2023 Reviews : Best Indoor Generators / Home & Apartment Power

In this article we take a look at a wide range of the best Indoor Generators for the money. These are all battery-powered, safe to use indoors, and as quiet as the sound of a library. The Jackery Explorer 500 is an excellent choice in 2023 and a step up from most battery generators. It can run devices up to 500W in total, with a peak of 1000W. My biggest criticism is that it’s slow to charge compared to brands — taking 5.5 hours to charge from 0% to 80%, compared to only one hour for ECOFLOW models, like the River PRO or the new Anker 757 PowerHouse, which is on par with EcoFlow using their HyperFlash technology. More on these models later in the article.

Some examples of what the Jackery 500 Explorer can run:: It can power a CPAP machine for around 9 hours, recharge an iPhone around 53x or power your 500W blender for about 50 minutes. Also, it’s solar ready, engineered with MPPT technology, making solar charging far more efficient.

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Choosing A Quality Brand / Features Matter

Jackery is one of the top indoor generator brands, alongside a few others I recommend, such as: ECOFLOW, Westinghouse, Goal Zero, Bluetti, Energizer, Anker and a couple other reliable brands you’ll discover in this buying guide. Take note, each brand has their own proprietary technology, and as you’ll see, some brands have superior features, like ECOFLOW’s ultra-fast charging — from 0% battery to 80% in one hour. It’s impressive.

Ecoflow River Mini / Best Ultra-Compact Indoor Generator

Excellent Buy : 300W (up to 600W) with X-Boost / WiFi Optional. Ultra-fast charging. Only 6.3 lbs.

The new ECOFLOW River Mini is a great example of how indoor generators are evolving, becoming smaller in size, while providing more output power, with an attractive sense of style. The River Mini reminds me of the clock radio I had as a child, but much nicer. Younger people may not know what that means. I’m 51, and wish I had this River Mini beside my bed in the seventies, but I digress.

You won’t find a faster charging battery power station, going from 0% to 80% in under one hour (wall outlet). This is ultra-fast, especially when comparing to the Jackery Explorer 500, at 5.5 hours. I’m not a mathematician, but this is significant. Recharging speed is one of the most important features to consider.

Overview of Features / EcoFlow River Mini :

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This is becoming a fast growing market as these advanced models provide the best of both worlds — clean “no maintenance” power that you can safely use indoors; not to mention the fact that they’re near-silent.

What a difference a year makes. Currently, I’m updating this article as some models have been discontinued and have been replaced by much better models, with more power and better features, such as MPPT (Maximum power point tracking), which serves to maintain a consistent load under all circumstances. This is just one new feature that many new indoor generators have in 2023 — well, at least the quality models.

If you don’t already know, Indoor generators are also commonly called : Portable Battery Power Stations and they are 100% safe to use indoors. I prefer the name “indoor generators,” as it’s more descriptive and distinguishes what sets them apart from gas generators. Either way, they do provide a much-needed gap in our ever-growing need for portable power, which will never go out of style.

We discuss a wide range of topics about indoor generators that will help you choose the appropriate model for your specific needs, as well as educate you on the various factors and features that are available. We go deep on this topic.

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BLUETTI EP500 / 2000W — Best Home or Apartment Backup Indoor Generator

Run these EP500 models in parallel and double your power. Excellent design.

The Bluetti EP500 is not your ordinary indoor generator, in fact it has more in common with the Tesla Powerwall except it’s on wheels. The design is excellent, with the rounded corners, white and black coloring, the large wheels and the perfectly integrated touch panel makes this power station very easy to use and versatile for your changing power needs.

It has every type of outlet you would ever need including a 30-Amp outlet for your RV. If you own an RV then this is an excellent choice to make your life complete — and you can run two in parallel to double your output. Honestly, the only reason anyone would buy a gas generator is because they can’t afford a battery backup generator. These are superior in every way, except the price. I understand that not everyone can afford one of these and to be honest, you can buy a more powerful inverter generator for one-quarter of the price, but gas generators are loud, they pollute, require maintenance and are bulkier. As we all know, with an economy in decline, we’re all trying to get the most for our money.

I’ll be the first to admit to stay within your budget and I would consider buying a quality inverter generator if you need a lot of power but you still need a generator that outputs a pure sine wave to power your sensitive devices, and, most inverter generators come with 30A outlets, whereas on indoor generators a 30A is still rare. The EcoFlow Delta Pro is another model that includes a built-in 30A outlet.

As usual, only you know what will work for you. And don’t worry, we have cheaper power stations throughout this article.

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— More New Power Stations for 2023

Anker 757 PowerHouse – A New Breed and the Epitome of Innovation

Here’s another example of what happens when a manufacturer designs a power station from a blank sheet. This Anker 757 PowerHouse looks like no other power station on the market and their streamlined design raises the standard by which all other brands will be trying to beat in the years to come. ECOFLOW power stations have been my personal choice for years, but now I will put this specific Anker 757 model on par with the brand. ECOFLOW has a more robust lineup and their innovative Delta Pro, is a standout among all other power stations on the market. In truth, the 757 PowerHouse is targeting a different customer, and it’s impossible to draw a direct comparison between models from other leading brands. It’s up to you to find the right indoor generator to meet your needs. My job is give you some models worth spending your money on.

The future is bright for Anker Power Stations if the 757 is an indication of where their lineup is going.

Disclaimer : The Anker 757 is a sponsored product. We received compensation to include this product in this article. All opinions expressed about the product are my own (Giovanni Sasso). Although we were compensated, this is the first sponsored post to ever appear in Chainsaw Journal and the reason is simple — because we firmly believe in the product. We receive requests from brands on a regular basis to be sponsored on the site — and since 2014 the Anker 757 PowerHouse is the only “Yes” we’ve granted.

Anker has engineered the 757 PowerHouse to meet industrial-grade standards, which means every single component is expected to last around 50,000 hours, whereas most brands are expected to last around 10,000 hours. That’s five times more than the competition! I’ll get into the long list of features in a moment, but one more appetizing fact you should take note of is you also get a industry-leading five year warranty, which is three years longer than most other brands.

Once you get a closer look at this power station you’ll understand why Anker is committed to letting consumers know about their latest creation They spent a lot of money in designing an excellent product, and it shows. Ultimately, you get to decide what power station works best for your needs and your budget. The 757 PowerHouse is not for everyone, but for many people, it will be an excellent option. It all depends on what you’re looking for.

We only recommend products we sincerely believe in. Read our disclaimer policy.

Anker 757 PowerHouse : Ideal for High Power Demands

New for 2022: 1500W Continuous Output / 2400W Surge Power — Ultra-fast recharging: 0% to 80% in under one hour.

The 757 from Anker was engineered for customers who want the most advanced technology all in one powerful power station.

