Slant community chat on Discourse| 3 Recommended Products | Recommendations | Weight | Dimensions | Wattage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 SunJack 14W Solar Charger With Battery Pack· · · | 2 | 0 | 24 oz (33 oz with batteries) | Folded 6.5” L x 9.25” W x 2” H, unfolded 31.5” L x 9.25” W x 1” H | 14W |
| #2 ALLPOWER 60W Solar Panel Charger· · · | 2 | 0 | 47.9 oz | Unfolded 44.8 x 23.6 x 0.19 in, folded 12 x 7.5 x 2.6 in | 60W |
| #3 Anker 21W 2-Port USB Powerport Solar Charger· · · | 2 | 0 | 14.7 oz | Unfolded 26.4 × 11.1 × 0.2 in, folded 11.1 × 6.3 × 1.1 in | 21W |
Pro Additional pockets and bands can carry devices
Multiple options for holding devices allows for charging without having to come up with unnecessary carrying methods.
Pro Included battery allows for usage in more versatile conditions
This package comes with an 8000 mAh external battery that can be fully charged by the panels in a reported 5 hours—impressively fast—and allows device batteries to be charged under less-than-ideal weather conditions or at night.
Con Poor price-to-watts ratio
Inclusion of a battery has pushed the price up to surprisingly high levels, despite the panels producing less wattage than competitors. If the user doesn't plan on using the battery, or already has a high-quality external battery, this may not be the most effective option.
Con External battery means more cables and small components
The inclusion of an external battery can complicate carriage by adding additional cables or pieces that can be lost.
Con Larger size with lower voltage than competitive panels
Other panels can produce more current with a smaller profile, and the included clips are less versatile than the eyelets that are often included with other models.
Pro Water resistant packaging increases portability
Though inclement weather hampers panel effectiveness, these panels offer light water resistance in case of splashes or other mishaps.
Pro High-output DC plug allows for laptop charging
Unlike most portable solar panel chargers, this set has a built-in system that can charge a variety of laptop computers (albeit while the computers are in a low power mode) without the need for an additional power inverter. Be sure to check online for compatibility before purchase, though.
Con Bulky for a solar panel set
Though offset by superior power output, these panels can be a little more difficult to transport—when unfolded these panels are almost 4 ft long and 2 ft wide. They also weigh 3 lbs, two to three times the average panel set.
Con Only one USB port limits handheld charging options
The DC output occupies the space where many other panel sets have a second USB port, so charging multiple handheld devices is impossible with this set.
Pro Identifies most effective voltage for devices
The Anker is equipped with technology to identify the most effective charging conditions for devices plugged in, to offer the quickest charge without wasted energy. Keep in mind that this requires a relatively strong level of direct sunlight to utilize.
Pro Higher-voltage panels can handle more power-hungry devices
21W panel set can accommodate larger or more power-hungry handheld devices, able to charge a tablet and a phone simultaneously.
Con Lacks water resistance
The Anker does come with a polyester sleeve that can provide some protection, but the unit is not water-resistant, so care must be taken in the rain or other wet conditions.
Con No included battery storage
This set of panels don't come with a battery, so charging will be impossible in poor weather conditions and night time. The user can overcome this by providing their own battery.
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