Summary
With its built-in 2000W AC inverter (3500 W peak) and 5 output port options, the Yeti 3000x is designed to keep the power on in heavy-duty applications.
It can be used to power equipment at a remote worksite, keep your refrigerator running, keep your electric bike charged, power your campsite or RV, or as an essential standby power supply for your home.
The high-powered generator comes from the well-known manufacturer Goal Zero, designed to provide renewable solar energy for various purposes.
The 3000x is compact, measuring 25 x 19 x 23 inches in dimensions. It is a bit heavy at nearly 78 pounds, but Goal Zero provides a two-wheeled roll cart to make it easy to move around.
The Yeti 3000x features a powerful, high-capacity battery and inverter system that are major contributing factors to its size and weight.
Goal Zero provides a wide range of output options to keep your devices up and running. There are two 120 volts AC outlets, two USB-A ports, one USB-C port, 12 volt DC output port, two 6mm ports, and a 12 volt High Power Port.
The Goal Zero 300x provides a few different charging options to replenish its power.
The most obvious, of course, is solar charging. The unit comes as a standalone generator that you can pair with compatible solar panels or as a complete kit that includes three of the compatible Goal Zero Nomad 200 Solar Panels.
For AC charging, the 3000x comes with a cable that you can use to plug it into a regular wall socket. You will need to purchase the compatible carport cable separately for DC charging.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Best Features
The Goal Zero Yeti 3000x is one of the safest and most feature-packed solar generators sold today.
Mobile Power For Your Crew
The high capacity of 3000x makes it an extremely suitable unit for worksite usage. It can power a hoard of machines and devices you need to use around the site. However, the most prominent use of this solar generator is that it provides a reliable source of power for keeping your entire crew's devices charged.
It features one USB-C and two USB-A ports to connect most smartphones with. You can also use the AC outlets to charge laptops, DSLR cameras, and tablets. Lastly, a 12 volt DC port can recharge or power appliances that run on DC.
Built-In 2000W Inverter
Another noticeable feature of Goal Zero Yeti 3000x is its built-in inverter. The device is one of the largest, with a massive 2000 watts of pure sine wave AC output.
It is not simply great for powering necessities like a fridge, blow dryer, TV, fruit dehydrator, washing machines, etc.
It is also strong enough to handle heavy-duty equipment like drill machines and other power tools.
Plus, the integrated pure sine wave Inverter has a built-in surge protector, enabling it to power devices rated up to 1500 watts while withstanding surges up to 3000 watts.
This helpful safety feature ensures the 3000x can safely power devices like refrigerators, small pumps, and power tools.
Wide Range of Power Outputs
As we mentioned above, this massive capacity solar generator from Goal Zero supports a wide range of output ports.
Other than the two USB-A and the USB-C outlets, the device also features two 120 volts pure sine wave AC supply outlets.
Some buyers might argue that only two AC outlets are quite limiting, seeing this generator’s massive capacity. However, the variety of output ports is still a good thing.
Now, keeping its high output capacity in mind, if you think that only two outlets are a bit limiting because you can't plug in too many things at once, this is where the other ports come in.
Suppose you use the unit efficiently by assigning all the right tasks to all the ports and using rechargeable wireless devices instead of regular wired appliances.
In that case, you'll be surprised at how much the Yeti 3000x can provide with its wide range of power outputs.
These power outlets make this generator suitable for recharging your devices multiple times.
Lithium-ion batteries
An outstanding feature of Goal Zero Yeti 3000x is the powerful, high-capacity lithium-ion battery pack incorporated into its base.
The lithium-ion battery pack boasts a large 2982 Wh capacity and is the main contributor to the weight of the power station.
The battery pack is rated at 12 volts which is not uncommon in the solar generator world.
For converting 12 volts of power into 120 volts, the device has to increase voltage 10 times, increasing the stress, so you have to be careful about keeping the unit cool.
On the other hand, having a high-capacity battery ensures that all your devices have a reliable power source, even if you have to go powerless at a remote work site or camping trip.
The Yeti 3000x provides you with a dependable and stable source of power.
The battery pack provides up to 2982 watt-hours of power, serving as an endless power source for low-power devices like mobile phones, laptops, fans, lights, etc.
The 3000x can also supply up to 2000 watts of continuous power to run power tools, medical machines, and large refrigerators for a few hours.
For example, it can recharge smartphones as many as 253 times, tablets 101 times, laptops 61 times, and DSLR cameras 169 times.
