Portable power stations are a great way to take power with you when out and about — like a power bank, only much bigger. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or going on an RV vacation, there’s a power station to suit your needs.
Also: The best cheap portable power stations
These units store varying amounts of power depending on capacity, and can be recharged using multiple power sources, from a standard AC outlet, a car’s 12V port, to eco-friendly solar panels! And unlike traditional generators, they require minimal maintenance, are safer to use both indoors and outdoors — yes, there are IP-rated water- and dust-resistant units — and are built to last for years with little hassle.
What is the best portable power station right now?
Over the past few years, I’ve tested over 100 different power stations to find out which ones truly stand out. My top pick right now is the Jackery Solar Generator Kit 4000. In my testing, I found that this massive powerhouse holds an enormous amount of energy and can power your home for up to two weeks. Read on to discover the rest of the best portable power stations you can buy today.
Also: How I used this portable power station to bring electricity to a caveman
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The best power stations of 2025
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Jackery, a familiar name in the power station game for over a decade now, has a new power station called the Explorer 2000 Plus, and this thing is a total game changer. You can scale it up from a single unit that’s good for a day or two of camping to an array of batteries and solar panels that can power your home for two weeks.
You read that right: two weeks.
But you might notice that something is sitting atop my Explorer 2000 Plus. That’s an add-on PackPlus E2000 Plus battery pack that adds an additional 2,042.8 Wh of electrical storage capacity to the system. A single PackPlus E2000 Plus weighs in at 41.9 lbs (19 kg), so the two units combined come in at over 100 lbs (46.9 kg). That’s quite a lot of weight, but in my experience, everything slots together well, and the unit is surprisingly portable.
Review: This portable battery station can power your home for 2 weeks
This is a really big setup, so while it’s not for everyone, it without a doubt represents the ultimate in portable power storage.
The reviews of this setup from buyers on Amazon reflect my feelings — that this is a solid, well-made system that delivers on the marketing claims it makes.
Jackery Solar Generator Kit 4000 tech specs: Capacity: 4,085.6Wh | Power: 3,000 watts/6,000 watts surge | Weight: 61.5 pounds | Connectivity: 10 ports
Outputs
- 4x AC Output
- 2x USB-A
- 2x USB-C
- Car output
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Within moments of getting the Power 1000 out of the box, one aspect that stood out immediately to me was its solid construction: The outer shell is tough, effectively resisting knocks and bumps without flexing or bowing, which is what a power station like this — something that’s been built to take out and about — really needs.
The interface of the Power 1000 is refreshingly simple, featuring just a few buttons and switches along with an LCD display. It avoids the confusion of tiny, difficult-to-identify “mystery meat” buttons or needing an app for essential functions.
Review: DJI made a rugged power station that I can’t recommend enough to drone users
The SDC ports on the Power 1000, designed specifically for fast-charging DJI drone batteries, are indeed a thoughtful and useful addition for drone pilots. Each port can be used to charge one battery at a time, which works efficiently if you consistently recharge your batteries immediately after use rather than waiting until you have a pile of them.
However, to charge your drone batteries you will need bespoke cables, which are sold separately, adding to the cost. There are cables for the
DJI Power 1000 tech specs: Capacity: 1,024Wh | Power: 2,200 watts | Weight: 28.5 pounds | Connectivity: Eight ports
Outputs
- 2x AC Output
- 2x USB-C
- 2x USB-A
- SDC
- SDC Lite
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Maybe you’re the sort of person who needs a whole-home power backup system, perhaps because you live in an area that gets hit by hurricanes or other natural disasters. Or perhaps you’re just looking to switch to solar energy, need a reliable backup for emergencies, or want to save some money on your energy bill.
If this is you, then a system like the EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra could very well be the perfect fit. This versatile powerhouse is designed to meet all your energy needs with ease and efficiency.
EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra tech specs: Capacity: 6,144Wh | Power: 7,200 watts | Weight: 70 pounds | Connectivity: 11 ports
Outputs
- 6x AC Output
- 2x USB-A
- 2x USB-C
- DC Output
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Power stations are all the rage and finding their way into homes, RVs, cars, trucks, and even tents and are the perfect way to transport AC power to places where there isn’t a convenient power socket. But until now, transporting them has meant rolling them on built-in wheels or taking the less glamorous approach of lugging them with a built-in handle. This is OK for short distances but rapidly becomes inconvenient if you need to transport the power station more than a short distance.
