Our takeaway? It’s a nice size portable generator with plenty of outputs for your typical digital nomad. Keep reading to see our hands on tests to how it compares to others in its class.

Why Review Power Stations?

As our travels have slowed down over the last few years due to pandemics and high school/university chaos, we’ve camped more, and dome more local day trips and random home projects. This has lead to us experimenting with solar power and energy storage solutions, with a possible van life project somewhere in our future when our kids go off on their own adventures and it’s just Micki and I again.

Check prices for the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 on their website.

Shop the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 on Amazon.

The nice part about this quieter, travel-free time is that it’s given us a chance to test out a variety of portable power stations, and lets us see what makes one more ideal than the others firsthand.

So, stay with us as we personally check out the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 with this real world, hands on review and discover everything it can do as well as what it can’t.

VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 Review

Coming in at 1548Wh, the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 pure sine wave portable power pack should have enough energy to get most people through the day, whether they’re using it for camping, or working on a job site. It should have enough juice to even let you or blend smoothies (or a margarita) on the patio at the minimalist log cabin you rented for the weekend. (What, you don’t travel with a blender? How uncouth of you!)

Seriously though, the FlashSpeed 1500 is a nice blend of just enough power, but not too much as with these long life LifePO4 batteries, every extra Watt hour equals extra weight to carry. At 18.83kg (or 41.5lbs), this VTOMAN isn’t the lightest power pack we’ve seen, but it seems in line with others we’ve recently reviewed for its Wh to weight ratio.

While the FlashSpeed 1500 is primarily intended for loads under 1500W, it can actually handle certain devices up to 3000W with VTOMAN’s V-Beyond technology. While we’ve only tested it up to 1800W, the V-Beyond technology is primarily designed for resistive loads like coffee makers, space heaters, lights, toasters and even ovens.

We haven’t seen many other power generators touting this ability, but it’s a nice bonus if you find 1500W is on the smaller side, but don’t often use devices that exceed that wattage. That said, running it at these higher wattages is likely to drain the battery quickly.

VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 Charging abilities

One of the greatest strengths of the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 is its quick-charge ability. At only one hour from empty to full, the FlashSpeed 1500 is one of the fastest charging portable power generators we’ve reviewed so far. Having tested it from empty to full, it really does take only take an hour or so to charge. For the record, we saw it pull up to 1620w with the included power cable when charging.

That said, this does come at the cost of loud fan speed noise when plugged in. The fan helps keep it cool while recharging and, while we don’t own a professional sound meter to get a more precise reading, when fully charging, we were often pushing over 70db with our phone only a foot from the fan.

However, no one is likely running it on the table like we were for this test. Also, its fan noise and not motor noise so outdoors it would get drowned out much quicker and even indoors the sound dropped off markedly even a few feet from the device.

Thankfully, once the FlashSpeed 1500 is fully charged, the fan noise does drop down to almost nothing. Even when using it to power other devices, it’s almost silent except when pushing it over 1000w. If you’re running a device over that threshold, the fan (and the resulting noise) will likely be noticeable. Hopefully you’re blending drinks by this point and not caring regardless.

No Power Brick on the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500

Another really nice thing about the FlashSpeed 1500 is the lack of a huge power brick when charging. It just uses a straight power cable, which fits nicely into the top mounted compartment of the device. This makes transporting the power station easier, plus there’s less danger of losing the power brick or forgetting it at home accidently. (Something we’ll never admit to having done…)

We actually go back and forth on not having a power brick is always a positive. If you’re primarily recharging by solar and there’s no power brick, then that means the power brick is incorporated into the power station itself, which adds both extra weight and size to the device. So, when lugging it around, rather than leaving the power brick at home or in the car, you carry that extra weight with you. Conversely, if you primarily charge the device via the wall plug, having no extra parts is a huge plus regardless of the additional bulk.

VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 Solar Power

Speaking of solar, the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 battery powered solar generator can handle 400W of solar input at a time. When combined with plugging it in via the wall, that can drop your recharge time down to 45 minutes, which is ludicrously fast for a device this size.

While we’ve seen plenty of these with lower total solar input and lately a few with a lot more, the truth is 400W is a solid amount for a power generator of this level. Those running more solar wattage than this are likely using it to power larger installations, which likely means they need more Wh than this device can produce, short of coupling it with the additional battery.

Oh yeah, did I mention you can double your total Wh to 3096Wh with the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 Extra Battery? We don’t have the extra battery so can’t say for sure how well it works with this device, but we’re guessing it works just fine and is cheaper than buying another full system. It can also be recharged simultaneously with the power station.

While it does increase the overall price, it might be an option for you if you feel you need more Wh than the standard 1548Wh this VTOMAN provides. It can be bought later if you feel you need it.

Also to note, the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 can only support the single extra battery and more can’t be daisy chained to give even longer run times. It also doesn’t change the default 1500W power limit, just the run time.

VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 Ins and Outs

The FlashSpeed 1500 comes with numerous outputs including 4 standard USB A outputs (3 at 5v/2.4A and a single quick charge), 2 USB C ports which are PD100W (so can even direct charge your new laptop), 3x 110v 1500W ports (with 3000W surge capacity), 2x 12v 20A DC5521 output ports (5.5mm x 2.1mm, which will work with many CPAP devices)and a single 12v 20A car lighter port which is quite handy if you happen to own an electrical 12v cooler or a 12v pump for filling up your SUP or inflatables like we do.

For inputs, the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 has the 110V one hour quick charge we’ve already touched upon, as well as the standard Anderson style plug for accepting up to 400W of 30 to 60V solar power. There’s also a DC 12-20V input that can handle up to 200W of input.

A nice bonus is that you can use all three (solar, wall, and DC input) at the same time to charge it from zero to 100% in 45 minutes! We tested it with a 200W solar panel at the same time as the wall plug and can confirm that it charges fast.

An interesting addition of the FlashSpeed 1500 is the ability to jump start your car. While there is no information in the included manual about these ports, it’s a cool addition I haven’t seen on power stations of this size and hope to find more information about it later.

Finally, the FlashSpeed 1500 includes a large rear LED light that has three different brightness levels, a strobe light and SOS function. The LEDs make for a great light around the campsite at night, when tailgating to games with the crew, or more boringly, working later at night.

What does the FlashSPeed 1500 come with?

In the box, you get the FlashSpeed 1500, a manual, some VTOMAN stickers, the power cable, a car lighter port cable, a USB C to USB C cable as well as a traditional USB A to USB C cable.

VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 UPS and Downs (see what I did there, lol?)

One of the nicer features of the FlashSpeed 1500 is that all the output ports also support pass-through charging. This is a great bonus as you can leave your device plugged into the power generator while topping it up and even use the FlashSpeed 1500 as an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)in case of electrical power failure.

The VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 as a UPS

The advertised drop time of 10ms (16ms is what a typical ATX computer PSU is rated for), this should keep any device you have plugged into it running nicely even when the house power shuts down. While not every battery power station has this, it’s definitely a big plus for having it around the house in case of emergencies.

One of the negatives about using it as a UPS is that the fan runs occasionally as the unit needs to top itself up. I would never recommend it in the bedroom for this reason, but in an office it’s not intolerable and reminds me of loud bathroom fan.

Charging Protection and Lifespan

As to charging protection, the FlashSpeed 1500 itself includes 10 kinds of charging protection from over charge protection to over discharge protection as well as the important over current protection. With the newer LiFePO4 battery, you also get 3000+ cycle life charges (that means empty to full) before it gets down to 80% of its original capacity).

How long can the FlashSpeed 1500 last?

In short, you can charge this thing every day for 8.5 years and it will still likely power you through the day. If using it only on weekends or in the summers, you could literally get over 25 years of use with this. If you also couple it with a solar panel, all that power can be free.

VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 Review Summary

We can see why the VTOMAN brand is popular with the van life crowd. The FlashSpeed 1500 is easily stackable and the top features a nice little holder for the cables. It doesn’t include a wireless charging pad. You can also power most electrical tools or a blender for a delicious smoothie.

At 1500Wh, the VTOMAN FlashSpeed is a nice blend of size to weight to power ratio, however if you’re looking for longer run times you can add the extra battery. Those hoping to power larger devices for longer may want to check out one of VTOMAN’s larger offerings, though.

The power generator itself is sleek and has nice carrying handles. All the inputs and outputs are in the front so they’re easy to access and see. Display seems bright and the buttons to turn on the various outputs seem to press nicely. We do miss the included App and Bluetooth support some other power stations include, however it’s not a game breaker for us.

We did find it quite loud when wall charging so that’s a negative, but thankfully it quiet downs once it reaches full power. It would be nice to have a slower eco/quiet mode option for wall charging if not in a rush, but that one hour total charge time is tough to complain about. It’s fast and perfect if you’re out camping and need to give it a quick top up someplace if there’s a place to do so. Otherwise, solar takes only six hours or so at 400W.

When being used, the fans are audible, but not annoyingly so, and still quieter than a traditional gas generator even when the fans come on at higher wattages. This means you could easily use it all day in a campsite and not annoy all your neighbors. It also doesn’t get that loud when charging up via solar, so that’s an extra star for free power abilities right there.

VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 Price

It seems that there’s always a sale on the VTOMAN, which we really appreciate!

See the price on the VTOMAN website.

See prices on Amazon.

Disclosure: VTOMAN provided a FlashSpeed 1500 for evaluation purposes, however they had zero input into this review.

Other awesome articles:

• 27 Helpful Tips for How to Travel More
• Essential Guide To Planning Your First Campervan Trip
• The 10 Best Road Trips in British Columbia, Canada

To start, let’s break down how this eSIM can make your travel life easier and your wallet happier.

Why use an eSIM?

Think of an eSIM as your globe-trotting sidekick. Affordable? Check. Reliable? Double-check. An eSIM is perfect for sending beach selfies to friends or giving you reliable data so you don’t get lost in a new city.

Curious? See Maya eSIM plans and prices here.

Say goodbye to crazy roaming fees, the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards, trying to find free public Wi-Fi, or playing the not-so-fun game of ‘Will my SIM card work here?‘ with network compatibility.

And here’s the cool part: Using an eSIM means you can snag sweet data deals and give roaming charges the boot. Travel data? Sorted!

Maya eSIM Review

In this Maya eSIM review, we test the Maya eSIM ourselves and we also look at Maya eSIM data plans so that you can see if it’s a good choice for you.

Let’s get right into it!

What is Maya mobile?

Maya Mobile is a US-based mobile data company, under the umbrella of Maya Virtual, Inc., USA Corporation #5906164 (Delaware), based in Delaware, USA.

Is your phone compatible with a Maya eSIM?

Alright, gadget lovers, listen up! Here’s the scoop on which devices are compatible with an eSIM. Got a device that’s not on our list? Sorry, that means it’s a no-go for Maya Mobile eSIM packages.

Check if your phone is compatible with a Maya eSIM here.

And don’t forget this crucial bit: Your device needs to be totally unlocked and free from those pesky carrier restrictions to use any eSIM and that includes the Maya eSIM.

