Thank you Todd ! You are the GZ go to man. I had to send my Boulder 100's back . As you say , way to heavy and hard to move around. More GZ and solar videos - please-
The input box at the back of the TP started to smoke when the 8mm plug temporarily fell out. It melted the plastic box. I'm glad I caught it and video taped it. Anyone else?
Im shopping for panels on black Friday and im realizing these are all from China. That's why they have these weird brand names. Usually I avoid off brand electronics from China on Amazon. But I don't really see any other options
Thanks! I'm currently testing this variant of TP folding panels and they are also quite nice. You can't easily angle them so they are more fo a solar blanket but they fold down in a really small package and use the same kind of panel material. Sort of depends if you want a thinner, larger footprint or more of a brick - www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07ZZ8VY2V?pf_rd_r=WRQ9NBQC937T7N8MG2D8&pf_rd_p=edaba0ee-c2fe-4124-9f5d-b31d6b1bfbee
After watching your "1,000 watts of solar panels" I purchased the TP Solar Fairy 100W Portable Foldable Solar Panel to use with my GC Yeti 500X. Finally had a sunny day today so I thought I would try it out. Hooked everything up and.....Nothing. So I read the trouble shooting info which said to contact them via Amazon. Went to the product description and found this information: "Q2: Why our solar panels are not compatible with Goal Zero Yeti. In order to adapt to most of the mobile power stations on the market, the open circuit voltage of the solar panel is set to about 24V, while the adaptation voltage of Goal Zero is narrow, only 12-22V. When Goalzero detects that the input voltage exceeds 22V, it will prohibit charging. So it is not compatible (if you are a Goal Zero user, please let us know, we will give you a custom step-down box to reduce the voltage to 21V to fit your power station)".......I'm more than a little confused that your TP panels work fine, even though TP claims they shouldn't work at all with the Yeti. I've contacted the company and asked for the "Step Down Box". Hopefully they send it out.
Since I made that video, they changed their panels from 19v to 25v. If you have an older Yeti with PWM charger, I’d return it and get a 19v panel. If you have MPPT, you can use these 25v panels, no problem
@@todd.parker I was trying it with my 500X, unfortunately it only has one 8mm port: Charging port (input, 8mm): 13-22V, up to 10A (150W max). I reached out to the company and they are sending me the "step down box" (They actually replied within 90 minutes of me sending the email). If the voltage reducing adapter works, I will have a very portable power system & Panel for traveling. Good to know about it working with the MPPT on my 1000Li. Thanks for the information.
Yeah, I think durability of the surface and connections will be the big question. From what I’ve seen ETFE is the best option for this kind of panel, too bad to hear there still may be issues. How much use before the problem happened for you?
Would be interesting to see the longevity of the hinges as the thinner folding panels would have more fragile wires than the chunkier panels. I have the fabric ones shown about 1:40 and they are still doing well
The only thing that makes sense as far as the usb adapter is it's supposed to be used with the alligator clips. Usb out box adapter, extension, clips to battery. I saw similar looking usb to 12v adapters all over the place, so I'm assuming it outputs 14.4 from usb, allowing direct connection to a 12v battery.
Thanks for the review Todd. I just purchased the 120W folding TPSOLAR panel and am pretty impressed so far. Even at 6:30am here in the summer in "sunny" British Columbia, I have enough juice off the panels USB output to charge any of my batteries. Around 10am it gets enough juice to charge two things at once. I imagine once my Jackery 240 comes I will know better on how the wattage output is working (it caps at 40W unfortunately, but something to see if its cloudy or whatever). Otherwise pleased with it, and its so damn light!
@@todd.parker quick update here, got the Jackery 240 and it seems they did a shadow upgrade to the solar charge controller! While the wall plug still only charges the thing at 40W, my 120W panel was able to go to 60W! Crazy, since even the manual mentions a 40W charge speed, though I have seen forum posts that confirm what I mentioned.
Alright after seeing this review I am going to give one a try. I am a big time Goal Zero fanboi but I want to put the Boulder 50 I use for the back deck up on the roof with my other two. I plan on using this one for camping/bbqing. I will let you know how it goes!
Another great informative video. I'm just starting down this path. Got the Yeti 3000X and Boulder 200. Still learning what I can get out of solar and how much generator usage I'll need to compensate for use-vs-generate deficit. These panels seem like a great alternative to the B-200. It's a great panel, but quite heavy and difficult to move around. I live in a townhouse facing south so have to deploy panels on my driveway and keep moving them around. Those foldable panels look perfect for my situation and much easier to handle
Thanks! Yeah, the Boulder 100's are beasts, I can't imagine how much heavier those 200's are! My opinion on them is they are really well made, will last decades, have a nice built-in stand, and are probably more weather- proof (rain, snow, wind) than any sort of folding panel. However, I'm now leaning towards selling mine and going all in on folding panels because they are so light and easy to store/move. I'm getting a delivery of more TP-Solar's 100w (and 60 and 30) soon and will be testing these in the next month - www.amazon.com/TP-solar-Foldable-Portable-Generator-Smartphones/dp/B07ZZ8VY2V I'd rather get more of these, throw them on the deck/ground/table flat (solar blanket style) and accept the reduction in output from not angling or use the larger folding panels from this video with the little stands I showed to eek more power out. Yes, they may not last as long but my back will appreciate it. I can probably carry 800w of folding panels in one trick without breaking a sweat. Output per rated watt is about the same. The only issue I see is needing to use these panels in the winter - laying them in the snow or slushy deck might be a bad idea while the Boulders would be fine. Glad you got the 3000, I wish I had gotten a bigger unit. I'd suggest getting a small generator to use as a way to recharge the Yeti when the weather is bad or it's night and thinking of the Yeti as the buffer for solar and generator power. You can mostly cruise from the battery/solar and fire up the generator for a few hours to charge the Yeti when you have a shortfall.
@@todd.parker Thank Todd. My thinking about the Yeti 3000X is as you said (I posted another comment on another of your vids about that). As for the Boulder-vs-folding panels - I just tried to flatten my B-200 and the power went down form 145 WH to 126WH, and this is on a sunny day. 15% loss for the simplicity and convenience of laying out 3-4 of the TPs (and my back too, of course !) is a big winner. I'll order one of the TPs 120W and see how it works. Can I mix-n-match inputs into the same yeti (meaning APP from the B-200 and an 8mm from the TP), just for testing?. Once i decide which one I keep, I'll consolidate all of them to the APP. BTW, with the folding panels, I assume you can hang them from a tree, garage door, etc and maximize the driveway/front area. Looking fwd to see your next analysis. Very enjoyable vids. Keep it coming ;-)
@@jessyschoss Yep, you can use any combination of inputs as long as you stay below ~320 watts combined per charge module (PWN and MPPT). The 4x Anderson combiner is a great option for summing these 8mm output panels. In my testing, the output reduction was similar and it got me thinking that just chucking these flat on the ground or table might be simplest, especially if you're not messing with angling them throughout the day. Hanging them vertically will probably reduce their output quite a bit since they will be off axis from the sun, might want to test that drop-off. I'll do a video when I get those TP panels, they are sending me a bunch to test, going to try to max out the yeti with 800w of panels just for fun (actual input will be well within 720w). Guess I need a second combiner cable...
