Tag Archives: batteries

BLUETTI Portable Solar Generators spread sustainable love this Valentine’s Day

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Dinner by candlelight might sound romantic, except when it’s because of a power outage. Nothing ruins the mood more than stress, especially when it’s due to not having much-needed electricity to keep the lights on, the wine cool, and the food toasty. Power generators have started becoming a necessity, whether it’s for emergencies at home or for enjoying an outdoor adventure. If you haven’t gotten the memo yet, traditional fuel and gasoline generators are not only outdated and inconvenient, they’re also unsafe for both humans and the planet.

Fortunately, the folks over at BLUETTI have mastered the art and technology of battery-powered portable solar generators to provide clean, safe, and efficient power that you can bring you anywhere. Even better, they’re running a sale this month of hearts to get your loved ones or even yourself one of these helpful partners in living a comfortable modern lifestyle whenever and wherever you need power for your appliances and gadgets.

AC500 & B300S

There’s almost an overwhelming number of choices when it comes to portable power generators, including from BLUETTI’s own ranks. It might even get a bit stressful when you know you’ll have to settle for whatever battery capacity is available when you make the purchase. Fortunately, BLUETTI knows that problem only too well and designed its modular system exactly for that purpose. With the BLUETTI AC500 and B300S System, for example, you can start with the most basic 3,072Wh capacity and then grow your collection to a whopping 18,432Wh of power by adding more B300S modules only when you need it. Even better, you don’t even need to bring all of that with you can only connect as many modules as you actually need.

Click Here to Buy Now: $4,799 $5,099 ($300 off). Hurry, Valentine’s Day deal ends Feb 20th.

AC300 & B300

The BLUETTI AC500 might be the company’s latest champion, but the AC300 and its B300 battery module partner are still in the running as well. With a 3000W pure sine wave inverter, the combo can reach a maximum capacity of 12,288Wh by combining up to four B300 modules in one go. Of course, these batteries will soon need charging themselves, and you can do that either through direct AC input or using solar power if you’ll be off the grid for quite a while.

Click Here to Buy Now: $3,199 $3,898 ($699 off). Hurry, Valentine’s Day deal ends Feb 20th.

AC200 Max

Those who find themselves always going out and about might prefer the all-in-one design of the AC200MAX instead, incorporating both the pure sine wave inverter and a 2,048Wh battery in a single unit. That doesn’t mean you have to give up on flexibility, though. You can still connect up to two B230 or B300 modules for more power, combining the best of both worlds of portability and convenience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1,599 $1,999 ($400 off). Hurry, Valentine’s Day deal ends Feb 20th.

EP500/Pro

BLUETTI EP500 and EP500 Pro System.

“Portable” solar generators don’t necessarily have to be something you can lift with one or two hands. Sometimes, you’ll have to push or pull them on their wheels, especially when they’re too large and too heavy to carry. The BLUETTI EP500 and EP500 Pro definitely fall in that category but for a very good reason. These suitcase-sized power generators carry an astounding 5,100Wh LiFePO4 battery inside them, enough to power your house in an emergency. Connect two of these together, and you can run your home mostly on green power alone.

Click Here to Buy Now: $4,899 $5,799 ($900 off). Hurry, Valentine’s Day deal ends Feb 20th.

B3A, EB55 & EB70S

EB3A

EB55

EB70S

On the opposite side of the spectrum is BLUETTI’s agile lineup, the EB3A, EB55, and EB70S. Designed more for quick outdoor trips where you would need to power your mobile devices or even a small fridge for the ultimate escape from stressful cities. You can even remotely monitor and control these batteries using your smartphone, allowing you to really kick back and relax, spending more time with your loved ones rather than fretting over the battery level.

Click Here to See the Collection

Solar Panels

Things really get interesting when you consider that all these powerful batteries can be charged using the power of the sun alone. In addition to offering a completely green power option, it also means you won’t have to lose your cool when your BLUETTI generator goes red and there isn’t a power outlet in sight. With these BLUETTI solar panels, you aren’t just gathering energy from the sun, you’re gathering energy efficiently even during an overcast day. Enjoy stress-free days indoors or outdoors with your beloved and loved ones with BLUETTI’s quiet, safe, and sustainable portable power storage solutions, now with sweet heart-warming discounts in time for Valentine’s Day.

Click Here for the Portable Solar Panel Collection

The post BLUETTI Portable Solar Generators spread sustainable love this Valentine’s Day first appeared on Yanko Design.

BLUETTI Portable Solar Generators spread sustainable love this Valentine’s Day

Posted on by

Dinner by candlelight might sound romantic, except when it’s because of a power outage. Nothing ruins the mood more than stress, especially when it’s due to not having much-needed electricity to keep the lights on, the wine cool, and the food toasty. Power generators have started becoming a necessity, whether it’s for emergencies at home or for enjoying an outdoor adventure. If you haven’t gotten the memo yet, traditional fuel and gasoline generators are not only outdated and inconvenient, they’re also unsafe for both humans and the planet.

Fortunately, the folks over at BLUETTI have mastered the art and technology of battery-powered portable solar generators to provide clean, safe, and efficient power that you can bring you anywhere. Even better, they’re running a sale this month of hearts to get your loved ones or even yourself one of these helpful partners in living a comfortable modern lifestyle whenever and wherever you need power for your appliances and gadgets.

AC500 & B300S

There’s almost an overwhelming number of choices when it comes to portable power generators, including from BLUETTI’s own ranks. It might even get a bit stressful when you know you’ll have to settle for whatever battery capacity is available when you make the purchase. Fortunately, BLUETTI knows that problem only too well and designed its modular system exactly for that purpose. With the BLUETTI AC500 and B300S System, for example, you can start with the most basic 3,072Wh capacity and then grow your collection to a whopping 18,432Wh of power by adding more B300S modules only when you need it. Even better, you don’t even need to bring all of that with you can only connect as many modules as you actually need.

Click Here to Buy Now: $4,799 $5,099 ($300 off). Hurry, Valentine’s Day deal ends Feb 20th.

AC300 & B300

The BLUETTI AC500 might be the company’s latest champion, but the AC300 and its B300 battery module partner are still in the running as well. With a 3000W pure sine wave inverter, the combo can reach a maximum capacity of 12,288Wh by combining up to four B300 modules in one go. Of course, these batteries will soon need charging themselves, and you can do that either through direct AC input or using solar power if you’ll be off the grid for quite a while.

Click Here to Buy Now: $3,199 $3,898 ($699 off). Hurry, Valentine’s Day deal ends Feb 20th.

AC200 Max

Those who find themselves always going out and about might prefer the all-in-one design of the AC200MAX instead, incorporating both the pure sine wave inverter and a 2,048Wh battery in a single unit. That doesn’t mean you have to give up on flexibility, though. You can still connect up to two B230 or B300 modules for more power, combining the best of both worlds of portability and convenience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1,599 $1,999 ($400 off). Hurry, Valentine’s Day deal ends Feb 20th.