VIDEO — A Closer Look: Anker 757 PowerHouse / Indoor Generator

Before I begin sharing my thoughts, have a look at the feature list for the 757 PowerHouse. There’s a lot here to take in but it gives you a birds-eye-view and you’ll quickly be able to determine if this fits your criteria, or not.

Product Highlights (Anker 757):

OVERVIEW —

If you’re looking for a cheap portable power station the Anker 757 PowerHouse isn’t for you. You’ll find may cheaper models throughout this article, or consider something like the Jackery 500 battery station. On the other hand, if you need a lot of power, and you want the latest and greatest technology then the 757 PowerHouse is an excellent choice. This was engineered to compete with the top brands like Jackery and ECOFLOW, and not only do they compete, but in most cases the Anker 757 is either superior or on par with all leading brands. The engineers have meticulously analyzed the power station market and set about to create a product that incorporated state-of-the-art technology while simultaneously integrating it with Anker’s own proprietary technology. What you see is the result of years of development.

Besides the impressive list of features built-in to the Anker 757, I want to draw attention to the fact that Anker has engineered this indoor generator to meet industrial-grade standards. What does that mean? Well, for starters, every component is rated to last up to 50,000 hours of usage. Compare this to other leading brands that are rated at 10,000 hours — in other words, the 757 PowerHouse is expected to last FIVE TIMES longer than other top brands. And, to prove that Anker believes in this product, you get a FIVE YEAR WARRANTY. Other leading brands like Jackery and ECOFLOW give you only TWO YEARS of a warranty. Anker has exceeded the quality/feature standard of the typical portable power station and has set an incredibly high bar for the price. I predict that other brands will adjust their prices to compete and aim to raise their standards for their future product releases.

Ultimately, time will tell as to how the Anker 757 will stand up but this is precisely why the 5 year warranty is so significant. If you have a problem with your unit, you wil have peace of mind knowing that Anker will take care of it for five years.

It’s possible that Anker has accepted they might lose money with the Anker 757 because they know that in the most important thing is to gain new customers, and win over customers from other leading brands like Jackery, EcoFlow and Bluettti. I don’t have any insider information, but the 757 PowerHouse was designed to make a statement to consumers in the same way that the first iPhone was designed to put every other smartphone brand on alert. The subtext let’s the world know that Anker is serious about their commitment to the power station market, while simultaneously communicating that Anker power stations are as good if not better than other brands. I’ll be the first to admit that I never considered Anker power stations to be as good as other brands because I associated Anker with computer accessories, and not heavy-duty portable power stations. It was only after diving deep into researching the 757 PowerHouse did I become a genuine fan and a believer in the quality and technology behind the Anker 757 PowerHouse. Do your own research and decide for your yourself if it’s the right option for you.

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Introduction — Indoor Generators

Indoor generators have numerous advantages over conventional gas-powered machines. A more logical term for these devices is a Portable Battery Power Station because the generator stores power in a battery, or batteries, and then converts the DC battery power into AC power by means of an inverter. This allows us to use the battery power station indoors, there’s virtually no noise and no toxic exhaust gasses from the engine that we normally associate with conventional generators. This review is all about our choice of the top 5 indoor generators available today.

Best Cheap Battery Generator : iGen300s

Released in 2021 ►150W run / 300W start

Westinghouse has their own quality lineup of portable indoor generators in a range of sizes and price points. I appreciate the diversity of their models from several inexpensive iGen160s to the more robust and powerful 1000W iGen1000s. The designs are fun and inviting but they all are built to the same high standards that we all expect from a brand like Westinghouse. After all, they’ve been in business since 1866 so you better believe they have a firm grasp on how to design and manufacturer durable indoor generators. The brand was around when Nicola Tesla was alive and in fact, George Westinghouse hired Tesla as a consultant back in 1888. There are few companies that have been in business for over 100 years. Westinghouse deserves your attention.

Here are more portable power stations from Westinghouse. Whenever you need backup power, these will be there for you but make sure you purchase the right size to power what you need. All of these are suitable for your CPAP machine, and so much more.

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My Professional Expertise with Backup Generators

For many years, I was is in the business of supplying generators for backup power. These ranged from small units for basic home use and camping, all the way up to large-scale industrial and commercial backup power. This included both indoor generators and gas-powered generators. As for indoor generators (portable battery power stations), there is more than one way of keeping the batteries charged: grid power (using a 110V outlet), solar panels (using the sun to charge the batteries), or a hybrid system that can use conventional AC power as well as solar. Some even allow for charging the batteries using your car, which can be great for camping and tailgating, or outdoor parties.

Based on my years of industry experience in the field, I want to share my personal account and explain why I feel indoor generators are the best way to go. I found that, when presented with the facts, most people agree with me on this. When I was in this business, I supplied way more indoor generators than gas-powered models, even though most people initially felt that gas-powered generators were the only viable option.

Because this review is about small indoor generators, used for home and camping, the example of what I did in my own home is a perfect way explain to you why these devices are so fantastic. I have a relatively small battery power station, it provides 750W continuous running power, with a peak (surge) output of 1,200W, and is connected to 2 X 105AH deep cycle batteries. This supplies uninterrupted, pure sine wave power to all my electronic equipment and household lighting.

Best Indoor Generator with Fast Charging ► ECOFLOW River PRO

— Read our full review of the River Pro.

This point has to be emphasized: Pure Sine Wave means that the power is completely safe for electronic devices. I did a lot of research into inverter power, back in the day. I’ve concluded that keeping your computers, TVs, and similar electronic equipment permanently plugged into an inverter power supply offers the best protection. The grid power fluctuates and occasionally surges to dangerous levels. Using a local power supply from an inverter, with computerized power management, means that your electronic equipment will never be harmed by “dirty” current from the grid power supply.

The second thing that has to be pointed out is the benefit of an Uninterrupted Power Supply (ups). When I installed my indoor generator, I made this a semi-permanent installation. The portable battery power station remains plugged into a socket 24/7/365. Leading from the outlets on the indoor generator, I installed wiring to two plug sockets. One supplies my computer, router, and other office equipment, as well as chargers for cell phones and other portable devices. I installed a second socket for my TV, satellite receiver, and surround sound system.

Occasionally, I’ve used a small (400W) space heater when it’s been particularly cold. Though, the heater tends to consume quite a bit of battery power. I also connected my light circuits in the home to the indoor generator. This means that, when the power fails unexpectedly, my lights, computers, TV, etc. don’t shut down. They keep functioning as if the grid power was still working. There’s no need to go outside and switch the generator on, then wait for everything to reboot.

VIDEO | A Closer Look at : EcoFlow Delta PRO

Named by TIME Magazine as one of the best inventions of 2021. The first sustainable eco-friendly battery generator, able to scale from 3600W up to 25,000W. The complete home backup system. Or simply own one unit for the best indoor generator on the market, if you can afford it. Yes, it’s fairly expensive compared to all other power stations, but watch this video and see how innovative & flexible this design is. Learn more in our full review.

