I''m 84 and don't travel much anymore, but.... I love Jackery. I have two 1000 wh power stations, a 160 wh, two Bluetti stations, a 2400 wh and a second newer Bluetti that has a 2000 watt inverter. The reason for such an array of power stations is because I live in a very remote section of the Southern California Mojave Desert where the power has a habit of going off every summer during the hottest periods. The temp. in my area during July and August is normally 110 each day and around 100 plus over night. With my numerous battery powered backups, I'm able to run a small through the wall A/C, and my small freezer and refrigerator during the normal fairly short blackouts. I also have two Jackery 100 watt folding solar panels for solar charging, which so far I've never needed to use. At my age these devices are a real blessing for me. They're safe, mostly noiseless, and even for a technological moron like me, simple to use. As a fall back, I also have a small Honda Inverter Generator for use in charging the power stations if the power ever goes off for many days.
......have you considered getting one generator that runs off NG or propane to fulfill all your needs and compliment it with a battery/solar setup? Most of these units are overpriced and portability is there only plus. Drop all your coin on a stationary system that functions on its own when needed.
I watched a guy be able to run/start his air conditioner on his Airstream with a soft start system and a small inverter,and of course he has 3 or 4?solar panels! He has I believe 4 lithium batteries that can run his 15,000 btu air for over 3 hours if needed will out his generator!
@Living Free , Man & His Dog Hello, please do explain how is the right set up. I recently purchased a 1000 with a two 100w panels but I need either one more battery to use with same solar panels, a bigger battery or just a whole set. I am new to this kind of systems. I have never use one but have a family of 6 want to get what I need while it’s available.
You put this out 2 years ago and it’s still helping people today. Thanks! This was the best video out of the innumerable other videos I’ve watched trying to get my brain around what I needed power wise for a few month road-trip in my Prius. I feel releaved that I can get my mind out of this rabbit hole and get some sleep now 😂
I have the Jackery 1000 for my van. I have used it to jump my other vehicle 2 times this winter, when I left items on that drained the car battery. It worked great!
Great video as usual brother! I just want to say that couple weeks ago here in Texas, we were hit with a crazy snow Storm and had no power for a week. The Jackery 500 kept our electronics charged and we were able to use the power from the Jackery 500 to cook when we ran out of propane and charcoal burkettes on our grills. Also because of y'all's videos and y'all's use of the Jackery 500 , I found about Jackery. We were able to recharge the Jackery 500 while we were keeping warm in the car , like many Texan's were. Just wanna thank y'all for reviews and use of product's that work and in many cases can save ppls lives. I'm grateful to Jackery 500 for an amazing product and that I was able to take care of my family. 👍👍👍 Sorry for the long post😁
That's awesome to hear! I mean, not the weeklong power outage or that crazy storm, but that the Jackery ended up being a usable solution for that scenario.
May I ask what device/model item you used to cook food with that your Jackery 500 powered? Interested in finding a low watt cooking option, and having a hard time finding one.
Quick question, what electric pan did you use to cook? I'm in Florida and have a Jackery 500 for hurricane prep but don't know what to buy. Thanks for your help.
@@klw1463 It's two years later and we have two 500s coming (you can't hook the two together for power). I looked at various hotplates 500 (peeks to 1000), 1000 (out of the question - too many watts) so neither will work. I just looked at our tea kettle (electric) and the 500 is just too small. Video was great. It will recharge our cellphones and laptops. I think I'll be able to hook up a lamp with it. I purchased them because we have a friend who loves them and I looked at other generators and opted for jackery due to support reviews. With their recent sale, it made sense to go bigger than a 200.
We have a Jackery 500 with solar panel. We have found without trying to recharge the Jackery it will keep our 12v fridge going a full 5.5 days. With the sun in our neck of the woods in the summer it will never run dry. Takes about 6-8 hours depending on sun and cloud to fully recharge ( never allowing the Jackery to go below 20%). We have used our Jackery 500 to charge our phones, tablets, speaker system and our fridge, all while boondocking down the logging roads of Vancouver island. I have been very very happy with this product. My only complaint is the Jackery solar panels themselves are VERY VERY fragile on their flat sides. I have to make sure anyone who attempts to pick them up takes great care to no apply any pressure whatsoever on the panels flat side. With that I would still recommend the product to anyone.
We have used the ruclips.net/user/postUgkxOTeIs0vv4_9B5hsmnLsk9r930uDQLu_Y for probably 30 hours with our camper and it’s been great! The noise level is really only noticeable when running the AC and other appliances like the microwave, hair dryer, or coffee pot. It’s not huge like other ones and it has wheels so even at 90lbs, I can move it!
Thanks, Donald! I’ve been holding off getting the 1000 because of the cost. Seems to me that the 500 would be the best option for me after seeing your usage. 👍🏻
Great review…I just received my Jackery 500, two week ago. Going camping with it next week. Used it on a motel trip with my daughter and we Plugged in all our devices for recharge overnight. In three days it only reduced the power level to 91%. Was not recharged for those 3 days.
I do own the small 240Wh box + 100 W peak solar folding panel. I had it with me on camping trips, providing the little bit of power needed. But it truely held its own in recent repair works on my Subaru SG when it flawlessly provided stable electricity for my low-Watt-intake power tools to grind and clean up rust. That's the most significant feature of the Jackery boxes: stable sine output of AC power.
I've been using a 500W Jackery for busking with a Hammond Organ since the pandemic hit since all the clubs are closed. The Biggest issue I have but when you're using a solar panel to slow down the drain is that you get a false reading on the Display. Is shows a fluctuation between 99 and 100% when the power is actually much lower like around 50 or 60%. I had a couple of embarrassments with this until I figured out you need to reset the display to get a true reading of how much power you have.
Thanks for the review. I'm just starting to shop for a portable solar generator and you answered a lot of my questions! Very helpful for somebody considering life "off grid"
Thank you sir, love gear reports after extended usage. Great info. For anyone else interested, Steve Wallis here on YT uses a Jackery as well, even powering a crock pot with it.
Thanks for another great vid Donald. Great explanation on your setup. For storage I nave an idea for you. I have a pickup which as you know are square-ish and boxy. They lend themselves well to using milk crates for storage. They are in expensive, indestructible, and stack nicely. I think that jackery 500 will fit into a 16 quart milk crate which can be had at home depot for $9. Stack another on top for more storage and have the heavy jackery in the bottom crate.
