Have you always wanted to try living off the grid, but just didn’t know where to start? Are you always looking for new ways to live sustainably? Do you prefer supporting businesses who are leading the charge in innovative, renewable energy sources? Maybe you’re someone who needs to be able to charge your many devices on the go for work?
If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, it’s time for you to meet the Bluetti Portable Power Station!
Founded in 2019 by Wondar Law and James Ray, Bluetti hit the market with a strong vision: “creating a minimalist portable power station that would seamlessly integrate into everyone’s lives.” What started out as a simple idea for one product has since blossomed into a strong line-up of solar-power generators that are sure to make your solar-powered dreams come true.
But before we break down our top five Bluetti portable power stations, let’s learn a bit more about solar power and why making the switch to one of Bluetti’s solar power generators is the right move for you.
Review of the Top 5 Bluetti Power Stations
Ready to start shopping? Bluetti has a wide range of highly-rated products that will be sure to fit your needs. Here are our top five picks:
1. BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200P
As one of the newest additions to Bluetti’s line of portable solar generators, the Bluetti AC200P Portable Power Station has impressed customers quite a lot since its release. At just over 60 pounds, the AC200P is ideal for someone who wants the ability to move their power station around but would prefer to keep it in one place. It’s currently ranked 35th on Amazon’s list of the best outdoor generators, too!
With a huge electronic capacity of 2000Wh and a long battery life cycle earning it a nickname as a “power monster,” the Bluetti AC200P is a great backup generator for emergencies, like power outages. It’s also a great option for people living the van life, as it can be charged effectively with Bluetti’s portable solar panels.
But what else can you do with the Bluetti AC200P? Just about anything! With 2000Wh of energy storage and six 120V AC outputs, users are able to charge up to 17 high-powered appliances, like refrigerators, air conditioners, CPAP machines, microwaves, and power tools. This is definitely an ideal power station for folks looking to be prepared for whatever life throws their way.
The AC200P is also not limited to being charged by solar power, making it a great option for folks who are not hoping to invest in portable solar panels yet. This power station can be recharged five different ways: solar, gas generator, lead-acid battery, AC outlet, or with your car. The typical recharge time for the AC200P is 3-4 hours, but that time is cut down depending on your charging method. For example, since the AC200P includes a pre-installed solar charging optimization module (or MPPT), fully recharging the AC200P with solar panels takes only 2-3 hours!
If you’d like to use solar panels to charge the AC200P, you are not limited to Bluetti products. Bluetti recommends using any panel or combination of panels with MC4 connectors that charge between 35 and 150V, with a max of 700 watts.
In terms of safety, the AC200P uses a LifePO4 Battery cell, ensuring stability, a long life-cycle, safe heat dissipation, and a higher discharge rate. Bluetti has also installed a Battery Management System (BMS), which lengthens the life of the AC200P’s battery cell by protecting it from short-circuiting, overloading, and overheating.
Another draw to this product is its sleek black and silver design and LCD touchscreen display. The real-time display shows the current, voltage, power, temperature and charging status of the AC200P, which makes it much easier to see when the power station needs your attention. It’s also hailed for its quiet performance.
The AC200P is priced between $1,699 – $1,799, making it the most expensive Bluetti power station on our list, but given its capabilities, it’s well worth the higher price.
Summary
BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200P
Pros
- Multiple AC outlets
- LCD touchscreen
- Very fast recharge time
- A long-lasting battery life-cycle
- Multiple ways to recharge the station
- Built-in BMS for safety
- Quiet and discreet
Cons
- Much bulkier than other models
- Higher price-point
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2. MAXOAK BLUETTI EB2400 Portable Solar Power Station
If you’re looking for a portable solar power station that’s long-lasting and capable of carrying a high load of power, the Maxoak Bluetti EB240 is the best choice. With a charge lasting at least three to six months, the EB240 is a versatile option for just about anyone. Whether you’re living off the grid, camping in your RV, or staying prepared for emergencies like hurricanes or other natural disasters, this is the portable solar power station for you.
With an electronic capacity of 2400Wh, bumping it above the AC200P’s capacity, the Maxoak Bluetti EB240 is capable of charging a number of higher voltage appliances, like televisions, CPAPs, drones, mini-fridges, and any and all of your electronic devices.
Unlike the AC200P, the EB240 only has two recharge options: solar panels or an AC wall outlet. Another downside to this product is its longer recharge time; typically, the EB240 takes 12.5 hours to charge on an AC outlet and 9 to 15 hours on a solar panel. However, like the AC200P, the EB240 does include a pre-installed MPPT that allows it to charge 40% faster using solar panels.
