10 Best Solar Generators in 2024 – Expert Picks & Reviews

With an increasing number of people getting aware of the many benefits of the solar-powered, the market has experienced an upsurge of solar-powered kits, and this has made it extremely challenging to the common person to choose a solar generator that will provide value for their money.

This is the reason behind our compilation of the best solar power generator guide; we aim to help you make an informed choice in your next purchase. 

When handpicking the available options, we found out the ECOFLOW RIVER 500 Wattto be the best solar power inverter in the market.

Still, the other inverters on our list are an exceptional choice; only they cannot meet the value provided by ECOFLOW RIVER 500 Watt.

Comparison Table & Runners Up

In this comparison table below, we shall highlight the top 10 solar generators in the market, highlight their features, and price. This way, you'll be able to make a quick comparison of all the products and choose one that you think fits your needs.

Im​age

Product Name

Features

Price

Availability

Ecoflow River 500 Watt Solar Generator

ECOFLOW RIVER 500 Watt

Running output- 600W

Capacity- 500W

Weight- 11 pounds

Battery- 114Ah

Dimension-9.8 x 6.3 x 8.2 inches

$$$

Goal Zero Yeti 400 solar generator

Goal Zero Yeti 400 (428Wh)

Running output- 300W

Capacity- 400Wh

Weight- 29 Pounds

Battery-33Ah @ 12V

Dimension-8 x 10.25 x 8 in

$$$

Wegener Portable Solar Generator

Wegener Portable Solar Generator

Capacity- 10000h

Weight- 5.57 pounds

Battery-9Ah

Dimension-14.2 x 9.8 x 5.2 inches

$$$

Goal Zero Yeti 150 Portable Solar Generator

Goal Zero Yeti 150

Running Output- 150W

Capacity- 168Wh

Lead acid battery- 14Ah (12V)

Weight- 12 pounds

Dimensions -7.75 x 6.75 x 5.75 inches

$$$

paxcess solar generator

PAXCESS 100-Watt Portable Generator Power Station

Running output-100W

Capacity- 150Wh

Weight- 3.3 pounds

Battery- 40.8Ah

Dimension- 6.5 x 3.15 x 6.89 in

$$

Renogy Phoenix All in One Solar Generator kit

Renogy Phoenix 210Wh/150W Portable Generator

Running output-150W

Capacity- 210Wh

Battery-Lithium-Ion Battery (16Ah,14.8V) Weight-12.8

Dimension-13.8 x 13.1 x 3.9 inches

$$$

Jackery Portable Explorer 440 Solar Generator

Jackery Portable Power Station

Running output-300W

Capacity- 440Wh

Weight- 12.57lb

Battery-122.4ah

Dimension-11.81*9.53*7.6 inch

$$$

Goal Zero Yeti Solar Generator

Goal Zero Yeti 400

Running output- 300W

Capacity- 400Wh

Weight- 29 Pounds

Battery-33Ah @ 12V

Dimension-8 x 10.25 x 8 in

$$$

Audew 220Wh/60000mAh Solar Generator

Audew 220Wh/60000mAh

Capacity- 220Wh

Weight- 5.51 pounds

Battery- 60Ah

Dimension-13.39 x 7.87 x 5.12 in

$$$

Rockpals 300w Solar Generator

ROCKPALS 300W

Running output-300W

Capacity- 280Wh

Weight- 7.3 pounds

Battery- 75000mAh

Dimension-6.5 x 3.1 x 6.9 inches

$$$

Top 10: The Best Solar Genera​tors

Solar generators are redefining the term energy, as these devices will not only ensure that you have a reliable source of power, but it will also help in the reducing of carbon footprint.

A perfect addition to your camping, or household power needs, the best solar inverter, regardless of its size, is a perfect combination of portability, lightness, and durability, alongside competitive pricing.

Easily accessible, solar energy will help you build a better tomorrow, and you should, therefore, make the most out of this equipment.

To help you find the best one, we have created an exhaustive guide that reviews the top ten inverter generators in the market and includes a buyer's guide.

1. Goal Zero Yeti 150

The Yeti has everything desirable you would want in a solar generator. From performance, design to feature, this unit provides an excellent choice of power solution.