I had a dual battery setup in my truck, but when I switched to a 4runner I got a Jackery instead. I agree the flexibility of it makes the dual battery system unnecessary (not to mention more expensive and difficult to install). We lost power during one of the winter storms here in Oregon and used the Jackery to run a few devices in the house - couldn't do that with a dual battery system. Finally, when I sold the truck I removed the dual battery system - I don't want to be responsible for any misuse by the next owner. Not an easy system to install or remove. The Jackery just pick it up and put it in the new rig. Good review -- I tuned in for one you did a while back before buying my Jackery and glad I did.
You've provided valuable feedback, Don, to those of us who own Jackery models. I've been satisfied with my Jackery 240 but would like to get the 500 model since adding a couple of gear items to my overland kit, specifically a DeWalt chain saw, battery charger unit and some new exterior lights for my awning. Thank you, Don!
I just picked up a 300 a few weeks ago for my adventures. I absolutely love it so far and see myself upgrading to a larger one day. Mine doesn't appear to shut off over time, or maybe I just have not noticed. You make great enjoyable videos! keep up the good work!
I'm pretty sure the newer Jackery units don't have this issue. My 500 is an older design. The 300 appears to be a fabulous little device. My friend Jason (Primal Outdoors) uses his 300 probably more than any of his other Jackery units.
@@softroadingthewest What newer version are you talking about? The 1000 or do they make newer version of the 500? The shut-off overtime will definitely be a factor to think about when buying.
I meant newer models like the 300 or the 1000. Those units came out after the 500. I presume the 500 for sale now is the same as my 500. The shut down is not a huge issue as long as you're aware of it. It only happens on freezing cold nights, which means the food in the fridge is staying cold enough anyway. I just need to make sure it's actually running before I start driving and have the heat going in the car. Any night that's anywhere near warm enough to endanger the food, the fridge ends up cycling on at least few times and keeps the Jackery awake through the night. What I've started doing lately on freezing cold nights is just move the Jackery from the car to my tent at bedtime, because I know food will stay safely cold even if the fridge is unplugged, and then while I sleep I can be actively charging my phone, ipad, etc, which die much faster on those cold nights. In the morning, the Jackery goes back into the car, gets turned on, and stays awake all day with the fridge plugged in.
I bought mine last summer based on Donald's endorsement and it is a critical part of my camping gear and also I used it a lot at home. I paid full price for it. One note. If you use a 12volt usb adapter you get get some more USB outlets
Bought a 500 for our van camping, the Bluetti Ac50S is what I’m getting after my research. This system no matter the brand seems like a perfect solution for our traveling!
Great content, this has changed my mind on these devises. I have a single battery 1000 amp, 4 usb and 3 12V outlets in my truck plus a 500 watt inverter. So far I have enough power but I don't have near the items you have to keep charged.
I tested my new Jackery 500 recently to see how long it would power my Dometic CFX3-35. As you said, it's cold outside. I had my setup in the garage. It went for four days, often with the refrigerator temps below what I had set. That's not a realistic test of endurance since the cold garage was helping the fridge. BUT my Jackery did not shut down due to low output. So, that's promising. I will be taking my Jackery and CFX3-35 on a three-week, 6500-mile road trip soon. The fridge will not see household power the entire time. I will charge the Jackery from the car while I drive. I have no concerns about the Jackery lasting on this trip, even if the car is parked for a weekend. I may even use the Jackery to charge my trailer's 32-Ah battery since I don't have solar and the trailer's wiring harness drops too much voltage to charge from the car. Nice work on your review!
I wonder if this has been addressed in newer units. I was totally puzzled a couple of mornings during my November overland trek with primal_outdoors when I found the Jackery was off and the fridge was getting no power, but Jason was the one to point out that it was because the fridge simply wasn't drawing power frequently enough during those cold nights. Not too big a deal, I finally learned to just check it first thing each morning, and in those conditions it's not like the food is going to go bad if the fridge is off for a few hours before sunrise. I just have to remember to check it. :-)
I bought my van yesterday! I'm so excited! Thank you so much for this detailed honest review. The 500 is what I wanted and this sealed the deal for me. Can't wait to start my nomad adventures!!
this is the first video i have watched that somebody mentioned the problem with the fridge not drawing power and the jackery shutting off. thanks for mentioning that.
Thank you for your honest review. As always, you share the information that we need while keeping it interesting and entertaining! That ending rocked! I’m sorry I’ve headed down the dual battery trail. I wonder if it’s too late to send my stuff back.
Well, dual-battery is still a completely legit approach. There are definite advantages. As much as Jason loves his Jackery units, he still has found dual-battery to be essential for what he does.
Thanks for putting this review out. Truly was helpful. I'm getting ready to begin a vehicle build of some sort and power is one of my "needs" and your review was very helpful. Thanks again. Answered lots of questions.
Funny that you mention the "2 battery" idea, I use my Jackery 500 primarily to recharge my single Group 27 house battery through a connector with male cigarette plugs on each end that I use to trickle charge my house battery from my Jackery while the trailer is on a storage lot without 120v access. It's a Casita, battery access is a pain, trust me. I also have taken it with me while camping in a COE park where a storm knocked out 120v hookups. I dug out the 12v TV cables, plugged in the Jackery as usual to keep the volt/amps up for the reefer, TV and to augment the house battery and all was golden. I didn't have to run the heater (gotta down bag to throw on the bed) even though it was October, I was happy even as everyone else packed up and left. Can't knock it if it works. Be safe!
You can buy a usb hub that can power up to six off of one. Or get a 12 volt plug that can charge 2 more devices. Cheap. Thanks for the review. I have the 240 w/ 60 watt panels. Works for me.
Then you're splitting the meager amp output of one USB slot amongst several devices trying to be charged. Not ideal. Also if your fridge is constantly plugged into the 12v cigarette lighter output that's never available for a cigarette lighter USB charger. Jackery should just put 6 dedicated USB slots... For $500 they can include that. This is the age of USB powered devices after all
@@JohnJohnCrusher You might have to correct me if I'm wrong, but those splitters will have the required voltage built in to supply the same power through out.
This is a very honest appraisal of the Jackery500 and power stations in general. My biggest gripe with the Jackery is the DC Output jack size which are not used by anyone else and almost impossible to find and NONE that will match the 7A DC output of the Jackery. I wish these manufactures would use a common high-capacity connector such as the Anderson or XT60 instead and let the cigarette lighter adapter slip into history. Total replacement second battery in vehicle and with a jump brick this pretty much guarantees you won't be left stranded. Not mentioned but I use this when working on household electrical to provide work lighting while the power is off. Lots of potential applications.