These are the primary reasons why an indoor generator is probably the best solution for a home backup power supply. There are other advantages and a few disadvantages too. Portable indoor generators, with built-in batteries, and the option for solar panels to charge the batteries, can be great for camping, tailgating, and RVs.

After reviewing the top 5 indoor generators, I’ll provide a more detailed guide to buying and using indoor generators. I’ll point out the pros and cons of indoor generators vs gas-powered generators, as well as a whole lot of technical information on inverters, batteries, and solar panels. I think there’s a lot of valuable information to be gained from this article and I can certainly shed some light on the topic.

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Top Indoor Generators — Reviews

Of the top 5 indoor generators that we’ve selected for this review, some are more suited for portability, making them great for camping, RV use, even jobsites. The larger models can provide more power but are less portable. These indoor generators can be fantastic for home backup power, especially if permanently (or semi-permanently) installed. It’s possible to connect several power outlets and lights to an indoor generator, then still be able to unplug it and use the generator for other purposes.

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Features : YETI 3000X

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Facts: Indoor & Apartment Generators / Power Stations

Although marketed as generators, these are not, strictly speaking, generators at all. A portable battery power station does not generate electricity, it stores power in a battery and then supplies electricity from the battery. A generator uses mechanical power to generate electricity, a battery power station (or indoor generator) stores kinetic energy and converts this into AC electricity using an inverter. Understanding an indoor generator is all about understanding inverters.

What is an Inverter?

An inverter converts Direct Current (DC power), usually stored in a battery, into Alternating Current (AC power). There are two methods used to achieve the power conversion. The simplest, and oldest method is a switch mode inverter using Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Electric Transistors (MOSFET). Engineers sure like to use long and difficult terms to describe stuff. The second more modern method is also a term that most can’t get the hang of: Internal Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBT) are more modern, computer-controlled inverters. These are much more efficient and produce a pure sine wave.

Switch Mode Inverters

These inverters have been around the longest and use very basic technology. The simplest switch mode inverter creates a square sine wave. By using two MOSFETs to switch the DC current across two poles, an AC pulse is generated. It is called a square wave because, when viewed through an oscilloscope, the sine wave is square. A true sine wave, like those produced by a large gas-powered generator is an elliptical curve. It has a wide base, tapering to narrow curved apex.

Square sine wave inverters are hardly ever used anymore because they are inefficient, and the square wave is not ideal. Any electric equipment used with a square sine wave will produce excessive heat and noise. This not only wastes energy but can harm some appliances. There are some appliances that won’t function at all when powered by a square wave inverter.

To improve performance and efficiency, additional MSFETs can be used to produce multiple square waves. Each consecutive square is smaller than the preceding one. By stacking these decreasing squares on top of each other, the wave resembled steps. This is known as a step square, or modified sine wave. The more steps used, the more it will resemble a true sine wave square. Though, with each additional MOSFET, the inverter becomes heavier and more expensive. Modified sine wave inverters seldom have more than 3 steps (6 MOSFETs). While these inverters are more efficient and provide a better sine wave than square wave inverters, they still don’t provide a true sine wave. Essentially, they have the same inefficiency and operating properties of a square wave inverter. The issues are simply reduced with each step in the square wave.

IGBT Inverters

If we were to get really technical, IGBT inverters also generate a modified sine wave. However, the multitude of steps used, resemble a true sine wave. In comparison to a modified sine wave with only a few steps, IGBT invertors use thousands of steps, making them undetectable when using an oscilloscope. They, therefore, function in exactly the same way as pure sine wave generated by an alternator. In fact, the resultant wave is better than one can usually expect to find when measuring the AC current supplied from the grid. In other words, a pure sine wave (IGBT) inverter provides the cleanest power possible with the lowest Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). When people talk about “dirty power” harming electronic equipment, this refers to high THD levels. I consider 5% THD, or less, to be good power than won’t damage these appliances.

THD refers to imperfections in the sine wave caused by fluctuations in the frequency and voltage. An IGBT inverter uses sophisticated transistors, combined with capacitors, to produce a constant pure sine wave. The general standard for these inverters is a THD reading of less than 3%. Some are as low as <1%. Because the inverter has an onboard computer monitoring the current constantly, minor changes in frequency and voltage are corrected within less than a 60^th of a second. I’ve done many tests, measuring the voltage and frequency that is supplied from the grid. The grid power supplied to your home can have THD levels close to 10%, in some areas even higher. Most gas-powered generators (that don’t use an inverter) produce THD levels of 25% or more. This is why these generators are not recommended for TVs, computers, or any electrical equipment with electronic circuitry. This would mean any appliance with an LCD screen or soft touch controls.

Pure sine wave inverters are, therefore, much better for your electronics. They are also more efficient and offer higher surge capabilities. This makes these inverters more capable when starting electric motors (pumps, refrigerators, and air conditioners), as well as other inductive loads, like microwaves and fluorescent lights.

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Understanding Batteries

Of the numerous rechargeable batteries on the market, only two types are extensively used for indoor generators, or portable battery power stations. Lithium Ion batteries are widely considered to be the best batteries available today and are rapidly becoming the battery of choice for indoor generators. The other option would be lead acid (deep cycle) batteries. A more environmentally friendly alternative to lead acid batteries are calcium gel batteries. Because these batteries have the same characteristics as lead acid batteries, you can view them in the same way. It’s just that the lead has been replaced by calcium, which is not toxic.

Lithium Ion Batteries

Used in everything from mobile devices to battery-powered tools, lithium ion batteries have become the most popular portable power source in use today. The fact that these batteries have a wonderful ratio between density and mass to their power output, is the main reason why they are so popular. A relatively small, lightweight battery can provide a large number of ampere hours (AH).

Apart from their efficiency, lithium ion batteries are much more accommodating when it comes to battery cycles. The term battery cycle refers to the number of times a battery can be discharged and recharged. A full battery cycle is running from full to charge to complete discharge and then back to full charge again. A 50% cycle means only discharging a battery to half its capacity and then recharging it to full. So, when you see a battery rated for 500 cycles, it means the battery can be completely discharged and then recharged a total of 500 times before it needs to be replaced. This cycle time will usually be accompanied by a percentage. If, for example, the spec is 500 cycles at 80%, it means that the battery will last for 500 cycles at an average discharge rate of 80% of its total capacity before recharging.

Most rechargeable batteries deteriorate rapidly as a result of irregular cycles. This means that the battery should be completely discharged and then recharged to full every time they are used. These batteries also deteriorate when stored for prolonged periods, especially if stored when not fully charged. This does not apply to lithium ion batteries. Depending on how they are manufactured, lithium batteries can be stored for up to a year without needing to be placed on charge. Furthermore, you can store these batteries when they are not fully charged.

