Jackery is a leading brand in the market of portable power stations. These products are designed to provide off-grid power solutions for various scenarios such as camping, van life, or emergencies. But what sets Jackery apart from other brands? And are their products worth the investment? This review aims to answer these questions.
Solar Generators vs Power Stations Before diving into the product details, it’s important to understand the difference between a solar generator and a power station. Essentially, a solar generator is a power station that is paired with one or more solar panels. This review will help you understand how to choose the best option based on your specific needs.
Product Features Jackery offers a range of power stations and solar panels, each with different capacities, outlets, designs, and recharge methods. This review provides a comprehensive comparison of these products, including a detailed table with links to purchase them in different countries.
Is Jackery Worth the Money? Finally, this review provides an honest verdict on whether Jackery products are worth buying. It evaluates the value, quality, ease of use, and warranty of the products. Additionally, it offers some use cases and tips for different types of customers.
The Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station is a high-capacity solar generator designed for home backup, emergencies, and outdoor camping. With a 1002Wh capacity, it can power up to 8 devices simultaneously, including home appliances and outdoor devices. The product can be fully charged within 6 hours using solar panels or within 5.5 hours using an AC wall outlet. It features a smart MPPT controller for optimal charging efficiency and a pure sine wave inverter for stable voltage output. The product is easy to use with an ergonomic handle and a one-touch setup. It uses industry-leading cylindrical batteries that meet UL safety standards and are certified with Impact-Resistance Class 9, making it safe for outdoor camping.
The Jackery Explorer 1000 is a portable power station that can provide clean and unlimited solar energy for various devices and appliances. It has a large capacity of 1002Wh and can deliver up to 1000W of AC output power. It has eight outlets, including three AC outlets, one USB-A, one USB-A quick charge 3.0, two USB-C PD, and one car outlet. It can be recharged by solar panels or AC wall outlet, and it features a smart MPPT controller for optimal charging efficiency. The Explorer 1000 is designed for outdoor camping and home backup power, and it is safe and reliable with industry-leading cylindrical batteries and pure sine wave inverter. It also has an ergonomic handle and a simple and speedy setup. The Explorer 1000 is compatible with the Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panel, which is foldable and has USB outputs for phones.
- High Capacity and Multiple Outlets: The product has a 1002Wh capacity and can power up to 8 devices simultaneously with 3 AC outlets, 1 USB-A, 1 USB-A quick charge 3.0, 2 USB-C PD, and 1 car outlet. It can power 90% of home appliances and most outdoor devices.
- Clean and Unlimited Solar Energy: The product can be fully charged with solar panels (sold separately) within 6 hours or with an AC wall outlet within 5.5 hours. It uses a smart MPPT controller for optimal charging efficiency and a pure sine wave inverter for stable voltage output.
- Easy to Use and Safe for Outdoor Camping: The product has an ergonomic handle and a one-touch setup. It features industry-leading cylindrical batteries that meet UL safety standards and are certified with Impact-Resistance Class 9. It can withstand 3 drops from 0.9m height on any surface.
Here is a summary of the reviews for the Jackery Camping Gear – Power Bank:
- Reliable and versatile power source: Many reviewers praised the Jackery Explorer 1000 for its ability to power various devices and appliances, such as CPAP machines, fridges, microwaves, TVs, laptops, and more. They also appreciated its multiple outlets, including AC, DC, USB-A, and USB-C ports. Some reviewers mentioned that it was useful for power outages, camping, RV trips, and other situations where grid power is unavailable or unreliable.
- Lightweight and portable design: Many reviewers commented on the Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station’s relatively light weight (22 lbs) and sturdy handle, which made it easy to carry and transport. They also liked the simple and clear display, which showed the input, output, and battery level. Some reviewers noted that the handle was fixed and did not fold, which could limit the storage options and space.
- Efficient and long-lasting battery: Many reviewers were impressed by the Jackery Explorer 1000’s battery capacity (1002 Wh) and inverter efficiency (up to 90%). They reported that it could run their devices for several hours or even days, depending on the power consumption and settings. They also liked that it could be recharged by solar panels, wall outlets, or car outlets, and that it had a regulated 12V output for consistent voltage. Some reviewers suggested that it could have a higher USB-C output (60W instead of 18W) and a replaceable battery pack.