Quick Summary

  • 150Wh
  • Weight 12 pounds
  • 50W Monocrystalline Solar Panel-optional
Goal Zero Yeti 150 Portable Solar Generator

A small, portable, all-in-one power bank, the Yeti 150W is an ideal choice for charging phones, tablets, and small laptops.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

Compact Design

Sporting a user-friendly cuboidal design, the Yeti 150 weights at a mere 12 pounds, making it a lightweight solar generator.

The modest dimension of 7.75 x 6.75 x 5.75 inches underlines the compactness of this unit, and collectively, all these design features make this unit highly portable. As such, you can tuck this unit in your car's trunk or garage with ease.

Moreover, for enhanced portability, this unit comes with an integrated handle.

Convenience

Though the Yeti 150 is a solar inverter, it provides users with the convenience of charging. Here, you can use a plethora of ways to power this unit or the ultimate convenience. These charging options include recharging from the sun, by plugging the unit into the wall or using a 12V car adapter.

Performance

Sporting a lead acid battery with a 168Wh (12V, 14Ah) capacity, this fuel-free solar generator is powerful equipment capable of providing all the energy you need for your household, camping, or emergency.

Though compact, this plug-and-play mini-powerhouse will power a variety of your appliances, including the lighting system, phones, laptop, display monitors, CPAP, and more.

Multi-purpose

It’s quite inconveniencing to queue up your appliances for charging. However, with the Yeti, this is something you’ll never need to worry about, thanks to its multi-purpose nature.

Sporting a total of five receptacles (2 USB ports, 6mm port, 12 V carport, AC inverter, & Charging port), this unit can charge a total of 5 appliances simultaneously.

Quiet Operation

Unlike the conventional generators, the Yet 150 uses a 12V lead-acid battery, meaning it will allow you to charge your devices without generating noise or smoke pollution.

WHAT I LIKED

  • Lightweight
  • Compact
  • Versatile
  • Easy to use (LCD display)

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE

  • Not powerful

2. PAXCESS 100-Watt Portable Generator Power Station

Available in a beautiful and compact size, the PAXCESS 100-W is the ideal solution for all your household, outdoor and emergency power needs.

Quick Summary

  • 155Wh
  • Max AC output 100W
  • Max DC output 180W
paxcess solar generator

A powerful generator housed in a single and waterproof design, running out of power in your portable electronics should be least of your worries.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

Design

The Paxcess is sturdily built with all the components feeling premium. Though it does not feature any shockproof reinforcements, this unit can take a light drop on to the ground.

Sporting a modest dimension alongside a mere weight of 3 pounds, the Paxcess is small in size, and this makes it easy to carry as well as store.

Performance

Sure, with a running output of 100W, the Paxcess is on the lower side of the spectrum when it comes to power. 

However, you'll be surprised at how many appliances this unit can charge; here, you can charge many of your portable household devices, including laptops, tablets, mobile phones, and even TVs.

Better yet, with a battery power capacity of 40,800mAh, you’ll see where I’m coming from when I say the Paxcess is a heavy duty generator considering how many full charges you get.

But maybe, the most important performance feature of the Paxcess, or at least what we think is that this generator can power a CPAP machine using either the 12 V DC plug or 110V AC plug.

Convenient Charging

Like all the best solar generators on our list, the Paxcess will provide you with the ultimate convenience when it comes to charging this unit.

Here, you can charge this battery using a wall outlet, through a 12V car charger or a 50 solar panel

Multi-purpose

For the maximum versatility, the Paxcess will allow you come with a whopping seven receptacles that will allow you to power up to 7 appliances simultaneously.

The receptacles on this solar generator include:

  • Three 12V DC ports
  • Two 110AC power output
  • Two 5V USB ports

WHAT I LIKED

  • Lightweight
  • Compact
  • Versatile
  • Multipurpose

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE

  • Not powerful enough

3. Renogy Phoenix All in One Solar Generator Kit

Renogy Phoenix is praised as one of the best solar generators in the market, but will it live up to your expectations? Let’s find out.