The only disadvantage to using lithium ion batteries is their cost. These are the most expensive batteries that you can buy. Fortunately, we have seen prices for these batteries drop over the years.

Lead Acid Batteries

Included among standard lead acid batteries, we can also list Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries and calcium gel batteries. I’ve already explained the difference between calcium gel and conventional lead acid batteries in the introduction to this section of the article, so I’ll briefly explain AGM batteries. These batteries were first developed for solar applications that need to allow for exceptionally long charge and discharge cycles. By using a glass matt and a gel, these batteries have improved cooling abilities, and this increases their lifespan during charge and discharge cycles. AGM batteries are usually more expensive than conventional lead acid batteries, but should last longer. Other than this, they function in the same way.

Lead acid batteries are preferred as a cheaper type of rechargeable battery. They are, however, very heavy. This makes them less than ideal for portable equipment. One also has to pay more attention to maintenance when dealing with lead acid batteries. Although most are sold as maintenance-free sealed lead acid batteries, this merely means that you don’t need to add water or acid over the lifespan of the battery. Lead acid battery maintenance centers around charging, discharging, and storage.

No battery is more affected by irregular cycles than a lead acid battery. Leaving a lead acid battery for any length of time at low charge can destroy the battery in short period of time. It is essential that you charge the battery to full immediately after every use, at least within 24-hours. Another issue with these batteries is a high level of self-discharge. This means that when a lead acid battery is stored, it starts to lose charge. A lead acid battery should always be stored at full charge and then placed on charge at least every three months.

An important, and often overlooked, maintenance requirement for lead acid batteries, is regular maintenance cycles. Every year, or every 100 cycles, a lead acid battery needs a maintenance cycle. This entails a gradual discharge until the battery reaches full discharge and then a full recharge. This re-energizes the electrolytes and prolongs the battery life.

LFP (LifePO4) batteries / Lithium iron phosphate battery

Most people are familiar with lithium-ion batteries as they have become commonplace over the past twenty years. Believe it or not, lithium-ion batteries were first introduced to the commercial market in 1991 by Sony. I was born in 1970 and I remember that alkaline batteries were the type of batteries I would use in my battery-operated toys but in my twenties, lithium-ion batteries began to make their way onto the market, and they were marketed as lasting longer than alkaline batteries which were everywhere. Truth is, lithium-ion batteries are no longer the best type of batteries as they’ve been surpassed by Lithium-Iron Phosphate batteries, or LifePO4, which is how you’ll typically see them labeled. Or, you may see the label LFP (lithium ferrophosphate). These are the same as “ferro” is another way to write “iron.”

You may have noticed that several of the newer indoor generators are using LifePO4 batteries because they have characteristics that make them perfect for home battery generators. Here are why lithium-iron phosphate batteries are superior to lithium-ion batteries:

• Higher energy density
• Safe batteries and suitable to work in harsh ambient temperature
• Greater operating efficiency in warmer temperature
• Protected against over-charging
• Minimal discharge rate
• Lighter in weight compared to equal energy density of other battery chemistry types
• Higher charge cycles / maintains charge at a better rate compared to other batteries

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The Future of Portable Power Stations

The future of portable power stations is on an explosive upward trajectory as our world shifts from our dependency on fossil fuels (crude oil/gasoline) for our energy needs to a world relying on sustainable green energy such as solar, wind and geothermal as our primary sources of energy. We’re certainly not there yet, but eventually we will have to be and I’m confident we will be as time moves on and technology advances.

Google Trends / Increasing Demand for Battery Power Stations

The world has taken big steps toward realizing a greener future thanks in large part to Elon Musk and Tesla, the company he founded, which has proven the viability of affordable electric transportation to the mass market. Because of Tesla and the success of its vehicles, every car manufacturer has poured billions of dollars into developing their own electric vehicles to meet the increasing consumer demand. Besides cars, the trucking industry is also going through a massive transformation as semi-trucks and delivery vehicles are beginning to show up on our roadways and highways. Tesla has also developed their PowerWall brand, which happens to be a home battery backup system. I predict that home power stations, big and small, will continue to grow at an exponential rate until a different form of energy storage is invented. When you think of it deeply you quickly realize that energy storage will never go out of style and our need for long-term power backup will only increase as the global population increases, and crude oil begins to decline — someday it will; maybe not tomorrow, but eventually we will require other forms of sustainable energy.

…earth has 53 years of oil reserves left at current rate of consumption.

Millennium Alliance for Humanity / Stanford University — When Fossil Fuels Run Out, What Then?

Portable power stations and battery-backup generators are a natural extension of our rapidly changing world. Battery storage is our best means to store energy that we capture from solar panels, or any other means, but solar is the most common for our day-to-day needs. Besides solar, indoor generators are recharged using standard home household outlets, or if you’re on the road you can use your car 12V outlet as well. To keep things simple, all you need to know is that batteries are the new gasoline — they store energy. Current battery power stations still don’t have the energy density of gasoline, but they are getting closer every year. For example, many battery-powered chainsaws have the equivalent power as 45cc gas chainsaws, like the GreenWorks 80V or the EGO 56V — BUT, if you wanted the equivalent of an 80cc gas chainsaw powered by batteries, it wouldn’t be feasible because the battery pack would be so heavy and bulky that you wouldn’t be able to use the chainsaw safely.

Makita has recently made a long-term commitment to creating a professional line of power tools that rival gasoline like a lawn mower and miter saw. Their technology is impressive in so many ways. It’s clear that manufacturer’s will eventually phase out gas-powered power equipment. This is a natural progression of human technology. The Makita PDC01 is an innovative use of battery power designed to give you plenty of power to run your Makita tools and conveniently carry the energy on your back — literally — it’s a backpack battery power supply. With time, batteries will get denser but the laws of thermodynamics will always dictate the limitations of energy storage.

VIDEO — How Gasoline is Made from Crude Oil

References on Sustainable Energy:

• How rising gas prices emphasize the need for renewable energy : University of Colorado/BOULDER

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New vs Last Generation : Goal Zero Power Stations —-

Goal Zero Yeti 400 (LITHIUM) / Goal Zero Yeti 3000

Goal Zero Yeti indoor generators provide the full package with complete convenience and versatility. The smaller Goal Zero Yeti 400 (300W) generator can compare very favorably to the Jackery Explorer (at the top of the review). The Goal Zero Yeti 3000 can be compared to the Power+ Nexus (reviewed above). It has the same output as the Nexus (3000W), but with the twice the battery time, and an option for solar charging. It is, however, much heavier than the Nexus, making it a less favorable option as far as portability is concerned.

Goal Zero — Yeti 400 // Yeti 400 LITHIUM

Indoor Generators that can be connected to solar panels for recharging.

