Have you been shopping for the best 1000 watt solar generator for backup power?
Well, you've come to the right place.
High-quality 1000 watt solar generators act as an efficient backup power supply. You can use these to power your RV, electronic devices, and even lights. They are perfect for home emergencies and can also be carried with you on hiking and camping trips.
This guide shall discuss 1000 watt solar generators, including reviews of the 10 best 1000 watt solar generators you can opt for and an informative buying guide.
So, let’s begin!
What's In This Guide
In this buying guide, we recommend, review and compare the 10 best 1000 watt solar generators for backup power.
We begin by listing our top picks for a variety of common needs and situations, followed by a quick product comparison table and in-depth reviews of our top picks.
Then, we provide you with a buying guide describing the key features & gotchas to look for when buying a 1000 watt solar generator - plus installation, maintenance, and other tips.
Finally, we answer common questions asked about 1000 watt solar generators for backup power.
Hopefully, this buying guide will help you find the best 1000 watt solar generator for your specific needs and situation.
If you have any questions, leave us a comment below.
Best 1000 Watt Solar Generators For Backup Power
- 1Best Overall: Jackery Solar Generator 1000
- 2Best For RV: LIPOWER Portable Power Station
- 3Best For Camping: Goal Zero Yeti 1000x Core Portable Power Station
- 4Best For CPAP Machines: OKMO Portable Power Station
Jackery Solar Generator 1000
Best Overall
110V
11.84 x 7.59 x 9.2 inches
Number Of Ports
724 months
22.04 lbs
LIPOWER Portable Power Station
Best For RV
110V
9.1 x 12.6 x 10.2 inches
Number Of Ports
1024 months
26.4 lbs
Goal Zero Yeti 1000x Core Portable Power Station
Best For Camping
120V
9.86 x 15.25 x 10.23 inches
Number Of Ports
1324 months
31.68 lbs
OKMO Portable Power Station
Best For CPAP Machines
110V
12.6 x 9.05 x 10.24 inches
Number Of Ports
102-years
30 lbs
1. Best Overall: Jackery Solar Generator 1000
The Jackery Explorer 1000 Solar Generator is our top pick for the best 1000 watt solar generator. Unlike many others, this unit comes with 2 SolarSaga 100 panels that can bring charging to 80% in under an hour.
Its excellent capacity and 1000 watt output allow you to easily power up multiple appliances such as a TV or mini-fridge.
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
This solar generator uses clean and renewable solar energy to provide backup electricity. The quiet and noise-free function lets you enjoy your peace. An on and off button makes controlling this unit more straightforward.
The Jackery Explorer 1000 supports both recharging and discharging simultaneously. A unique system protects the battery, so its longevity is not reduced. Three AC outlets allow you to power a range of appliances.
Limitations & Issues
Users have reported that the solar panels are not the most weatherproof. Plus, they do not come with a case for carrying and protection.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Award: | Best Overall |
Voltage: | 110V |
Dimensions: | 11.84 x 7.59 x 9.2 inches |
Wattage: | 1000W |
Number Of Ports: | 7 |
Warranty: | 24 months |
Item Weight: | 22.04lbs |
Solar Panels Included? | Yes |
Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
2. Best For RV: LIPOWER Portable Power Station
The LIPOWER Portable solar station is perfect for providing electricity to RV appliances and is a must-have for camping and fishing trips. It has only one output port less than the Gocheer Solar Generator and is perfect for charging multiple appliances simultaneously.
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
This unit has a battery capacity of 1100 watt-hour, which is relatively high for a 1000 watt generator. The unit works quietly and efficiently to power up lights, mobiles, laptops, TVs, drones, and other gadgets through its versatile output ports.
The Battery Management System or BMS function ensures the battery performance is steady and that the battery life is preserved. The battery can also withstand temperatures ranging from -4℉ to 104℉. The BMS prevents short circuits, overvoltage, overcurrent, overload, overheating, and other factors that can damage the battery.
Limitations & Issues
You should keep in mind that the LCD is too small and does not display all the necessary information.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Award: | Best For RV |
Voltage: | 110V |
Dimensions: | 9.1 x 12.6 x 10.2 inches |
Wattage: | 1000W |
Number Of Ports: | 10 |
Warranty: | 24 months |
Item Weight: | 26.4lbs |
Solar Panels Included? | No |
Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
3. Best For Camping: Goal Zero Yeti 1000x Core Portable Power Station
The Goal Zero Yeti 1000x Core provides tough competition to the Jackery Explorer 1000.
It can be easily recharged via a carport, wall outlet, or solar panels. Its excellent battery capacity and portable design allow multipurpose usage.
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
Apart from using clean, renewable energy to function, this unit has a body built from eco-friendly materials. The shipping, packaging, and production also use 100% carbon-free processes, as promised by the manufacturer. This makes the unit a desirable purchase for environmentalists.
This solar generator can be recharged using four different methods. 2 wall outlets, including a fast recharge port, offer 9 and 5 hours of recharge time, respectively. You can recharge your unit in under 9 hours using a carport and in 4 hours using 300 Watt solar panels.
