while keeping its feet planted firmly on solid ground. Its line of portable power stations isn’t going away, that’s for sure, but individual and small homes aren’t the only ones that can use clean and green energy storage.

The company’s next gamble is the EP900 and its partner, the B500 battery module. Big in size and capacity, the total package can provide as much as 79kWh of power at the flip of a switch, at least when combining 16 9kWh modules together. While it will definitely be overkill for camping, it will be necessary to power a whole house or even a small or medium size business (SMB). Given how these batteries can be charged using solar energy alone, that means you can almost run the whole house or business on completely green power. The EP900 marks BLUETTI’s entry into the residential power station market, and this standards-compliant power station is expected to launch sometime in March or April.

While the power stations provide sustainable energy, there might be lingering concerns about the sustainability of the batteries themselves. Unfortunately, those are unavoidable at this point in time, just as how many consumer electronics can’t get rid of non-sustainable materials and processes completely just yet. BLUETTI, however, is also doing due diligence in making sure it doesn’t become part of the problem that it’s trying to solve. With longevity that goes on for five years or more and warranties that can run up to 10 years, the company’s power stations are in for the long haul. It is also in talks with its partners in the US to make sure that batteries are recycled or disposed of properly to prevent them from becoming planet killers themselves.

Blue Sky, Green Tomorrow

BLUETTI is hardly the only player in this nascent market, and it definitely has some tough competition ahead. The company always has its doors open for new customers and also wants to point existing ones to resources that can help them make the most out of their power stations. The BLUETTI Support YouTube channel, for example, has plenty of guides for different products. The Official BLUETTI channel, on the other hand, not only has announcements and promotional materials but also videos on how BLUETTI can and has changed lives for the better. Some even found love through their shared love for the innovative power stations.

Whether it’s for an outdoor weekend trip or for an unexpected power outage, BLUETTI’s power stations stand ready to supply much-needed energy with none of the harmful consequences of traditional generators. More importantly, however, the company is paving the way for a future with more sustainable energy storage, no matter the need. From the small portable power stations to the upcoming residential line, BLUETTI will continue to innovate to help keep the lights on and keep the skies blue for today, tomorrow, and beyond.

The post BLUETTI at CES 2023: Shaping a Better Tomorrow with Green Energy first appeared on Yanko Design.

Anker 767 Portable Power Station Review: Heavy Hitter That’s Ready for Anything

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PROS:


  • More ergonomic suitcase design

  • First power station using GaN tech

  • Super-fast charging

  • Smartphone control via Bluetooth

CONS:


  • Expensive

  • Can't combine AC and DC input

  • Still no wireless charging

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

With a more ergonomic design and a large, fast-charging battery, the Anker 767 PowerHouse can deliver all the power you need in any situation if you're willing to make the rather hefty investment.

We have practically become servants to our electronic devices, as proven by the panic that sets in when we are deprived of the electricity needed to power our phones, laptops, and appliances. That’s why the market for power banks and power stations continues to grow at a rapid pace, churning out large batteries that come in every size and address every need. There’s no one size that fits all, just as different people have different power needs. Choosing a portable power station also involves making a choice between power and, of course, portability. There might be a certain sweet spot where you don’t have to make too much of a compromise between these two. That’s the promise that Anker’s latest 767 PowerHouse is making, and we give it a good push and pull to see if it can actually deliver.

Designer: Anker

Aesthetics

If there’s one thing that most portable power stations have in common, it’s that they are pretty much variations of an ice cooler design, the larger ones most especially. These often come as huge rectangular boxes with handles that jut out from the sides that are supposed to make them easier to carry. Given their weight, that’s almost never the case, and it seems that Anker finally got the message.

The new Anker 767 PowerHouse Portable Power Station deviates from the norm in one very important way. There are now two wheels on one edge that already make it significantly easier to move it around. To that, however, Anker added a telescopic handle that you can pull out to help you pull the power station behind you. In other words, the Anker 767 is designed more like a suitcase, albeit one that lies on its back. It’s a marked step away from the relatively young Anker 757 PowerHouse that we reviewed recently, but considering how much it now weighs, that’s a much-welcomed improvement.