Note : There are two different versions of the Yeti 400 — The Yeti 400 and the Yeti 400 LITHIUM. See the features below for the differences between each model. It can be confusing if you are unaware of the two versions.

Comparison Chart : Goal Zero Yeti 400 vs Yeti 400 LITHIUM (Discontinued)

✓ NOTE : Either of these Yeti 400 indoor generators can : Recharge mini-Fridge up to 7 hrs., 32″ LCD TV up to 3 hrs., recharge your smartphone up to 20x (depending on battery)

Feature Comparison  — Yeti 400 vs Yeti 400 LITHIUM :

• Quiet, lightweight, indoor generator.
• BATTERY :
  • Yeti 400 Regular :
    • Replaceable sealed lead-acid AGM battery
    • Cell Type: AGM Lead-Acid
    • Peak Capacity: 396Wh (12V, 33Ah)
    • Lifecycles: hundreds of cycles
    • Shelf-Life: Keep plugged in, or charge every 3-6 months
    • Fuses: none
    • Management System: Charging and low-battery protection
  • Yeti 400 Lithium :
    • Replaceable lithium battery
    • Cell Chemistry: Li-ion NMC
    • Peak Capacity: 428Wh (10.8V, 39.6Ah)
    • Lifecycles: 500 cycles to 80% (discharge rate: 1C, full charge/discharge, Temp 25C)
    • Shelf-life: Keep plugged in, or charge every 3-6 months
    • Management system: PWM (pulse-width modulation) charge controller, low battery protection
• PORTS :
  • Yeti 400 Regular :
    • USB port (output): 5V, up to 2.1A (10W max) regulated
    • 6mm port (output, 6mm, green, hexagon): 12V, up to 10A (120W max)
    • 12V car port (output): 12V, up to 10A (120W max)
    • AC inverter (output, 60Hz, pure sine wave): 110V, 2.6A (300W continuous, 600W surge max)
    • Power Pole Chaining Port: 12V, up to 33A (400W max)
    • Charging Port (input, 8mm, blue, circle): 14-29V, up to 10A (120W max)
  • Yeti 400 Lithium :
    • USB port (output): 5V, up to 2.4A (12W max), regulated
    • 6mm port (output, 6mm): 12V, up to 10A (120W max)
    • 12V car port (output): 12V, up to 10A (120W max)
    • AC inverter (output, pure sine wave): 120VAC 60Hz, 2.5A (300W continuous, 1200W surge max)
    • Charging port (input, 8mm): 14-22V, up to 10A (120W max)
• GENERAL :
  • Yeti 400 Regular :
    • Chainable: Yes
    • Weight: 29 lbs (13.2 kg)
    • Dimensions: 10.25″ x 8″ x 8″ (26 x 20.3 x 20.3 cm)
    • Operating Usage Temp: 32-104 °F (0-40°C)
    • Certs: CE, FCC, ROHS
    • Warranty: 6 months
  • Yeti 400 Lithium :
    • Chainable: No
    • Weight: 16.3 lbs (7.4 kg)
    • Dimensions: 7.5″ x 11.2″ x 7.0″ (19.0 x 28.6 x 17.7 cm)
    • Operating Usage Temp: 32-104°F (0-40°C)
    • Warranty: 12 Months
• Solar Panels :
  • Yeti 400 Regular / Yeti 400 Lithium
  • Goal Zero : Boulder 50, 100 & 200 (4 to 8 hr. recharge)
  • Goal Zero : Nomad 100  (6.5-16 hr. recharge time)

Manuals :

• ✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Yeti 400 LITHIUM.
• ✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Yeti 400.

Overview (Yeti 400) :

In terms of technical specifications, there is no real difference between the Goal Zero Yeti 400 and the Jackery Explorer 440. This model provides almost the same output power and the battery time is about the same too. This makes it suitable for laptops, LED lights, charging USB devices, or a mini fridge. When I say the power output for the two indoor generators is almost the same, the difference should be pointed out. The Yeti has the same continuous power output as the Jackery Explorer (300W). But the peak (starting current) is almost 3-times higher than the Explorer. This could make the Yeti more capable when it comes to using a small camping refrigerator with a high startup load.

While I prefer the design of the Jackery, the Yeti 400 isn’t all that different in terms of dimensions and weight. The Yeti is a little heavier, at 16.3 pounds (vs 12.6 pounds for the Explorer). The Yeti has a boxier shape, but isn’t much larger, measuring 7.5” X 11.25” X 7”. It’s superbly portable with a great fold down handle.

The Yeti 400 has the outlets to match: 2 X 120V (2.5A) AC outlets and 3 X 5V (2.4A) USB ports. It also has two 12V 10A charging ports, one being a 6mm (¼”) port and the other, a regular car cigarette lighter type outlet.  The 39.6AH (10.8V) lithium ion battery provides just about the same number of watt-hours, when compared to its rival, the Jackery Explorer 440. You can expect similar performance: cell phone charging – 31 times or more; tablets – 25 times; cameras – 50 times; or drones – 5 times; mini-fridge ±6-hours; 32” LCD TV 10-hours+.

Like the Jackery, this is a rugged, portable indoor generator that is equally at home in the great outdoors. It has the same advantage of a comprehensive LCD display, and the option for solar or AC battery charging, with similar charging times. The Goal Zero Yeti 400 has the additional advantage of a 12V charging port, making it possible to charge the generator using your car. Though it will take 4-7 hours to charge the Yeti in this way. It would be a good idea to start and run your car engine a few times during this period to prevent your car battery from fully discharging.

VIDEO OVERVIEW | Goal Zero Yeti 400 LITHIUM

Depending on where you look, you could end up paying around 100 bucks more for the Yeti, compared to the Jackery Explorer. Since these two indoor generators have almost identical technical specifications, it could be hard to justify the higher price. The only notable difference that I can find, is the 12V car charging option. Of course, this can be quite a benefit. You can charge the Yeti 400, when camping or tailgating, without the additional expense of a solar panel.

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⚡️ Even More Power : Goal Zero YETI 6000X

The 3000X can keep your home comfortable during a power outage, and you can safely it indoors. Technology has been advancing at a fast pace for indoor generators over the past year or so. The future looks bright. The Tesla Powerwall is what the future of home power will look like. You can thank Elon Musk for jump-starting battery power in the 21st century.

Just to share one tidbit of knowledge about the Yeti 3000X : It Can run a full size fridge for over 50 hours (2 days straight) so your food doesn’t spoil when the power goes out. Trust me, food spoilage is a massive problem when the power goes out.

An excellent alternative to gas-powered inverter generators. Produces 1500W of running power and a 3000W of starting power. Clean, no fumes, no maintenance. Run it indoors. Ideal for emergencies and power outages. Included wheels make it easy to move around.