You can also use a Maya eSIM with compatible smart watches, tablets, and laptops!

Check if your smart watch, tablet, or laptop is compatible with a Maya eSIM.

How to get an Maya eSIM

Getting a Maya eSIM is a simple process that’s done entirely online.

Here’s the deal with eSIM installation: It’s doesn’t kick your current phone plan to the curb. Instead, it’s added as secondary data plan. The best part? You’re the boss – turn it on or off whenever you like. Easy-peasy!

What eSIMs does Maya offer?

You can choose a Maya eSIM plan with either a monthly unlimited or prepaid eSIM plan in the region where you need data.

How much does a Maya eSIM cost?

The cost of your Maya eSIM depends on the specific plan you get. There are 194 destinations to choose from. You can also get regional eSIM plans for the USA, Europe, Asia, South America and the Caribbean.

See Maya eSIM plans and prices here.

Here are a few plans and prices to give you a feel for Maya’s prices:

• USA unlimited 5 day data pass $19 USD
• USA unlimited 30 day data pass $59 USD
• Europe unlimited 10 day pass $34 USD
• Europe unlimited 30 day pass $59 USD

Is the Maya eSIM unlimited internet speed capped?

Yes, the unlimited plans are capped. The most affordable USA 5 day unlimited plan ($19 USD) has the first 2 GB of daily high speed data, and after that data is capped at Unlimited LTE data at 1Mbps.

Maya eSIM Canada prices

Since we’re in Canada right now, we looked at the Canadian eSIM plans. Any Canadian will tell you that Canada’s mobile and data plans are awfully expensive!

The most affordable Canadian plan was the 5 day 1 GB data pass for $7 USD.

The most expensive Canadian plan was the 30 day unlimited Max plan for $219 USD. What’s cool about this plan is that it includes a Wi-Fi hotspot, making it fantastic for a group. The data in the plan is capped – after the first 5 GB of daily high speed data, further use is unlimited LTE data at 1Mbps.

Where does the Maya eSIM have coverage?

Wondering where the Maya eSIM works? You can get a Maya eSIM in 194 destinations around the world.

Here’s a helpful map of Maya eSIM coverage.

How to activate your eSIM

Once you’ve purchased your eSIM, here’s the process:

• a QR code is delivered to your email
• you scan the QR code to your device, and follow the email instructions to install the eSIM to your phone
• connect to your Maya mobile internet automatically

I tried the Maya eSIM, and here’s what I thought

Maya says that it should only take five minutes to set up your travel eSIM, so we put it to the test.

Our policy is that we need to try every product we review, to give a personal, hands-on look at how they work in the real world. No product, no review. Simple.

To trial the Maya eSIM, I got a 10 GB Canada plan.

Their website says that installing the eSIM is as easy as scanning a QR code, and following the prompts to connect your Maya eSIM automatically, but is it really that easy?

Spoiler: Well, it’s not quite that simple, but it is pretty seamless!

As soon I got the email confirming my Maya eSIM email, I opened the email on my laptop, and scanned the QR code with the camera app on my phone. A prompt came up in my camera app, asking me to Add plan to phone. I clicked on that, and the eSIM started installing automatically.

Tip! If you can’t scan a QR code, or want to activate using a manual code, just log in to your Maya Mobile account and click to Install your eSIM plan.

After that, I followed the instructions in the email, and enabled Data Roaming. On my Android Samsung Galaxy phone, I found that in Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks.

After that, I activated the Maya eSIM, and clicked the setting to make it my primary SIM card (for me, on my Android Galaxy phone, that was in Settings > Connections > SIM Manager).

How long does it take to activate your plan?

And boom, my eSIM was installed and ready to use. The whole installation process took less than five minutes.

To be fair, because the eSIM was activated in Canada, and anything related to Canadian mobile carriers is annoying (if you’re Canadian, you know), there was one extra manual step (which you probably won’t need to deal with in other destinations). You’ll likely just skip this step, but I had to go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks and edit the Access Point Names, which only took an extra minute.

After that, I followed the instructions in the email and restarted my phone. It did take about 20 minutes for the data to start working after that, but that’s just something you have to deal with on any SIM activation here in Canada (and maybe in other places).

And I was up and running with lightning fast 5G data!

How fast is internet on the Maya eSIM?

I ran a speed test immediately, and my download data speed with the Maya eSIM was 31.3 Mbps, which is pretty good! I really wasn’t expecting it to be that fast!

Can I add multiple plans on one eSIM?

Yes! Maya Mobile eSIMs let you mix and match data plans across different countries or regions. The plans have an expiry date, but the eSIM it stays on your device.

Want to upgrade or change your plan?

Need a plan switch-up or more data?

No sweat. Hop into your Maya Mobile Account, and tweak your plan or data with a few clicks.

Maya eSIM: My final verdict

So what did I think of the Maya eSIM? I really liked that it was a US-based company to begin with.

In my test, the eSIM installed quickly and with no hassle, and the speed was quick (5G!).

Let’s look a little closer at the Maya eSIM, highlighting the pros and cons to give you a clear picture of what to expect:

Pros:

1. Global Connectivity: With Maya Mobile eSIM, you can be connected in 194 countries.
2. Flexible Plans: Whether you need a quick data fix or unlimited surfing, Maya offers a variety of plans.
3. Compatibility with New Devices: If you have a newer phone model, chances are it’s compatible with Maya eSIM, making it a convenient choice.
4. Easy Setup: Getting started with Maya eSIM is a breeze. In our test, it took about five minutes to install the eSIM to our device.
5. No SIM Needed: No physical SIM card to hassle with so less chance of losing my main SIM card or even needing to ever remove my original SIM card or go looking for a paperclip to open my SIM tray. Quick to enable or disable.

Cons:

1. Limited Device Compatibility: Older phones might not play well with eSIM technology. So, if you’re not sporting a newer model, you might need to check compatibility first, but that’s going to be true of any eSIM.
2. Variable Coverage and Speed: Since Maya depends on local carriers, your internet experience might vary. In some places, it’ll be smooth; in others, not so much, but again, that’s going to be true of any company and speeds are carrier dependent, not due to a eSIM.
3. Customer Support Channels: Need help? You’ll rely on emails and app messages, as Maya doesn’t have direct phone support or live chat options.

Do I recommend a Maya eSIM?

Overall, I’m quite happy with my Maya eSIM. Installation and activation was quick and easy, and I have fast, realizable data. To me, that’s what matters.

See Maya eSIM plans and prices here.

In a nutshell, Maya eSIM offers good variety of data plans in 194 destinations, and user-friendly features, making it a strong contender for travelers.

Portable power stations are increasingly popular for their versatility and convenience. They are essential for off-grid lifestyles, camping, road trips, and powering tools in areas without electrical outlets. Many people also use them as a backup or for emergencies during power outages. The BLUETTI AC200L stands out for its fast charging via wall or solar panels. It has plenty of ports and outlets to accommodate different devices, and it has demonstrated consistent, reliable performance in our use.

At its core lies a hefty 2,048Wh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) battery coupled with a robust 2400W AC inverter, ready to take on high-demand appliances and sensitive electronics alike. From powering heaters and refrigerators to keeping laptops and smartphones charged, this unit doesn’t flinch.

It’s particularly useful during power outages, outdoor excursions, and events like festivals, with the bonus ability to harness up to 1200W from solar panels.

Equipped with an industry-leading battery and an advanced Battery Management System (BMS), the AC200L promises durability and safety.

While it’s an investment, its performance justifies the price tag.

In this honest review, I put it through its paces. Follow the link below for the current price and let’s delve into what the AC200L has to offer.

See BLUETTI AC200L price.

What Comes in the Box

Upon unboxing the BLUETTI AC200L power station, you’ll find everything needed to get started with off-grid power or to ensure you’re prepared for any power outages. Here’s what’s included:

• AC200L Power Station: The central unit, a robust solar generator.
• AC Charging Cable: For charging the power station from a standard electrical outlet.
• Solar Charging Cable: Allows you to harness solar power to charge the unit.
• Car Charging Cable: Enables charging from your vehicle’s cigarette lighter port.
• DC Input Cable: For connecting to various DC power sources.
• Cable Storage Bag: To neatly store all cables when not in use.
• User Manual: Detailed instructions and information for safe operation and maintenance.

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

One of the things I was most excited to see in the AC200L’s capabilities is that it can function as an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), providing a seamless transition during power outages.

Here in British Columbia, we get power outages a few times a year. In our area, we can get heavy snowfall in the winter, and heat in the summer can easily reach over 100 degrees.

Our risk for power going out is reasonably high. When the power’s out, we can’t work, meaning that we lose income, making an uninterrupted power supply for our home office essential.

With a swift switching time of within 20 milliseconds, the BLUETTI AC200L’s UPS is quick enough to prevent shutdowns of most sensitive electronics, which typically can handle brief interruptions of up to several tens of milliseconds.

This UPS capability ensures that devices like computers, networking equipment, and other critical appliances continue to operate without interruption during brief outages or while switching between power sources. It’s a reliable feature for those of us who want continual, reliable power, particularly in areas prone to fluctuations in electricity supply.

What Can the BLUETTI AC200L Charge?

The BLUETTI 200L, with pure sine wave output can handily power a wide range of household and electronic devices. The pure sine wave output ensures that even sensitive electronics can be powered safely and efficiently.

Here’s a quick look at some of the items it can charge:

• Coffee Maker (1200W): Can run for approximately 3.8 hours.
• Electric Kettle (1500W): Capable of operating for over 3 hours.
• Refrigerator (150W): Can keep your food cold for more than 30 hours!
• Cooling Fan (60W): Able to provide over 70 hours of cooling.
• CPAP Machine (40W): Will run for more than 115 hours, suitable for extended use.
• Lights (10W): Can illuminate a space for over 400 hours.
• Laptop (100W): Offers up to 46 full charges.
• Smartphone (15W): Can be charged more than 300 times.

I’m especially excited to see that it can power a fridge for over 30 hours continuously, which is fantastic for keeping food safe during power emergencies.

BLUETTI AC200L outputs

Whether you’re powering a small home, a RV, or outdoor equipment, the BLUETTI’s outlets should be able to meet your energy needs.

Output Specifications:

• AC Outlets:
  • 4 x 120V/20A Outlets
  • 1 x 120V/30A NEMA TT-30
  • Total Power: 2,400W
• Inverter Type:
  • Pure Sine Wave
• Power Lifting Mode:
  • 3,600W
• Surge Power:
  • 7,200W
• USB-C Port:
  • 2 x 100W Max
• USB-A Port:
  • 2 x 18W USB-A
• DC Outlets:
  • 1 x 48VDC / 8A (RV Outlet)
  • 1 x 12V/10A (Car Outlet)
  • *All Regulated

Whether you’re charging laptops via USB-C, powering tools through AC outlets, or connecting your RV with the heavy duty DC outlet, the BLUETTI AC200L has you covered.

The only obvious charging option that’s missing is a wireless phone charger.