Bluetti has the answer in the form of the Handsfree 2 — a power station that fits into its own backpack!
Review: One of the most portable power stations I’ve tested is $200 off right now
At the core of the Handsfree 2 is a 512Wh power station, but rather than being the usual box shape, this one has been constructed into an ultra-thin form factor. However, that ultra-thin design doesn’t mean that you have to compromise.
You’re still getting a power station with an LCD panel to show you all the important information, an AC outlet good for 700W of continuous output (1,200W surge), two USB-C ports, a USB-A port, and even advanced features such as UPS-level switching and pass-through charging. The charge capacity is enough to recharge a smartphone about 15 to 20 times, a laptop or drone half a dozen times, and an action camera such as the GoPro about 30 times.
Then there’s the backpack. This 60-liter backpack (or 3,600 cu in) is designed to carry not only the power station but whatever else you need, up to a maximum of 30kg. If you’re not used to backpacking, let me tell you — that this is a fair load. The power station fits into the back of the backpack, close to the harness, keeping the weight against your body, in the most ergonomic position. There’s a side panel that enables the power station to be accessed and used without taking it out of the backpack.
You will no doubt notice that there are a lot of Bluetti and EcoFlow power stations here, and that’s because these two companies are seriously innovating as of late. I mean, take a look at this — a backpack housing a power stations! How neat is that. As to which makes the best power stations, thy both make amazing units.
Outputs
- 1x AC Output
- 2x USB-A
- 2x USB-C
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Portable power stations have gotten good. We’ve gotten to the point where there’s not much that sets one apart from another these days. That is, of course, until one manufacturer decides to shake things up. Anker did exactly that with the Solix C800 Plus, the first portable power station with detachable 3-mode camping lights.
The Solix C800 Plus, at its heart, is a power beast, stuffed with durable LiFePO4 batteries that can stash a whopping 768Wh of power. Plus, it’s got ten ports ready to charge up all your gadgets. It’s like the Goldilocks of power stations; it’s just the perfect size, packing plenty of punch without being a hassle to lug around.
Review: This portable power station has a standout feature that makes camping safer than ever
The unit is also incredibly well-built. Anker has housed the Solix C800 Plus’ industrial-grade components and advanced circuitry in a tough, drop-proof, unibody construction shell. I can stand and jump on this unit and it doesn’t flex or creak or seem like it’s going to implode, which is good.
But this is all pretty standard for a good-quality power station. Where the Solix C800 Plus shines are the accessories hidden inside a flip-top compartment on the top of the unit. Inside this compartment are two battery-powered LED lights and a telescopic pole.
Reviewers on Amazon and Reddit agree that this is a perfect portable power station, that it delivers the power that Anker claims, and that it’s ideal for camping.
Anker Solix C800 Plus tech specs: Capacity: 768Wh | Power: 1,200 watts/1,600 watts surge | Weight: 24 pounds | Connectivity: Eight outlets
Outputs
- 5x AC Output
- 2x USB-C
- 2x USB-A
- 12V Output
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When it comes to power stations, the AC60P — a follow-up to Bluetti’s earlier AC60 — is as close to perfection as you can get. As I would expect from a prestigious brand like Bluetti, the unit lives up to all the claims made on the spec sheet.
On the front of the unit are most of the ports, gently glowing buttons that turn the unit on and control the AC and DC outputs and a bright, feature-packed, yet easy-to-read display that shows all the important information at a glance.
The wireless charging mat on the top also offers added flexibility. Just pop your phone on the top to get an instant, no-fuss top-up. No cables are required. Oh, and it also has a built-in light for even more accessibility when you’re out in the field.
Review: The most durable power station I’ve tested dares Mother Nature to do her worst
As you might imagine, I was somewhat hesitant to test out this unit’s dust and water resistance — it is, after all, a box filled with electricity — but that didn’t stop me from taking it out in some of the dampest, dirtiest environments that I could find, and I was blown away by how well this unit shrugged off the elements. It’s certainly my first choice of portable power stations for use in inclement weather.