@@todd.parker Hanging is probably sub-optimal and I'll try it once I get the TP 120W. However, it's hanging 1-3 of those vs. carrying the B-200 an angling it every hour or so.....
@@jessyschoss Great advice about getting a smaller unit to recharge the larger one. I have a yeti 3000 and a yeti 500x. I would recommend the Dometic fridges, if you are needing refrigeration. I have a midsize, cfx50w
Great video again. However after 2.5 years full-time nomad in desert to mtns, the lightweight fabric panels do not hold up very well compared to my 3yo GZ Boulder 100 and GZ Boulder 50w (still standing strong). The fabric panels fade, start to become sun damaged, get blown over by the wind easily, pockets get full of dust..etc. Going back to alum framed panels for nomad use.
I agree the typical fabric panels are only good for occasional use in good weather but they do have the benefit of being so much smaller and lighter than glass. I think the perfect blend is the GZ ranger panels that use rugged ETFE panels in a thin aluminum frame so they are sturdy and weatherproof but light. They are just way too expensive . I tried reviewing an alternative brand take on it but their panel materials weren’t good enough for me to post a video. I’ll keep looking though,
Hey Todd thank you so much for this video! Could you please let me know what type of extension cord I would need to be compatible with this and the goal zero 1000? I need 30- 50 ft
Thanks! I bought this one - 50 Foot Lighted Outdoor Extension Cord with 3 Electrical Power Outlets - 10/3 SJTW Yellow 10 Gauge Extension Cable with 3 Prong Grounded Plug for Safety www.amazon.com/dp/B078KBCXKT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_N4gsFbPAQB9TD
Todd, you said you would shorten the eagle legs. How far of an angle do you want to achieve? Its angle out of the box because the leg allows a little flexibility is between 150° and 200 °
I think the panels need to be from 24-72 degrees depending on month where I live. I think the stave is close but needs to angle back just a bit more. www.solarelectricityhandbook.com/solar-angle-calculator.html
A sliding leg would be best. Summer time you probably want 45 deg or less and in the winter more like 60 deg which is close to what the easel is out of the box. If you shorten the leg, you will want a way to raise it in the winter months.
I bet you could bungee it to your kayak. These panels aren’t waterproof but I’m guessing they could get splashed and be ok. The junction box is the spot that is most sensitive to water, the panels top surface can get wet.
Hi Todd! About 8 months ago I commented on this video regarding the 120W Top Solar panel. I wound up buying one of the 120W panels, and liked it so much I just recently purchased another so I would have 240W. Now, my question is … What connectors did you use to connect the two panels in parallel, and plug in to your GZY? I have an Anker power station which I’m sure has a similar port to plug in to. I would appreciate your input if you recall your setup. Thanks Brotha! 😎
I used 4x 8mm combiner cables for my Goal Zero Yeti. Alternatively you can use the MC4 connectors and get a combiner cable but I think 8mm is probably easiest
Excellent review! I am looking at the TP-Solar 100 watt version. Do you see any potential long-term issues with the connections between the panel sections along the lines where they fold? Thanks!
So far so good but it’s hard to really see how beefy the connections are. The 100w has many more folds so that increases the risk a bit I suppose but it’s a cool design for laying flat
@@todd.parker Yes I'm interested in the 100w version for it's lighter weight and increased compactness when not in use. Hopefully if used with care it will last a long time.
@@theadventurebiker Yeah, I've been tempted to pick one up because it's tiny. The only downside is since it's so floppy, seems you can't angle them easily to catch the full sun but that's not a huge issue.
Adventure Bike I see the appeal of the foldable 100 being your choice is you are a bike or biker. . The grommets are small but you can use small bungee cords to attach it upon your bike frame.
Todd ... Great review! Love the content, straight forward and to the point. You always have good ideas no matter what you do. I looked for the TP 120W panels via your link, but it lead me to the TOPSOLAR 120W panels. I’m assuming they are the updated/upgraded version of what you reviewed? Great job Sir! 👍🏼 😎
Thanks for video. I'm thinking about getting a GZ Yeti 500x as well as TP panels. The 500x has two 8mm charging ports but apparently con't be used at the same time. Wondering if you would recommend a way (or product) of connecting two 120W TP panels, by way of adapter, in to a single 8mm port in the Yeti.
I’m sure you could find an 8mm y connector to sum these but the max I put is 150w so 2x100w would be more than enough. Charging port (input, 8mm): 13-22V, up to 10A (150W max)
@@todd.parker I thought 8mm y connector would be easy to find as well, however cant find one anywhere. I think I'll have to go the long way round and connect via MC4 connections.
Any chance you have an extra panel you've reviewed that's 100 watt with a mp4 adapter for the 300 watt Golabs. I'll pay you for it. Was looking for a fold up. Just looking for something to continue my experiments with my grandchildren with solar until I can afford the panel I actually really want. If this is inappropriate, I apologize.
I just spent a couple days researching and testing my new TP Solar 100W foldable panel. As I rewatched your video, when you were going through the supplied accessories, you said you weren't sure how you would use the USB to 12V connector. I puzzled over it for awhile and my conclusion is that you plug the USB end into one of the the 5/9/12 V ports on the solar panel and use the other end to attach the 4' extension cable to, then attach whatever final attachment is required for the the target (i.e., 12V battery was their recommendation), such as the short attachment with the alligator clip ends. That way the maximum voltage to the 12V battery that is being recharged would be 14V, as noted on the charge specs printed on that strange USB adapter. I don't believe the round connection should go into the 19V port on the solar panel (even though it fits) because it doesn't make sense to find a connector to go from the USB side to a 12V battery. That was a very unusual adapter with little description of how to use it until I connected all the dots! Recap: only the USB output ports on the solar panel should be used to charge any 12V battery. Confirmation of this theory is greatly appreciated.
Interesting theory. So you think you connect the box to to usb output of the panels and that up converts it to 12v? I should try to see if I can combine that with the regular 12v output to charge the yeti a tiny bit faster? How do you like the panels?
@@todd.parker I'm not sure that little USB connector gadget is doing any conversion, but it might be. It says it is 14.4V (if I remember), and plugging it into the 5/9/12 V USB outputs makes sense. Maybe that box in the middle of the adapter is protecting it if it goes over 14.4 volts. A mini regulator? I partially like the panels, but have only explored the hookups for a couple days. I thought my first one was defective (reason to follow) and today tested the replacement. Both started charging my Jackery 500 battery at 62 W, then if the voltage dropped down (clouds, shadow on panel, etc), they wouldn't return to the 62 W input, but stopped at 42 W. To get it to go back up to 62 W, I would unplug then replug in the input to the Jackery and it would go back up to 62 W until another cloud passed by. I decided it was normal. My Jackery recharged from 86% to 100%, even at the lower input voltage, in less than 2 hours. Happy with that. Another unexpected thing I discovered, was if I shadowed one panel (out of the 10 or 12 folds) with my hand, the voltage to my Jackery dropped to zero even with the sun shining brightly on the whole unit. .... It's been a great day of getting to know my system.