EP500/Pro

BLUETTI EP500 and EP500 Pro System.

“Portable” solar generators don’t necessarily have to be something you can lift with one or two hands. Sometimes, you’ll have to push or pull them on their wheels, especially when they’re too large and too heavy to carry. The BLUETTI EP500 and EP500 Pro definitely fall in that category but for a very good reason. These suitcase-sized power generators carry an astounding 5,100Wh LiFePO4 battery inside them, enough to power your house in an emergency. Connect two of these together, and you can run your home mostly on green power alone.

Click Here to Buy Now: $4,899 $5,799 ($900 off). Hurry, Valentine’s Day deal ends Feb 20th.

B3A, EB55 & EB70S

EB3A

EB55

EB70S

On the opposite side of the spectrum is BLUETTI’s agile lineup, the EB3A, EB55, and EB70S. Designed more for quick outdoor trips where you would need to power your mobile devices or even a small fridge for the ultimate escape from stressful cities. You can even remotely monitor and control these batteries using your smartphone, allowing you to really kick back and relax, spending more time with your loved ones rather than fretting over the battery level.

Click Here to See the Collection

Solar Panels

Things really get interesting when you consider that all these powerful batteries can be charged using the power of the sun alone. In addition to offering a completely green power option, it also means you won’t have to lose your cool when your BLUETTI generator goes red and there isn’t a power outlet in sight. With these BLUETTI solar panels, you aren’t just gathering energy from the sun, you’re gathering energy efficiently even during an overcast day. Enjoy stress-free days indoors or outdoors with your beloved and loved ones with BLUETTI’s quiet, safe, and sustainable portable power storage solutions, now with sweet heart-warming discounts in time for Valentine’s Day.

Click Here for the Portable Solar Panel Collection

The post BLUETTI Portable Solar Generators spread sustainable love this Valentine’s Day first appeared on Yanko Design.

BLUETTI Portable Solar Generators spread sustainable love this Valentine’s Day

Posted on by

Dinner by candlelight might sound romantic, except when it’s because of a power outage. Nothing ruins the mood more than stress, especially when it’s due to not having much-needed electricity to keep the lights on, the wine cool, and the food toasty. Power generators have started becoming a necessity, whether it’s for emergencies at home or for enjoying an outdoor adventure. If you haven’t gotten the memo yet, traditional fuel and gasoline generators are not only outdated and inconvenient, they’re also unsafe for both humans and the planet.

Fortunately, the folks over at BLUETTI have mastered the art and technology of battery-powered portable solar generators to provide clean, safe, and efficient power that you can bring you anywhere. Even better, they’re running a sale this month of hearts to get your loved ones or even yourself one of these helpful partners in living a comfortable modern lifestyle whenever and wherever you need power for your appliances and gadgets.

AC500 & B300S

There’s almost an overwhelming number of choices when it comes to portable power generators, including from BLUETTI’s own ranks. It might even get a bit stressful when you know you’ll have to settle for whatever battery capacity is available when you make the purchase. Fortunately, BLUETTI knows that problem only too well and designed its modular system exactly for that purpose. With the BLUETTI AC500 and B300S System, for example, you can start with the most basic 3,072Wh capacity and then grow your collection to a whopping 18,432Wh of power by adding more B300S modules only when you need it. Even better, you don’t even need to bring all of that with you can only connect as many modules as you actually need.

Click Here to Buy Now: $4,799 $5,099 ($300 off). Hurry, Valentine’s Day deal ends Feb 20th.

AC300 & B300

The BLUETTI AC500 might be the company’s latest champion, but the AC300 and its B300 battery module partner are still in the running as well. With a 3000W pure sine wave inverter, the combo can reach a maximum capacity of 12,288Wh by combining up to four B300 modules in one go. Of course, these batteries will soon need charging themselves, and you can do that either through direct AC input or using solar power if you’ll be off the grid for quite a while.

Click Here to Buy Now: $3,199 $3,898 ($699 off). Hurry, Valentine’s Day deal ends Feb 20th.

AC200 Max

Those who find themselves always going out and about might prefer the all-in-one design of the AC200MAX instead, incorporating both the pure sine wave inverter and a 2,048Wh battery in a single unit. That doesn’t mean you have to give up on flexibility, though. You can still connect up to two B230 or B300 modules for more power, combining the best of both worlds of portability and convenience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1,599 $1,999 ($400 off). Hurry, Valentine’s Day deal ends Feb 20th.

EP500/Pro

BLUETTI EP500 and EP500 Pro System.

“Portable” solar generators don’t necessarily have to be something you can lift with one or two hands. Sometimes, you’ll have to push or pull them on their wheels, especially when they’re too large and too heavy to carry. The BLUETTI EP500 and EP500 Pro definitely fall in that category but for a very good reason. These suitcase-sized power generators carry an astounding 5,100Wh LiFePO4 battery inside them, enough to power your house in an emergency. Connect two of these together, and you can run your home mostly on green power alone.

Click Here to Buy Now: $4,899 $5,799 ($900 off). Hurry, Valentine’s Day deal ends Feb 20th.

B3A, EB55 & EB70S

EB3A

EB55

EB70S

On the opposite side of the spectrum is BLUETTI’s agile lineup, the EB3A, EB55, and EB70S. Designed more for quick outdoor trips where you would need to power your mobile devices or even a small fridge for the ultimate escape from stressful cities. You can even remotely monitor and control these batteries using your smartphone, allowing you to really kick back and relax, spending more time with your loved ones rather than fretting over the battery level.

Click Here to See the Collection

Solar Panels

Things really get interesting when you consider that all these powerful batteries can be charged using the power of the sun alone. In addition to offering a completely green power option, it also means you won’t have to lose your cool when your BLUETTI generator goes red and there isn’t a power outlet in sight. With these BLUETTI solar panels, you aren’t just gathering energy from the sun, you’re gathering energy efficiently even during an overcast day. Enjoy stress-free days indoors or outdoors with your beloved and loved ones with BLUETTI’s quiet, safe, and sustainable portable power storage solutions, now with sweet heart-warming discounts in time for Valentine’s Day.

Click Here for the Portable Solar Panel Collection

The post BLUETTI Portable Solar Generators spread sustainable love this Valentine’s Day first appeared on Yanko Design.

BLUETTI at CES 2023: Shaping a Better Tomorrow with Green Energy

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The more we become dependent on electronic devices, the more we become beholden to electricity. It’s a resource that many of us take for granted, expecting that it will always be there when we need it. Power shortages and outages, natural disasters, and remote locations, however, shatter those illusions, often leading to inconvenience or downright unlivable circumstances. The gasoline-chugging generators of old are no longer viable solutions, and battery-powered power stations have risen to the challenge of providing safe, quiet, and clean energy when access to the power grid is impossible. Of these, BLUETTI’s name is one that soars high above blue skies, so we had a little chat with them at CES 2023 to learn more about their past, their present, and their future vision for a greener tomorrow.

