Shopping for the best 500 watt solar generator for backup power?
You've come to the right place.
With advancements in technology, solar generators have become more powerful and are better adapted for portability. You only need sunlight or electrical ports to keep them up and running. This guide shall discuss 1o of the best 500 watt solar generators out there, including reviews and a buying guide.
Let’s get to it!
What's In This Guide
In this buying guide, we recommend, review and compare the 10 best 500 watt solar generators for backup power.
Then, we provide you with a buying guide describing the key features & gotchas to look for when buying a 500 watt solar generator - plus installation, maintenance, and other tips.
Finally, we answer common questions asked about 500 watt solar generators for backup power.
Hopefully, this buying guide will help you find the best 500 watt solar generator for your specific needs and situation.
If you have any questions, leave us a comment below.
Best 500 Watt Solar Generators For Backup Power
- 1Best Overall: Jackery Portable Power Station
- 2Runner Up: BALDR Portable Power Station
- 3Best For Camping: AWANFI Portable Power Station
- 4Best Triple Charging: Goal Zero Yeti 500X Portable Power Station
- 5Best For Quick Recharge: ROCKPALS Portable Power Station
- 6Best Emergency Supply: PAXCESS Portable Power Station
- 7Best For Versatility: Anker Portable Generator
- 8Best For Travelling: Apowking Portable Power Station
- 9Best For Foldable Solar Panel: ALLPOWERS Mini Portable Power Station
- 10Best For Durability: EF ECOFLOW River Portable Power Station
Jackery Portable Power Station
Best Overall
110V
11.84 x 7.59 x 9.2 inches
Number Of Ports
724 months
13.3 lbs
BALDR Portable Power Station
Runner Up
120V
11.4 x 7.8 x 7.7 inches
Number Of Ports
912 months
13.67 lbs
AWANFI Portable Power Station
Best For Camping
110V
7.2x7.3x5.9 inches
Number Of Ports
912 months
8.8 lbs
Goal Zero Yeti 500X Portable Power Station
Best Triple Charging
120V
12.3 x 14.4 x 9.1 inches
Number Of Ports
924 months
12.9 lbs
ROCKPALS Portable Power Station
Quick Recharge
110V
12 x 9 x 6.1 inches
Number Of Ports
924 months
12.5 lbs
PAXCESS Portable Power Station
Emergency Supply
110V
11.8 x 7.9 x 7.6 inches
Number Of Ports
918 months
10.4 lbs
Anker Portable Generator
Versatility
110V
11.81 x 8.03 x 7.28 inches
Number Of Ports
1118 months
18.3 lbs
Apowking Portable Power Station
Best For Travelling
110V
15.31 x 8.98 x 6.61 inches
Number Of Ports
730-day moneyback guarantee
9.22 lbs
ALLPOWERS Mini Portable Power Station
Foldable Solar Panel
110V
10.4 x 5.5 x 7 inches
Number Of Ports
960 months
11.6 lbs
EF ECOFLOW River Portable Power Station
Durability
110V
9.8 x 6.3 x 7.8 inches
Number Of Ports
918 months
11.3 lbs
1. Best Overall: Jackery Portable Power Station
The Jackery Portable Power Station is our top choice for the best 500 watt solar generator units due to its compactness, portability, and user-friendly design.
This solar generator can power multiple devices through its 7 output ports and is an excellent backup power option for traveling, hiking, or camping.
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
The Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Generator is the top choice on our list of the best 500 watt solar generators. It is a durable generator that has won the hearts of many customers. The robust structure and portable design make it a hit at outdoor parties.
One AC outlet, three USB-A ports, one carport, and two DC ports allow you to connect multiple devices. The handle incorporated into the design makes it easy to carry around and place anywhere.
The unit comes with a car cable, adapter, and a manual for easy setup. The best part is that this unit can be recharged via solar panels, carport, or wall outlets.