Quick Summary

  • 210Wh of energy
  • Fast charging
  • Replaceable 16Ah Li-ion(NMC) battery
Renogy Phoenix All in One Solar Generator kit

Whether you are getting ready for a road trip, RVing or simply hanging out with friends on the weekend in the wilderness under the starts, the Renogy Phoenix is the right choice for you.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

Briefcase-Design

Available in a compact and smart suitcase design, alongside a gripped sturdy handle, this generator is designed to a traveler’s companion for both the mobile and off-grid applications as well as emergencies.

The compact design, alongside with a weight of less than 13 pounds makes this unit highly portable, and easy to store.

Performance

This all-in-one portable system holds a 16Ah lithium battery, with a performance of 210 watt-hours that will allow you to safely charge your devices with 150W running pure sine wave inverter.

Fast Charging

The Renogy comes with two 10W mono-crystalline panels, that provide a total wattage of 20W that can charge your battery in 15 hours.

What we liked about this generator is that it's expandable, meaning it can accommodate an extra 100W solar panel, and this will allow for a fast charging time in less than 2.5 hours.

Versatile

Aside from solar charging, this unit will allow you to use other means of charging such as through a wall outlet or your car inverter.

Whatever means you choose, you will enjoy the benefit of clean energy, that will not leave any carbon footprint.

Still, on versatility, I love this generator as it provides users with the ultimate convenience when it comes to powering appliances. Rather than wait in line for appliances to charge, this unit will allow you to power up to seven appliances simultaneously.

WHAT I LIKED

  • Lightweight
  • Briefcase design
  • Fast charging
  • Clean power

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE

  • Charging is a bit slow on a shade

4. Jackery Portable Explorer 440 Power Station

The new Jackery Explorer 440 is not only powerful but still very user-friendly. With a generous 440-WH energy storage, this unit is ideal for use straight out of the box.

Quick Summary

  • 440Wh
  • 12 pounds
  • Charged through a 100W solar panel
Jackery Portable Explorer 440 Solar Generator

Weighing at 12 pounds, the Jackery is among lightest generators in the market, making it a travel-friendly unit. And again, for generators with the market with the same power, it’s one of the lightest.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

Powerful Performance

Sporting a high capacity 440Wh, 122.4ah, the Explorer 440 offers robust performance for both indoor use and off-grid activities.

So, whether you are looking for the perfect generator for your household power requirements such as lighting or outdoor activities such as powering your RV, the Explorer 440 is the perfect power choice.

Portable

Weighing at 12 pounds, this unit can sit in the palm of your hand. Portability on this unit is further underlined by the presence of an easy to carry handle.

All-In-One Unit

Highly versatile, this unit offers various multi-charging options for the ultimate convenience.  Here, you get an AC outlet, 3 USB ports, a carport and a DC port.

Though the charging options on this model are quite limited, the unit still offers you the option of either choosing from a solar panel or wall outlet.

Extras

To make the Jackery more fulfilling, the manufacturer has included some pretty handy extra features.

Some of the features that we liked include; a flashlight which is helpful during dark, LED screen for displaying the performance metrics, and a switch indicator light for on/off.

A major highlight of the handy extras is the presence of safety features, including surge protection, temperature protection, voltage protection, and battery management system.

WHAT I LIKED

  • Compact
  • Powerful
  • Safety features

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE

  • Charging options are quite limited

5. Ecoflow River 500 Watt

Given the power rating, I expected the Ecoflow to be a little bigger, but was surprised to see; it weighs only 11 pounds; light and highly portable.

Quick Summary

  • 412Wh capacity
  • Peak 600W
  • Running 300W
  • LCD
Ecoflow River 500 Watt Solar Generator

Highly versatile, this powerful generator offers a multi-purpose approach to addressing all your power needs.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

Performance

With a rated power of 500W and a capacity of 412Wh, the Ecoflow is a huge capacity generator that can provide enough power to handle all your outdoor power needs.

Whether you need to charge your portable refrigerator, your drone, GoPro camera, or laptop, this unit is up to the task.

Compact and lightweight

Design-wise, this unit checks all the boxes for portability. With a modest weight of 11 pounds and a dimension of 9.8 x 6.3 x 8.2 inches, the Ecoflow is compact, and lightweight, thus easy to carry or stow away in your truck.