- Poor customer service and support: A few reviewers complained about the lack of customer service and support from Jackery. They said that they had issues with the 12V port, the display, or the charging, and that they could not get a response or a solution from the company. They also mentioned that the manual was very basic and did not provide enough information.
Upgrade to LiFePo4 Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries
Let’s delve into the reasons why the Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus equipped with LiFePO4 batteries, is a compelling choice for those seeking portable power solutions:
- Advanced Battery Technology:
- The standout feature of the Explorer 1000 Plus is its LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery. Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries, LiFePO4 batteries offer enhanced safety, longer lifespan, and better performance in extreme temperatures.
- LiFePO4 batteries are known for their stability, making them ideal for outdoor adventures, emergency backup, and off-grid living.
- Expandable Capacity:
- The Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus equipped with LiFePO4 batteries Plus allows users to expand their power capacity. With the addition of three Jackery Battery Pack 1000 Plus units, the system can be scaled from its base capacity of 1.25 kWh up to an impressive 5 kWh.
- This flexibility ensures that you can meet varying power demands, whether you’re camping, running essential appliances during a power outage, or charging devices on the go.
- Robust Power Output:
- The Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus equipped with LiFePO4 batteries Plus boasts an impressive 2000W surge power and a continuous output of 1000W. This means it can handle high-power devices like blenders, power tools, and even small appliances.
- With three AC outlets, multiple USB-A and USB-C ports, and a 12V car port, you’ll have no shortage of options for charging your devices.
- Portability and Design:
- Despite its substantial power capacity, the Explorer 1000 Plus remains portable. Its foldable handle and manageable weight make it easy to carry.
- The dimensions (approximately 14 x 10.24 x 11.14 inches) strike a balance between compactness and functionality.
- Versatility:
- Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or dealing with a power outage, the Explorer 1000 Plus has you covered. It can charge smartphones, laptops, mini-fridges, CPAP machines, and more.
- The inclusion of USB-C PD (Power Delivery) ensures fast charging for compatible devices.
- Quiet Operation:
- Unlike noisy generators, the Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus equipped with LiFePO4 batteries Plus operates silently. This makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use without disturbing your surroundings.
In summary, the Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus equipped with LiFePO4 batteries combines safety, expandability, and robust performance, making it an excellent investment for anyone seeking reliable portable power. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a homeowner, or a frequent traveler, this upgraded version provides peace of mind and convenience. 🌟🔋
Jackery 1000 Plus Reviews
Here’s a summary of the reviews for the Jackery 1000 Plus Power Station:
- High-Powered Performance: Reviewers are impressed with the 2,000W rated output and 4,000W peak power, which efficiently runs high-energy devices like electric grills and coffee makers. The multiple output ports, including Dual PD 100W, are praised for their ability to charge devices quickly and simultaneously.
- Sustainability and Reliability: Users highlight the industry-leading sustainability, with the product being the first verified by TÜV SÜD for its eco-friendliness. The advanced LiFePO4 battery cells are noted for their long lifespan, providing up to 4,000 charge cycles and lasting up to 10 years.
- Versatile Charging and Intelligent Control: The rapid charging capabilities, taking only 100 minutes from a wall outlet or 2 hours with solar panels, are highly valued by customers. The intelligent control via an advanced APP feature for tracking and managing the power station is also a standout feature.
- Emergency Power Supply: The EPS feature, which auto-switches to battery power in just 0.02s during a grid outage, is mentioned as a crucial benefit for continuous power supply.
Overall, the Jackery 1000 Plus is celebrated for its powerful performance, sustainability, versatility, and reliability, making it a top choice for off-grid living, road trips, and emergency home backup power.
Jackery Solar Panel Addons
- Jackery offers two types of solar panels: SolarSaga 60W and SolarSaga 100W. They are both foldable and portable, and can be connected to the Explorer 1000 with an 8mm DC connector.
- The SolarSaga 60W has a tri-fold design and weighs 9 lbs. It can charge the Explorer 1000 in 17-18 hours under full sun.
- The SolarSaga 100W has a bi-fold design and weighs 9.1 lbs. It can charge the Explorer 1000 in 8-9 hours under full sun.