Limitations & Issues
When compared to certain other units, the weight might be a bit too heavy for some when it comes to moving such a unit around.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Award: | Best For Camping |
Voltage: | 120V |
Dimensions: | 9.86 x 15.25 x 10.23 inches |
Wattage: | 1000W |
Number Of Ports: | 13 |
Warranty: | 24 months |
Item Weight: | 31.68 Pounds |
Solar Panels Included? | No |
Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
4. Best For CPAP Machines: OKMO Portable Power Station
The OKMO portable solar generator is quite affordable when it comes to the features it offers. This is one of the best 1000 watt solar generators to run a CPAP machine for a sufficient time.
The unit also offers 10 output ports, multiple accessories, and 4 recharging options.
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
The OKMO portable generator offers a BMS system that helps protect the battery from damage by preventing short circuits and overload. The manufacturer also boasts an ultra-high battery performance of 95 percent.
The unit comes with all necessary accessories except for a solar panel. These include an AC adapter, a car cable, a manual, and a product warranty card. The product comes with a 2-year unconditional warranty.
Limitations & Issues
While reliable, this isn’t the most durable generator out there. Also, some users have stated they wished the recharge time was shorter.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Award: | Best For CPAP Machines |
Voltage: | 110V |
Dimensions: | 12.6 x 9.05 x 10.24 inches |
Wattage: | 1000W |
Number Of Ports: | 10 |
Warranty: | 2-years |
Item Weight: | 30 Pounds |
Solar Panels Included? | No |
Battery: | Lithium-polymer Battery |
1000 Watt Solar Generator Buying Guide
Now that we have reached the end of our 10 best 1000 watt solar generators review list, we must consider a few factors that can help you choose the right product. Let's get started!
What Is A 1000 Watt Solar Generator, And How Does It Work?
A solar generator is an appliance that uses solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity which is stored in its lithium-ion or a lithium-polymer battery. Most units are portable. Portability is dependent on weight, size, and design.
A solar generator has a battery, inverter, MPPT controller, and solar panels:
Features To Consider
Some features that you must consider before picking one of the best 1000 watt solar generator are mentioned below!
Battery Type
Most generators offer lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries. Some others offer saltwater or lead-acid batteries. Lithium batteries last the longest and are the most lightweight. They also have an excellent life cycle that allows recharging and discharging for a sufficient time without the battery capacity dropping below 80%.
Battery Capacity
The higher the battery capacity, the easier it is to run heavy-duty appliances. It also defines how many devices you can charge simultaneously. Battery producers recommend discharging to only 50% battery capacity to increase longevity.
Portability
If you want to use your generator for camping, fishing, hunting, road parties, or traveling, then portability is a must. A portable unit should be lightweight, must have a handle, and should not be too large.
Fast Recharging
If you have no patience or hope to use your unit frequently, then consider a product that offers fast or even wireless recharging. Pass-through charging and multiple port recharging may also come in handy.
Output Ports
Purchase a generator with a higher amount of ports if you wish to connect many devices simultaneously. Versatile port options are always a good feature.
1000 Watt Solar Generator Installation
You don't exactly need to install a 1000 watt solar generator. Most generators will come with proper cables and even solar panels. All you need to do is connect your wiring properly for recharging.
Use a car cable for carport recharge and an AC cable with a wall outlet for standard recharging. Wait for your unit to beep at 100% to ensure a full recharge.
If you are using a solar panel, connect your wires correctly. Always open your panels and fix them into their brackets so they can absorb maximum sunlight.
Ensure you read user manuals and follow the instructions for your model correctly. Only recharge and discharge at the same time if your unit supports pass-through charging. Otherwise, you could damage your battery.
Maintenance & Operating Costs
You will incur zero to little maintenance costs and operating charges. Sunlight is free, and most batteries last for 25 to 30 years. Occasional checkups, cleaning, and proper storage will ensure a longer lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can a 1000W solar generator run?
A 1000 watt solar generator can easily power a laptop, MacBook, electric bike, mini-fridge, camera, projector, stereo, mini washing machine, mobiles, mini TV, and any other device that requires less than 1000 watts of power.
How long does a 1000 watt solar generator last?
Depending on the usage of watts per hour, a solar generator will run camping lights for 76 hours, a grill for 50 minutes, and a mini-fridge for 66 hours. The output and usage ultimately decide how long one recharge will last.
What size charge controller do I need for 1000 watts?
For a 1000 watt solar generator, you will need an MPPT charge controller of at least 40 amperes.
Do solar generators work at night?
Yes, solar generators work at night if they have enough charge stored in the battery.
Do solar generators work on cloudy days?
Yes, solar generators work perfectly on cloudy days if they have been recharged beforehand.
Are Solar Generators safe?
Yes, solar generators are safer than gas generators. They do not have any toxic emissions, and the lithium-ion batteries are safer than a gas-filled tank.
Final Verdict: What Is The Best 1000 Watt Solar Generator For Backup Power?
We have finally reached the end of this guide, and we hope you found our list of the 10 best 1000 watt solar generators quite useful. We made sure to cover a variety of units so you can find a suitable generator for all needs.
We recommend the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 if you are looking for an all-rounder that is durable, portable, has a good battery capacity, and comes with solar panels. Jackery is a fast-growing leader in the off-grid solar generator market for good reasons.
If you need more ports, we recommend the Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core Portable Power Station.
On the other hand, if you are someone who hates long recharging times, you should consider the AMPROAD Epic 1000 Portable Power Station.
Happy shopping!