Internet reviews suggest that this unit is a popular choice among campers, photographers, and videographers, and others who need power in harsh conditions.
Bluetti AC60P tech specs: Capacity: 504Wh | Power: 600 watts/1,200 watts surge | Weight: 20.1 pounds | Connectivity: Seven outlets
Outputs
- 2x AC Outputs
- USB-C
- 2x USB-A
- 12V Output
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The AC240 thrives in any environment and joins its predecessor, the AC60P, in being a power station that is just as comfortable braving the rain, snow, and relentless dust as it is in the comfort of your home or office.
When it comes to power stations, the AC240 is as well-made and flawless as it gets, and it lives up to all the claims on the spec sheet. As part of this review, I tested the capacity, power outputs, and charge times — and everything passed with flying colors.
Most of the ports are located on the front of the unit: three buttons for controlling the AC, DC, and USB outputs and a bright, feature-packed display with important information at a glance.
Review: Need backup power for when the lights go out? Check out the Bluetti AC200MAX
The unit weighs over 70 pounds, so it may not be easy for most people to carry it around for long distances. However, it does have handles on either side — resembling an ammo crate — allowing for easier movement by two people if needed.
The user reviews are pretty much what I’d expect to read after using this for a few months. It’s a solid unit, a great performer, but heavy and can be noisy when charging at full power.
Bluetti AC240 tech specs: Capacity: 1,536Wh | Power: 2,400 watts/3,600 watts surge | Weight: 72 pounds | Connectivity: Nine outlets
Outputs
- 3x AC Outputs
- 2x USB-C
- 2x USB-A
- 12V/30A DC
- 12V Output
- 1 x NEMA TT-30
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If fast charging is your priority, then the Ecoflow Delta Max 2000 has to be on your list as one of the fastest-charging home battery backups on the market. When charged from a standard wall outlet, you’ll get it from zero to 80% battery in just 65 minutes and taking it to a full charge can be done in under two hours.
I like this a lot because there are plenty of times when I rely on my portable power station and only have access to power — perhaps from a gasoline generator or a wall outlet — for a limited period. This feature allows me to top it up quickly whenever the opportunity arises.
Review: Ecoflow Delta Max 2000 can get you through most power outages
One feature I love about this unit is the handles on either end. They remind me of handles on ammo boxes, and they’re great when you need to lug close to 50 pounds of weight in this unit. Handles on power stations are often overlooked, but if you rely on them to be portable, they can make or break a portable power station.
And reviewers on Amazon agree. Along with being impressed by the quality and its ability to run large appliances, there are quite a few comments about how portable this device is.
Ecoflow Delta Max 2000 tech specs: Capacity: 2,016Wh | Power: 2,400 watts/3,000 watts surge | Weight: 48 pounds | Connectivity: 13 outlets
Outputs
- 4x AC Outputs
- 4x USB-A
- 2x USB-C
- 12V Output
- 2x DC5521 Output
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What are the tariffs in the U.S.?
The recent U.S. tariffs on imports from countries like China, Vietnam, and India aim to boost domestic manufacturing but are likely to drive up prices on consumer electronics. Products like smartphones, laptops, and TVs may become more expensive as companies rethink global supply chains and weigh the cost of shifting production.
Also: Tariff war has tech buyers wondering what’s next. Here’s what we know
Devices such as power stations are predominantly manufactured in these regions, and are now subject to tariffs as high as 54% on Chinese imports and 46% on Vietnamese goods. As a result, consumers may see price increases of approximately 20% on these items.
Manufacturers are exploring options like relocating production to countries with lower tariffs, but such shifts are complex and may not provide immediate relief. In the short term, shoppers should anticipate higher costs for headphones and wearables due to these trade policies.
Right now, it looks like some tech may be exempt from the issued tariffs, but since it’s always changing and developing, we are keeping an eye on it and will update you on the latest.
Also: Tariff exemptions for electronics offer a break for tech – but not for long
In my experience with power stations, I’ve identified three distinct groups of people who typically purchase these devices.