Blue Skies and Innovation

Bluetti AC300 & B300

Every company has an origin story, that one critical point in time when the seed of the company’s vision started to take root. Sometimes, that origin is immediately expressed in the company’s name. Other times, it is obscured by the company’s history. BLUETTI’s beginning might not be as dramatic as, say, Apple’s or Google’s, but its name carries a rather interesting background that explains its rather unusual moniker.

It’s almost too easy to presume that BLUETTI is an Italian word, and unsurprisingly, that has caused confusion about its pronunciation. The rather surprising truth is that BLUETTI is actually composed of a word and an acronym. The “BLUE” refers to “Blue Sky,” a reference to the company’s hope for a better Earth with blue skies instead of smog-filled heavens. The rest of the name refers to “Tomorrow, Technology, Innovation,” the pillars of the company’s commitment to supporting a sustainable lifestyle through green energy storage solutions.

The exact meaning of its name may not be that obvious to the world at large, but its spirit is easily witnessed in BLUETTI’s growing range of products. You might not know what the letters of its name stand for, but you’ll definitely know the promise that the company makes. Providing a more sustainable power source has always been BLUETTI’s rallying cry, one that has resounded among many customers if the latest crowdfunding figures are to be considered.

Wisdom of the Crowds

BLUETTI’s latest run on Indiegogo for the new AC500 modular power station and its B300S battery module partner raised a whopping $12 million from more than 5,000 backers. If that isn’t clear proof of belief in the brand, we don’t know what is. Given the prices for these portable power stations, that’s not an easy commitment you can make on a whim. It’s not hard to see, however, why so many people put their trust in BLUETTI.

Taking the AC500 and B300S as examples, the company was able to iterate, innovate, and improve on its already successful modular design, a design that delivers power in a mobile and flexible form. In addition to providing a wider variety of power outputs, the AC500 also ups the game by allowing as many as six 3,072Wh battery modules to be connected to the 5000W inverter for a jaw-dropping total of 18,432Wh of power. You can hot-swap these batteries at any time, adding or removing modules as needed. The connectors have also been redesigned to be easier to hold and handle, and resemble the nozzle of a gas pump that many drivers and car owners in the US would be familiar with.

That latter detail, though small, is an example of what keeps BLUETTI at the top of its game and above its peers. It keeps on innovating, doing intensive research for its target local market and adjusting its designs and campaigns around the American lifestyle and power situation. Multiple problems with power grid outages and disasters that affect power distribution have had very critical effects on people’s productivity and entertainment, which is where BLUETTI’s power stations come to the rescue. Its portable power stations and solar generators don’t consume fossil energy, don’t make noise, and don’t emit poisonous gas, all in line with the growing sustainability awareness among customers, both in the US and around the world.

It might come as a surprise, then, that all of BLUETTI’s designs are made in-house at their headquarters in China. It is a testament to the team’s talent and expertise in designing products for a certain demographic outside of their own. From the texture, shape, and size of the power stations, to the AC and DC connections, to the interactive panel, BLUETTI’s designs demonstrate a deep knowledge of what their customers need and what they want, and the success of their products even after crowdfunding is testament to that.

Innovation on a Larger Scale

Bluetti EP900 & B500

The battery-powered, solar-charged power station is relatively young, only three or so years old, and there is still plenty to be done and plenty of innovations yet to be made. Even BLUETTI admits there’s still plenty of room for growth, and it is setting its eyes on bigger things while keeping its feet planted firmly on solid ground. Its line of portable power stations isn’t going away, that’s for sure, but individual and small homes aren’t the only ones that can use clean and green energy storage.

The company’s next gamble is the EP900 and its partner, the B500 battery module. Big in size and capacity, the total package can provide as much as 79kWh of power at the flip of a switch, at least when combining 16 9kWh modules together. While it will definitely be overkill for camping, it will be necessary to power a whole house or even a small or medium size business (SMB). Given how these batteries can be charged using solar energy alone, that means you can almost run the whole house or business on completely green power. The EP900 marks BLUETTI’s entry into the residential power station market, and this standards-compliant power station is expected to launch sometime in March or April.

While the power stations provide sustainable energy, there might be lingering concerns about the sustainability of the batteries themselves. Unfortunately, those are unavoidable at this point in time, just as how many consumer electronics can’t get rid of non-sustainable materials and processes completely just yet. BLUETTI, however, is also doing due diligence in making sure it doesn’t become part of the problem that it’s trying to solve. With longevity that goes on for five years or more and warranties that can run up to 10 years, the company’s power stations are in for the long haul. It is also in talks with its partners in the US to make sure that batteries are recycled or disposed of properly to prevent them from becoming planet killers themselves.

Blue Sky, Green Tomorrow

BLUETTI is hardly the only player in this nascent market, and it definitely has some tough competition ahead. The company always has its doors open for new customers and also wants to point existing ones to resources that can help them make the most out of their power stations. The BLUETTI Support YouTube channel, for example, has plenty of guides for different products. The Official BLUETTI channel, on the other hand, not only has announcements and promotional materials but also videos on how BLUETTI can and has changed lives for the better. Some even found love through their shared love for the innovative power stations.

Whether it’s for an outdoor weekend trip or for an unexpected power outage, BLUETTI’s power stations stand ready to supply much-needed energy with none of the harmful consequences of traditional generators. More importantly, however, the company is paving the way for a future with more sustainable energy storage, no matter the need. From the small portable power stations to the upcoming residential line, BLUETTI will continue to innovate to help keep the lights on and keep the skies blue for today, tomorrow, and beyond.

The post BLUETTI at CES 2023: Shaping a Better Tomorrow with Green Energy first appeared on Yanko Design.

This super-thin MagSafe power bank has a trick to keep your iPhone standing

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Although it was terribly late to the wireless charging party, Apple managed to one-up everyone else by adding something that it already had a lot of experience with. Adding magnets to the equation sounds almost trivial, but it’s a small change that made the technology not only more convenient but also more flexible. Now there are dozens of magnetic wireless charging accessories, including those certified for Apple’s MagSafe branding, that take advantage of this development. Unsurprisingly, some are better designed than others, especially when it comes to both appearance and usability. This power bank concept, for example, is designed not only to keep your phone alive before you reach home but also to keep it standing so you can watch your favorite videos in comfort.

Designer: Eli Lan

Power banks are old news, of course, but they have always carried with them some level of inconvenience in exchange for their portable batteries. Most require you to wrestle with cables to charge your phone, making it difficult to use the phone at the same time. Others do come in cases that enclose the device, but it’s an all-or-nothing situation with these. Magnetic wireless charging thankfully mitigates some of those problems, leaving enough room for innovation and creativity in design.

This STRICKERS concept, for example, utilizes an ultra-thin power bank that magnetically attaches to the back of a phone, most likely an iPhone. Current technologies do allow such a small pack to have a 10,000mAh battery capacity so that it won’t add too much bulk to your phone’s back. It could actually be thicker in reality, but at least you don’t have to stick it to the phone if you’re not using it, unlike bulky battery cases.

