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10 Best 1000 Watt Solar Generators 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
Shopping for a 1000W solar generator for home backup, camping or another purpose?
You’ve come to the right place.
What Can A 1000W Solar Generator Power?
A 1000W solar generator is a middle of the road power station. It falls between lightweight portable solar generators like the Jackery Explorer 500 and large powerful power stations like the Bluetti AC200MAX.
A 1000W solar generator is a great pick if you are shopping for a power station that’s capable of powering some appliances but it also affordable and compact.
With 1000W or 1kW of AC output, you can power a wide range of household appliances including a full size refrigerator, a TV, some blenders, a humidifier, fan and so on.
A 1kW solar generator can also power camping/travel appliances such as a mini electric cooker, a personal coffee maker, CPAP machine and other small appliances.
Of course, you can also recharge/power your electronics like your smartphone, camera, drone, laptop, lights and others.
You can see how versatile a 1000W solar generator is. It can work as a home backup power station for small & mid-size appliances, and it’s also great for use away from home when camping, in an RV or camper van, or on a boat.
What’s In This Guide?
In this buying guide, we recommend, review and compare the best 1000 watt (give or take a couple hundred watts) solar generators in the market today.
After the reviews, we discuss what to look for when shopping for a 100W solar generator.
If you have any questions, leave us a comment below.
Best 1000 Watt Solar Generators For Backup Power
- 1Best Overall: Jackery Solar Generator 1000
- 2Runner Up: BLUETTI MAXOAK Portable Power Station EB150
- 3Best For Built-In MPPT: Gocheer Portable Power Station
- 4Best For Emergency Power: Generark Solar Generator
- 5Best For RV: LIPOWER Portable Power Station
- 6Best For Camping: Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core Portable Power Station
- 7Best For CPAP Machines: OKMO Portable Power Station
- 8Best Battery Management System (BMS): Pecron E1000 Portable Power Station
- 9Wireless Charging: ECO-WORTHY Portable Power Station
- 10Fast Recharging: AMPROAD Epic 1000 Portable Power Station
-
Jackery Solar Generator 1000
-
Best Overall
-
110V
-
11.84 x 7.59 x 9.2 inches
-
Number Of Ports 7
-
24 months
-
22.04 lbs
-
BLUETTI MAXOAK Portable Power Station EB150
-
Runner Up
-
110V
-
14.6 x 6.5 x 14.4 inches
-
Number Of Ports 7
-
12 months
-
37.9 lbs
-
Gocheer Portable Power Station
-
Best For Built-In MPPT
-
110V
-
12.6 x 9.1 x 7.5 inches
-
Number Of Ports 11
-
4-year protection plan can be purchased separately
-
17.6 lbs
-
Generark Solar Generator
-
Best For Emergency Power
-
110V
-
13 x 9.15 x 9.57 inches
-
Number Of Ports 8
-
5-years
-
23 lbs
-
LIPOWER Portable Power Station
-
Best For RV
-
110V
-
9.1 x 12.6 x 10.2 inches
-
Number Of Ports 10
-
24 months
-
26.4 lbs
-
Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core Portable Power Station
-
Best For Camping
-
120V
-
9.86 x 15.25 x 10.23 inches
-
Number Of Ports 13
-
24 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 10
-
2-years
-
30 lbs
-
Pecron E1000 Portable Power Station
-
Best Battery Manegement System (BMS)
-
110V
-
13.3 x 6.8 x 9.8 inches
-
Number Of Ports 7
-
1-year
-
31.2 lbs
-
ECO-WORTHY Portable Power Station
-
Wireless Charging
-
120V
-
13.2 x 9.1 x 8.1 inches
-
Number Of Ports 12
-
1-year
-
24.25 lbs
-
AMPROAD Epic 1000 Portable Power Station
-
Fast Recharging
-
110V
-
11.3 x 7.6 x 7.6 inches
-
Number Of Ports 12
-
12 months
-
25.7 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
- Comes with 2 solar panels.
- Easy to set up.
- Excellent customer service.
- Easy to carry.
- Excellent function.
Cons
- No carrying case for solar panels.
- Solar panels are not the most weatherproof.
Our Review
Best Features
- Quiet And Clean Operation
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.
- Pass-Through Charging
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. Runner Up: BLUETTI MAXOAK Portable Power Station EB150
The BLUETTI EB150 solar Station is the runner-up on our list of the 10 best 1000 watt solar generators due to its excellent battery capacity and portable design.
This proven unit can be used in an RV, outdoors or can be used as an efficient home backup supply.
Pros
- Professional customer care service.
- Powerful and durable.
- Triple recharging options.
- High battery capacity of 1500 watt-hour.
Cons
- Can be comparatively heavy.
- Does not go into sleep mode automatically.
Our Review
Best Features
- Output And Built-In MPPT
The 7 output ports and built-In MPPT technology make this unit user-friendly. You can connect multiple devices simultaneously, but you can also do this without worrying about added power loss. The unit has 2 AC ports, 1 DC, 1 USB-C, and other ports.
