10 Best Portable Power Station of 2024

Written by: - Garden Maintenance Expert

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The Best Portable Power Station

best portable power station
  1. Best portable power station overall - Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer

  2. Best for durability - POWEROAK Portable Power Station

  3. Best power station and solar panel - ALLPOWERS Portable Power Station

  4. Best for caravans and road trips - BLUETTI Portable Power Station

  5. Best for high power - EF EcoFlow DELTA Portable Power Station

  6. Best value for money - CTECHi Portable Power Station

  7. Best budget option - SinKeu Portable Power Station

  8. Best for portability - Powkey Portable Power Station

  9. Best for emergencies - GOLABS R150 Portable Power Station

  10. Best mid-range power station - SWAREY Portable Power Station

Reviews

Editors Choice

1. Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer [ SAVE 35% ]

Best portable power station overall

best portable power stations Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer
  • Input and output power on the display allows you to see how much power each device is using
  • Station can be charged while you are charging devices from it at the same time
  • Weighs just 3 kg so is very portable
  • All ports are clearly labelled making it very easy to use
  • Can be paired with a solar panel (not included) which enables it to be charged in three ways - wall outlet, car outlet and solar

  • Fan noise can be distracting
  • The solar panel won’t work if there’s any shadow covering it
Watts
200W
Voltage
230V
Weight
3kg
Power Outlets
4
Overall Score 4.6Read In-depth Review
Design
5
Performance
5
Features
4
Noise
4
Value for Money
5

The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer tops our list as the best portable power station for a number of reasons. This power station is extremely versatile and is able to power a wide range of devices, including laptops, tools and drones. 

The power station is designed for portability. It’s very compact, measuring 23 x 13.2 x 19.5 cm and it weighs just 3 kg. 

The smart LED display shows the remaining battery life. It also shows the input and output power, so you can make sure you don’t overload the machine. Each output is clearly labelled and easy to find. 

This power station is capable of powering up to four devices at the same time. It features: 1 x AC outlet (with a 230 V, 200 W output), 2 x USB-A ports and 1 x DC car port. It can be charged in three different ways using either a wall outlet, car outlet, or solar panels (though these need to be bought separately). 

Although this unit does run fairly quietly, the fan noise can be distracting. If you are taking this power station camping or using it in a bedroom, light sleepers may find it too noisy. 

Although this is not the most powerful unit featured here, it offers a good balance of functionality and affordability. It’s the best power station overall based on its price and versatility. It’s a great option to keep in the home in case of a power cut, to bring power to areas such as workshops or garages, or to take camping. 

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Runner Up

2. POWEROAK Portable Power Station

Best for durability

best portable power stations POWEROAK Portable Power Station
  • Impressive build quality designed to withstand regular use
  • Large number of outputs - enough to simultaneously charge up to 12 devices including laptops and smartphones
  • Clear indicator screen displaying battery life and power load
  • Can be recharged via wall outlets, car chargers, generators or solar panels

  • Built-in fan means that this power station doesn’t run silently
  • Remaining battery life is shown in 20% increments so it’s not clear exactly how much battery remains
  • The 3-pin sockets are at the bottom of the power station and it can be difficult to plug in a 3-pin plug if the power station is positioned a table
Watts
300W
Voltage
230V
Weight
6kg
Power Outlets
12
Overall Score 4.5
Design
5
Performance
4.5
Features
4.5
Noise
3.5
Value for Money
5

Just one glance at the POWEROAK Portable Power Station will tell you all you need to know about its durability. This tough unit has been designed to withstand regular use and is great for camping; plus, it’s capable of powering up to 12 devices simultaneously. 

The power station features: 2 x AC outputs (230 V, 300 W), 2 x CC 12 V/9 A car ports, 1 x 45 W USB-C, 2 x DC 12 V/3 A, 1 x wireless charging pad and 4 x 5 V USB -A. There are lots of ways to charge and power different devices.

