Are your apps, hours of internet connection, and endless calls draining your battery? If you want to continue your favorite outdoor activity while enjoying your electronics, a solar powered external battery can be a big help. Both practical and environmentally friendly, find the perfect model with our comparison.
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Our selection
"Lightweight and portable, the Blavor PN-W05 is a well-designed external solar battery. With a built-in compass and light, it's great for hiking and outdoor activities."
"Forget about battery failure on your smartphones and tablets with the QTshine HX160S4. This 26,800mAh solar powered external battery can charge all common smartphones 5-6…"
"No matter what outdoor activities you engage in, the Soluser I26S-Blue will live up to your expectations. This portable power bank offers smart and fast…"
"With a capacity of 30,000 mAh, the Xiyihoo YD-818P backup battery can charge your smartphone up to eight times. It has 2 USB outputs and…"
"Equip yourself with the Djroll HDL-529 to ensure you always have a battery backup for your smartphones and touch tablets. Note that it embeds the…"
Lightweight and portable, the Blavor PN-W05 is a well-designed external solar battery. With a built-in compass and light, it's great for hiking and outdoor activities.
27,99 £ on AmazonThe Blavor PN-W05 stands out thanks to its light weight and compact size. It takes up very little space and is therefore easy to transport. The device can withstand any splashes and raindrops, as it is made of waterproof material. The external solar battery is also accompanied by some accessories to ensure a better comfort of use.
However, we could regret its lack of power due to the small surface of the solar panels. However, this small inconvenience will be compensated by the possibility of connecting the Blavor PN-W05 external solar battery to a power outlet. The QI-certified technology ensures optimal charging comfort.
Forget about battery failure on your smartphones and tablets with the QTshine HX160S4. This 26,800mAh solar powered external battery can charge all common smartphones 5-6 times.
22,36 £ on AmazonThe QTshine HX160S4 external battery has an exceptional capacity of 26,800 mAh. This is enough power to charge a smartphone with a 4000 mAh battery five to six times. The number of possible charges is three times on a tablet like the iPad Mini. With this accessory, you will never run out of battery again.
The QTshine HX160S4 also offers solar charging. When the power bank is flat, use the solar panel to continue charging your smartphone. This option is convenient when you go hiking or when you find yourself in a place without a power source. The QTshine HX160S4 connects to your smartphone via its two USB-C ports. Thanks to the IC technology, you don't have to worry about overloads, surges, short circuits and overcurrents.
No matter what outdoor activities you engage in, the Soluser I26S-Blue will live up to your expectations. This portable power bank offers smart and fast charging.
See priceThe Soluser I26S-Blue is an external solar battery with a power of 26,800 mAh. The device offers 2 USB 5V outputs, including 1 Type-C port, which allows you to charge 3 devices at the same time. To increase its robustness, the brand has not skimped on the quality of materials used.
The Soluser I26S-Blue is made of PC + ABS materials. Equipped with a robust and non-slip coating, this model of external battery is both resistant to shocks and falls. Its greatest asset is its great compatibility with Android and Apple devices rechargeable via USB. In addition, it is equipped with 18 LED flashlights, an ideal feature to light up your roads during your night outings.
With a capacity of 30,000 mAh, the Xiyihoo YD-818P backup battery can charge your smartphone up to eight times. It has 2 USB outputs and a USB-C input.
24,79 £ on AmazonThe Xiyihoo YD-818P external solar battery weighs only 455g and is barely larger than an ordinary smartphone. Yet it boasts a 30,000 mAh capacity that provides up to eight charges for an iPhone 8. This high capacity also allows for fast charging at 5A on the first USB port. The second USB port offers 2.1A charging. Of course, you can connect two devices at the same time to this backup battery even in solar charging mode.
A safety system protects your smartphones and tablets from overcharging. The Xiyihoo YD-818P is also suitable for harsh conditions thanks to its dust and shockproof shell. The external solar battery, incorporating a 1W monocrystalline solar panel, will follow you wherever you go.
