From daily commuters and adventure seekers to worried parents, everyone loves solar power banks. These gadgets bring peace of mind in a time when people depend on rechargeable devices more than ever. It’s also a little leap forward in our efforts to be more sustainable.
Those who want or need to go off the grid no longer have to rely on electrical power alone to charge their phones, tablets, laptops, or any of the gadgets that get them in touch with civilization. They can now make use of the best solar power bank, which has become one of the most practical solutions for individuals who don’t have access to electricity.
A step up from solar chargers, these power banks don’t just charge gadgets; they also store charges when laid out in the sun. Its technology is such that it allows the device to absorb and store solar energy for future recharging purposes.
Comparison Chart
Best Solar Power Bank Reviews
1. BLAVOR Solar Power Bank
The first of our top favorites this year has a capacity of 10,000 mAh and comes with an external battery pack, compass, and a flashlight. This power bank is available in black, light blue, orange, and red color options.
With this, there’s nothing more an outdoor enthusiast could ask for in a power bank. Well, maybe except one that is also shockproof, splashproof, and dustproof—all of which the BLAVOR Solar Power Bank happens to be!
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Take note that this is a Qi portable charger, which means that it is compatible with almost all the latest phone models from iPhone and Samsung. Did we mention that it’s wireless, too? With this, you won’t have to bother with cords that can get damaged or tangled up when you’re out in the wilderness.
Power outlet or sunlight? Well, you can have both when it comes to this favorite of ours. It comes with both a type C and micro USB input port to further add to your convenience.
As far as charging times are concerned, using a 5V/2A adapter, your new best friend can be recharged in around six hours. Once it’s fully charged, it can load up either your iPhone7 plus’ or iPhone X’s batteries at almost two and a half times, or your iPhone 8’s at almost four times!
Despite all these amazing features, this model wouldn’t even be a blip on our radar if it didn’t impress structure-wise. It is compact, durable, and lightweight, making it perfect for bringing with you on outdoor camping trips and adventures.
What’s more, it poses little to no danger for you and nature because of its fireproof, splashproof, and shockproof quality. In terms of how easy it is to clean, well, we’ll tell you right now that not even a smudge of dust is capable of sticking itself into this unit.
The Good
There’s definitely a ton of good things to love about this one. For one, it’s wireless, so you don’t have to stress yourself out with cords. Going out into the wilderness or camping outdoors is supposed to focus on fun, and cords simply have no place there.
If you own any of the following phone units: Samsung S8, S8 Plus, S9, and S9 Plus, as well as iPhone 8, 8plus, X, XS, XR, and XR Max, then you’re especially going to love this model.
There’s been an extensive test with regards to charging times, and it’s been proven that this BLAVOR creation can supply any of your Qi-enabled device’s battery power at least two times, which makes it just the perfect power bank for short excursions to the outdoors.
The Bad
We really do hate to say anything bad about this one, but there’s definitely a few not-too-great features to mention. One is that while you do have the sunlight option for charging, it’s not recommended that you use it as the main feature for powering the unit.
The problem isn’t so much on the feature itself but the panel conversion rate and varying sunlight intensity, which can affect the amount of power the unit absorbs.
Pros:
- Wireless solar power charger
- Compact and durable
- Lightweight
- Cable- and tangle-free
Cons:
- Limited power source for lengthy outdoor trips
- Sunlight charging recommended only as an emergency back-up
2. ORYTO Solar Charger
If there’s one word to describe arguably the best solar power bank of 2019, it would be “power”. This one has no shortage of that element with its 26,800 mAh capacity, which makes it capable of effectively powering up multiple devices at a single time.
Top that off with an 18-LED flashlight, three outputs, and two inputs, as well as an external back-up battery, and you have every charging solution you could ever need once you go off the grid.
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If you’ve always been a fan of power banks and the wilderness, then you’re either about to or probably already have your hands on one of these. We don’t blame you one bit! This solar charger by ORYTO is just oozing with power and is capable of backing you up in emergency situations.
In the wilderness, Mother Nature sometimes has the tendency to get rid of all your other power sources and leave you with the sun as the sole power source. You can take full advantage of this model for your latest iPhone and Samsung phones that are Qi-enabled. This heavy-duty solar charger can load up to four devices at one time and is capable of charging your phone up to 10 times.
Plus, it ensures that you’re safe while doing all these things. There’s going to be no instances of overcharging, short-circuiting, over-voltage, and over-current as it automatically adjusts the power delivered to your devices to ensure that it’s the most suitable.
In terms of construction, ORYTO didn’t hold back on this one, as well. You can easily tell the moment you lay eyes on the unit that it’s sturdy and meant for the longest and most grueling outdoor adventures. It’s guaranteed to help you in almost any predicament with its secondary features that are just as awesome, including a shockproof, dustproof, and waterproof exterior.
The Good
World travelers and wilderness campers are absolutely going to love this power bank. As people who love going off the grid for lengthy periods, these guys need to be able to acquire a regular emergency power source back-up. This incredible creation by ORYTO can effectively charge a good number of gadgets in one go.