For small appliances, the 300x will keep Goal Zero lights on for up to 674 hours, a regular light bulb for 276 hours, portable CPAP devices for 47 hours, and a TV for 30 hours.
Not every solar generator can power a refrigerator. You need a high-capacity device with enough output to overcome the refrigerator's surge wattage.
With a 3500 Watt surge capacity, the Goal Zero Yeti 3000x can power your refrigerator for up to 55 hours on a full charge.
Water-resistant
Another nice feature of Goal Zero Yeti 3000x is its water & weather resistance.
The unit can easily sustain sunlight and temperatures up to 40 degrees Celsius and its waterproof enclosure protects the battery from medium to small rains and splashes.
This is a massive upgrade from other smaller Goal Zero Yeti models that are not waterproof.
It mainly comes into play when charging it using solar energy, and one has to set the unit out to absorb what remains of the sun's energy.
The Yeti 3000x is one of Goal Zero's most powerful and popular portable power stations.
It combines high output capacity with tons of valuable features that make it an ideal choice under most circumstances.
However, there are a few issues and limitations you should bear in mind:
High Price
The biggest shortcoming of the Goal Zero Yeti 3000x is its higher price tag. Unlike some comparable solar power stations, this unit has a significantly higher upfront cost. Not to forget the additional costs of purchasing the compatible Goal Zero solar panels.
Heavy
Unlike some of the smaller Yeti models, the 3000x is bigger and heavier. At 78 pounds, it is one of the heaviest solar power generators in its power range.
Had to move on uneven surfaces
Although the unit does not exceed a foot and a half in any dimension, Goal Zero realizes that it's Yeti 3000x is a bit difficult to carry around.
That's why they have provided a wheeled roll cart to make it easier for buyers to lug it around. However, even the simple act of rolling can become a challenging task as soon as you step off the smooth surface and onto grass, rough terrain, or any other uneven surface.
Long recharge time
Recharge time is the biggest shortcoming of any high-capacity solar-power system.
The Yeti 3000x needs higher-wattage solar panels for adequate charging. When you pair it with the Nomad 200 solar panels, you will need at least three to supply the required 600 watts of power.
Even then, it will take about 6 hours of peak sunlight to recharge completely. Use panels with smaller wattage, and the recharge time will increase. Similarly, if the weather conditions are unfavorable, it will take more time.
Alternatively, if you use an AC supply for charging it will take about 14 hours.
Recharging using a 12V car port takes about 28 hours.
Recommended Solar Panels
Although we like the Goal Zero 3000x kit complete with the Nomad 200 solar panels, your choices are not limited to this.
Here are some other Goal Zero recommended solar panel options:
Nomad 100 (portable use)
If you plan to use your Goal Zero Yeti 3000x as a portable source of power, you should pair it with a solar panel set that is equally portable.
The Goal Zero Nomad 100 is a mobile model with 100 watts of four monocrystalline solar panels incorporated into a folding design.
It is a lightweight set for use on remote worksites, die-hard adventures, mobile basecamps, and off-grid living.
It comes complete with the 8mm Goal Zero connector for plug and play adaptability to your Goal Zero Yeti 3000x. You will need to purchase 6 of these to achieve the correct wattage.
The solar panels are completely waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about them during the rainy season.
Plus, the foldable design makes it possible to fold it down into a compact, portable that you can zip inside the provided carry case.
Nomad 200 (portable)
The Nomad 200 is a more powerful variation of the Nomad 100 we discussed above. It boasts similar features like foldable design, weatherproofing, chainable functionality, and included cable. Though, at 200 watts, this Nomad variation produces double the wattage of Nomad 100.
Boulder 200 (fixed installations)
If you are more interested in a fixed solar panel installation, the Boulder 200 solar panels have got you covered. It is a durable, lightweight, and weather-resistant solar panel set. The two 200 watts monocrystalline panels can fold for portability. It comes complete with a built-in stand and cable for connectivity.
Home Integration Kit
This home integration kit comes as an emergency backup solution that you can use for connecting your Yeti 3000x directly to your home’s electrical panel. It allows you to connect up to four separate power stations allowing you to switch them on, all at once.
MPPT Charge Controller
The Goal Zero MPPT charge controller is designed to improve the charging efficiency of the different Yeti devices.
Although the 3000x comes with a built-in MPPT charge controller that improves its charge efficiency by 40%, if it malfunctions and you need to replace the module, it is also readily available.
