A shortage of electric power might be a problem if you are in an area with no plugs, such as camping or traveling. Thanks to nature, which supplies us with the dependable power of the sun’s energy, there is no need to worry about running out of battery power with a solar power bank.
Solar power banks are essential for adventure enthusiasts. They offer a way to keep cell phones and other electronic devices powered when electricity is unavailable. They are also helpful when extreme weather or power disruptions cause widespread outages.
Solar chargers have built-in solar cells that catch sunlight and transform it into electric power to charge devices. However, solar power banks are produced with a built-in battery to preserve the generated electric power.
It implies you don’t need to expose the solar power bank to sunlight while charging your devices. As long as your solar power banks are fully charged, you have more flexibility in using them.
Best Solar Power Banks
For your next outdoor activity, here are the best solar power banks to include in your activity essentials.
1. TOP CHOICE: Qisa Solar Power Bank
- Brand: Qisa
- Weight: 1.21 pounds
- Output ports: Two USBs, one Type-C, and one Qi wireless output charging for phones
- Special Feature: Wireless Charging, Portable Charger, Waterproof
- Accessories: Micro USB charging cable, lanyard, carabiner
The Qisa Solar Power Bank is our top choice, with a 38,800 mAh battery capacity. Its reasonable price tag and portable size make it a perfect power bank.
This durable solar power bank is perfect for staying plugged in on long outdoor adventures. Its ability to charge numerous devices and the powerful 200-lumen flashlight (with an SOS option) can be valuable in an emergency.
This solar power bank can charge devices on dual input ports—the high-speed Type-C and Micro USB. It provides the fastest charging speed possible, about twice as fast as a standard power bank with a single input port.
It has a sturdy design and outstanding dustproof, shock-resistant, and waterproof qualities. It is made of robust ABS material and has an IP 66 rating, suitable for challenging conditions. It comes with slings and is ideal for camping, hiking, traveling, and emergencies.
It’s perfect for traveling, letting your devices charge anytime and anywhere.
Pros:
- Offers Convenience with Wireless Charging Capacity
- Its portable and compact size makes it easy to use
- Capacity of 38800 mAh
- Rated maximum output of 15.5 watts
Cons:
- It takes almost 7 hours to charge
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2. LICORNE Solar Power Bank
- Brand: Licorne
- Weight: 1.41 pounds
- Output ports: USB Type C, Lightning
- Special Feature: Wireless charging, Cable-free, Solar powered, Durable, High capacity
The LICORNE Solar Power Bank is a high-capacity power bank with a 36800mAh battery. Its built-in lightning cable, micro cable, and type C cable allow it to be used with any mobile phone. The cable-free portable charger with wireless output also eliminates the need to bring a charging cord.
It is a great power bank that contains a wireless charger that charges multiple devices at the same time. Its quick charge connector fuels fast power backup for your gadgets.
It also has an integrated flashlight with three lighting modes: strong light, strobe, and SOS. These modes will guide you through nighttime and emergencies. The powerful light and strobe modes are ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, trekking, and traveling.
The portable solar charger is composed of high-quality ABS and PC Silicone and comes with a solar panel. It is also suitable for extreme conditions with its IP66 Waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof features. It is ideal for camping, biking, fishing, traveling, trekking, and beaches.
Pros:
- High battery capacity
- Sturdy and has a compact size
- 6 outputs & Wireless charging
- Cable-free
Cons:
- With its small solar panel, high-capacity and uncontrollable solar intensity should be considered.
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3. Blavor Solar Power Bank
- Brand: Blavor
- Weight: 0.25 pounds
- Output ports: USB C Input & Output Tech
- Special Feature: High battery capacity, dual flashlight, complimentary compass kit
BLAVOR has over ten years of experience in portable solar power banks and has earned the respect and trust of millions of users worldwide. Blavor Solar Power Bank employs a safer lithium-cobalt battery with 50% longer cycling times than a standard Lithium-polymer battery. It is the market’s lightweight solar power bank, with a capacity of 10,000mAh.
The exterior case is composed of flame-resistant ABS+PC materials. Its waterproof silicone material protects the power bank’s interior structure. The case also has a rubber skin coating that generates a surface protective film, a smooth texture, and an exquisite design.