Read our review of the updated X-Series models for 2021 : YETI 3000X

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Goal Zero — Yeti 3000 (Discontinued)

Features (Yeti 3000 LITHIUM): Older model review

• Patented AC and 60W USB-C Power Delivery Ports
• 10 ports available with high surge capacities for greater compatibility with more power-hungry devices, and the latest in USB-C power delivery capable of charging larger USB devices like laptops.
• WiFi Connected Power Station : Connect a mobile app enabled Yeti through your WiFi router and control it remotely using the new Goal Zero Yeti App. Turn ports on or off, check battery levels, even update the Yeti’s firmware with your chosen device. App can be downloaded via the Apple Store or Google Play Store.
• MPPT Pre-Installed : Solar charging optimization module that functions as a maximum power point tracker (MPPT), resulting in up to 40% faster charge times, especially from solar panels.
• Includes Wheels and Telescoping Handle : Mobility kit comes pre-installed and can easily be removed when needed.
• Ultra-safe Lithium Battery : Quality lithium cells, known for stability, monitored by a state-of-the-art battery management system that prevents over-charge, over-current, and short circuiting. The battery pack is enclosed in a water-tight enclosure that seals it from the elements and allows for a user-replaceable system, lending to the overall longevity of the product.
• RECHARGE :
  • Recharge from the sun by connecting a compatible solar panel. Charge time is dependent on the size of the solar panel. The Boulder 200 Briefcase will fully recharge the Yeti 3000 Lithium in about 18-36 hours.
  • Plug it into the wall. Fully recharges in 10 hours using the [Yeti Fast Charge 25 Amp Power Supply and 25 hours using the two included wall chargers.
  • The Goal Zero Yeti 3000 Lithium can be charged by plugging into your 12V adapter using the Goal Zero Yeti Lithium 12V Car Charging Cable.
    • NOTE: Do not attempt to charge your Yeti Lithium from a 12V source using a regular charging cable. Doing so may cause damage to the unit.
• APP :
  • Redefine power at the push of a button with the smart, easy-to-use Goal Zero Yeti App. Sync your Yeti directly with the Yeti App using Direct Connect or establish a connection via an available WiFi network.
  • Check battery level, power in and out, even turn ports on and off, all from the palm of your hand.
  • Over the air firmware updates keep your Yeti performing at its best and are easily managed within the Goal Zero Yeti App.
  • Connect multiple Yetis to a single device, or multiple devices to a single Yeti.
• PORTS :
  • USB A port (output): 5V, up to 2.4A (12W max), regulated
  • USB C port (output): 5V, up to 3.0A (15W max), regulated
  • USB PD port (output): 5V, 12V, 20V up to 3.0A (60W max)
  • 6mm port (output, 6mm): 12V, up to 10A (120W max)
  • 12V car port (output): 12V, up to 10A (120W max)
  • 12V Power Pole port (output): 12V, up to 20A (240W max)
  • 120V AC Inverter: 120VAC 60Hz, 12.5A (1500W, 3000W surge)
    (output, pure sine wave)
  • Charging port (input, 8mm): 14-22V, up to 10A (120W max)
  • Power Pole charging port (input): 14-22V, up to 30A (360W max)
  • Expansion Module port Covered port under the lid. To be used with Goal Zero expansion modules only
• GENERAL :
  • Weight (Yeti & MPPT charger): 68.6 lbs (31.1 kg)
  • Weight (cart only): 8.9 lbs (4 kg)
  • Dimensions (Yeti only): 10.1″ x 15.3″ x 13.1″ (25.7 x 38.9 x 33.3 cm)
• BATTERY : Cell chemistry: Li-ion NMC. Pack capacity: 3075Wh (10.95V, 280.8Ah)

✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Yeti 3000 LITHIUM.

Overview

I am suitably impressed with the Goal Zero Yeti 3000. I’ve compared it to the Ego Power+ Nexus, though I feel the Yeti is the more practical of the two. Before I go onto the advantages that the Yeti 3000 has over its 3000W counterpart, I should point out the major disadvantage. While both the Yeti 3000 and Power+ Nexus have the same peak power (3000W), the Nexus has 500 watts less continuous power. At 1500W (vs 2000W for the Nexus), the Yeti cannot supply the same constant load. The power difference is a full 25%, which can make a big difference in your use of the generator.

With 1500W continuous power and a 3000W peak, the Yeti 3000 will run a regular refrigerator, along with other basics, like TVs, computers and lights. The limitation will come in when using two high-powered appliances at the same time. If you want to use your microwave, you’ll probably need to disconnect the refrigerator first. The other slight inconvenience, with regards to the Yeti 3000 vs Ego Power+ Nexus, is the weight of 68.6-pounds. Though this extra weight is unavoidable, as this one has a considerably larger battery and a built-in solar charger. Both of these are of great benefit, which makes the extra weight a necessary evil. The Yeti 3000 is supplied with a great transportation cart, so it is still portable. The cart has large wheels, capable of moving over pretty rough terrain, and a telescopic handle.

Now for the long list of pros that make the Goal Zero Yeti 3000, in my opinion, one of the top indoor generators. First of all, the Yeti 3000 has an amazing lithium ion (10.9V) 280.8 AH battery, providing a whopping 3075 watt-hours. This battery provides over 2-hours, at maximum continuous output. I reckon, under normal usage, you should get around 6 – 8 hours from the internal battery. The really remarkable part of this generator is the ingenious Yeti Expansion Module system. This allows you to connect additional batteries of a different type. So, you can chain extra batteries and they don’t have to be Yeti lithium ion batteries, you can use regular lead acid batteries. I think that this is the only system of its kind. In addition to this, the Yeti 3000 has multiple charging methods, with every type of input port there is.

VIDEO | A Closer Look : Goal Zero Yeti Generators

The Yeti 3000 indoor generator is supplied with 2 X 5A 110V AC chargers, this will charge the internal battery in about 25-hours. They also supply an optional 25A high-power charger that will reduce the AC charging time to around 8-hours. You will need to buy this charger separately. The Yeti has a built-in MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) solar charger with 2 X 14 – 22 Volt solar inputs. The 10A (8mm) input allows you to connect a Boulder 100 solar panel, with a charging time of 41 – 120 hours, depending on the available sunlight. An additional Power Pole solar charging point can handle a solar charge of 30A (up to 3 X 100W solar panels), which will reduce your solar charging time to 14 – 40 hours. The handy Boulder Briefcase is a wonderfully portable 200W solar panel kit that is easy to set up and will charge the Yeti 3000 to full within 20 – 60 hours. You also have the option to use one of two (10A or 20A) 12V car charging ports.

Output ports for the Yeti 3000 are equally impressive. Not least of which has to be the full array of USB ports with enough amperage to charge a laptop. It has the common USB A (5V, 2.4A) port that is used for phones and tablets up to 12W. The USB C port provides 5V up to 3A, with a maximum rating of 15-watts. Then there’s the less common USB PD port, that supplies 3A at either 5V, 12V, or 20V, taking the charge capacity up to a maximum of 60W, suitable for most laptops. The array of 12V DC outlets is more than most. A regular 10A cigarette lighter style car outlet is provided, along with a 6MM (¼”) 10A 12V output and a 12V Power Pole output that can supply 20A (up to 120W).

