Best Portable Solar Panels

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Portable solar panels have gained popularity lately, given how they are an excellent resource when you’re on the move.

Portable solar panels come in handy when you want to draw power when you’re off the grid so you can utilize your appliances and gadgets.

Read on for our expert reviews of the best portable solar panels available. Check the latest prices to ensure you get a great deal!

Our Top Picks

7 Best Portable Solar Panels

1. Jackery SolarSaga 100W Portable Solar Panel

The Jackery SolarSaga 100W Portable Solar Panel is an outstanding solution for those who want a top-tier power source that’s easy to utilize and continues to work well in the background. It has been engineered with power in mind and continues to deliver a constant stream of energy outdoors.

Features

100 Watts of Power

It is built on the idea of delivering 100 watts of power through the port. As a result, it is effective for a wide array of devices for charging capability and general efficiency. This makes it ideal for those who want consistent results over the short and long term.

Foldable Design

For those who are always on the go and want a portable solar panel, this offers a completely foldable design mechanism. This allows users to quickly tuck away the solar panel once they are done for the day. This allows for easier traveling when going from point A to point B.

Robust Stand

The stand is robust and will work well as soon as it is propped up. This makes it easier to position the solar panel for maximum energy production. It is a stand that is not only effective but consistent once set down.

Made of ETFE material

The ETFE material is a real winner and demonstrates the brand’s attention to detail. This ensures the solar power is refined and fully converted as needed for usable energy.

2. Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Off Grid Portable Foldable Solar Panel

The Renogy 100 Watt Solar Panel is focused on a straightforward solution with consistency in mind. It provides a great set of ports, refined energy and can work well in a long list of settings. This makes it a versatile, well-built option for those wanting to tap into the world of renewable energy.

Features

LCD Display

The display offers a good amount of information and is easy to read for regularly using it. This is essential when it comes to overall performance and efficiency. The attention to detail is impressive and allows for a more refined result that is perfect over the long term.

Waterproof Design

The waterproof design allows for a more robust experience when it comes to walking outdoors in moist conditions. Even when it is pouring down, the portable solar panel will not break down and/or create issues in terms of overall performance. This is great for those who want to spend time outdoors.

5-Stage Solar Charge Controller

The safety mechanism ensures users don’t end up overcharging devices and/or starting a fire due to sparks. With this in place, the panel continues to work well regardless of the external temperature.

500 Watts Per Day

It provides 500 watts of energy, and this is consistent power for regular usage. Users will feel in control of the power with this battery by their side.

3. Rockpals SP003 100W Foldable Solar Panel

The Rockpals SP003 Solar Panel is an industry-grade solution for those who want a good amount of power, reliability, and a power source that will not get in the way of their outdoor adventures. This is a perfect partner to have for any outdoor environment.

Features

Made of Oxford Cloth

The oxford cloth exterior makes sure any dirt and/or water coming the panel’s way doesn’t go all the way through. This ensures the solar panel isn’t compromised when used and can work even when it is raining outside. This works well for those going to be walking in a forest or somewhere outdoors all day long.

Smart Charging Technology

It offers smart charging technology, ensuring the unit provides maximum charging speed without overcharging. It also does well when it comes to adjusting based on which device needs more power when charging.

Foldable Design

The design is built around the idea of foldability, and the panels fold in to create a more portable unit. This is essential for those who will be placing the solar panel in their bag after using it.

Triple USB Ports

It comes with three active USB ports that can be used alone or together. These are compatible with a wide array of USB-powered devices and will work on little charge. This allows those devices to be charged without a problem.

4. PAXCESS 120W Portable Solar Panel

The PAXCESS 120W Portable Solar Panel is all about power, efficiency, and delivering a fast-paced solution for modern users. It provides an excellent amount of power and can charge rapidly in the sun allowing for a reasonable energy source during all times of the day.

Features

120 Watts of Power

It offers a clean 120 watts of power once the power has been generated. This ensures all devices that are being set up with the portable solar panel can be charged rapidly.