The Blavor portable solar charger has a built-in dual super brilliant flashlight and compass carabiner. The accompanying compass carabiner would ensure your safety throughout outdoor trips, making it the ideal companion for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Premium Battery & Smallest Solar Charger
- Safe Material and Comfortable Design
- Multi-Purpose Outdoor Power Bank
- Industry-leading Warranty
Cons:
- A bit bulky
- Slow charging speeds considering the battery capacity
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4. Best Foldout Solar Power Bank: Hiluckey 25,000mAh Solar Power Bank
- Brand: Hiluckey
- Weight: 1.34 pounds
- Output ports: USB Port -Type C
- Special Feature: 25,000mAh, charge up to six times faster, waterproof and shock/dust resistant
The Hiluckey 25,000mAh Power Bank features four high-efficiency solar panels and up to 1A input current. It means your devices will charge up to six times faster than competing brands. The charging procedure is also easy, allowing you to connect two devices via twin USB ports for USB and micro USB power.
The auto-detection feature is a nice bonus, as it searches for your devices for a consistent and dependable connection. Also, this solar-powered battery bank has various functions because its Li-polymer battery can charge tablets up to four times and phones up to ten times.
It is not only water-resistant but also shock- and dustproof. It has a multi-function LED flashlight and an SOS mode for signaling aid in an emergency. The built-in hook also allows you to store your power bank anywhere.
Pros:
- Embedded battery pack
- Powers multiple device
- Compact Design
Cons:
- LED notifications are unreliable
- Heavier compared to other models
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5. Riapow Solar Power Bank
- Brand: Riapow
- Output ports: USB Type C
- Special Feature: Offers a capacity of 26800 mAh and a rated maximum output of 15.5 watts
The Riapow Solar Power Bank is rated to have a maximum output of 15.5 watts. This cable-free solar power bank with wireless output supports inductive charging for all QI-enabled phones. It provides up to 8 days of dependable power on a single charge.
It can simultaneously charge four gadgets, such as a cell phone, at full speed. Auto-detect your device’s battery level to provide the fastest charging possible. With a USB C charger, you can charge your power bank in 7 hours, which is 2.5 times faster than 1A input.
Its single solar panel lets you hang it on your backpack to recharge through direct sunlight. With its built-in LED flashlight with three modes (steady-flashing-SOS), this sturdy and durable design solar power bank is ideal for outdoor activities.
Pros:
- Includes several USB output ports
- Includes a built-in LED flashlight
- High performance at a reasonable price
Cons:
- The wireless charging speed is a little slow
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6. BLAVOR Solar Charger Five Panels Detachable
- Brand: Blavor
- Weight: 1.25 pounds
- Output ports: dual USB max 2.1A
- Special Feature: Type C cable, LED flashlight, compass ring kit
The BLAVOR Solar Charger Five Panels Detachable is a good option for a multipurpose power bank that you can use for everyday activities and outdoor adventures. This is because four of five folding solar panels are detachable, allowing you to store them when unused.
When five premium solar panels are attached, it functions as the best solar charger with a maximum charging current of 1300mA. When removed, a sealing bar allows it to work as an individual portable power bank with two USB outputs.
It also has three flashlight modes. It works as a torch, an outdoor signal light, and a flashing Strobe light. These solar-powered chargers include Qi wireless technology that can charge compatible devices and a compact compass for camping trips.
Pros:
- Detachable 5 Solar Panels
- camping flashlight
- Qi wireless charging capacity
Cons:
- Solar panel connectors are not waterproof
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7. FEELLE Solar Power Bank Charger 25000mAh
- Brand: Feelle
- Weight: 1.18 pounds
- Output ports: USB/Micro USB
- Special Feature: 4 Solar Panels, built-in bright LED light
The FEELLE Solar Power Bank Charger contains four solar panels, allowing it to capture much sunlight. When its solar panels expand, the solar power bank catches about the same amount of solar energy as a standard 5W wall charger. When folded, they are compact and convenient to carry around.
While a few fold-out panels can charge devices when the sun is up, the FEELLE Solar Power Bank has a massive 25,000 mAh high-capacity battery that can charge devices up to nine times.
A waterproof silicone cover protects its USB ports. Furthermore, the built-in powerful LED light has three settings (steady, SOS, and strobe), making it ideal for camping, trekking, and other outdoor recreation.
