Best portable power stations of 2023

14 Feb.,2023

 

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Achieving energy independence by not having to rely on big utility grids is something that we strive for in times of uncertainty, especially in rural areas and places frequently hit by brown outs. Controlling these predicaments is now possible thanks to advancements in battery technologies while semiconductors used to harness the high power source have been improving continuously. 

The best portable power stations reduce the need for fuel-powered generators and have made huge strides since the first prototypes came out about a decade ago. The improvements have been fueled (pun intended) by the equally meteoric rise of electric vehicles.

The recipe for a good power station is straightforward: a big battery capacity coupled with a high-power inverter forms the core. Add to this a few USB ports in all formats, a car adapter and finally, ways to charge the batteries with an eye on being fast. Everything of course has to be enclosed in a hard shell and the unit is good to go anywhere when the lights go out.

This decade has seen a boom in portable power stations. The fierce competition has brought prices down with a feature list that keeps on growing. After having tested more than 20 units - with capacities up to 4Kwh) over the past two years, we present the best quality power station that money can buy right now.

  • We've also featured the best power banks

The best portable power stations of 2023 in full:

Why you can trust TechRadar Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

(Image credit: Future)

The Delta Pro is surely the fan-favorite with a very successful Kickstarter campaign. Having one of the lowest dollars per watt-hour, unmatched charging time, WiFi capability, and a whole slew of accessories, owning one is a real treat. To be fair, the Delta Pro is in a league of its own since it was designed to be expandable with up to 20kWh of battery capacity. As they say in the campaign, one can reach power independence if solar panels are used to generate that energy. 

However, it is the biggest and weighs almost 50kg. It is not a power station to be carried around easily like other units such as the Jackery. The blasting fast charging time means high input current and this might surprise some home electrical breakers. A limited amount of USB ports also makes it less attractive to casual users that are craving to charge multiple smartphones (opens in new tab) and portable devices at the same time.

Read the full EcoFlow Delta Pro review (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future)

2. Bluetti AC200P

Best for loads of devices

Our expert review:

Specifications

Capacity:

2000Wh / 2000W

Charge cycles:

3000 cycles to 80% capacity

Charge time:

Full charge in 2.5h

Weight and volume:

27.5kg, 45L, 88% Inverter Efficiency

Ports:

11 DC, 6 AC sockets

Cost to run:

0.9$/Wh

Check Amazon

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VISIT SITE

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Reasons to buy

+

Versatile

+

long battery life

+

UPS mode

Reasons to avoid

-

Big AC adapter

-

No WiFi

The Bluetti AC200P has often been touted as one of the first modern power stations thanks to its LCD color interface that also supports touch. It has all qualities of a good unit with plenty of output sockets, fast charging time, and of course plenty of power for inverter and battery capacity. It is also the only one that comes with a wireless QC for mobile phones. The number of charge cycles is on the high-end with over 3,500 thanks to being LiFePo4 based. 

It is also one of the cheapest in terms of dollars per watt-hour. It isn’t perfect as it is quite bulky and has an AC power adapter that could be mistaken for another smaller power station. Setting the bar high in terms of features, the AC200P lacks a Wi-Fi connection that would have opened up so many possibilities.

Read the full Bluetti AC200P review (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future)

3. Jackery Explorer 1500

Best for after sales support

Our expert review:

Specifications

Capacity:

1534Wh / 1800W

Charge cycles:

500 cycles to 80% capacity

Charge time:

Full charge in 4h

Weight and volume:

15.5kg, 30L, 85% Inverter Efficiency

Ports:

4 DC, 3 AC sockets

Cost to run:

1.04$/Wh

View at Lowe's

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Check Amazon

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Reasons to buy

+

Excellent customer support

+

Quality product

Reasons to avoid

-

Low number of charge cycles

-

No Wi-Fi

The Jackery brand is often associated with high-quality power stations. The Explorer 1500 is no exception and is an extension of their product line. The most important upgrade is faster charging times and of course a bigger battery and inverter. The dollar per watt-hour remains unchanged from the smaller Explorer models. It is still the best-seller in portable power stations on Amazon and that is because of its great customer support. 

The Explorer 1500 is based on the normal Lithium-Ion battery and as such, it will start to degrade after 500 charge cycles. The fan can be a bit loud while the limited number of DC sockets, only three USB in this case, will certainly not satisfy everyone in case of an emergency. 