Further research about the shadow issue showed me that if the panels are wired in series and the voltage drop depends upon where in the series the shadow occurs. The shadowing I made was the panel just prior to the output connectors. Tomorrow I'll shadow different panels to see what happens.
Description from the Amazon page: "The kit comes with a 14.5V charge controlling box, it can charge the 12 volt battery for cars boats RVs marine etc directly. Please don't charge the 12V battery by connecting to the DC 19V port with a solar charge controller, it may damaged the circuitry in the junction box." So, you plug the USB plug to the QC3.0 port on the panel box and the alligator clips to the other end and you can charge (more likely just top-up) your car battery...
Say, I am considering one of these to stay in my balcony most of the year and help with eletric bills and to use for camping during summer. What do you will be the best move, get one of those TP because of the extra portability or the goal zero, which will be harder to carry but far more durable? Any thoughts on that? Thanks.
If you’re looking to have panels outside most of the year, I’d stick with glass or flexible panels with MC4 connectors. Folding panels aren’t designed to be out in the weather
$600 tho. I think a 200w foldable panel is probably pretty bulky and floppy so I’d rather have 3x 100’s for the same price from Rockpal or TP-Solar but I’d take a review unit if they gave me one!
Hi Todd great video finally someone explained this information to me, that I can understand how these things work. My questions is, I have the YETI 1250W AGM which I love. Can I use these panels in addition to my 100W Boulder panels? Please info. Thank you!
Thank you Sir I will purchase those panels using the links you provided. Also after watching your video on Fast Charging Options I purchase most of the items needed using your link. I went with the ALP 1,000 Watt Propane Generator instead of the RYOBI 900 Watt Propane Generator. Which I believe they are discontinued, once again thank you.
At about the 5:53 mark you mention this is backed by a 15 year warranty, but I can’t find any warranty info on the Amazon listing. Just curious on how you found this out? Someone asked about this in the questions section of the Amazon listing, and the response was 1 year warranty.
Huh, I just checked the listing and you’re right! Maybe I was thrown off by this in the description: “Waterproof and Durable: The solar panel is fully laminated, made by advanced laminated technology and long lasting ETFE material, made for long term use over 15 years.”...seems they don’t cover 14 of those!
Do you know what size the plug is on the primary DC cable? I was thinking of trying to get a cable with MC4 on one end and DC male plug on the other. This would hopefully replace the supplied thin MC4 adapter/cable (as mentioned in your video).
Is there a good way to connect this with my renogy mppt controller in my van to charge 2 AGM batteries? I would plan on parking in the shade and running a long cord to this in the sun. Thank you
I agree. A glass panel is better for a fixed location but for portable panels that you deploy on a sunny day and carry around a folding panel is way better imo.
According to Goal Zero, what matters is the total power going into the PWN and MPPT modules regardless of which combination of ports you use in each. Both have a 360w max overall (total of 720w) but you can't exceed the individual port max ratings.
The barrel connector to USB thing is a DC to DC converter to provide a minimum of 14.2v DC from a 12v DC source. I don't know what uses a 14.2V USB port tho.
It's used to trickle charge a 12 volts battery. Most people would use the alligator clips to charge the battery but doing so has a risk of overcharging. Trickle charging with the USB adapter allows the circuity to provide either a 3 or 4 stage charging capability to charge a deep cycle battery safely. At least that is how I am understanding the adapter. I may be wrong though.
@@pjfoumc My understanding is you CAN use the alligator clips and the cigarette lighter adapter to charge a car battery. For example, the battery's voltage is too low to start the charge (ie dead battery), you can attach the alligator clips to the battery OR plug the cigarette lighter adapter into an "always on" accessory port and allow the controller to pump current into the battery. But, you will have to monitor the battery voltage so it does not become overcharge, which is highly unlikely since the battery is dead and it would take a very long time to completely charge the battery. But, the example applies to any battery, really. If you do not use the USB adapter to trickle charge the battery, you will have to frequently check on the battery to insure it does not become overcharged.
Great video! What about placing these foldable panels in the front window of my car? Do you think I would still get the same or near to same solar power through the front window? If I parked the car in the direction of the sun, the window would give a nearly natural tilt angle to the sun to optimize the power? What do you think? Or would the panel get too hot?
According to this article “placing the panel behind the windshield will reduce the light received by the panel by 30-40% as a best case” - www.powerfilmsolar.com/education/the-horizon-blog/2019/04/26/will-a-solar-panel-work-behind-glass
Another question that I have is about the easel. Looks very cool, but what do you do for leaning a TP 120W panel on it? Seems a bit too big for that easel, no?
I think performance is about the same. I have a rockpals 50w panel and it is very beefy and well made. This panel is less expensive, lighter weight and may be better in the damp because it’s not fabric
Oh and for the money, it’s a good value. The Jackery solar saga also looks good but doesn’t fold up as small, is 100w and $90 more. Jackery SolarSaga 100W Portable Solar Panel for Explorer 160/240/500/1000 Power Station, Foldable US Solar Cell Solar Charger with USB Outputs for Phones (Can't Charge Explorer 440/ PowerPro) www.amazon.com/dp/B07Q71LX84/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_7y4bFbPP4EC7X
Hi Todd, I recently purchased these panels for my GYZ 500x, and I was wondering if you could help with a problem I'm seeing. If I plug the output of the panels directly into the 500x with the 8mm adapter, the 500x fails to charge. I suspect this may be because I'm getting about 25-26V off the panel output and the 500x accepts 22V maximum. If I use the supplied 19V step-down adapter, it successfully charges, but I only get about 45 watts output from the panel. The step-down module is only rated at 3A, which I suspect is maybe the problem, and I was wondering if you encountered this problem.
The barrel connector should be 19v on these panels. I measured a bunch of the folding panels and they are all 19-20v. If it’s 25-26v, that seems much higher than they are supposed to be - more what I see from their glass and flexible panels. I agree with your other conclusions but you should contact TP and ask about the voltage, maybe you got a bad panel?
Hi Chris. I have encountered the same problem. Only getting about 45 watts output when using the 19V step-down adapter. Interestingly I had the 19V step down going for a while and then removed it and tried charging without which did work for about a minute and then failed. When it was working I was getting about 75-80 watts. Wondering if you have had any luck working out the problem??
@@todd.parker I am using the 120 watt panels (same one as your video). They are advertised as 19V but only seem to work when you use the step down adapter. I looked at the yeti 1000 specs as well which have same maximum of 22V as the yeti 500x. Not sure why it doesnt work.