VIDEO | A Closer Look : Yeti APP

The dual 120V conventional household outlets each provide 12.5A pure sine wave, inverter AC power. The LCD screen provides all the system information in an easy to follow format. You can see, at glance, how much power you’re using, the battery charge level, and remaining run time. The Yeti 3000 has a very useful Wi Fi enabled phone app with a lot of additional functions and information.

The Goal Zero Yeti 3000 must be one of the most accomplished battery-powered indoor generators around. It has the output to compete with gas generators and a built-in battery to provide decent backup time. The option to chain additional batteries, multiple charging ports, and the most comprehensive array of power outlets, most certainly places the Yeti 3000 in a league of its own. Okay, it’s a bit on the heavy side, and somewhat bulky, but this is to be expected when you look at all that has been packed inside this machine. I can’t help but be totally impressed with this marvel of technology. It has everything I’d want in a portable battery generator for both home and camping applications.

Visit the Goal Zero site to learn more about their Yeti power stations, solar panels and other well-made products.

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For Reference : Discontinued Battery Power Stations

Sun Joe SJ1440SG – Discontinued

Indoor or outdoor generator. 1440 running watts. 1800 starting watts. Released in 2019. Sadly, another example of a great product that didn’t last very long in the marketplace.

Features:

• Compatible with the Sun Joe folding panels attachment SJ1440SP (no longer available)
• Fuel-free portable power for small, household electronics, jump-starting engines, RV trips, camping, and power tools
• Charges from 120 Voltage wall outlet or optional solar panel
• 4 in. LCD displays system information battery status
• Internal sealed lead acid (SLA) battery is non-toxic, fuel and fume-free, and safe for indoor outdoor use
• Continuous output power: 1440 Watt
• Equipped with 2 car auxiliary outlets, 2 USB ports and 2 plug outlets
• AC charge time max: 24 hours
• Solar panel charge time max: 60 hours
• Made from plastic and metal
• Warranty: 2 years limited
• No assembly required
• Weight  : 107 lbs
• Dimensions (L x W x H) : 21.65 x 17.75 x 25.60 Inches

✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Sun Joe SJ1440SG.

Overview

At around a third of the price, compared to the Yeti 3000W, some may find the Sun Joe 1440W (SJ1440SG) indoor generator to be an irresistible bargain. Sun Joe is a cheaper brand and some of the plastic components don’t appear to match the Goal Zero build quality. None the less, the Sun Joe is a reasonably rugged indoor generator, capable of withstanding the rigors of camping and site work, albeit not quite as tough as the formidable Yeti or, for that matter, the Ego Power+ Nexus. Since the Sun Joe SJ1440G Provides 1440W continuous power (only 60W less than the Yeti) at a much better price, I’m sure many would be prepared to overlook the minor discrepancies when it comes to cheaper build quality. The Sun Joe is not at all that flimsy. But it is as simple as all that?

Form the outward appearance, one wouldn’t consider the Sun Joe SJ1440SG to be that different when compared to its more expensive rivals. Though, after a detailed examination of the technical specifications, I can see why the Sun Joe is so much cheaper. The most significant difference between the Sun Joe and all the other indoor generators in this review, is the use of a modified sine wave inverter. All the others use a true sine wave inverter. After the review, I’ll explain the technical aspects of inverters, which should help you better understand the difference between square wave, modified sine wave, and true (or pure) sine wave inverters. For now, let’s just say that a modified sine wave inverter is the cheaper option compared to true sine wave inverters.

VIDEO | A Closer Look at the Sun Joe Indoor Generator

The modified sine wave inverter is not as efficient as the true sine wave alternative and, therefore, reduces the time that one gets from a battery. Inverter and exchange efficiency stats for the Sun Joe are rated at 85%.

There are some appliances that don’t function optimally, using a modified sine wave, putting further load on battery. These inverters usually produce an audible humming sound, that can be a little distracting under high loads. Taking all this into account, a modified sine wave is still a step up from the cheapest option, this being a square wave inverter. In the end, you may see a slight pulsing of LED lights, and some electrical equipment may generate extra heat when using a modified sine wave inverter, like the Sun Joe. Not ideal, but you still have power during an electrical outage, or heading off grid. There has to be some sort of compromise at this price.

With the exception of a few cheap plastic components and the less efficient inverter, the Sun Joe compares favorably to the other larger indoor generators in our top 5 review. Though, it doesn’t have a very high peak load. With a surge capacity of 1800W (15A), the Sun Joe is a far cry from the 3000W peak current as seen on the Yeti 3000. This is still enough to provide the in-rush current to start a refrigerator, or microwave, but limits the ability to start more than appliance at a time.

VIDEO | See it connected to the Sun Joe SJ1440SP 60W solar panel

I suppose another reason why the Sun Joe is cheaper, would be the use of a lead acid (deep cycle) battery, the others use lighter, more expensive lithium ion batteries. The only real drawback to this, from a user point of view, would be the extra weight. The Sun Joe weighs a hefty 107 LBS. To manage this weight, it has large built-in wheels and a telescopic handle. The lead acid battery provides a very acceptable 100AH at 12.5V. Though not quite as impressive as the (10.9V) 280.8 AH used to supply the Yeti.

The heavier battery used in the Sun Joe, combined with a less efficient inverter, will provide less than half the runtime when compared to the Yeti. If you’re using the Sun Joe to power a mid-sized refrigerator and few low-watt appliances, I wouldn’t expect more than 3 – 4 hours runtime from the single internal battery. You should be able to power a single TV (or computer), along with a few LED lights and phone charger, in an emergency for about 8-hours.

I see no mention of the ability to chain extra batteries to extend this time. Given the long (24-hour) charge time for the single battery, I seriously doubt whether the charger will handle additional batteries. Though, because the Sun Joe uses a nominal 12V battery, you can haul out your car battery in an emergency, but don’t expect the generator to charge the battery afterward. It has handy jump-starting terminals to start your car if needed, and you can use these same terminals to chain in additional batteries.

Apart from the AC charger, the Sun Joe also has inputs for a solar panel. This is a 20A solar charger and is not of the MPPT variety (another cost cutting measure). The 3-stage charger is not as efficient as the more expensive MPPT chargers with a 5% loss factor. I suppose this isn’t too bad, using a single 60W Sun Joe (10 – 24.5 VDC) solar panel, it will take about 60-hours to charge the internal battery. Though, by my calculations, the 20A solar charger can accommodate four of these panels, which would bring the battery charging time down to a more reasonable 15-hours.

