When comparing Anker 21W 2-Port USB Powerport Solar Charger vs SunJack 14W Solar Charger With Battery Pack, the Slant community recommends SunJack 14W Solar Charger With Battery Pack for most people. In the question“What are the best solar portable chargers?” SunJack 14W Solar Charger With Battery Pack is ranked 1st while Anker 21W 2-Port USB Powerport Solar Charger is ranked 3rd. The most important reason people chose SunJack 14W Solar Charger With Battery Pack is:
Multiple options for holding devices allows for charging without having to come up with unnecessary carrying methods.
Specs
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Pros
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.
Pro Eyelets allow panels to be strapped to a backpack
These panels can be laid out or propped against an object while stationary, or tied to a backpack in order to charge while on the move.
Pro As portable as a tablet
When folded, this set of panels is about one foot by six inches, slightly larger than an iPad. With a basic bag or a backpack, the panels won't be a massive drain on available space. This particular set of panels weighs in at 14 oz (less than a pound), so it won't be a major impact on most hikes or backpacking trips.
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.
Cons
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 Monochromatic panels are less efficient than modern options
The Anker Powerport Solar uses a more dated monochromatic panel that, while more durable than modern options, is generally heavier and usable in fewer scenarios than modern (CIGS) equivalents.
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.
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.
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