What makes STRICKERS really special, however, is the sheet of bendable silicone material that turns the power bank into a smartphone stand. Most accessories of this kind utilize awkward rings or kickstands, but this design allows the stand to stay flat and stay out of the way when you don’t need it. And since the power bank uses magnets, it is possible to use the stand in both vertical and horizontal positions, breaking the mold of limited phone stands.

Despite this mix of convenient features, the power bank remains visually simple. The power bank’s form itself is almost like a mirror of the iPhone’s current design, while the silicone stand brings not only a contrasting material but also a better grip compared to slippery glass or metal. The design also leaves plenty of room for different colorways to match available iPhone options. This sadly remains in the realm of ideas, though, but it’s a shining example of the kind of designs that are now possible, all thanks to the addition of a few small magnets.

The post This super-thin MagSafe power bank has a trick to keep your iPhone standing first appeared on Yanko Design.

EcoFlow River 2 Portable Power Station Review: A Capable Outdoor Sidekick

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PROS:


  • Very light and portable

  • Fast AC charging

  • Remote phone control

  • USB-C port can be used for input

CONS:


  • Handle position makes carrying a bit awkward

  • No wireless charging despite new design

  • USB-C output capped at 60W

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

With a truly portable body, solid features, fast AC charging, and a sweet price point, the EcoFlow River 2 lets travelers and adventurers just get up and go, leaving their battery anxieties well behind.

We have become so dependent on our electronic devices that many of us get anxiety attacks when their batteries go red and we’re nowhere near a wall socket. There are plenty of power banks available today, but they’re only capable of handling smartphones and a few low-power laptops just two or three times at best. For anything else, you might be more interested in the new portable power stations that can power even some appliances, including a whole house. That kind of power might be overkill for some, especially since they come in large and unwieldy bodies that cost as much as they weigh. For simpler cases, you might be better off with smaller, lighter, and more affordable options, so we take the new EcoFlow River 2 for a run to see if it can meet those demands.

Aesthetics

As with any second-generation product, the EcoFlow River 2 has been able to learn from the lessons of its predecessors. Given the gap between the first and second EcoFlow Rivers, there has definitely been plenty of lessons to serve as the foundations of a better product. Fortunately, EcoFlow did seem to have benefited from hindsight, allowing it to turn the River 2 into a sleeker and more compact power station that no longer looks like a car battery.

The biggest change you will notice comparing the two generations is that the River 2 has a more refined appearance thanks to its dual-tone color scheme and flat top. The large carrying handle no longer arcs over the top but instead juts out from the back. That makes it easier to stash the power station away in cramped spaces and put things on top of it. Having the handle extend to one side only also reduces the space it needs to occupy. This helps give the box a cleaner look, but relocating the carrying handle does have its share of consequences as well.

The EcoFlow River 2 also looks tidier because of how the ports and vents are all arranged. Granted, there are now fewer of them compared to the first River power station, but the needs of devices and their charging methods have also become simpler since then. All the output ports are now in the front, while the charging ports are all on the back. There is actually nothing at the sides or on the top to mar those clean surfaces, giving the power station a more streamlined appearance. The black and silver color combination is also more in line with the rest of EcoFlow’s power stations, giving the brand a more coherent and consistent visual identity.

Despite the reduction of ports, the River 2 portable power station still offers a standard set of features for both AC-powered appliances and gadgets that charge over DC. There are still standard ports for different charging methods, including solar power. You still have an LCD screen to monitor the battery’s status, though it’s now a monochrome display, perhaps to save on power consumption. The one thing that has disappeared, though, is the LED flashlight which is honestly pointless at this size and intensity. A phone’s torch function or a proper flashlight will be more useful.

Ergonomics

After having reviewed some heavy-duty power stations that can power a house or even charge an electric car, it’s quite refreshing to finally have one that is accurately portable and that won’t break your back or your bank account, for that matter. At 7.7lbs, there’s definitely still quite a bit of heft, but considering what it’s capable of doing, that’s not asking too much. Of course, it will have some limitations considering the battery capacity, but it is designed to be more agile and portable for people who need to get up and going quickly rather than for those who need an alternative to the power grid.

Carrying the EcoFlow River 2, however, might be difficult for some other purpose. With the carrying handle now at the back, the box’s center of gravity is changed when you lift it up. There will be an uneven distribution of weight, and it could make carrying River 2 more awkward and uncomfortable. The body of the power station will be extending sideways and could end up hitting your leg or other things along your way, depending on who you’re carrying it. The good news is that it’s less of a problem with the River 2’s smaller and lighter body than it is for its bigger siblings, the River 2 Max and River 2 Pro.

Since all the ports are now consolidated and limited to two sides only, it’s also easier to manage the cables that will be sticking out of the power station. Plugging in those cables is also easy because there are no flaps to cover the sockets. There are, however, switches for the AC and DC ports but none for the USB ports. These switches can be pressed manually or toggled via a mobile app. The AC and DC input for charging are located on the back right under the carrying handle. That might actually make it a little bit cumbersome to push cables in because your hand might hit the handle in the process.

One of the biggest ergonomic upgrades of the EcoFlow River 2 is that you don’t actually have to even touch it to control it. Now that it has support for connecting to a phone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, you can toggle switches and change settings conveniently with a few taps. The companion mobile app is quite easy to understand and use, and it gives you the right amount of information to keep tabs on how much power you’re taking in and pushing out. Of course, the built-in LCD screen can provide some of that as well, but it’s more convenient to do so from a larger display.

Performance

The EcoFlow River 2 carries a 256Wh battery of the LiFePO4 kind. This is, by now, the most common kind of battery used by portable power stations because of its safety, reliability, and longevity. It will take more than 3,000 charging cycles (zero to full) before it starts to lose its full capacity. That means this power station is here for the long haul, and you’re more likely to replace it with a new model sooner than for it to become unusable.

With that battery capacity, the River 2 can output 300W of power or 600W if you’re using EcoFlow’s X-Boost. In theory, that’s enough to support even water heaters or coffee makers, but that might be pushing your luck. The portable power station is admittedly on the small and low side, which limits what it can power. It can keep a refrigerator running for 3 hours, for example, but only the small, car-type ones that can be powered with 60W DC. The River 2’s AC two 110 AC outlets are better for powering small appliances or charging devices that can’t be charged over USB.

There is no wireless charging, despite the flat surface of the River 2’s top. It’s less of a critical flaw and more of a missed opportunity, especially with many devices supporting wireless charging these days. It would have definitely been a welcome convenience, especially when you imagine how you’d simply place your iPhone on top of the power station and then sit back and relax under the sun or the stars. Then again, that same iPhone can charge via USB anyway, or even with an AC charger if necessary.