This review was perfect! I appreciate your honesty and believe that you gave an honest and thorough review. I got information I didn’t think of and will help me in my travels. You’re really easy to listen to and I’m excited to find the model that fits my family as we adventure around. If there is a coupon code or way that I can pass the credit onto you when I purchase I’ll be happy to return the favor. Thanks again for sharing. ~Sheeara, Alaska
Nice! Thanks for the update. Hard to believe it has been a year already! Might try and find split USB cables for doubling your charging capability. George.
I've been looking at Jackerys for awhile now, and curse myself for not getting one every time the power goes out. I think the 500 is probably the best size for me and if I need more USB ports, I'll just plug my USB splitter in. It turns one into 5. Jon in rural BC, Canada
I love this! I work in film and TV and am building out a van to live in and travel. I have never owned a Jackery but I have used them before and they are amazing!
Thanks! I've been very happy with my Jackery units. I know that a lot of people doing the live/travel in a van thing end up preferring more of a hard-wired dual battery system, and I can see how that makes sense too for someone living out of their van. I definitely love the ease of using my Jackeries though. Good luck with the van, have fun & stay safe! :-)
@2:40 ....finally, someone answers a fundamentally simple question for me that's been missing on the internet.....charging from car/truck to Jackery to 12v coolers.........thanks, appreciate it.
Have you tried using a small USB hub for your low powered USB stuff? Assuming you don't pull more than the rated port in total, you could use the hub to charge small lights, hand warmer, etc.
@@softroadingthewest When I still had a Pontiac Vibe -- with an AC port on the dash from the factory! -- I would just plug in an AC four-port hub to the car so I could charge up my phones, tablet, and GoPro all at once going down the road. It's *super* nice. If you can afford to spare the AC port, there are even larger hubs -- I keep a 10 port hub attached to the backside of my nightstand at home that has chargers for everything I own.
wonder if a cigarette plug splitter (two instead of one) could run my fridge in one port & diesel heater in the other. It may go over the 10 amp limit if the fridge compressor is cycling while heater is heating up
So maybe a dumb question, but can the solar panels handle rain? I live in the Pacific Northwest, and there’s hardly any sun. In the event of an emergency and it needs to charge from outside, can it handle some wetness? Thanks kindly
I have been thinking of one of these and you gave excellent information. I do wish that they made it with a fold down handle or strap to be able to store it better, I hope that Jackery will make this change and a few of the others you mentioned like the shutdown issue.
@@treasuretim3 it depends on how many watts it uses. Sometimes it says so on their label. Try using it once. The Jack will tell you how much you are draining the battery...
Thanks for the update. I looked at the Jackery 500, but ended up getting a Bluetti AC50 and its 120w solar panel. I needed a battery for my cpap out in the woods, and that's what I ended up with. You can do a lot with these little battery packs!
@@softroadingthewest i didn't know these things even existed until I saw you and Primal using them on your channels. Started looking around and found HOBOTEC's channel to get even more scoop on them. I'm sitting up in the woods in my hot tent right now enjoying led lights and a 9vdc fan running on the battery.
I have a Prius. I can leave that running even if I'm parked in one spot a few days. I just bought this Jackery and the solar panels. I wish it had two outlets, rather than one, but everything else works well.
Man, you are costing me money! Finally decided to bite the bullet and buy one of these along with a similar fridge to what you have, after seeing this video.
I know this is an old video, but a 12v 2-way adapter with a car 12v USB socket with 4 ports works well for me gives 7 USB ports and still manages a fridge or pump on the other 12v socket.
You go Lucy keep did in line, hope all of you are healing and getting better. Keep up the information videos everyone has there own experience and thoughts on camping gear and how to survive. Thanks 😊
Jackery claims 500 cycles. That is, drained, then charged, then drained, then charged. But it appears most people don't quite use it that way. How does the constant usage and charging effect the recharge cycles? Can it even be described as cycles, since it's constantly being used and charged at the same time?
Haha, I'm a total total hack. I hoped it was obvious, but that's not me playing. :-) I can play a bit of guitar, but not like that. Put me behind a drum kit however and I can generally hold my own. :-)
I have been considering purchasing 1 of these jackrie units Ever since the ice storm up here in Portland we lost power And had to stay in a hotel. I think 1 of these and a small generator and maybe we could have stayed in our house and toughed it out.
Great video, thank you! Exactly what I need for overlanding and way easier than a dual battery setup. And right, there are many more electric devices than you may think of. So the 100 solar panel looks to be the perfect fit.
My concern is the 500 cycle spec that drops you to 80% capacity. I'd like for something like this to have a ten year life span. A competitor advertises 1000 cycles, but I'm sceptical of their claim, the competitor probably uses the same battery and has optimistic marketing. Impressed and enjoyed your review. I put together a DIY AGM battery backup system for $500 that I estimate at 600 watt-hours. The battery alone weighs 75 lbs. Definitely not something I can easily lug along camping like I could a Jackery or a EcoFlow. So that's why I'm researching these lithium portables.
That is 500 full cycles, if only go down to 50%, then back to 100% - that is only half a cycle. Yes, 13lbs is much more portable and convenient than 75 lbs. There is an 80 discount code - so can pick up for 419 right now.
Checkout the battery chemistry. Hackett has stuck with older cell chemistry while other manufacturers have switched to newer chemistry that gives double the full cycle life. Check Will Prowess channel as he does a lot more detailed reviews …
I just got my Jackery 500 yesterday. I've been using my 240 for my laptop and phone when the power goes out which it tends to do in the winter here in Nova Scotia. I got the 500 charged up. I also got the 100 wt solar panel. I live in a small A Frame cottage and I have a lot of portable things here due to the size of this place. Portable a/c units, the ones with the hose that attach to a slider in a window. I have a portable washing machine and portable dryer. I have no idea if this 500 will power either of those but I will see. I'll try for the washer when the power to the cottage is on just incase it doesn't do the trick for as long as I need. I won't bother with the dryer. I know that will take too much power. But I do have a mini fridge and a small portable heater that I think it can handle. Will see. Loving this product.
I love mine. Ran two 12v refrigerators from my SUV (one with AC one with DC) while staying in a hotel. Dead in the morning but did the job through the night and just recharged while I drove to my final destination.
Just bought the Explorer 500. Hope I never really need it, but you never know. I also have four 80 watt solar panels on my roof, but the batteries they were charging have long since passed away. LOL Looking to charge the Jackery with Solar. Thanks for the review, you have justified my decision!
