Home Heating Heroes
Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we earn a commission if you click through and purchase. Learn more
Your Guide to Home Heating and Cooling Systems
Menu
9 Best Solar Generators of 2022 - Complete Buying Guide
For those interested in clean and renewable energy, a solar generator is a great choice. With free energy from the sun, low maintenance costs, and quiet operation, there’s a litany of reasons to invest in one. However, there are several different options on the market and choosing the right solar generator takes some research.
When you are looking for the top solar generators, consider cost and wattage. Here are some of the best solar generators on the market this year, including which ones are the most affordable, have the highest energy capacity, and best for specific uses.
If you’re looking for the best combination of power, price, and effectiveness, look no further than the Jackery Explorer 240 Solar Generator. An extremely affordable solar generator manufactured by a top-of-the-line company, features like a rechargeable 240 Wh lithium power pack, along with AC-outlet, car port, and USB outlets make this generator a must-have.
Easily portable because it’s compact and lightweight — it’s the lightest in its class — this solar generator can be recharged anywhere.
Table of Contents
t
t
PROS
SPECS
Best Choice
Jackery Explorer 240
PROS
-
High capacity Generator
-
Light and compact
-
Recharged anywhere
SPECS
-
240Wh energy capacity
-
Rechargeable lithium-ion power pack
-
Recharges from 50W solar panel
-
Weighs 6.6lbs
t
Goal Zero Yeti 150
PROS
-
Can power up to 5 devices at once
-
Charge It Anywhere
-
Ideal shape and size for traveling
SPECS
-
168 watt-hour power bank
-
Lead-acid battery
-
Operates from 32-104°F
-
80W modified-sine wave AC inverter
t
Jackery Explorer 500
PROS
-
Easily stored in RVs
-
High energy capacity
-
Recharge anywhere
SPECS
-
Pure Sine Wave Inverter
-
BMS System
-
Battery Capacity: 518Wh
-
AC Output: 110V, 500W
t
Renogy Phoenix 246.24Wh/150W
PROS
-
All-in-one portable solar power system
-
Compact and lightweight
-
Gripped sturdy handle
SPECS
-
246.24Wh of energy
-
17.1Ah lithium-ion (neck) battery
-
150W continuous output power
-
60 Hz output AC frequency
t
Suaoki 400Wh/120,000mAh
PROS
-
Large LCD screen
-
Battery Management System
-
Versatile with devices
SPECS
-
Force of 110 volts
-
Quiet 300W DC/AC Inverter
-
Powered by lithium-ion battery
-
Maximum 444Wh capacity
9 Best Solar Generator Reviews
1. Jackery Explorer 240 Solar Generator – Best Overall
The Jackery Explorer 240 Solar Generator is a portable generator with an affordable price point. Extremely lightweight at 6.6 pounds, it’s ideal for people who love camping, fishing, or running small outdoor events.
This generator is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion power pack with a 240Wh energy capacity. That’s enough energy to power cell phones, laptops, GoPros, drones, mini-projectors, mini-refrigerators, and other small-power appliances. If you are using a 50W solar panel, it fully recharges in 10 hours. However, if you are using an AC-outlet or carport, it recharges in just 8 hours.
A noise-free generator that doesn’t vibrate; it also has zero emissions, so there are no harmful fumes. This solar generator is useful in emergencies. This is not just because it can charge cell phones or laptops. It can be used to power medical devices such as CPAP machines and or infusion pumps that owners might need in the event of a power outage.
Specs
-
240Wh energy capacity
-
Rechargeable lithium-ion power pack
-
Recharges from 50W solar panel
-
Recharges from AC-outlets and car ports
Pros
-
Extremely lightweight and portable
-
Recharges within 8-10 hours
-
Rechargeable lithium power pack
-
Can be recharged anywhere
Cons
-
Not the most powerful solar generator
Who Should Get This?
