Portable Power Stations
The best portable power stations can run lights, small appliances and camping gear for hours, or act as backup power during a storm. Look for models with high wattage to support appliances like space heaters and CPAP devices.
Generally, you’ll want to focus on two ratings when choosing a power station: watt-hours and watts. Both are an indicator of how much energy the battery can hold and deliver.
Features
A Portable Power Station uses a rechargeable battery to store energy and then deliver it to your electronic devices at the flip of a switch. They’re smaller and lighter than gas generators, run quietly, and are safe to use indoors. Larger models can even provide backup power for your home during a power outage.
The most important rating to look for when evaluating a power station is its battery capacity, or watt-hours (Wh). This tells you how much energy the device can hold and supply at one time.
It’s also a good idea to check the maximum load output, or watts. This indicates how many electrical Portable Power Station devices the portable power station can support simultaneously. Look for temperature regulation sensors that detect overheating, and a warranty to ensure you get the most out of your investment.
Some portable power stations can be upgraded with an inverter that allows for a higher power output and more efficient energy conversion. Other features to look for include LED lights that illuminate campsites and other outdoor areas, multiple charging ports, and built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity.
Design
A portable power station is a convenient way to charge your devices when the main electricity source is unavailable. It can power a range of appliances including lights, refrigerators, microwaves and even CPAP machines. Some models feature temperature regulation sensors and can detect power surges to prevent overheating or damage.
Yves Behar’s design firm fuseproject partnered with Californian start-up Yoshino Power to recast the aesthetics of solid-state portable power stations. Their mellow green shade, metal handle and user interface all challenge the conventional look of power tools and equipment.
The battery-powered units use an inverter to convert DC energy into AC, making them suitable for powering electronics and appliances. They also come with multiple ports, up to 11, so that you can charge several devices simultaneously. They can be recharged using a wall outlet, a car port or solar panels. Some models can recharge from 0 to 80% in under an hour, giving you fast and efficient power replenishment. They can also work in the dark, thanks to built-in LED lights and a smart digital display.
Weight
The weight of a Portable Power Station depends on the capacity and features. Larger capacity models typically weigh more, but they also offer a higher output of power and can charge more devices simultaneously. These models are ideal for camping trips and other outdoor adventures. They also provide emergency backup power during power outages.
To determine which portable power station is best for you, start by determining the total wattage of the appliances and devices you want to power. This can be done by checking the wattage rating on each device or using an online wattage calculator. Once you know your wattage requirements, you can choose a portable power station with a suitable battery capacity and output.
Other factors to consider include the number and type of ports, input charging options, solar compatibility, and safety features. Some portable power stations are also equipped with wheels or other accessories to make them easier to transport. Other features to look for include temperature control, overcharge protection, and Portable Power Station charging status indicators. Some are even waterproof. Portable power stations range in price from around $100 to over $500.
Capacity
The capacity of a Portable Power Station is usually indicated by its watt-hour rating, which indicates how many hours it can run certain devices. You will have to research what devices and appliances you will need to power before you can determine how long a particular power station can operate.
You can use simple arithmetic to determine the operating time of a power station, for instance, if you want to know how long a Ark power station with a 1,500 watt-hour capacity can run a TV that uses 100 watts per hour, you can simply divide the Ark’s watt-hour rating by the TV’s rated wattage and get an approximate operating duration. It is, however, recommended to take 85% of the battery’s capacity into account, to factor in energy loss.
Opt for devices with lower watt usage when you can, to make the most of your power station’s capacity. Also, most power stations come with power-saving modes that you can activate to minimize consumption even further. If portability is a priority, opt for a lighter power station that will be easier to carry around during your adventures or emergency situations.
Chargers
Some models have universal USB ports, which are great for charging phones and other portable devices. They may also have AC outlets, which are the types of plugs you would typically find on electrical appliances. Ensure your model has temperature regulation sensors and can detect power surges to keep your equipment safe. It should also come with at least a limited warranty to provide peace of mind.
The capacity and peak wattage of your power station depend on how you plan to use it. If you want it to provide backup power for appliances that require more energy than your cell phone, consider a larger battery with a higher peak wattage.
The lifespan of your power station depends on its chemistry and how often you use it. Many units, such as the Anker 757, use LiFePO4 batteries instead of lithium-ion batteries, which have a higher number of recharge cycles and a longer lifespan. This makes them a better option if you are prone to blackouts or live in an area with frequent storms. You can also purchase a solar-powered model to charge up during the day and bypass the power grid at night.