As for those USB ports, the EcoFlow River 2 has two USB-A ports and a single USB-C port. The latter maxes out at 60W, which is fine for phones and tablets but is barely sufficient for more power-hungry laptops. What makes this port special is that, unlike other portable power stations, it functions both as output as well as input, meaning you can charge the power station itself via USB-C, provided you have one of the more powerful 60W or 100W power bricks. It’s not going to be fast, but it’s convenient when you don’t have the AC charging cord with you.

Charging is actually where this new portable power station shines. In addition to USB-C charging, which is still uncommon even for power stations of this size, the River 2 supports the usual charging options of AC, solar, and car charging. At the maximum 360W (with X-Stream) input, AC charging only takes up an hour to go from zero to full, just enough time for you to pack your things for an outdoor adventure. Going completely green with solar charging at 110W max does take longer at around 3 hours, but it might be your only option when you’re already camping under the wide skies. Unfortunately, you can’t combine charging methods, even AC and USB-C, but that might not make much sense for a battery of this size anyway.

Like many of EcoFlow’s power stations, the River 2 also has an EPS or Emergency Power Supply feature that can automatically switch from AC input to direct DC output in just 30ms. That’s fast enough to prevent a desktop computer from powering down or any connected appliance from being interrupted. The battery capacity makes it less viable as a complete power grid replacement, but that’s hardly the point of this power station anyway. The EcoFlow River 2 is designed to be agile and light on its feet, freeing you to move and go as you please without being weighed down, literally and figuratively.

Sustainability

Almost no power station at this point has made sustainability a core focus of their designs, and the River 2 is unfortunately similar. While these battery-powered boxes do offer a more sustainable alternative to fuel-chugging generators, their very nature isn’t as eco-friendly. There’s clearly a ton of plastic used, especially with their enclosures, regardless of the use of metal for the internal frame. We’re still hoping that these companies will soon pay particular attention to the materials and processes they use to make sustainability a major bullet point.

Unlike larger power stations that can be used to power a whole house, solar charging feels more like an extra perk than a selling point for the EcoFlow River 2. It’s something you’ll want to use for convenience when charging the battery outdoors rather than pulling from your car’s battery. Given its size and purpose, it might be more efficient to charge it from a wall socket at full blast, but it at least offers you the option to choose solar if you’re not in a rush.

Value

Not everyone needs a full-blown power generator the size of a suitcase, especially when traveling light. Some might only need what would be the equivalent of a dozen power banks that can power small AC appliances. It’s for these people that the EcoFlow River 2 shines the brightest, especially with its $229 price tag.

There are actually few power stations in the market that offer this kind of well-balanced quality in a small, compact package. Some are cheaper but also offer a lower battery capacity with fewer ports and a cumbersome design. Others have a bit more power but are also heavier and proportionally more expensive.

Verdict

Picking out a portable power station these days is almost like choosing a smartphone. Disregarding brand, the decision always involves making a series of compromises on features and price. For power stations, size and weight become critical factors, especially for people who find themselves spending brief periods outdoors more often than not. For these people, it isn’t just important to have power but to have that power available in a flash.

Having a lightweight body with a decent battery capacity already gives the EcoFlow River 2 an edge, but being able to charge itself in just an hour puts it at the top. Yes, we wished it had wireless charging and a 100W USB-C output, but these would be “nice to have” rather than critical needs. It won’t be powering your whole house in an emergency, but it will be able to provide critical power to the most important things in your life, regardless of the situation. When you need a solid and truly portable companion for your modern life on the go, it’s hard to go wrong with the EcoFlow River 2.

The post EcoFlow River 2 Portable Power Station Review: A Capable Outdoor Sidekick first appeared on Yanko Design.

This expandable energy storage system will never let your home go dark ever again

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There has been an increase in the need for emergency or portable sources of power in light of many natural and man-made disasters in recent years. Unsurprisingly, the consumer market was quick to answer the need, producing multiple classes of portable power generators that stretch what the word “portable” means. There’s almost one such giant battery in a box for every size or need; some can even power a few home appliances in a pinch. Few, however, can really claim to power an entire house for days or even a week just on batteries that have been charged for a little over three hours at most. That’s the enticing proposition that the SuperBase V is making, offering a convenient and stress-free solution to power a house during an emergency or, better yet, provide completely green energy to an entire household.

Designer: Zendure

Click Here to Buy Now: $2499 $4599 (46% off). Hurry, less than 48 hours left! Raised over $3,200,000.

At the heart of the SuperBase V’s promise is its 6.4kWh Semi-Solid State Battery or SSB, a type of battery that offers 42% more energy per pound compared to the Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery used in almost all portable power stations today. In addition to a higher energy capacity in the same battery size, SSBs are also regarded to be safer, even when the battery is damaged. Alone, the SuperBase V (V6400 model) is already capable of enough power at 3,800W for a wide variety of appliances, especially with its plethora of ports and sockets that can support both 120V and 240V output at the same time. But, as they say, that is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

You can easily attach a 6.4kWh Satellite Battery on top of the SuperBase V to double its capacity, but if that’s still not enough, you can connect two base units and up to eight Satellite Batteries for a whopping capacity of 64kWh with 7,600W of output. Depending on your household’s use, that can last you a little over a week without ever connecting to the power grid. This much power opens up a lot of possibilities, including being able to charge a single Tesla Model 3 for a range of 272 miles. Or you can use Zendure’s dual EV outlet home panel to keep two EVs juiced up at the same time.

With such a big battery, you might worry about how long it will take to actually charge the SuperBase V, and you might be shocked at the figures. With a regular AC outlet, the energy storage can draw a maximum of 3,600W and charge the SuperBase V fully in about two hours. You can even charge it from a standard 3,600W Level 2 EV charger at charging stations for a little over two hours. You can go completely green with 3,000W solar power only, and you’ll only wait around three hours before you’re ready to use the SuperBase V again. If you’re really pressed for time, though, you can combine that solar charging with AC or EV charging for a 6,600W total input, nearly having the charging time.

Despite its large battery capacity and powerful features, the SuperBase V is designed to be easy to use and surprisingly easy to move around. The Semi-Solid State SuperBase V6400, specifically, has motorized rear wheels so that you won’t have to strain your body pulling the power station. SuperBase V also brings back the “plug-and-play” slogan of yesteryears, getting you up and running quickly with little fuss or worry. And when you’ve finally finished your setup, you can rely on the SuperBase V to be your uninterruptible power supply (UPS), so you won’t have to worry about critical work or games getting cut off when the power disappears.

More than just an emergency backup power, the SuperBase V is also an intelligent energy management system that lets you monitor, manage, and customize your energy use to help reduce your energy bill. You can also easily connect to Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa for hands-free control of the power station. Starting at just $3,799 for a single SuperBase V6400 base station ($2,499 for the LiFePO4 model), you will be able to rest easy knowing that you and your loved ones won’t have to spend a stressful night in the dark during a power outage.

