When comparing Anker 21W 2-Port USB Powerport Solar Charger vs ALLPOWER 60W Solar Panel Charger, the Slant community recommends ALLPOWER 60W Solar Panel Charger for most people. In the question“What are the best solar portable chargers?” ALLPOWER 60W Solar Panel Charger is ranked 2nd while Anker 21W 2-Port USB Powerport Solar Charger is ranked 3rd. The most important reason people chose ALLPOWER 60W Solar Panel Charger is:
Though inclement weather hampers panel effectiveness, these panels offer light water resistance in case of splashes or other mishaps.
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 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 Eleven eyelets give many options for attaching to packs or tents
The eyelets and large panels make it very easy to attach this panel set to hiking or camping equipment and find optimum angles for sunlight capture.
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.
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 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.
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.
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