If the goal is to charge any USB-powered device, this solution provides an immediate source of 120 watts due to its strong battery.

Built-In Kickstand

It has a world-class kickstand that is made with reliability in mind. This means it can be set on various surfaces without falling over or not functioning the way it is supposed to. This can help maximize the solar panel’s performance and potential.

QC 3.0 Charging

The QC 3.0 charging mechanism is two times faster than alternatives on the market. This allows the portable solar panel to offer increased efficiency due to the built-in port. This is essential for anyone that is using the charging mechanism regularly.

Water-Resistant Design

The design is durable and perfect for anyone that is thinking about spending time outdoors. It doesn’t take a lot of time to wipe the solar panels since they remain structurally strong at all times.

5. Togo Power 120W Portable Foldable Solar Panel

The Togo Power 120W Solar Panel is established as a top-tier option for those wanting an on-the-go charging solution ready in a wide array of solutions. Once it is set up, this provides world-class energy and doesn’t get in the way of everything else happening outdoors.

Features

Smart Charging Technology

The smart charging technology ensures the power is refined and goes to the device as soon as it is connected. This allows for faster, simpler charging in line with what an individual needs when they are hoping to use the device quickly and safely.

Portable Design

The design is set up to make it easier to walk around with the portable solar panel in hand or a bag. Just fold it up and take it wherever everything else is going without finding a particular spot for it.

Waterproof

The exterior is robust and made with a purpose. This allows users to feel confident in taking the portable solar panel out for a walk without shielding it from precipitation. This is essential for those who want to use it outdoors.

120 Watts of Power

It is the power that matters the most, and this provides 120 watts of power. As a result, charging devices is a breeze and doesn’t take a long time to complete.

6. DOKIO 220 Watts Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel

The DOKIO 220 Watts Solar Panel is a charming solution for those who want access to solar energy without compromising performance or durability. This is an all-in-one solution with quality ports, fast charging, and a premium build good for all conditions.

Features

220 Watts of Power

It comes packed with 220 watts of power, ensuring users don’t have to worry about constantly recharging the solar panel to gain results. Instead, the power comes through as clean as it needs to and works well with many devices without compromising on their performance or how long the process lasts.

Dual USB Ports

It comes with two USB ports built to last and works well as soon as the device is set up. These USB ports are great for fast charging and tend to work well when used together. This allows for more flexibility when spending time outdoors all the time.

Solar Controller

The solar controller is all about regulating safety mechanisms within the solar panel. This allows devices to be charged using the panel without having to worry about overcharging and/or other safety risks associated with these types of options. It will immediately defuse the problem.

Smart 4-Stage PWM Charging

It comes equipped with four modes – Bulk, Boost, Float, and Equalization. These modes are perfect for those who want stabilized charging around the clock.

7. ECO-WORTHY 120W Foldable Solar Panel

The ECO-WORTHY 120W Solar Panel delivers on aesthetics, performance, and durability. It is a stellar option for those who want an easy-to-use solution when charging their USB-powered devices. It takes seconds to set up out of the box and ensures charging is never a concern again.

Features

12V Deep Cycle Battery

It comes equipped with a powerful 12V deep cycle battery that is easy to set up and converts energy quickly. For those who want to get started on charging their device, this is a battery that doesn’t let a person down in different types of outdoor situations, whether it’s in a crowded area or not.

Battery Charge Protection

It comes with built-in battery charge protection to ensure overcharging is not an issue. This is compliant with national and international regulations for safety, allowing users to use the solar panel without hesitation. It is built to last and doesn’t break down at the first sign of trouble due to this internal protection mechanism.

120 Watts of Power

With 120 watts of power, there is enough to charge multiple devices and feel good about how the solar panel will work throughout the day.

Tilting Kickstands

The kickstands are perfect for those who want to set up the solar panel and let it sit. They don’t get in the way and look easy on the eyes too.