Limitations & Issues
The most significant limitation is that this solar generator can only provide power to devices that use less than 500 watts. Moreover, it takes 9.5 hours to recharge via a solar panel and 7.5 hours via a wall outlet.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage: | 110V |
Item Dimensions: | 11.84 x 7.59 x 9.2 inches |
Wattage: | 500W |
Number Of Ports: | 7 |
Warranty: | 24 months |
Watt-Hour: | 518Wh |
Item Weight: | 13.3lbs |
Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
2. Runner Up: BALDR Portable Power Station
BALDR portable power station is the runner-up on our list of the 10 best 500 watt solar generators you can opt for. This unit is an excellent backup power option for road trips.
The handle and lightweight structure make it highly portable. This unit has you covered with 12 months of warranty, an LCD, and 9 output ports.
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
9 output ports, as opposed to the Jackery Explorer's 7, allow this unit to charge even more devices simultaneously. 12V and pure sine wave output ensures the current is pure and does not damage your gadgets or appliances.
An LCD’s low voltage warning and other important readings are easier to view. The quiet operation makes it super user-friendly. The BALDR mode or power mode prevents excess power loss and cuts off power after 3 hours.
Limitations & Issues
The biggest drawback of this unit is that the display does not turn off as long as the unit is powered on or recharging. This wastes a small amount of energy continuously.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage: | 120V |
Item Dimensions: | 11.4 x 7.8 x 7.7 inches |
Wattage: | 500W |
Number Of Ports: | 9 |
Warranty: | 12 months |
Watt-Hour: | 461Wh |
Item Weight: | 13.67lbs |
Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
3. Best For Camping: AWANFI Portable Power Station
The AWANFI portable 500 watt generator is an excellent pick for camping as it can power laptops, mobiles, and lights perfectly. Unlike the Jackery Explorer and BALDR units, this one does not have a separate handle.
The AWANFI unit covers this by providing a lightweight design that can be lifted with just one hand. It's the most lightweight and portable generator on our list!
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
The compact design does not cause a compromise on battery capacity. The AWANFI portable station can easily power up a laptop, TV, phone, tablet, fan, mini-fridge, drone, lights, MP3 player, cameras, and much more simultaneously through its 9 output ports.
The unit can be recharged 20 percent faster with solar panels but can also be recharged using a wall outlet, carport, or generator.
The LCD shows the power status while the BMS system protects the unit from heat-ups and overcharging. The built-in handle sides and nylon bag make it a hit for camping trips, while a 1-year warranty gives you peace of mind.
Limitations & Issues
The most significant drawback is the limitation of use with appliances that require more than 600 watts of power while camping. The appliances include a kettle, grill, dryer, oven, coffee maker, and induction cooker.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage: | 110V |
Item Dimensions: | 7.2x7.3x5.9 inches |
Wattage: | 500W |
Number Of Ports: | 9 |
Warranty: | 12 months |
Watt-Hour: | 518.4Wh |
Item Weight: | 8.8lbs |
Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
4. Best Triple Charging: Goal Zero Yeti 500X Portable Power Station
The Goal Zero Yeti 500X Portable Power Station had to make it to our list of the 10 best 500 watt solar generators due to its triple recharging options and 9 output ports.
The portable design and lightweight build make it an excellent purchase for outdoor events. The built-in charge controller boosts efficiency by 30 percent.
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
This unit is super eco-friendly, and not just because it comes in environmentally-friendly packaging. The manufacturing process uses 100 percent renewable energy during the construction of this unit, so this appliance is perfectly safe for the environment.
Four-port options and three recharge methods make the Goal Zero Yeti 500X user-friendly. You can recharge it through solar panels, a carport, or an AC wall outlet.
The handle and lunchbox design make it very easy to carry around. You can place it nearly anywhere. This unit can be recharged super fast through a 120-watt port in just 4.5 hours.