If you’re simply looking to charge a single phone for a certain period, then prepare for it to be loaded for up to an astonishing 10 times before you need to charge your power bank again.
This is another wireless beast that’s going to make for a great company in your outdoor excursions. Make sure that it is fully charged and in your camping bag at all times.
The Bad
As mighty as this charger is, it also has a downside. It might not be the best for light outdoor excursions, as you wouldn’t be able to take full advantage of its features. You’d also probably want something more lightweight for short nature trips.
Pros:
- High durability
- Charges up to four devices at once
- High-speed charging
- Wireless
Con:
- Might not be the best for short nature trips
3. Slols Solar Charger
It seems that cable- and tangle-free models are a staple on our list. This one definitely doesn’t disappoint in this regard and even brings a lot of extras to the table, as well.
Take, for instance, its high-speed charging feature, external backup battery, and a flashlight that adds safety and convenience to your outdoor trips.
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You’ll surely be impressed with this model’s capacity for power. At 20,000 mAh, this wireless power bank is literally the best for charging your iOS and Android phones.
This power bank capable of loading up your iPhone X’s battery up to five times and your Samsung Galaxy S8’s for up to three and a half times. Basically, you’ll find this favorite of ours a great fit for all Qi-enabled gadgets.
The 20,000 mAh Solar Charger has one type C and two USB outputs, which are all pre-configured into the device. This makes it capable of high-speed charging for up to four devices. It’s type C and micro USB input ports add another advantage in terms of charging. All it takes for this device to be fully charged is six to eight hours.
Durability and portability are two of the features that landed this model on our list. It’s perfect for bringing with you on your outdoor trips because it weighs next to nothing and doesn’t easily damage. If you’re worried about losing light in the middle of the wilderness, don’t be. This power bank has an ultra-powerful flashlight that comes in three modes.
The Good
If you’re loyal to iOS, then this has got to be the power bank for you. Many aren’t exactly fans of bringing their phones to the wilderness because of several issues, one of which is battery life. Well, any charging issues you may have with regards to your iPhone can be forgotten, thanks to this awesome power back-up that’s suitable for any nature trip you can think of.
Oh, and did we mention that it’s both waterproof and dustproof? As if things aren't already good enough, this unit takes us to a whole other level by being equipped with a carabiner and slings.
In the end, one thing’s for sure; you won’t need anything more for your outdoor adventure with this model in your bag.
The Bad
One thing you may not like about this solar charger is the need to have it charged using the cable in normal situations. Same as the other models, this one’s solar charging doesn’t really offer the fastest charging solution and is only recommended during emergency situations.
Pros:
- Durable and sturdy
- Multiple light modes
- Solar charging and cable options
- Qi wireless feature
Con:
- Slow solar charging
4. BLAVOR Solar Charger Power Bank
This is another one of BLAVOR’s best this year, and for good reason. This portable wireless charger comes with two inputs and four outputs, making it great for powering up multiple devices at one time. Its secondary features, such as a built-in compass and flashlight, further cement how ideal this model is for the outdoors.
This waterproof power bank comes in either orange or black and has a power-packed 20,000 mAh capacity battery. There really isn’t more you could ask for.
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This product’s high-speed charging feature can be attributed to the combination of power charging technology and QC 3.0 integrated into this device. More incredible than this technology that also gives this power bank its 18W power, is the fact that it specifically delivers the most appropriate charging situations for your phones to ensure optimal charging.
You’re going to find the 10W wireless charger option most ideal for short nature trips. This time, you won’t have to worry about cords getting damaged or limiting your movements. Your Qi-enabled gadgets, like most of the latest Android and iOS phones, can all be charged efficiently and conveniently.
This solar charger definitely packs a punch in the power department, boasting a 20,000 mAh capacity. You can charge multiple units an average of four times using this power bank. If you have a MacBook Pro with you, you can charge it to full battery for up to one time.
The compass and flashlight are also an excellent addition, not just because they’re convenient features to have when you’re out in the wilderness but also because they make use of state-of-the-art technology. These aren’t ordinary secondary features that get busted during heavy rainstorms and tough climate conditions; they’re as tough and durable as the unit itself.
The Good
This fast-charging solar charger is ideal for both lengthy and short outdoor excursions. It’s practically the whole package, as it offers considerable power and leading-edge technology for those who love to consistently go off the grid, as well as the occasional nature trippers.
Campers who mainly need the 10W option for their Qi-enabled gadgets can take advantage of wireless charging, which has basically become revolutionary for travelers all over the world.
The Bad
We honestly don’t have too many bad things to say about this one. Everything about it is exceptional, from its power capacity to the high-speed charging technology that it uses.
If we do have to pick a downside, however, it would probably have something to do with the model’s bulkier look and feel. Granted, this isn’t really a major issue, but it can be for some who like to pack as light as possible.
Pros:
- 10W wireless charging
- High-speed charging technology
- Durable
- Comes with a compass and flashlight
Con:
- Slightly on the bulky side
5. BEARTWO Portable Solar Charger
This is probably the most compact on our list. It’s nothing less than perfect for camping and outdoor activities because of its 10,000 mAh power capacity, dual USB ports, flashlight, and external batteries. You’re especially gonna love this if you’re a camping newbie.
