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In the age of the digital nomad, the endless adventurer, and unpredictable weather, there are plenty of reasons to invest in a power station wether you're looking for emergency backup power, a way to run electronics in your van or camp, or have some projects that require a generator and you'd rather not huff fumes.
To ensure reliable portable power stations for off-grid needs, emergencies, or home backup, I combined months of hands-on testing with lab tests at GearLab's 10,000 square foot facility, confidently recommending the best options for powering multiple devices or entire homes.
The Jackery 2000 Plus is best for most people. It has plenty of power, charges impressively fast, and won't let you down in case of an emergency.
Our team also appreciates the great value and functionality of the Anker 521. The 521 is extremely portable and easy to use when charging devices and running small appliances like fans and lights.
Looking to add to your power station setup? Check out our power bank and solar chargers reviews.
The Jackery 2000 Plus offers plenty of power, quiet operation, and expandable battery capacity, adding to its already impressive 2043Wh capacity. The 2000 Plus provides fast-charging capabilities, reaching 100% in under two hours through AC input. It supports up to 1400 watts of solar input, which could achieve a full charge in around two hours under ideal conditions. To top it off, Jackery has a dialed app that can control functions such as custom battery and charge settings, and monitor your power station's battery and input/output. One tester noted, “I love the Jackery app. It's nice that it's so simple but still has everything you need without any over-the-top fluff.”
One drawback of the Jackery 2000 Plus is its less-than-stellar handle and wheel design. While it does help provide better mobility, the wheels feel flimsy and uninspiring on uneven terrain. Similarly, the handle is quite flimsy and has a lot of play when wheeling the station around. I also have my gripes with Jackery explicitly recommending only using their solar panels and providing proprietary solar connectors. For those with existing non-Jackery-branded panels, buying a separate adapter is required. Despite these drawbacks, the Jackery 2000 Plus is one of the best options available when looking for a highly capable, large-form portable power station. For those that are looking for even more power, the EcoFlow Delta Pro has a whopping 3600W capacity.
It's hard to beat the Anker Solix C1000 in the midsize power station category. Compact yet powerful, the C1000 excels in off-grid applications where both battery capacity and portability need to be prioritized. At only 28.65 lbs, the C1000 can be lifted and carried easily by one person. And with six 110-volt outlets in this unit, along with multiple USB-A and USB-C outlets, there's no shortage of plug options. However, the C1000's charging capabilities are where this power station really shines. During our timed charge test, the Anker took just 88 minutes to recharge a fully drained battery. If that's not fast enough, you can toggle ultra-fast charge mode through their app to cut charge time down to 65 minutes. Sentry Kelly, our lab tester noted, “I really appreciate the UltraFast charge option that I found useful while about to head out on a trip, and I realized I forgot to juice up the station.” While it is best to use ultra-fast mode sparingly to avoid battery degradation, having the option to recharge quickly in a pinch is a huge plus.
The Anker Solix C1000 isn't without its faults. One of the biggest is its noisy fan. In certain scenarios, such as using your power station overnight for heaters or CPAP machines, a loud fan can ruin a good night's rest. Additionally, DC5521 barrel plugs are missing on the C1000. This can inconvenience folks who are using barrel plugs for camera equipment, lights, and monitors. Despite these minor nuances, the Solix C1000 is our recommendation if you are in the market for a mid-sized portable power station. If you need even more power but still want a midsized power station, consider looking at the Goal Zero Yeti 1500x. While it doesn't offer nearly the same level of charging speeds, the 1500x has a larger inverter, surge rating, and battery capacity for those power-hungry appliances. However, as out lab tester notes, “It's worth mentioning that I did experience some overheating faults while stress testing the Goal Zero 1500.”
The EcoFlow Delta Pro offers unparalleled power, with the ability to take on any appliance, tool, or gadget you throw at it. It's the largest unit we tested, with a 3600-watt AC inverter and a 7200-watt surge rating. With expansion capabilities high enough to back up your entire home, the Delta Pro is aimed at those with serious power needs. As our lab tester notes, “During power output testing, I ran the Delta Pro at its max inverter wattage, which ran flawlessly for nearly an hour before fully draining its battery.” For such a large power station, the EcoFlow Delta Pro also impressed with its fast recharge time. A full recharge from zero percent took just 159 minutes. Although it's a big and heavy station, it's reasonably mobile. I personally thought it was fairly mobile for its size. The handle and the wheels are built really well.
