The 5 Best Solar Power Banks
Whether you’re stuck in a blackout and need to charge your phone or lost in the woods in need of some extra juice for your devices, the usefulness of a solar power bank cannot be overstated. In today’s technology-dependent world, getting stuck in a situation without power can be exceptionally jarring, and most people would rather avoid them at all costs.
Relying on an external battery pack is fine, but what happens if it loses charge before you get access to more power? Or if you have a rechargeable bank, what happens if you forget to charge it before you got out? In these cases, a battery that merely needs the light of the sun to restore power can make or break a tough situation.
What Is a Solar Power Bank?
Just as the name suggests, a solar power bank is a battery power storage unit that gets its energy from sunlight. These kinds of banks are especially useful during camping trips when there are no electricity sockets to be found, but keeping charged equipment for emergencies is necessary. When deciding to purchase a solar power bank, make sure that you’ll have plenty of sunlight to charge it, and that when you’re not outside you’ve got a way to charge it from an outlet. While many of the banks on this list can be fully recharged with sunlight, it’s often advertised as more of an emergency option and not the intended primary source of power.
For many, the most time efficient way to get full charge is to let the bank power up while connected to a wall outlet in the home. Still, solar power banks are an invaluable investment for anyone who spends lots of time away from electricity while still needing plenty of electronic devices.
Top 5 Solar Power Banks
Cobra CPP 300
For compact convenience outdoors when it comes to keeping a charge on your devices, the Cobra CPP 300 is a great candidate for those looking for their perfect solar power source. With a 6,000mAh Lithium Polymer Battery Pack, this foldable device can charge multiple devices without issue. It comes with two USB ports, one micro USB connector to lighten the load of wires you’d have to carry around to make good use of the battery.
When it comes to charging, the Cobra CPP 300 can be charged from the wall as well as the dual solar panels it sports when folded out. The 5.52in x 2.92in x 0.64in dimensions when folded mean this battery pack is perfect for anyone who is lacking in space but packing on the electronics.
GRDE Solar Charger, Portable Power Bank 10000mAh Dual USB
This GRDE Portable Power Bank 10000mAh Dual USB Battery Charger works on smartphones, cameras, GPS, tablets, and other electronic devices. It has two USB ports and a shock-proof feature to ensure it will work even if it’s dropped. The portable rain-splash design features an emergency LED flashlight and LED indicators to show the charging process.
This is available in various colors and includes a micro USB charging cable. It is backed by a 12-month satisfaction guarantee.
Dizaul 5000mAh Portable Solar Power Bank
Amazon’s #1 best-seller in cellphone solar chargers, the Dizaul 5000mAh Portable Solar Power Bank works on smartphones, cameras, tablets, GPS, and other electronic devices. The portable, water-resistant, dust-proof design features dual USB ports, an emergency flashlight, smart LED indicator lights, and a shock-proof feature to ensure it will work even if it’s dropped. It is made of eco-friendly silicone rubber and the USB ports are further protected by rubber caps. The football grain design also has an anti-skid protecting effect.
This is available in various colors and includes a micro USB charging cable and hook. It is backed by hundreds of five-star reviews on Amazon.
Ayyie Solar Power Bank 10000mAh External Backup Battery
This Ayyie Solar Charger, Solar Power Bank 10000mAh External Backup Battery Pack works well on tablets, smartphones, cameras, GPS, and other electronic devices. It features a compass, pilot lamps, LED charging indicators, two USB ports, and dual LED lights with steady, SOS, or strobe light options. The portable, lightweight device has a single crystal silicone solar panel and offers high speed charging thanks to automatic smart identification. It is also water-resistant, dust-proof, and shock-proof.
This is available in various colors and includes a USB charging cable and hook. It is an Amazon best-seller and is backed by a product warranty.
GRDE Solar Power Bank 15000mAh Dual USB External Battery Charger
This GRDE Solar Power Bank 15000mAh Dual USB External Battery Charger works on smartphones, cameras, tablets, GPS, and other electronic devices. The high capacity charger features a built-in LED flashlight and LED indicator lights. The water-resistant, dust-proof solar power bank has two USB ports and offers high speed charging thanks to automatic identification.
This is available in various colors and includes a USB charging cable and metal clip. It is also backed by a 12-month warranty.
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After a solar charger for my samsung tablet and phone is the wakawaka charger any good Kerry
This is a very useful guide.
Thank you. This is very helpful. Looking at a 10 camping trip and need to have power, this was very nice.
Why is it not advised to use solar power to recharge most of these powerbanks? Does it reduce the life of the device, or is wall charging recommended due to it being faster?
Yes, wall charging is always faster. In the descriptions and specifications they state that solar charging is mostly for emergencies because it is slower.