This and a few other videos has sold me on this thing. I do go camping on occasion, however the main use for this will be at home. I live in a rural area and we seem to lose power with every storm. With storms getting worse we've lost power for multiple days more than once. So having the Jackery with the solar panel seems like it'd be a great stop-gap for charging devices when we lose power. I'd even get to keep internet so long as we have signal as I use a mobile 5G router with its own battery.
8:18 the handle making it difficult to stack and pack is why I’ve backed out of purchasing one a number of times. It’d be nice if they had a heavy duty flip up handle of some sort, seems like a no brainer! Thanks for the review.
Yep! Another commenter suggested tucking it into a milk crate turned on its side, to create a stackable surface above. I might give that a shot. The flat top of some competing units however is definitely a mark in their favor.
You have the same 12v fridge as me. I made the mistake of purchasing a bldr 330 thinking it could keep up. It would have… if the 12v output was regulated. Just ordered a jackery 500. 2.5 days with no recharge is more than enough. Easily 3-4 with solar/minimal driving. Even more if it’s sunny. Great review.
Do they make a Jackery or similar that has a handle that moves so the top is flat and you can stack on top of it? Think like a small cooler. The handle rotates so you can put things on top no problem.
Some competitors make units that have flat-folding handles. Seems like all the Jackery units I've seen have integrated handles that do not fold down. Another commenter suggested fitting it into a milk crate on its side, to create a stackable area above. I might give that a shot.
I’ve read that the Japanese market Jackery has a flat folding handle like the Goal Zero. There is another brand on Amazon with the unit and solar panels identical except baby blue where the orange is. Makes me wonder if jackery released it as a test market item.
Ordered a 500 off amazon...suppose to get it another 12th...I'm really excited... One thing didn't expect from Jackery though was I've contacted them about issues 3 times and they just keep sending me automated mail..didn't expect this from a 'quality' company and so popular too.. I've never had my issues addressed to this moment. That's the only gripe I have.
So they gave you a well tested one that will always work well....if we order one from Amazon, we will get more of a crap shoot, as to getting one with no issues.
Very helpful video! One hesitation on the Jackery500 is that it only has ONE household plug...which would be a pain for a family with 2 laptops. Can a multiple-plug power strip be plugged into the sole Jackery input, to recharge multiple household electronic devices? And is it a 'pure sine wave' that I've been reading is best for electronics? Thank you from Tampa Bay, Florida.
I have a three-plug strip plugged into mine because three of my battery chargers are AC only. I think as long as it's within the Jackery's power output specs, it should make no difference. A quick Google search indicates that laptops typically draw around 50 watts. Powering two of them should be no issue. And yes, pure sine wave output.
TY for taking the time to do such a thorough review. 🙂I am a prep-per and survivalist, and have wasted too much money on different ways to sustain enough power for the things I needed out there on the road. $35 here, $60 there, and sometimes $150 over there add up, but sadly do not amount to an item like this. (Not to mention All the little gadgets to find and store, and All Their cords and adapters, etc. **shakes bad road trip memories away** lol) I may have to pay over time, but I think most people would be silly not to at least be researching these items. Prep-per or not. Now I Have to go see what your road trips were like lol 😄🚙
The issue you have with that handle is also mine. I do have a campervan so space isn’t so much of an issue there but I’m also thinking of turning my vehicle into a micro camper because a few times I’ve really needed have use of sleeping facilities when I was driving my car. I might go for something like the Poweroak or Allpowers instead because the handles fold out flat making it more compact and easier to fit in those small nooks and cranny’s! Thanks for your video. Nat
@8:51 is pretty important for the future trips - on our first and only trip with one, we didn't try it with a fridge, and never paid attention to whether the USB section shut off after all the devices (iPhone, AppleWatch, small battery pack) were fully charged and not drawing much power. My daughter plans to get a fridge so I'll have to share this with her.
LOL...it was definitely a fail on my part that I forgot to mention the "flashlight." :-) Some kind of more diffuse ambient light panel across the top could actually be useful though to simply light up the space you're in. I wish I had thought to address that.
*Jackery Explorer 500:* amzn.to/4clO7wm
I''m 84 and don't travel much anymore, but.... I love Jackery. I have two 1000 wh power stations, a 160 wh, two Bluetti stations, a 2400 wh and a second newer Bluetti that has a 2000 watt inverter. The reason for such an array of power stations is because I live in a very remote section of the Southern California Mojave Desert where the power has a habit of going off every summer during the hottest periods. The temp. in my area during July and August is normally 110 each day and around 100 plus over night. With my numerous battery powered backups, I'm able to run a small through the wall A/C, and my small freezer and refrigerator during the normal fairly short blackouts. I also have two Jackery 100 watt folding solar panels for solar charging, which so far I've never needed to use. At my age these devices are a real blessing for me. They're safe, mostly noiseless, and even for a technological moron like me, simple to use. As a fall back, I also have a small Honda Inverter Generator for use in charging the power stations if the power ever goes off for many days.
......have you considered getting one generator that runs off NG or propane to fulfill all your needs and compliment it with a battery/solar setup? Most of these units are overpriced and portability is there only plus. Drop all your coin on a stationary system that functions on its own when needed.
I'm only just starting to try and follow all this expertise and brilliance. Amazing! Such independence and freedom!
I watched a guy be able to run/start his air conditioner on his Airstream with a soft start system and a small inverter,and of course he has 3 or 4?solar panels! He has I believe 4 lithium batteries that can run his 15,000 btu air for over 3 hours if needed will out his generator!
@Living Free , Man & His Dog Hello, please do explain how is the right set up. I recently purchased a 1000 with a two 100w panels but I need either one more battery to use with same solar panels, a bigger battery or just a whole set. I am new to this kind of systems.
I have never use one but have a family of 6 want to get what I need while it’s available.
Can you sold to me sir
My great-great grandfather was arrested for Public Jackery back in 1883.
Hence the name, Jack.
You put this out 2 years ago and it’s still helping people today. Thanks! This was the best video out of the innumerable other videos I’ve watched trying to get my brain around what I needed power wise for a few month road-trip in my Prius. I feel releaved that I can get my mind out of this rabbit hole and get some sleep now 😂
I have the Jackery 1000 for my van. I have used it to jump my other vehicle 2 times this winter, when I left items on that drained the car battery. It worked great!
So glad you're still making content for us in your down time. Much appreciated.
Agreed!
