Top 5 Battery Powered Outlets AKA Portable Power Stations - Ultimate Buyer's Guide

By SSK Admin November 08, 2021

What is a Battery Powered Outlet?
How do Battery Powered Outlets work?
How to Choose the Best Battery Powered Outlet
Top 5 Battery Powered Outlets AKA Portable Power Stations

If you’re looking to power your electronics on the go, you may be wondering, “Is there such a thing as a battery-powered outlet?” Imagine this: Your home’s power outlet, anywhere you go, powered by a portable battery.

Well, it is not only possible to purchase a battery-powered outlet, but the possibilities have never been greater for long-term, portable power. In this article, we will explain exactly what a battery-powered outlet is before recommending our top 5 battery powered outlets on today’s market.

What is a Battery Powered Outlet?

A battery-powered is simply a device that can store electricity and output it through an electrical outlet. Most commonly, a battery-powered “outlet” is describing an AC power outlet, like those found on the walls of a home.

Other names for Battery Powered Outlets

Battery-powered outlets are a constantly evolving technology and therefore have many names. Other common names for battery-powered outlets include:

CPAP Batteries
Portable power stations
Portable chargers
Electric generators
And more.

Today, there are many great battery powered outlets that can be easily recharged with solar energy. Devices with ports and charge controllers designed for solar panels are often called solar generators or solar-powered generators.

Uses for Battery Powered Outlets

Battery-powered outlets have a diverse set of uses, as they are an incredibly convenient way to supply remote electricity. Fully-electric battery systems generally operate at near-silent decibel levels and can even be used indoors, as they do not emit any harmful fumes.

With all of this in mind, battery-powered outlets are commonly used for:

Running CPAP machines
Camping, tailgating, and festivals
RVs, vans, and life on the road
Ongoing off-grid storage
Job sites
Emergencies
And more

How do Battery Powered Outlets work?

Today, lithium-ion batteries store electricity in direct current (DC), while power outlets output alternating current (AC). To solve this problem, battery-powered outlets typically include a power inverter which “inverts” the energy from DC to AC.

Battery-powered outlets can be charged in a variety of ways, which typically include one or more of the following methods:

AC electricity (wall plug) charging
DC charging (through a car’s cigarette lighter)
Solar panels or wind turbines
USB charging (typically for smaller units)

In a pinch, some battery-powered outlets can also be recharged by hooking up directly to a gas generator or other portable power source.

How to Choose the Best Battery Powered Outlet

Despite only comprising two main parts (the battery and the outlet), portable power stations can be complicated to compare one another if you do not have a lot of prior electrical knowledge.

To make it easy for you, here are a few of the most important specifications to pay attention to when choosing the best battery powered outlet.

Battery Storage

Battery storage is the defining factor of most battery powered outlets. In general, the higher the storage capacity, the more expensive the device will be.

Storage capacity is measured in watt-hours or amp-hours. To estimate what size battery storage is right for you simply multiply your device’s wattage by their approximate run time.

For example, let’s say you have a 50W CPAP machine and want to camp for two nights. Estimating for 16 hours of total run time (8 hours per night), you will need a battery with at least 900 watt-hours of capacity.

Battery Longevity (# of Lifecycles)

Second, a battery’s longevity is measured by its expected number of lifecycles. As all batteries slowly degrade over time, the lifecycle count is usually estimated for when a battery reaches 80% of its initial storage capacity.

Battery longevity is often overlooked when considering the long-term use of a portable power station. For daily use, we highly recommend finding a battery with 1,000 life cycles or more.

Charging Options (Power Input)

Before you can use your portable power outlet, you need to charge the battery. Charging options, as well as charging speeds, should closely be examined when considering the best product for your electrical demand.

If you plan to spend a lot of time on the road with your battery-powered outlet, it is great to find a station with an easy car-charging cable system. For extended periods off of the grid, we highly recommend using a solar-powered generator for continuous battery life.

Outlet Variety (Power Output)

If you’re looking for a simple AC power outlet or two, many small, low-cost devices can provide just that. However, many of the best power stations of today can also silently power DC and USB devices such as lights, cellphones, cameras, and more.

When using your AC power, pay close attention to the device’s continuous power rating (from the inverter). High-demand appliances like microwaves may exceed the wattage rating for smaller battery powered outlets.