@@willkenneally61 that is super strange. So you’re seeing higher than 19v if you measure that port? I’ve seen one of these panels with a bad 19v port that didn’t have any output but it sounds like your problem is different.
Glad it was helpful. I was looking for reviews of this panel before I bought it and there wasn’t anything. Making videos of stuff I could t find answers to.
Any plans to review the Boulder 200? I just bought the larger Yeti 3000 for emergency back-up power and am looking into ways I can charge it when the AC goes out. Solar doesn't quite work for me as my porch is covered so any panel would only get "sky" light and not direct sunlight. But linking a few of the Boulder 200's together might that offset the difference? I've figured with the GZ fast charger plugged into a 1000W gas generator I could recharge the Yeti 3000 during the daylight hours when noise isn't a problem and then after the sun goes down run the Yeti alone to keep my fridge and other essentials powered during an outage.
I don’t own the 200 and probably won’t since they are petty bulky and heavy. If the panels don’t have direct sunlight, adding more won’t get you enough power to help. Adding a small generator to change it up is a good idea and you probably can connect 2 fast chargers - one into the PWM and a second the MPPT to charge faster then cruise between charges on battery power. I have some videos of a similar setup. Good luck!
i think the goal zero panels would last a lot longer then the cheaper foldable panels. i think you can throw away the foldable panels after a year or 2 to 5, where the goal zero pannels would be still working after 15 - 20 years...
In a mobile setup such as a van, you will be paying for extra gas to move the greater weight of glass panels. I wonder how that affects the cost over that time.
Todd, Txs for this review. Nice to see other portable options. The GZ Plus portable solar panels have the added feature of restarting when a cloud passes overhead. Do these have that same feature? PS Good job as always with your reviews. 👍
Good Q re: restarting. I’ll say yes because I definitely charged the yeti to 100% on partly cloudy days. Though I didn’t test the USBs for a super long time
Thanks for the video, Todd. I have a yeti 1400 and carry around the Boulder 100, primarily to use with our RoadTrek class b. Glad I stumbled on your channel, and might get the 120w for better portability (I think a set of two should work well). BTW there’s a RUclips video that’s seems to use your Amazon review pics and words, so maybe report it? ruclips.net/video/RFuvFG436nE/видео.html Cheers, Jack
Hey thanks! I’ve been enjoying the folding panels quite a bit and in fact just sold one Boulder 100 this weekend because I now have so many folding panels and they are much lighter and smaller. Kept one Boulder as a reference though, they are excellent. Those fake videos keep popping up, thanks for the heads up!
Todd Parker Yeah, I saw more after I found that one, not sure what can be done about it, if anything. At least you know that imitation is the greatest form of flattery. I’ll keep my Boulder 100 as well, hopefully to use on our future tiny home - wanting a combo of tiny house with our class b, a little land for growing stuff and we’ll be happy. Looking forward to more videos.
Todd, just bought 2 120W folding panels w/ amazon’s prime day sale ($197 ea), in addition to some gift card money I had leftover... Can’t wait to try them out on next camping trip! Need to get the mppt module for the yeti 1400 (last one I had failed, returned) but willing to give it another try, hopefully it was just a bad unit. Oh, great camper-suv build! Thought about doing that to our odyssey, but ended up buying the Roadtrek. Thinking of hanging them with S hooks on side of van, or prop them against vehicle since they don’t have built in hinge. Trying to avoid additional costs of easels, but we’ll see. Later!
That’s the concern, yes. I think glass panels are the gold standard in longevity and weather resistance but if you value size and weight over that, these are a very good option and should work for 15 years+ (warranty)
Read the reviews. All solar panels underperform. The Nomads significantly underperform. Also, I can buy an equivalent Boulder panel typically for 2/3 to 1/2 the price. I credit you for the marketing hype.
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Once again thank you for your professional video. Was absolutely nice as always. Looking forward for your next test.
Thanks, I really appreciate that. I just saw the weird text overlay halfway through. D’oh
@@todd.parker Not a big deal. Great vid with the standard real world info that help other users. Thanks Todd!
Thank you Todd ! You are the GZ go to man. I had to send my Boulder 100's back . As you say , way to heavy and hard to move around. More GZ and solar videos - please-
Hey thanks! I have a few more lithium battery/yeti/solar videos coming soon
The input box at the back of the TP started to smoke when the 8mm plug temporarily fell out. It melted the plastic box. I'm glad I caught it and video taped it. Anyone else?
Woah, scary. Definitely upload a video on it
Im shopping for panels on black Friday and im realizing these are all from China. That's why they have these weird brand names. Usually I avoid off brand electronics from China on Amazon. But I don't really see any other options
Great videos helping me learn a lot. You said angled panels are the best. Even at noon angled is better than flat
Great video and review! I’ve been in search for a good folding option to use for off-roading and this may very well be what I choose. Thanks!
Thanks! I'm currently testing this variant of TP folding panels and they are also quite nice. You can't easily angle them so they are more fo a solar blanket but they fold down in a really small package and use the same kind of panel material. Sort of depends if you want a thinner, larger footprint or more of a brick - www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07ZZ8VY2V?pf_rd_r=WRQ9NBQC937T7N8MG2D8&pf_rd_p=edaba0ee-c2fe-4124-9f5d-b31d6b1bfbee
Great review. I have one boulder 100 and was going to purchase a 2nd. I’ll wait for the 120 watt version to come back on at Amazon
Cool, I think you’ll like it. Maybe it will come back in stock a built in kickstand!
Thanks for the video. After a couple viewings I finally pulled the trigger and order led the 120w and the tripods you recommended.
I’m still liking mine, they are so light!
Just purchased the 60 W TP. Have not tested it yet living in FLA. Hope it can charge my Prymax 300 and not take to long.
After watching your "1,000 watts of solar panels" I purchased the TP Solar Fairy 100W Portable Foldable Solar Panel to use with my GC Yeti 500X. Finally had a sunny day today so I thought I would try it out. Hooked everything up and.....Nothing. So I read the trouble shooting info which said to contact them via Amazon. Went to the product description and found this information: "Q2: Why our solar panels are not compatible with Goal Zero Yeti. In order to adapt to most of the mobile power stations on the market, the open circuit voltage of the solar panel is set to about 24V, while the adaptation voltage of Goal Zero is narrow, only 12-22V. When Goalzero detects that the input voltage exceeds 22V, it will prohibit charging. So it is not compatible (if you are a Goal Zero user, please let us know, we will give you a custom step-down box to reduce the voltage to 21V to fit your power station)".......I'm more than a little confused that your TP panels work fine, even though TP claims they shouldn't work at all with the Yeti. I've contacted the company and asked for the "Step Down Box". Hopefully they send it out.