Great video as usual brother! I just want to say that couple weeks ago here in Texas, we were hit with a crazy snow Storm and had no power for a week. The Jackery 500 kept our electronics charged and we were able to use the power from the Jackery 500 to cook when we ran out of propane and charcoal burkettes on our grills. Also because of y'all's videos and y'all's use of the Jackery 500 , I found about Jackery. We were able to recharge the Jackery 500 while we were keeping warm in the car , like many Texan's were. Just wanna thank y'all for reviews and use of product's that work and in many cases can save ppls lives. I'm grateful to Jackery 500 for an amazing product and that I was able to take care of my family. 👍👍👍 Sorry for the long post😁
That's awesome to hear! I mean, not the weeklong power outage or that crazy storm, but that the Jackery ended up being a usable solution for that scenario.
@@softroadingthewest Thanks. Yea the Jackery 500 was awesome 👍
May I ask what device/model item you used to cook food with that your Jackery 500 powered? Interested in finding a low watt cooking option, and having a hard time finding one.
Quick question, what electric pan did you use to cook? I'm in Florida and have a Jackery 500 for hurricane prep but don't know what to buy. Thanks for your help.
@@klw1463 It's two years later and we have two 500s coming (you can't hook the two together for power). I looked at various hotplates 500 (peeks to 1000), 1000 (out of the question - too many watts) so neither will work. I just looked at our tea kettle (electric) and the 500 is just too small.
Video was great.
It will recharge our cellphones and laptops. I think I'll be able to hook up a lamp with it. I purchased them because we have a friend who loves them and I looked at other generators and opted for jackery due to support reviews. With their recent sale, it made sense to go bigger than a 200.
We have a Jackery 500 with solar panel. We have found without trying to recharge the Jackery it will keep our 12v fridge going a full 5.5 days. With the sun in our neck of the woods in the summer it will never run dry. Takes about 6-8 hours depending on sun and cloud to fully recharge ( never allowing the Jackery to go below 20%). We have used our Jackery 500 to charge our phones, tablets, speaker system and our fridge, all while boondocking down the logging roads of Vancouver island. I have been very very happy with this product. My only complaint is the Jackery solar panels themselves are VERY VERY fragile on their flat sides. I have to make sure anyone who attempts to pick them up takes great care to no apply any pressure whatsoever on the panels flat side. With that I would still recommend the product to anyone.
Can’t wait to see the 200 watt solar panel! Great review and wish you all the best!
We have used the ruclips.net/user/postUgkxOTeIs0vv4_9B5hsmnLsk9r930uDQLu_Y for probably 30 hours with our camper and it’s been great! The noise level is really only noticeable when running the AC and other appliances like the microwave, hair dryer, or coffee pot. It’s not huge like other ones and it has wheels so even at 90lbs, I can move it!
Thanks, Donald! I’ve been holding off getting the 1000 because of the cost. Seems to me that the 500 would be the best option for me after seeing your usage. 👍🏻
I have two 240’s…..great for me. I just ordered solar panel for them. Best thing EVER.
If your in the UK Buy them on Facebook marketplace as they are over half the retail price
@@sshaw4429 good for you, bot.
Great review…I just received my Jackery 500, two week ago. Going camping with it next week. Used it on a motel trip with my daughter and we Plugged in all our devices for recharge overnight. In three days it only reduced the power level to 91%. Was not recharged for those 3 days.
I do own the small 240Wh box + 100 W peak solar folding panel. I had it with me on camping trips, providing the little bit of power needed. But it truely held its own in recent repair works on my Subaru SG when it flawlessly provided stable electricity for my low-Watt-intake power tools to grind and clean up rust. That's the most significant feature of the Jackery boxes: stable sine output of AC power.
I've been using a 500W Jackery for busking with a Hammond Organ since the pandemic hit since all the clubs are closed.
The Biggest issue I have but when you're using a solar panel to slow down the drain is that you get a false reading on the Display. Is shows a fluctuation between 99 and 100% when the power is actually much lower like around 50 or 60%. I had a couple of embarrassments with this until I figured out you need to reset the display to get a true reading of how much power you have.
Thanks for the review. I'm just starting to shop for a portable solar generator and you answered a lot of my questions! Very helpful for somebody considering life "off grid"
Thank you sir, love gear reports after extended usage. Great info.
For anyone else interested, Steve Wallis here on YT uses a Jackery as well, even powering a crock pot with it.
Thanks for another great vid Donald. Great explanation on your setup.
For storage I nave an idea for you. I have a pickup which as you know are square-ish and boxy. They lend themselves well to using milk crates for storage. They are in expensive, indestructible, and stack nicely. I think that jackery 500 will fit into a 16 quart milk crate which can be had at home depot for $9. Stack another on top for more storage and have the heavy jackery in the bottom crate.
I had a dual battery setup in my truck, but when I switched to a 4runner I got a Jackery instead. I agree the flexibility of it makes the dual battery system unnecessary (not to mention more expensive and difficult to install). We lost power during one of the winter storms here in Oregon and used the Jackery to run a few devices in the house - couldn't do that with a dual battery system. Finally, when I sold the truck I removed the dual battery system - I don't want to be responsible for any misuse by the next owner. Not an easy system to install or remove. The Jackery just pick it up and put it in the new rig. Good review -- I tuned in for one you did a while back before buying my Jackery and glad I did.
You've provided valuable feedback, Don, to those of us who own Jackery models. I've been satisfied with my Jackery 240 but would like to get the 500 model since adding a couple of gear items to my overland kit, specifically a DeWalt chain saw, battery charger unit and some new exterior lights for my awning. Thank you, Don!
I don't believe the 500 will run a chainsaw. Be sure to check the wattage.
Idiotic
You gonna power your seaplane as well?
I just picked up a 300 a few weeks ago for my adventures. I absolutely love it so far and see myself upgrading to a larger one day. Mine doesn't appear to shut off over time, or maybe I just have not noticed. You make great enjoyable videos! keep up the good work!
I'm pretty sure the newer Jackery units don't have this issue. My 500 is an older design. The 300 appears to be a fabulous little device. My friend Jason (Primal Outdoors) uses his 300 probably more than any of his other Jackery units.
@@softroadingthewest Good to know! I also watch Jason and I'm sure he puts it to the test. Good to hear they hold up!
@@softroadingthewest What newer version are you talking about? The 1000 or do they make newer version of the 500? The shut-off overtime will definitely be a factor to think about when buying.
I meant newer models like the 300 or the 1000. Those units came out after the 500. I presume the 500 for sale now is the same as my 500.