It has a large 500 Wh battery capacity. In context, this allows it to charge a smartphone up to 42 times, power a mini fridge for over 10 hours, or power a router for 25 hours – perfect for weekends spent in the great outdoors!

There are four different ways to recharge this power station. You can use an AC adapter to charge the unit in just six hours, use a generator, use 12 V or 24 V car outlets, or use solar panels (sold separately). 

It features a clear LED screen and a sturdy carry handle so it’s practical to use and transport. There’s also an LED light, allowing it to double up as a torch. 

For anyone sensitive to noises, bear in mind that the built-in fan isn’t silent.

Overall, this is the best portable power station if you’re after a durable unit that will come in handy for outdoor adventures.

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Also Good

3. ALLPOWERS Portable Power Station

Best power station and solar panel

best portable power stations ALLPOWERS Portable Power Station
  • Solar panel included so no additional purchases required
  • When in direct sunlight, the solar panels can charge the station in around five hours
  • Lightweight at just under 4 kg, and easy to carry using the handle
  • Generator has a good build quality and feels very solid
  • Can help charge laptops and phones around the home as well as on trips

  • The built-in fan is audible
  • The solar panels do not charge well on cloudy days
Watts
300W
Voltage
220V
Weight
3.99 kg
Power Outlets
10
Overall Score 4.5
Design
4.5
Performance
4
Features
5
Noise
4.5
Value for Money
4.5

The ALLPOWERS Portable Power Station can be charged by solar power. And, unlike the other power stations featured on this list, it comes with the solar panels included.

The solar panel is 100 W, providing sustainable and affordable energy. It has an adjustable kickstand, so you can prop it up to catch the sun, and it’s waterproof too. It could be attached to your tent if you’re out camping.  On cloudy days, the solar panels don’t charge very well. But in full sun they can charge the power station in around five hours.

Solar isn’t your only option for recharging, though. The power station can also be charged using an AC wall outlet, USB-C charger, a 12 V car adapter or a combination of wall outlet and USB-C. 

This power station is suitable for devices that require under 300 W. It’s capable of powering up to 10 devices at the same time via several different methods. It features: 2 x AC 220 V sockets, 1 x 12 V car socket, 2 x DC 12 V ports, 3 x USB-A ports, 1 x USB-C port and 1 x wireless charging port.

This device is equipped with LED lights and can be used as a campsite lamp. The lights can even be turned on and off via a mobile app. There’s also an SOS mode that can assist in signalling for help in an emergency. 

All in all, this is the best portable power station if you want the option of charging via solar panels without making an additional purchase. It’s a useful power station overall, for home use as well as outdoor adventures.

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4. BLUETTI Portable Power Station[ SAVE 3% ]

Best for caravans and road trips

best portable power stations BLUETTI Portable Power Station
  • Can power appliances with up to 1000 W draw, such as electric cookers and microwaves
  • Can be used with up to 10 appliances at once
  • Wireless charger makes it easy to charge phones without needing to find cables
  • Charges very quickly - up to 80% in three hours
  • Easy to read how much power is being drawn

  • Not particularly lightweight at 9.7 kg
  • No exact battery percentage - you can only see bars of battery remaining in 20% increments
  • Display backlight turns off very quickly
Watts
1000W
Voltage
230V
Weight
9.7kg
Power Outlets
10
Overall Score 4.3
Design
4
Performance
4.5
Features
4
Noise
4.5
Value for Money
4.5

The BLUETTI Portable Power Station is a high capacity power station, capable of powering larger devices such as electric cookers, mini fridges or TVs. It’s therefore the best portable power station for caravans and road trips; there’s no need to settle for a warm beer just because you’re off-grid!

This power station has a maximum rated wattage of 1000 W and a 700 Wh capacity which enables it to power a number of devices at once. It’s capable of running a TV for 8 hours, powering a mini fridge for 11 hours and charging an iPhone up to 65 times. 

