Best Portable Solar Panels

Jackery SolarSaga 200W Portable Solar Panel

I immediately noticed the high-quality construction. The ETFE-laminated case provides durability and weather resistance, while the IP67 waterproof rating ensures the panel can withstand harsh conditions. Plus, the solar cells on the panel have a high conversion efficiency of up to 24.3%, which outperforms many competitors.

Setting up the solar panel was a breeze, taking just a few seconds. The three kickstands provide stability and allow for optimal sunlight absorption. 

When it was time to pack up, I found the magnetic pads and included a carrying bag to be convenient for transportation. 

Connecting it to my Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro power station was simple, and it charged the device in about 2.5 hours with 6 SolarSaga 200 panels.

But there are some cons with this product. The SolarSaga is relatively heavy at 23.6 pounds, which might be an issue for some users. 

Additionally, some customers have reported receiving damaged panels, which could indicate possible quality control problems. Lastly, the price of this solar panel is on the higher side, which may be a deciding factor for some potential buyers.

Overall, I believe the Jackery SolarSaga 200W Portable Solar Panel is a reliable and efficient choice for powering your off-grid adventures or providing emergency backup power at home. 

Reason for editor’s choice award: Well, its durability and performance outweigh the cons, making it well worth the investment for most users.

Renogy 200W Portable Solar Panel

I recently tried out the Renogy on a trip to Botswana and was genuinely impressed by its efficiency and ease of use. 

The plug-and-play solar kit came with a solar suitcase, a waterproof Voyager charge controller, and alligator clips. When I was setting up the equipment, it was incredibly simple and compatible with various 12V batteries.

The monocrystalline solar cells demonstrated remarkable efficiency during my test run, and the foldable design made it easy to carry, store, and set up. 

The advanced smart PWM technology in the charge controller ensured optimal charging efficiency and safety, putting my mind at ease during usage.

However, I did notice some minor drawbacks. The solar panel is heavy, so it might not be ideal for those who want to carry it over long distances. 

Another issue I experienced was a fleeting connectivity error with the charge controller – but this was quickly resolved. 

Lastly, the latches connecting the panels are of lower quality than other panel components. I’m not sure why they skimped here!

Despite a few minor cons, the Renogy 200W Portable Solar Panel is great for those requiring a versatile and efficient solar charging solution for camping, RV usage, or off-grid adventures. 

In a Nutshell: Easy to set up, efficient solar cells, and reliability make it worth considering.

BLUETTI Solar Panel PV200

The BLUETTI Solar Panel PV200 offers exceptional efficiency thanks to its monocrystalline solar cells. I was able to use it during unfavorable weather conditions. 

It performs superbly with BLUETTI portable power stations and other generators on the market. The BLUETTI ecosystem, in general, makes this a strong choice if you wish to expand in the future.

When it comes to durability, this solar panel is built to last. The ETFE coating proved to be scratch-resistant and able to endure water splashes. 

I’ve taken it with me on camping and trail running trips without any issues. Most portable solar panels can get wet. But I did notice it isn’t entirely rainproof, so be cautious during heavy downpours. 

One of the best features is its foldable design, which lets you easily pack it away when not in use. 

This is the lightest panel on this list (16.1 lbs); its compact size (24.8 × 23.2 inches) makes it convenient to transport and set up. The only drawback is the flimsy kickstand, which requires careful handling to avoid damage.

In a Nutshell: The BLUETTI Solar Panel PV200 is an excellent choice. Its high efficiency, durability, and foldable design make it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures and emergency backup power. Just be mindful of the cheap kickstand when setting it up.

Goal Zero Boulder 100 Briefcase

You might be noticing a theme here because the Goal Zero Boulder is also easy to transport with its briefcase-style design. 

Its anodized aluminum frame and tempered glass covering made it durable and weatherproof, allowing me to use it during various outdoor adventures. 

The built-in kickstand is good quality (a bonus) and simplifies positioning the panels. But I occasionally struggled to find the perfect solar angle with it.

Pairing this panel with a Goal Zero Yeti power station makes a fantastic off-grid energy solution during camping trips or even power outages at home. 

Boasting a professional-grade solar performance, it charged my devices efficiently. However, the 100-watt capacity may not be sufficient for large-scale energy needs – a factor to consider based on your requirements. You can solve that by getting the 200-watt version.

Although the Goal Zero Boulder 100 Briefcase is heavier than some competitors, its briefcase design makes the trade-off worth it for me. 

Keep in mind the specific features you desire when selecting a portable solar panel. The Goal Zero Boulder 100 Briefcase stands out for its portability, durability, and compatibility with Goal Zero products.

Who’s it for? It’s a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solar energy solutions and those needing backup power at home.

Buyer’s Guide to Portable Solar Panels

When choosing a portable solar panel, several essential features must be considered, including power output, size, efficiency, price, weight, durability, panel wattage, conversion efficiency, and panel efficiency.

Power Output

Power output refers to the amount of electricity a solar panel generates. It is measured in watts (W). The power output depends on the size and efficiency of the solar panel. 

For portable solar panels, the output can range from 10W to 200W or higher. The higher the power output, the more devices you can charge and the faster they charge.

Panel Wattage

Panel wattage is closely related to power output but denotes the panel’s maximum electrical capacity. 

Higher-wattage panels can charge devices faster and supply power to multiple devices simultaneously. Remember that your wattage should align with your power needs and intended usage.

Size

Size is an important factor when selecting a portable solar panel. The size determines the ease of transportation and storage. 

Portable solar panels are typically foldable or compact in design, making them easy to carry in a backpack or vehicle. Size should be based on your intended use and available space for transporting and storing the panel.

Efficiency

Efficiency refers to how effectively a solar panel converts sunlight into electricity. Portable solar panels usually have an efficiency rate of 15% to 23%. 

For example, the Bluetti 200-watt monocrystalline solar panel has an above-average conversion efficiency rate of 23.4%. 

Higher efficiency means that the panel can generate more electricity in less time, making it suitable for powering small home appliances and electronic devices.

Price

It’s essential to have a budget in mind when shopping for a panel, but also consider the value it provides in terms of performance and durability. Evaluate different solar panel options and choose the one that offers the best balance between price and quality.

For reference, here are the cheapest portable solar panels that I would consider if budget is my top criterion.

Durability

Durability is an essential feature of portable solar panels, as they are often exposed to harsh weather conditions and rough handling. 

Look for panels made from high-quality materials and featuring a sturdy construction. Some panels even come with protective cases or covers to enhance their durability.