If you’d like to use solar panels to charge the EB240, you are not limited to Bluetti products. Bluetti recommends using any panel or combination of panels with MC4 connectors with an input up to 500W/OCV and 16-68V.
The Maxoak Bluetti EB240 also comes with an array of built-in safety features to ensure that you can rest easy knowing this solar power station is running smoothly and safely. With its lithium-ion battery cell, the EB240 has a longer life cycle, high discharge rate, and high-quality heat dissipation. Like the AC200P, the EB240 also has a built-in BMS, protecting the power station from overloading, overheating, and short-circuiting. This solar power station also includes a cooling system that will automatically start when the load of the inverter exceeds 400w, the load of the 12V car port exceeds 80w, or when the charging power of attached appliances exceeds 100W.
Not only is the Maxoak Bluetti EB240 solar power station lighter than the AC200P by nearly 20 pounds, but its design is more appealing, too, with a light blue body and white handle and sides. Like the AC200P, the EB240 has an LCD touchscreen display that shows the current, voltage, power, temperature and charging status. The EB240’s display will also alert you if the product malfunctions by displaying error codes on the screen. The EB240 runs quietly, although some customers have noted that the cooling system fan can sometimes be heard.
The EB240 is slightly cheaper than the AC200P, priced between $1,499 – $1,599.
Summary
MAXOAK BLUETTI EB2400 Portable Solar
Pros
- A long battery life cycle
- Built-in BMS to ensure safety
- Works both in/outdoors
- Appealing and compact design designed for portability
- LCD touchscreen
- Little to no noise
Cons
- Longer recharge time
- Only two options for recharging
- Slightly bulkier than other models
Downloads:
3. BLUETTI AC50S Power Station 500Wh Solar Generator
If you’re planning a longer camping trip, the Maxoak Bluetti AC50S Power Station is the model for you! This compact solar power generator is ideal for situations where you need to charge essential devices for extended periods of time, and not as your only backup for emergencies, like the AC200P and EB240 solar power stations.
The AC50S Power Station has a 500Wh auto-level lithium battery cell built-in with the capability of charging up to 11 devices at one time. It’s the perfect solar power station for folks who want to charge everyday devices like phones, laptops, tablets, cameras, and even televisions and mini-fridges! Unlike the AC200P and EB240 models, the AC50S has a wireless charging option for smartphones – all you have to do is place your phone on top of the power station, and it’ll start to charge. The AC50S needs to be fully charged every 3-6 months.
The Maxoak Bluetti AC50S Power Station has four recharge options: solar panels, AC wall outlets, generators, or your car. Typically, the AC50S takes between five and 6 hours to charge. However, like the AC200P and the EB240, the AC50S does include a pre-installed MPPT that allows it to charge 40% faster using solar panels. Bluetti recommends that you use the Bluetti SP120 120W solar panels to charge the AC50S power station.
Like the previous models, the AC50S solar power station is equipped with a BMS, which enables short circuit protection, voltage control, temperature control and more advanced safety operations. Other safety features include an LCD screen that displays the charge level and battery life.
Weighing only 14lb, the AC50S power station is easily stored in the trunk of your car. And with a foldable handle, storing this solar generator is a breeze. Its compact and sleek speaker-like design makes it fit right at home on your campsite. Not only that, but the AC50S power station is quiet and gives off zero emissions. It also includes a built-in LED light at the front of the station, which comes in handy while camping or during a power outage!
The Maxoak Bluetti AC50S Power Station is the cheapest option available, priced between $399 – 429.
Summary
BLUETTI AC50S Power Station 500Wh
Pros
- Lowest price point
- Easiest solar power station to transport
- Great for camping and other short off-the-grid trips
- Noise-free
- Zero emissions
Cons
- Not ideal for use as a long-term backup generator
- Lower wattage than other models
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4. BLUETTI Portable Power Station EB70
Released in April 2021, the Bluetti EB70 Portable Power Station is the newest model introduced by the solar energy company. The EB70 is a great backup option in the case of a blackout and is marketed as Bluetti’s best power station for camping because of its compact size and easy transportability.
The Bluetti EB70 Portable Power Station is equipped with a 716Wh and 700W LifePO4 battery; the EB70 can go through more than 2500 life cycles before reaching 80% of its capacity, making it a real powerhouse of a solar power generator. This station also has the capacity to charge up to 12 devices simultaneously. It’s the ideal product for charging televisions, mini-fridges, air pumps, laptops, and more! Like the previous models, the EB70 power station operates with pure sine wave outlets, protecting your devices from overload.