- Backup Power Seekers: The first group consists of individuals looking for backup power solutions in case of outages. These users often seek systems that can provide power for a few hours or even days, depending on the frequency of power interruptions in their area. Their options range from compact units that can easily slide under a bed or fit in a cupboard to larger systems that occupy more space but offer greater capacity.
- Off-Grid Enthusiasts: The second group includes those who aim to save money and gain a degree of off-grid capability by harnessing solar energy. By using one or more solar panels, they can generate power for their homes or electric vehicles (EVs). I’ve noticed a growing trend of people investing in these systems. While the financial savings may not be immediate, a well-designed solar setup can ensure long-term benefits and sustainability.
- Portable Power Pros: Finally, there are individuals who need portable power solutions for activities like camping, working remotely, or traveling in an RV. The versatility of being able to charge these units from solar panels, a vehicle’s electrical system, or any available AC outlet is a significant advantage.
These power stations can support a variety of devices, including home appliances, laptops, drones, cameras, and even medical equipment like CPAP machines.
Power stations represent a modern evolution of traditional gasoline generators, offering numerous benefits. They are typically smaller, quieter, and free from the unpleasant odors associated with gasoline. Additionally, they can be safely operated in confined spaces.
However, there are drawbacks to consider. One of the most significant challenges is the reliance on sunlight for recharging. Without ample sunlight, maintaining an off-grid lifestyle can become complicated. In contrast, it’s much easier to stockpile gasoline than to store sunlight. As a result, there are situations where, despite the drawbacks of gasoline generators-such as their fumes, maintenance needs, and safety risks-they still reign supreme in certain applications.
Understanding the different needs and preferences of power station users can help you choose the right solution for your specific requirements, whether for backup power, off-grid living, or portable energy needs.
The best portable power station is the Jackery Solar Generator Kit 4000. It has a 3,000-watt output, enough power to charge your mobile devices, run a mini-fridge, or essential medical equipment during a camping trip or power outage. It also features solar panels for continuous power when a wall outlet isn’t available.
In my opinion, it is about as close to perfect as a portable power station setup can get.
Power stations represent a significant investment, both financially and in terms of the physical space they occupy. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that you are selecting a model that meets your specific needs. This involves carefully considering several factors:
- Weight: In the realm of portable power stations, bigger isn’t always better. Consider how you will be using the unit. Will it be wheeled from room to room, or will you need to transport it from your vehicle to a campsite? If portability is a priority, you may want a model that can easily fit in a backpack for day trips.
- Battery Capacity: If your intention is to power a home, you will want to invest in a unit with substantial battery capacity. However, keep in mind that higher capacity often translates to a heavier device, which can be cumbersome during off-grid adventures.
- Cost: The price range for power stations can vary widely, with some units costing several thousand dollars while others are available for a couple of hundred. It’s essential to balance your budget with the features you require.
- Charging Options: Consider how you plan to recharge your power station. Will you primarily use AC power from an outlet, or do you prefer the independence that comes with solar charging? Understanding your charging needs will help you choose the right model.
- Battery Chemistry: Traditional lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are common, but newer lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries offer enhanced safety and significantly longer lifespans. This can be an important factor in your decision-making process.
- Warranty: Given the expense of portable power stations, it is advisable to choose manufacturers that provide multi-year warranties. This not only protects your investment but also reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
- Safety: Every unit I have tested has undergone rigorous evaluations, including extended runtime tests for thermal management and overload tests to assess how they handle excessive loads. Safety should always be a top priority when selecting a power station.
In summary, understanding these key factors will empower you to make an informed decision when investing in a power station that aligns with your needs and lifestyle.
Over the past few years, I’ve tested well close to 200 portable power stations to determine which ones truly stand out as the best of the best. Testing these devices properly is no small feat-it takes days to evaluate each unit thoroughly. To streamline the process and ensure accuracy, I’ve developed a comprehensive testing structure.
This approach not only verifies that manufacturers are honest about their spec sheet claims but also ensures the units are safe, reliable, and capable of meeting real-world demands.
Here’s a summary of my testing process:
- Unboxing and Visual Inspection: I start by carefully unboxing and inspecting the unit for build quality, design, and any potential flaws. This step sets the stage for understanding the device’s overall durability and usability.