The shut down is not a huge issue as long as you're aware of it. It only happens on freezing cold nights, which means the food in the fridge is staying cold enough anyway. I just need to make sure it's actually running before I start driving and have the heat going in the car. Any night that's anywhere near warm enough to endanger the food, the fridge ends up cycling on at least few times and keeps the Jackery awake through the night.
What I've started doing lately on freezing cold nights is just move the Jackery from the car to my tent at bedtime, because I know food will stay safely cold even if the fridge is unplugged, and then while I sleep I can be actively charging my phone, ipad, etc, which die much faster on those cold nights. In the morning, the Jackery goes back into the car, gets turned on, and stays awake all day with the fridge plugged in.
@@softroadingthewest Gotcha. Make sense now.
Great gear report. I love how Jackery keeps making small improvements to its units (mppt/usb-c).
I bought mine last summer based on Donald's endorsement and it is a critical part of my camping gear and also I used it a lot at home. I paid full price for it. One note. If you use a 12volt usb adapter you get get some more USB outlets
Thank you I appreciate the update
Bought a 500 for our van camping, the Bluetti Ac50S is what I’m getting after my research. This system no matter the brand seems like a perfect solution for our traveling!
Great content, this has changed my mind on these devises. I have a single battery 1000 amp, 4 usb and 3 12V outlets in my truck plus a 500 watt inverter. So far I have enough power but I don't have near the items you have to keep charged.
1000 amp battery??
Great video, sounds like that's all I need,thank you for this
I tested my new Jackery 500 recently to see how long it would power my Dometic CFX3-35. As you said, it's cold outside. I had my setup in the garage. It went for four days, often with the refrigerator temps below what I had set. That's not a realistic test of endurance since the cold garage was helping the fridge. BUT my Jackery did not shut down due to low output. So, that's promising. I will be taking my Jackery and CFX3-35 on a three-week, 6500-mile road trip soon. The fridge will not see household power the entire time. I will charge the Jackery from the car while I drive. I have no concerns about the Jackery lasting on this trip, even if the car is parked for a weekend. I may even use the Jackery to charge my trailer's 32-Ah battery since I don't have solar and the trailer's wiring harness drops too much voltage to charge from the car. Nice work on your review!
I wonder if this has been addressed in newer units. I was totally puzzled a couple of mornings during my November overland trek with primal_outdoors when I found the Jackery was off and the fridge was getting no power, but Jason was the one to point out that it was because the fridge simply wasn't drawing power frequently enough during those cold nights. Not too big a deal, I finally learned to just check it first thing each morning, and in those conditions it's not like the food is going to go bad if the fridge is off for a few hours before sunrise. I just have to remember to check it. :-)
I bought my van yesterday! I'm so excited! Thank you so much for this detailed honest review. The 500 is what I wanted and this sealed the deal for me. Can't wait to start my nomad adventures!!
Congrats, have fun out there!
this is the first video i have watched that somebody mentioned the problem with the fridge not drawing power and the jackery shutting off. thanks for mentioning that.
thanks for the review , will be using a 1000 to completely power my camper van & camping life
Thank you for your honest review. As always, you share the information that we need while keeping it interesting and entertaining! That ending rocked! I’m sorry I’ve headed down the dual battery trail. I wonder if it’s too late to send my stuff back.
Well, dual-battery is still a completely legit approach. There are definite advantages. As much as Jason loves his Jackery units, he still has found dual-battery to be essential for what he does.
Thanks for putting this review out. Truly was helpful. I'm getting ready to begin a vehicle build of some sort and power is one of my "needs" and your review was very helpful. Thanks again. Answered lots of questions.
Funny that you mention the "2 battery" idea, I use my Jackery 500 primarily to recharge my single Group 27 house battery through a connector with male cigarette plugs on each end that I use to trickle charge my house battery from my Jackery while the trailer is on a storage lot without 120v access. It's a Casita, battery access is a pain, trust me. I also have taken it with me while camping in a COE park where a storm knocked out 120v hookups. I dug out the 12v TV cables, plugged in the Jackery as usual to keep the volt/amps up for the reefer, TV and to augment the house battery and all was golden. I didn't have to run the heater (gotta down bag to throw on the bed) even though it was October, I was happy even as everyone else packed up and left. Can't knock it if it works. Be safe!
Thanks for the updated review. I have the 300 and love it.
That shot of you running in slow mo, in the snow, was epic
You can buy a usb hub that can power up to six off of one. Or get a 12 volt plug that can charge 2 more devices. Cheap. Thanks for the review. I have the 240 w/ 60 watt panels. Works for me.
I don't know why I never thought of this. I'm constantly juggling USB ports. Somehow a splitter or hub of some sort never crossed my mind. :-)
Then you're splitting the meager amp output of one USB slot amongst several devices trying to be charged. Not ideal. Also if your fridge is constantly plugged into the 12v cigarette lighter output that's never available for a cigarette lighter USB charger. Jackery should just put 6 dedicated USB slots... For $500 they can include that. This is the age of USB powered devices after all
@@JohnJohnCrusher You might have to correct me if I'm wrong, but those splitters will have the required voltage built in to supply the same power through out.
This is a very honest appraisal of the Jackery500 and power stations in general. My biggest gripe with the Jackery is the DC Output jack size which are not used by anyone else and almost impossible to find and NONE that will match the 7A DC output of the Jackery. I wish these manufactures would use a common high-capacity connector such as the Anderson or XT60 instead and let the cigarette lighter adapter slip into history.
Total replacement second battery in vehicle and with a jump brick this pretty much guarantees you won't be left stranded. Not mentioned but I use this when working on household electrical to provide work lighting while the power is off. Lots of potential applications.
This review was perfect! I appreciate your honesty and believe that you gave an honest and thorough review. I got information I didn’t think of and will help me in my travels. You’re really easy to listen to and I’m excited to find the model that fits my family as we adventure around. If there is a coupon code or way that I can pass the credit onto you when I purchase I’ll be happy to return the favor. Thanks again for sharing. ~Sheeara, Alaska
Nice! Thanks for the update. Hard to believe it has been a year already! Might try and find split USB cables for doubling your charging capability. George.
I don't know why I never thought of this. I'm constantly juggling USB ports. Somehow a splitter of some sort never crossed my mind. :-)
Excellent idea. Wonder if I could do that with the wall outlet too.
@@fenraven Yes as long you don't pull too many amps should work fine.
I've been looking at Jackerys for awhile now, and curse myself for not getting one every time the power goes out. I think the 500 is probably the best size for me and if I need more USB ports, I'll just plug my USB splitter in. It turns one into 5.