Similar to the Maxoak Bluetti AC50S Power Station, the Bluetti EB70 Portable Power Station has four recharge options: solar panels, AC wall outlets, generators, or your car. Typically, the EB40 takes between 3 and 4 hours to fully charge when using solar power or an AC wall outlet. If you’d like to charge your EB70 power station in a carport, it could take up to 8 hours, so keep that in mind when planning your next camping trip. Like the AC200P, EB240, and AC50S, the EB70 also includes a pre-installed MPPT that allows it to charge 40% faster when using solar panels.
Like all of Bluetti’s portable solar power stations, the EB70 is equipped with a BMS, which enables short circuit protection, voltage control, temperature control, and more advanced safety operations. The EB70’s battery is also automatically set to Eco Mode, which means the AC outputs of the power station will be turned off automatically after 4 hours to help save energy.
A special feature of Bluetti’s EB70 Portable Power Station not seen in our other top choices is its variety of colors! Unlike the other models, the EB70 is available in five different colors – Light Green, Space Gray, Vibrant Red, Blue, and Gray – so you can show off your personality while reducing your carbon footprint!
Unfortunately, reviews of this newer product bring up the noise level of the EB70 power station as an issue. Other downsides to the EB70 include its charging limitations for higher wattage appliances, like hairdryers, air compressors, electric grills, and air fryers. However, if you’re looking for a durable, compact portable solar power station that’s best for camping and will help you stay connected during power outages, the Bluetti EB70 is the power station for you.
The Bluetti EB70 Portable Power Station, like the AC50S, is among the more wallet-friendly options, priced at $599.
Summary
BLUETTI Portable Power Station EB70
Pros
- Lower price point
- Easy to transport
- Great for camping and other short off-the-grid trips
- Eco mode helps save power
Cons
- Lacks a fuel gauge
Downloads:
5. MAXOAK Portable Power Station BLUETTI 1500Wh 1000W
If you and your family are looking for a portable solar power station that ensures you’ll always have power in the case of an emergency, the Maxoak Bluetti EB150 Portable Power Station is for you. With a broader capacity of 1500Wh, the EB150 solar power generator is able to charge larger household items up to 1000W, like refrigerators, space heaters, power tools, film equipment, laptops, and more. The EB150 is also another great option for longer camping or RV trips.
The Maxoak Bluetti EB150 Portable Power Station includes an auto-level 1000Wh lithium battery cell, which, like the smaller EB70 model, has a longer lifetime at more than 2,500 cycles. This higher battery capacity makes it easier to charge multiple devices. In fact, the EB150 power station can charge up to eight devices simultaneously – just make sure they’re all under 1000W, or you could be in danger of overloading the unit. Like the rest of our top Bluetti power station picks, the EB150 power station operates with pure sine wave outlets, protecting your devices from overload.
When it comes to charging the Maxoak Bluetti EB150 Portable Power Station, you have three recharging options: solar power, AC outlets, or a generator. If you’re using AC or a generator, the charge time is approximately eight hours. If you’re using solar panels, the charge time varies depending on what panels you’re using. Bluetti’s SP120 120W solar panels will charge the EB150 power station in nine to 10 hours, whereas the SP200 200W solar panels will charge the EB150 in just five to six hours. Keep this in mind when deciding whether you’d like to bundle this solar power station with the solar panels offered by Bluetti!
Like the previous recommendations, the EB150 includes a pre-installed MPPT that ensures a faster charge while connected to certain solar panels. Compatible solar panels should have an open-circuit voltage (OCV) of 16-60V with a max of 500W and should be equipped with an MC4 connector. And a tip from Bluetti: if you’re using multiple solar panels, make sure the total OCV is not over 60V.
Like all of Bluetti’s portable solar power stations, the EB150 is equipped with a BMS, which protects the generator from overheating, overloading, short-circuiting, and more. The EB150 is also equipped with an LCD screen that displays the charge and discharge levels, as well as the battery life status. The station is also equipped with a quiet and intelligent cooling fan that starts automatically when the wattage exceeds its capabilities.
What makes Bluetti’s EB150 solar power station special is its noiselessness, despite its bulk. If you’re going to be stuck without power for an extended period of time, you won’t need to worry about a loud generator buzzing nearby! Although it’s definitely one of the bulkier offerings from Bluetti, the EB150 is also available in two colors – Blue and Black – so you aren’t completely limited in your aesthetic choices.
Currently, the Maxoak Bluetti EB150 Portable Power Station is priced between $999 and $1,099, making it one of the more expensive models in Bluetti’s line-up. However, its durability and long battery life make it well worth the price.