- Battery Capacity Tests: I measure the actual battery capacity to confirm whether it matches the manufacturer’s claims. This is critical, as overstated capacity can lead to disappointment in real-world use.
- Load and Overload Testing: I test the power station’s ability to handle various loads, including pushing it to its limits to see how it performs under stress. This helps identify whether the unit can reliably power demanding devices.
- Thermal Testing: Heat management is a key safety factor. I run the power station for extended periods to evaluate how well it dissipates heat and whether it remains safe to use.
- Safety Tests: I subject the units to a variety of safety checks, including overload scenarios, to ensure they can handle unexpected conditions without failure.
- Real-World Testing: Finally, I use the power stations in real-life scenarios-whether for camping, working remotely, or during power outages-to assess their performance in practical applications.
Why I’m Uniquely Positioned to Test Power Stations
My extensive background in technology, with over 30 years of experience in the industry and more than 20 years dedicated to writing about it, gives me a deep understanding of these devices. I bring a wealth of technical knowledge to the table, allowing me to evaluate power stations with a critical and informed eye.
Additionally, my passion for the outdoors, whether for recreation or work, means I regularly rely on power stations to enhance my experiences away from traditional AC outlets. These devices have transformed how I work and play, enabling me to seamlessly blend productivity and leisure in any environment. This hands-on experience ensures that my testing process is grounded in real-world practicality, not just lab conditions.
Why This Matters
Portable power stations are a significant investment, and my goal is to help you make an informed decision. By rigorously testing these devices, I ensure that the recommendations I provide are based on performance, safety, and reliability. Whether you’re looking for a backup power solution, an off-grid companion, or a portable energy source for your adventures, my testing process ensures that you can trust the products I recommend.
More on Testing
For more detailed information on how these tests are carried out, check out this post, where I take a deeper dive into the process.
The primary distinction between portable power stations and gasoline generators lies in their energy sources and operation. Portable power stations are equipped with batteries that are pre-charged with electricity before use. In contrast, gasoline generators rely on gasoline, which is burned in an engine to produce electricity.
Gasoline Generators:
Because they combust gasoline, these generators pose significant safety risks when used indoors. The burning process produces carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can lead to suffocation. Additionally, gasoline generators create fire hazards, are often noisy, and emit unpleasant odors that can be disruptive in residential settings.
Portable Power Stations:
In contrast, portable power stations operate quietly, emit no fumes, and produce minimal heat. They require little to no maintenance beyond occasionally checking their charge levels. This makes them an ideal choice for a variety of settings, including indoor use and outdoor activities, without the concerns associated with gasoline generators.
Manufacturers typically offer different runtimes for lamps, refrigerators, CPAP machines, and so on, but if you want to work this out for yourself, you may need two figures.
First, you need the power rating of the device you plan on running, which can usually be found on a label on the device and is measured in Watts (W). You also need to know the capacity of the power station, measured in Watt hours (Wh), which should be printed somewhere on the device.
Let’s say you have a device that consumes 200W and a power station that has a capacity of 2,048Wh, you can get a ballpark runtime for the device using the following equation:
(2048 x 0.85)/200 = 8.7 hours
Note that the capacity of the power station is multiplied by 0.85 to account for efficiency losses.
There are four main distinctions that set portable power stations apart from power banks:
- Capacity: Portable power stations boast significantly larger battery capacities compared to power banks. While power banks are ideal for topping up smartphones or tablets, a power station can recharge devices multiple times due to its much greater capacity, which is typically measured in watt-hours rather than milliampere-hours (mAh).
- Size and Weight: Power banks are compact and lightweight, often small enough to fit in a pocket. In contrast, portable power stations are bulkier and heavier, designed to be transported by hand or wheeled from room to room, making them less convenient for everyday carry.
- Outlets: Power banks generally feature USB ports for charging smaller devices. On the other hand, portable power stations come equipped with AC outlets, allowing them to power a wider range of devices, including larger electronics and appliances.
- Charging Options: Power banks are typically charged using a USB charger, which limits their versatility. Portable power stations, however, can be charged from various sources, including standard wall outlets, solar panels, and vehicle 12V outlets, providing greater flexibility for users.
Other portable power stations we’ve tested