Click Here to Buy Now: $2499 $4599 (46% off). Hurry, less than 48 hours left! Raised over $3,200,000.

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Anker 757 PowerHouse Portable Power Station Review: a heavyweight in more ways than one

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PROS:


  • Super-fast 1000W charging

  • Effective cooling system

  • Bright LED light bar

  • Plenty of power and ports for many use cases

CONS:


  • Very heavy

  • A bit expensive

  • No water or dust resistance

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

While it is a heavyweight in both price and mass, the Anker 757 PowerHouse power station offers a suitable balance of power, flexibility, and charging speed you won't find elsewhere.

When you’re away from a power socket and need to top up your phone, a simple power bank is more than enough. Some can even charge a laptop or at least keep it from discharging quickly. When you need to power up plenty of devices and a few appliances, however, you will definitely need something that’s bigger, not just in battery capacity but also in size. Portable power stations have been popping up left and right, providing plenty of options to choose from. Unfortunately, that also sometimes makes it harder to make a decision, especially when so many of them sound so similar. That said, there are still only a handful of notable players in this market, and Anker is one of the newest to jump into the scene. The brand is quite well known for its portable power banks for mobile devices, so we take the 757 PowerHouse for a spin to see if it also has some of that Anker magic.

Designer: Anker

Aesthetics

Truth be told, the Anker 757 PowerHouse is no looker, but then again, most of its kind isn’t either, anyway. Portable power stations, sometimes also called portable solar generators, have only been around for a few years, so it’s not exactly surprising to see that their designs haven’t matured to the point of being called “beautiful.” There is a greater focus on durability, safety, utility, and functionality than aesthetics at this point, and this battery in a large box definitely exhibits those properties.

That’s not to say that the 757 PowerHouse is unattractive. In a certain angle and light, it actually has a distinct personality to it. The contrast between the black body and silver edges is tasteful, and the way those edges cross over at the top is a nice touch. The blue accents on the ventilation slots and USB ports, along with the long LED strip, even give it a pinch of cyberpunk aesthetics. There is also a large, 5-inch LCD screen underneath that light bar for showing necessary information. That screen also adds a little something to the PowerHouse’s hi-tech looks.

Make no mistake, despite the brushed metal appearance of the edges and the rugged style of the power station, the 757 PowerHouse’s skin is made of plastic. Perhaps the more disappointing aspect is that it doesn’t have any certified water or dust resistance either, which is an ironic omission given this device is meant to be used outdoors.

Like most portable power station makers save for EcoFlow, Anker chose to stick with a traditional box design with one exception. There are two large handles on the top sides designed to assist in carrying this hefty power source. There is no way to get those handles out of the way, though, so they will always be sticking out of its sides no matter what. That could prove to be a stumbling block when you’re trying to cram the 757 PowerHouse in narrow spaces.

Ergonomics

If you were expecting a large battery such as this would be heavy, you won’t be disappointed by the Anker 757 PowerHouse. Then again, you might actually be more disappointed that it’s not exactly as portable as its name suggests. At 43.9lbs (19.9kg), it definitely requires some upper body strength to lift and move around. The placement of the sturdy handles definitely helps, but not by much. One should always be careful when lifting and carrying a heavy load such as this, and it might be wiser to employ something like a trolley if you find yourself moving it around more often than not.

Usability is critical for power stations because the last thing you want in a power outage is to fumble for controls and covers. The 757 PowerHouse definitely makes it easy since all output ports except the car charger are actually already open, ready to be used at any time. All these ports are also located on the front, making cable management easier by having all cords coming out from only one side, at least as far as output power is concerned.

To charge the power station itself, you’ll have to open the flap on the back to expose the AC input port as well as the solar and car charging ports. Fortunately, there is no separate charging brick needed to fill the 757 PowerHouse, making it easier to store and carry around without having to worry about leaving a critical accessory behind.

Performance

The Anker 757 PowerHouse carries a 1229Wh battery inside that’s capable of putting out 1500W of power, 2400W if you’re really pushing it with power surge. Like many modern power stations, it uses Lithium Iron Phosphate or LiFePO4, the same type of battery used in electric vehicles. Compared to the typical Lithium-ion battery type used in smartphones and laptops, LiFePO4 is considered not only safe but also longer lasting, able to stay healthy for 3,000 charging cycles.

Just with numbers alone, the power station is capable of handling even a 360W refrigerator for almost three hours or a 700W microwave in short bursts. Charging mobile devices and laptops is obviously no problem at that rate, and it can cycle through charging dozens of times over. You can even use the 757 PowerHouse as an uninterruptible power supply or UPS with a switchover time of under 20ms. Of course, the overall number of hours the box can remain powered up will depend on how many devices are connected at the same time. That 1500W output, for example, has to be shared across all six AC outlets.

There is definitely no shortage of output port options to keep devices and appliances running, no matter the situation. As mentioned, there are six AC ports, three of which are of the three-pronged socket type. For DC output, there are four 12W USB-A ports, one 60W USB-C port, and one 100W USB-C port. All of these, including the 120W car socket, can be used simultaneously. The bright and helpful LCD display gives all the stats you need to keep on top of your power consumption, including how much power devices are drawing. Despite the very flat top, the 757 PowerHouse, unfortunately, doesn’t have a wireless charging pad.

Where Anker’s largest portable power station really shines is charging the battery itself. With AC power alone, the 757 PowerHouse can take in 1000W of power for an extremely fast charging experience. Going from 2% to full took only 1.3 hours, which is close to Anker’s advertised 1.5-hour total charging time. Of course, you can also go completely green by charging off the sun, and with three solar panels for a total of 300W of sun power, you can fully charge the PowerHouse in under four hours.

Given the fast charging speed and its impressive output, you might think that the Anker 757 PowerHouse will often run hot or, alternatively, be very loud. It was a pleasant surprise to discover that was not the case at all, and the box remained at most warm to the touch during its 1000W charging period. It does have fans inside, and they will spin after a certain point, but they are actually quiet and barely audible at worst.

Sustainability

Portable power stations are a relatively younger market, at least compared to their smaller power bank cousins. Like many mass-produced consumer electronics at that stage, it is more focused on establishing a solid foundation, even if it means making sustainability less of a priority. A bit ironic given their “green” features, but not entirely surprising. As such, there is plenty of plastic and environment-unfriendly materials used in the construction of every single 757 PowerHouse.

That said, there are two things that do go in favor of Anker in this regard. One is that, by nature, portable power stations like these are more sustainable compared to traditional gasoline generators. They are quieter and safer than those fuel-chugging machines, and they don’t directly increase carbon emissions.

More importantly, they can actually go fully green by charging using only solar power. It admittedly takes longer than direct AC charging, but it’s also more flexible when there are no power sockets available in the first place. Unfortunately, this particular power station doesn’t support dual input from both solar and AC, which could make charging more efficient and take up less time.