Versatile

Ecoflow will allow you to enjoy max power for a variety of appliances; whether looking a power source for your outdoor needs, for your household needs or emergency backup.

Better yet, it comes with the biggest largest amount of receptacles; 11 (4 USB, 2 USB C, 2 DC and a 12 V carport). Collectively, all these outlets go to underlining the versatility of this unit and providing you with the ultimate convenience.

Advanced Thermal Management System

Designed to deliver optimum electric generator performance in extreme conditions, you can still enjoy Ecoflow even in temperatures ranging from -4° to 140° Fahrenheit.

WHAT I LIKED

  • Powerful
  • Portable
  • Advanced thermal management
  • Smart tech for regulating charging

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE

  • If conditions go beyond -4 to 140 Fahrenheit operating range, the Ecoflow automatically shuts

6. Goal Zero Yeti 400

The new advanced features, alongside with a new lithium battery, makes the Goal Zero Yeti 400 power station worth looking at.

Quick Summary

  • Weight - 29 lbs
  • Dimensions- 10.25 x 8 x 8 inches
  • Wattage- 400W
Goal Zero Yeti Solar Generator

Utilizing the latest battery management system, the Yeti 400 makes up for a superb alternative power source for the extended trips.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

Performance

A major highlight on the performance is that this unit comes with a lithium battery, which has many advantaged over the older battery power backup. While this is a more expensive option that the competing options, it’s guaranteed to last and provide you with years of performance.

Portable Design

Sporting a cuboidal design, the Yeti 400 comes with a modern look. However, the center of attention remains its utility.

The Yeti 400 is not only lightweight, but it comes with an intuitive design, that is easy to use even for the first-timers.

Made for Outdoors

Rather than using flimsy plastics we have seen with other solar generators, this unit comes with a rugged shell.

While the shell will contribute to its weight, it comes with a large, curved metal handles for an easy grip.

Multi-purpose

For starters, the Yeti 400 will give you plenty of options when it comes to charging. Here, you can use a wall plug, a solar panel, or a cigarette lighter in your car.

Beyond the charging options, the Yeti comes with an array of outlets, which include two standard 120V outlets, three USB ports, and a pair of 12V connection for use in your vehicle.

WHAT I LIKED

  • Lithium battery
  • Long-lasting
  • Multi-purpose

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE

  • Heavy

7. Goal Zero Yeti 400 (428Wh) 

Easy to pack and ready to keep you powered, the Yeti 400 (428Wh) is a more powerful option that the Yeti 400 we had reviewed above.

Quick Summary

  • Cell Type: Li-ion NMC Pack
  • Capacity: 428Wh (10.8V, 39.6Ah)
  • Operates within: 32-104 F (0-40 C)
Goal Zero Yeti 400 solar generator

With an increased surge allowance and advanced battery protection, the Yeti 400 comes with a sleek design, making for lightweight and enormous power solution.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

Powerful Performance

Whether you`re planning to charge your laptop, phone or camera, this powerful unit, alongside its upgraded products, will ensure you have the power you need, when you need it, thanks to the high surge output of 12000W and a battery capacity of 39.6Ah.

Clean Power

Running on a pure sine waveform, this generator is ideal for powering all your sensitive equipment, including cameras, smartphones, CPAP machines, and display monitors.

Lithium Battery

Performance on this unit is underlined by the presence of replaceable lithium batteries, which will not only provide you with long run time but a longer shelf-life.

Easy To Use

Featuring a user-friendly LCD, the Yeti will allow you to get real-time metrics on your performance.

WHAT I LIKED

  • Lightweight
  • Compact
  • Heavy-duty
  • Extended shelf-life

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE

  • Can be quite problematic to use in the cold regions

8. Audew 220Wh/60000mAh

If safety is a top priority, we recommend that you go for Audew. This unit plays host to a plethora of safety features and quality components, making it an ideal choice for RVing, tailgating, and outdoor activities.