Since I made that video, they changed their panels from 19v to 25v. If you have an older Yeti with PWM charger, I’d return it and get a 19v panel. If you have MPPT, you can use these 25v panels, no problem
@@todd.parker I was trying it with my 500X, unfortunately it only has one 8mm port: Charging port (input, 8mm): 13-22V, up to 10A (150W max). I reached out to the company and they are sending me the "step down box" (They actually replied within 90 minutes of me sending the email). If the voltage reducing adapter works, I will have a very portable power system & Panel for traveling. Good to know about it working with the MPPT on my 1000Li. Thanks for the information.
I'd like to see a future update on these ETFE panels in the future - In the past I bought some Renogy ETFE panels and had some micro cracking issues
Yeah, I think durability of the surface and connections will be the big question. From what I’ve seen ETFE is the best option for this kind of panel, too bad to hear there still may be issues. How much use before the problem happened for you?
Would be interesting to see the longevity of the hinges as the thinner folding panels would have more fragile wires than the chunkier panels. I have the fabric ones shown about 1:40 and they are still doing well
The only thing that makes sense as far as the usb adapter is it's supposed to be used with the alligator clips. Usb out box adapter, extension, clips to battery. I saw similar looking usb to 12v adapters all over the place, so I'm assuming it outputs 14.4 from usb, allowing direct connection to a 12v battery.
Good call
Thanks for the review Todd. I just purchased the 120W folding TPSOLAR panel and am pretty impressed so far. Even at 6:30am here in the summer in "sunny" British Columbia, I have enough juice off the panels USB output to charge any of my batteries. Around 10am it gets enough juice to charge two things at once. I imagine once my Jackery 240 comes I will know better on how the wattage output is working (it caps at 40W unfortunately, but something to see if its cloudy or whatever). Otherwise pleased with it, and its so damn light!
Glad you like it. I’m bringing my TP Solar panels camping this summer to keep my Yeti and fridge charged up and my Boulder panels are staying home.
@@todd.parker quick update here, got the Jackery 240 and it seems they did a shadow upgrade to the solar charge controller! While the wall plug still only charges the thing at 40W, my 120W panel was able to go to 60W! Crazy, since even the manual mentions a 40W charge speed, though I have seen forum posts that confirm what I mentioned.
Blender For All that’s great!
Alright after seeing this review I am going to give one a try. I am a big time Goal Zero fanboi but I want to put the Boulder 50 I use for the back deck up on the roof with my other two. I plan on using this one for camping/bbqing. I will let you know how it goes!
Great content... FYI @ 9:35 you have a general text box pop up that wasn’t changed. Thanks for the video
Gah, I know. Wish I could fix that!
Another great informative video. I'm just starting down this path. Got the Yeti 3000X and Boulder 200. Still learning what I can get out of solar and how much generator usage I'll need to compensate for use-vs-generate deficit. These panels seem like a great alternative to the B-200. It's a great panel, but quite heavy and difficult to move around. I live in a townhouse facing south so have to deploy panels on my driveway and keep moving them around. Those foldable panels look perfect for my situation and much easier to handle
Thanks! Yeah, the Boulder 100's are beasts, I can't imagine how much heavier those 200's are! My opinion on them is they are really well made, will last decades, have a nice built-in stand, and are probably more weather- proof (rain, snow, wind) than any sort of folding panel. However, I'm now leaning towards selling mine and going all in on folding panels because they are so light and easy to store/move. I'm getting a delivery of more TP-Solar's 100w (and 60 and 30) soon and will be testing these in the next month - www.amazon.com/TP-solar-Foldable-Portable-Generator-Smartphones/dp/B07ZZ8VY2V
I'd rather get more of these, throw them on the deck/ground/table flat (solar blanket style) and accept the reduction in output from not angling or use the larger folding panels from this video with the little stands I showed to eek more power out. Yes, they may not last as long but my back will appreciate it. I can probably carry 800w of folding panels in one trick without breaking a sweat. Output per rated watt is about the same. The only issue I see is needing to use these panels in the winter - laying them in the snow or slushy deck might be a bad idea while the Boulders would be fine.
Glad you got the 3000, I wish I had gotten a bigger unit. I'd suggest getting a small generator to use as a way to recharge the Yeti when the weather is bad or it's night and thinking of the Yeti as the buffer for solar and generator power. You can mostly cruise from the battery/solar and fire up the generator for a few hours to charge the Yeti when you have a shortfall.
@@todd.parker Thank Todd. My thinking about the Yeti 3000X is as you said (I posted another comment on another of your vids about that). As for the Boulder-vs-folding panels - I just tried to flatten my B-200 and the power went down form 145 WH to 126WH, and this is on a sunny day. 15% loss for the simplicity and convenience of laying out 3-4 of the TPs (and my back too, of course !) is a big winner. I'll order one of the TPs 120W and see how it works. Can I mix-n-match inputs into the same yeti (meaning APP from the B-200 and an 8mm from the TP), just for testing?. Once i decide which one I keep, I'll consolidate all of them to the APP. BTW, with the folding panels, I assume you can hang them from a tree, garage door, etc and maximize the driveway/front area. Looking fwd to see your next analysis. Very enjoyable vids. Keep it coming ;-)
@@jessyschoss Yep, you can use any combination of inputs as long as you stay below ~320 watts combined per charge module (PWN and MPPT). The 4x Anderson combiner is a great option for summing these 8mm output panels. In my testing, the output reduction was similar and it got me thinking that just chucking these flat on the ground or table might be simplest, especially if you're not messing with angling them throughout the day. Hanging them vertically will probably reduce their output quite a bit since they will be off axis from the sun, might want to test that drop-off. I'll do a video when I get those TP panels, they are sending me a bunch to test, going to try to max out the yeti with 800w of panels just for fun (actual input will be well within 720w). Guess I need a second combiner cable...
@@todd.parker Hanging is probably sub-optimal and I'll try it once I get the TP 120W. However, it's hanging 1-3 of those vs. carrying the B-200 an angling it every hour or so.....
@@jessyschoss Great advice about getting a smaller unit to recharge the larger one. I have a yeti 3000 and a yeti 500x.
I would recommend the Dometic fridges, if you are needing refrigeration. I have a midsize, cfx50w
Great video again. However after 2.5 years full-time nomad in desert to mtns, the lightweight fabric panels do not hold up very well compared to my 3yo GZ Boulder 100 and GZ Boulder 50w (still standing strong). The fabric panels fade, start to become sun damaged, get blown over by the wind easily, pockets get full of dust..etc. Going back to alum framed panels for nomad use.
I agree the typical fabric panels are only good for occasional use in good weather but they do have the benefit of being so much smaller and lighter than glass. I think the perfect blend is the GZ ranger panels that use rugged ETFE panels in a thin aluminum frame so they are sturdy and weatherproof but light. They are just way too expensive . I tried reviewing an alternative brand take on it but their panel materials weren’t good enough for me to post a video. I’ll keep looking though,
Hey Todd thank you so much for this video! Could you please let me know what type of extension cord I would need to be compatible with this and the goal zero 1000? I need 30- 50 ft
Thanks! I bought this one - 50 Foot Lighted Outdoor Extension Cord with 3 Electrical Power Outlets - 10/3 SJTW Yellow 10 Gauge Extension Cable with 3 Prong Grounded Plug for Safety www.amazon.com/dp/B078KBCXKT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_N4gsFbPAQB9TD
Gotta ask the question, Does the TP in TP-solar stand for Todd Parker?