This portable solar charger has a multi-protection design that protects your devices from overcharging, overheating, overcurrent, and short circuits, making it safe and reliable.
Pros:
- Each solar panel can charge a device independently
- Large capacity to charge multiple devices over long periods
- Rainproof and has multiple protections
Cons:
- Charge slowly during wall charging
- Little heavy at over 1 lb
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8. Renogy’s 200W Monocrystalline Starter Kit w/ MPPT Charge Controller
- Brand: Renogy
- Weight: 4.41 pounds
- Accessories: MPPT Charge Controller, Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel, Mounting Z Brackets, MC4 Adaptor Kit (Pair), Tray Cables (Pair), Solar Y Branch Connectors MMF+FFM Pair
With the Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit and MPPT Charge Controller, you’ll never deny you’re getting the most out of your equipment. This kit contains a 20A MPPT charge controller, which uses Maximum Power Point Tracking technology to transmit power up to 30% more efficiently than PWM charge controllers.
It has high solar efficiency and bypass diodes that reduce power drop caused by shade and ensure good performance in low-light conditions. The inbuilt MPPT charge controller also has a peak efficiency of 97%.
It contains a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame for long-term outdoor use and a TPT back sheet that promotes smooth functioning over time. Its IP65-certified junction box also protects against environmental dust and low-pressure water jets.
Sealed, gel, and flooded charging algorithms are available, as is a 4-stage battery charging procedure for quick, efficient, and safe battery charging. You can also use the timer feature with a 1-15-hour timer option.
Aside from upgraded wiring, you have the option to upgrade to a 40A MPPT charge controller rather than 20A to better suit your future growth needs. The Renogy Starter Kit MPPT could be the ideal fit for you, as it is designed to provide you with the most efficient system.
Pros:
- EL-tested solar modules; no hot-spot heating guaranteed
- High solar cell efficiency: Monocrystalline 18.4%
- The MPPT charge controller has a peak efficiency of 97%
Cons:
- A lot heavier, up to 4.41 pounds
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9. Topsolar SolarFairy 100W Portable Foldable Solar Panel
- Brand: Topsolar
- Output Ports: USB, USB-C, and DC 14.4V and 19V outputs
- Special Feature: Solar Panel, Fast Charging, Short Circuit Protection, Travel, Solar Intensity Indicator
The Topsolar SolarFairy 100W Portable Foldable Solar Panel Charger Kit is designed for most portable power stations. It is perfect for charging portable power stations and has various connections and connectors.
The built-in smart IC chip recognizes your device and optimizes solar charging speed while protecting it from overcharging and overloading. It is ideal for outdoor activities and unexpected power interruptions.
After folding it, you can load it into a bag or trunk and wander the world. At the same time, the panel is outfitted with adjustable brackets, allowing you to modify the angle of the solar panel to acquire a larger output power.
High-efficiency monocrystalline solar cells provide more power efficiency, even if the panel is smaller than a standard type. They also maximize system output by eliminating mismatch loss. In low-light settings, they outperform rated polycrystalline solar panels.
It is a real solar panel setup that fits inside a laptop. It has USB, USB-C, and even DC 14.4V and 19V outlets, and it can power all of your electronics for a camping trip or a day at the beach. It also has a rack system that allows you to point the panels toward the sun and anchors at each corner to secure them in stormy weather.
Pros:
- Legitimate instant solar power
- Compact storage
- Multiple outputs, including DC power
Cons:
- Cannot charge while on the move
- Requires additional equipment for 19V power delivery
- Not as durable as handheld units
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10. BigBlue Solar Chargers
- Brand: BigBlue
- Output ports: Triple USB-A Ports
- Special Feature: waterproof solar panels, portable and folding, SunPower solar panels, 2usb outputs
- Accessories: 4x Carabiners, 1X 28W Solar Charger, 1x USB-A to USB-C cable
So you want legitimate charging capability, but you also want it on long hikes? And you want it to be compact enough to fit almost anywhere? The BigBlue Solar Charger has it all.
The Big Blue solar charger has three USB ports in the same canvas pack as the panels. It’s waterproof, and the large corner anchors allow you to charge or secure it.