Size & Weight

High-capacity portable power stations generally range between 20 and 75 lbs, depending on the size of the battery and inverter. With such a variety of products available, it is incredibly easy to prioritize certain features such as power capacity, battery storage, or ease of transportation.

Operating Noise Levels

Last but not least, consider a power station’s operating noise levels before making your purchasing decision. Although batteries are near-silent compared to gas generators, large fans or outdated technology may cause a power station to generate noise that can annoy those expecting to sleep next to it.

Top 5 Battery Powered Outlets AKA Portable Power Stations

Alright, let's begin! Here are our top 5 battery powered outlets for tons of portable electricity.

1. The EcoFlow Delta Solar Generator [Quad Kit]

For the past year, the EcoFlow Delta has been one of the best selling battery powered outlets in the world, and for good reason. This device combines power, portability, and convenience into one unbeatable generator for reliable electricity.

EcoFlow Delta Specs:

[Newest Model]: DELTA 1800
[100% More Battery Capacity]: 1260Wh (350Ah,3.7V)
[Compact Design] Dimensions: 15.7 x 8.3 x 10.6in (40 x 21 x 27cm)
[Light Weight]: 30.9lbs (14kg)
[Works in all Weather] Charge Temperature: 32-113℉ (0-45℃)
[Discharge In Freezing Temperatures]: -4 -113℉ (-20-45℃)
[Testing and Certifications]: UL, CE, FCC, RoHS, PSE
[Cell Chemistry]: Lithium-ion
[Shelf Life]: 1 Year (after fully charged)

How to Charge the EcoFlow Delta

[FAST AC Charge Time]: 90 minutes from 0-100% Charge, X-STREAM Charges @ 1200W max
[400 Watt of Solar Input] Charge Input: 400W 10-65V 10A max
[Car Charger Included] Charges: 12V/24V 10A max

EcoFlow Delta 1800W / 1300wH Plugs/Outputs:

[TONS Of Power]: 6 x AC Plug, Pure Sine Wave Inverter, 1800 Watts continuous (Surge of 3,300 Watts), 120V 60Hz.
[2 x USB-A Ports]: 12W per port, 5V 2.4A max
[2 x USB-A Fast Charge Ports]: 28W per port, 12V 2.4A max
[2 x USB-C Ports]: 60W per port, 20V 3A max
[1 x 12V (Car Cigarette Type) Ports]: 108.8W, 13.6V 8A max

Pros of the EcoFlow Delta

Despite storing nearly 1300Wh, the EcoFlow Delta can recharge its battery in less than 2 hours with the included AC supercharger. This wildly efficient technology makes it one of the fastest battery charging systems in any of today’s solar generators.

Aside from this, the Delta includes a car charger and plenty of outlet options to use the stored energy. Plus, it comes at an extremely affordable price. Together, these factors make the Delta the perfect choice for silent electricity on the go.

Cons of the EcoFlow Delta

Despite its convenience, there are a few drawbacks to the EcoFlow Delta. For one, the system is only rated to 800 lifecycles to 80% capacity. Essentially, this means that daily use may cause you to look for a new generator in about 3 years.

Beyond this, the Ecoflow Delta may be a bit nosier (but not much) than some of the other great generators on this list.

What can the EcoFlow Delta 1800 Actually Power?

Large Fridge 15-18+ Hours
Lights (10W) 36+ Hours
Coffee Maker 50+ Cups
Circular Saw 1+ Hours
Laptop 27+ Recharges
Electric Vehicle 3-5 miles (5-8 km)
CPAP Machine 20+ Hours
Air Conditioning 0.8+ Hours
Electric Blanket 25+ Hours

Buy here

2. The Bluetti AC200P [Quad Kit]

As a close #2, the Bluetti AC200P is a long-lasting power station with tons of power and storage capacity. Although it will cost you a bit more than the EcoFlow Delta, the Bluetti AC200P is built to deliver fruitful loads of electricity over a long operating lifetime.