EcoFlow has released the Delta Pro 3 since our testing period. The upgraded model provides a 240V plug, continuous output while charging, and up to 4000W output.
Despite the beefy wheels and handle, the glaring downside to the EcoFlow Delta Pro is its large size. At 97.24 lbs, the Delta Pro is better suited in your home's garage than it is out on a camping trip. Even with a telescoping handle and wheels, this power station takes up considerable space and is difficult to haul around. This unit is also quite pricey. While you get what you pay for, the sticker shock associated with the Delta Pro is real. If you're looking for a large, capable power station that's a little easier to move around, the Jackery 2000 Plus offers slightly lower power capabilities and a weight of just 62 lbs.
If you are searching for a compact portable power station for on-the-go activities, the Jackery Explorer 300 is our recommendation. This unit is ideal for charging phones and laptops or running small appliances like lights and fans. Its small form makes it an extremely versatile option. Whether you're using it for camping, outdoor work, or supplementing your photography needs, the Jackery 300 is packable and easy to carry. I love that it's super portable; it's easy to grab and go. With a 300-watt AC inverter and a 500-watt surge, this unit still packs plenty of power. During our power output testing, we found that it had an extremely impressive usable capacity of 98%. Having a high usable capacity in a small power station is extra important to maximize the available battery.
While I have no major complaints with the Jackery 300, there are a few small issues. The first is the absence of a built-in LED light, similar to the Anker 521. While not a deal breaker, having a light on a smaller power station is handy during power outages or for the inside of your tent while camping. Secondly, having a built-in function to estimate discharge time would prove useful in understanding how much battery remains when a device is plugged in and drawing power. If you're willing to sacrifice a few performance points for a lower price, the Anker 521 is sufficient for charging a phone dozens of times, power tools a few times, and can even charge a camera or laptop once or twice on one charge.
If you're looking for a small, reliable power station without breaking the bank, the Anker 521 is a great choice. Small enough to stash in your backpack but equipped with a 200W inverter, the 521 can run lights and fans, charge devices, and run a TV no problem. Its unibody design helps avoid disaster if accidentally dropped, and the use of LiFePO4 batteries means this power station has a long-lasting lifespan. Anker also offers a 5-year warranty on the 521, longer than the industry standard of 2 to 3 years offered by most manufacturers. The 521 also has a mix of port options, including multiple USB-A, USB-C, and car outlets. One of our favorite elements of the 521's design is the light. As our tester noted, “I really like the lights on these Anker systems. It's pretty unique, and it's great if you set it on a picnic table at camp.”
One area where I would have liked to have seen better results from the 521 is a higher usable capacity rating. Our testing resulted in a usable capacity of just 75%. This means the remaining 25% of power is unattainable when charged from 100%. A higher usability score is especially important in small-form power stations to maximize the available watt-hours. Still, the Anker 521 is a well-designed, durable power station for those on a budget venturing into portable power stations.
The Anker 521 is a budget-friendly option equipped with a few impressive features.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Whether on the job site or at a campsite, finding the right portable power station will make sure all your power needs are met.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Compare Products
How Many Times Can I Recharge a Device?
Iphone 16
(3.6 wh)
Cordless Drill
(26 wh)
Camera
(75.5 wh)
Laptop
(99.6 wh)
Anker 521
60x
8x
3x
2x
Anker Solix C1000
270x
37x
13x
10x
BioLite BaseCharge 1500
347x
48x
17x
13x
EcoFlow Delta Pro
856x
119x
41x
31x
Goal Zero Yeti 1500X
348x
48x
17x
13x
Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus
477x
66x
23x
17x
Jackery Explorer 300
78x
11x
4x
3x
How We Tested
Our Senior Research Analyst, Sentry Kelly, used GearLab's 10,000 square foot test facility to create apples-to-apples power output tests. He isolated each unit with identical power consumption and measured the actual usable capacity of each unit. He ran each station at its maximum output rating to test the inverter and surge protector limits.
He then handed them off to me, Kenji Mowery, to analyze the practicality of each power station by creating tests for the portability and user-friendliness of each model. I then used every station in real-world applications, including during power outages, off-grid camping trips, and job site tasks. For more on our testing process, take a look at our full How We Test article.