The Jackery Explorer 240 Solar Generator is perfect for those who need a portable generator to power their small appliances while they’re car camping. It is also ideal for those who care for an at-home patient and need back-up power for medical devices.
2. Goal Zero Yeti 150 Solar Generator – Best for the Money
Priced below two hundred dollars, the Goal Zero Yeti 150 Power Station is a highly affordable solar generator. Although it’s not the most powerful solar generator at 168Wh, it can power up to five devices at once, including phones, tablets, cameras, and other small devices. With that energy capacity, it’s able to charge a phone 15 times, a tablet 6 times, and a laptop twice.
The lead-acid battery is rechargeable from AC-outlet, 12V outlet, or solar panel, and it has a continuous 180W, 160W surge modified-sine wave inverter. This plug-and-play and fume-free generator could be highly useful while outdoors, especially for people who love to camp. It’s useful in emergencies as well. The Goal Zero Yeti 150 is a simple and inexpensive solar generator, but it’s reliable.
Specs
-
Lead-acid battery
-
168Wh energy capacity
-
Continuous 80W, 160W surge modified-sine wave inverter
-
Operates in temperatures from 32-104°F
Pros
-
Most affordable solar generator in its class
-
Can power up to five devices at once
-
Charges from AC-outlet, 12V outlet, or solar panel
Cons
-
Not the most powerful solar generator
Who Should Get This?
This is another solar generator that’s perfect for car camping, as it has a high enough energy capacity to power multiple cell phones and laptops at once.
3. Jackery Explorer 500 Solar Generator
The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 is manufactured by one of the premier suppliers of outdoor green power solutions. Featuring a Pure Sine Wave Inverter, this solar generator can power a wide range of devices, including phones, laptops, TVs, projectors, and pellet grills. It can also power a number of car appliances, including car coolers and air pumps.
With a 100W solar panel, this solar generator recharges within 14 hours. Using a car port, it charges within 16 hours. However, using an AC wall outlet, it recharges within 8 hours.
It has a Battery Management System (BMS) that safeguards against excessive voltage, excessive current, and extreme temperatures, so this is one of the most reliable solar generators on the market. Although it has a higher price point than some of the other solar generators, it should be near the top of everyone’s list.
Specs
-
Pure Sine Wave Inverter
-
BMS System
-
Portable Power Station rechargeable everywhere
-
Lithium-ion technology
Pros
-
High energy capacity
-
Rechargeable from car port, AC-outlet, and 100W solar panel
-
Pure Sine Wave Inverter
-
Battery Management System (BMS) safeguards during usage
Cons
-
Higher price point
Who Should Get This?
The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 is a great solar generator for those who enjoy RV road trips and camping, as its powerful enough to provide energy to a number of appliances.
4. Renogy Phoenix 246.24Wh/150W Solar Generator
The Renogy Phoenix 246.24Wh/150W portable generator is an intriguing solar generator because it’s compact and lightweight, but also highly efficient. Easily portable and ideal for off-grid applications, it features Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) to make it easy to find the perfect position for charging. While it includes Rangy 20W Mono-crystalline solar panels, it can expand up to 100 watts with additional solar panels.
Although it’s unsuitable for large appliances, it’s a versatile solar generator with 4 USB ports, 2 DC ports, and an AC outlet. The combination of features and strengths of the Renogy Phoenix 246.24Wh/150W portable generator shows that while it’s not the most powerful solar generator, it’s perfect for individuals who are on-the-go outdoors. If you enjoy camping, hunting, fishing, and road trips, you’ll find plenty of use for this solar generator.
Specs
-
Rangy 20W Mono-crystalline solar panels
-
17.1Ah lithium-ion (neck) battery
-
150W continuous output power
-
60 Hz output AC frequency
Pros
-
Compact and lightweight
-
Ideal for mobile, off-grid applications
-
Ideal for emergencies
-
Charges very quickly
Cons
-
Not suitable for large appliances
Who Should Get This?