Value

The Anker Power 757 PowerHouse is a rather large battery-powered generator, though it is by no means the largest nor the heaviest in its class. At $1,399, it is also more expensive than some of its peers that carry the same battery capacity, and that figure might cause many buyers to reconsider their choice. It’s also strange that, for something designed for outdoor use, it isn’t guaranteed to be safe from water and dust. Fortunately, those might be the only deal-breakers for this portable power station, and some people might be willing to overlook those flaws for everything else they will be able to gain.

For its size, the 757 PowerHouse definitely packs an appropriate amount of power that it makes available through a wide variety of ports. It has plenty to run small appliances, whether during an emergency or for weekend camping, and its fast-charging feat means you won’t have to wait long before it’s full and ready to go. There are only a few competitors that can match its offer, though each has its own set of drawbacks. It’s always a delicate balancing act, and the Anker 757 PowerHouse definitely pulls it off with grace.

Verdict

As the number of portable power stations grows, picking out the perfect one also becomes harder. There really is no perfect choice, and you’ll often find yourself having to compromise between a few factors instead. Whether it’s price, portability, or power, you will eventually have to make a choice on which is more important. While hardly perfect, the Anker 757 PowerHouse presents an acceptable balance. Its 1500W power allows it to address almost every need, and its 1000W charging speed is pretty much unmatched. You will need to prepare to make a rather heavy investment and prepare your back for an equally heavy load, but it’s hard to get it wrong with a balanced all-rounder like this heavyweight PowerHouse.

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Bluetti AC200P Power Station Review: Clean, Green, and Heavy

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PROS:


  • Can be charged using solar power only

  • Includes two wireless charging pads

  • Has enough power for small appliances

  • LCD touch display for information and controls

CONS:


  • Very heavy

  • Separate power adapter

  • Single 60W USB-C port

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Bluetti AC200P offers excellent value for those who need portable or emergency power that doesn't put an additional burden on the environment.

The need for emergency power generators has never been greater. Erratic weather patterns, natural and man-made disasters, and power shortages all seem to conspire to make these generators a staple in every home. At the same time, people have started to appreciate the great outdoors even more. Camping and glamping have become trendy, both of which require power to support many modern amenities, especially smartphones. Typical fuel-chugging generators, however, can no longer be trusted because of the dangers they pose not just to people but also to the planet. A new breed of battery-powered generators has risen to the challenge of delivering safe and sustainable convenience, no matter the situation. The Bluetti AC200P is one such power generator, and we gave it a test drive to see if it checks all the right boxes.

Designer: Bluetti

Aesthetics

The Bluetti AC200P isn’t going to win any beauty pageant, and expecting it to be stylish and elegant is missing the point entirely. It’s not ugly, just to be clear, but its appearance is informed totally by its purpose. It is, after all, a power generator that is expected to experience some rough handling, even when just at home. It is designed to be durable, rugged, and, most importantly, well-protected against accidents that could damage the battery inside and potentially lead to a disaster.

The AC200P comes as a very large box that definitely looks the part of a rugged piece of equipment. At 16.5 x 11 x 15.2 inches (42 x 28 x 38.65cm), it is no dwarf, and its 60.6 lbs (27.5kg) weight is no laughing matter. It almost looks like a large speaker or amp, but it’s definitely less portable than those given what it’s packing inside.

The silver aluminum frame contrasts nicely with the flame-retardant ABS plastic that covers all the power generator’s sides. The front, sides, and top faces have diagonal ridges that further emphasize the device’s rugged design. Four rubber feet at the bottom keep the entire thing from slipping on smooth surfaces, not that its weight would make that likely to happen. Molded handles on each side at the top try to make it easier to carry the AC200P, but that doesn’t change the fact that it’s a heavyweight.

All of the interesting parts of this Bluetti power generator are on the front, where almost all but the two input ports can be found. All these openings are covered with rubber flaps, further protecting them from dust, moisture, and liquids, banishing any remaining doubt about the ruggedness of this device. Smack in the middle of the ports is a colorful LCD screen that not only displays information but also allows users to change the generator’s settings.

At the end of the day, the AC200P’s looks are a perfect match to its purpose. Rugged and utilitarian, it doesn’t spare any room for unnecessary embellishments that might get in the way of its use. A straight-out box with no protruding parts, this power generator is meant to be stuffed in places, hidden from view, and at times even forgotten, at least until the next power outage or camping trip requires its presence.

Ergonomics

The Bluetti AC200P is easy to use yet also a bit of a pain to set up. The biggest factor that weighs it down is its own weight. For something billed as a portable generator, it takes a great deal of strength to carry this contraption from one place to another. That’s a bigger problem when it will be packed with some camping gear for a few days outdoors, not so much at home where it can stay in one place for long periods of time. Bluetti’s larger power generators do have wheels, but this earlier model is completely dependent on muscle power than physics to go from one place to another.

Each of the ports on the power generator has its own rubber cover. On the one hand, that’s a necessity for protecting the entry points of these ports. On the other hand, that also makes it cumbersome to use those ports, seeing as how you’ll need to uncover and cover them individually every time. You could leave the ports uncovered, of course, but you’ll still have to raise the flap to expose the ports.

Fortunately, all of the most used ports are in the front, so you won’t have cords sticking out on every side. The placement of these ports, as well as the wireless chargers on the top, are conveniently placed, ensuring easy plugging and unplugging, save for those rubber flaps. The input ports for the AC adapter and solar panels, however, are on the left side of the AC200P. It’s a double-edged sword that does keep input separate from output at the expense of expanding the power generator’s total footprint when in use.

A word has to be said about that AC input option that requires the use of the included power adapter. Despite its size and bulk, that power brick isn’t built into the generator. It might be due to some power efficiency or heat management, but it also means there’s a part that could be forgotten or even lost. It’s not a complete deal-breaker, but it does affect the power generator’s overall usability.

Performance

The Bluetti AC200P contains a 2,000Wh battery with a 2,000W output and a surge of 4,800W. In practical terms, this means that the power generator will be able to run a wide range of small home appliances, including blenders, coolers, radios, and more. It can even power car refrigerators or even low-wattage microwaves and hairdryers, but it really all depends on how power-hungry they are. The biggest consideration is that, while there are six AC outlets, they all share that same 2,000W of power.

Electronic devices like smartphones and laptops, however, will most likely use the DC connections instead. There are a variety of options here, but the majority are occupied by four 5V/3A USB-A ports. There is a single USB-C port and it’s capable of dishing out 60W of power. While that’s plenty for smartphones and tablets, needier laptops won’t be satisfied by this. Those devices will just have to compete with other appliances for one of those AC outlets. There are also two wireless charging pads on the flat surface of the AC200P’s top, each capable of putting out 15W.

When it comes to charging the power generator itself, there is also some flexibility available. The most direct and admittedly the fastest is through that AC adapter that, as mentioned, exists as a separate accessory you’ll have to bring with you all the time. This method tops you up to full in just four hours, which is ideal if you’re in a rush. When you’re outdoors and are confident about your car’s tank, you can even slowly charge it via the typical car charger.