This station has everything you need in one unit, including: 2 x 1000 W AC outlets, 2 x 100 W mini USBs, 2 x 5 V USB-A outlets, 2 x 12 V DC 521 outlets and 1 x 12 V car port. There’s also a wireless charging point at the top for charging smartphones without scrabbling around for wires.

The batteries are lithium ion phosphate which charge quickly. This power station can charge from 0 to 80% within three hours. There are several ways to charge it as well. You can use an AC wall socket, 12 V or 24 V car port, or solar panels (not included).

The only real downside to this model is that it’s one of the heaviest options at 9.7 kg. While suitable for caravans and road trips, it wouldn’t be as practical for hiking. 

All things considered, this power station is one of the best on the market if it’s sheer power that you’re after. What it lacks in portability, it more than makes up for with its 1000 W capacity. 

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  • Charges very quickly - up to 80% in one hour
  • X-boost mode allows you to use high power devices like kettles
  • Huge capacity allows it to power mini fridges, dishwashers or ovens
  • Will run a small heater for approximately one hour
  • Robust and hardy construction

  • Reasonably heavy at 10.7 kg
Watts
1400W
Voltage
240V
Weight
10.7kg
Power Outlets
9
Overall Score 4.4
Design
4
Performance
5
Features
5
Noise
4
Value for Money
4

The EF EcoFlow DELTA Portable Power Station is perfect for high-power devices at once. It has a capacity of 882 Wh and a 1400 W output. This will allow you to power anything from dishwashers to fridges. 

Just some examples of what this power station can do include running a mini fridge for 12 hours, running a TV for 6 hours and charging a smartphone 62 times. It features nine outlets in total: 2 x AC outlets, 2 x USB-A ports, 1 x USB-C port, 1 x USB fast charge, 2 x DC5521 outlets and 1 x car port.

Uniquely, this power station also has an X-boost function, which allows it to power devices up to 2200 W, making it capable of boiling a kettle. 

Another key benefit of this power station is that it charges very quickly. It  can be charged using either a wall socket, solar panel or a car port. It charges from 0 to 100% in just 1.6 hours using a wall socket and 3-6 hours with a solar panel. However, it gets to 80% in under 1 hour, so it’ll be ready to use fairly quickly. 

The LED display is very clear, with the precise battery life listed. This power station also connects to a smartphone app that lets you monitor and control the power. 

Just bear in mind that it’s the heaviest option featured here, weighing 10.7 kg.

All in all, this is the best portable power station if you’re after high power. Plus, thanks to the ultra-fast charging, it should always be ready to use when you need it.

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  • Can reach full charge in 3.5 hours
  • A good value option for charging phones, laptops and batteries
  • Weighs just over 4 kg and has a large handle on top so is easy to transport
  • Well designed with with ports all at one end
  • Battery can last for a couple of weeks without recharging when used for phones/laptops

  • Not capable of powering anything that requires more than 320 W
  • Doesn’t support wireless charging
Watts
320W
Voltage
220V
Weight
4.1kg
Power Outlets
9
Overall Score 4.3
Design
4.5
Performance
4
Features
3.5
Noise
4.5
Value for Money
5

The CTECHi Portable Power Station offers good value for money. It combines a reasonable price tag with good functionality and battery life, striking a good balance overall. 

This power station has a reasonable capacity of 320 Wh. It can charge laptops, phones, camera batteries and other small appliances. When used daily in this way, it often won’t require charging for a couple of weeks. In terms of outputs, it features: 1 x AC port, 4 x DC ports, 2 x USB ports, 1 x QC3.0 USB port and 1 x PD fast-charging port.

This power station uses LifePO4 batteries, which are stable, robust and can handle voltage fluctuations. It can be recharged in five different ways, using an AC adapter, DC input, PD mode or solar panel. It can be fully charged in 3.5 hours.

For emergency use, there’s also a built-in LED light. The light has two modes; either high light which enables the power station to double up as a torch, or SOS mode which can be used to attract attention in emergencies. 