Recommended 3000x Solar Kits
If you are interested in purchasing the 3000x as a kit, we have also covered some suitable options in this Goal Zero Yeti 3000x review. Check them out below:
Off-Grid Power Solution: Yeti 3000x Power Station + (3) Nomad 200s
This is the ultimate alternative power source if you want to go off-grid for days at a time.
This kit consists of a Goal Zero Yeti 3000x and three Nomad 200 solar panels to achieve proper solar charging wattage.
You can set the panels up in an area that receives maximum sunlight, and they will power your Yeti the entire day. Thanks to the pass-through support, you can continue to use the electricity even while it is charging.
Home Integration Kit
If you want to integrate the Yeti 3000x into your home’s electrical supply circuit, this home integration kit will help you do that easily. It is easy to set up, and you can connect up to four units simultaneously.
Switching from the grid to the power station is easy with a single switch.
Nomad 200 Solar Panel
If you are looking for a portable solar charging setup, consider getting the 3000x with a Nomad 200 Solar panel.
The foldable and lightweight panels are easy to set up. Plus, they generate about 200 watts of power that can easily sustain the device over shorter trips.
How Does the Goal Zero 3000x Differ From The Competition?
The Yeti 3000x is one of the best solar power stations from Goal Zero, it has plenty of competition today.
For example, the Bluetti AC200MAX Portable Power Station with a B230 External Battery Module with its 2048 Wh capacity, 2200 watts Pure sine wave inverter, and 4800 surge watts is also a solid option.
The Yeti 3000x has a higher capacity but lower inverter and surge power thant the Bluetti.
In addition, the Bluetti AC200MAX supports expandable battery capacity by connecting up to two battery modules together, but the Goal Zero does not offer this option.
The Bluetti also requires more solar power to recharge in a day (900W), where 3000x only needs 600W.
Recharging Your 3000x
The Yeti 3000x supports multiple charging options, including solar, AC, and DC, as well as car charging. You will need 800W of solar panels to recharge the 3000x power station in one day.
Goal Zero recommends getting one of their solar panels in appropriate wattage for efficient solar charging.
They come complete with the charging cable and are chainable to each other. Since the device needs 800 watts of solar power for optimum charging, you will need three of the recommended Goal Zero Nomad 200 Solar Panels to charge the device quickly.
With the right setting, you will have your solar power station charged in as little as 6 hours with peak sunlight exposure.
Yeti 3000x also supports AC charging, so you can quickly hook it up with a wall outlet using the cable provided. Be mindful, though, that a full charge over AC supply takes about 14 hours.
There is also an option of connecting it with an 800-watt source that can charge it completely in about 6 hours.
You can also get a carport cable that enables you to charge it using your car battery.
However, it is our least favorite way to charge the 3000x because it takes about 28 hours to recharge the generator completely.
Care and Maintenance
The Goal Zero Yeti 3000x review is incomplete without care and maintenance information. Here are some care and maintenance tips for your Yeti 3000x:
How long does the Yeti 3000X last?
It depends on what you are using your Goal Zero Yeti 3000x for.
On a full charge, it can recharge smartphones up to 253 times, laptops 61 times, tablets 101 times, and DSLR cameras 169 times.
Using it to power Goal Zero lights can keep them running for 674 hours. While for regular light bulbs, its battery can last for 276 hours. All these are examples of light usage.
When it comes to high-power aplpiances, the 3000x can support a CPAP machine for 47 hours, TV for 30 hours, pellet grill for 51 hours, and refrigerator for 55 hours.
Warranty
Goal Zero backs its Yeti 3000x solar power station with 2-year warranty coverage.
Specifications | |
|---|---|
Dimensions: | 25 x 19 x 23 inches |
Weight: | 78 pounds |
Battery Capacity: | 2982Wh |
Inverter: | 2000W |
AC outlets: | 2 |
DC outlet: | 1 |
USB-A Port: | 2 |
USB-C Port: | 1 |
USB-C PD Port: | Yes |
AC Charging: | Yes |
DC charging: | Yes |
Pass through charge support: | Yes |
Where to Buy
Before buying, we recommend first learning more about the Goal Zero Yeti 3000x power station by visiting the official website. There are quite a few different add-ons for different situations.
When you are ready to buy, make sure you check the latest prices and kits on Amazon.com. We’ve found some good deals there.