It’s not just the shape that has changed, though. The Anker 767 also drops the dual color scheme of its predecessor, another hallmark of that cooler design. It still has bits of silver, but now mostly as accents against a predominantly black box, with a touch of light blue here and there. The overall design also looks a bit more refined now, like how the LED bar light’s button is now embedded in the strip and looks almost invisible. The LCD screen now also displays colors, which thankfully only takes sips of power out of the battery. If you’re not a fan, you can always turn it off via the button on the front of the power station.

In most other cases, the design of the Anker 767 remains similar and familiar, and that’s actually a plus. All the output ports are still on the front for easy access, with the charging ports hidden behind a cover on the back. There are grilles on both sides for ventilation, and they now come in a snazzier diagonal design. All these elements work together to give the power station a more mature look, which will hopefully inspire more confidence in Anker’s product line.

Ergonomics

Anker calls the 767 PowerHouse its most powerful yet, and it’s also its heaviest. While it’s not the largest in the market, its 67lb heft is no joking matter. Fortunately, it doesn’t expect you to carry it with muscle power alone, though you can still definitely do that with the two handles at the sides. This time, however, Anker is employing one of man’s greatest inventions to lighten that load.

Two wheels on one side and an extensible handle on the other finally give your back a much-needed break before you actually break it from lifting such a heavy object. You’ll still have to lift one side, though, to actually get rolling, but it’s a far more ergonomic design than simple handles. It would have probably been better if you could pull or push the power station without even lifting it, but that would require four wheels and a drastic redesign of the product.

The same features that made the Anker 757 easy to use are thankfully unchanged here. All the most frequently used ports and buttons are on the front, and there are no rubber flaps other than on the two car sockets (yes, there are two of them!). That gives you easy and unrestricted access to the ports that you need the most instead of wasting time fiddling with covers and forgetting to put them back on again.

Performance

The Anker 767 PowerHouse’s claim to fame is, of course, its large battery, the largest that the brand has to offer so far. That’s a whopping 2,048Wh battery with a power output of 2,400W. That’s enough power to get you through any situation for days, whether it’s a power outage or a weekend camping trip. It has enough power to run even a portable fridge for about three days, let alone charge phones and laptops multiple times over. With the proper neutral-ground plug, Anker says you can even charge an electric car using this power station!

That battery is, of course, made using the now-standard LiFePO4 material, the same that’s used in electric vehicles for their reliability and long life. What’s new to the Anker 767, however, is GaNPrime, Anker’s brand of Gallium Nitride technology. Without going into the technical nitty gritty, this means that the PowerHouse is able to charge not only faster but also more efficiently while also reducing energy loss while in use. The Anker 767 charges from zero to full in about two hours when plugged into an AC outlet. Using five 200W solar panels for a total 1,000W input, the battery can be fully charged in two and a half hours. Unfortunately, Anker hasn’t figured out yet how to combine AC and solar charging for even faster charging speeds.

When it comes to output, Anker really outdid itself this time. There are admittedly fewer AC ports, now just four instead of six like on the Anker 757 PowerHouse, and the USB-A ports have been halved to just two. This is more in response to the changing times when there are more devices that can be charged or powered through USB-C, and the Anker 767 has three of these, each putting out 100W independently. There are also two car ports, oddly enough, one of which can probably be converted to a USB port with the right accessory. There’s still no wireless charging, which is unfortunate, given how clean and flat the power station’s top is.

The Anker 767 finally adopts a feature that has become a staple among other portable power stations these days. It finally has a mobile app that lets you monitor the power station’s stats and flick a few switches from afar. What’s a bit different in Anker’s implementation is that the connection between the 767 PowerHouse and your phone is Bluetooth only. This is a huge advantage when using the portable battery outdoors since you won’t have to mess with ad-hoc Wi-Fi settings and such. Anker is a bit late to the party in this regard, but, as they say, better late than never.

Sustainability

Despite the design change, the Anker 767 PowerHouse still suffers the same weaknesses as its predecessors when it comes to sustainability. The power station itself is built using traditional materials, which include plenty of plastics. Whatever environmental gains it has mostly come indirectly through its features rather than its very nature.