Overall, this is the best portable power station in terms of value for money. Sure, it lacks some of the power of larger units featured here, but it’s a great option if you only want to charge laptops, phones and batteries.

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7. SinKeu Portable Power Station

Best budget option

best portable power stations SinKeu Portable Power Station
  • Budget friendly but still features an AC socket (for appliances under 150 W)
  • Backlit display is clear and easy to read
  • Great for charging small items like phones, laptops and batteries
  • Built-in LED light with three lighting modes: torch, SOS and strobe
  • Easily fits in a backpack and is lightweight enough to carry

  • Doesn’t have enough capacity for large devices - designed instead for cameras, smartphones and lights
  • There is no weatherproofing so should be kept in protected, dry conditions
  • Display on the unit cannot be switched off so the light may disturb you while you’re sleeping
Watts
150W
Voltage
230V
Weight
1.88kg
Power Outlets
6
Overall Score 3.7
Design
4
Performance
3
Features
3
Noise
4
Value for Money
4.5

For small camping trips and light use, this budget-friendly SinKeu Portable Power Station is well worth considering. This affordable power station has a capacity of 99 Wh and can be used to charge smartphones, laptops and even mini fridges while you’re off-grid. It can power a mini fridge for up to two hours. 

Weighing just 1.88 kg, this unit is one of the lightest featured here. It’s suitable for anything from hiking in the great outdoors, to long journeys without power. Also, if there’s a power cut in your home, this will be a useful emergency back up. 

This power station features six outputs: 1 x 230 V AC power socket, 2 x 12 V DC ports, 2 x 5 V USB ports and 1 x USB-C port. It comes equipped with safety features such as over temperature protection, over power protection and overcurrent protection. 

It’s possible to charge in three different ways. Using a wall outlet, the station charges in around five hours. It can also be charged using a car port or solar panel. 

There’s also an LED light that can be used in the event of an emergency. It has a torch light, strobe and SOS mode so you can attract attention whether hiking, camping or fishing.

While this power station is certainly sturdy enough for the great outdoors, there’s no weatherproofing, so it shouldn’t be exposed to any water or bad weather. 

Overall, this is the best portable power station if you’re working to a budget. Although it doesn’t have the capacity for larger devices, it’ll be a great addition to any camping trip and can still support an AC plug. It can be used in emergencies and it’s exceptionally lightweight. 

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8. Powkey Portable Power Station

Best for portability

best portable power stations Powkey Portable Power Station
  • Inexpensive but can still be used for items up to 100 W
  • Very lightweight and compact. Weighs 1.5 kg and has a carry handle which makes it easy to take on the go
  • Shows battery as exact percentage as opposed to just bars
  • Enough battery to charge a phone approximately 10 times
  • Robust build makes it suitable for outdoor use - including hiking and camping trips

  • Maximum 100 W output is reasonably low and can only be used for phones, laptops, cameras etc.
  • Takes up to six hours to charge from empty
Watts
100W
Voltage
230V
Weight
1.5kg
Power Outlets
6
Overall Score 3.9
Design
5
Performance
3
Features
3
Noise
4.5
Value for Money
4

The lightest power station featured on this page, and undeniably the most portable, the Powkey Portable Power Station has been designed for life on the move. It weighs just 1.5 kg and is about the same size as a large book. 

With a capacity of 99 Wh, this portable device can be used to recharge phones, laptops and cameras when you’re in the great outdoors. It’s also great for emergencies, with an LED flashlight that can be used to attract attention. The light has three modes: torch, strobe and SOS, perfect for dark nights when you haven’t got any power. 

There are six outputs on this portable power station: 1 x DC output, 1 x AC output, 1 x USB-C fast charge and 3 x USB-A output. It can only be used to power items under 100 W, but it’s still a useful and affordable choice for camping and hiking. 

The LCD screen is easy to read and shows the exact battery percentage remaining. It also displays the AC output, DC output, USB output and charging input, so you’ll know you’re not overloading the battery. 