Size and Weight

The BLUETTI AC200L weighs 62.4 lbs (28.3 kg) and measures 16.5 x 11 x 14.4 inches (42 x 28 x 36.65 cm).

It’s a substantial unit in both weight and size, making it a little less easy to store or carry than something like the 800W BLUETTI AC70.

That said, there’s definitely a tradeoff between power and portability with solar charging stations, and the size and weight of the 200L is to be expected of something with this much power.

How Long Does It Take to Recharge?

Recharging the BLUETTI AC200L is quick and efficient process, with several options to suit different needs and circumstances.

The AC, solar, and car inputs make charging flexible, which is useful for those constantly on the move or using solar panels.

Here’s a summary of the recharge times across various methods. Actual charging speed and efficiency can be influenced by external factors like solar panel placement, heavy clouds or car battery strength.

• AC (2,400W): A full recharge takes only about 1.5 hours when plugged into an AC outlet, making it one of the quickest ways to restore power to the unit. For those times when you need power in a pinch, the AC200L can also reach up to 80% charge in a mere 45 minutes.
• Solar (1,200W): With optimal conditions including prime sunshine, ideal panel orientation, and cooler temperatures, the solar recharge can complete in approximately 2 hours.
• 12V/24V Car Outlet (100W/200W): Charging from a car outlet is the slowest method, taking roughly 10 hours at 200W or 20 hours at 100W to fully charge the battery.
• AC + Solar (2,400W): Combining AC power and solar energy can recharge the AC200L in around an hour, given prime solar conditions.

Quick and Efficient Power

The power station’s high capacity of 2,048Wh supports sustained use, while the power-lifting mode can handle a substantial 3,600W, with surge capability reaching 7,200W, to accommodate high-demand appliances and tools.

Fast Solar Charging

The BLUETTI AC200L has some seriously impressive solar charging capabilities, setting it apart from its predecessors. With the ability to accept up to 1,200W of solar input, it’s hands down one of the best performers in solar charging efficiency in its class.

Under optimal conditions – which include prime sunshine, ideal panel orientation, and cooler temperatures – the AC200L can be fully recharged from solar panels in just about 2 hours!

This fast solar charging feature is a big advantage if you’re off-grid or traveling in an RV, as it allows for quick and efficient energy harvesting from the sun.

Battery Expansion Capacity

The BLUETTI AC200L’s expansion capability makes it a powerhouse in situations requiring prolonged power supply. It’s designed to work seamlessly with specific BLUETTI expansion batteries, ensuring reliable performance during extended use or unexpected power outages. The AC200L is compatible with B210, B230, and B300 expansion batteries, allowing for a substantial increase in energy capacity.

When considering expansion configurations, the AC200L can be combined with two B210 batteries to reach a total capacity of 6,348Wh. Alternatively, pairing it with one B230 battery results in a combined capacity of 4,096Wh. For the maximum capacity of 8,192Wh, you can connect the AC200L with two B300 batteries. These combinations offer flexibility in scaling up power reserves to meet specific needs.

The AC200L is not compatible with third-party expansion batteries. The system is designed to work specifically with BLUETTI’s own expansion battery models.

Battery Longevity and Management

The BLUETTI AC200L has a LiFePO₄ battery, known for its longevity, offering over 3,000 cycles to 80% of its original capacity. This ensures that the AC200L remains a reliable power source for many years.

BLUETTI suggests you recharge the AC200L to 80% every 3-6 months, which preserves its shelf-life and ensures optimal performance.

The AC200L also includes an advanced Battery Management System (BMS) and an MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controller. These systems work together to optimize charging efficiency, protect against overcharging and over-discharging, and maintain overall battery health.

BLUETTI AC200L vs BLUETTI AC200MAX

There are a few key differences between the BLUETTI AC200L and AC200MAX.

Firstly, the AC200L has a higher output power of 2,400W compared to the AC200MAX’s 2,200W.

As far as inputs go, the AC200L supports a maximum of 2,400W (AC + DC/Solar) which surpasses the AC200MAX’s 1,400W (AC + PV) capability.

The AC200L has an advantage with a lower noise level of less than 50dB.

Another notable difference is that the AC200L doesn’t require a bulky external adapter for AC charging. For me, this is a huge advantage in portability, as you don’t need to carry around a large external adapter for AC charging with the AC200L.

Lastly, the AC200L supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for app control, offering more connectivity options than the AC200MAX, which only has Bluetooth compatibility. That said, the newer AC200L lacks the dual wireless chargers the AC200MAX includes and the touch screen.

BLUETTI app

The BLUETTI app, which connects via Bluetooth and WiFi, lets you effortlessly manage and keep track of your generator’s performance and settings from your smartphone.

There’s a lot you can do in the app, but I mostly use it to turn the DC and AC power off and on, and monitor how many watts of power come in from solar panels and the grid, as well as how many watts of power are going out for both AC and DC.

I really liked that you can toggle between these three charging modes in the app: standard, turbo, and silent charging modes. When charging in the house, I prefer the silent mode, which charges without the fan. In silent, it charges at about a third of the wattage of turbo mode, but I’m rarely in a hurry when charging in the house.

The app’s mostly for monitoring power usage, adjusting settings remotely, and staying informed about the AC200L’s status.

You can download the app from the App Store or Google Play.

BLUETTI AC200L Review

Overall, I found the AC200L to be a versatile and robust power station, perfect for camping trips and emergency home use, but there were a few things that could be improved.

What We Didn’t Like

Despite the BLUETTI AC200L’s impressive capabilities, there are a couple of drawbacks worth mentioning.

Firstly, the absence of a wireless charging pad might be a slight inconvenience for those who prefer the simplicity of charging devices without cords. While not a deal-breaker, it’s a feature that some users might miss.

Another consideration is the 200L’s heft. Weighing in at 62.4lbs (28.3kg) and with dimensions of 16.5 x 11 x 14.4 inches (42 x 28 x 36.65 cm), it’s not the easiest to move around. However, this is a common trade-off for portable power stations, and given the AC200L’s substantial power output, the size and weight are reasonable.

What We Liked

Having a Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) option is a huge deal for us. A UPS provides a seamless, automatic backup if the main power fails. We lose power a few times a year, and a UPS means that we can keep our computers and electronics powered up and running during a power failure.

The BLUETTI AC200L’s UPS is a huge pro for us, providing a rapid switchover to battery power in just 20 milliseconds during an outage to keep devices operational without interruption.

The 200L’s storage and output are big hitters, with the unit delivering 2,400W AC output and a 3,600W power lifting mode with a 2,048Wh battery capacity.

The ability to expand the battery is another helpful feature. You can increase the AC200L’s capacity to 4,096Wh with a single B230 battery or reach an impressive 8,192Wh with two B300 batteries, ensuring extended usage and peace of mind during prolonged outages or long trips.

The lightning-fast wall charging is a game-changer, allowing a rapid 0-80% recharge in just 45 minutes with a 2,400W AC input, which is exceptionally quick for a power station of this size and the fact it can handle 1200W of solar input puts it in the front of the pack for a device in this class.

I found the AC200L easy to use and intuitive. There’s a bright clear LED screen that’s visible even in direct sunlight and a straightforward, helpful app. These features collectively make the BLUETTI AC200L a top choice for anyone in need of reliable, portable power.

In conclusion

In the past year, we’ve reviewed quite a few solar generators, and the BLUETTI AC200L stands out as powerful and versatile power station, ideal for both camping adventures and as a reliable home emergency backup. Its robust battery capacity and multiple output options serve up plenty of power. Whether you’re powering a campsite, charging devices on a jobsite, or running small appliances, the AC200L meets these needs with ease.

In emergency situations at home, such as power outages, the AC200L is invaluable. The UPS function ensures uninterrupted power supply, keeping essential devices running smoothly. Also, the ability to quickly recharge via solar panels or AC input makes it quite practical in prolonged outage scenarios.

BLUETTI AC200L Review: The Bottom Line

Combining portability, high-capacity power storage, and diverse charging options, the BLUETTI AC200L is a top-tier choice for anyone looking for a reliable power solution, be it in the wilderness or during unexpected power disruptions at home.

See BLUETTI AC200L price.

In the past few years, we’ve become big fans of solar generators for car camping and emergency preparedness. Unlike gas generators, a solar setup is essentially free to run after the initial investment and a solar generator can even be safely run from inside your house, your trailer and even your tent.

For us, a portable solar generator, coupled with portable, foldable solar panels, is a great solution. This combo gives us flexibility for both off road vehicle camping, and emergency use in a power outage.

The BLUETTI PV350 is portable and simple to operate. With up to 350W of solar charging power and fast, efficient conversion rates, it’s equipped to sustain your off-grid lifestyle or work as a power backup in emergencies, powering electronics and small appliances seamlessly.

For those of us who love the call of the wild or simply want to be prepared for the unexpected, the versatility of a solar panel system is a game-changer. This portable 350W Bluetti panel (or two!), when coupled with a solar generator, is powerful enough, and portable enough, to charge our important electronics for days.

Using a 350W Solar Panel for Camping and Emergency Preparedness

In this article, we delve into the world of solar panels – a powerhouse for both RVers and car camping enthusiasts and a beacon of reliability for homeowners during emergencies. From harnessing the power of the sun during the day to lighting up your campsite at night to keeping your family safe and connected in times of crisis, solar panels are more than just a backup plan; they’re essential for off grid independence and emergency preparedness.

So, let’s explore how you can make the most of these solar marvels, ensuring your adventures and safety are powered by nothing less than the sun itself.

350W Solar Panels for Camping

In the great outdoors, where the freedom of the road meets the serenity of nature, RVing and car camping has evolved. No longer just about roughing it, it’s about smartly blending comfort with adventure.

What better way to power this experience than with solar panels, especially with portable and foldable 350W variants like the BLUETTI PV350. These are not just solar panels; they are your ticket to an upgraded, eco-friendly camping experience, especially when paired with a powerful solar generator (see our review of the BLUETTI AC200MAX).

Pairing a BLUETTI power station with the PV350 Solar Panel creates a powerful and versatile combination, ideal for off-grid camping excursions and vital for maintaining power during unforeseen outages.

With this setup, you can effortlessly keep your gadgets and small appliances operational, relying merely on sunlight. As long as you’re not facing heavy rain or snow, this solar-power tandem ensures you stay connected and powered up in various situations.

Portable Solar Solutions

The BLUETTI PV350 stands out in the world of solar panels. Its portable design doesn’t just save space; it makes setting it up a snap.

Imagine unfolding this solar powerhouse at your campsite, a mere extension of your adventure gear, seamlessly integrating with the way you set up your site.

These panels are designed for the nomad in you – light enough to carry, yet robust enough to power your camping essentials. They unfold in moments, turning every ray of sunlight into a promise of sustained energy, no matter where you park under the open sky.

Optimizing Solar Use in Nature

Positioning is key to harnessing solar power efficiently.

When setting up camp, observe the path of the sun. Aim to position your BLUETTI PV350 so it faces the sun during peak hours (typically 10am to 4pm). This might mean repositioning a couple of times during the day to catch those valuable rays but that’s a small task for a significant energy boost.