Anker still makes the same proposition of using green energy to deliver your power needs, presuming you go with solar charging. Of course, using batteries instead of fuel is already a huge sustainability win, but hopefully, the company won’t stop there. Unfortunately, it will probably take some time before Anker and its competitors start going down this road of using more sustainable materials and processes since that might not be their priority this early in the game.

It does, however, paint power efficiency and power saving as wins for the environment. GaNPrime, for example, can help save energy over time, reducing the total carbon footprint. The Anker 767 also automatically turns off AC output when nothing is connected after 15 minutes or turns off any output port once a connected device is fully charged. These definitely help conserve power in the long run, but it still mostly depends on how people use the device rather than something inherent to it.

Value

Given the larger battery inside and its new design and features, it probably shouldn’t be a surprise that the Anker 767 PowerHouse costs quite a bit, but that price tag may still shock you regardless. With an SRP of $2,199, it’s definitely one of the more expensive options with this battery capacity. And since it doesn’t exist in a bubble, it will be hard not to compare it with its closest competitors.

The EcoFlow Delta MAX 2000, for example, has the same 2,048Wh/2,400W LiFePO4 battery, and while it doesn’t make use of GaN technology, it does boast dual charging by using both AC and solar at the same time. It’s only slightly cheaper at $2,099 but is currently discounted down to $1,599. The Bluetti AC200MAX has a lower 2,200W output and fewer output ports but does also have dual charging and a significantly lower $1,899 starting price. Neither EcoFlow’s nor Bluetti’s contenders, however, have wheels to make them easier to move around.

There’s no denying that the Anker 767 PowerHouse lives up to its name, but that price tag could be an instant deal-breaker for many people. Fortunately, Anker holds plenty of sale events with large discounts, so it might just be a matter of bidding your time for that moment to strike.

Verdict

When it comes to emergency power, the ideal solution is a rechargeable that checks all the right P’s of power, portability, and price. Given current technologies and the economy, however, that’s not an easy balance to strike. The Anker 767 PowerHouse easily checks the power box with its 2,048Wh battery and GaNPrime technology, offering efficiency and fast-charging speeds all in one go. Thankfully, its new design also meets the portability requirement by adding wheels to the package. Price, on the other hand, is a touchy subject, at least for the full standard price tag. It is definitely quite the investment, but one that will easily pay for itself if you find yourself spending a lot more time outdoors or always stressing over blackouts. In those situations, the Anker 767 PowerHouse Portable Power Station is indeed ready for anything to help you live a more convenient life in any given situation.

The post Anker 767 Portable Power Station Review: Heavy Hitter That’s Ready for Anything first appeared on Yanko Design.

EcoFlow River 2 Portable Power Station Review: A Capable Outdoor Sidekick

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PROS:


  • Very light and portable

  • Fast AC charging

  • Remote phone control

  • USB-C port can be used for input

CONS:


  • Handle position makes carrying a bit awkward

  • No wireless charging despite new design

  • USB-C output capped at 60W

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

With a truly portable body, solid features, fast AC charging, and a sweet price point, the EcoFlow River 2 lets travelers and adventurers just get up and go, leaving their battery anxieties well behind.

We have become so dependent on our electronic devices that many of us get anxiety attacks when their batteries go red and we’re nowhere near a wall socket. There are plenty of power banks available today, but they’re only capable of handling smartphones and a few low-power laptops just two or three times at best. For anything else, you might be more interested in the new portable power stations that can power even some appliances, including a whole house. That kind of power might be overkill for some, especially since they come in large and unwieldy bodies that cost as much as they weigh. For simpler cases, you might be better off with smaller, lighter, and more affordable options, so we take the new EcoFlow River 2 for a run to see if it can meet those demands.

Aesthetics

As with any second-generation product, the EcoFlow River 2 has been able to learn from the lessons of its predecessors. Given the gap between the first and second EcoFlow Rivers, there has definitely been plenty of lessons to serve as the foundations of a better product. Fortunately, EcoFlow did seem to have benefited from hindsight, allowing it to turn the River 2 into a sleeker and more compact power station that no longer looks like a car battery.