Read the full Jackery Explorer 1500 review (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future)

4. Oukitel P2001

Best for simplicity

Our expert review:

Specifications

Capacity:

2000Wh

Charge cycles:

3500 cycles

Charge time:

Full charge in 2h

Weight and volume:

22kg, 36l

Ports:

4 DC, 6 AC sockets, 4 USB-A, 2 USB Type-C

Cost to run:

0.85$/Wh

View at Amazon

(opens in new tab)

Reasons to buy

+

LiFePo4 battery chemistry

+

UPS mode

+

Fast Charging

+

Simple to use

+

Good price

Reasons to avoid

-

Loud fan

-

Entire unit can be noisy

The Oukitel P2001 power station has been designed with simplicity in mind. A blue LCD communicates data to the user very quickly. Being based on the LiFePo4 battery chemistry, it is surprisingly compact and light. The built-in 2000W AC inverter power and 2000Whr battery capacity can power most house appliances without any trouble. Oukitel has done a great job at creating, on its first try, a product that will resonate with many consumers wanting something easy to use.

The only few drawbacks that it has is the always-on display and the fan that can be loud sometimes. With an MSRP of $1700, it is affordable since similar products are more than 0.9$/W. The newer battery technology will prevent the P2001 from quickly failing, remaining at the top of its game for many years to come.

Read the full Oukitel P2001 review (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future)

5. Bluetti AC200MAX

An upgrade that allows you to increase battery capacity

Our expert review:

View at Amazon

(opens in new tab)

Reasons to buy

+

LiFePo4

+

NEMA TT-30 Socket

+

90% inverter efficiency

+

Bluetooth

+

Battery expansion

Reasons to avoid

-

Noisy

-

Bulky AC adapter

Bluetti took an already great power station namely the AC200P and made it even better. The AC200MAX includes new features such as a Bluetooth connection, a NEMA TT-30 socket for RV enthusiasts, and last but not least, the ability to expand the battery capacity with up to two extra batteries. With these new features, we have a system that’s able to act as an emergency power source for a small home whenever there is a blackout.

The AC200MAX can be improved further by having either a smaller power adapter or having it integrated into the base unit. The unit is noisy which makes its use as an uninterruptible power source in an office painful. It is also heavy but that is explained by the use of LiFePo4 batteries.

Read our full Bluetti AC200MAX review (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future)

6. Anker 757 Power Station

A reliable office companion that brings a lot to the table

VISIT SITE

(opens in new tab)

Reasons to buy

+

Plenty of output sockets

+

UPS mode

+

Built-in fast charger

+

LFP battery

Reasons to avoid

-

Price higher than average

With the Anker 757 power station, getting protection against power cuts in the office has never been easier. A 1500W AC inverter with six electrical outlets power printers and computers without hiccups, while the built-in UPS mode guarantees a switch from the grid to the battery in less than 20ms. The 757 is also built to last with its LFP battery pack that provides up to 3000 charge cycles.

The Anker 757 is quiet in the UPS mode but can be noisy when working at full capacity, while an abundance of low-voltage connectors can charge all personal devices that one may have. The station is heavier and more expensive than similar units due to the LFP battery, while the rated 1500W AC output is, in fact, the maximum power, after which the over-power protection kicks in.

Read our full Anker 757 review (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future)

7. BigBlue Cellpowa 500

Best for portability

Our expert review:

Specifications

Capacity:

500Wh

Charge cycles:

2000 cycles

Charge time:

Full charge 3hrs

Weight and volume:

7.7kg, 12.7l

Ports:

2 DC, 2 AC sockets, 2 USB-A, 2 USB Type-C

Cost to run:

0.5$/Wh

VISIT SITE

(opens in new tab)

Reasons to buy

+

Big clear display

+

LiFePo4 battery chemistry

Reasons to avoid

-

Heavy

-

Can be noisy

The Cellpowa 500 is a handy power station that will blend smoothly in any office setting. Its seven low-voltage outputs are more than enough to power small devices found on the desk while the 500W AC inverter can comfortably accommodate a medium-sized desktop PC in the event of a power outage. Its biggest plus is that it is based on a LiFePo4 battery chemistry thus providing over 2000 charge cycles before experiencing a drop in performance.