Remember, even under the shade of a tree or on a cloudy day, these panels will still work; their efficiency will just dip a bit. And when the sun sets, they quietly wait, ready for the next day’s sun dance.

Powering Camping Essentials with Solar Power

This is where the BLUETTI PV350 truly shines. It transforms the sun’s energy into a reliable power source for your camping must-haves. Lights, cooking devices, and even your portable fridge can all draw from a solar reservoir.

Gone are the days of worrying about conserving phone battery for emergency calls or GPS use while off the grid. Need to whip up a quick meal with an electric cooker, listen to tunes or keep the campsite illuminated after dark? Your solar setup has got you covered, turning your camping trip into a modern, sustainable, and connected experience.

Incorporating a 350W solar panel like the BLUETTI PV350 into your RV or car camping adventures doesn’t just add convenience; it infuses your outdoor escapades with a sense of self-sufficiency and respect for the environment. It also lets you power things in national parks 24 hours a day if needed, unlike most combustible generators that are loud and not allowed in most parks for the majority of the day and night.

Home Emergency Preparedness with Solar Panels

When the unexpected strikes – be it a natural disaster or a power outage – being prepared can make all the difference. Solar panels, particularly versatile larger models like the 350W PV350 Bluetti, are increasingly becoming a critical component of home emergency preparedness.

Here’s how to harness their power effectively and ensure that when emergencies knock, you’re ready and resilient.

Assessing Emergency Power Needs

The first step in emergency preparedness is understanding your power needs. Make a list of essential appliances and devices that you would need to run during a power outage – this could include refrigerators, freezers, lighting, heating or cooling systems, and communication devices.

Each device’s power requirements will guide you in determining how many solar panels you’ll need to meet your emergency power needs. Remember, when in an emergency, it’s about powering essentials, not your entire household.

For us, the most important things to run in an emergency outage are:

• a few lights
• fridge
• freezer
• heating (if in a cold environment)
• office electronics (laptop, router, phones, and so on)

Choosing an emergency home power solution depends on numerous factors and your needs will vary depending on the time of year, the amount of devices you hope to power and the length of the emergency. Doing a cost and risk assessment will also help determine how much you want to spend on your solution and solar panels are definitely a proven strategy in may parts of the world.

BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel Specs

• Power Output: 350W
• Surface Lamination: Durable ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene)
• Cell Type: High-Efficiency Monocrystalline Silicon
• Peak Cell Efficiency: 23.4%
• Optimal Power Voltage (Vmp): 37.5V
• Optimal Operating Current (Imp): 9.2A
• Open Circuit Voltage (OCV): 46.5V
• Short Circuit Current (Isc): 10.8A
• Connector Type: Standard MC4

Size, warranty and more:

• Weight: 30.6lbs (13.9kg)
• Size Open: 35.6 × 94.4 inches (90.5*240cm)
• Size Folded: 35.6 × 24.1 × 2.5 inches (90.561.36.5cm)
• Operating Temp Range: 14-149℉ (-10-65℃)
• Ideal Operating Temp: 77℉ (25℃)
• Cable Length: 118 inches (3m)
• Certifications: FCC, CE, ROHS
• Warranty: 12 Months

Tips on Setting up the Bluetti PV350 Solar Panel

Since the Bluetti PV350 is comprised of 4 interconnected solar panels, it can be a bit trickier to initially set up. We’ve found that after unhooking the 2 top straps, it’s best to open the initial fold and leave the other 2 folds closed. We then unzip the power cables from the rear compartment and stretch them behind us. After that we undo the velcro and extend both stands to roughly 45 degrees.

At this point we like to ensure the panels are directly facing the sun. While you can use a solar angle calculator to calculate the ideal solar panel placement, we like the perpendicular trick where you hold an object in front of the panel and the smaller the shadow, the more solar generation you will achieve. Having the sun fully perpendicular or 90 degrees to the panels is optimal however note that the sun moves throughout the day so it vary greatly between sunup and sundown. Most aim for noon time sun however feel free to rotate your panels a few times during the day to achieve optimal power generation.

Finally, we unfold the other 2 folds one section at a time (you can do both at once if there are 2 people present). As you unfold, ensure the stands are set at the same angles as the first two. You might need to make a few adjustments as you set yours up the first few times but it gets quicker and easier with each subsequent set up and only takes a minute to have it connected and ready to go.

When folding everything back up, just stand the Bluetti PV350 straight up and the elastic stands will self close. Then just fold back it up and attach the 2 straps. Now place the cables back into the zippered compartment and you’re ready to stow it away for another day!

Is a Bluetti PV350 350W Solar Panel Right for You?

Solar panels transform camping trips by providing a reliable and eco-friendly power source for essential conveniences and blending outdoor adventure with modern comforts. For home emergencies, they offer an invaluable power backup, ensuring essential appliances remain operational, keeping you and your family safe and comfortable no matter the situation.

We found the portable Bluetti PV350 solar panels a good compromise between size, weight and power and look forward to future powered camping trips with them. We’re also happy that we have them as backup for that inevitable home power outage. They’re just another piece of our growing emergency preparedness plan.

We plan to put the portable AC200Max to the test and see just how much we can throw at this thing before we give it our verdict. If you have any questions after our Bluetti AC200Max review, then we haven’t completed our mission so read on and let us know if there’s anything we’ve missed.

AC200Max First Impressions

Out of the box, the Bluetti AC200Max impresses with its rugged design. Despite its hefty weight (28kg or 68lbs), the built-in handles make it relatively easy to move around (though you’re not trekking over the Alps while lugging this thing). The large LCD touch screen is a nice touch, offering clear insights into power usage and battery status at a glance plus the ability to enable/disable AC or DC outputs at the touch of the screen.

We’ve gotten used to the bluetooth Bluetti app (Android or iPhone) with our other Bluetti portable power stations so it’s nice to see the AC200Max also includes Bluetooth. Unlike most of the others though, this unit has additional information right on the screen so rather than having to open our phones to dive deeper into current power settings and info, it’s nice to be able to access it directly on the device itself. It also seems to track issues which can be great if running into problems with certain devices down the road.

Bluetti AC200Max Inputs and Outputs

With it’s 16 ports and dual wireless chargers, including its built-in 30A NEMA TT-30 outlet and a 12V 30A DC outlet, this power generator seems well geared up for the RV, campervan and van lifer crowd. The addition of a USB C 100w port is great for laptops that power themselves via USB and saves having to lug out the extra laptop power supply when working on the go. Being able to wirelessly charge both our phones at the same time is an extra bonus as we usually fight for who gets that privilege and the plethora of USB inputs should be enough to satisfy any of the digital crowd and their visiting friends as well.

Turning on the AC200Max for the first time showed it’s power level at 67%, which is great if you bought the device and didn’t have time to charge it up before heading out. Plugging in the included AC charger, we immediately noticed the fan noise from the AC charger (likely to keep the charger cool while running). While the sound isn’t loud (think computer fan on high), it is definitely noticeable however it’s nothing like a gas generator running. I had it plugged in only a few feet from me while charging and the sound was easily drowned out by the fan heater in our office whenever it kicked in.

With all the inputs on the left side of the device, it keeps the front outputs clear when recharging either via AC or if you have solar panels plugged (bonus that it can actually charge with both at the same time for some super quick charging potential).

To start things up, there’s a nice silver power on button and you can have the LCD dim after a while if you don’t need it running (can be enabled/disabled in the touchscreen options). The LCD also lets you set the brightness right in the settings which is another big plus for using it outdoors on a sunny day.

Like most portable power stations, the Bluetti AC200Max features rubber style plugs to keep the ports dirt, sand and water free when not in use. Also, just like most other portable power stations, it’s important to note that the AC200Max isn’t waterproof or designed to be left in the rain per se.

AC200Max Power Capabilities

With a whopping 2,048Wh capacity and 2,200W AC Pure Sine Wave output, the Bluetti AC200Max, with it’s up to 4,800w surge ability, makes this power station a real powerhouse. It effortlessly charges everything from laptops and smartphones to electric grills, mini-fridges, deep fryers and even blenders. The plethora of ports (16 in total plus the wireless charge) including USB, USB-C, AC, and DC outlets, ensures you’ll never run out of places to plug in.

Quickly scanning the specs, it seem there’s enough power here to keep things running for days and we will eventually put it through it’s paces. Though it’s not a cheap option, the fact you can add in extra battery banks to quickly boost it’s capabilities is a nice option without having to pay for an entire extra power generator. The AC200Max allows up to 2 extra battery only devices (B230 @ 2048Wh or B300 @ 3072Wh) bringing up the total power to a possible 8,192Wh! That’s huge!

The AC200Max can charge itself via AC wall power, DC solar, 12v DC car charger, AC/DC traditional generator or combos thereof. It definitely allows a lot of options for charging so how long it takes to charge will depend on how you’re powering it and how much power those options have. From 67%, I can say it took approximately 1.75hrs to fully charge up to 100% using around 475w from the included AC charger. That seems to be in line with the estimated 5.5hrs from empty to full via AC given in the literature so that’s a nice plus.

Solar Charging the Bluetti AC200Max

The ability to charge the AC200Max via solar panels is a game changer for off-grid adventures. Though solar panels are sold separately, pairing it with a powerful set of solar panels makes for an efficient solar generator system and is where this thing really shines. With a max input of 900w of solar energy via the built-in MPPT controller, on a sunny day, you can fully charge it in about 3-4 hours which is great for a device of this size.

We tested charging our Bluetti AC200Max with a pair of BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panels, each with a max of 350w and the Bluetti handled the 700w input like a champ. Since we hadn’t emptied the AC200Max fully at this point, we can’t say how long exactly this takes from empty however the numbers seemed to correspond to the solar input we had that day (which unfortunately, wasn’t as high as we’ve seen in Summer as Fall has rolled in and cloudy days are upon us.)

According to what we saw, on a good day we should be able to beat the AC wall charger with that 700w setup at just under 5 hours. With good sun and maxing out the 900w solar panel max input, hitting the 3.5 hour mark as they suggest should be doable from empty.

Hooking up the Bluetti AC200Max to both solar panels was easy with the included MC4 to DC input connector. We simply ran our 2 solar panels in parallel and plugged them in. MC4 style connectors are the leading solar panel style connectors we’ve been seeing lately however if you have a 3rd party solar panel then there are cheap conversion connectors on Amazon you can pick up.

Other AC200Max Features

The wireless charging pads, the ability to charge up to 16 devices simultaneously, and the included solar charging capability make the Bluetti a versatile companion for modern nomads. Additionally, the Bluetti Bluetooth app allows for easy monitoring and control. While the app works better when fully logged into the system, it does give you the option to just bypass this for local only connections. While we would like to see a few more features added to it, it’s still a great extra tool in your solar arsenal and can help you ensure that your solar panels are providing optimal power as the day progresses and whether it’s time to move them to catch more sun.