Limitations & Issues
Some users have complained about this unit having a couple of defective USB ports. So, do keep that in mind.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage: | 120V |
Item Dimensions: | 12.3 x 14.4 x 9.1 inches |
Wattage: | 500W |
Number Of Ports: | 9 |
Warranty: | 24 months |
Watt-Hour: | 505Wh |
Item Weight: | 12.9lbs |
Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
5. Quick Recharge: ROCKPALS Portable Power Station
Similar to the Goal Zero Yeti 500X, this unit also has a super fast recharging time. The ROCKPALS Portable unit can be recharged from 0 to 80 percent in just 3 hours using the 72-watt DC port and 45W USB-C port.
This is one of the best 500 watt solar generators if you are looking for one that can be recharged in just a few hours.
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
The ROCKPALS solar generator does not only stand out due to dual and fast recharging, but the unit also provides an excellent battery capacity. The 505Wh battery can efficiently power up phones, drones, cameras, fans, lights, a mini-refrigerator, projectors, laptops, and even tablets.
9 output ports allow you to charge nine different gadgets simultaneously. Six recharging methods are what genuinely make this solar generator stand out.
You can recharge the ROCKPALS generator via solar panels, wall outlets, cigarette ports, etc. The best part is that you can use a combination of these to recharge the generator in under 3 hours.
The lightweight, portable handle design makes it suitable for camping, hiking, fishing, and vacations.
Limitations & Issues
Even though the recharge time is impressive, this unit won’t be of any help if you plan on running a mini coffeemaker.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage: | 110V |
Item Dimensions: | 12 x 9 x 6.1 inches |
Wattage: | 500W |
Number Of Ports: | 9 |
Warranty: | 24 months |
Watt-Hour: | 505Wh |
Item Weight: | 12.5lbs |
Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
6. Emergency Supply: PAXCESS Portable Power Station
The PAXCESS Portable Power Station is more efficient than the Goal Yeti Zero 500X due to its fantastic battery capacity and ability to successfully power appliances such as a mini air conditioner and fridge.
A maximum output of 750 watts makes this unit the most powerful performer on our list of the best 500 watt solar generators.
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
The Paxcess ROCKMAN 500 watt Portable Generator is powerful enough to provide electricity to an array of appliances simultaneously. It can be used with tech gadgets, a mini fridge, and even mini ACs. It is a great tool to carry on trips for camping and use as an RV backup supply.
9 output ports, including 2 pure sine wave AC outlets, 1 carport, 2 USB ports, 2 DC ports, and 1 USB-C outlet, can charge various appliances simultaneously.
This portable generator can also provide constant power to CPAP machines and can be recharged through six methods. You can use a 60W, 100W, or 120W solar panel, AC wall outlet, USB-C port, or carports to recharge your generator fully.
Battery Management System or BMS prevents safety hazards while an 18-month warranty brings you peace of mind.
Limitations & Issues
The only drawbacks of this unit are the power cord being a bit too short for some users and it taking time to fully recharge.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage: | 110V |
Item Dimensions: | 11.8 x 7.9 x 7.6 inches |
Wattage: | 500W |
Number Of Ports: | 9 |
Warranty: | 18 months |
Watt-Hour: | 519Wh |
Item Weight: | 10.4lbs |
Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
7. Versatility: Anker Portable Generator
The Anker Portable Generator, similar to the ROCKPALS solar unit, has a fast recharge time. This unit can fully recharge in just 5 hours.
Therefore, it's an excellent pick for traveling and use as an emergency backup supply.
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
The huge cell capacity of 778Wh and 11 ports that can charge multiple devices simultaneously truly make the Anker generator stand out.
You can charge a MacBook Air to 50% battery in just under 40 minutes. You can also power mobiles, fans, mini TVs, mini-fridge, projector, camera, lights, and other devices perfectly.
A fast recharge time of 5 hours and a maximum output of 770 watts allows this unit to compete with the PAXCESS solar unit. The 18-month warranty gives ample time to check for issues and flaws in the product.