The CP500 has a few drawbacks with its heavy weight and loud fan. Charging the station, while potentially fast, requires three energy sources to be connected at the same time in order to have a decent charging time.

Read the full BigBlue Cellpowa 500 review (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future)

8. Zendure SuperBase Pro 2000

Best value for money

Our expert review:

Specifications

Capacity:

2100Wh / 2000W

Charge cycles:

1500 cycles to 80% capacity

Charge time:

Full charge in 2h

Weight and volume:

21kg, 43L, 93% Inverter Efficiency

Ports:

8 DC, 6 AC sockets

Cost to run:

0.83$/Wh (Indiegogo price)

View at Amazon

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View at GeekBuying

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View at Adorama

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Reasons to buy

+

Wi-Fi, 4G

+

UPS mode

Reasons to avoid

-

Smart app can be better

-

Sleep current can be better

Zendure is trying to make a name in the power generator scene and has a good chance of achieving this thanks to its latest unit. The SuperBase Pro 2000 has all the key elements of a modern power station. A high-capacity battery, a flexible inverter that can exceed its nominal 2kW power without being damaged, Wi-Fi/4G (opens in new tab) connectivity, and plenty of USB outlets. 

Another two key ingredients are a very fast charging time and a super competitive price. A bonus is that the SuperBase can be used as a UPS (opens in new tab), charging the battery only when needed while being connected to the grid. What is lacking is a stable mobile app and no USB-A sockets which are what older phones still use. The non-negligible sleep current which drains the battery even while turned off is also concerning but Zendure has promised to remedy this with a firmware upgrade.

Read the full Zendure SuperBase Pro 2000 review (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future)

9. EcoFlow Smart Generator

High-tech with safety features

Our expert review:

VISIT SITE

(opens in new tab)

Reasons to buy

+

Wi-Fi accessible

+

Carbon monoxide detector

+

Remote start

+

DC output for other EcoFlow products

Reasons to avoid

-

Noisy

-

Expensive

EcoFlow has revisited the classic generator, giving it a few tricks along the way. Its latest product, the EcoFlow Smart Generator, is a highly sophisticated gas-powered generator that works closely with other EcoFlow products such as the Delta Pro battery station. It is an attempt to solve the problem of power outages lasting longer than a few hours which is the bane of battery-based power solutions.

Engine oil change and carbon monoxide warning are shown on two LEDs located on the front panel. Two push buttons control the pairing of a smartphone with the generator and enable the 1800W AC output socket. The EcoFlow mobile app available for both iOS and Android can be used to control the generator through Wi-Fi. The setup is very easy with the pairing initiated by holding the IOT reset button for a few seconds. 

Accessories needed for the periodic maintenance of the generator are provided, including an oil funnel, a screwdriver, and a spark plug socket. The user manual and warranty card are also supplied while an extra battery cable enables using the generator with other EcoFlow devices right away.

The Smart Generator is great if you already have other EcoFlow products. It complements superbly the Delta Pro, for example, extending its functionality by providing a secondary power source.

Read our full EcoFlow Smart Generator review (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Jackery)

10. Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro

Quench your thirst for energy in a sustainable way

Our expert review:

VISIT SITE

(opens in new tab)

Reasons to buy

+

Light and compact

+

Fast charge 

+

UPS mode 

Reasons to avoid

-

Expensive 

The Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro is a great upgrade from their previous Explorer 1500 with features that will make your life easier. The built-in power adapter and handle make moving it around a breeze. The number of charge cycles has also been doubled while a charge time of two hours is right where the competition is. The built-in UPS mode means that the Explorer 2000 can be used as an office accessory.

The unit is sold either standalone or bundled with solar panels. It is a great emergency power source that can replace the power grid for a couple of hours on batteries or as long as there is sunshine, with solar panels. The only drawback is the extra cost compared to similar units but thanks to exceptional technical support, it is worth the extra money.

Read our full Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro review (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future)

11. Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro

Jackery’s new 1kW station is as good as it gets

Our expert review:

Reasons to buy

+

Upgrade battery life

+

Integrated AC charger

+

UPS mode

+

Power saving

Reasons to avoid

-

Efficiency at 85%

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro improves over the previous 1kW power station from Jackery by supporting more charge cycles, having an integrated AC power block, a built-in UPS mode, and faster charging time. Activation of the three output sections is done through push buttons. The 1kW AC output distributed along three sockets allows maximum surges of 2kW. Five low-voltage sockets, including a 100W Type-C, and a 12V port, are available on the front panel.