Equip yourself with the Djroll HDL-529 to ensure you always have a battery backup for your smartphones and touch tablets. Note that it embeds the QI wireless charging technology.
33,59 £ on AmazonThe Djroll HDL-529 is your best companion when you travel or go camping or hiking. Its 36,000 mAh battery capacity will charge your smartphones and touch tablets many times over. The solar charging option will also come to your rescue if your stay is prolonged and the external battery runs out.
This solar powered external battery offers two USB ports, one of which is Type C fast charge compatible. A QI wireless charging option is available for compatible smartphones. Its IP66-certified heavy-duty shell effectively resists splashes and dust. The device has an LED light to illuminate you. With all these options, the Djroll HDL-529 will be a great help when you go on an adventure in the wilderness or far from a power source.
The Aikove A1801 charges up to four smartphones simultaneously with a fast wireless charging option. This external solar battery can even charge a laptop.
34,39 £ on AmazonWith its 30,000 mAh capacity, the Aikove A1801 external solar battery is capable of charging 4 smartphones simultaneously. This includes fast charging via a USB Type-C cable and 10W QI wireless charging. This external battery is so powerful that you can use it to power your laptop. To give you an example, the device charges a 15-inch MacBook Pro to 100% in 2 hours and 30 minutes. A built-in protection system will prevent you from overcharging, short circuits and excessive discharges.
It takes about 10 hours to charge this external battery. When it's at 100%, it can charge your smartphones multiple times, which is very convenient if you're on the go. The Aikove A1801 will make sure that all your USB rechargeable electronic devices remain operational. It is important to note that it is designed with ABS + PC giving it an increased durability. There is also a silicone plug. The whole will protect your solar charger from external aggressions like rain, dirt and shocks.
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The best solar external battery in 2021
The best entry-level solar external battery
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| TOP OF THE TOP | NOT EXPENSIVE | TOP OF THE RANGE | EXCELLENT | Very good | Alternative | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
9/10 |
7/10 |
7/10 |
8/10 |
9/10 |
9/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Blavor PN-W05
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QTshine HX160S4
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Soluser I26S-Blue
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Xiyihoo YD-818P
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DJROLL HDL-529
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Aikove A1801
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Lightweight and portable, the Blavor PN-W05 is a well-designed external solar battery. With a built-in compass and light, it's great for hiking and outdoor activities.
|
Forget about battery failure on your smartphones and tablets with the QTshine HX160S4. This 26,800mAh solar powered external battery can charge all common smartphones 5-6 times.
|
No matter what outdoor activities you engage in, the Soluser I26S-Blue will live up to your expectations. This portable power bank offers smart and fast charging.
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With a capacity of 30,000 mAh, the Xiyihoo YD-818P backup battery can charge your smartphone up to eight times. It has 2 USB outputs and a USB-C input.
|
Equip yourself with the Djroll HDL-529 to ensure you always have a battery backup for your smartphones and touch tablets. Note that it embeds the QI wireless charging technology.
|
The Aikove A1801 charges up to four smartphones simultaneously with a fast wireless charging option. This external solar battery can even charge a laptop.
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Power/capacity
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10,000 mAh
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26800 mAh
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26,800 mAh
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30000 mAh
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36000 mAh
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30000 mAh
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Number of ports
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3 ports: Type-C input, USB output and micro USB input
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2 USB outputs (2.1 A and 1.0 A outputs)
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2 USB ports and 1 Type-C output
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Dual USB port and dual 5/2.1 A
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Dual USB output and Type-C output with 5 V / 3 A
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3 inputs and 4 outputs
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Protection index
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IPX4
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-
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IPX6
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fast charger-
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IP66
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IPX7
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Wireless charging
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Yes
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No
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No
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No
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Yes
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Yes
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Flashlight function
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Yes
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Yes
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No
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Yes
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Solar charger or solar external battery is a device that stores the energy of the sun and transforms it into electricity. Therefore, it can share and distribute this energy. It is therefore important to know which devices can benefit from it. This depends on the charging power of the solar panel. A 2.5W external solar battery might be enough to charge cell phones and tablets. Speakers and cameras need more power. For larger mobile accessories such as laptops and game consoles, more than 25 W is needed.