- Triple Recharging
The BLUETTI MAXOAK supports triple recharging options. It can be recharged via a wall outlet in 8 hours, solar panels in 6 hours, and in 8 hours via a generator.
Limitations & Issues
When it comes to comparison with certain other models, this solar generator is on the bulkier side. Even though it can be carried around, it’s not as lightweight as the Jackery Explorer 100 Solar Station.
Specifications |
|
|---|---|
| Award: | Runner Up |
| Voltage: | 110V |
| Dimensions: | 14.6 x 6.5 x 14.4 inches |
| Wattage: | 1000W |
| Number Of Ports: | 7 |
| Warranty: |
12 months |
| Item Weight: | 37.9 Pounds |
| Solar Panels Included? | No |
| Battery: | Lithium-polymer Battery |
3. Best For Built-In MPPT: Gocheer Portable Power Station
The Gocheer Portable Power Station is perfect if you do not want to buy an MPPT controller separately. The built-in MPPT unit prevents power loss.
The 962 Wh Battery capacity ensures that this unit can be an efficient backup option for camping, hiking, traveling, CPAP machines, and indoor use.
Pros
- Perfect for camping and emergencies.
- Excellent capacity.
- Offers 2 wireless charging ports.
- Lightweight design.
Cons
- AC outlets do not work when the unit is charging.
- Can have a noisy operation.
Our Review
Best Features
- Multiple Ports
Unlike the Jackery Explorer and BLUETTI MAXOAK, this unit offers a total of 11 output ports. This means that you can charge 11 devices simultaneously. These include 3 pure sine wave AC ports, 1 fast-charging port, 2 wireless charging ports, 1 PD 18W port, 2 USB-A ports, and a DC port.
- Four Recharge Options
The Gocheer Portable Power Station can be recharged in 4 different ways. This includes wall outlet and solar recharging (100W Solar panels) in 8 hours, carport recharging in 15 hours, and generator recharging in around 6 hours.
Limitations & Issues
Users have reported that the unit does not support pass-through charging. The AC outlets do not work while the unit is plugged in for recharging. Also, this unit can be a bit noisy for some.
Specifications |
|
|---|---|
| Award: | Best For Built-In MPPT |
| Voltage: | 110V |
| Dimensions: | 12.6 x 9.1 x 7.5 inches |
| Wattage: | 1000W |
| Number Of Ports: | 11 |
| Warranty: |
4-year protection plan can be purchased separately |
| Item Weight: | 17.6lb |
| Solar Panels Included? | No |
| Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
4. Best For Emergency Power: Generark Solar Generator
The Generark Solar Generator, along with the Jackery Explorer 1000, is one of the two units on our review list of the 10 best 1000 watt solar generators with solar panels.
This unit can easily power laptops, mobile phones, microwaves, mini-fridge, and CPAP machines. It can be recharged via solar panels, carports, and wall outlets.
Pros
- Comes with solar panels.
- Efficient recharging.
- Easy installation.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Effective backup supply.
Cons
- Solar panel input is 117 watts instead of the 200 watts advertised.
- Slightly noisy.
Our Review
Best Features
- High Battery Capacity
This unit has an extremely high battery capacity. It can provide 1000 watts of power and 2000 watts of maximum output. The battery capacity is a whopping 1002 watt-hour. This unit also offers 8 output ports.
- Fast Recharging
A noteworthy feature of the Generark Solar unit is fast recharging. It can be recharged via a carport and solar panels simultaneously. The unit also supports pass-through charging, which means it can be used while it recharges without compromising battery life so you can have a reliable emergency backup.
Limitations & Issues
The solar panels need to be placed in full sunlight for effective recharge. Even then, some users have reported that the input does not exceed 117 to 150 watts as opposed to the 200 watts advertised.
Specifications |
|
|---|---|
| Award: | Best Emergency Power |
| Voltage: | 110V |
| Dimensions: | 13 x 9.15 x 9.57 inches |
| Wattage: | 1000W |
| Number Of Ports: | 8 |
| Warranty: |
5-years |
| Item Weight: | 23lbs |
| Solar Panels Included? | Yes |
| Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
5. 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
- Supports pass-through charging.
- Offers 10 ports.
- Excellent capacity.
- Portable design.
Cons
- No solar panels included.
- LCD does not display load conditions.
Our Review
Best Features
- Battery Capacity
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.
- Battery Management System
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 |
6. Best For Camping: Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core Portable Power Station
The Goal Zero Yeti 1000 Core gives tough competition to the Jackery Explorer 1000 and BLUETTI MAXOAK units.
It can be easily recharged via a carport, wall outlet, or solar panels. Its excellent battery capacity and portable design allow multipurpose usage.
Pros
- Dual brushless fans for heat dissipation.
- Rounded body edges for durability.
- Has a BMS.
- Excellent customer support.
- LCD with LED backlight.
Cons
- Can be slightly heavy.
Our Review
Best Features
- Eco-Friendly
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.
