Are you considering using portable solar panels for your energy needs?
We know that it can be overwhelming to sift through all the options available, so we've put together this helpful guide to make sure you're choosing the best portable solar panel solution for your specific needs.
Whether you're looking for a backpacking or camping solution or need a stronger emergency power source, this guide will take you through the key features and benefits of each type of portable solar panel and help you find the right one for your situation.
Keep reading to learn more about the different types of portable solar panels and how they can meet your energy needs!
We hope you enjoy reading our reviews you can rely on! Each product was independently selected by one of our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us test out, but all opinions in this article are our own. We may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something at no added cost to you. Thank you for visiting!
How We Chose The Best Portable Solar Panels
We understand how difficult it can be to navigate through the multitude of portable solar panels available on the market, and we don't want you to waste your time - or worse, your money - on the wrong product.
That's why our expert reviewers have spent countless hours evaluating each product to ensure you get exactly what you need.
So sit back, relax, and let us do the hard work for you! Read on to learn more about the best portable solar panels out there!
Why We Picked It
The QiSa is perfect for those who are often on the go. These portable solar chargers have an integrated 38800mAh battery pack allowing you to have power anywhere you go.
With its four high-conversion solar charging panels, you can rest assured that your device will always have power - even when there's no electricity or plug available!
The 12W of solar power and input current of 1.16A means this charger is more efficient than a 5V1A plug input.
On top of all that, the integrated battery pack has a huge capacity of 38800mAh so you don't need to worry about running low on juice ever again!
Additional features like 10W Qi Wireless Charging, built-in solar panel and bright flashlights make sure you're never left in the dark.
What You Should Know
This Solar Charger 38800mAh Solar Power Bank is the perfect companion for on-the-go charging.
It features dual 5V3.1A outputs, 10W Qi Wireless Charging, and a built-in solar panel for emergency power.
It is waterproof, dustproof and drop proof to ensure reliable performance in any environment.
With powerful flashlights and a smart chip that automatically identifies devices, this power bank can provide reliable stable charging for up to 3 devices simultaneously.
Why We Picked It
The BigBlue 3 USB-A 28W Solar Charger is ideal for outdoor use and will help you stay powered up no matter where the day takes you.
With the efficient SunPower solar panel, it can convert up to 24% of sunlight into free energy in enough sunshine, so your devices will never be out of juice.
It features smart charging technology that recognizes your device quickly and delivers optimal power accordingly, while built-in protection guards against short circuits and overheating to keep both your device and charger safe.
Best of all, this durable charger has multiple ports allowing you to charge several devices at once!
Enjoy reliable power in any weather with the BigBlue 3 USB-A 28W Solar Charger – perfect for camping trips or outdoor adventures!
What You Should Know
The BigBlue 3 USB-A 28W Solar Charger is an ideal choice for adventurers and travelers, providing a reliable and portable power source.
It comes in a compact size of 11.6 x 6.3 x 1.3 inches when folded and weighs only 20.5 ounces, making it easy to fit into any camping backpack or bag.
With its 5V/4.8A Max output, this solar charger can easily handle charging most small electronic devices such as iPhones, Androids, iPads, Samsung Galaxy phones, and LG devices without the need for extra cables or adapters.
Furthermore, it is IPX4 Waterproof certified and equipped with automatic restart function to ensure optimized performance even in cloudy conditions.
Why We Picked It
Introducing the Topsolar SolarFairy 60W Portable Foldable Solar Panel Charger Kit.
This kit is your perfect companion for outdoor life, providing power and charging capabilities wherever you go.
With an 18V DC output specifically designed to charge most portable power banks, dual USB ports with QC3.0 & 2.0 (5V/9V/12V 2A max) and a USB-C port with PD3.0, you can easily stay connected by charging your smartphones, tablets (compatible with iPhone and iPad), GPS devices and digital cameras when necessary.
Smart IC chip technology ensures maximum charging speeds for all of your devices while protecting them from overcharging or overloading—functionality that will be invaluable during unexpected power outages!
Get ready to enjoy the freedom of taking your energy needs on the go!
What You Should Know
The Topsolar SolarFairy 60W Portable Foldable Solar Panel Charger Kit is an ideal choice for anyone who needs a reliable and efficient source of solar power.
The portable solar charger is not only lightweight, but it also offers adjustable brackets to optimize the output power according to your environment.
Its monocrystalline solar cell technology ensures maximum efficiency even in low-light conditions, whilst its durable construction with advanced laminated technology and long lasting ETFE material guarantees lasting performance.
With an easy-to-use USB & Type C connection for charging battery packs or mobile devices, this panel is a reliable and powerful way to stay connected on the go.
Why We Picked It
Introducing the Topsolar 60W Foldable Portable Solar Panel Charger Kit – a perfect solution for powering up your electrical devices anywhere and anytime.
This charger kit is designed with dual USB ports, 19/14.4V DC output and QC3.0 & 2.0 fast charging technology to support efficient charging of electronic items such as smartphones, tablets, GPS and digital cameras.