The Renogy Phoenix 246.24Wh/150W portable generator is ideal for outdoorsmen who find themselves needing a power source while out hunting, fishing, or camping.
5. Suaoki 400Wh/120,000mAh Solar Generator – Top Choice for Multi-Purpose Use
Manufactured by one of China’s premier technology companies, the Suaoki 400Wh/120,000mAh Portable Generator Power Station Power Supply is one of the most versatile solar generators. With continuous 300W, 600W surge pure sine AC inverters, this generator can supply power to a wide range of electronics. Some of these include lighting fixtures, USB electronic devices, and mini-fridges. It can even jump-start a 4L gas car.
The 400Wh energy capacity allows it to separate itself from some other solar generators on the market, as it has both indoor and outdoor use. Because of this, it can be used in the office, at home, for emergencies, and for outdoor activities like camping.
One of the key features of this solar generator is its Battery Management System (BMS), as it safeguards against over-current, overheating, and over-voltage issues. It can be refueled using 12V or 24V car ports, AC-outlets, and Suaoki’s 60W or 100W solar panels.
Specs
-
Continuous 300W, 600W surge pure sine AC inverters
-
Powered by lithium-ion battery
-
Force of 110 volts
-
Quiet 300W DC/AC Inverter
Pros
-
Versatile with devices
-
Maximum 444Wh capacity
-
Large LCD screen
-
Battery Management System
Cons
-
Shorter warranty than other solar generators
Who Should Get This?
The Suaoki 400Wh/120,000mAh Portable Generator Power Station Power Supply is great for those looking to use a solar generator for multi-purpose indoor and outdoor use.
6. Coolis 150Wh Solar Generator
The Coolis 150Wh Portable Power Inverter Generator Power Station is one of the more unique solar generators, as it has a universal input that makes it suitable for international use. With a 110V AC output, a 12V DC output, and a 5V USB output, this generator can power up devices like phones, laptops, and printers, along with appliances like lamps and coffee makers.
It’s Battery Management System (BMS) safeguards against over-voltage, over-current, short-circuiting, and overheating. It automatically switches to the DC outlet when the AC device exceeds 100W and temporarily shuts off when the DC device exceeds 180W. The BMS also extends battery life.
This generator can be recharged using a 100W solar panel, a wall charger, and a 12V car charger. However, if you are using a solar panel, it takes nearly 3 days for it to recharge completely. Using a car charger recharges in approximately 8 hours while using a wall charger recharges in approximately 7 hours.
Specs
-
110V AC output, 12V DC output, 5V USB output
-
Built-in Smart Energy Control (SEC)
-
Battery Management System (BMS)
-
Weighs 4.4. pounds
Pros
-
Affordable price point
-
Universal input for international use
-
Fully charges within 8 hours
-
Battery Management System (BMS)
Cons
-
Lower energy capacity
-
Short-term warranty
Who Should Get This?
For those who frequent other countries either for work or leisure, the Coolis 150Wh Portable Power Inverter Generator Power Station makes powering your devices much easier.
7. Rockpals RP250W Solar Generator
The Rockpals 250W Portable Solar Generator is a reliable generator that is recommended for use in the event of emergencies due to the amount of power it generates. It has a continuous 250W surge with a maximum of 300W, allowing it to charge devices like phones, iPads, laptops, and TVs, along with medical devices like CPAP machines. It can also charge appliances like fans and lights.
In the events of power outages that occur naturally or because of natural disasters, it’s one of the handiest solar generators. With a Pure Sine Wave Inverter, inductive loads run quieter, cooler, and faster. Audible and electric noise in lights, fans, amplifiers, TVs, and fax machines is reduced.
Furthermore, as it’s a gas-free power supply, there are no exhaust fumes to harm people or the environment. It is rechargeable through 60W or 100W solar panels, wall outlets, and car ports. The generator charges in 8 hours if using a wall socket.