Portable Solar Panel Buying Guide

Most outdoor adventures usually occur in remote locations where there’s no access to power. Going to the great outdoors doesn’t necessarily mean you have to disconnect from the outside world entirely.

You can get new experiences without having to sacrifice much of your typical living standards. Most travelers want to use their electronic devices to share their lives and experiences with loved ones or do their jobs remotely. But how do you do this when there’s no power coming from the grid? The answer is simple, use portable solar panels!

Portable solar panels have gained popularity lately, given how they are an excellent resource when you’re on the move. Portable solar panels do exactly what they are meant to do, deliver portable energy.

Key Takeaways

• Portable solar panels are a practical solution for outdoor enthusiasts who want to stay connected and power their devices in remote locations without access to the grid.
• Portable solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through photovoltaic cells, making them easy to set up and use for charging various electrical appliances.
• When choosing a portable solar panel, consider factors like the type of solar panel (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, or thin-film), power output, quick charging capability, efficiency, portability, durability, weather resistance, and warranty to meet your specific needs.

What Are Portable Solar Panels?

As the name suggests, portable solar panels are small panels that are easy to fit, use, and transported anywhere.

They are ideal if you travel infrequently and are on a budget. A portable solar panel kit usually comes included with additional tools such as an inverter, solar charge controller, cable, battery, storage case, battery and stand.

The inverter and the battery are the most important components because they will power your electrical devices when you’re off-grid. They take energy from the sun, which is utilized for charging your electrical appliances.

The installation process is not complicated, and they don’t need any additional wiring. You only need to position the solar panels in the sun’s direct path to enable the cable to transfer energy absorbed to the battery.

However, one downside of this appliance is its limited power output, making it ideal to power small appliances. Even so, the key feature of this appliance is its portability.

The solar panels come in different sizes, but even the largest one can fit into any car for transportation without taking too much space.

How Do Portable Solar Panels Work?

These solar panels work in the same manner as typical solar panels. They transform energy from the sun into electricity. They consist of photovoltaic solar cells.

Every panel is split into other smaller cells, where each cell consists of thin silicon layers. When sun rays strike the solar panel, photons are discharged, creating an electric sphere between silicon layers in every cell.

Metallic strips are connected to the solar panel to channel this electric domain and send it to the grid or battery, depending on what you want.

The charge controller regulates the power output while the inverter and battery are also connected to put away generated energy until it is needed.

What Are the Benefits of Portable Solar Panels?

If you’re still on the fence as to whether you should get a portable solar panel, here’s an explanation of why these devices are handy.

Firstly, they are super easy to use and set up. Portable solar panels come in essentially two sizes: the personal backpack carry variety and RV portable charging solar panels. What’s more, no assembly is needed.

Solar energy is free, renewable, and natural. All you require is sunlight exposure, and you’ll be able to utilize appliances and gadgets. Plus, you can take it anywhere you want and have your batteries charged anytime.

When you open the solar charging kit, you’ll only need it to face the sun. To ensure that it doesn’t fall in water or blow away, you’ll need to attach it to something. This way, you’ll be able to do other activities while the solar panel and the sun perform their role.

Unlike generators whose camping sites give restrictions because of the pollution and noise they emit, portable solar panels don’t have restrictions.

A quality portable solar panel provides you with the convenience to travel to unpowered and remote places without sacrificing things such as your smartphones, camping lights, fridge and other electrical devices.

What’s more, portable solar panels saving you from having to pay substantial fees for power. Most places that enable you to recharge your appliances and devices demand hefty fees.

To harness the full benefits that come with having a portable solar panel, it’s integral that you select the right solar panel that meets all your needs.

These days, people mainly depend on their gadgets fully charged and ready to use whenever. Because of this, it’s best to charge them while the sun is shining.

Before deciding which portable solar panel to go with, it’s best to do extensive research first to get your money’s worth. The price of portable solar panels ranges from tens of dollars to hundreds of dollars. Go with the one that offers the most advantages to you.