It also comes with cables and connectors compatible with Suaoki, Jackery, Webetop, Rockpals etc., allowing you to charge 12-volt batteries of cars boat or RV directly without an additional controller.
With this advanced solar panel charger kit on your side, you can now power up wherever life takes you!
What You Should Know
The Topsolar 60W Foldable Portable Solar Panel Charger is a revolutionary product that provides maximum power efficiency within a compact frame.
Its high-efficiency monocrystalline solar cells are optimized to collect energy even in low-light conditions, allowing you to make the most of renewable energy sources.
Made with advanced lamination technology and ETFE coating material for superior durability, this solar panel charger is equipped with adjustable brackets and two USB ports as well as 19/14.4V DC Output for use with multiple devices.
Plus, their 12-month worry-free warranty ensures reliable after-sales service.
Why We Picked It
Discover the power of solar energy with this 80 Watt Portable Solar Panel from Renogy!
Constructed of premium PERC monocrystalline solar cells, it offers a higher conversion efficiency than traditional panels, delivering more sunpower into electricity.
Plus, its IP67 waterproof rating and ETFE film coating give it superior durability for years to come.
With an adjustable kickstand for easy angle adjustment and a lightweight design ideal for camping and RV trips, the 80 Watt Portable Solar Panel from Renogy unlocks clean, renewable energy - wherever you are!
What You Should Know
The Renogy 80 watt Portable Solar Panel is an ideal solution for off-grid power generation.
This foldable panel features adjustable kickstands, allowing it to capture 30% more sunlight than panels lying flat.
Additionally, its five-connectors-in-one adaptor cable ensures compatibility with most solar generators on the market.
Furthermore, this panel has an auto-detection function that allows for immediate reconnection when charging is interrupted by sunlight.
With their efficient design and high level of compatibility, the Renogy line of Portable Solar Panels are a great choice for anyone looking to charge deep-cycle batteries and portable power stations while they're off the grid.
Why We Picked It
The EcoFlow 110W Portable Solar Panel is the perfect way to stay powered up while you're on-the-go.
With an impressive 23% efficiency rate, it's one of the most efficient solar panels available, and its foldable design makes it easy to take with you wherever life takes you.
Plus, it's IP68 water and dustproof design ensures that your device remains safe in even the most extreme conditions.
Whether you're camping or exploring out in nature, this solar panel will make sure all your devices are kept charged and ready for whatever comes next!
What You Should Know
The EcoFlow 110W Portable Solar Panel is designed to meet the needs of outdoor users with its IP68 waterproof rating and dustproof design.
The adjustable carry case enables optimal solar coverage as it can double up as a kickstand, enabling faster charging of the solar generator.
The panel's high 23% efficiency ensures efficient power output and the foldable design allows for portability and easy storage.
All in all, this robust product provides reliability and practicality for camping, RVs or backyard use.
Why We Picked It
Take your energy needs with you on all of your outdoor adventures with the EcoFlow 400W Portable Solar Panel.
This high-performance and extremely portable solar panel is perfect for campers, hikers and other explorers who need to power their devices while away from home.
Featuring an impressive 400W power input and outstanding efficiency, this foldable and durable panel includes a convenient adjustable kickstand case that makes it easy to store in any backpack or suitcase.
Plus, it's resistant to water thanks to its IP68 rating – so no matter where you go on your travels, this lightweight yet powerful solar panel will provide reliable electricity whenever you need it!
What You Should Know
The EcoFlow 400W Portable Solar Panel is the perfect companion for outdoor adventures.
With its water-proof IP68 rating and durable EVA and fiberglass construction, you can be sure that it will stand up to the elements.
Additionally, this panel is equipped with market-leading monocrystalline technology, which allows for a high energy conversion rate of 22.4%.
Finally, when paired with an EcoFlow power station, this panel utilises an MPPT algorithm to optimise efficiency no matter the weather conditions.
Best Portable Solar Panels FAQ’s
Struggling to find the Best Portable Solar Panels? We can help! Get all your questions answered quickly with our list of Frequently Asked Questions. Shop with confidence and make your next purchase with total certainty!
How long does portable solar panel last?
Portable solar panels can last for many years if they are well taken care of.
Proper maintenance includes keeping the panel clean and sheltered from extreme weather conditions.
It is also important to check the power output regularly, to ensure that it is working as effectively as possible.
With this in mind, you can get a good number of years out of your portable solar panel if you take good care of it.
Do portable solar panels really work?
Yes, portable solar panels do work.
They use photovoltaic technology to convert sunlight into electricity that can be stored in a battery for later use.
Portable solar panel systems offer an efficient energy source that is lighter and more durable than standard rigid panels.
How much power can you get from a portable solar panel?
It depends on the size and type of the portable solar panel.
Generally, most small-sized panels produce between 5 to 10 watts of power and are able to charge small devices such as phones and cameras.
For more powerful applications, larger panels with output up to 400 watts are available for increased charging capacity.
What is the biggest problem with solar panels?
The biggest problem with solar panels is the cost of installation and maintenance, as it can be quite expensive to install a large enough system to generate the energy needed for a home or business.