Including a larger 30A NEMA TT-30 outlet on the AC200Max to power up an RV or trailer is a great bonus and allows you to supplant your system if you need a little extra power to run things whether completely off grid or staying at campsite. Since most campsites in North America have strict no noise policies between certain times of the day, running a traditional gas, propane or diesel generator isn’t possible. Even when the AC200Max is under a strong load, the fan in the unit pales in sound compared to a traditional generator and should easily fall under the strictest no noise policies.

Whether you use that extra power to make a few hundred cups of coffee, run your AC unit for most of the afternoon or run your CPAP every night for a week is up to you. I vote on using it to power up the old blender and make some icy drinks in the heat of the summer and enjoy the little gifts technology has given us.

Bluetti AC200Max Price Point

The AC200Max is a significant investment, but for those in need of reliable, high-capacity power on-the-go, it’s a worthy expenditure. While it is definitely more expensive in comparison to the initial cost of a comparable gas or propane generator, the fact it can be charged up for free everyday via solar power means that the total cost of ownership is going to be reduced when you don’t have to buy gas, perform oil changes or worry about wear and tear on the engine. Couple in lack of noise and lack of noxious fumes allowing it to run safely indoors or outdoors within feet of you means it can also go places a traditional generator can’t.

In addition, the longevity and durability of LiFePO₄ cells means that even if you emptied and recharged your AC200Max every day for 10 years, it would still retain over 80+ of it’s max charge. That means that you should never have to worry about overusing it. The AC200Max is clearly meant to be used.

Bluetti AC200Max Positives

While there are plenty of great things to say about the AC200Max, we love that there are plenty of ports on it. The AC200Max can also handle a generous amount of solar input (900w) and being able to charge it via AC and DC simultaneously can make a quick charge so much quicker if in a rush.

We liked the solid feel of the unit as it feels well built and looks like it can take some abuse. We can see it being popular with RVers and van lifers and even find a nice spot in a trade person’s van or truck to charge up their power tools when a power plug isn’t readily available. With 2046wh of power, it should be able to keep up with most demands placed on it in a day and the dedicated 30A RV hookup means connecting it to your trailer should be a breeze.

The top dual wireless chargers are great for couples or families and means less wires are needed when topping up our phones. With 5v charging becoming more and more popular, from the usual USB charged devices to RGB lighting and even portable sound systems, we feel the extra USB ports on the AC200Max will be even handier as time goes by.

The color coded connectors on the Bluetti generator also makes plugging in solar panels easier to see and we wish more of these devices used color coded connectors to help keep the guesswork down when first setting them up.

AC200Max Negatives

A few things we noted with the Bluetti AC200Max that we didn’t care for was the lack of AC eco mode charging. We’ve seen this on a few other portable chargers and like it when quickly topping ours up. In Eco mode, a fan barely has to run on the included AC charger. Yes, it does make the charging process longer however it is also much quieter when not in a rush and is easier on the battery.

For purely solar charging people, having an external AC charger makes sense as it lowers overall weight and the company can fit more battery and options into a smaller device. That said, it also adds an extra hassle for those plugging it into the wall as the AC charger takes additional space and is harder to keep track of.

The AC charger on the Bluetti AC200Max also doesn’t have it’s own power button so you can’t just leave it plugged in and top off the batteries every few months during the winter or times when you’re not using it consistently. It needs to be unplugged for it to fully shut down which can be a mild nuisance. Due to this, the AC200Max should definitely not be used as a giant UPS.

Our final complaint on the Bluetti AC200Max is that the LCD is a bit hard to read outside. Indoors, the touch LCD screen seems bright and colorful but in full sun it’s tough to see, especially when compared to other offerings from Bluetti. We do love the touchpad functionality on the AC200Max though and wish the Bluetti App included more options when compared to the touchscreen options on the AC200Max itself. It would be nice to have access to all the same settings in the app however that’s more of a nice to have feature rather than a must have in our minds since many of the competitors don’t even have an app or allow remote operation at all.

Bluetti AC200Max Review Verdict

The Bluetti AC200Max proves to be a reliable, robust, and versatile power solution for travelers and homeowners alike. Its high-capacity, plethora of charging options, and fast solar charging capability make it stand out in a ever-crowded market. While the price may seem steep for some, the value it provides, especially for those serious about staying powered while on the move, is undeniable.

We can see RVers, van lifers, tradesmen and emergency preppers loving the device and, when coupled with a decent solar setup, it can be a great portable power generator for years to come.

Keep reading for our thorough review.

BougeRV Fort 1000 Review

Looking for a power source for your next camping trip or a backup for emergency situations at home? We’ve put the BougeRV Fort 1000 Solar Power Station to the test to see if it lives up to the hype.

See prices now.

Boasting a solid 1,000 watt pure sine wave output, this power station has the muscle to fuel your small appliances, keep your devices charged, and your campsite lit. Plus, its off-grid capabilities mean you can roam free without the stress of finding an external power source.

Here are tbe Bouge RV Fort 1000 specs at a glance:

• 1120Wh LiFePO4 Battery
• 1000W, with 2000W Peak
• 10 outputs
• Charge via solar, wall charge, or DC (car)
• Color LED smart display

Keep reading to find out if this unit could be the solution you’ve been searching for.

BougeRV Coupon Code

Looking for a great BougeRV promo code? We have a great discount just for our readers!

Use our code for TBN35 for 35% OFF the FORT 1000 1120Wh LiFePO4 Portable Power Station!

To get the deal, just use our link here, and enter code TBN35 to get 35% off. Code expires Dec 31, 2023.

See prices here.

Solar generator for camping and off-grid

A solar generator can elevate your off-grid camping experience, powering everything from a blender and coffee maker to a mini-fridge. You can also enjoy lighting, music, or any other amenities you’d miss from home.

The best part? Solar generators operate near silent when compared to traditional gas and propane generators and are fossil-fuel free. You can also recharge them using solar panels at no extra cost and without any noise. This allows for anytime operation from dawn to dusk, wherever you are. Plus, if you’re in parks where gas generators have restricted hours due to noise, a solar generator lets you plug in and power any time of the day.

Unboxing the Bouge RV Fort 1000

What’s in the box?

• BougeRV Fort 1000 solar generator
• AC charging cable
• solar charging cables
• 12v car charging cable
• warranty card
• manual

Out of the box, the Fort 1000 has a solid feel. It’s easy enough to carry, with dual handles on either side. It’s also a reasonable weight for the power at just under 30 pounds (28.7 lbs. or 13 kg, to be exact).

There are a few nice little add ons – the bottom of the BougeRV comes with little rubberized pads on the bottom to keep the generator from sliding on smooth surfaces. Just remember to remove the protective plastic from the bottom!

It’s light enough that, as an average sized woman, I can carry it around home or a campsite with relative ease. I wouldn’t want to trek it with me on a longer hike, but that’s pretty standard for any solar generator of this power level.

Check price here.

How long does it take to recharge?

You can recharge using:

• a BougeRV solar panel, you can recharge in 4.5 to 5.5 hours (200W max).
• in your car, using the included DC cable (200W max).
• the USB-C recharge port (60W max)
• the rather large AC adapter brick charger

The LiFePO4 battery can be recharged over 3500 times. There’s also an advanced BMS (battery management system) to prevent power surges or overcharging.

For us, it went from a 20 percent charge, out of the box, to a 100 percent charge in about four hours (using the wall charger).

Next, we tried out charging various devices. There are 10 inputs, covering everything from USB to DC to AC.

What can it power?

With 1,200W of power, you can run a mini fridge for 15 hours, a coffee maker for 1.5 hours, a CPAP machine for 23.8 hours or charge a laptop 17 times.

You can use the Fort 1000 to plug in standard household items, using the AC outlets, USB chargers, or even using a car charger.

The Fort 1000 is a pure sine wave inverter, meaning it can run delicate electronics safely.

The Fort 100 has:

• three 3 prong, grounded household AC outlets (110V), to plug in anything from a freezer to a laptop to a small heater to a heated blanket to a blender
• four USB ports which include:
  • One USB-C port, with a 60W Max output, which would be great to charge a laptop or tablet
  • One USB-A port with quick charge 3.0, which is fantastic for charging cell phones quickly
  • Two USB-A ports that run at 5V with a max current of 2.4A
• a traditional 12 volt automotive style outlet so you can charge any device you normally plug into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter port

There’s no wireless charging on top of the BougeRV, which is a small disappointment, but not a big deal for me, as I rarely use this feature anyway.

The BougeRV display

I found the Fort 1000’s LED display clear and easy to read. It’s a simple, but intuitive smart display indicating input/output wattage and battery percentage.

There’s no app for the BougeRV solar generator, which is a little disappointing.

That said, I mostly use our solar generator apps for monitoring charging via solar panels, so it’s not a necessity for us.

Is the BougeRV generator noisy?

The fans do have a bit of noise, which is comparable to other solar generators on the market. They do run at only one single speed, meaning that there’s no option to turn down the fans to reduce the noise. However, the fans do their job of making the unit says cool.

To be fair, the fan is no louder than other solar generators we’ve tried from other companies.

Is it durable?

The Fort 1000 is a durable unit, but like other solar generators, it should be kept away from water and handled with care to prevent water damage.

That said, it has a solid feel, with sturdy handles on either side for carrying.

The buttons on the display have a solid feel, and the charging and output plugs are solid.

Is there an app?

No, there is no app for the Bouge RV solar generator.

What’s the warranty like?

The warranty on the website says there’s a “5+2 Years (Exclusive benefit for purchases made on the BougeRV official website.)

To be fair, that’s not 100% clear to me, so I reached out to BougeRV support for clarification.

I sent an email to support on Saturday, Sept 30th, for clarification on the warranty. I’ll update this blog when more information is available.

Bottom Line: Is the BougeRV Fort 1000 worth it?

With a robust 1,000-watt pure sine wave output, this power station is more than capable of running your appliances, charging your gadgets, and illuminating your campsite. Its ability to function off-grid allows you the freedom to explore without worrying about locating a separate power supply.

That said, it’s not perfect (nothing is!) with the absence of wireless charging and no included app to check the levels wirelessly. We also would have loved to see a higher solar input max wattage to be able to charge quicker via larger solar panels than 200W. If you only have 200W or less in solar panels or plan to charge it at home, then the BougeRV portable power station is more than fine for your needs.

See price now.

Looking for something a little different? Check out the entire BougeRV power station collection here.

Pros

• Nice balance of power at 1,000W and weight (under 30 lbs.)
• Intuitive and easy to use
• Solid carrying handles
• Can handle charging common household items, as well as sensitive electronics
• Solid lithium iron phosphate battery 

Cons

• Fans are a bit loud and only have one speed, which could be irritating but does keep it cool.
• A higher max solar input would be good for those with larger solar panels.
• Does not have a built in wireless charger, which could be a handy feature for some.
• AC adapter brick charger is large and awkward

More great articles:

• How to Watch Your Favorite TV Shows and Movies While Traveling
• An Honest Review of GlocalMe WiFi Hotspot
• Skyroam Solis Review – How We Get Unlimited WiFi Anywhere We Travel

BougeRV Fort 1000 Solar Generator

With its 1,000-watt pure sine wave output and off-grid functionality, the BougeRV Fort 1000 offers ample power for appliances and gadgets while allowing you the freedom to explore without seeking an external power source.