You caught me
Todd, you said you would shorten the eagle legs. How far of an angle do you want to achieve? Its angle out of the box because the leg allows a little flexibility is between 150° and 200 °
I think the panels need to be from 24-72 degrees depending on month where I live. I think the stave is close but needs to angle back just a bit more. www.solarelectricityhandbook.com/solar-angle-calculator.html
@@todd.parker i just cut a few inches back. Drilled a new hole. Set.
A sliding leg would be best. Summer time you probably want 45 deg or less and in the winter more like 60 deg which is close to what the easel is out of the box. If you shorten the leg, you will want a way to raise it in the winter months.
Hi, can you review the Thunderbolt 9w and 18w foldable solar panel? You can get it at Harbor Freight stores.
Hello very nice review! Do you think the 60 Watt panel is useable on a kayak? W.o.w. is it waterproof?
I bet you could bungee it to your kayak. These panels aren’t waterproof but I’m guessing they could get splashed and be ok. The junction box is the spot that is most sensitive to water, the panels top surface can get wet.
THNX 4UR INPUT SHARING!
Hi Todd! About 8 months ago I commented on this video regarding the 120W Top Solar panel. I wound up buying one of the 120W panels, and liked it so much I just recently purchased another so I would have 240W. Now, my question is … What connectors did you use to connect the two panels in parallel, and plug in to your GZY? I have an Anker power station which I’m sure has a similar port to plug in to. I would appreciate your input if you recall your setup. Thanks Brotha! 😎
I used 4x 8mm combiner cables for my Goal Zero Yeti. Alternatively you can use the MC4 connectors and get a combiner cable but I think 8mm is probably easiest
Excellent review! I am looking at the TP-Solar 100 watt version. Do you see any potential long-term issues with the connections between the panel sections along the lines where they fold? Thanks!
So far so good but it’s hard to really see how beefy the connections are. The 100w has many more folds so that increases the risk a bit I suppose but it’s a cool design for laying flat
@@todd.parker Yes I'm interested in the 100w version for it's lighter weight and increased compactness when not in use. Hopefully if used with care it will last a long time.
@@theadventurebiker Yeah, I've been tempted to pick one up because it's tiny. The only downside is since it's so floppy, seems you can't angle them easily to catch the full sun but that's not a huge issue.
Adventure Bike I see the appeal of the foldable 100 being your choice is you are a bike or biker. . The grommets are small but you can use small bungee cords to attach it upon your bike frame.
@@krisg3984 Yes indeed!
Todd ... Great review! Love the content, straight forward and to the point. You always have good ideas no matter what you do. I looked for the TP 120W panels via your link, but it lead me to the TOPSOLAR 120W panels. I’m assuming they are the updated/upgraded version of what you reviewed? Great job Sir! 👍🏼 😎
Hey, thanks. Appreciate it! Yeah, seems they rebranded and word is the new version performs the same but has a nicer design.
@@todd.parker ... They look pretty solid. Think I’ll pull the trigger on these. Thanks again for the review!
Thanks for the informative review :) Great video! Will be purchasing thru your link.
Thanks for video. I'm thinking about getting a GZ Yeti 500x as well as TP panels. The 500x has two 8mm charging ports but apparently con't be used at the same time. Wondering if you would recommend a way (or product) of connecting two 120W TP panels, by way of adapter, in to a single 8mm port in the Yeti.
I’m sure you could find an 8mm y connector to sum these but the max I put is 150w so 2x100w would be more than enough.
Charging port (input, 8mm): 13-22V, up to 10A (150W max)
@@todd.parker I thought 8mm y connector would be easy to find as well, however cant find one anywhere. I think I'll have to go the long way round and connect via MC4 connections.
Thank you. This review was very helpful.
Any chance you have an extra panel you've reviewed that's 100 watt with a mp4 adapter for the 300 watt Golabs. I'll pay you for it. Was looking for a fold up. Just looking for something to continue my experiments with my grandchildren with solar until I can afford the panel I actually really want. If this is inappropriate, I apologize.
So these TP can connect directly to the car battery? ... or is powerport (cig lighter) meant for vech to ... what?
You should always connect a panel to a charge controller to avoid overcharging your battery but they will work for charging a car battery, yes
What would you use a cog lighter adapter for. I thought the power is from the panel not a car
I think it’s to trickle charge your car battery from the solar panel
I just spent a couple days researching and testing my new TP Solar 100W foldable panel. As I rewatched your video, when you were going through the supplied accessories, you said you weren't sure how you would use the USB to 12V connector. I puzzled over it for awhile and my conclusion is that you plug the USB end into one of the the 5/9/12 V ports on the solar panel and use the other end to attach the 4' extension cable to, then attach whatever final attachment is required for the the target (i.e., 12V battery was their recommendation), such as the short attachment with the alligator clip ends. That way the maximum voltage to the 12V battery that is being recharged would be 14V, as noted on the charge specs printed on that strange USB adapter. I don't believe the round connection should go into the 19V port on the solar panel (even though it fits) because it doesn't make sense to find a connector to go from the USB side to a 12V battery. That was a very unusual adapter with little description of how to use it until I connected all the dots! Recap: only the USB output ports on the solar panel should be used to charge any 12V battery. Confirmation of this theory is greatly appreciated.
Interesting theory. So you think you connect the box to to usb output of the panels and that up converts it to 12v? I should try to see if I can combine that with the regular 12v output to charge the yeti a tiny bit faster? How do you like the panels?
@@todd.parker I'm not sure that little USB connector gadget is doing any conversion, but it might be. It says it is 14.4V (if I remember), and plugging it into the 5/9/12 V USB outputs makes sense. Maybe that box in the middle of the adapter is protecting it if it goes over 14.4 volts. A mini regulator? I partially like the panels, but have only explored the hookups for a couple days. I thought my first one was defective (reason to follow) and today tested the replacement. Both started charging my Jackery 500 battery at 62 W, then if the voltage dropped down (clouds, shadow on panel, etc), they wouldn't return to the 62 W input, but stopped at 42 W. To get it to go back up to 62 W, I would unplug then replug in the input to the Jackery and it would go back up to 62 W until another cloud passed by. I decided it was normal. My Jackery recharged from 86% to 100%, even at the lower input voltage, in less than 2 hours. Happy with that. Another unexpected thing I discovered, was if I shadowed one panel (out of the 10 or 12 folds) with my hand, the voltage to my Jackery dropped to zero even with the sun shining brightly on the whole unit. .... It's been a great day of getting to know my system.