Power Efficiency (35% of overall score weighting)
Charge Time (30% weighting)
Mobility (20% weighting)
Usability (15% weighting)
The Jackery 300 handles multiple device charging with ease.
We also tested these power stations using common devices and appliances.
Why Trust GearLab
This review was led by me, Kenji Mowrey. Growing up, I tagged along with my dad to outdoor trade shows and dealer events, sparking a lifelong curiosity for outdoor gear. With a bachelor's degree in Product Design from Oregon State, I blend analytical, science-based testing with my passion for electronics and outdoor equipment to evaluate power stations thoroughly.
Backing me up with in-house measurements is our Research Analyst, Sentry Kelly. With a formal education in Applied Manufacturing Engineering, Sentry has the knowledge and training to analyze just about any mechanical or electrical product out there. In his free time, Sentry travels far and wide to snowboard, mountain bike, rock climb, and take photos all by way of his custom-built van that is outfitted with solar panels and a power station as the primary power source when the engine is turned off.
We plugged each station into a giant bank of light bulbs to get an apples-to-apples comparison of how much each portable generator could power.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Analysis and Test Results
We conducted extended research and tested each model head-to-head to find the best portable power stations.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
The most important thing to consider when shopping for a portable power station is the amount of power and battery capacity you need. The price range for portable power stations can range from a fairly inexpensive product to a large-sized investment. If all you need a power station for is to charge up devices and run small appliances such as lights and fans, a smaller form power station will offer plenty of power and provide a great starting point for trying out a portable power station. Alternatively, if you are in the market for a power station capable of running large appliances, including heaters, refrigerators, and power tools, and need extended battery life for days on end, a larger investment will be worth the higher upfront cost.
Make sure you choose a power station that is the right size for your power needs.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
If you're looking for a power station with more features and a dialed display, the Goal Zero Yeti 1500x has a great app and displays all the important functions, such as remaining discharge time and custom charge settings. The Anker 521 is a great compact option with enough juice to keep devices charged for multiple days.
Midsize options like the Goal Zero 1500x offer higher power and battery capacity while still maintaining their portable size.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Power Efficiency
Our first testing portion focuses on assessing each unit's power output capabilities. This involves testing each unit against its stated manufacturer's claim for total power output and battery capacity. First, Sentry tested each unit's battery capacity to find the true usability of each model. To gather this data, he ran each power station at its standard rating using our in-house light bar setup and drained each station to 0%.
Then, using this data, we calculated each unit's usable capacity. Next, a max output time test was done to run the inverter at its highest output capacity and record how long it ran. We also determined the power density of each model and accounted for each model's number of DC and AC output ports. The combination of these tests helps provide a better picture of each model's true power output and battery capacity.
The Jackery 300 was by far the most impressive unit in our power efficiency test. Its 98% usability score blew away the rest of the competition. This means 287 watt-hours out of the 293 advertised watt-hours are usable when running this power station.
The Jackery 300 has an excellent usable capacity, making it one of our favorite choices for charging devices while outside the house.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
The best-performing larger power stations were the Anker Solix C1000 and the Biolite BaseCharge 1500. Both units had a usable capacity of 85%. A score in the mid-80s is more typical for power stations and is generally the benchmark number to shoot for.
The Anker C1000 being subjected to our light bar setup.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Our next test involved running each power station at its max inverter rating and timing its run time. This gives us a better idea of how smoothly and effectively each unit can operate under a high power load.
Run Time
Home Refrigerator
(600w)
Coffee Maker
(900w)
Portable Heater
(1500w)
Portable Electric Stovetop
(2000w)
Anker 521
✖
✖
✖
✖
Anker Solix C1000
4.5 hr
1.0 hr
0.6 hr
✖
BioLite BaseCharge 1500
6.5 hr
1.4 hr
✖
✖
EcoFlow Delta Pro
14.7 hr
3.3 hr
2.0 hr
1.5 hr
Goal Zero Yeti 1500X
5.7 hr
1.3 hr
0.8 hr
0.6 hr
Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus
8.5 hr
1.9 hr
1.1 hr
0.9 hr
Jackery Explorer 300
✖
✖
✖
✖
The EcoFlow Delta Pro came alive during our max output test. Its runtime of 51 minutes placed it near the top of our entire test group.