– The Barefoot Nomad

Good balance of power and weight

Pure sine wave output

Durable

No wireless charging or app

Summary

If you’re a dedicated RVer or in search of a home solar generator, the Fort 1000 strikes a balanced mix of affordability, performance, and mobility.

Use our code for TBN35 for 35% OFF!

See prices here.

4.4

If you’re a camper looking for a reliable power source or someone prepping for emergencies and natural disasters, the BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel might have caught your eye.

It’s portable and easy to set up, but is it worth the investment? In this review, we’ll delve into its features, from its capacity to support up to 1050W of charging power (when linked with additional panels), to its practicality for off-grid and emergency situations.

Stick around to find out if the BLUETTI PV350 deserves a spot on your shortlist of dependable power solutions.

BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel Review

This is our first BLUETTI brand solar panel, though we have the BLUETTI EB70S Portable Power Station (800W rated wattage and 716Wh battery capacity, and 1,400W of surge power) and the more powerful BLUETTI AC180 (1,800W AC Output, and 1,152Wh battery capacity, and 2,700W Power Lifting capacity).

Combining a BLUETTI power station with the PV350 Solar Panel gives you a dynamic duo that’s excellent for off-grid camping, and also a lifeline during unexpected power outages. Imagine keeping your devices and small appliances up and running seamlessly— all it takes is a little sunlight, and you’re good to go, so long as you’re not battling serious rain or snow.

First impressions of the BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel – unboxing

What’s in the box? The box includes the BLUETTI SP350 350W solar panel, and one user manual.

It weighs just over 30 pounds (30.6 lbs, to be exact, or 13.9 kg).

The panel came folded in 4 as a slim package of 35.6″ wide, 24″ high, and 2.5″ deep. (In centimeters, that’s 90.5 by 61.3 by 6.5cm).

When folded, the panels serve as their own carrying case. The built-in case has sturdy handles on top, with rubberized grips. The carrying case and handles make it easy to move, pack, and store the panels when not in use.

There’s a built-in zippered storage bag sown onto the front that stores cables. There’s also lettering printed on the inside of the storage bag with all the specifications for the PV350, which is pretty helpful if you’re setting it up somewhere remote without internet access.

There are two elastic fabric straps at the top holding the panels together, with easy snap plastic buckles.

How to set up the BLUETTI PV350 panels

To unfold the panels, unclick the two buckles on top.

Then, just unfold the four panels.

Unfolded, the panels are 94″ long by 35.6″ high (or 240 by 90.5 cm).

From there, it’s fairly simple to set up the panels.

Each panel has a 6-inch wide, flat, reinforced stand, complete with a retractable nylon tape for precise angling toward the sun. While the integrated stands might present a learning curve during your first few setups (yes, knocking one over is almost a rite of passage), they do a solid job of keeping the panels securely upright once you get the hang of it.

There’s also a stretchy strap attaching each stand to the panels, which makes adjusting each stand’s angle easy up to 45 degrees.

Tip! When I folded out the middle two stands first, it was easier just to unfold the other two panels, and set up the stands one at a time.

Here’s how the stands look when they are all set up.

BLUETTI says the best working temperature is 77 ℉ (25 ℃), but the official operating temperature is 14 to 149 ℉ (-10 to 65 ℃).

For me, I hope to never use the solar panels at 149 ℉ (Yikes!), but the lower operating temperature of 14 ℉ (or -10℃) is worth a note. We don’t often get temperatures that cold here, but it does happen occasionally, and we won’t be able to effectively use the panels below that temperature. (There’s a good chance they’d be covered in snow at those temps here anyway.)

How to connect solar panels to a BLUETTI portable power station

The BLUETTI 350w solar panel thankfully includes a long power cable.

BLUETTI has been pretty generous here, with a cable that’s over 10 feet long (3.175m), allowing you a lot of distance between the panel and your solar generator.

All that’s left to do is attach your cable from your solar generator, and plug the charging cable into the DC input on the BLUETTI power station.

From there, the BLUETTI power station recognizes that you are using the solar input, and will show this on the display (Of course displays will vary depending on which solar generator you have.)

What I really like about the BLUETTI AC180 and the PV350 combo is that you can charge via solar, while using the solar generator to charge other things since it allows passthrough charging. In this case, we’re charging a phone on the top wireless charging pad at the same time as charging via the solar panel.

I personally love to use the BLUETTI app to keep an eye on the BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel’s performance without having to sit and watch the display on the power station.

Tip: Keep your power station in a shaded spot to prevent overheating! It can also easily sit behind the panels themselves if just charging for the day.

What power stations is the PV350 compatible with?

The 350w BLUETTI 350PV is compatible with the BLUETTI AC200P, AC200MAX, AC300, EB150, EB240, EP500, EP500PRO, and AC500. It’s also compatible with other power stations, like our BLUETTI AC180, that have MC4 connectors and can be solar-charged.

On its own, this panel delivers a solid 350W of peak power. It can reach up to 46.5V VOC with a max current of 9.2A at 37.5V. If that’s too much wattage for your particular charger, you could also just fold half the solar charger closed thereby cutting your max possible wattage in 2. Please note that using it this way isn’t officially approved by Bluetti so you’re on your own if you decide to use it this way.

Is the BLUETTI PV350 solar panel waterproof?

Curious if the BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel can weather the elements?

While it’s not fully waterproof, it does offer a level of splash resistance. Built with heavy-duty panels that carry an IP65 water-resistant certification, it’s designed to handle water splashes thanks to its ETFE coating. So, take note: it’s not meant to be left out in heavy rain or submerged in water.

So, can you count on the BLUETTI PV350 in a downpour?

The answer is no, but for minor water contact and most light rains, it’s designed to hold its own.

Keep reading as we delve into other aspects of this panel’s durability and performance.

Is it durable?

Wondering about the durability of the BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel?

Constructed with laminated panels and featuring a surface made of long-lasting ETFE material, it’s built to withstand wear and tear. Plus, its scratch-resistant surface makes it easy to clean with just a wet cloth.

So, is the PV350 a durable option for your outdoor or emergency power needs? Based on its construction, it seems well-equipped to handle the rigors of its intended use.

How much power does a 350W solar panel produce in a day?

Curious about the daily power output of a 350W solar panel like the BLUETTI PV350?

While it’s rated for 350 watts, actual output can vary due to numerous factors such as location, angle, shading, temperature, and panel condition. Performance peaks when the sun is high and decreases in cloudy conditions or low sun angles.

We set up our solar panels on a partly cloudy day and set the panels up quickly, and were immediately pulling in 179 of the 350 watts. That’s pretty good for a lot of cloud, and not having the panels angled directly at the sun.

However, the BLUETTI PV350 monocrystalline panels do feature a high conversion efficiency of up to 23.4% and excels in low-light conditions compared to polycrystalline panels. It’s also equipped with movable stands to achieve optimal sun exposure angles.

So, how many kWh does a 350W solar panel produce in a day? Under optimal conditions, on a seven-hour day, you can expect around 2.45 kWh.

Want more power?

You can run up to three PV350 panels in parallel to get a whopping 1050W charging power (or the max that your solar power station can accept via solar).

I haven’t been able to test this personally, as we only have a single solar panel currently, however our resident feline mathematician says the math checks out.

Can I use BLUETTI Solar Panels to charge a different, third-party power station?

Wondering if you can pair your BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel with a third-party power station?

The answer is yes, but there are a couple of conditions. First, the power station needs to have MC4 connectors. (Many solar power stations come with adapters and if not, adapters can be cheaply bought online.) Second, it should be compatible with the output specifications of the BLUETTI solar panels (which is 350W per panel or 36.5V at 9.2A).

So, can the BLUETTI PV350 flexibly integrate with other brands? Under these conditions, it certainly can.

BLUETTI PV350 vs SP350 solar panels

The key distinction between the BLUETTI PV350 and SP350 solar panels lies in their wiring: the PV350 has parallel wiring, while the SP350 uses a series configuration.

This makes the PV350 more shade-tolerant in performance. Additionally, the PV series uses a single waterproof coating to cover all solar cells, whereas the SP series panels are sewn onto a large, untreated canvas.

Who is the BLUETTI PV350 folding solar panel for

The folding BLUETTI PV350 solar panel is designed for people on the move. Whether that be campers, hikers, off grid builders, rvers, tailgaters, boaters, preppers or remote workers. Easy to fold up and store away, they’re great for quickly putting up and taking down when needed and could be awesome in an emergency.

While they aren’t incredibly light, they do provide a good amount of power for their size and with their included stands, they can be adjusted to match the best angle the sun is found on any given day. For best results, couple it with a portable solar generator with enough power to match your lifestyle.

BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel

Interested in going off-grid? The BLUETTI PV350 is portable and user-friendly. When paired with a compatible BLUETTI power station, it offers the potential for nearly infinite, off-grid power.

– The Barefoot Nomad

Portable

Easy to set up and use

Fast charging speeds with high conversion efficiency up to 23.4%

Can run up to three PV350 panels in parallel to get a whopping 1050W charging power

Splash proof but not water or snow proof

Summary

The BLUETTI PV350 is portable and simple to operate. With up to 350W of solar charging power and fast, efficient conversion rates, it’s equipped to sustain your off-grid lifestyle, or work as a power backup in emergencies, powering electronics and small appliances seamlessly.

See Price on BLUETTI See Price on Amazon

4.8

Are you fascinated by Japanese culture and long to explore the endless variety of snacks, ramen, and unique stationery that the Land of the Rising Sun has to offer?

In our in-depth ZenPop review, our family of four once again dives into the world of Japanese subscription boxes, including the tantalizing ZenPop snack box, flavorsome ramen box, and the creative stationary box.

Our ZenPop review: Is ZenPop worth it?

ZenPop has one of the biggest, if not the biggest, selection of boxes available, which include Japanese subscription boxes for snacks, ramen, stationary, anime, and more!

Keep reading to uncover our hands-on experiences, detailed insights, and find out how you can embark on a delightful Japanese journey right from your doorstep!

In this Zenpop review our family of four shares our hands-on:

• Zenpop Japanese snack box review
• ZenPop stationary box review
• ZenPop ramen box review

Plus we look at the other subscription boxes ZenPop offers, including the ZenPop anime box and limited edition box.

In a hurry? See ZenPop’s boxes here.

ZenPop Snack Box review

There are at least 20 or more new snacks to try in every box, making ZenPop one of the larger subscription boxes we tried.

ZenPop Japanese snack boxes are filled with colorful, high quality treats with a combo of savory and sweet items, bringing Japan’s fascinating food culture straight to your doorstep.

ZenPop snack boxes include candy, beverages, noodles, snacks and drinks, dagashi, chocolate, and seasonal treats. Each box also has a big bowl of ramen and a drink.