Specs
-
250W continuous (300W surge max) dual AC outputs
-
240WH (3.7V 64.8Ah/12V 20Ah) lithium-ion polymer batteries
-
Pure Sine Wave AC Power
-
Surge and short-circuit protection
Pros
-
High-capacity lithium-ion power pack
-
Rechargeable 3 ways
-
Power supply runs quietly
-
Charges a wide array of devices and appliances
-
Affordable price point
Cons
No pass-through charging
Who Should Get This?
Due to the number of devices and appliances, it’s capable of powering, the Rockpals 250W Portable Solar Generator is ideal for use in the case of emergencies.
8. Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium Solar Generator
The Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium Portable Power Station is the best solar generator for those looking for a solar generator for long-term use, as it’s operated with lightweight lithium-ion batteries that result in long runtimes and an extended 12-month shelf-life. This solar generator is also durable, as the Boulder 100 Solar Panel Briefcase (which encases monocrystalline solar cells) is made of lightweight aluminum and tough tempered glass.
This solar generator has premium power, with a continuous 1500W output and a 3000W surge capability. It also has a 1,425Wh capacity. This generator’s power and capacity are high enough for it to power several devices and appliances, like power tools and refrigerators. The Solar Charging Optimization Module, which is a maximum power point tracker (MPPT), monitors and optimizes the energy source to maximize power input.
The Yeti app provides a convenient way to control your solar generator. If you use the Yeti Fast Charge 25-amp Power Supply, the generator fully recharges in as few as 4.5 hours.
Specs
-
Kit includes Boulder 100 Solar Panel Briefcase
-
Kit includes Yeti 1400 Lithium Wi-Fi
-
Maximum power point tracker (MPPT)
-
Continuous output of 1500W
Pros
-
Relatively quiet when in use
-
No exhaust fumes
-
Lightweight lithium-ion batteries
-
Can be operated with Wi-Fi connection
Cons
-
One of the most expensive solar generators
Who Should Get This?
The Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium Portable Power Station is ideal for long-term use, such as emergency power outages, lengthy camping trips, and outdoor projects.
9. Wagan Solar e Power Cube 1500 Plus (EL2547) Solar Generator
The Wagan (EL2547) Solar e Power Cube 1500 Plus is a very user-friendly solar generator as it requires no assembly, and no connections to set it up. This solar generator is a high-capacity power source, as it has continuous 1500W power. It also has a 3600W peak surge power AC inverter, 2 115V AC outlets, 2 12V DC outlets, and 2 USB power ports. Expandable, it’s able to house additional solar panels and batteries to increase its powering capability.
At 122 lbs., this isn’t a solar generator that buyers want to continually move around. However, it’s still portable and can be used for RV camping, emergency power outages, and outdoor activities. Because it’s compatible with devices and appliances like cell phones, laptops, TVs, power tools, microwaves, and lights, it’s suitable for indoor and outdoor use, which increases its versatility.
This solar generator comes with just a 2-year warranty, but it’s still a dependable portable power source.
Specs
-
Continuous 1500W power
-
100 Ah AGM/gel hybrid battery
-
Expandable with additional solar panels
-
Two-year warranty
Pros
-
No assembly required
-
No exhaust fumes, environmentally safe
-
Continuous 1500W power
-
3600W peak surge power AC inverter
Cons
-
Not easily transported at 122 pounds
Who Should Get This?
The Wagan (EL2547) Solar e Power Cube 1500 Plus is an ideal solar generator for buyers that don’t want the hassle of assembly and complicated set-up.
Final Verdict
If you need to power your laptop, pellet grill, or phone while you’re outside or during a power outage, you need a dependable generator. An extremely affordable power source that can be used in a variety of situations, including emergencies, the Jackery Explorer 240 Solar Generator is the best solar generator of 2021.
If you are interested, we also have a blog on how to build a solar generator.