REASONS TO BUY
Stellar cloudy day charging
Premium build quality
USB-C or DC charging options
REASONS TO AVOID
Not the most efficient in direct sunlight
Bit heavy
EcoFlow 45W Review
When the clouds rolled in, this solar charger kept charging better than other panels of the same size
The EcoFlow 45W is a premium portable solar charger that worked well in direct sunlight but truly excelled under cloudy skies during our testing.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
By Chris Maxcer ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ August 9, 2026
Our Verdict
The EcoFlow 45W is a portable solar charger that performs particularly well under cloudy skies, outproducing most other panels even when we considered size differences. Under direct sunlight, it's a solid contender, and we appreciated the modern USB-C and DC port output options. Its premium build results in a heavy charger that's not quite as portable as some models, but it also feels more rugged and likely to dismiss abuse, so the extra weight may be a tradeoff worth carrying.
Our Analysis and Test Results
We liked the premium build quality of the EcoFlow 45W and solid output but weren't thrilled with the heavy weight. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Likes
We were amazed at how well the EcoFlow 45W collected indirect sunlight during our cloudy day testing. When we suspended a white sheet over the top of the solar chargers during a bright sunny day, this model stored more energy per rated watt than all others. It was only bested by larger panels.
For a solar charger rated at 45 watts, it easily outproduced similarly sized models (and far outpaced smaller ones).
While competitors could outproduce this panel on hot, bright days, the EcoFlow 45W was surprisingly efficient with low-light situations like mornings, evenings, and on cloudy days in Idaho during our testing period in July. Credit: Chris Maxcer
In our direct sunlight solar charging tests, we were pleased with its performance, which was slightly above average for its size. Overall, its efficiency is very good and dependable. It would drop output if we created a shadow over the panels, but it also recovered well when the shadow was removed.
We also appreciate the premium build quality. The EcoFlow 45W has an almost luscious heather gray fabric exterior with a 1/3 coverage snap panel that makes it easy to see where to unfold the panels.
While some solar chargers feel like cheap plastic boards, the EcoFlow 45W feels substantial and built with intent to last years. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Dislikes
The EcoFlow 45W is heavier than competitive solar panels we tested and it's not much smaller than some 60-watt solar chargers.
This extra weight and similar size led us to wonder if it might be smarter to just buy a larger 60-watt panel to get similar cloudy day performance through brute force instead of relying on the EcoFlow's efficiency.
The EcoFlow 45W weighs more than three pounds, making it too heavy for even group backpacking or bike packing. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The EcoFlow 45W folds down to the size of a hefty notebook. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The size when folded is acceptable, but it's surprisingly heavy compared to other panels rated at similar wattages. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The EcoFlow 45W loses a bit in our functionality ratings because it doesn't have a USB-A port, but it's not a huge ding because more people are transitioning to USB-C, which it does include.
On plus side, we appreciate the DC connection, which made it even more efficient if you have a small power station to charge.
The EcoFlow 45W skips the legacy USB-A port entirely, sticking with USB-C and DC output ports. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Should You Buy the EcoFlow 45W?
The EcoFlow 45W is a very good solar charger that excels in low-light conditions but is only about average for its size in direct sunlight. It packs down small but is noticeably heavier than similar models rated at similar wattages. It's a solid option for anyone who wants a handy solar charger for power outages at home or a premium portable charger for car camping. However, there are competitors that weigh less and deliver similar energy, sometimes at lower price points.
If plastic-like portable solar chargers turn you off, the meticulously crafted EcoFlow 45W is a refreshing option. Credit: Chris Maxcer
What Other Solar Power Banks Should You Consider?
The FlexSolar 40W is much lighter, has a smaller footprint, and produced far more usable energy in direct sunlight than the EcoFlow 45W, though it wasn't as compelling on cloudy days or when charging via a DC connection. For a serious boost in energy collection overall, the FlexSolar 60W is barely larger, weighs less, and collects more energy in all conditions, but unless you find it on sale, its higher MSRP might not be worth the cost.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare EcoFlow 45W versus top competing products:
| Awards | |
|---|---|
| Price | $99 List Check Price at Amazon |
Overall Score  |
|
| Star Rating | |
| Bottom Line | When the clouds rolled in, this solar charger kept charging better than other panels of the same size |
| Pros | Stellar cloudy day charging, premium build quality, USB-C or DC charging options |
| Cons | Not the most efficient in direct sunlight, bit heavy |
| Rating Categories | EcoFlow 45W |
| Direct Solar Charging Speed (35%) | |
| Indirect Solar Charging Speed (35%) | |
| Portability (15%) | |
| Functionality (15%) | |
| Specifications | EcoFlow 45W |
| Power Output (Watts) | 45 W |
| Energy Generated in 1 Hour of Direct Sun | 2351 mAh |
| Energy Generated in 1 Hour Indirect Sun | 1389 mAh |
| Weight (Measured) | 51.3 oz |
| Outlets | USB-C, DC |
| Max USB Output Current (per port) | 3 amp |
| Size Folded | 9 x 12.2 x 1.6 in |
| Size Opened | 38.5 x 12 x 0.6 in |
| Battery Included | No |
| Battery Capacity (mAh) | N/A |
| Tablet Charging | Yes |
| Laptop Charging | Yes |
| Panel Exterior Material | Polyester |
| Battery Input (Volts / Amps) | N/A |
| Able to Daisy Chain | No |
| Panel Type | Monocrystalline |
—Chris Maxcer
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