Quick Summary

  • Max 200W AC Power Inverter
  • Built-in battery management system
  • Corrosion resistant
Audew 220Wh/60000mAh Solar Generator

Featuring a built-in fan that protects the motor against overheating, you can be assured that this unit will serve you for a long time to come.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

Performance

With the ability to deliver 220wh and 60,000, Ah, the Audew is a powerful device enough to kick start all your electrical appliances.

Moreover, this unit can be used as a supplemental or emergency power alternative when the power goes out.

Multi-Purpose

Beyond the fact that the Audew will allow you to power a range of appliances ranging from your laptop, cameras to drones, this unit comes with multiple outlets, totaling to five, and allowing you to power up to 5 appliances simultaneously.

Pure Sine Technology

Running on a pure sine wave, this generator makes an inspired choice for running your sensitive electronics such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets.

Again, thanks to this power, the unit can adjust the speed of the motor accordingly, and this helps to avoid overheating.

Customizable

The Audew will allow you to customize your wall plug-in and change it according to your requirements to fit the prongs you have.

WHAT I LIKED

  • Twin charging (Solar + wall plug)
  • Surge protection
  • Battery management system

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE

  • Noisy

9. Wegener Portable Solar Generator

Though a budget option, the Wegner portable generator has a surprising array of features, and when you consider its capabilities, you will see this unit is a nice value.

Quick Summary

  • 9Ah 3.7 battery
  • Comes with a 6-watt solar panel
  • LED display
  • Flashlight
Wegener Portable Solar Generator

Highly portable, this unit, with a striking green color, will provide you with the option of powering a wide array of appliances.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

All-in-One

Unlike most of the generators on our list, the Wenger is an all-in-one solar generator that comes with all the complete set of all the necessary components to light to your world.

This unit, for instance, comes fully packaged with a solar panel, 3 LED lights, and a solar inverter.

Versatile

Widely applicable, this unit is ideal for use on various locations including the outdoor space, in your household as well as for emergency purposes.

Better yet, this unit comes with several outlets that will allow you to charge several appliances simultaneously.

Performance

Sure, the Wegner is not the most heavy-duty generator we have come across, and won't power the heavy-duty appliances or provide more power than you need for hiking, fishing or hunting, it's will still provide sufficient power to keep your lighting system on, power your fan and charge both your smartphone and laptop.

WHAT I LIKED

  • Versatile
  • Budget option
  • Comes with a complete set

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE

  • Not heavy duty

10. Rockpals 300w

The Rockpals is a medium-sized generator that is neither too big nor too small. With a battery capacity of 300W, and providing you with the option of charging it through a 12V adapter, wall plug or solar panel, the Rockpals is a convenient and powerful solar generator.

Quick Summary

  • 75Ah
  • 600 peak watt output
  • 12v charging
  • Pure sine wave
  • Two built-in flashlights
Rockpals 300w Solar Generator

Sporting a brilliant design, alongside with a lithium battery of 280Wh, Rockpals copies the design cues of the famous Goal Zero Yeti series.

WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?

Sturdy Build

Design-wise, the Rockpals is indeed handy, and compact. User can ideally use this unit for camping as well as an emergency back-up.

And owing to its sturdy build, alongside a strong carrying handle, users can take this device anywhere hassle-free.

Lithium-ion Portable Power

Unlike a majority of solar generators using lead acid batteries, Rockpals uses lithium-ion batteries for an enhanced power solution.

Better yet, the lithium-ion batteries are compact for their power size and easy to maintain compared to the lead battery acid.

With these batteries, you can comfortably use the Rockpals to perform a myriad of tasks including charging your tablet, inflating a camping mattress, charging your camera, and much more.

Safety

Rockpals features a comprehensive list of safety features that are all geared to guarantee the safety of your appliances.

Some of the safety hazards that this generator will protect you against include; overcharging, overcurrent, and short-circuiting.

Again, we love the fact that Rockpals comes with full RoHS certifications.

With this unit, you'll get peace of mind without having to worry about failed batteries, fires, or sparks.

WHAT I LIKED

  • Lightweight
  • Compact
  • Durable

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE

  • No solar panels included

Best Solar Generator Buyer’s Guide

In the article below, we shall look at some of the crucial factors to consider when choosing the ideal solar power generator. But before then, let’s look at the advantages of owning a solar powered generator.