The Delta Pro is unfazed when running at its max inverter rating.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Once again, the Biolite BaseCharge 1500 performed fantastically in our max output run time test, running for 54 minutes before running out of battery.
The BioLite BaseCharge 1500 was a standout when running our max output test.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Jackery 300 topped our small-size power station category. It had well-rounded scores across the board, including our best overall usability score and a respectable max output run time.
Jackery has a solid reputation in the power station market, and the 300 is no exception.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Given its power capabilities, the large and powerful EcoFlow Delta Pro was a tester's favorite. While it wasn't our top performer in usable capacity testing, it scored exceptionally well in max output testing and received extra points for its abundance of AC and DC ports, placing it near the top of our overall power output rankings.
Thanks to its impressively large power output, the Delta Pro can be used for a wide variety of tasks involving high-draw appliances and tools.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Based on our measurements, the chart below shows expected run times for several commonly used higher-wattage devices.
Run Time
Home Refrigerator
(600w)
Coffee Maker
(900w)
Portable Heater
(1500w)
Portable Electric Stovetop
(2000w)
Anker 521
✖
✖
✖
✖
Anker Solix C1000
4.5 hr
1.0 hr
0.6 hr
✖
BioLite BaseCharge 1500
6.5 hr
1.4 hr
✖
✖
EcoFlow Delta Pro
14.7 hr
3.3 hr
2.0 hr
1.5 hr
Goal Zero Yeti 1500X
5.7 hr
1.3 hr
0.8 hr
0.6 hr
Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus
8.5 hr
1.9 hr
1.1 hr
0.9 hr
Jackery Explorer 300
✖
✖
✖
✖
Charge Speed
Our next metric focuses on the required time to charge your power station with AC input from 0% to 100%. We also accounted for any special charging features associated with each model, such as quick charge features and custom charge speeds. To fairly score each unit, we also accounted for the differences in battery size. This meant looking at the watt-hours and charge time of each unit and finding its rate of charge.
The variance in charge times between each model and brand can vary significantly. Some of our best-performing power stations could achieve a full charge in under an hour, while others took upwards of fourteen hours. This is largely due to battery chemistry and the included charging input cables provided by different companies.
Recharge Times
Wall Outlet
Fastest Charge Time (additional accessories required)
Solar
Required Solar
Anker 521
4.1 hr
✖
Not Specified
n/a
Anker Solix C1000
1.4 hr
✖
1.8 hr
600 w
BioLite BaseCharge 1500
12.8 hr
2.5 hr
3.0 hr
400 w
EcoFlow Delta Pro
2.6 hr
✖
2.3 hr
1,600 w
Goal Zero Yeti 1500X
13.4 hr
3.0 hr
3.0 hr
1,200 w
Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus
1.6 hr
✖
2.0 hr
1,200 w
Jackery Explorer 300
4.0 hr
✖
5.0 hr
100 w
Starting off, the Anker Solix C1000 was one of our more impressive units in terms of charging speeds. With a charge time of 83 minutes, it was, without a doubt, the fastest station tested. On top of that, the C1000 also has an ultra-fast charge option that can be toggled through their app. This reduced charge time even more, taking only 65 minutes to achieve a full charge.
The Anker C1000's quick charging makes it the perfect companion for traveling and off-grid activities where fast charging between power sources is critical.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
The Jackery 2000 Plus also scored well in our charge tests. A charge time of 95 minutes with the included AC input cord to recharge a 2042Wh capacity battery is excellent. Another bonus is Jackery's switch to LiFePO4, which vastly improves lifespan and battery safety.
The quick charging of the Jackery 2000 Plus means more time spent outside and less time waiting for your power station to finish charging.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Also, using AC input, the EcoFlow Delta Pro had a recharge time of 153 minutes. When factoring in its battery size, it was the most impressive power station in terms of charging capabilities. What separates the EcoFlow apart is the plethora of different ways to recharge. With a separate EV plug adapter, you can recharge the Delta Pro at level 2 EV charging stations in under 2 hours. You can also buy an alternator charger kit from EcoFlow to recharge your power station in the car at 800W, meaning a much quicker recharge than traditional carport charging and the ability to use the energy produced by your vehicle.
