Whether you like to hike or camp, knowing about portable solar panels is a must. However, finding the right one can be difficult if you don’t know what you’re looking for. If you want to generate electricity off the grid, then a portable solar charger is an essential item.
Portable solar panels tend to pair with most rechargeable battery packs, while others come with one included. You may think that size is all that matters when it comes to generating electricity, but there are other things to take into account.
Before you go deep into researching or buying something expensive, let me tell you a bit about some of the best portable solar panels.
4 Best Portable Solar Panels
Solar Panel #1: BigBlue 3 28W Solar Charger
This big portable solar panel comes with 3 USB charging ports, which also recognizes different smart devices for optimal charging speed.
This panel is lightweight and foldable, so it is easy to carry and pack wherever. More so, the BigBlue can convert up to 21.5 -23.5% of solar power into free energy when placed under enough sunlight.
For a reasonable price, the BigBlue allows you to charge your devices, even when there is little light. It comes with an extra panel for better energy usage, but that also makes for a heavier panel.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable | Bulky |
| Able to charge without much sunlight | Heavy |
| Efficient |
Solar Panel #2: Anker PowerPort 21W
This portable solar panel comes with the PowerIQ fast charging technology, making it very efficient when placed under direct sunlight. The canvas is weather-resistant and protects the panels.
The Anker comes with a 3-ft micro USB cable, a welcome guide, and an 18-month warranty, just in case you aren’t satisfied.
While this solar panel may only work under direct sunlight, it is compatible with most Apple and Android devices. It doesn’t support older devices, though, like the iPod Classic, iPod shuffle, HP TouchPad, or Asus tablets.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable | Small case |
| Light Weight | May not charge in cloudy conditions |
| Efficient |
Solar Panel #3: Ryno Tuff 21W USB Solar Charger
This affordable solar panel is very efficient, using the Sunpower X-Series solar cells to charge devices in as little as 2 hours. The Ryno Tuff is compatible with Apple and Android devices, along with USB electronic devices.
This panel is lighter and very powerful, so it gives you 21 watts with only 3 panels. Plus, if something happens to your solar panel, you will receive a brand new one under its lifetime warranty.
You can charge up to two devices, all while this device can distribute energy efficiently to charge effectively. The 600D waterproof canvas makes this solar panel durable and you can take it everywhere you want, from backpacking and hiking, to traveling to remote areas.
As a bonus, for every Ryno Tuff you buy, this company will plant a tree through the National Forest Foundation.
| Pros | Cons |
| Very Affordable | Smaller panels |
| Light Weight | May not charge in cloudy conditions |
Lifetime Warranty
Solar Panel #4: SunJack 25W
The SunJack is a little more expensive than the rest of the portable solar panels in this list, but it is very durable and can withstand high temperatures.
This panel can charge up to 2 Amps of power per USB port. This device also comes with a built-in smart IC chip that identifies your device and can speed its charge.
This portable panel also comes with a 12-month free warranty by another U.S. company just in case anything goes wrong. The SunJack also has a mesh pocket that can hold things like cables and batteries for safekeeping.
You can take this portable panel wherever you need a durable and reliable charger, but keep in mind that it is heavy and very bulky.
| Pros | Cons |
| Efficient | Expensive |
| Durable | Heavy |
12-Month Warranty
Keep in mind the panel size and the angle of the sun
When choosing your preferred portable solar panel, there is one thing that must come first and that is the size of the panel. While many prefer a lightweight and small charger, if you need a lot of energy and power, go with the bigger-sized panels.
Another important factor to take into account is that the sun matters, not just the time of day that you use your panel. Keeping your panel at a 90-degree angle makes a big difference.
Some portable solar panels may work late, with little sunshine, if you position them right. That is all to say, your panel should be kept on the ground in a horizontal position.
Now that you know about your choices, you can take a look at the specs and decide which one fulfills your needs the best. These are all affordable and somewhat easy to carry panels, but there are more bulky, heavier, and expensive ones out there.
Don’t let your devices die during the perfect sunset, in an emergency, or when you want to make a cool video.