Jon in rural BC, Canada
I love this! I work in film and TV and am building out a van to live in and travel. I have never owned a Jackery but I have used them before and they are amazing!
Thanks! I've been very happy with my Jackery units. I know that a lot of people doing the live/travel in a van thing end up preferring more of a hard-wired dual battery system, and I can see how that makes sense too for someone living out of their van. I definitely love the ease of using my Jackeries though. Good luck with the van, have fun & stay safe! :-)
@2:40 ....finally, someone answers a fundamentally simple question for me that's been missing on the internet.....charging from car/truck to Jackery to 12v coolers.........thanks, appreciate it.
You can only use Jackery’s own solar panel. Pricey and moderately efficient. A major down side
No, you can run any 12V source into it. The unit itself has no way of knowing where the power is coming from.
Have you tried using a small USB hub for your low powered USB stuff? Assuming you don't pull more than the rated port in total, you could use the hub to charge small lights, hand warmer, etc.
I don't know why I never thought of this. I'm constantly juggling USB ports. Somehow a splitter or hub of some sort never crossed my mind. :-)
Immediately came here to make this comment lol. Great minds think alike!
My laptop only has 3 USB ports - but I have 8 USB devices - I have a USB 4 port hub and a USB C 4 port hub 😀
@@softroadingthewest When I still had a Pontiac Vibe -- with an AC port on the dash from the factory! -- I would just plug in an AC four-port hub to the car so I could charge up my phones, tablet, and GoPro all at once going down the road. It's *super* nice. If you can afford to spare the AC port, there are even larger hubs -- I keep a 10 port hub attached to the backside of my nightstand at home that has chargers for everything I own.
wonder if a cigarette plug splitter (two instead of one) could run my fridge in one port & diesel heater in the other. It may go over the 10 amp limit if the fridge compressor is cycling while heater is heating up
They have those outlets you plug in, that have three plug outlets to it. I put it in my house. You can put it in that battery box also.
Great review!!! Lol love the solo
So maybe a dumb question, but can the solar panels handle rain? I live in the Pacific Northwest, and there’s hardly any sun. In the event of an emergency and it needs to charge from outside, can it handle some wetness? Thanks kindly
Very good review. That 2-3 hour shutoff observation was important. Great preview for new products!
Oh, and... party-on.
I have been thinking of one of these and you gave excellent information. I do wish that they made it with a fold down handle or strap to be able to store it better, I hope that Jackery will make this change and a few of the others you mentioned like the shutdown issue.
Overlanding - As a city guy, new to me. but sounds awesome. I'm going to use it....somehow great video, very helpful.
I love mine..can power a small round fan over a bucket of ice and Wah La! .. Air Conditioning for one solo camper and a small dog!
I have the 500. Looking forward to using it in my Keep for all my needs. Thank you so much for the video.
@@treasuretim3 it depends on how many watts it uses. Sometimes it says so on their label. Try using it once. The Jack will tell you how much you are draining the battery...
Thanks for the update. I looked at the Jackery 500, but ended up getting a Bluetti AC50 and its 120w solar panel. I needed a battery for my cpap out in the woods, and that's what I ended up with. You can do a lot with these little battery packs!
That's awesome, I'm glad you found a solution that worked for you! Having power where & when you need it is so so nice.
@@softroadingthewest i didn't know these things even existed until I saw you and Primal using them on your channels. Started looking around and found HOBOTEC's channel to get even more scoop on them. I'm sitting up in the woods in my hot tent right now enjoying led lights and a 9vdc fan running on the battery.
I have a Prius. I can leave that running even if I'm parked in one spot a few days. I just bought this Jackery and the solar panels. I wish it had two outlets, rather than one, but everything else works well.
Man, you are costing me money! Finally decided to bite the bullet and buy one of these along with a similar fridge to what you have, after seeing this video.
I know this is an old video, but a 12v 2-way adapter with a car 12v USB socket with 4 ports works well for me gives 7 USB ports and still manages a fridge or pump on the other 12v socket.
Cant wait to see what your new vehicle will be!
You go Lucy keep did in line, hope all of you are healing and getting better. Keep up the information videos everyone has there own experience and thoughts on camping gear and how to survive. Thanks 😊
Just received my new 500E. The battery capacity tested to 540wh. They also seem responsive to Customer inquiries. I'm keeping it.
Jackery claims 500 cycles. That is, drained, then charged, then drained, then charged. But it appears most people don't quite use it that way.
How does the constant usage and charging effect the recharge cycles? Can it even be described as cycles, since it's constantly being used and charged at the same time?
I knew he could shred. Anxiously waiting for his “VH1 Behind The Music” episode. And you need to put together an official music playlist.
You mean, "Behind the camping/Music" lol
Haha, I'm a total total hack. I hoped it was obvious, but that's not me playing. :-) I can play a bit of guitar, but not like that. Put me behind a drum kit however and I can generally hold my own. :-)
2 years and loving it. 500 and 100/w panels.
I have been considering purchasing 1 of these jackrie units Ever since the ice storm up here in Portland we lost power And had to stay in a hotel. I think 1 of these and a small generator and maybe we could have stayed in our house and toughed it out.
And a $139 diesel heater. Trust me....Get one.
Thank you for the comment! I was looking for a power station and was thinking about the Jeckery. Especially the fidgde use was interisting.
They’re cool and useful. A couple 1500s and a couple solar panels could easily run a simple off grid cottage with basics!
Great video, thank you! Exactly what I need for overlanding and way easier than a dual battery setup. And right, there are many more electric devices than you may think of. So the 100 solar panel looks to be the perfect fit.
Thanks for being transparent
I thought it had a pure sign wave ac. I plug a radio in during a power outage, a lot of electrical noise. Running lights and other stuff was great.
My concern is the 500 cycle spec that drops you to 80% capacity. I'd like for something like this to have a ten year life span. A competitor advertises 1000 cycles, but I'm sceptical of their claim, the competitor probably uses the same battery and has optimistic marketing. Impressed and enjoyed your review.
I put together a DIY AGM battery backup system for $500 that I estimate at 600 watt-hours. The battery alone weighs 75 lbs. Definitely not something I can easily lug along camping like I could a Jackery or a EcoFlow. So that's why I'm researching these lithium portables.
That is 500 full cycles, if only go down to 50%, then back to 100% - that is only half a cycle. Yes, 13lbs is much more portable and convenient than 75 lbs. There is an 80 discount code - so can pick up for 419 right now.