Limitations & Issues
A significant limitation is that the Anker Portable generator discharges automatically when not in use. Also, there might be a slight buzzing noise.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage: | 110V |
Item Dimensions: | 11.81 x 8.03 x 7.28 inches |
Wattage: | 500W |
Number Of Ports: | 11 |
Warranty: | 18 months |
Watt-Hour: | 778Wh |
Item Weight: | 18.3 Pounds |
Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
8. Best For Travelling: Apowking Portable Power Station
The Apowking Portable Generator is a must-have if you are looking for a portable solar generator that can power smaller gadgets or appliances.
Its high battery capacity and ability to support various machines like the CPAP, car refrigerators, and drones make it a worthy investment.
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
Apowking's 500 watt solar generator offers 7 output ports. These include 2 AC outlets, 4 USB ports, and one DC outlet. A built-in fan ensures the unit does not get too warm, but it's also essential to turn the generator off when not in use.
Triple recharging via solar panels, wall outlets, or carports is another excellent feature. The fast charge button allows you to maximize the recharge process.
The portable design and lightweight build make this unit perfect for traveling and outdoor events. It can also be used as an emergency backup supply and has SOS light modes.
Limitations & Issues
With this unit you get insufficient display information. Also, the user manual could have been better.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage: | 110V |
Item Dimensions: | 15.31 x 8.98 x 6.61 inches |
Wattage: | 500W |
Number Of Ports: | 7 |
Warranty: | 30-day money-back guarantee |
Watt-Hour: | 296Wh |
Item Weight: | 9.22 pounds |
Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
9. Foldable Solar Panels: ALLPOWERS Mini Portable Power Station
The ALLPOWERS Mini Portable Power Station should be your go-to pick if you want a solar generator and solar panel combo. This is the only unit on our list that comes with a foldable solar panel that can be stored away when not in use.
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
The ALLPOWERS Mini is an efficient unit with a foldable solar panel. The adjustable brackets and folding features increase portability and aid the absorption of sunlight. The unit comes with all accessories, an instruction manual, and 18 months of warranty.
The unit can be recharged to 80% in 5 hours using regular ports and to 8 hours using the solar panels. This unit also offers a Bluetooth connection and wireless charging features. You can use the app on your phone to control your unit remotely.
Limitations & Issues
The drawbacks include this unit having a somewhat noisy fan, poor instructions in the user manual, and not having the most reliable Bluetooth connectivity.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage: | 110V |
Item Dimensions: | 10.4 x 5.5 x 7 inches |
Wattage: | 500W |
Number Of Ports: | 9 |
Warranty: | 60 months |
Watt-Hour: | 606Wh |
Item Weight: | 5.3kg |
Battery: | Lithium-ion Battery |
10. Durability: EF ECOFLOW River Portable Power Station
Pros
Cons
Our Review
Best Features
The 370Wh battery provides sufficient power after its recharged. The unit can be recharged to 90% power in 3 hours through regular ports. You can also connect a solar panel to fuel up this generator.
The River 370 can also be recharged via carports and has 9 output ports that allow you to connect nine different gadgets simultaneously.
The LCD screen displays battery labels, wattage, and leftover charge time. The unit comes with all accessories, including a wall charger, car charger, USB-C cable, product manual, and an 18-month warranty.
Limitations
Some users have shared that this unit can be a bit noisy. Also, a few mentioned how they found one or two ports to not function properly.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Voltage: | 110V |
Item Dimensions: | 9.8 x 6.3 x 7.8 inches |
Wattage: | 500W |
Number Of Ports: | 9 |
Warranty: | 18 months |
Watt-Hour: | 370Wh |
Item Weight: | 11.3lbs |
Battery: | Lithium-polymer Battery |
500 Watt Solar Generator Buying Guide
This buying guide will help you understand what makes the best 500 watt solar generator so you can make an informed buying decision. Let's take a look!
What Is A 500 Watt Solar Generator?
Solar generators are used as a backup power supply both indoors and outdoors. 500 watt solar generators are portable, compact, and can usually be charged via electrical ports, carports, and solar panels. Most units do not come with solar panels, and these will have to be purchased separately.