- The solar panels have built-in kickstands and USB ports for charging devices directly. They also have a smart IC chip to optimize the charging efficiency.
- Some reviewers mentioned that Jackery offered a $100 off coupon code for buying 2 SolarSaga 100W panels. They also suggested using an adapter to connect two solar panels in parallel for faster charging.
Jackery Usage Tips
A portable power station can be an incredibly useful tool while camping. It provides a reliable source of power in remote locations, allowing you to use various electronic devices that can enhance your camping experience. Here are some potential uses:
Lighting: A portable power station can power LED lights at your campsite, making it safer and more comfortable at night. You can hang string lights around your tent or use a portable lamp for reading.
Cooking Appliances: If you prefer not to cook over an open fire, a portable power station can power small cooking appliances like an electric grill or a slow cooker. This can make meal preparation easier and more varied.
Electronic Devices: A portable power station can keep your electronic devices charged. This includes smartphones, tablets, laptops, or even a portable projector for a movie night under the stars.
Cooling and Heating: Depending on the season, a portable power station can power a portable fan or a small heater, adding to your comfort.
Emergency Preparedness: In case of emergencies, the Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station can power a radio for communication or a medical device like a CPAP machine.
Here are some tips for using a portable power station while camping:
- Plan Ahead: Consider the devices you plan to use and calculate their power consumption to ensure the power station can meet your needs.
- Conserve Power: Use energy-efficient devices and turn off devices when not in use to extend the power station’s life.
- Charge During the Day: If your power station is solar-compatible, make the most of sunny days and charge the power station during daylight hours.
- Protect Your Power Station: Keep the power station dry and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures to prolong its lifespan.
- Charge it fully before using it. The manual recommends charging the unit to 100% before the first use, and every six months or when not in use. This will help extend the battery life and performance.
- Use DC to DC adapters for CPAP machines. If you have a CPAP machine that uses 24V DC, such as the Resmed S9 or Airsense 10, you can save power by using a DC to DC adapter instead of the AC outlet. This will avoid the inefficiency of converting DC to AC and then back to DC. You can find compatible adapters online by searching for “CPAP adapters Resmed”.
- Lower the humidity and temperature settings for CPAP machines. Another way to reduce power consumption for CPAP machines is to lower the humidity and temperature settings of the water chamber and the heated hose. This will reduce the heating load and extend the run time of the Jackery.
- Use the solar panels to recharge the unit. The Jackery Explorer 1000 can be recharged by solar panels, such as the Jackery SolarSaga 100W. This is a great option for camping, RVing, or emergency backup. You can connect up to two solar panels in parallel using the included adapter. The charging time will depend on the sunlight conditions and the angle of the panels.
- Avoid high-power appliances and devices. The Jackery Explorer 1000 has a maximum output of 1000W, which means it cannot power appliances or devices that draw more than that. Examples of high-power appliances are hair dryers, electric kettles, microwaves, and air conditioners. You can check the power rating of your appliances or devices by looking at the label or using a watt meter.
- Solar charging: You can use solar panels to recharge the Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station in a green and eco-friendly way. The recommended solar panel input is 18V, 10A (max 200W). You can also connect two solar panels in parallel with an adapter to speed up the charging process.
- Car charging: You can use the car charger cable to recharge the Jackery Explorer 1000 from your vehicle’s 12V port. The charging time depends on the output of the car port, but it usually takes about 14 hours.
- CPAP usage: You can use the Jackery Explorer 1000 to power your CPAP machine for a comfortable sleep. The run time depends on the model and settings of your CPAP machine, but you can extend it by using a DC-DC converter and lowering the humidifier and heater settings.
- Customer service: If you have any questions or issues with the Jackery Explorer 1000, you can contact the customer service team by email at support@jackery.com or by phone at 1-888-502-2236. They will try to respond within 24 hours and provide you with a satisfactory solution.
Remember, a portable power station can make camping more convenient and enjoyable, but always respect nature and leave no trace. Happy camping! 🏕️ 🔋
BONUS: Check out our printable car camping packing lists.
