Solar-powered power banks sound like a brilliant idea—just attach some solar panels to a power bank, and you have a seemingly endless power source whenever the sun is out. But the truth is far from this optimistic vision.
The Challenges of Solar-Powered Power Banks
I’ve tested nearly two dozen solar-powered power banks, from various sources, including online marketplaces and outdoor stores. Unfortunately, none of them lived up to the expectations. In fact, many were not only ineffective but also potentially hazardous.
Heat Issues: The biggest problem is that using a solar-powered power bank means leaving a lithium-ion battery-filled device in direct sunlight. On a moderately hot day, I found that these power banks could reach temperatures as high as 80°C (176°F) within just 10 minutes of sun exposure. This is dangerously hot for lithium batteries and can lead to serious safety concerns.
Inefficient Charging: Even if the device doesn’t overheat, it’s unlikely to charge effectively. In my experience, solar-powered power banks often fail to charge fully, even after being left in the sun for days. Most struggle to reach even halfway.
Why Solar-Powered Power Banks Fall Short
The concept of a solar-powered power bank is appealing, but the execution falls short due to the inherent limitations of current technology. The small solar panels typically attached to these devices simply don’t generate enough power to charge the batteries efficiently, especially under real-world conditions where the sunlight isn’t always optimal.
Better Alternatives
Given these shortcomings, I can’t recommend any of the solar-powered power banks I’ve tested. However, there are better options:
- Power Banks Designed for Solar Panels: Devices like the Jackery Explorer Plus 100 and SolarSaga 40W are designed to work with small solar panels and can provide a more reliable and safer charging experience.
- Solar Power Stations: These are larger and more efficient setups that can be used to power multiple devices, including power banks.
- Charging from Your Vehicle: If you’re on the move and have access to a vehicle, charging your devices from the car is a reliable fallback option.