The most environment-friendly is, of course, using solar panels, though that will take some time as well. If, however, you reach the peak 700W input with multiple solar panels, your total time will actually be faster at around three hours. You can also combine both solar and AC charging at the same time for a maximum of 1,100W input to shorten the charging time even further.

The AC200P’s LCD display is a convenient way to easily see important information, especially thanks to a high-contrast scheme and an always-on backlight. Unfortunately, the latter means that this screen also sips up some of the battery that could be used by connected devices instead. It’s also a touch screen, so all of the operations for driving the power generator can be found here. It definitely doesn’t get easier than this, though it would have probably been easier if you could control all those from a smartphone as well.

Sustainability

The biggest benefit of these portable power generators over traditional fuel generators is the use of a battery. Specifically, most of them use a lithium iron phosphate or LiFePO4 battery that also finds its way into electric vehicles. It’s a type of battery that’s known for its safety, reliability, and longevity, which are pretty much the most-desired properties for an emergency power backup.

With a battery inside, you won’t have to scavenge for gasoline to survive as long as you eventually get the generator charged one way or another. More than just convenience, this means that using the generator doesn’t further the planet’s demise, directly or indirectly. It also means that it’s safe to use indoors and also quiet, making it an excellent home power backup that you can leave running overnight if necessary.

The Bluetti AC200P’s real sustainability pull is the ability to be totally green if you really want to. The generator can be charged using solar panels only, which frees you from having to look for non-existent AC outlets when out in the wild. This also means you don’t have to rely on fossil fuel burned by power grids just to charge your battery. Whether you just want to live in a sustainable fashion or you want to journey off the grid, this semi-portable power generator has you covered. Sure, those solar panels will be quite an investment and take up a lot of space when completely laid out, but they will easily pay for themselves over time, especially when you’re trying to live a green life.

The one thing that keeps the AC200P from earning a perfect score is that its construction and build aren’t sustainable themselves. Aside from aluminum, there are plenty of plastic and rubber to go around, materials that don’t exactly translate to being eco-friendly. It’s understandable that Bluetti chose to focus first on durability and ruggedness at this point in the company’s history. The portable power generator market is quite young, so we’ll hopefully see some improvements towards sustainability as the industry grows.

Value

Given the rather rapid growth of the battery-powered generator market in the past two or so years, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of options already available in the market today. Even this Bluetti AC200P is actually one of the company’s older models from last year, and its age shows in the absence of some features like remote control via smartphones. At the same time, the myriad choices available and quick turnout of new generators means that it’s also harder to pick a solid and reliable option. Fortunately, the AC200P has stood the test of time.

At $1,599 (normally $1,699), the Bluetti AC200P offers the standard features of a somewhat portable power generator. The weight might be an issue for those who constantly move around, but the generator is perfect for a stationary emergency power source at home. The 60W USB-C might be a bit disappointing, but most laptops still use a proprietary power brick anyway. The separate AC adapter requires extra attention, but that might only be a problem when you’re bringing the generator outside.

Those nitpicks are very minor, and the AC200P still gets the job done with minimum fuss. It’s definitely a worthwhile investment if you’re a bit cash-constrained and don’t have time to save up for a newer but pricier model. Even after a year since it launched, it still has great value, especially with its current price cut. It has the perfect balance of features, though you might want to come up with a way to give it some wheels if you find yourself constantly moving it around.

Verdict

We have become terribly dependent on electronic devices and, in consequence, on electricity. That means that we’re also burning fuel at an alarmingly faster rate, and power from renewable sources isn’t able to catch up with the demand. Things take a turn for the worse when the power grid fails us or when we travel off the grid, leaving us scrambling for ways to keep the lights on or to keep phones and laptops powered up.

The Bluetti AC200P Portable Power Generator is one such solution that offers great value during those dark times. It has enough power to run essential appliances and charge critical devices without going overboard and burning a hole through your pocket in the process. More importantly, it offers the option to survive completely off the grid and in a sustainable manner, borrowing some power from the sun to power through disasters or camping trips. Safe, clean, green, and a little hefty, the AC200P lets you enjoy the conveniences of modern life even during an emergency without feeling guilty that you’re endangering lives, both the planet and yours.

The post Bluetti AC200P Power Station Review: Clean, Green, and Heavy first appeared on Yanko Design.

This MagSafe-compatible power bank concept is dressed to go camping with you

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Although wireless charging has been around for years now, it was only when Apple joined the fold that it really became more widely known and used. In typical Apple fashion, however, its implementation goes beyond the bare minimum to support wireless charging. Reusing a familiar name, Apple’s new MagSafe implementation brings the power of magnets to make life easier for many iPhone users. Of course, that new technology also gave rise to new products and accessories taking advantage of this magnetic feature to introduce creative new designs or ideas. One such concept isn’t exactly radical in that regard, but it does pay close attention to how it can blend in with the surroundings and a person’s chosen lifestyle.

Designer: Zhao Hu

After being cooped indoors for months, people have started enjoying and appreciating the great outdoors. Some have even taken to camping, or the trendier glamping, to reconnect with nature or just spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of city life. What people can’t get away from completely, however, is their smartphones, which means having a power source always within arm’s reach. Portable power generators have become en vogue because of that new outdoor lifestyle, but if you need something more portable and more stylish, this SHARGE concept is something you’d wish was an actual product already.

Power banks or portable batteries have been around for years now, but most of the ones we see in the market are designed to really look the part of power bricks, almost literally. Some are compact and good-looking, but few are designed to meet the diverse lifestyle choices and tastes of people. If you’re a camping fan, for example, you might want something that doesn’t exactly look like rugged tanks but at least has ties to your favorite hobby. It’s not by coincidence, then, that the SHARGE was designed to mimic the ridges you’d find on camping boxes. While the design is already visually appealing in itself, the structure also helps diffuse the force of impact, giving it a bit of ruggedness as well.

The opposite face of the power bank also has some ridges but are finer ones compared to the backside. The most important detail here is the large circle that today has become associated with Apple’s MagSafe charging tech for iPhones. It often indicates where the magnet is located on a charging accessory, though the magnets are also meant to align charging coils anyway. When attached to an iPhone, SHARGE gives the stylish phone a more rugged, outdoor personality, even if only for a brief period.

The power bank is supposed to have a battery capacity of 10,000 mAh, making it sufficient for a few rounds of charging to top up a phone for a day or two. Despite that spec, the aluminum block is thin enough to slip into pockets, and the edges are flat and plain, so it won’t snag into fabrics or other items. There is, however, a power button that extrudes a bit from the body, and it’s likely it will be accidentally pressed when the power bank jiggles in pockets and bags. Regardless, SHARGE has a simple yet distinctive appearance that shows how it was designed to appeal to a very specific audience rather than presenting something plain and ordinary.

The post This MagSafe-compatible power bank concept is dressed to go camping with you first appeared on Yanko Design.