Calculate Electronics Runtime on Jackery Power Generator
To calculate how long your devices can run on a Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station, follow these steps:
- Check Your Device’s Power: First, find out your device’s operating power, which is typically measured in watts (W). You can usually find this information on the device label or by multiplying the voltage and amps shown on the label (e.g., 12V x 5A = 60W).
- Know Your Jackery Power Station’s Watt-Hours: Each Jackery power station has a specific watt-hour (Wh) rating. For example, the Jackery Explorer 500 can run AC devices at 230V that require less than 500W.
- Calculate Runtime: Use the following formula to estimate how long your device can run:
- Runtime = Battery Capacity (Wh) / Device Wattage (W)
- Runtime = 500Wh * 0.85 / 60W ≈ 7 hours of working time.
Keep in mind that actual power consumption may vary based on different factors.
Jackery Equipment Average Run Times
The Jackery Explorer 1000 is known for its impressive endurance. With a battery capacity of 1002 watt-hours (Wh), it can power various devices for extended periods. Let’s explore some examples:
- Laptop: If you have a laptop that consumes around 60W, the Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station can keep it running for approximately 16-17 hours.
- Mini Fridge: A small mini fridge with a power draw of about 50W can run on the Explorer 1000 for roughly 20 hours.
- CPAP Machine: For those using a CPAP machine during sleep, the Explorer 1000 can provide power for approximately 10-12 nights.
- Camping Lights: Enjoy up to 76 hours of camping lights.
- Electric Grill: Fire up the grill for approximately 50 minutes.
- Mini Fridge: Keep your perishables cool for around 66 hours.
- MacBook Pro: Charge your MacBook Pro up to 8 times.
- iPhone: Juice up your iPhone for an impressive 100 charges.
Remember that actual runtime may vary based on factors like device efficiency, temperature, and load fluctuations. The Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station’s versatility makes it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures, emergencies, or everyday use. 🌟🔋
DIY – Build your own Jackery 1000 Solar Generator
If the Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station isn’t within your budget or you prefer a more customized solution, building your own DIY solar generator is an excellent alternative. By assembling the components individually, you can tailor the system to your specific needs and even save some money. Let’s explore how you can create your own solar power station step by step! 🌞🔋🛠️
- Plan Your System:
- Assess your power requirements. Calculate the total energy consumption of the devices you want to power using solar energy.
- Decide on the size and number of solar panels, battery capacity, and inverter rating based on your needs.
- Sizing Solar Panels:
- Choose solar panels with an appropriate wattage. Consider factors like panel efficiency, available sunlight, and space constraints.
- Remember that solar panels are typically rated in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW).
- Selecting a Charge Controller:
- The charge controller regulates the flow of electricity from the solar panels to the batteries.
- Match the controller’s capacity to the total wattage of your solar panels.
- Types include PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers.
- LiFePO4 Batteries:
- Opt for Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries known for their longevity and safety.
- Calculate the battery capacity needed based on your daily energy consumption and desired backup duration.
- Choosing the Right Inverter:
- The inverter converts DC (battery) power to AC (household) power.
- Select an inverter with sufficient capacity to handle your peak load (e.g., running appliances).
- Ensure compatibility with your battery voltage.
- Mount the Solar Panels:
- Choose a location with maximum sunlight exposure.
- Angle the panels correctly for optimal energy capture.
- Securely install the mounting hardware and connect the panels.
- Install the Charge Controller:
- Position the charge controller near the batteries and solar panels.
- Wire the panels to the controller, ensuring proper connections.
- Configure the controller settings for LiFePO4 batteries.
- Connect the Batteries:
- Arrange batteries in series or parallel based on your voltage and capacity requirements.
- Connect them to the charge controller using appropriately sized cables.
- Install the Inverter:
- Select an inverter matching your system’s voltage and power needs.
- Position it near the battery bank.
- Wire the inverter to the batteries, following safety guidelines.
- Wiring and Safety:
- Use high-quality cables and connectors for all connections.
- Install fuses or circuit breakers to protect against overcurrent.
- Properly ground the entire system.
Remember, building your own solar generator allows you to customize every aspect and gain a deeper understanding of solar energy. Explore online resources, tutorials, and community forums for additional guidance. Happy solar building! 🌿🌞🔌