This unit can be charged in three ways, by using a wall outlet, car outlet or solar panel (not included). It’s not the quickest to charge, but it should reach full capacity in around 6 hours. 

While this power station doesn’t have a huge output, the portability means it’s one of the best for the job if you need reliable, backup power for phones and laptops. At just 1.5 kg, it makes a reassuring travel companion. 

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9. GOLABS R150 Portable Power Station

Best for emergencies

best portable power stations GOLABS R150 Portable Power Station
  • Great for charging from USB
  • The quick charge outlet can fully charge a USB-compatible laptop in approximately one hour
  • Holds battery power well
  • Compact build makes it suitable for taking on weekend trips away
  • Display is clear, easy to read and the backlight automatically dims after a couple of minutes

  • Modified sine wave instead of pure sine wave makes a sound when working
  • Instruction book is vague though thankfully the unit is easy to use
Watts
160W
Voltage
230V
Weight
2.4kg
Power Outlets
7
Overall Score 4.6
Design
4.5
Performance
4
Features
5
Noise
4.5
Value for Money
5

Many people invest in a power station for emergency use. The GOLABS R150 Portable Power Station is sturdy and a good choice for emergencies because it is reasonably priced, has a 204 Wh capacity and features a reliable LifePO4 battery.  

It’s small and portable, weighing just 2.4 kg with a sturdy handle on the top. Even so, it will still allow you to power iPhones, laptops and power tools. It’s also easy to use, with a clear display that lets you see the precise battery life remaining, so you’ll never be caught off guard. 

In terms of outputs, this power station features: 1 x 230 V AC output, 2 x DC outputs, 2 x USB outputs, 1 x PD 60 W output and 1 x PD 30 W output.

It charges quickly and can charge from a USB, AC adapter, car port or solar panel. This means it can always be on hand when needed.

There’s also an LED light that can be used in emergencies. The light has several settings with a high-brightness and low-brightness torch, flashing mode and an SOS sequence.

All in all, this is one of the best portable power stations if you’re after a backup unit that will be useful in emergencies. The battery is high quality, the charge time is impressive and the four LED light modes means it doubles up as a torch.

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10. SWAREY Portable Power Station

Best mid-range power station

best portable power stations SWAREY Portable Power Station
  • Small and lightweight with a carry handle and a bag included
  • LED light and SOS modes for emergency situations
  • Display gives you a clear idea of how long you can run devices for
  • Pure sine wave so runs quietly and doesn’t get hot while in use
  • Convenient build that is not too large or bulky

  • Only suitable for smaller items that require up to 500 W
Watts
500W
Voltage
230V
Weight
4kg
Power Outlets
8
Overall Score 4.4
Design
5
Performance
4
Features
4.5
Noise
4
Value for Money
4.5

The SWAREY Portable Power Station is a great mid-range power station, striking an excellent balance between size and power. It has a small, lightweight build, yet still boasts enough power to charge a smartphone 48 times or a laptop up to 8 times.

Weighing just 4 kg, this power station is easy to transport. It comes with a sturdy carry handle and a bag included, so it’s easy to take on the go, whether that’s tucked away in a backpack or sat on the back seat of your car. 

This station allows you to charge up to 8 devices at the same time and has a 518 Wh working capacity. It can be used with devices up to 500 W.

It’s equipped with: 1 x 500 W AC power socket, 1 x 30 W USB-C port, 2 x USB-A ports, 1 x QC3.0 port, 1 x car socket and 2 DC ports.

It can also be charged in three different ways; using a wall socket, car charger or 100 W solar panel. 

The display is clear and easy to read, giving you a good idea of how long you can power each device for, as well as the battery life. Other handy features include an LED light, complete with an SOS mode to help you in an emergency. 

The power station uses pure sine wave technology and runs very quietly. It’s therefore a great choice for night time or office environments. 

Overall, this is the best portable power station if you’re after a reliable mid-range option.