The biggest change you will notice comparing the two generations is that the River 2 has a more refined appearance thanks to its dual-tone color scheme and flat top. The large carrying handle no longer arcs over the top but instead juts out from the back. That makes it easier to stash the power station away in cramped spaces and put things on top of it. Having the handle extend to one side only also reduces the space it needs to occupy. This helps give the box a cleaner look, but relocating the carrying handle does have its share of consequences as well.

The EcoFlow River 2 also looks tidier because of how the ports and vents are all arranged. Granted, there are now fewer of them compared to the first River power station, but the needs of devices and their charging methods have also become simpler since then. All the output ports are now in the front, while the charging ports are all on the back. There is actually nothing at the sides or on the top to mar those clean surfaces, giving the power station a more streamlined appearance. The black and silver color combination is also more in line with the rest of EcoFlow’s power stations, giving the brand a more coherent and consistent visual identity.

Despite the reduction of ports, the River 2 portable power station still offers a standard set of features for both AC-powered appliances and gadgets that charge over DC. There are still standard ports for different charging methods, including solar power. You still have an LCD screen to monitor the battery’s status, though it’s now a monochrome display, perhaps to save on power consumption. The one thing that has disappeared, though, is the LED flashlight which is honestly pointless at this size and intensity. A phone’s torch function or a proper flashlight will be more useful.

Ergonomics

After having reviewed some heavy-duty power stations that can power a house or even charge an electric car, it’s quite refreshing to finally have one that is accurately portable and that won’t break your back or your bank account, for that matter. At 7.7lbs, there’s definitely still quite a bit of heft, but considering what it’s capable of doing, that’s not asking too much. Of course, it will have some limitations considering the battery capacity, but it is designed to be more agile and portable for people who need to get up and going quickly rather than for those who need an alternative to the power grid.

Carrying the EcoFlow River 2, however, might be difficult for some other purpose. With the carrying handle now at the back, the box’s center of gravity is changed when you lift it up. There will be an uneven distribution of weight, and it could make carrying River 2 more awkward and uncomfortable. The body of the power station will be extending sideways and could end up hitting your leg or other things along your way, depending on who you’re carrying it. The good news is that it’s less of a problem with the River 2’s smaller and lighter body than it is for its bigger siblings, the River 2 Max and River 2 Pro.

Since all the ports are now consolidated and limited to two sides only, it’s also easier to manage the cables that will be sticking out of the power station. Plugging in those cables is also easy because there are no flaps to cover the sockets. There are, however, switches for the AC and DC ports but none for the USB ports. These switches can be pressed manually or toggled via a mobile app. The AC and DC input for charging are located on the back right under the carrying handle. That might actually make it a little bit cumbersome to push cables in because your hand might hit the handle in the process.

One of the biggest ergonomic upgrades of the EcoFlow River 2 is that you don’t actually have to even touch it to control it. Now that it has support for connecting to a phone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, you can toggle switches and change settings conveniently with a few taps. The companion mobile app is quite easy to understand and use, and it gives you the right amount of information to keep tabs on how much power you’re taking in and pushing out. Of course, the built-in LCD screen can provide some of that as well, but it’s more convenient to do so from a larger display.

Performance

The EcoFlow River 2 carries a 256Wh battery of the LiFePO4 kind. This is, by now, the most common kind of battery used by portable power stations because of its safety, reliability, and longevity. It will take more than 3,000 charging cycles (zero to full) before it starts to lose its full capacity. That means this power station is here for the long haul, and you’re more likely to replace it with a new model sooner than for it to become unusable.

With that battery capacity, the River 2 can output 300W of power or 600W if you’re using EcoFlow’s X-Boost. In theory, that’s enough to support even water heaters or coffee makers, but that might be pushing your luck. The portable power station is admittedly on the small and low side, which limits what it can power. It can keep a refrigerator running for 3 hours, for example, but only the small, car-type ones that can be powered with 60W DC. The River 2’s AC two 110 AC outlets are better for powering small appliances or charging devices that can’t be charged over USB.