Bluetti AC200P Specs:

2,000wh High Capacity Lithium Battery (LiFePO4)
2000W Inverter for Continuous AC Power
6 x AC (Wall) Outlets
1 x 60W PD 2.0 USB-C
4 x 5V/3A USB-A
1 x PV 35-150V/12A
1 x 12V/25A Output
LG premium electric-vehicle battery cell
3500+ Charge Cycles
MPPT Charge Controller
2*15W Wireless charging pads
Intelligent temperature-controlled cooling fan
Smart touchable LCD control panel
24 Month Warranty

Bluetti AC200P Inputs

DC Solar Charging- 700W/35-150V DC Maximum Solar Input (7 x watt 100-watt solar panels would be the max)
DC Car Charging 12V-30V, Minimum 120W
AC Charging Adapter: 58.2V/500W Limit (Charging from the wall in your home)

Bluetti AC200P Charging Speeds

Solar Charging - Fully Charged in 3.5 hours with 700W of Solar Input
DC Power - Car Charging - 15 hours+ driving
AC (Wall Outlet) Charging - About 4 Hours
Gasoline Generator with Power Adapter
Lead-Acid Battery Recharging using Clamp Adapter

Pros of the Bluetti AC200P

The 3500+ lifecycle rating really sets the Bluetti AC200P ahead of the rest of the pack. If you decide to purchase the Bluetti AC200P for sporadic use, then we can practically guarantee that you’ll never have to worry about buying another battery-powered outlet.

With 2000Wh of storage, the Bluetti AC 200P is also well suited for overnight or extended camping trips and tailgate parties.

Cons of the Bluetti AC200P

Unfortunately, the Bluetti weighs in at 55 lbs, making it 25 lbs heavier than the EcoFlow Delta. Designed for two-handed carrying, the Bluetti can be difficult to move for the mobility-impaired.

Aside from this, those not wanting to invest in long-term electricity may see the AC200P’s price as out of their budget range.

What Can the Bluetti AC200P Actually Power?

Cellphone (6 W): 250+ Hours
Light (10 W): 150+ Hours
GoPro (18 W): 90+ Hours
Camera (25 W): 60+ Hours
Laptop (50 W): 30+ Hours
CPAP Machine (60 W): 25+ Hours
Flat Screen TV (110 W): 13+ Hours
Large Fridge (150 W): 10+ Hours
Coffee Maker (600 W): 2+ Hours
Electric Grill (1650 W): About 1 Hour
Electric Vehicle (1800 W): 3-5 Miles
And more

Buy here

3. Lion Safari ME [GOLD Kit]

Next, the Lion Safari ME is a great portable power outlet with endless versatility and capability. The Safari ME’s modular design makes it possible to charge battery packs and deploy them for an endless supply of power.

Lion Safari ME Specs:

Output - AC [Standard Wall Plugs]: 2 (Easily split these with a surge protector or extension cable)
Output - USB: 2 USB-A & 2 USB-C
Rated Battery Capacity: 922wH + 2,048wH = 2,970 watt hours
Battery Type: Lithium
Inverter: 2000 Watt Continuous / 4000 Watt Surge - Pure Sine
Fastest Solar Recharge Time: Under 2 hours
Lifecycles: 2,000

Pros of the Lion Safari ME

The Lion Safari ME is perfect for extended periods in the outdoors with its highly efficient solar recharge times. The main unit itself (without a battery attached), offers 922Wh, which is perfect for CPAP machines or other long-running devices like fridges, TVs, and more.

Cons of the Lion Safari ME

With 2000W of continuous power, but only 2 wall outlets, it is possible that consumers may be overpaying for the inverter with such a limited connection port.

Aside from this, the Safari ME weighs 40 lbs, and so does each additional battery pack. Although the modular design breaks up the weight, the unit is still fairly massive.

What Can The Lion Safari ME Solar Generator Gold Kit Actually Power?

Full Size Fridge (120W) - 25+ Hours
Phone Charging (5W) - Charge up to 200+ times
Laptop Charging (56W) - Charge up to 50+ times
55" LCD T.V (75W) - 38+ Hours
LED Reading Lamp (4W) - 720+ Hours
Hot Plate (500W) - 5.8+ Hours
Air Conditioner (500W) - 5.8+ Hours
House Fan - (50W) - 60+ Hours
Microwave - (1k) - 3+ Hours
Electric Blanket (50W) - 60+ Hours
CPAP Machine (90W) - 28+ Hours

Buy here

4. MaxOak Bluetti EB240 Solar Generator [Quad Kit]

Just as in the other model above, MaxOak’s Bluetti EB240 is a great battery-powered outlet with a huge storage capacity. Although you may not be able to run your power tools with this one, the EB240 is ideal for long run times of low demand devices.