We were super impressed by the Delta Pro's recharge time and its multitude of different ways to charge it.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Mobility
Our Mobility metric looks at the effort required to lift and carry, the ability to roll over different surfaces, and the different dimensions and weights necessary to stack and store your portable power station. Most higher capacity models will use wheels and handles to account for their larger form. Others are inherently more portable due to the nature of their battery size. To separate the good from the great, I analyzed the difference in handle comfort/material, assessed the weight distribution while carrying, and even considered each model's ability to fit within common spaces.
The Jackery 300 and Anker 521 ran away with the best mobility scores, thanks to their small form and small battery size. However, for larger power stations, it was hard to ignore the impressive weight-to-power output ratio of the Anker Solix C1000. With power output that rivals other units with almost double the weight, the Anker was a favorite for off-grid camping and travel-friendly adventures. The ability to stash the Anker C1000 in the backseat and be lifted comfortably with only one person is a huge plus.
The C1000 is portable and easy to carry, given its larger battery size.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
The Biolite BaseCharge 1500 is worth mentioning for its uniform shape and packability. Built-in handles and a flat top help the Biolite maintain a square shape, which is ideal for packing and stashing in tight spaces, such as in a van build or in the closet of your home.
A flat top and square dimensions make the Biolite a good option when packability is a high priority.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
For larger wheeled models, the Jackery 2000 Plus held up in our surface roll test. Its wide and stout form helps it maintain a degree of stability when compared to taller, narrower options like the Ecoflow Delta Pro.
The included wheels and handles are essential to haul this large power station around effectively.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Although we were bigger fans of the Eco Flow Delta Pro's handle design and more robust telescoping pull handle, the Jackery 2000 Plus weighs in at 62.30 lbs compared to EcoFlow's 97.24 lbs.
Ease of Use
Our ease of use metric covers important features, design characteristics, and the overall user-friendliness of each power station. While all power stations are intended to provide a power source, each model differs in their overall design and included features.
Some models have an intuitive mobile app to fully control your power station wirelessly. Others may offer expandable battery capacity, and some are advertised as being used as an uninterruptible power supply.
Speciality Features
Expansion Compatible
Bypass Mode
Uninteruptible Power Supply (UPS)
Emergency Power Supply
(EPS)
Anker 521
✖
✖
✖
✖
Anker Solix C1000
BioLite BaseCharge 1500
✖
✖
✖
✖
EcoFlow Delta Pro
✖
Goal Zero Yeti 1500X
✖
✖
✖
Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus
✖
Jackery Explorer 300
✖
✖
✖
✖
Along with identifying important features, we also spent plenty of time interacting with and scoring each model's display and screen functions. A good display goes a long way during times of need, such as during a power outage or out in a remote destination where a functional display becomes critical.
While maybe not the first consideration when shopping for a power station, a good display becomes an important factor when the power goes out.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The EcoFlow Delta Pro landed at the top of our usability metric. A user-friendly and feature-rich app allowed for custom charging speeds, increased power output for high-rated appliances, and on/off control for all ports. The EcoFlow also functions as an uninterrupted power supply and provides one of the largest battery expansion capabilities on the market.
The EcoFlow Delta Pro is one of the most extensive units on the market. Between its dialed display, massive expansion capabilities, and a plethora of add-ons, this power station checks off all the boxes.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
When it comes to usability, determining which units display power and charge functions, such as remaining charge, recharge estimate, and power in/out ranks high in importance. The Anker Solix C1000 impressed us not only with its large, easy-to-read screen, but it also displays all the important functions discussed above.
The Anker C1000 has a clean and functional display.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
The Goal Zero Yeti 1500x was another unit we appreciated for its clean and functional app. It offers plenty of customization options, including custom charging speeds, an energy history display, and the ability to toggle ports on and off wirelessly. The 1500x also offers an expandable battery option and a home expansion kit to link directly to your home's circuits.
Each manufacturer has their own app with various levels of control over custom charging speeds and monitoring charging status. The EcoFlow (pictured left side) was our personal favorite.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Conclusion
Our breakdown of portable power stations aims to simplify the confusing and continually evolving information involved in purchasing one. After months of extensive testing and research, we hope our portable power station review provides the necessary knowledge and guidance to help you make the right decision for your power needs.
The right portable power station can help supplement your power needs, whether you're on the road, at home, or anywhere in between.