There is no wireless charging, despite the flat surface of the River 2’s top. It’s less of a critical flaw and more of a missed opportunity, especially with many devices supporting wireless charging these days. It would have definitely been a welcome convenience, especially when you imagine how you’d simply place your iPhone on top of the power station and then sit back and relax under the sun or the stars. Then again, that same iPhone can charge via USB anyway, or even with an AC charger if necessary.

As for those USB ports, the EcoFlow River 2 has two USB-A ports and a single USB-C port. The latter maxes out at 60W, which is fine for phones and tablets but is barely sufficient for more power-hungry laptops. What makes this port special is that, unlike other portable power stations, it functions both as output as well as input, meaning you can charge the power station itself via USB-C, provided you have one of the more powerful 60W or 100W power bricks. It’s not going to be fast, but it’s convenient when you don’t have the AC charging cord with you.

Charging is actually where this new portable power station shines. In addition to USB-C charging, which is still uncommon even for power stations of this size, the River 2 supports the usual charging options of AC, solar, and car charging. At the maximum 360W (with X-Stream) input, AC charging only takes up an hour to go from zero to full, just enough time for you to pack your things for an outdoor adventure. Going completely green with solar charging at 110W max does take longer at around 3 hours, but it might be your only option when you’re already camping under the wide skies. Unfortunately, you can’t combine charging methods, even AC and USB-C, but that might not make much sense for a battery of this size anyway.

Like many of EcoFlow’s power stations, the River 2 also has an EPS or Emergency Power Supply feature that can automatically switch from AC input to direct DC output in just 30ms. That’s fast enough to prevent a desktop computer from powering down or any connected appliance from being interrupted. The battery capacity makes it less viable as a complete power grid replacement, but that’s hardly the point of this power station anyway. The EcoFlow River 2 is designed to be agile and light on its feet, freeing you to move and go as you please without being weighed down, literally and figuratively.

Sustainability

Almost no power station at this point has made sustainability a core focus of their designs, and the River 2 is unfortunately similar. While these battery-powered boxes do offer a more sustainable alternative to fuel-chugging generators, their very nature isn’t as eco-friendly. There’s clearly a ton of plastic used, especially with their enclosures, regardless of the use of metal for the internal frame. We’re still hoping that these companies will soon pay particular attention to the materials and processes they use to make sustainability a major bullet point.

Unlike larger power stations that can be used to power a whole house, solar charging feels more like an extra perk than a selling point for the EcoFlow River 2. It’s something you’ll want to use for convenience when charging the battery outdoors rather than pulling from your car’s battery. Given its size and purpose, it might be more efficient to charge it from a wall socket at full blast, but it at least offers you the option to choose solar if you’re not in a rush.

Value

Not everyone needs a full-blown power generator the size of a suitcase, especially when traveling light. Some might only need what would be the equivalent of a dozen power banks that can power small AC appliances. It’s for these people that the EcoFlow River 2 shines the brightest, especially with its $229 price tag.

There are actually few power stations in the market that offer this kind of well-balanced quality in a small, compact package. Some are cheaper but also offer a lower battery capacity with fewer ports and a cumbersome design. Others have a bit more power but are also heavier and proportionally more expensive.

Verdict

Picking out a portable power station these days is almost like choosing a smartphone. Disregarding brand, the decision always involves making a series of compromises on features and price. For power stations, size and weight become critical factors, especially for people who find themselves spending brief periods outdoors more often than not. For these people, it isn’t just important to have power but to have that power available in a flash.

Having a lightweight body with a decent battery capacity already gives the EcoFlow River 2 an edge, but being able to charge itself in just an hour puts it at the top. Yes, we wished it had wireless charging and a 100W USB-C output, but these would be “nice to have” rather than critical needs. It won’t be powering your whole house in an emergency, but it will be able to provide critical power to the most important things in your life, regardless of the situation. When you need a solid and truly portable companion for your modern life on the go, it’s hard to go wrong with the EcoFlow River 2.

The post EcoFlow River 2 Portable Power Station Review: A Capable Outdoor Sidekick first appeared on Yanko Design.