Where Can Portable Solar Panels Be Used?

Over the past few years, portable solar panels have received massive traction and have been used in various settings. When individuals go boating, hiking, or camping, they always want to stay connected to the network regardless of where they may be.

There are portable solar panels designs for RV, camping, home and caravan use, and the best thing is that you can use the same panel for all the settings.

What Are the Different Types of Portable Solar Panels?

You should note that not every solar panel functions the same. Your solar panel options fit into three categories of Monocrystalline (single-crystalline), polycrystalline (multi-crystalline), and thin-film (amorphous).

These solar panels contrast in their installations, the way they are made, costs, performance, and appearance. Depending on what you want it for, one option may be better than the other.

Here are the different types of portable solar panels to consider

Monocrystalline

This solar panel type is made of monocrystalline silicon and is the purest of the bunch. The high purity of the silicon makes this solar panel type have a high-efficiency rate, meaning you can acquire smaller panels without the power output getting compromised too much. The latest models can even go above 20%.

These panels are durable, have a high power output, last the longest, and occupy less space. Monocrystalline panels are most effective when positioned perpendicularly to the sun during ideal weather conditions.

Dust, dirt, and shade can make the circuit break down. These solar panels are more costly compared to their counterparts. Unlike polycrystalline panels, monocrystalline panels are less affected when exposed to high temperatures.

Polycrystalline

These panels are easily distinguishable; their angles aren’t cut, has squares, and features a blue, speckled appearance. They are built when raw silicon is melted, which is cheaper and faster than that used for making monocrystalline panels.

This results to lower efficiency (about 15%), reduced pricing, shorter lifespan, and lower space efficiency. Additionally, they are more affected when exposed to hot temperatures.

The differences between poly- and monocrystalline types of solar panels aren’t that much, and the final decision will depend on your exact situation.

Polycrystalline panels are built from multiple crystals. Although this can lead to slight internal energy loss, the upside is that these solar panels can be positioned at different angles.

They also perform well in warmer climates and lower light conditions. To compensate for the internal loss of energy, polycrystalline panels are slightly bigger compared to their counterparts.

Amorphous

Unlike crystalline solar cells, thin-film solar cells are manufactured using an entirely different process. Instead of making cells using blocks of silicon, the silicon is fitted in multiple thin layers on a surface to make the amorphous solar panel. They are more cost-effective to manufacture than crystalline cells.

Additionally, given how the photovoltaic material can be fitted on flexible material, the panels can be connected to anything.

The efficiency of these panels isn’t affected by dust, shading or high temperatures. However, they are less efficient compared to crystalline cells. Monocrystalline solar cells can give off four times more energy compared to amorphous panels of the same size. To make up for this, you’ll require more solar panels.

What Size and Wattage Portable Panels Do You Need?

Solar photovoltaic cells have various applications that can be as sophisticated as powering spaceships and as simple as installing portable energy for your roof or camping experience.

The sizes for every application differ and when it comes to solar energy, what applies on a smaller scale also applies on a bigger scale. In both cases, you’ll need to be aware of the estimated wattage your panel must have to meet your energy requirements.

Wattage is another phrase for power output. Current and voltage are the two variables in play here. The amount of wattage you require is estimated by multiplying current and voltage.

Every electrical appliance has a specific power consumption rate that’s usually displayed somewhere in the product’s labels. The power consumption of every device will need to be added to determine the minimum wattage solar panel you require.

Various environmental conditions affect solar power. Temperature, shadings, solar irradiance values, and amount of sunlight exposure can alter your solar panel’s power output and alter the charging speed of the charger.

If you want your solar panel to charge your electrical appliances within a day, get a solar panel size that a little above your demands.

How Do You Set up and Connect Your Portable Solar Panel?

You can charge various devices, but to do so, you must ensure you have set up everything correctly.

Take, for instance, a camping scenario. Your set up will include in this case will include a set of wires, an inverter, a charger controller, a battery pack, and a portable solar panel.