Further research about the shadow issue showed me that if the panels are wired in series and the voltage drop depends upon where in the series the shadow occurs. The shadowing I made was the panel just prior to the output connectors. Tomorrow I'll shadow different panels to see what happens.
Very interesting, thanks for sharing!
Description from the Amazon page:
"The kit comes with a 14.5V charge controlling box, it can charge the 12 volt battery for cars boats RVs marine etc directly. Please don't charge the 12V battery by connecting to the DC 19V port with a solar charge controller, it may damaged the circuitry in the junction box."
So, you plug the USB plug to the QC3.0 port on the panel box and the alligator clips to the other end and you can charge (more likely just top-up) your car battery...
Say, I am considering one of these to stay in my balcony most of the year and help with eletric bills and to use for camping during summer. What do you will be the best move, get one of those TP because of the extra portability or the goal zero, which will be harder to carry but far more durable?
Any thoughts on that? Thanks.
If you’re looking to have panels outside most of the year, I’d stick with glass or flexible panels with MC4 connectors. Folding panels aren’t designed to be out in the weather
Todd, there is a new Nomad 200 Watts Goal Zero foldable solar panels. Would love to see a review of yours on those.
$600 tho. I think a 200w foldable panel is probably pretty bulky and floppy so I’d rather have 3x 100’s for the same price from Rockpal or TP-Solar but I’d take a review unit if they gave me one!
Hi Todd great video finally someone explained this information to me, that I can understand how these things work. My questions is, I have the YETI 1250W AGM which I love. Can I use these panels in addition to my 100W Boulder panels? Please info. Thank you!
Yep, these should work fine with your Yeti. Same 8mm connector.
Thank you Sir I will purchase those panels using the links you provided. Also after watching your video on Fast Charging Options I purchase most of the items needed using your link. I went with the ALP 1,000 Watt Propane Generator instead of the RYOBI 900 Watt Propane Generator. Which I believe they are discontinued, once again thank you.
At about the 5:53 mark you mention this is backed by a 15 year warranty, but I can’t find any warranty info on the Amazon listing. Just curious on how you found this out? Someone asked about this in the questions section of the Amazon listing, and the response was 1 year warranty.
Huh, I just checked the listing and you’re right! Maybe I was thrown off by this in the description: “Waterproof and Durable: The solar panel is fully laminated, made by advanced laminated technology and long lasting ETFE material, made for long term use over 15 years.”...seems they don’t cover 14 of those!
Do you know what size the plug is on the primary DC cable? I was thinking of trying to get a cable with MC4 on one end and DC male plug on the other. This would hopefully replace the supplied thin MC4 adapter/cable (as mentioned in your video).
I suspect told; is auto-correct for tldr;...?
Is there a good way to connect this with my renogy mppt controller in my van to charge 2 AGM batteries? I would plan on parking in the shade and running a long cord to this in the sun. Thank you
Seems you could connect these via MC4 cables to bare wire into the controller (or MC4 if it has that)
The TP solar only for sunny day.
However, GZ Boulder more rugged. More weather proof. Hot and Rain day.
THis is my opinion.
I agree. A glass panel is better for a fixed location but for portable panels that you deploy on a sunny day and carry around a folding panel is way better imo.
I'm confused, i'm seeing 120W from the 8mm and 360W from the power-pole port. Where is he getting this 320 Wats max input for charging??
According to Goal Zero, what matters is the total power going into the PWN and MPPT modules regardless of which combination of ports you use in each. Both have a 360w max overall (total of 720w) but you can't exceed the individual port max ratings.
The barrel connector to USB thing is a DC to DC converter to provide a minimum of 14.2v DC from a 12v DC source. I don't know what uses a 14.2V USB port tho.
Are you sure it's not for going from usb port on the panel, it's a male plug... and that would output a regulated 14v to safely charge a 12v batt.
It's used to trickle charge a 12 volts battery. Most people would use the alligator clips to charge the battery but doing so has a risk of overcharging. Trickle charging with the USB adapter allows the circuity to provide either a 3 or 4 stage charging capability to charge a deep cycle battery safely. At least that is how I am understanding the adapter. I may be wrong though.
equallywrong To charge a car battery with the cables and adapters how do you cable it? Is that also what the cigarette lighter is for?
@@pjfoumc My understanding is you CAN use the alligator clips and the cigarette lighter adapter to charge a car battery. For example, the battery's voltage is too low to start the charge (ie dead battery), you can attach the alligator clips to the battery OR plug the cigarette lighter adapter into an "always on" accessory port and allow the controller to pump current into the battery. But, you will have to monitor the battery voltage so it does not become overcharge, which is highly unlikely since the battery is dead and it would take a very long time to completely charge the battery. But, the example applies to any battery, really. If you do not use the USB adapter to trickle charge the battery, you will have to frequently check on the battery to insure it does not become overcharged.
@@autobotfpv2588 Correct!
Would these equipment enough to heat a water tank for a a swimming pool ?
I don't think so, no. Heating water uses a lot of energy but you might want to look at non-electric solar pool heaters.
Great video! What about placing these foldable panels in the front window of my car? Do you think I would still get the same or near to same solar power through the front window? If I parked the car in the direction of the sun, the window would give a nearly natural tilt angle to the sun to optimize the power? What do you think? Or would the panel get too hot?
I think you’d be better off laying these outside on top of the windshield
@@todd.parker thanks but I was thinking about leaving the panel inside the vehicle so they wouldn’t get stolen while I was out on a hike for example.
According to this article “placing the panel behind the windshield will reduce the light received by the panel by 30-40% as a best case” - www.powerfilmsolar.com/education/the-horizon-blog/2019/04/26/will-a-solar-panel-work-behind-glass
@@todd.parker great thanks!!
Another question that I have is about the easel. Looks very cool, but what do you do for leaning a TP 120W panel on it? Seems a bit too big for that easel, no?
Yep, I show in the video how I use a piece of foam in the easel tray to snug the panel in place. Otherwise it sort of buckles.
Very thorough & helpful review...thank you
Glad you enjoyed it!
I was debating on this panel or a Rockpal100watt. Is there much performance difference?
I think performance is about the same. I have a rockpals 50w panel and it is very beefy and well made. This panel is less expensive, lighter weight and may be better in the damp because it’s not fabric
Fine Review, thanks.
Goal Zero still good, but I am happy to know we have new choose.
How has your 120w panel held up? I'm looking at one with similar specs.
Good but I haven't used it a ton. I'll say these are super small but have lower output compared for a the XTAR 100w panel I tested.
@@todd.parker I'm looking for a 200w panel for the EB3A. Ty for the reply.
Is there a 120w panel you would suggest over the TP? I saw you gave this a 5 star and it’s being sold for $207 is that a good price?
I paid $226 so that’s a good price.