Additionally, solar panels need direct sunlight in order to function efficiently, which may not always be available depending on weather conditions.
Finally, if solar panels are not installed correctly they can be prone to environmental damage such as snow and hail which could also incur costly repairs.
Can portable solar panels get rained on?
Yes, portable solar panels can get rained on. However, it is not recommended since too much rain or moisture can damage the panels and reduce their efficiency.
It is best to pack up or cover your portable solar panel with a waterproof cover during heavy rains or if you plan to store it outdoors for extended periods of time.
Can you leave portable solar panels in the rain?
No, portable solar panels should not be left out in the rain.
Even if you have one of the EcoFlow portable panels or other IP68 rated panels, it's best to bring them inside out of the elements.
Do portable solar panels work in winter?
Yes, portable solar panels do work in winter.
The amount of power they generate will depend on the intensity of the sunlight available to them, which can vary greatly in winter months with shorter days and less available light.
However, the lower temperatures brought about by winter may actually improve their efficiency and increase the total output from a given panel size.
Do portable solar panels need direct sunlight?
Yes, portable solar panels need direct sunlight in order to generate the electricity they produce.
Direct sunlight ensures that the photovoltaic cells of the panels are in a better position to absorb maximum energy from the sun’s light and rays.
Portable solar panel kits contain devices that can convert this absorbed energy into useful alternating current electricity.
How fast do portable solar panels charge?
Portable solar panels can charge at a range of speeds depending on the wattage and quality of the panel.
Generally speaking, high watt solar panels will charge faster than low watt panels.
On average, a 10-watt biolite solar panel will take approximately 6 hours to fully charge an phone-sized power bank under ideal sunny conditions.
How many solar panels and batteries do I need to run a refrigerator?
The exact number of solar panels and batteries required to run a refrigerator will depend on the size of the refrigerator, as well as how much energy you are consuming each day.
Generally speaking, a fridge uses about 3,000 Watts per day.
If you have 400 Watts of solar, a 30Amp charge controller, and at least 100AH of battery capacity, you should be able to run your fridge all day, everyday with at least 5 hours of sunlight per day.
What are the benefits of portable solar panels?
Portable solar panels can provide a variety of benefits to the user.
First, they are an environmentally friendly and efficient way to generate power without the use of traditional energy sources.
Second, because portable solar panels are independent and require no additional infrastructure for setup and maintenance, they are convenient and easy to transport anywhere you need them.
Finally, they help reduce energy costs by providing users with consistent access to renewable energy in any location.
What are the 2 major drawbacks to solar power?
The two major drawbacks of solar power are its initial installation cost and the fact that it is not an always-available source of energy.
Solar power systems require a large upfront investment in both hardware and labor, making them prohibitively expensive for many households.
Additionally, the reliance on sunlight makes solar panels dependent on weather patterns which can lead to inconsistent electricity production.
Therefore, it is important to carefully review all options before investing in a solar system.
What are 2 bad things about solar panels?
1. Solar panels are expensive to purchase and install, which makes them prohibitively costly for many households and businesses.
2. Solar panels also require maintenance and occasional repairs, which may add additional costs over time.
3. Additionally, solar panels are a relatively new technology that hasn't yet been tested long-term in all climates, so it's not certain how well they will hold up in the long run under certain environmental conditions.
What can damage solar panels?
One of the most common causes of damage to solar panels is exposure to extreme weather conditions like hail or high winds.
Solar panel systems can also suffer from mechanical damage such as collisions with trees, birds, or other objects.
Lastly, UV rays from the sun and water can cause degradation over time, which will reduce the lifespan and efficiency of a solar panel system.
What happens if lightning strikes your solar panels?
If lightning strikes your solar panels, it can cause physical damage to them in the form of melting, cracking, and charring.
This type of damage is usually not covered by warranties unless a surge protection device (SPD) was installed.
In order to protect your solar installation from these kinds of events, it’s recommended to install a professional grade SPD which will limit any voltage surges caused by lightning strikes.
Can you leave solar panels out without a battery?
Yes, you can, but if you aren't charging something, it's best to put your solar panel away until you need it again.
Do solar panels drain batteries at night?
No, solar panels do not drain batteries at night as long as they have a charge controller or other electronics that doesn't allow power to go the other way.
Do you need an inverter with portable solar panels?
It depends on which panel you go with and what you are trying to use the power for.
If you decide on a portable solar charger, it will have an integrated battery bank or built in charge controller that will allow you to charge your small electronic devices.
If you want to use something that needs AC power, then you will need an inverter.
Can solar panels charge on cloudy days?
Yes, they can. Solar panels are able to generate energy from the sun's rays even on cloudy days.
However, the amount of energy generated is likely to be lower than when it’s sunny outside due to decreased intensity of light.
To maximize solar panel efficiency, an efficient and properly designed system taking into account natural weather conditions should be used.
Best Portable Solar Panels For You
We hope this article has helped you to make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the best portable solar panel for your needs. We’ve taken into account price, efficiency and durability so that you can find a reliable option that is both affordable and capable of powering all of your outdoor activities. With any luck, one of our top picks will be the perfect fit for you!
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