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The solar energy market has seen significant growth, with installations in the U.S. increasing by about 34 percent from 2020 to 2021. Solar power is now one of the fastest-growing forms of renewable energy. Understanding the components of a solar power system, especially battery capacity, is crucial before making a purchase. Solar batteries store energy generated by solar panels for use when sunlight is not available.

Factors to consider when choosing a solar battery include efficiency, reliability, lifespan, size, support, and cost. Several manufacturers offer a range of solar batteries, including Mammoth RE and EG4, with various sizes and capabilities. Solar kits are also recommended as they offer a complete solution and can be more cost-effective than buying individual components. The Solar Lab is a resource for learning about home solar power.

Introduction

When understanding the state of the solar energy sector, the numbers tell a fascinating tale. For example, the cost of installing solar systems has dropped 70% over the past few decades, and projections say it will make up 40% of US energy by 2035. 

There's no doubt that Americans are paneling up at a rapid pace, especially as tax breaks and financial benefits incentivize homeowners to unhitch their wagons from the grid. Maybe you're thinking of following suit. 

As beneficial as solar power proves itself to be, either for self-sustainability, travel lifestyle, or reducing carbon footprints, it's also a significant investment—a worthwhile one, but massive nonetheless. So, before purchasing a multi-thousand dollar energy system, it's essential to know what they are and who makes the best solar generators. 

What Do Solar Generators Do?

A solar generator, also called a portable power station, is the central unit that controls the flow of electricity. It comes with a charge controller, battery, inverter, and multiple outlets for users to plug their devices into directly. It even has a handy display to show how much battery is left. 

The United States experiences more blackouts than any other developed nation due to regional climate change issues and failing grids. Because of this, most households have a power generator of some sort in case of emergency. But gas-powered generators have many downfalls, including noisiness, toxic emissions, and high costs. 

Solar generators, conversely, are noiseless, produce no harmful emissions, and are cheap to run. They consist of four main components:

• Charge Controller: Modulates the electricity intake to overloading or wearing out the battery
• Built-In Battery: Stores the electricity for backup power when needed
• Inverter: Takes the DC power from the battery or panels and converts it to AC, which powers appliances

This is the basic anatomy of every solar generator, but not all are created equal. To determine good from bad, you must understand key evaluation points to pick out the best solar generators for your needs. 

What Makes a Good Solar Generator?

When sorting through the options, you'll find all sorts of highfalutin claims from companies touting their unit as the "best" solar generator money can buy. To help make sense of these claims, you should understand a few critical metrics to judge competing claims scrupulously. 

• Power output: Measures unit’s total wattage
• Battery capacity: Always estimate how much battery you’ll need; the bigger the battery, the longer it lasts 
• Weight: Lighter generators are more portable but usually less powerful
• Price: Understand how factors like total power and battery affect the price

After understanding the various factors, you can investigate different brands to find the best solar generator that meets your needs.

Which Brands Make the Best Solar Generators?

The market for solar energy products is expanding at a blinding speed. A handful of companies have established themselves as trusted manufacturers of solar generators. Below are our picks for brands that consistently offer the best solar generator products in capacity, portability, support, and cost. 

EcoFlow

EcoFlow is one of the biggest names in solar energy and makes outstanding, efficient, and scalable units. So, whether you’re looking to run high-powered devices, charge electric vehicles, or need a compact unit for camping, EcoFlow is an excellent roster of affordable products.

EcoFlow Delta Max

EcoFlow’s Delta Max is an outstanding all-around generator, excellent for extended camping trips or emergency power supply. 

• Power output: 2,400 watts
• Battery capacity: 3,600 watt-hours (Wh)
• Weight: 48 lbs
• Price: $1,799 (generator), $2,149 (nomad kit), $4,459 (quad kit)

EcoFlow Delta Pro

The EcoFlow Delta Pro is amazing for heftier needs and powers up to 10 home circuits and reaches upwards of 6,500 watts with additional batteries. The Delta Pro is an excellent generator for emergencies or everyday use. 

• Power output: 3,600 watts
• Battery capacity: 3,600 Wh
• Weight: 26.5 to 36.8 lbs
• Price:  $2,699 (generator), $3,689 (nomad kit, 2 rigid panels), $4,859 (hex kit, 6 rigid panels)

EcoFlow Delta 2

The Delta 2 is the most compact and lightest of EcoFlow’s offerings. Compact and budget-friendly, it’s an excellent option for taking on the road or a wilderness retreat. 

• Power output: 1,800 watts
• Battery capacity: 1,024 Wh
• Weight: 27 lbs
• Price:  $999 (generator), $1,439 (nomad kit, 2 folding panels), $1,289 (quad kit, 4 rigid panels)

Bluetti

Bluetti remains a top-dog brand when it comes to quality all-in-one kits. Their generators are great for powering your home, vehicle, or campsite for an extended period. 

Bluetti AC200P

This model is small but mighty. Weighing in at only 26.5 lbs, it’s great to take on the go but also packs a punch. At full capacity, it can charge a small fridge for over 20 hours. 

• Power output: 2,000 watts
• Battery capacity: 2,000 Wh
• Weight: 26.5 lbs
• Price: $1,699 (generator), $2,149 (nomad kit), $4,459 (quad kit)

Bluetti EP900

The EP900 is Bluetti’s most powerful generator. For those who yearn for full energy independence, this fully modular generator is an easy way to harvest the sun’s energy to power homes for weeks. 

• Power output: 9,000 watts
• Battery capacity: 10,000-20,000 Wh

Jackery

If you're looking for power on the go, Jackery is an excellent choice. Jackery offers many smaller portable generators, perfect for camping and RV setups. They also have a free warranty period, customer service, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Start by checking out their Explorer series, which ranges from $500-$3,500, depending on capacity. 

Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro

The Explorer 2000 is a camper's dream: powerful, eco-friendly, and noiseless. Overall, it’s a great option for powering devices for long trips. 

• Power output: 2,200 watts
• Battery capacity: 2,160 Wh
• Weight: 43 lbs
• Price: $1,999 (generator), $2,459 (eclipse kit), $3,659 (nomad kit)

Consider Buying a Solar Kit for Your Next Solar Power Generator

Many power generators come as standalone units without panels, meaning additional costs. Save money and time by purchasing a generator kit, an all-inclusive and easy way to power up with a portable supply immediately. 

Kits come with panels, connectors, wiring guides, and everything you need for an effortless setup.

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