Each month’s box is themed differently, with themes like summertime snacks, Kyoto spring, Matsuri munchies, and more.

They offer four subscription plans:

• 12 month plan for $42/month
• 6 month plan for $43.42/month
• 3 month plan for $44.85/month
• a monthly plan for $46.27/month

Can I order just one box from ZenPop

To order just one box, choose the one month subscription plan and turn off automatic renewal immediately. Of all the snack boxes we tried, we found that ZenPop makes it the easiest just to order one box!

There’s also a non-recurring gift box option for the snack boxes, however, it unfortunately only comes in the three, six, or 12 months subscription packages. You can’t select a one month gift option.

Unless you turn off automatic renewal, all non-gift subscription plans (including the one month plan) automatically renew on the 2nd of the month following the receipt of your last pack.

ZenPop discount code!

We reached out to ZenPop, and they gave us a coupon code to give you an 800 Japanese Yen discount on your first order (that’s approximately $5.50 USD). The discount is automatically applied when you use our link below.

Get the discount automatically here.

Is the ZenPop snack box good for vegetarians, vegans or food allergies?

Is ZenPop suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

Vegetarians and vegans are on their own with this box. Their website says that “Most Japanese food products are not vegetarian or vegan-friendly. Most of the instant noodles in our Ramen Box contain meat or fish products. Occasionally, some of the snacks in our Snack Box may contain animal products.”

With three vegetarians in our family, we decided to use our handheld translator to scan the ingredients list on the snacks, which worked well for us. We just passed the snacks containing meat to the omnivores nearby.

You can find information on allergens for items in the box on the ZenPop website, and they even come translated into English, French, Traditional and Simplified Chinese. The information booklet in your box has a QR code that leads to the website.

ZenPop Japanese stationery subscription box review

Every month, the ZenPop Stationery Box subscription brings a new and fun theme right to your door. Each month offers a new theme, from glimpses of traditional Japan to whimsical cute puppies, with plenty of variety.

Inside each box, you’ll find:

• High quality pens, pencils, or highlighters
• Unique, fun stickers
• Washi (Japanese paper) tape, which is lightweight and beautifully stylized, great for crafts and decorations
• Sticky notes, memo pads, or letter sets
• Plus new and novel items

This isn’t a huge box, physically, but there are plenty of fun items in here.

Overall, I thought ZenPop Stationery Pack provides a good value, with themed stationery that’s often hard to find elsewhere.

Our daughter, who’s 14, loved the box. She spent about an hour going through the box’s contents, and trying out the erasable highlighter marker (which was very cool!)

Though not everything in the box is perfect for me, the excitement of discovering new items kept me looking forward to the next month’s surprises!

The ZenPop Japanese subscription box has four subscription options:

• $42.42/month – monthly subscription
• $41.00/month – 3 months subscription
• $39.59/month – 6 month subscription
• $38.17/month – 12 month subscription

ZenPop ramen box review

In each ZenPop Ramen pack, you’ll find a minimum of seven full-sized servings of Japanese noodles, shipped straight from Japan, making for a hearty meal experience!

The box includes a selection of the latest and most popular instant noodles, plus some limited edition, regional, or seasonal items. You’ll also find favorites like tonkutsu, shoyu, and shio, plus the opportunity to explore dishes like udon, soba, and yakisoba.

Opening every pack feels a bit like a gastronomic journey to Japan. While some flavors and textures might not be for everyone, it offers a fun way to explore Japanese noodle culture from the comfort of your home!

True to their promise, our ZenPop ramen box had seven unique noodle selections.

We wasted no time trying our first ramen, a Hakata Nagahama Ramen from Marutai. Since the little booklet included in the box doesn’t list a lot of information about the ramen, if you want more detailed information on cooking instructions for the ramen, or on specific allergens, you’ll need to browse to the ZenPop website. There’s a QR code in the booklet that links to the ZenPop website.

The information on the website included cooking instructions for our Hakata Nagahama Ramen from Marutai, as well as information on allergens, and a detailed description of the ramen itself.

Using these instructions, we had a tasty bowl of noodles ready in no time. Since Charles is the only meat eater in our family, and this ramen contained pork, he was the taste tester on this one. It was a definite hit! Just look at all those noodles!

Are ZenPop ramen boxes suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

The short answer is: no. All seven of the ramen bowls in our box contained meat or seafood.

ZenPop ramen box cost

The ZenPop ramen subscription box has four options:

• $45.95/month monthly subscription
• $44.53/month 3 months subscription
• $42.12/month 6 month subscription
• $41.71/month 12 month subscription

ZenPop Limited Edition boxes

In addition to the snack, stationary, and ramen boxes, ZenPop also offers limited edition boxes. Limited edition boxes that have themes like the Asobou Box (Japanese Toy Box).

There are new themes with different limited edition products available on a regular basis, so keep checking back.

Only small runs of each limited edition pack are available, and no two packs are ever the same.

ZenPop anime boxes

Are you an anime fan? ZenPop also has an anime subscription box option.

ZenPop anime packs change monthly. Each month offers new themes, with new products. No two packs are ever the same.

After exploring ZenPop’s offerings, our family had an interesting glimpse into Japanese culture.

Want to try ZenPop? Use our ZenPop promo code!

We reached out to ZenPop, and they passed on a coupon code for a 800 Japanese Yen discount on your first order (that’s approximately $5.50 USD)! The discount is automatically applied when you use our link, below.

Get the discount automatically here.

Have you tried ZenPop? What did you think? Share your ZenPop review in the comments!

Picture this: You’re strolling down the vibrant streets of Barcelona, enticed by the irresistible aroma of fresh paella, drawn to the colorful boutiques, and captivated by the lively murmur of locals around you.

But there’s a catch – you don’t speak Spanish.

How will you order that mouth-watering dish or inquire about the beautiful artisan products? Your answer lies in a handheld translator like the Fluentalk T1 Mini, a compact but effective handheld translator that can shatter language barriers.

In this comprehensive review, we pit the new Fluentalk T1 Mini against the established Pocketalk Classic, assessing which device wins out as the essential travel companion and language learning tool.

Whether you’re an adventurous overseas explorer or an enthusiastic language learner, a handheld translator device can make all the difference.

Fluentalk T1 Mini Review

Before we compare the T1 Mini to the Pocketalk, let’s take a look at what the T1 Mini is all about.

As lifelong travelers, we’ve been around the block (or rather, the globe) a few times and stumbled upon our fair share of translation gizmos – some were hits, others were misses, but all had their own funky quirks and perks.

In a rush? See current prices now on the Fluentalk website, and on Amazon here.

So, today’s the day we get up close and personal with the Fluentalk T1 Mini. This cool little gadget is on a mission to make chatting in different languages as easy as pie. Ready to dive in?

Setting up the Fluentalk T1 Mini and first impressions

Setting up the T1 Mini is easy. All you have to do is turn it on, choose your native language, and accept the user agreement. From there it prompts you to connect to Wi-Fi.

After that’s done – and here’s the part I really liked, the Mini automatically activates your one year free global data. No messing with SIM cards, activation plans, or anything. It’s just done for you.

What instantly caught my attention was the T1 Mini’s tiny size.

Weighing in at a little less than 3 oz. (86 g), the screen measures in at about the size of a credit card. The whole device fits into the pocket – a perfect companion for your adventures.

At 3.5 x 2.15 x 0.52 inches, it’s roughly half the size of my Samsung smartphone.

You can get a pretty good feel for the actual size of this little thing when you compare it to the size of a quarter. Although the display is small, it’s easy to read, even in direct sunlight.

The interface is intuitive and easy to use, with simple sliding gestures. To select a language, just tap the option on the screen and scroll through available language options.

Testing voice translation

But at that small size, does it deliver good and reliable translation? The T1 Mini supports real time voice translation in 36 languages and 88 accents, while photo translation supports 39 languages.

The mini is built for one-on-one conversations in real time. When you want the T1 Mini to translate, just click the translation button on the right side. It’s that easy

It automatically recognizes source and target languages based on your presets, eliminating the need for confusing menus or extra buttons.

All you need to do is talk, and it automatically recognizes the language you’re speaking, and translates it (both on screen, and out loud, through the speaker).

The one-click real-time translation is an absolute game-changer when you’re stuck in one of those hair-pulling, “why me?” travel moments. Flight schedules gone haywire, a sudden need for a doctor, or just trying to figure out a bus timetable in a foreign language – that’s when one-click translation truly helps make sense out of the chaos.

Looking for a slightly bigger translator, with slightly bigger battery capacity and a few more features? Check out our review of the Fluentalk T1 original.

Offline translation

One of the standout features of the T1 Mini is its offline translation function – a feature that significantly distinguishes it from the Pocketalk Classic.

Whether you’re hiking in a remote location or strolling in a city with no Wi-Fi, the T1 Mini ensures that you’re never lost in translation. This device supports offline access for 13 offline language pairs, which is an indispensable feature for any traveler.

Note: Of those 13 offline language pairs, the device can hold 4 at a time so if you’re traveling to another country with a different set of languages, make sure to download which languages you’ll likely be needing the next time you’re not offline.

Additionally, the T1 Mini offers global free data roaming for an entire year with its built-in data card. Forget about purchasing additional data or fumbling with foreign SIM cards; this device is ready for action as soon as you step off the plane.

Photo translation

What more? The T1 Mini supports voice translation in 36 languages and 88 accents, while photo translation supports 39 languages. Just point its 5-megapixel camera at an unknown menu or signpost, and it will provide instant translation – an extremely handy feature for any traveler!

The Fluentalk T1 Mini vs. The Pocketalk Classic

The Pocketalk Classic is another heavy hitter in the translation device arena. However, when directly compared to the Fluentalk T1 Mini, a few differences really stand out.

The Pocketalk Classic is slightly heavier and bulkier than the T1 Mini. While not a dealbreaker, the difference in portability is noticeable, especially when you’re on the move for extended periods. Plus, the absence of a lanyard strap in the Pocketalk Classic package is a minor inconvenience when you want to have the device at hand quickly.

In terms of functionality, the Pocketalk Classic supports voice translation for an impressive 82 languages, while the T1 Mini offers translation in 36 languages (88 accents). The Pocketalk Classic may win out if you have a lesser used language you need to translate, like Amharic (Ethiopia), which the T1 Mini doesn’t translate. However, most travelers need translation in more popular languages like French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese (and the other 32 major languages offered by the T1 Mini), so the larger number of languages offered by the Pocketalk really aren’t needed for most travelers.

Here’s another difference between Pocketalk Classic and Fluentalk T1 mini: The Fluentalk T1 mini can automatically recognize source and target languages based on your presets. That means instant activation with a single click, so you can use the T1 mini effortlessly. This is especially helpful for emergencies where you need language support, like customs clearance, or reporting lost items to an airline or the police.

Two major drawbacks of the Pocketalk are that it lacks the convenience of offline translation and photo translation, which the T1 Mini readily provides. These features have often been the difference between smooth communication and frustration during our travels.