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There’s a lot to admire about this product—from its ultra-compact design and pre-configured mini-flashlight to its dual USB ports and environment-friendly material. That’s just the start, too; it also comes with a waterproof exterior and is one of the lightest solar power banks on the market.
One of the best things about this model is that you won’t have any trouble bringing it with you during your light outdoor excursions. If you plan to go hiking or trekking, you can easily attach and secure this unit to your backpack using the hanger that comes with the package.
You can cross lakes or rivers without worrying about the water damaging your power bank. What’s more, you can navigate the wilderness effectively during night time with the help of the built-in LED flashlight that comes in three modes.
The most noteworthy feature of all would probably be the eco-friendly rubber that’s made of silicone, as well as the PC plus ABS material that this device is made of. These materials are all reliable, certified, and highly durable.
The Good
There’s no shortage of great things to say about this product. It’s an awesome addition to either a beginner’s camping bag or a professional adventurer’s duffle. The whole time you’re carrying it with you, you wouldn’t even know that it’s there because it’s incredibly lightweight.
This power bank may be tiny, but it packs considerable power that you can rely on whenever you need to charge your Android or iOS phones. Also, we did mention that it’s wireless, right?
The Bad
This isn’t a heavy-duty solar charger and probably won’t be as effective during long stretches of outdoor adventures. If you’re planning to go off the grid for a couple of months, then this might not be the best choice.
Pros:
- Super lightweight
- Wireless
- Made of eco-friendly materials
- Waterproof
Cons:
- Slower solar charging
- Not meant for long nature trips
Buyer’s Guide
We can’t tell you for sure if purchasing a solar power bank without sufficient information is going to lead to good results. Yes, you could end up with a good model, but at what price? The best thing to do when shopping for items you’re not too familiar with is to seek a guide.
This section goes over the most important features people should look for in their solar chargers.
1. Portability
Your ability to carry any item you bring with you on an outdoor excursion or camping trip is likely at the top of your list. A solar power bank is no exception to that.
You’ll want a solar charger that you can effortlessly carry around with you. This is especially true for newbie campers since navigating the outdoors can already pose some level of difficulty in itself.
2. Charging Capacity
Before you purchase a solar power bank, you’ve got to consider how capable it is at powering the gadgets you’ll be bringing with you on your trip.
There are awesome models with just enough charging capacity for one or two devices. If you want an effective charger for, let’s say, four devices at a time, you should pick a unit with around 20W or more power delivery capacity.
3. Inbuilt or External Battery
How much power can the battery hold? That would depend on the mAh, which, depending on your power bank, could be anywhere from 10,000 to 26,800, but that’s just based on our list.
If you’re going on a long trip with several gadgets that need regular charging, then a heavier duty charger that can hold up to 26,800 mAh and comes with an external battery would be the best choice. Otherwise, for light nature trips, you can simply go for a model that has an inbuilt battery with 10,000 mAh power capacity.
4. Number of Ports
Most campers don’t really bring a lot of technology with them on their trips to the wilderness. If you do, and you need to make sure they are all charged effectively, then choose a model that has several ports, preferably with both type C and micro USB options. That way, you can conveniently charge multiple devices effectively and efficiently.
5. Weight
Ideally, you’ll want to pick solar power banks that are highly durable yet lightweight. The weight of the power bank usually tells us what excursions its best for.
For instance, the lightest ones are typically meant for short nature trips, while the bulkier and heavier-duty units are ideal for lengthy expeditions into the wilderness.
FAQs
1. What are solar power banks?
The biggest difference between a solar power bank and an ordinary one lies in their charging options. Granted, solar power banks are usually slower and are recommended only for emergency situations.
Aside from having the traditional charging option where you just plug the cord into the outlet to load up the device’s battery, a solar power bank has a solar charging feature, wherein it simply needs to be laid out in the sunlight to absorb solar power.
2. How do you charge a solar power bank?
You can either charge a solar power bank traditionally or via solar energy. To charge the traditional way, plug it into an outlet with an electrical power source. Alternatively, you can simply lay it out in the sun to absorb solar energy.
3. How long does it take for a solar power bank to charge?
A good power bank will usually take about six to eight hours to be fully charged.
4. Is a solar battery worth it?
It is very much worth it, particularly for those who go off the grid every once in a while as a choice or out of necessity. Plus, it furthers our efforts to live more sustainably.
5. How long can a power bank hold a charge?
If you have a good power bank, then expect it to hold a charge for up to three to six months without too much loss.
Final Verdict
It is not surprising that every single power bank on our list deserves to be called the best solar power bank of 2019. They all score relatively high in terms of portability, weight, number of ports, and charging capacity.
If a choice needs to be made, however, based on our in-depth analysis of these products, the title for this year’s best choice has to go to the ORYTO Solar Charger. You see it edging all the others in most departments, except weight, which happens to be the area of its slight downfall. Other than that, it really is the ideal partner to have for any outdoor excursion.