Outlets and user features on the Sun Joe can be compete with any of the top 5 indoor generators in this review. It has 2 X 120V AC outlets, with GFCI protection. The DC outlets include 2 X 12V automotive auxiliary outputs, and 2 X 5V USB outlets. The large LCD screen has a great display for battery level, battery voltage, output watts, charge watts, and time remaining. All the outlets are protected by plastic covers.

Had it not been for the exceptionally good price, the Sun Joe would have no place in this review of the top 5 indoor generators. It doesn’t have the best inverter, it uses a cheaper lead acid battery, and is a little heavier than one would want from a portable battery power station. However, these compromises are perfectly acceptable when you look at the great value that you’re getting for your money. This must be the most affordable indoor generators in its class. Compared to any of the cheaper alternatives, I doubt you’ll be able to match the quality or performance of this product. If you’re not up to spending the extra cash on the real top-rated indoor generators, this would be the one I’d recommend.

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ROCKPALS RP300W / Discontinued

Features :

• 300 Running Watts and 600 Surge Watts (max).
• Large Capacity: 280WH (3.7V 75Ah/12V 18.7Ah) high capacity lightweight power pack.
• Numerous powering options including:1*AC output to 300W continuous (600W surge max);5* DC port (16A / 96W max); 2* USB 2.1A and 1*Quick Charge 3.0 usb.
• Pure sine wave better than modified sine wave and clean power like utility supplied electricity.
• Inductive loads like microwaves and motors run faster, quieter and cooler.
• Gas-free source of portable power supply, it runs quiet (The cooling fan on the side of generator will make a slight sound when working), no exhaust fumes.
• An informative display featuring a running time/power time estimator, as well as a power level monitor and an output/input meter.
• Easily powered via the sun powered solar panel or wall outlet.
• On the go power source with lightweight and easy carry handle
• 18 months worry-free warranty and friendly customer service.

What can it power?

280wh(75000mah 3.7v/12v 18750mah) lithium-ion batteries and weighs only 7.3lbs. Powerful enough to charge smartphones 25 times, laptops 4-5 times, 32″ TV 4+ hours, cpap machine 4+ nights(using dc/dc converter), mini-refrigerator 5+ hours, lights or other small appliances and its pure-sine wave inverter provide clean power, just like plugging into the wall at home.

• Powering options :
  • With 120v ac (300w rated / 600w surge) us-standard outlet for your laptop, monitor, tv, air mattress, lamp, fan, router, modem, Christmas lights etc.
  • With 4* 12v dc (48w*3+96w*1) for car powered device under 96w, such as car vacuum, car refrigerator, car air fan, cpap machine etc
  • With 1*24v dc (24v-3a)for connecting 24v appliances.
  • With 4* 5v usb ports (two qc3.0 fast charge) for phones, ipad, gps, mp3, camera, rc helicopter etc.
• Weight : 7.3 lbs.
• Powerful enough to charge smartphones 25 times, laptops 4-5 times, 32″ TVs 4+ hours, CPAP machine 4+ nights (using DC/DC converter), mini-refrigerator 5+ hours, lights or other small appliances.
• Easily rechargeable via the sun or wall:
  • Can be recharged from the sun with any compatible 50w or 100w solar panel (sold separately).
  • Fully charged in 8 hours by being plugged into the wall outlet.
• Pure sine wave inverter: better than modified sine wave and clean power like utility supplied electricity.
• Reduces audible and electrical noise in fans, fluorescent lights, audio amplifiers, tv, fax and answering machines.
• Quiet
• Ports : DC Output: 3 x DC Output Ports (12V/4Al),1 x DC output 24V/3A
  USB Output: 2 x QC 3.0 USB, 2 x USB Ports (5V/3.1A)
  1 x Cigarette lighter, 2 x Flashing Lights for Emergency,1 x Led Display 
• Includes : Rockpals portable generator (280wh portable generator), ac adapter, car charger cable, mc4 adapter, user guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty and friendly customer service.
• For optimal use with cpap:
  • Rockpals rp250w power station has two ways to power your cpap machine: 110v ac plug or 12v/24v dc plug. We strongly recommend that cpap users use dc converter to work with this power station and turn off or remove the heater/ humidifier, thus it should last at least 4 nights. To buy the dc converter, please consult with your cpap supplier or simply reach us for a guide.

Overview

The Rockpals Portable battery power station is a very affordable option for a small unit to use in your RV or at home. Portability is tops, the Rockpal is wonderfully lightweight and has an easy to use retractable handle. If you were considering the Jackery Explorer 440 or Goal Zero Yeti 400, the Rockpals RP300W might be a more appealing option, as you could end up saving a few dollars and end up with an indoor generator with the same capabilities. I really like the value for money aspect to this product. It has the build quality to compete with any of top indoor generators of this size and an excellent, lightweight, lithium ion battery.

VIDEO | ROCKPALS RP300W Indoor Generator

Output capacity is 300W, with a very impressive 600W peak load rating. The only downside is the smaller battery. The lithium ion battery inside the Rockpals provides 280 WH, this almost half that of the Jackery Explorer 440 or Yeti 400. The advantage is a much lower weight of 7.3 pounds, but you have about 60% of the runtime compared to the other two. So, you can’t expect much more than 4-hours if you’re using a 32” LCD TV. You’ll be able to charge a cell phone about 25 times, before running out of battery power.

It takes 6 – 7 hours to charge the battery, using the 110V AC charger and you have about 78W through current when the battery is charging. So, you can continue using low-wattage equipment, like a laptop, whilst charging the internal battery. It has a 12V car charge input, that also accepts a nominal 12V solar panel. Using a car battery, it will take about 6 -7 hours to fully charge the Rockpals, a 60W solar panel will take about 10 – 11 hours to fully charge the battery. Real world testing of the solar charger reveals an efficiency of around 75%. This is certainly not the best and cannot compete with the MPPT solar chargers fitted to the other two 300W indoor generators featured in this review.

The Rockpals has a single 110V AC output socket, supplied by a pure sine wave inverter. DC outputs include an 8A cigarette lighter style 12V DC socket, 3 X 4A 12V DC outputs, and a 24V DC 3A outlet. It also has 2 X QC 3.0 USB ports and 2 X 5V (3.1A) USB ports. Two bright LED flashlights, with separate control switches are a handy addition.

The LCD screen provides most of the essential information, output and input wattage and battery status by means of a battery with charge lines. It doesn’t show exact battery percentage though, the battery indicator really just gives an approximate (25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) indication.

For the lower price tag attached to the Rockpals RP300W indoor generator, the shortcomings aren’t that noticeable. It has a smaller battery with fewer ampere-hours, and a less than ideal solar charger. The redeeming feature may be the higher peak wattage and lightweight design (mostly due to the smaller battery). This is a solid little machine and can be taken anywhere with ease.