Anker 757 PowerHouse Portable Power Station Review: a heavyweight in more ways than one

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PROS:


  • Super-fast 1000W charging

  • Effective cooling system

  • Bright LED light bar

  • Plenty of power and ports for many use cases

CONS:


  • Very heavy

  • A bit expensive

  • No water or dust resistance

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

While it is a heavyweight in both price and mass, the Anker 757 PowerHouse power station offers a suitable balance of power, flexibility, and charging speed you won't find elsewhere.

When you’re away from a power socket and need to top up your phone, a simple power bank is more than enough. Some can even charge a laptop or at least keep it from discharging quickly. When you need to power up plenty of devices and a few appliances, however, you will definitely need something that’s bigger, not just in battery capacity but also in size. Portable power stations have been popping up left and right, providing plenty of options to choose from. Unfortunately, that also sometimes makes it harder to make a decision, especially when so many of them sound so similar. That said, there are still only a handful of notable players in this market, and Anker is one of the newest to jump into the scene. The brand is quite well known for its portable power banks for mobile devices, so we take the 757 PowerHouse for a spin to see if it also has some of that Anker magic.

Designer: Anker

Aesthetics

Truth be told, the Anker 757 PowerHouse is no looker, but then again, most of its kind isn’t either, anyway. Portable power stations, sometimes also called portable solar generators, have only been around for a few years, so it’s not exactly surprising to see that their designs haven’t matured to the point of being called “beautiful.” There is a greater focus on durability, safety, utility, and functionality than aesthetics at this point, and this battery in a large box definitely exhibits those properties.

That’s not to say that the 757 PowerHouse is unattractive. In a certain angle and light, it actually has a distinct personality to it. The contrast between the black body and silver edges is tasteful, and the way those edges cross over at the top is a nice touch. The blue accents on the ventilation slots and USB ports, along with the long LED strip, even give it a pinch of cyberpunk aesthetics. There is also a large, 5-inch LCD screen underneath that light bar for showing necessary information. That screen also adds a little something to the PowerHouse’s hi-tech looks.

Make no mistake, despite the brushed metal appearance of the edges and the rugged style of the power station, the 757 PowerHouse’s skin is made of plastic. Perhaps the more disappointing aspect is that it doesn’t have any certified water or dust resistance either, which is an ironic omission given this device is meant to be used outdoors.

Like most portable power station makers save for EcoFlow, Anker chose to stick with a traditional box design with one exception. There are two large handles on the top sides designed to assist in carrying this hefty power source. There is no way to get those handles out of the way, though, so they will always be sticking out of its sides no matter what. That could prove to be a stumbling block when you’re trying to cram the 757 PowerHouse in narrow spaces.

Ergonomics

If you were expecting a large battery such as this would be heavy, you won’t be disappointed by the Anker 757 PowerHouse. Then again, you might actually be more disappointed that it’s not exactly as portable as its name suggests. At 43.9lbs (19.9kg), it definitely requires some upper body strength to lift and move around. The placement of the sturdy handles definitely helps, but not by much. One should always be careful when lifting and carrying a heavy load such as this, and it might be wiser to employ something like a trolley if you find yourself moving it around more often than not.

Usability is critical for power stations because the last thing you want in a power outage is to fumble for controls and covers. The 757 PowerHouse definitely makes it easy since all output ports except the car charger are actually already open, ready to be used at any time. All these ports are also located on the front, making cable management easier by having all cords coming out from only one side, at least as far as output power is concerned.

To charge the power station itself, you’ll have to open the flap on the back to expose the AC input port as well as the solar and car charging ports. Fortunately, there is no separate charging brick needed to fill the 757 PowerHouse, making it easier to store and carry around without having to worry about leaving a critical accessory behind.

Performance

The Anker 757 PowerHouse carries a 1229Wh battery inside that’s capable of putting out 1500W of power, 2400W if you’re really pushing it with power surge. Like many modern power stations, it uses Lithium Iron Phosphate or LiFePO4, the same type of battery used in electric vehicles. Compared to the typical Lithium-ion battery type used in smartphones and laptops, LiFePO4 is considered not only safe but also longer lasting, able to stay healthy for 3,000 charging cycles.