A 500-watt solar generator can easily power:
The unit cannot power heavy-duty appliances such as dryers, ovens, coffeemakers, heaters, etc. The total power needed must be below 500 and 600 watts for a 500-watt portable generator to function. A 500-watt generator usually has an efficiency between 15 percent and 21 percent.
Features to Consider
Portability
A solar generator's portability is essential if you intend to use your unit outdoors, take it on trips or use it while traveling. The unit should have a portable design, robust build, and lightweight structure and must be under 20 to 30 lbs.
Battery Capacity And Type
The capacity of your battery will determine how long it can run and how many appliances it can power. If you only need to recharge laptops and mobile phones, 300Wh should be enough. Otherwise, you should opt for a higher watt-hour rating.
Also, pick generators with Lithium-ion or Lithium-polymer batteries as these are long-lasting.
Inverter
The Inverter rating decides the amount of power a generator can offer. Opt for a higher wattage rating for your generator than the one listed on the appliance you wish to power.
Indoor Use And Quiet Operation
Noiseless operation, eco-friendly function, and BMS allow you to use solar generators indoors and outdoors. They do not pose safety risks and will not cause any harm, unlike gas or fuel generators.
Solar Panels
Solar panels can put an extra burden on your pocket. Look for a generator that comes with solar panels if you are worried about affordability or outdoor use.
MPPT Charge Controller And Ports
The number of output ports and their types should be a concern if you wish to power various appliances using your solar generator.
Also, opt for one that has a built-in MPPT charge controller to prevent power loss and help the battery cope in low sunlight. However, this feature may raise the price of your purchase.
Easy Setup
You wil notl have to purchase fuel, and will not have to go through lengthy procedures to set up your generator. Most come with user manuals and are very easy to use.
You need to connect your panels, ports, and battery to start using. The handles and lightweight design make these generators easy to carry around.
500 Watt Solar Generator Installation
A portable generator that is not being run using solar panels can simply be recharged and connected to preferred appliances for electricity. You can easily connect these units via multiple ports, and they usually come with all necessary cables and adapters.
If you have a built-in MPPT controller, then that is great. If not, you should buy this separately to protect your generator's battery.
If you wish to use solar panels, you must ensure that you unfold the panel and use brackets to catch maximum sunlight. Portable generators do not require complex installation steps. Just ensure you connect all wiring correctly and read the instruction manual for your unit.
Maintenance & Operating Costs
Solar power generators will incur zero operation and maintenance costs if run using solar panels.
You will have to pay for the amount of electricity your unit pulls in to recharge via car and wall outlets. If you take good care of your unit, it should last for several years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a 500-watt generator run?
A 500 watt generator can run for approximately 17 hours using a 12V battery.
What can a 500 watt solar system run?
A 500 watt generator can run a small TV, mini-fridge, lights, laptops, phones, fans, drones, cameras, and even tablets.
Do solar generators work on cloudy days?
Yes, your solar generator will work on a cloudy day if your battery is charged.
What size solar controller do I need for 500W solar panel?
You will need a 30-ampere charge controller for a 500W solar panel.
Are solar generators worth buying?
Yes, solar generators are worth buying. They offer clean energy, are low maintenance, and can provide adequate backup power.
Final Verdict: What Is The Best 500 Watt Solar Generator For Backup Power?
We have finally reached the end of this guide. Our top pick for the best 500 watt solar generator is the Jackery Portable Power Station. And, rightly so. This unit has a great battery capacity, 7 output ports, fast recharging, a portable design, and a durable build.
This unit will help provide efficient backup power and will be your aid in emergencies. It can recharge your phone up to 24 times on a single charge!
However, if you want a unit with the fastest recharging time, then ROCKPALS Portable Power Station is your answer. The unit can be recharged in under 3 hours using a suitable port combination. Lastly, if you wish to purchase a solar panel and generator combo, the ALLPOWERS Mini Portable Power Station should be your go-to pick.
Good luck!