Oh and for the money, it’s a good value. The Jackery solar saga also looks good but doesn’t fold up as small, is 100w and $90 more. Jackery SolarSaga 100W Portable Solar Panel for Explorer 160/240/500/1000 Power Station, Foldable US Solar Cell Solar Charger with USB Outputs for Phones (Can't Charge Explorer 440/ PowerPro) www.amazon.com/dp/B07Q71LX84/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_7y4bFbPP4EC7X
Hi Todd, I recently purchased these panels for my GYZ 500x, and I was wondering if you could help with a problem I'm seeing. If I plug the output of the panels directly into the 500x with the 8mm adapter, the 500x fails to charge. I suspect this may be because I'm getting about 25-26V off the panel output and the 500x accepts 22V maximum. If I use the supplied 19V step-down adapter, it successfully charges, but I only get about 45 watts output from the panel. The step-down module is only rated at 3A, which I suspect is maybe the problem, and I was wondering if you encountered this problem.
The barrel connector should be 19v on these panels. I measured a bunch of the folding panels and they are all 19-20v. If it’s 25-26v, that seems much higher than they are supposed to be - more what I see from their glass and flexible panels. I agree with your other conclusions but you should contact TP and ask about the voltage, maybe you got a bad panel?
Hi Chris. I have encountered the same problem. Only getting about 45 watts output when using the 19V step-down adapter. Interestingly I had the 19V step down going for a while and then removed it and tried charging without which did work for about a minute and then failed. When it was working I was getting about 75-80 watts.
Wondering if you have had any luck working out the problem??
Curious which panels you’re using. I have most of the TP panels here, I can do some testing
@@todd.parker I am using the 120 watt panels (same one as your video). They are advertised as 19V but only seem to work when you use the step down adapter. I looked at the yeti 1000 specs as well which have same maximum of 22V as the yeti 500x. Not sure why it doesnt work.
@@willkenneally61 that is super strange. So you’re seeing higher than 19v if you measure that port? I’ve seen one of these panels with a bad 19v port that didn’t have any output but it sounds like your problem is different.
What is the differences between the pwm ant the mppt
MPPT is a more efficient solar charm technology than PWM
200WATTS SOLAR 3 PANELS GOALZERO
great review. thank you!
Glad it was helpful. I was looking for reviews of this panel before I bought it and there wasn’t anything. Making videos of stuff I could t find answers to.
Any plans to review the Boulder 200? I just bought the larger Yeti 3000 for emergency back-up power and am looking into ways I can charge it when the AC goes out. Solar doesn't quite work for me as my porch is covered so any panel would only get "sky" light and not direct sunlight. But linking a few of the Boulder 200's together might that offset the difference? I've figured with the GZ fast charger plugged into a 1000W gas generator I could recharge the Yeti 3000 during the daylight hours when noise isn't a problem and then after the sun goes down run the Yeti alone to keep my fridge and other essentials powered during an outage.
I don’t own the 200 and probably won’t since they are petty bulky and heavy. If the panels don’t have direct sunlight, adding more won’t get you enough power to help. Adding a small generator to change it up is a good idea and you probably can connect 2 fast chargers - one into the PWM and a second the MPPT to charge faster then cruise between charges on battery power. I have some videos of a similar setup. Good luck!
i think the goal zero panels would last a lot longer then the cheaper foldable panels. i think you can throw away the foldable panels after a year or 2 to 5, where the goal zero pannels would be still working after 15 - 20 years...
Yeah, I think that’s the big advantage if glass panels. They last forever
In a mobile setup such as a van, you will be paying for extra gas to move the greater weight of glass panels. I wonder how that affects the cost over that time.
what the purpose of those 60Watt solar panels or even 100W, probably for lights or small fans only, they taken up large space, not that efficient.
They are great for travel and camping. Glass panels are far too heavy to throw in the car
Who is Tp solar can’t find anything about them on the net. I believe there brand changed to top solar still nothing.
They are a typical Chinese manufacturer but i think their panels are designed in Germany.
110% output? am I missing something.
It's been a while since I made this, what is the question?
Todd,
Txs for this review. Nice to see other portable options.
The GZ Plus portable solar panels have the added feature of restarting when a cloud passes overhead. Do these have that same feature?
PS Good job as always with your reviews. 👍
Good Q re: restarting. I’ll say yes because I definitely charged the yeti to 100% on partly cloudy days. Though I didn’t test the USBs for a super long time
goal zero yeti 6000x portable power station coming soon
I wish they went with a stackable system instead of all these large sizes
Great video.
Thanks!
Hello Todd thanks for the video. Do you have a link for the easels you bought on Amazon? Thanks you kindly and thank you for doing all of these test.
Sure! Mont Marte Table Top Easel for... www.amazon.com/dp/B07Q34WQNM?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
@@todd.parker Thanks Todd!
Nice
Flavors🥴
🙂👍👍👍🙂
Thanks for the video, Todd. I have a yeti 1400 and carry around the Boulder 100, primarily to use with our RoadTrek class b. Glad I stumbled on your channel, and might get the 120w for better portability (I think a set of two should work well). BTW there’s a RUclips video that’s seems to use your Amazon review pics and words, so maybe report it? ruclips.net/video/RFuvFG436nE/видео.html Cheers, Jack
Hey thanks! I’ve been enjoying the folding panels quite a bit and in fact just sold one Boulder 100 this weekend because I now have so many folding panels and they are much lighter and smaller. Kept one Boulder as a reference though, they are excellent. Those fake videos keep popping up, thanks for the heads up!
Todd Parker Yeah, I saw more after I found that one, not sure what can be done about it, if anything. At least you know that imitation is the greatest form of flattery. I’ll keep my Boulder 100 as well, hopefully to use on our future tiny home - wanting a combo of tiny house with our class b, a little land for growing stuff and we’ll be happy. Looking forward to more videos.
Todd, just bought 2 120W folding panels w/ amazon’s prime day sale ($197 ea), in addition to some gift card money I had leftover... Can’t wait to try them out on next camping trip! Need to get the mppt module for the yeti 1400 (last one I had failed, returned) but willing to give it another try, hopefully it was just a bad unit. Oh, great camper-suv build! Thought about doing that to our odyssey, but ended up buying the Roadtrek. Thinking of hanging them with S hooks on side of van, or prop them against vehicle since they don’t have built in hinge. Trying to avoid additional costs of easels, but we’ll see. Later!
Somone stole your video. See below
Review TP solar 120 watt foldable kit for portable generator.
Chanel Derrek Vacante.
Yeah, that keeps happening. Gah.
Do not last as long....
That’s the concern, yes. I think glass panels are the gold standard in longevity and weather resistance but if you value size and weight over that, these are a very good option and should work for 15 years+ (warranty)
Goal Zero are over priced junk !
Overpriced, yes. Behind the times, also yes. Junk, no.
Read the reviews. All solar panels underperform. The Nomads significantly underperform. Also, I can buy an equivalent Boulder panel typically for 2/3 to 1/2 the price. I credit you for the marketing hype.