Just with numbers alone, the power station is capable of handling even a 360W refrigerator for almost three hours or a 700W microwave in short bursts. Charging mobile devices and laptops is obviously no problem at that rate, and it can cycle through charging dozens of times over. You can even use the 757 PowerHouse as an uninterruptible power supply or UPS with a switchover time of under 20ms. Of course, the overall number of hours the box can remain powered up will depend on how many devices are connected at the same time. That 1500W output, for example, has to be shared across all six AC outlets.

There is definitely no shortage of output port options to keep devices and appliances running, no matter the situation. As mentioned, there are six AC ports, three of which are of the three-pronged socket type. For DC output, there are four 12W USB-A ports, one 60W USB-C port, and one 100W USB-C port. All of these, including the 120W car socket, can be used simultaneously. The bright and helpful LCD display gives all the stats you need to keep on top of your power consumption, including how much power devices are drawing. Despite the very flat top, the 757 PowerHouse, unfortunately, doesn’t have a wireless charging pad.

Where Anker’s largest portable power station really shines is charging the battery itself. With AC power alone, the 757 PowerHouse can take in 1000W of power for an extremely fast charging experience. Going from 2% to full took only 1.3 hours, which is close to Anker’s advertised 1.5-hour total charging time. Of course, you can also go completely green by charging off the sun, and with three solar panels for a total of 300W of sun power, you can fully charge the PowerHouse in under four hours.

Given the fast charging speed and its impressive output, you might think that the Anker 757 PowerHouse will often run hot or, alternatively, be very loud. It was a pleasant surprise to discover that was not the case at all, and the box remained at most warm to the touch during its 1000W charging period. It does have fans inside, and they will spin after a certain point, but they are actually quiet and barely audible at worst.

Sustainability

Portable power stations are a relatively younger market, at least compared to their smaller power bank cousins. Like many mass-produced consumer electronics at that stage, it is more focused on establishing a solid foundation, even if it means making sustainability less of a priority. A bit ironic given their “green” features, but not entirely surprising. As such, there is plenty of plastic and environment-unfriendly materials used in the construction of every single 757 PowerHouse.

That said, there are two things that do go in favor of Anker in this regard. One is that, by nature, portable power stations like these are more sustainable compared to traditional gasoline generators. They are quieter and safer than those fuel-chugging machines, and they don’t directly increase carbon emissions.

More importantly, they can actually go fully green by charging using only solar power. It admittedly takes longer than direct AC charging, but it’s also more flexible when there are no power sockets available in the first place. Unfortunately, this particular power station doesn’t support dual input from both solar and AC, which could make charging more efficient and take up less time.

Value

The Anker Power 757 PowerHouse is a rather large battery-powered generator, though it is by no means the largest nor the heaviest in its class. At $1,399, it is also more expensive than some of its peers that carry the same battery capacity, and that figure might cause many buyers to reconsider their choice. It’s also strange that, for something designed for outdoor use, it isn’t guaranteed to be safe from water and dust. Fortunately, those might be the only deal-breakers for this portable power station, and some people might be willing to overlook those flaws for everything else they will be able to gain.

For its size, the 757 PowerHouse definitely packs an appropriate amount of power that it makes available through a wide variety of ports. It has plenty to run small appliances, whether during an emergency or for weekend camping, and its fast-charging feat means you won’t have to wait long before it’s full and ready to go. There are only a few competitors that can match its offer, though each has its own set of drawbacks. It’s always a delicate balancing act, and the Anker 757 PowerHouse definitely pulls it off with grace.

Verdict

As the number of portable power stations grows, picking out the perfect one also becomes harder. There really is no perfect choice, and you’ll often find yourself having to compromise between a few factors instead. Whether it’s price, portability, or power, you will eventually have to make a choice on which is more important. While hardly perfect, the Anker 757 PowerHouse presents an acceptable balance. Its 1500W power allows it to address almost every need, and its 1000W charging speed is pretty much unmatched. You will need to prepare to make a rather heavy investment and prepare your back for an equally heavy load, but it’s hard to get it wrong with a balanced all-rounder like this heavyweight PowerHouse.

The post Anker 757 PowerHouse Portable Power Station Review: a heavyweight in more ways than one first appeared on Yanko Design.