Checkout the battery chemistry. Hackett has stuck with older cell chemistry while other manufacturers have switched to newer chemistry that gives double the full cycle life. Check Will Prowess channel as he does a lot more detailed reviews …
Thank you for your honest review on this unit. Very helpful.
I just got my Jackery 500 yesterday. I've been using my 240 for my laptop and phone when the power goes out which it tends to do in the winter here in Nova Scotia. I got the 500 charged up. I also got the 100 wt solar panel. I live in a small A Frame cottage and I have a lot of portable things here due to the size of this place. Portable a/c units, the ones with the hose that attach to a slider in a window. I have a portable washing machine and portable dryer. I have no idea if this 500 will power either of those but I will see. I'll try for the washer when the power to the cottage is on just incase it doesn't do the trick for as long as I need. I won't bother with the dryer. I know that will take too much power. But I do have a mini fridge and a small portable heater that I think it can handle. Will see. Loving this product.
You’re a real G opening up with the sponsor
I love mine. Ran two 12v refrigerators from my SUV (one with AC one with DC) while staying in a hotel. Dead in the morning but did the job through the night and just recharged while I drove to my final destination.
I have a Jackery 500 and just purchased a second one. I put mine in a milk crate for storage and carrying. This allows other thing to be set on top.
That's a great idea!
Just bought the Explorer 500. Hope I never really need it, but you never know. I also have four 80 watt solar panels on my roof, but the batteries they were charging have long since passed away. LOL Looking to charge the Jackery with Solar.
Thanks for the review, you have justified my decision!
This and a few other videos has sold me on this thing. I do go camping on occasion, however the main use for this will be at home.
I live in a rural area and we seem to lose power with every storm. With storms getting worse we've lost power for multiple days more than once. So having the Jackery with the solar panel seems like it'd be a great stop-gap for charging devices when we lose power.
I'd even get to keep internet so long as we have signal as I use a mobile 5G router with its own battery.
Amazing review
8:18 the handle making it difficult to stack and pack is why I’ve backed out of purchasing one a number of times. It’d be nice if they had a heavy duty flip up handle of some sort, seems like a no brainer! Thanks for the review.
Yep! Another commenter suggested tucking it into a milk crate turned on its side, to create a stackable surface above. I might give that a shot. The flat top of some competing units however is definitely a mark in their favor.
You have the same 12v fridge as me. I made the mistake of purchasing a bldr 330 thinking it could keep up. It would have… if the 12v output was regulated. Just ordered a jackery 500. 2.5 days with no recharge is more than enough. Easily 3-4 with solar/minimal driving. Even more if it’s sunny. Great review.
I’m looking at getting one for a fridge setup. Thank you for the post.
That's showing him Lucie! I like my small Jackery it is very useful around the house.
Do they make a Jackery or similar that has a handle that moves so the top is flat and you can stack on top of it?
Think like a small cooler. The handle rotates so you can put things on top no problem.
Some competitors make units that have flat-folding handles. Seems like all the Jackery units I've seen have integrated handles that do not fold down. Another commenter suggested fitting it into a milk crate on its side, to create a stackable area above. I might give that a shot.
I’ve read that the Japanese market Jackery has a flat folding handle like the Goal Zero. There is another brand on Amazon with the unit and solar panels identical except baby blue where the orange is. Makes me wonder if jackery released it as a test market item.
The ending was freaking awesome LOL. Great video, thenaks.
This video helped make my decision on size of solar generator! THANK YOU!!!
Not sure if this question has been asked or not... Can you connect a surge protector to the single outlet?
do you know if this power station would keep up a workstation like (monitor, computer, modem, router) per hours or days?
Ordered a 500 off amazon...suppose to get it another 12th...I'm really excited...
One thing didn't expect from Jackery though was I've contacted them about issues 3 times and they just keep sending me automated mail..didn't expect this from a 'quality' company and so popular too..
I've never had my issues addressed to this moment. That's the only gripe I have.
So they gave you a well tested one that will always work well....if we order one from Amazon, we will get more of a crap shoot, as to getting one with no issues.
Very helpful video! One hesitation on the Jackery500 is that it only has ONE household plug...which would be a pain for a family with 2 laptops. Can a multiple-plug power strip be plugged into the sole Jackery input, to recharge multiple household electronic devices? And is it a 'pure sine wave' that I've been reading is best for electronics? Thank you from Tampa Bay, Florida.
I have a three-plug strip plugged into mine because three of my battery chargers are AC only. I think as long as it's within the Jackery's power output specs, it should make no difference. A quick Google search indicates that laptops typically draw around 50 watts. Powering two of them should be no issue. And yes, pure sine wave output.
Awesome this what I need!! Just enough for the fridge saw and electronics! Thanks!!
Informative video!
Awesome review 🤟rock on Donald
TY for taking the time to do such a thorough review. 🙂I am a prep-per and survivalist, and have wasted too much money on different ways to sustain enough power for the things I needed out there on the road. $35 here, $60 there, and sometimes $150 over there add up, but sadly do not amount to an item like this. (Not to mention All the little gadgets to find and store, and All Their cords and adapters, etc. **shakes bad road trip memories away** lol)
I may have to pay over time, but I think most people would be silly not to at least be researching these items. Prep-per or not.
Now I Have to go see what your road trips were like lol 😄🚙
you could use a USB hub to expand that issue. you can get inverters 2000 wh for $325 plus a 110 battery.
Home Depot just had these on sale and I almost bought one but wasn't familiar enough with them to get yet. Seems to be what I'm looking for.
Thinking about a smaller one, but these Jackerys look really good.
Finally were thinking for the planet😊🎉🎉🎉
The issue you have with that handle is also mine. I do have a campervan so space isn’t so much of an issue there but I’m also thinking of turning my vehicle into a micro camper because a few times I’ve really needed have use of sleeping facilities when I was driving my car.
I might go for something like the Poweroak or Allpowers instead because the handles fold out flat making it more compact and easier to fit in those small nooks and cranny’s! Thanks for your video. Nat
Your review definitely convinced me, and I am done with researching power stations for going camping in South Africa, thanks!
@8:51 is pretty important for the future trips - on our first and only trip with one, we didn't try it with a fridge, and never paid attention to whether the USB section shut off after all the devices (iPhone, AppleWatch, small battery pack) were fully charged and not drawing much power. My daughter plans to get a fridge so I'll have to share this with her.
LOL...it was definitely a fail on my part that I forgot to mention the "flashlight." :-) Some kind of more diffuse ambient light panel across the top could actually be useful though to simply light up the space you're in. I wish I had thought to address that.