The current and voltage that a battery can deliver depends on its manufacture. Lithium batteries are currently offered for their high charge capacity. The 5 V batteries are the most widespread. A battery is said to have a high capacity when its electrical charge delivers more than 10,000 MAD. Each battery offers a number of charge cycles. The higher the number, the longer the life span. As for discharging, this happens even if the charger is not used. A good battery is also characterized by the lowest possible self-discharge.
The charging time depends on the intensity of the electrical charge of the battery, the voltage of the current it can provide and the power of the solar panel. To get the charging rate in minutes, divide the current in milliampere-hours by the voltage in volts, then divide the result by the panel's power in watts. Rest assured, manufacturers list an approximate time for each external solar battery on sale.
The
electricity stored in the external battery comes from solar energy. That's the purpose of the design of these devices. Then, manufacturers have developed the hybrid type of charger
. Hybrid solar chargers can be charged with solar energy, an electrical outlet or with a USB cable. Some can charge with a mechanical crank.
To avoid carrying multiple types of cables, it is best if the solar charger has multiple types of connectors. The number of USB ports is important to be able to charge several devices at the same time.
Unlike a traditional battery, an external solar battery has its own operating mode. Indeed, it has been specifically designed to better optimize the autonomy of your devices such as smartphone, tablet or radio. This type of charging tool allows you to recharge them without hindrance when you travel, in areas without electricity or during a power outage.
It is generally not necessary to have a power outlet nearby to operate it. The external solar battery consists of a solar panel with a photovoltaic plate, an integrated battery and an electrical circuit. By exposing the panel to the sun's rays, the device will be able to store enough energy inside its integrated battery according to its capacity.
It is this accumulated energy that will define the power, intensity and voltage of the charge supplied and transmitted to your electronic devices. The electrical circuit, represented by the USB connector, will be responsible for transferring the stored energy to your various peripherals.
Monocrystalline batteries are easily recognized by their dark color. They have a higher conversion efficiency. They are therefore recommended if you go out in cloudy weather or when there is very little sunlight. Its efficiency is 1 to 3% higher than the external polycrystalline solar battery. It is also more expensive to buy.
Polycrystalline external batteries are the ones that have a blue color. Their efficiency is not as high as that of monocrystalline batteries. Because of this, it is best to use them during good weather. They work to their full potential on sunny days. Charging time is reduced with this battery. Since it consumes less energy, it has a longer life. It's an economical alternative for staying connected while traveling and walking away from power outlets.
The external solar battery consists of 2 essential elements: the solar panel and the integrated battery. Ecological and economical, it captures and stores energy from the sun's rays. These natural resources allow it to recharge a smartphone, a tablet or even a laptop anywhere. You will no longer need to be near an electrical outlet, ideal for hiking, camping or traveling without any constraints.
On the other hand, if the weather is cloudy, you can always recharge your external solar battery on a mains socket. As a general rule, the external solar battery is completely water and shock resistant thanks to its silicone coating. It is also very light and easy to carry due to its compact size.
The solar panel, as the name suggests, is completely free of built-in batteries. Visually, you will see several solar panels that can be folded on themselves. Its mode of operation is even simpler than that of an external solar battery. Indeed, it works only when there is only sun.
The biggest advantage of this type of solar charger is that it will offer you optimal power. The charging time will be considerably reduced. If it is larger, the travel solar panel will have the capacity to charge a laptop or a car battery.
The external solar battery can be used both indoors and outdoors. Indeed, it is possible to recharge its battery on an electric plug in case the sun rays fail you. It is the ideal solar charger for those who go hiking, camping or during a simple outdoor activity.
However, if you want more power and to be able to recharge your smartphone or laptop quickly, we recommend the use of a solar travel panel although it can also be complementary with an external solar battery.