It includes smart charge technology, which recognizes your device and provides optimal charging speed that varies with different devices. With overcurrent, overheating, and short-circuit protection, BigBlue ensures 100% safe charging.
SunPower solar panels convert up to 24% of solar power into free energy when exposed to enough sunlight, making them the most durable panels on the market today. It withstands wear and tear better than conventional panels. This PET polymer surface protects the solar panel from light rain or fog, and three ports are wrapped with rubber to prevent dust or water damage.
If you’re going on a long camping trip or traveling to places with an unreliable power system, the BigBlue solar charger is a great option. It is portable and light enough to fit into any outdoor backpack or trekking daypack with its compact size and lightweight design. It is also essential to keep it in an emergency kit.
Pros:
- Compact
- Flexible and foldable matt design
- Impressive charging rate
Cons:
- No built-in battery bank
- No USB-C or 12V outputs
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11. 4PATRIOTS Power Cell
- Brand: 4Patriots
- Output ports: 2 USB Ports
- Special Feature: Rechargeable solar panel, water resistant, dual USB charging ports
This portable solar power bank can be recharged using the sun’s free energy. The 5-inch solar panel recharges the 8,000 mAh lithium-ion battery without cords or outlets. You can also fast-charge your power cell with the included micro-USB cable, which makes it ideal for disaster response, camping, hiking, and travel.
The IP67 waterproof rating indicates that it can withstand rain and splashes. The external battery’s rubberized exterior prevents drops. Even if you throw it in snow, on rocks, or in ice water, the 4PATRIOTS Power Cell still functions.
It also has the advantage of charging its 8,000mAh battery pack using the included micro-USB cord. This makes it ideal for charging before setting sail on a trip and then relying on the sun for power once the initial battery life is depleted.
The super-bright LED flashlight illuminates any dark space, making it perfect for night camping. Its solar panel allows you to charge it anywhere there is direct sunlight, and its TSA-approved and portable design makes it an ideal travel companion.
Pros:
- All in one, compact device
- Passes TSA lithium battery regulations
- Super lightweight
- Durable, able to withstand plenty of drops
Cons:
- Extremely slow solar charging
- Reports of device malfunctions
- Only two USB type A ports, no other outlets
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Solar Power Bank Selection Criteria
If you’re considering purchasing a solar power bank, you should have shopping criteria to help you make the best decision. To assist you, we have selected some valuable factors to consider when deciding which one to purchase.
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Size and Weight
Size and weight are important factors when selecting the best solar-powered battery banks. Remember that you will carry this wherever you go, possibly for several hours, so you will need something portable, light, and compact.
However, remember that the heavier your solar power bank, the more space it usually has. Consider your priorities: prefer a lightweight power bank with limited charging capacity or a heavier power bank with greater charging capacity? You have a choice, but don’t worry; most items are light.
Charging Capacity
A battery’s charging capacity is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). Batteries with charging capacities of up to 50,000 mAh are available on the market. Remember that a cell phone’s battery capacity is usually no more than 5,000 mAh, whereas a tablet’s battery capacity is no more than 12,000 mAh.
Charging Speed
Consider the voltage and output amperage to determine how a solar power bank will charge your device. The voltage should be close to the device charger. 5 volts (V) should be sufficient to charge your phone.
The second factor is output amperage. The higher it is, the faster your device will be charged by the solar power bank. The majority of power banks on the market have output amperages ranging between 2 and 3 amps (A).
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Battery Charging Time
You must understand how fast the power bank you purchase will charge itself using solar energy or when plugged into an electric current. Remember that charging this device with solar energy will take much longer – often more than 24 hours of direct sunlight. When connected to an outlet, the voltage and output amperage also affect the time it takes to charge.
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Resistance and Durability
You’ll most likely bring your solar power bank when hiking or camping. If this is the case, the battery is always at risk of being damaged, which is why you should select a power bank with high resistance and durability.
If you intend to hike in the rain, you should also get a waterproof power bank. But remember, buying a waterproof battery does not mean you can submerge it in water. Finally, make sure to purchase a battery made of high-quality materials.
Number of outputs
The final factor is the number of connections to your solar battery. It determines how many devices you can charge at the same time. You should also take note of the type of connections, such as USB and micro USB connections.
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