Both devices have their strengths and are more than capable of being your language companion in your global adventures.

However, considering the T1 Mini’s added functionalities and convenience factors, we now lean towards the Fluentalk T1 Mini for its comprehensive translation abilities and its user-friendly design.

Safe travels, and never stop exploring!

See prices here.

For some time now, we’ve been on a quest for a reliable power source that can accompany us on car camping trips, but is powerful enough to keep our home essentials running during unforeseen power outages.

Enter the BLUETTI AC180 portable power station, the latest contender from a company well known for quality solar power generators.

Curious? Check out the BLUETTI AC180 here.

With an impressive 1,800 Watts of power, this portable station promises enough energy to run your appliances, charge your devices, and light up your campsite or your home. And, you’ll never have to stress over grid connectivity or running out of power during your off-grid sojourns.

So, is the BLUETTI AC180 a game-changer? Let’s delve into the details with our comprehensive review!

BLUETTI AC180 Review

BLUETTI has been a big name in power stations for a while, and they’ve built a solid reputation.

The AC180 is a nice mix of capability and size, with almost 1,200 Watt hour of battery capacity, paired with an 1,800 watt inverter, meaning it can run virtually any 110 volt kitchen appliance, including refrigerators, air conditioners, heaters, instant pots, skillets, and even large microwave ovens without a sweat. It’s also still very portable at this size and weight, being well under 40 pounds.

The big selling feature of the BLUETTI AC 180C is the combination of affordability, a solid 1,152 watt-hour battery, and a solid brand name.

It’s a well built unit, with solid carrying handles, sturdy buttons, and a well designed interface. It comes with a respectable five year warranty.

The AC180 comes with a car charging cable, power cable, and solar cables with MC4 connectors. The unit has a 12v DC output cigarette lighter, a power delivery Type C port, four Type A ports, and four AC outputs. It also has a Qi wireless standard charging pad on top.

Is the BLUETTI AC180 worth it? Let’s find out.

Specifications

First, a quick look at what’s under the hood:

• 1,800W AC Output / 2,700W Power Lifting capacity
• 1,152Wh battery capacity
• 11 output ports
• Smart control and monitor with BLUETTI App
• Weight: 35.27 pounds
• Battery: LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate)

What matters most to me is that the AC180 can run or charge what I need it to, and that it’s easy to recharge. Let’s take a look at what you can charge with the AC180, and how long the battery lasts.

What devices can the AC180 power?

The AC180 can run anything that takes up to 1,800 Watts to power. This includes your laptop, your smartphone, and most small kitchen appliances.

Want to power a device like a hair dryer or small electric heater? Put the AC180 in Power Lifting mode, and you can run devices like a hair dryer (which is typically around 1800 watts) for a short while.

We already have a 800W and 1,000W power station. They’re fantastic for powering our laptop, phone, and small appliances, but there are a few things we’d like to be able to use easily, which they can’t quite power, like our blender (which tops in at 1,400 watts) and our air fryer (which takes 1,500 watts). In the summer especially, we use these almost daily.

We tested the BLUETTI by running our 1,600W hair dryer on low and high setting. It handled the load with zero issues.

With an 1,800 Watt capacity, the AC180 can easily run our blender or air fryer, with power to spare.

We also want to use our power station to run our fridge or freezer in case of a blackout, and the AC180 is up to that task, as our fridge only takes 680 Watts, and the freezer takes around 350 Watts.

How long will the battery last?

The AC180 is a 1,152Wh LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery, which offers plenty of advantages over traditional lead acid batteries. This includes a longer battery life span, zero maintenance, better safety, more lightweight, and improved discharge and charge efficiency.

Even so, over time, all batteries lose capacity, even excellent batteries like the LiFePO4.

BLUETTI rates the AC180 at 3,500-plus full cycles before the battery can only charge to 80 percent of its original capacity. Basically, that means you can charge and discharge the battery 3,500 times from empty and it will still have 80% of the original capacity. I mean, I can’t imagine using my battery that much – even completely charging it and discharging it once a day for ten years would only give me about 3,650 life cycle. That’s pretty impressive.

The battery is powerful enough to charge a phone 103 times, power a laptop 17 times, or run a typical fan for 26 hours. It can even power a fridge for 17 hours.

It can also charge power tool batteries on unpowered jobsites, recharge the old camper batteries if going offgrid or power your backyard string lights for many nights of enjoyment.

How long does it take to recharge?

The AC180 can be recharged with solar, car, wall charging, or even via a generator.

The fastest way to recharge the AC180 is through wall charging. It only takes 45 minutes to go from zero to 80% charged with a 1,440W AC Input, and it’s fully charged in about 1.2 to 1.6 hours.

For solar charging, it supports a maximum of 500 watts of solar at 10 amps from 12 to 60 volts. Meaning, with it’s max solar input of 500 watts, it can be fully charged in 2.8 to 3.3 hours under ideal conditions of prime sunshine, ideal orientation and low temperature. It’s likely 4 to 5 if conditions aren’t ideal and of course longer if only using a 200w solar panel.

You can even fully top it up within a short period by AC and solar simultaneously, which I think is a pretty cool option.

Car charging is the slowest, with a full charge taking just over 5 hours with a 24V input, or just over 10 hours with a 12V input.

If you find yourself out in the woods, with no option but to charge using a generator, at least it’s a quick charge of 1.3 to 1.8 hours at 1,440W input.

To maintain the battery, BLUETTI says to recharge to 80% every three to six months. We haven’t owned it long enough to see what kind of drop in charge there is after 3 months but with Lipo batteries, it shouldn’t be much.

What ports does it have?

Wondering what you can charge with your power station? There are 11 ports, offering everything from your typical wall charging to USB to a DC car charger and even a wireless charging pad.

• 4 x 120V/15A AC outlets with1,800W total combined (2,700W in Power Boost Mode)
• 1 × USB-C Port (100W Max)
• 4 USB-A Ports:
  • 2 ×USB-A1: 5VDC/3A 15W in total
  • 2 ×USB-A2: 5VDC/3A 15W in total
• 1x 12V DC outlets (12V/10A car outlet)
• 1 x wireless charging pad (15W max)

Unfortunately, the wireless charger built into the unit doesn’t support fast charging, even though it is a 15-watt charger.

One thing I like about the AC180 is that it offers pass through charging, which means you can use the AC180 to charge your device, as the device itself is charging. To be fair, that’s the standard with higher quality power stations, but you sometimes won’t see it on lower quality units.

Check out the BLUETTI AC180 here.

Is the BLUETTI AC180 safe for sensitive electronics?

The BLUETTI AC180 has a pure sine wave inverter, which is the gold standard you’ll need to safely run sensitive electronics like laptops, computers, and even medical equipment.

The AC180 also offers a 20 millisecond switching UPS feature, meaning you can have sensitive devices plugged in, and if the power goes out while your device is plugged in, the battery will simply take over.

The BLUETTI App

The AC180 has both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth app support for Android and iPhone.

We tested the Android app version, which lets you access plenty of settings, including setting charging rates, specifying when ports shut off, monitoring how much power is consumed, and determining how much power is coming into the unit from solar or wall charging. You can even update firmware via the app.

One thing I really liked is that the app will work without an internet connection. The offline Bluetooth mode lets you control the unit when it’s not connected to the internet, during a power outage or when you’re camping. This is really useful in a remote place, as you don’t need your phone to be connected to the internet to control the power station.

I tested the Bluetooth mode, and it ran perfectly.

Display

The display is pretty intuitive and easy to use.

It’s a color LCD that shows input and output Watts, time to charge and discharge, and battery percent with an icon. It does not have a touch screen – you use the buttons to control the display.

Is there a BLUETTI AC180 expansion battery?

One of BLUETTI’s most useful features is the ability to connect to other units for additional battery capacity.

The AC180 can connect to BLUETTI’s 806 watt-hour B80, the 2,048 watt-hour B230, or the 3,072 watt-hour B300 (in Power Bank Mode) for additional battery capacity. You will need a special cable from Bluetti to connect the units.

How loud is the BLUETTI AC180?

There’s a common misconception that solar power stations run completely silently, which just isn’t the case. They’re definitely a world quieter than noisy, pollution-belching gas generators, but they aren’t completely silent, as they need to run fans to keep their electrical components cool (just like how your computer’s fan runs to keep its electronics cool).

We tested the BLUETTI AC180’s noise levels at rest, while charging, and while in use.

Our verdict: It’s not the loudest power station we’ve tested, but it’s definitely not the quietest either.

It was especially annoying when the fan kept going on after we’d charged it to full charge, but left it plugged into the wall. We weren’t charging anything at the time, and it was at room temperature, so it wasn’t likely to be overheating.

We did manage to get it to quiet down quite a bit after peeking at the manual. Here’s a helpful hack for charging the AC180 more quietly using wall charging: Just select Silent for AC charging in the BLUETTI app.

The fan also became louder under heavy load, which is really to be expected.

How heavy is the BLUETTI AC180?

The BLUETTI AC180 weighs in at 35.27 pounds (or 15.99 kg).

To me, that’s a pretty reasonable weight given that there’s a solid 1,800 watt output.

It’s light enough to pack into our vehicle for car camping, but powerful enough to keep at home for backup power in a natural disaster or other power outage.

How does Power Lift mode work?

We’ve talked a little about BLUETTI’s 2,700W Power Lift mode here. It lets you run certain appliances that normally need a much higher power than the continuous 1,800W the AC180 offers.

The Power Lift mode only works with certain pure-resistive heating devices, like hair dryers, electric kettles and heaters. However, the appliance may not run as fast or hot as usual.

Do I need a BLUETTI brand solar panel for solar charging?

BLUETTI recommends using one BLUETTI PV420 solar panel to charge the AC180. That said, you can charge the AC180 with any compatible solar panel, as long as it meets these specifications:

• Open circuit voltage: 12-60V
• Total solar input: Max. 500W
• Equipped with a compatible solar connector.

Is the BLUETTI AC180 worth it?

Overall, we really like the BLUETTI AC180 for our needs as battery backup for our home, and as an on-the-go power source when we’re car camping. With a premium brand name and quality, it’s a great product for its price, offering a lot of power and versatility for a relatively low cost.

Do I wish it was a bit lighter? Yes, but the reality is that there’s a weight trade off when it comes to solar generators – to get a powerful 1,800W generator, you’ll need to have something around 35 pounds (or more!).

While it’s not perfect, with price and weight as potential considerations, it proves to be a solid power source for home and travel needs.

Check out the BLUETTI AC180 here.

BLUETTI AC180 Solar Generator

The AC180, a robust performer packing power, capacity, and style in its smart design, with cutting-edge features including wireless charging and a top-notch mobile app.

– Micki Kosman

Solid 1,800W peak output and powerful 2,700W power lift surge output

Great app support with offline mode

Versatile for home backup and RV camping use

Relatively heavy for capacity

Summary

Whether you’re an avid RVer, or looking for a solar generator for home, the AC180 offers a solid combination of price, power, and portability.

See price here.

4.8