Portable solar panels have come a long way in the last decade, allowing outdoor enthusiasts, disaster preppers, and remote workers to harness the power of the sun anywhere. With lightweight designs, increased efficiency, and useful features, portable panels are extremely versatile for charging everything from smartphones to power stations.
In this expert guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to select the best portable solar solution. First, let‘s go over a brief history of the technology and how it works.
A Brief History of Portable Solar
Early solar panels, developed in the 1950s, were hardly portable. Weighing over 50 pounds, they were only practical for permanent installations. It wasn‘t until the 1990s that lightweight amorphous silicon solar cells made portables feasible. Outfitters like Voltaic Systems pioneered small panels and solar backpacks targeted toward outdoor adventurers in the early 2000s.
The rise of lithium batteries and portable power stations over the last decade created even more versatility in off-grid solar applications. Leading manufacturers like Renogy, Jackery, and Goal Zero now offer plug-and-play solar/battery combo kits, making living life off the grid easier than ever.
How Portable Solar Panels Work
Portable panels utilize solar photovoltaic cells made from silicon to convert sunlight into usable electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect. Electrical conductors on the cell gather the produced current. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels house the conductors behind glass in a protective casing. More flexible thin-film panels laminate them onto plastic sheets.
While less efficient per square foot than roof-mounted arrays, portable panels make up for it in versatility. Their foldable, lightweight designs allow easy transport and angling to catch peak sunlight throughout the day. Charge controllers regulate power flow to safely charge batteries and devices.
Now let‘s examine the critical features to evaluate when picking a portable solar solution for your needs.
Key Considerations When Selecting Portable Solar Panels
Intended Use
First, identify your likely applications. Will you need to charge small devices like phones and tablets or power banks? Or do you require higher outputs capable of running appliances? Portable solar generators with large built-in batteries offer the most versatility but with added weight.
Power Output
Pay attention to panel wattage ratings, which determine charging speed. For occasional smartphone charging, 20 to 50W suffices. 100W to 200W works well for drones, laptops, and large power banks. Running appliances like mini-fridges requires 200W+.
When sizing systems, remember output falls considerably in cloudy conditions.
Weight and Portability
Panel and battery weight directly impacts portability. The best backpacking models like the Goal Zero Nomad 20 strike an ideal balance at around 2 to 5 pounds. Larger foldable panels meant for car camping weigh 10 to 40 pounds. Consider how far you need to transport the system.
Durability
Assess panel casing and framing durability for your likely handling. While rigid aluminum or steel framing lasts longest, it adds weight. Backpackers often prefer lighter canvas or nylon cases. Handle any system gingerly regardless of casing type.
Special Features
Convenient features that enhance portable solar include multiple charge ports, stands or grommets for mounting, and displays showing output. Solar generators often integrate inverters, AC outlets, and extensive battery management. Ensure components match your power needs.
Next, let‘s review portable solar panels worth considering in 2023. We‘ll rate our top picks across four categories based on value, features, performance, and intended application.
The 5 Best Portable Solar Panels
Best Overall: Renogy 200W Portable Solar Panel
With robust output at a reasonable price point, we rate the Renogy 200W solar suitcase as the best overall portable solar panel for versatility.
The foldable monocrystalline panel outputs up to 200W, charging a 50Ah battery from zero to full in 3-4 hours in ideal conditions. The rugged canvas casing and adjustable aluminum stand withstand outdoor use. At 36 pounds, it strikes a fair balance for portability.
An included 20A Voyager charge controller efficiently regulates charging to batteries, safely handling up to 400W of panels. Large attached cables with alligator clamps make battery connections simple.
For under $500, you get a highly efficient solar/battery charging solution capable of meeting a range of remote power needs. The Renogy 200W suits RVs, boats, camping, households, and more.
Rating:
Value: 5/5
Features: 4/5
Performance: 5/5
Application: 5/5
Best High-Performance: Goal Zero Ranger 300
The foldable Goal Zero Ranger 300 steps up performance for heavy-duty off-grid use. The rugged monocrystalline panels produce up to 300W for fast battery charging. Integrated sensors and smart technology optimize efficiency in all conditions for 25% faster charging than the competition.
With tabless half-cells and advanced encapsulation, the Ranger 300 withstands harsh environments anywhere on Earth. The weather-resistant carrying case and kickstand position the panels at the optimal 60-degree tilt toward the sun.