There are very few drawbacks to the Solar Generator 1000 Pro. The efficiency is the same as previous generations, and the non-standard power socket for the solar inputs requires an adapter for non-Jackery solar panels. With a price tag of $1100, the new 1kW performer from Jackery comes with three years of warranty which can be extended to five when registering online.

Read our full Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro review (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future)

12. Joyzis BR300

Best compact power station

Our expert review:

Specifications

Capacity:

296Wh / 1000W

Charge cycles:

500 cycles

Charge time:

Full charge in 6h

Weight and volume:

1.95kg, 4.5l

Ports:

1 DC, 1 AC, 3 USB Type A, 1 USB Type-C

Cost to run:

0.3$/Wh

Check Amazon

(opens in new tab)

VISIT SITE

(opens in new tab)

Reasons to buy

+

Simple interface

+

Wireless charging

Reasons to avoid

-

Older battery technology

-

No support for MTTP

They say good things come in small packages and the Joyzis BR300 is one good example of that. This sub $300 power station features DC outputs usually found in pricey versions, such as one for wireless charging. And with its 300Wh battery and 300W AC inverter, it will be useful as an emergency power source for small appliances. Its included 60W Type-C socket can charge a slew of modern gadgets while three Type-A sockets provide plenty of options for everyone in the family. The ability to provide DC power while being charged is also something that we find very useful.

It has its own flaws since you basically get what you pay for. Being less than $300, you get an older battery technology that gives on average 500 charge cycles. The plastic enclosure is cheap and suffers from the stuck button syndrome while the user interface design will win many fans for being very simple to use.

Read the full Joyzis BR300 review (opens in new tab).

(Image credit: Future)

13. Pecron E2000LFP

When expandability meets affordability in one station

Our expert review:

Reasons to buy

+

Low cost

+

LFP battery

+

Expandable

+

Good DC input range for solar

Reasons to avoid

-

2000W max, including surge for AC inverter

-

No power saving

-

External power supply

The Pecron E2000LFP is one of the cheapest power stations based on the LFP battery technology, offering over 2000 charge cycles. For less than $1400, the buyer gets a 2kW AC inverter with a 2kWh battery which is perfect for powering home appliances and medium-sized power tools. The unit's versatility is on display with six AC output sockets and nine DC sockets, including six USB ports. 

The E2000LFP has a few flaws, on the other hand. The always-on display and no power-saving functionality means that if left turned on, the battery will slowly drain. The maximum AC power, excluding surge, is limited to 2000W. This is acceptable for home appliances with motors. Buy the E2000LFP if the wide solar input voltage is needed and for the LFP battery at a great price.

Read our full Pecron E2000LFP review (opens in new tab). 

We've also listed the best portable laptop battery chargers (opens in new tab).

UPS vs Power stations: What's the difference?

 

Many power stations claim to support a UPS mode, but can they really work as a reliable computer power backup system? Computer power supplies usually tolerate small AC dips. The ATX standard sets the minimum time for intermittent events to 16ms. The fact that most power stations can switch from main to battery source within 20ms means they are not suitable for replacing a real UPS, at least on paper. In practice, 16ms is under worst-case conditions, and most power stations will do the switchover quickly enough to prevent a computer from turning off. In conclusion, use it at your own risk, but it should work.

Which portable power station is best for you?

When deciding which portable power station to use, first consider what your main priorities actually are. For example, do you need one for just the office, will it be kept just outside of a main building, or will it be needed on the go far from other alternative power sources? Consider whether weight be an issue for carrying, and also that the battery will last long enough for the use you need it for. Look at the various pointers we raise in the reviews above and see if any particular model stands out as particularly suitable to you needs.

How we tested the best portable power stations

When testing the best best portable power stations factors such as volume, weight, battery chemistry, and novelty have been considered in this guide to be more objective. Testing includes running the mobile app for stations equipped with Wi-Fi and upgrading the firmware when required. On top of the charge and discharge cycles, we went beyond the maximum power allowed on each generator and observed successful recovery from the over-power protection.

Read more on how we test, rate, and review products on TechRadar (opens in new tab).

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