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Product Tester

Garden Maintenance Expert

Harry's Smart Buying Tips

Portable power stations are great to own whether you’re camping outdoors, hiking through the mountains, working off-grid or in need of emergency power during a power cut. 

  1. They differ from standard power stations because they are specifically designed for portability – the power stations featured on this list weigh a maximum of 10.7 kg, with most weighing just a couple of kilograms. 
  2. The size is also important. Compact power stations (no bigger than 30 x 30 cm) are easiest to fit in your car or a backpack. 
  3. For charging small devices, a power station with a capacity of up to 150 – 300 Wh will suffice. This can be used to charge laptops and phones during a power cut, for example. 
  4. Large devices like TVs and mini fridges will require a power station with a capacity of 400 – 500 Wh. Bear in mind that these are often heavier. 
  5. Models with a three pin AC power outlet will allow you to plug in a variety of devices.
  6. Take note of how your portable power station can be charged. Many can be charged using solar panels, but you’ll need to keep the weight of these in mind if you are planning on bringing them with you on trips away. Most can be charged using both a wall outlet and a car outlet

After comparing various portable power stations, it’s the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer that claims my top spot. This power station has a 500 W capacity which means it can be used to power laptops, power tools and drones. It’s easy to charge using solar panels. 

Compare Product Features

Use the dropdown to sort the table by the feature you want to see.

  • Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer
    best portable power stations Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer
    • 4.6
    • 200W
    • 230V
    • 3kg
    • 4
  • POWEROAK Portable Power Station
    best portable power stations POWEROAK Portable Power Station
    • 4.5
    • 300W
    • 230V
    • 6kg
    • 12
  • ALLPOWERS Portable Power Station
    best portable power stations ALLPOWERS Portable Power Station
    • 4.5
    • 300W
    • 220V
    • 3.99 kg
    • 10
  • BLUETTI Portable Power Station
    best portable power stations BLUETTI Portable Power Station
    • 4.3
    • 1000W
    • 230V
    • 9.7kg
    • 10
  • EF EcoFlow DELTA Portable Power Station
    best portable power stations EF EcoFlow DELTA Portable Power Station
    • 4.4
    • 1400W
    • 240V
    • 10.7kg
    • 9
  • CTECHi Portable Power Station
    best portable power stations CTECHi Portable Power Station
    • 4.3
    • 320W
    • 220V
    • 4.1kg
    • 9
  • SinKeu Portable Power Station
    best portable power stations SinKeu Portable Power Station
    • 3.7
    • 150W
    • 230V
    • 1.88kg
    • 6
  • Powkey Portable Power Station
    best portable power stations Powkey Portable Power Station
    • 3.9
    • 100W
    • 230V
    • 1.5kg
    • 6
  • GOLABS R150 Portable Power Station
    best portable power stations GOLABS R150 Portable Power Station
    • 4.6
    • 160W
    • 230V
    • 2.4kg
    • 7
  • SWAREY Portable Power Station
    best portable power stations SWAREY Portable Power Station
    • 4.4
    • 500W
    • 230V
    • 4kg
    • 8

How to Choose the Best Portable Power Station

A portable power station provides an easy way to bring instant power to a range of devices wherever you are. Whether you’re camping in the great outdoors or spending a little time working off-grid, portable power stations will ensure your gadgets and tools never run out of juice. 

While these little units are perfect for emergency power, there’s a range of factors to bear in mind before purchasing a portable power station. 

The following information will help you decide what to look for (and avoid) when it comes to choosing the best portable power station for you. 

The Benefits of Using a Portable Power Station

Portable power stations are extremely practical, handy for both everyday use and extra reassurance in emergency situations. 