- Four Recharge Options
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 |
7. 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
- Works effectively as a backup power supply.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Easy-to-read LED panel.
- 10 output ports.
Cons
- Not to the most durable.
- Not the shortest recharge time
Our Review
Best Features
- BMS And Efficiency
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.
- Accessories And Warranty
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 |
8. Best Battery Management System (BMS): Pecron E1000 Portable Power Station
The pecron E1000 has an excellent battery capacity of 1028 Wh. Its input wattage is 1000 watts, but it can offer a power surge of 2000 watts. The compact and portable design makes it a hit at parties, camping trips, and outdoor parties.
Pros
- Bright display.
- Sturdy and robust.
- Portable design.
- Offers a BMS.
- Has a battery capacity of 1028 watt-hour.
Cons
- No built-In MPPT controller.
- Long recharge time.
Our Review
Best Features
- Battery Management System
A BMS system has been incorporated into the pecron E1000 unit to protect the battery. This prevents short circuits and overload in regards to current and voltage. This unit will also not heat up while it recharges through any of 3 recharging options. These include wall outlets, carports, and solar panels.
- Warranty And Accessories
This unit has a 1-year warranty, charging adapter, 4 in 1 DC cable, 4 core aviation to MC4 charging cable, a car cable, and an instruction manual.
Limitations & Issues
This unit does not have a built-in MPPT controller. You will have to purchase one separately if you consider that a necessary feature to prevent power loss.
Specifications |
|
|---|---|
| Award: |
Best Battery Management System (BMS)
|
| Voltage: | 110V |
| Dimensions: |
13.3 x 6.8 x 9.8 inches |
| Wattage: | 1000W |
| Number Of Ports: | 7 |
| Warranty: |
1-year |
| Item Weight: | 31.2lb |
| Solar Panels Included? | No |
| Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
9. Wireless Charging: ECO-WORTHY Portable Power Station
The ECO-WORTHY portable generator made it to our list of the 10 best 1000 watt solar generators due to its versatile output ports.
The best part is that the unit offers wireless charging through compatible devices. You can quickly charge your unit even if you have no cables or sunlight.
Pros
- Offers wireless charging.
- Has 12 output ports.
- Handle aids with portability.
Cons
- Not the most durable.
Our Review
Best Features
- Fast Recharge
This unit offers a fast recharging speed similar to the Goal Zero Yeti Core unit. However, this is supported through dual charging when the generator is connected via a type-C cable and AC output simultaneously.
- Wireless Charging
The most unique feature in this unit is the wireless charging capability. There’s no need for you to bring along separate chargers and deal with twisted wireles as long as you have a compatible device that has a wireless charging function.
- Large Battery Capacity
This unit has one of the largest battery capacities on our list. With a capacity of 1200 Wh and 1000 battery life cycles, this unit promises to provide backup power perfectly. The 12 output ports and pass-through charging further aid this.
Limitations & Issues
The unit could be made more durable to increase longevity. The warranty period should also be increased.
Specifications |
|
|---|---|
| Award: |
Best For Wireless Charging
|
| Voltage: | 120V |
| Dimensions: |
13.2 x 9.1 x 8.1 inches |
| Wattage: | 1000W |
| Number Of Ports: | 12 |
| Warranty: |
1-year |
| Item Weight: | 24.25lbs |
| Solar Panels Included? | No |
| Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
10. Fast Recharging: AMPROAD Epic 1000 Portable Power Station
The AMPROAD Epic 1000 Portable generator has one of the most compact and lightweight designs out there.
And having such a compact build does not affect its performance as the unit can power 12 different devices simultaneously. The best part is the large screen and quiet function.
Pros
- Portable and lightweight.
- Multipurpose function.
- High quality build.
Cons
- Cannot power heavy-duty appliances.
- Does not come with solar panels.
Our Review
Best Features
- Fast Recharging
This unit can be recharged in just under 5 hours using the 200 watt port. You can also use multiple ports to increase charging speed as well. The pass-through charging function allows the user to recharge and discharge simultaneously without compromising battery life.
- Large Display
The easy-to-read large screen displays input wattage, output wattage, remaining battery capacity, and other information in huge font. This allows the user to monitor the unit from far away.
Limitations & Issues
The only drawback of this unit is that it cannot power heavy-duty appliances like a standard television, gaming units, or fridge for a long time.
Specifications |
|
|---|---|
| Award: |
Best For Fast Recharging
|
| Voltage: | 110V |
| Dimensions: |
11.3 x 7.6 x 7.6 inches |
| Wattage: | 1000W |
| Number Of Ports: | 12 |
| Warranty: |
12 months |
| Item Weight: | 25.7 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:
- The battery stores electrical energy.
- An MPPT controller protects the battery and ensures longevity.
- Solar panels absorb sunlight to heat water that produces electricity.
- The inverter turns DC into AC.
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!
About the Author David Roberts
I'm a Mechanical Engineer who's obsessed with solar energy and sustainable living.
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