At nearly 40 pounds, the Ranger isn‘t exactly lightweight. But its robust output can meet the needs of off-grid living quarters and critical job site equipment with the right battery setup.xF
The Ranger requires Goal Zero Yeti batteries and power stations for operation (additionally purchased). Expect to invest over $1,000 fully equipped, but you get superb performance.
Rating:
Value: 3/5
Features: 5/5
Performance: 5/5
Application: 4/5
Best Budget: ALLPOWERS 100W Foldable Solar Panel
For an affordable, portable option, we like the $120 ALLPOWERS 100W foldable panel paired with a separate battery and charge controller. The polycrystalline silicon cells hold up fine for casual use, producing up to 100W.
Weighing just 11 pounds, the panel conveniently folds into a compact carrying case. An included kickstand allows angling the panel for good sun exposure. The fabric exterior withstands light rain and wind.
A built-in junction box offers versatile charging options, supporting 12V batteries, 12-24V solar generators, or 5V USB devices directly. Connectors safely deliver 20A of current via the attached cables.
For budget-focused applications like phone charging, camping rigs, sheds, and emergency power, the ALLPOWERS 100W panel delivers ample capability without breaking your wallet. Just don‘t expect advanced features or conversion efficiency on par with premium models.
Rating:
Value: 5/5
Features: 3/5
Performance: 4/5
Application: 4/5
Best Solar Generator: Jackery Solar Generator 1000
The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 bundles an efficient 220W solar panel with a spacious 1000W power station full of ports. The foldable SolarSaga panel and Explorer 1000 station combine to create an ideal remote power source for van lifers, outdoor events, home backup, and more.
The Explorer 1000 houses a 1001Wh lithium battery capable of running most appliances and small devices. You get AC, DC, and USB ports delivering 1000W max. The intelligent management system protects your equipment.
It takes the 200W SolarSaga panel about 7 hours to fully charge the station at peak efficiency. The SolarSaga features durable canvas over the monocrystalline cells packaged in a protective suitcase-style case with handles.
At $1800, the Jackery Solar Generator commands a premium price. But you get incredible off-grid power versatility in a compact package weighing under 30 pounds combined.
Rating:
Value: 4/5
Features: 5/5
Performance: 5/5
Application: 5/5
Best Backpacking Panel: BigBlue 28W Solar Charger
When every ounce counts, the BigBlue 28W foldable solar panel provides essential charging capability weighing just 1.6 pounds. The ultra-portable design based on SunPower solar cells outputs up to 28 watts from the 10×6 inch panel.
The waterproof casing withstands outdoor abuse while four metal grommets allow creative mounting options. Included carabiners assist easy attachment on packs. Charge speeds power most phones in 2 hours and slim tablets and portable chargers within 6 hours.
We love the panels for hiking, paddling, and other human-powered adventure sports. Hook it to your pack during day hikes to keep camera batteries and GPS devices topped off. The $70 price also goes down easy for the minimalist-minded.
Just know that the slim BigBlue can‘t compete with larger panels driving more demanding loads. But for keeping essentials powered in the wilderness, it offers ample juice in an supremely packable form.
Rating:
Value: 5/5
Features: 4/5
Performance: 3/5
Application: 5/5
Compare the Top Portable Solar Panels
| Model | Power | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renogy 200W | 200W | 36lbs | $500 |
| Goal Zero Ranger 300 | 300W | 40lbs | $1000 |
| ALLPOWERS 100W | 100W | 11lbs | $120 |
| Jackery Solar Generator 1000 | 220W | 30lbs | $1800 |
| BigBlue 28W | 28W | 1.6lbs | $70 |
Tips for Using Portable Solar Effectively
Once you select the right portable solar solution, use these tips to maximize performance:
- Angle panels perfectly south toward the midday sun whenever possible.
- Track sunlight throughout day by adjusting tilt for most direct beams.
- Clean dust buildup on cells periodically with glass cleaner/soft cloth.
- Keep batteries warm (not freezing or excessively hot) to aid charging.
- Use charge controllers to prevent overcharging/damaging batteries.
- For generators, limit simultaneous device usage to not overdraw batteries.
Carefully positioning your panels and managing your batteries goes a long way toward getting the power you need off-grid.
Investing in a quality portable solar panel opens up a world of possibilities for powering life‘s adventures away from the grid. Evaluate your specific charging needs, then select a solar panel from our expert picks that fits the application. Use the right safety gear when handling electrical components. With smart solar solutions, reliable batteries, and sound operating practices, you‘ll enjoy bright days powered by the sun for years to come.