MaxOak Bluetti EB240 Specs:

Battery Capacity: 2400Wh (Watt Hours)
Battery Chemistry: LG Li-ion battery cells (Lithium)
AC Input: 7.9 x 0.9mm DC, 42V/160W (Wall Charger)
Open Circuit Voltage: 16V~60V /Max. 10A (For Solar Panel Charging)
AC Output: 110V, Max. 1000 Watts (Pure Sine Inverter)
CarPort (Cigarette Lighter): DC 12V/9A
USB Ports: 1 x 45W USB-C (5-20V) & 4 x 5V, 3A USB-A
Solar Charge Input/Mode: MPPT Charge Controller
Efficiency: 99.5%
Exact Size of Generator (Dimensions): 19.4 x 6.5 x 14.4 inches
Weight: 48.5lb
Warranty: 2-Years

Pros of the MaxOak Bluetti EB240

With 2400Wh of storage and a weight of fewer than 50 lbs, the Bluetti EB240 is perhaps the best storage generator pound-for-pound. With a convenient carrying handle and efficient solar charging, it is easy to charge and use the EB240 as a daily source of energy.

Cons of the MaxOak Bluetti EB240

Despite its efficiency, the EB240 still charges at a slower rate than most other generators on this list. Its 1000W inverter can also be limiting, but should not be a real concern with most low 0dmand electricity devices such as lights, refrigerators, CPAP machines, and small electronics.

What Can the Bluetti EB240 Solar Generator Actually Power?

Fridge/Freezer (100 watts): 24+ hours
50" TV (65 watts) : 37 hours
LED Lights (6 watts): 400 hours
House Fan (50 watts): 48 hours
Smartphones (5-7 watts): 400+ hours
Tablets (25-40 watts): 80+ hours
Laptops (50 watts): 48+ hours
Electric Blanket (Queen Size, 75 watts): 32 hours
CPAP Machine (30 watts): 80+ hours

Buy here

5. The Titan Solar Generator [500 Watt Kit]

Sometimes, we like to save the best for last, as the Titan Solar Generator is one of the most capable devices for portable electricity. More than just a battery-powered outlet, the Titan is an absolute machine capable of running an entire household.

If you are looking for the most powerful battery powered outlets you can find, then the Titan Solar Generator s is well worth the investment.

The Titan Specs:

Battery: 2000wH Lithium-Ion
Inverter: 3000W / 7700W Surge
2 MPPT Charge Controllers
Charging Options: Solar panels, AC, & DC
Outputs: 6 AC wall outlets, 4 DC (12V) ports, 1 RV Plug (30amp), and 8 total USB ports
Shelf Life: 3-6 Months
2-Year Warranty
Weight: ~35 lbs. (plus batteries)

Pros of the Titan Solar Generator

The Titan has a 2000Wh battery and a 3000W inverter, which is to say that it can keep the lights on and then some. Like the Safari ME, the Titan incorporates a swappable battery design, so it is always possible to have energy on hand.

With 6 AC outlets, 4 DC ports, 8 USB ports, and even an RV Plug, the Titan can run just about anything you plug into it.

Cons of the Titan Solar Generator

As you can imagine, the Titan is pretty hefty, but not overly so. The main unit is 35 lbs (more than the Delta), and each additional battery weighs about the same.

For weekend warriors, it is also possible that the Titan’s high asking price may be too much for all of its premium features.

What Can the Titan Solar Generator Actually Power? (Per battery pack)

Smartphones (5-7 watts): 330+ hours
Tablets (25-40 watts): 66+ hours
Laptops (50 watts): 40+ hours
Electric Blanket (Queen Size, 75 watts): 26+ hours
50" LED LCD TV* (65 watts) : 30 hours
Refrigerator (55 watts): 36+ hours
Chainable USB LED Lights (6 watts): 330+ hours
CPAP Machine (30 watts): 66+ hours

Buy here

P.S. After made up your mind about lithium solar batteries and generators, we recommend to have a look at an EMP Shield for more guarantee.

Did you find portable power stations guide helpful and planning to get one? then we think you should check our next blog: How to connect portable generator to electrical panel.