For charging various mobile accessories
A charger is used to charge mobile devices and accessories when the battery level is insufficient. If your battery is flat, the solar charger will serve as a backup battery. With an external charger or battery, this power bank function can be very useful. A portable power bank could be a great help in emergency situations.
To enjoy the sun for free
The strong point of a solar charger or external battery is precisely that it can draw on the sun and store its energy. This type of charger allows you to take advantage of free solar energy to convert it into electrical current. Wherever you are, in any place without electricity, the solar charger will provide you with electricity.
For its versatility
The external solar battery can be charged by the sun. The hybrid types of chargers can also be charged with an electrical outlet, a USB cable or a hand crank. Many devices can benefit from its use: From smartphones to laptops to small rechargeable batteries.
For additional options
Some models are coated with silicone. This protects them from moisture and shocks. Other features can be offered. The presence of LEDs ensures the function of a flashlight. And a lighter can always be used.
It is practical and transportable
The shape and size of this accessory matter a lot to solar charger enthusiasts. Pocket chargers have the advantage of being able to follow the user everywhere. And the slimmest ones can be discreetly fixed on an outside piece of furniture.
In our opinion, the best brands of external solar batteries in 2022 are :
The company's main goal is to offer its customers a wide range of products that are both resistant and efficient. Its external solar batteries are distinguished by their high capacity and power.
The brand specializes in the field of technological development specific to energy production. In particular, it offers portable devices that are ideally suited for remote charging.
As the name suggests, the brand allows you to take advantage of cutting-edge technology based on charging systems in all their forms. In addition to solar powered external batteries, it also offers high-quality USB chargers and car chargers.
A recognized brand, BigBlue uses the latest technology to ensure customer satisfaction. And for good reason, some of the brand's solar powered external batteries are capable of charging laptops in no time at all while enjoying overcharge and overheating protection.
Making a better place among the leaders of the market of external solar batteries, Powerrad was born around the year 2010. The company offers high-tech products at competitive prices.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Avoid charging your battery behind windows.
Avoid charging your battery behind a window if at all possible, especially if the window is energy efficient, as it will block the sunlight. However, if you have no choice but to charge the battery behind a window, make sure the panel is well exposed to the sun and take it easy.
Keep your phone cool.
It's
not about letting the phone overheat in the sun. The first thing to know is that you should not try to charge a phone that does not take solar charging in the sun. If you have any doubts about your phone, you should know that a phone that takes solar charging will not heat up if it is exposed to the sun. It will be barely warm. Because when the phone gets hot in the sun, it slows down the charging speed. Even if the phone is warm to the touch, the charging will slow down. So make sure your phone takes solar charge before you expose it to the sun.
Charging in low light conditions may not work.
If
you don't think there's enough sunlight to charge your phone (on a slightly overcast day, for example), wait until it returns. Because while the external battery can handle being charged in low light, the phone may be damaged.
Mobile solar charge.
Keep in
mind that shade can compromise solar charging. If you charge your phone while walking, each trip into the shade may be interpreted by your device as turning off, and when you return to the sun, it will be interpreted as turning on. Constant powering on and off can wear out your phone, as the screen is constantly turning on and off. We recommend charging the charger first (if it is also a power supply) and then plugging it into your phone.
Charge your devices one by one.
Even
if your solar charger has 2 USB ports, you can't expect to effectively charge more than one device
at a time.
Having two devices plugged in usually just stifles the power to either device.
The best external solar battery depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide for the best products available.
Yes, these can easily fit in a pocket of your pants or jacket. Since the size is dependent on the capacity, go for a model with a maximum of 6000 mAh.
You have to take into consideration the actual capacity of the external solar battery to know the exact number of charges. With a 5000 mAh model, you can charge a 2500 mAh smartphone twice.
This depends on the model you choose. Ranging from the more classic to the more well-known, you can have a USB-A or USB-C output. The number of ports varies depending on the size of the portable battery.
To minimize charging time, invest in an external solar battery with the same technology as your electronic devices (Qualcomm Quick Charge technology, AirPower, iSmart ...).
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