5 Benefits of Using a Solar Powered Generator

1.Eco-Friendly

Unlike the conventional forms of generators which either use gas or propane resulting in the production of carbon, solar generators are indeed clean, and will not leave any carbon footprint.

2.Long-term Investment

A solar-powered generator will not require you to use any money to get fuel; after all, solar energy or rather light is given freely.

Therefore, regardless of how much your solar generator costs, you will realize it promotes long term money saving.

3.Great or Indoors

Pinging back on our first point on the issue of carbon footprint, solar generators do not emit any waste, and this makes them ideal for use indoors.

4.Quiet Operation

Secondly, most of the power generator will operate with a pin-drop silence, allowing you to use them while having a peace of mind away from the noise.

5.Ease of Use and Convenience

Finally, one a solar generator is set up, it will run for 24/7 without requiring any maintenance from you.

For as long as there’s sunlight, you’ll never have to worry about the performance of your solar powered generator.

Now, let’s look at how to choose the best solar generator for your power needs.

Things to Consider when Choosing a Solar Powered Generator

Types of solar panel

The first thing to consider when choosing a solar powered generator is the type of solar panel. The three primary types of panels to choose from include:

  • Mono-crystalline panels: They are the priciest, but they offer the highest quality. The two main benefits of these panels are that they yield the highest efficiency rate between 15-20% and can operate in extreme temperature conditions.
  • Polycrystalline panels: Operating at an efficiency rate of 13-16%, they are a bit lower in quality than the mono-crystalline and more budget-friendly, hence their popularity.
  • Thin Film panels- At the lowest rung, we have thin film panels. Generally, they are less efficient with an efficiency rating of 7-13% and will require more coverage area to compete with the above-mentioned panels. Tough cheap, I believe this is where they say you get what you pay for.

Battery Capacity

Second, in line from the solar panels are the batteries. When choosing your battery, check on its capacity, which is labeled as Watt-hour (Wh).

Before you choose a generator, you'll need to determine the wattage capacity of your appliances, and this way you'll get a generator that is ideal for your needs.

For instance, an iPhone requires about 5.5Wh, and an electric blanket roughly 220Wh. Assuming your unit has a capacity of 220Wh, you cannot charge both appliances simultaneously.

Ideally, you’ll want to purchase a generator that can withstand high wattage appliances.

Inverter Rating

The inverter rating, on the other hand, refers to the maximum amounts of watts that you can draw from your generator at any given time.

Depending on what you plan to use with your generator, you might need to go for a generator with a higher wattage rating.

However, understand that inverter size alone doesn't influence the power capabilities of your generator.

However, you need to understand that the performance of a generator isas a result of multiple features. For instance, it's useless to have an inverter with a rating of 1500W if you are using it on a battery with a 450W rating.

Ideally, most performance-oriented generators have a ratio of 1.5: 1 Wh/inverter rating.

Portability

Generally, most of the solar-powered generators are used on the outdoors for camping, tailgating, outdoor events, or RVing.

Therefore, you’ll need to pick one that is compact and lightweight. Better yet, ensure it has portability features such as handles, and wheels.

Extra

Purchasing a solar-powered generator is akin to purchasing a car. Though there are features that you do not "need," they are quite a handful and will promote convenience when operating the generator.

For instance, a solar generator with an LCD will allow easy monitoring of all the performance metrics.

Conclusion

Choosing a solar-powered battery for your power needs is the best decision you can ever make. These units, as we have seen, are extremely reliable, are eco-friendly, lightweight, and most importantly, they will provide you with the power you need for all your appliances.

However, with plenty of information out there, alongside conflicting information, it's always a challenge to choose the best solar generator for your needs. Gladly, we have brought you this comprehensive review guide that highlights the best options in the market.

Choosing any of the above solar inverters will guarantee you a remarkable experience.

David Hughes
 

Hey, I’m David Hughes - a free spirit with a passion for power tools blogging. With more than a decade in the construction field, my mission is to help the everyday workers realize their dream by sharing on creative ideas, tips, and reviewing products.

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