After establishing the power size, you can connect either in parallel or series depending on the charge controller’s voltage requirements and input current. A parallel connection will increase current, while a series connection will increase voltages.

When the terminal outputs are linked together, every terminal output will need to be connected to the charge controller input. This will control the solar panel’s charging speed and show whether the battery is charged to the maximum.

The terminal outputs will be connected from the controller to the storage device, confirming that the battery’s nominal voltage is identical to the voltage output. After the battery connection is complete, the battery-based inverter is wired to power AC loads.

Features to Look for in Portable Solar Panels

Power Output

This is the most integral feature of the entire solar panel system. It’s the amount of energy produced by a portable solar panel. Some panels have a high power output that even generates power for the whole house, while some can only power devices like smartphones. If you want to use a portable solar panel for camping reasons, go for one with a lower capacity.

Quick Charging

Buy a solar panel that provides you with excellent charging speed. Fast charging solar panels can your phone up to 20% in 10 minutes, which is 75% faster compared to when your phone is connected to a power outlet. You’ll just require a USB cable.

Efficiency

Solar panel efficiency is also another essential factor to consider. Efficiency refers to the conversion rate of solar to DC electricity. When the efficiency is high, you can have a smaller cell that produces optimum power. Higher efficiency means top performance, less surface area, and lower weight.

Portability

The whole reason for having a portable solar panel is so that you can carry it around wherever you go. In this case, you only need to ensure that it’s lightweight and doesn’t take up too much space.

Durability

The duration you stay with the device will determine if you got your money’s worth. Buy from top manufacturers if you want quality solar panels that guarantee high performance for years to come.

Weather Proof

The chances are that the solar panel will be exposed to various adverse weather conditions, including rain. To ensure that it still operates as needed, make sure the solar kit you acquire is weather-resistant.

Warranty

To save yourself from the stress that comes with getting faulty or defective products, make sure the portable solar panel you choose has a minimum warranty of 12 months.

Our Expertise in Solar Panels

At Solar Panels Network USA, we’re not just installers; we’re enthusiasts, researchers, and users of portable solar panels. Over the years, we’ve been at the forefront of solar technology, delving into the nuances and intricacies of various solar-powered gadgets. Our team has hands-on experience with a diverse range of portable solar panels, and we’ve witnessed the evolution of these devices from their inception to the advanced versions available today.

Why Trust Our Reviews?

• Hands-On Testing: Before drafting any review, our team dedicates weeks to testing portable solar panels rigorously. For this article, we installed and utilized each of these solar panels in various settings – from camping trips to emergency power needs, ensuring we thoroughly grasp their real-world performance.
• Continuous Learning: We regularly attend solar technology conferences, workshops, and seminars. This ongoing commitment to learning ensures that we remain up-to-date with the latest advancements in portable solar technology, allowing us to evaluate products against the most recent standards.
• Feedback Loop: Over time, we’ve cultivated a vibrant community of solar power enthusiasts. We frequently seek their input on products, guaranteeing that our reviews are not solely based on our own experiences but also reflect the broader community’s insights and satisfaction.
• Transparency: When we receive products for review from manufacturers, we uphold full transparency with our readers. In this article, some products were purchased by our team, while manufacturers sent others. Nevertheless, our reviews remain unbiased, focusing exclusively on the product’s performance.
• Decades of Experience: Collectively, our team boasts over two decades of experience in the solar industry. From comprehending the technical intricacies of solar cells to evaluating the design and functionality of portable solar panels, our expertise spans wide and deep.

In this article, we’ve combined our personal experiences, technical knowledge, and feedback from our community to provide you with comprehensive reviews of the best portable solar panels for 2024. We firmly believe that our expertise, coupled with our unwavering commitment to transparency and continuous learning, establishes us as a dependable source for portable solar panel reviews.

Conclusion

Portable solar panels come in handy when you want to draw power when you’re off the grid.

By following the guide above, you’ll be in a better position of choosing the best portable solar panel for your needs.