Summary
MAXOAK Portable Power Station BLUETTI 1500Wh 1000W
Pros
- Runs very quietly
- Incredibly long battery life
- Can charge a variety of high-power appliances
Cons
- Bulky, but not hard to transport
- Higher price point
Downloads:
How Does Solar Power Work?
It may come as a surprise to you, but innovators and engineers have been harnessing the power of the sun for centuries! In fact, the first functional solar powered steam engine was invented in France in the 1860s. According to the U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, solar technologies capture the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun and harness it into energy, like electricity.
Right now, there are two main technologies used to harness the power of the sun – photovoltaics (or PV) and concentrating solar power (or CSP). For the purposes of this guide, we’ll be focusing on PV technology, which is the most common solar technology on the market. If you’re familiar with solar panels, you’re already on your way to understanding PV! The cells in solar panels absorb radiation from the sun, which allows electricity to flow through the panels and into your home.
As our world moves towards using more sustainable energy sources that don’t continue to harm our ecosystem, you’ve likely noticed more alternative energy sources, like wind and solar power, popping up around you. Integrating these products into your daily life is a great way to do your part to keep our planet healthy.
Portable Power Station Buying Guide
How to Choose the Right Bluetti Portable Solar Power Station?
First, you need to ask yourself what you want to get out of your new portable solar power station. Are you looking for something small that can easily be transported for camping trips? Do you want a reliable backup generator in the event of a natural disaster, like a hurricane, that leaves your home without power? Or are you someone who needs constant access to power for work?
When shopping for a Bluetti portable solar power station, price is key. Bluetti’s products range between $400 and $1,500, depending on battery power, size, and intended use. You should also consider the price of portable solar panels, as these are not included with Bluetti’s solar power stations.
Before you start using a Bluetti solar generator, you should consider purchasing a solar panel to connect to your new portable power station. Bluetti’s solar panels range between $400 and $550 each, and the company recommends that customers use at least three solar panels to charge their devices. Luckily, Bluetti offers a wide variety of bundling options so you can start your solar power journey in one place!
Bluetti offers two different solar panels to connect with their solar generators: the SP120 120W Solar Panel and the SP200 200W Solar Panel. As the power stations, both of these panels are portable, so you can take them anywhere.
However, it’s not necessary to use solar panels with Bluetti’s portable solar power stations. You can also charge your Bluettie power station with an AC outlet, a conventional generator, or a carport outlet.
How to Use a Portable Solar Power Station?
Using a portable solar power station for the first time may seem a bit intimidating, but luckily, Bluetti’s products are easy to use and are very user-friendly. All of Bluetti’s portable power stations come equipped with a User Manual, so you can start testing out your product as soon as you bring it home.
You can download all of Bluetti’s user guides for free here.
Safety Tips
Operating Bluetti’s products safely is a key to getting the most out of your new portable power station. These solar power stations are much safer than a traditional electric generator; because these products are battery-powered, there is little to no risk of physical injury involved in their use, and they don’t pollute the environment with carbon monoxide.
However, as with all power sources, you should always read the User Manual in full before you start operating your Bluetti solar power station. While all of Bluetti’s products include Battery Management Systems (or BMS) that prevent overloading, overheating and more, they still produce electricity, which can be dangerous if used irresponsibly.
Always be sure to avoid operating your Bluetti solar power generator in wet conditions. Make sure there is proper ventilation while using these generators, because obstructing the unit’s fans may cause serious damage.
FAQs
Absolutely! Not only will living off the grid be much easier, but you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint and helping protect our environment by using a portable solar power station instead of a gas-powered generator.
Bluetti recommends that each of our top five units is recharged every three to six months, to ensure longer battery life and a longer life cycle.
For all of their products, Bluetti recommends that you use at least 3 of their portable solar panels to charge your solar generator, depending on their OCV. The charge time will be slower if your solar panels have a lower OCV (i.e. 120W vs. 200W). But the more solar panels you connect, the faster your charge time will be!
For more information on buying a portable power station, check out our Ultimate Portable Battery Station Buying Guide.
Final Word
Bluetti Portable Solar Power Stations are incredibly popular for three reasons: durability, product quality for their prices, and portability. These solar power generators are built to last and will help you keep the lights on, whether that’s on your van life journey or during an emergency. Since our top five Bluetti power stations are suited to different needs, here are our top recommendations by using:
- For Camping: The Maxoak Bluetti AC50S Power Station
- For Emergencies at Home: Bluetti AC200P Portable Power Station
- For Traveling: The Maxoak Bluetti EB150 Portable Power Station