  • They can be used to charge power tools when you’re working in an area without power
  • They can be used in caravans and camper vans to power larger items such as mini fridges, TVs or coffee machines
  • They can be taken on hikes or on camping trips to ensure you’re always able to charge your phone
  • They can be stored in the home and used to power lights in the event of a power cut
  • Those which charge using solar panels use renewable and clean energy
  • They can be for long train journeys or car trips to charge multiple laptops or smartphones at once – meaning all the family can have their devices powered
  • Can be stored in your car and used to charge your phone in case of a breakdown 
  • Allow you to charge your laptop wherever you are – meaning you can work in the garden, the park or on the beach
  • They can be used for garden parties to charge speakers, lighting or projectors when you don’t have a power source nearby 

Selecting the Right Capacity

The capacity of a portable power station is measured in watt hours, and determines how long your generator can power various devices on one charge. A higher battery capacity will directly impact the cost of the generator, as large lithium batteries are more expensive. 

Those with higher battery capacity are also likely to be heavier. While this isn’t always the case, it’s worth bearing in mind if you’re looking for a very high powered but portable power station. 

When choosing the capacity, decide what you want the generator for. If you only need a generator to keep your lamp or smartphone on during a power cut, you don’t need a particularly large battery capacity. 

For powering mini fridge, TVs, coffee machines or kettles for long periods of time in tents or caravans, you’ll need a generator with a capacity between 400 and 500 Wh. 

For off-grid work and powering small power tools, you may need a capacity of 500 Wh. 

Choosing the Right Output

You should be able to power a number of devices at once. 

The power stations featured on this page vary in size, from those with 6 outputs to the POWEROAK Portable Power Station which has 12 different outputs. 

To ensure your power station is as versatile as possible, opt for one with a variety of USB ports. This will allow you to charge a range of smaller devices including smartphones, laptops and speakers. 

For larger items, you’ll likely need a standard 110 V AC wall plug, as well as a standard car cigarette lighter. 

Some have wireless charging capabilities, which means you can simply lie your smartphone on top and it’ll charge. 

Methods of Recharging 

Most portable power stations will be able to be recharged in a couple of ways, but it’s worth looking at the charge time of the power station, as some can take hours to recharge from flat. 

Those that use solar power can be charged from the sun, and some power stations even come with a solar panel included. 

Bear in mind that this will substantially add to the weight of the unit, and solar panels can be bulky to carry around. If you’re spending the weekend in a caravan, this is a good option, not so much if you’re spending a few days hiking. 

Newer power stations should charge very quickly when plugged into a wall outlet, often in as little as 2 hours. If you’re heading off-grid for a few days, charge it up the night before and you should have enough power. 

Most can also be recharged using a car outlet. In some cases, this can be faster than plugging it into a wall outlet. 

Portability

While all the power stations featured on this page are ‘portable’, some are definitely easier to transport than others. 

They range in weight from 1.5 kg to 10.7 kg, and most come with a handle which makes them easier to carry.  

If you’re looking for a power station for camping trips or hikes, portability is more important. If you’re after a power station for home use, for instance if there’s a power cut, you can go for a heavier power station with a larger capacity. 

Portable Power Station FAQ

How long can a portable power station run? 

This depends on a range of factors. 

On a fully charged battery, the average power station can last between 3 and 13 hours – so there’s a lot of variation! 

The length of time it lasts will depend on the age of the power station, the type of battery, the size and the gadgets you are using. 

The capacity is measured in watt hours. This refers to how long the power station can charge a specific device on one charge. 

What’s the difference between a portable power station and a generator? 

Portable power stations and generators have a couple of key differences. 

Portable power stations have a rechargeable battery and a combination of outlets. This allows you to connect and power other devices. 

Generators on the other hand are devices that convert various energies into electricity. This could be gas, combustion or water flow. The energy is turned into electrical energy. 

In essence, portable generators create electrical power, while portable power stations simply store it. 

Generators tend to run at a much higher output, from around 1000 W to over 20,000 W. The higher the output, the larger the generator will be and the more fuel it will consume. 

There’s a couple more key differences. Portable power stations pose no fire hazard, produce very little noise and no CO emissions. Generators on the other hand, can be noisy, a fire risk and produce emissions. 

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