Smartphones and other devices have become indispensable when traveling or doing outdoor activities. It’s just stupid when there’s no socket available for charging away from civilization.
The solution:
With a solar power bank, you can recharge your batteries and smartphones with the help of the sun. But what are good solar power banks?
Avoid poor quality:
BeyondSurfing has spent over 55 hours researching and presents the best solar power banks 2024. Find out now what you should definitely look out for when buying and which outdoor power banks impress with their quality.
The best solar power banks?
Content
- 1 These are the top solar power banks 2024
- 2 Bestsellers: The most popular solar power banks
- 3 Buy a solar power bank: How to make the right decision
- 4 FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers
- 4.1 How do solar power banks work?
- 4.2 How good are solar power banks?
- 4.3 What do I need to look out for in a solar power bank?
- 4.4 How long does it take to charge a solar power bank?
- 4.5 Which solar power bank is the best?
- 4.6 What does a solar power bank cost?
- 4.7 Where can I buy a solar power bank?
- 4.8 What are the advantages and disadvantages of a solar power bank compared to normal power banks?
- 4.9 Are there solar power bank tests by Consumer Reports and Öko Test?
- 4.10 What are well-known solar power bank brands and manufacturers?
In a hurry? Our favorite solar power bank:
- 4 solar panels
- High capacity of 26800 mAh
- Charges several devices simultaneously
- Compact and robust
- Limited waterproof housing
- LED display and LED lamps
Solar Powerbank Checklist
- For what? With solar power banks you can charge your devices at any time.
- Loading time? Depending on the quality, charging solar power banks can take from a few hours to a few days in the sun.
- Charging? Solar power is not sufficient for most devices to fully charge the power banks.
Also interesting: The most popular waterproof MP3 players 2024.
These are the top solar power banks 2024
1. Elzle Solar Powerbank 26800mAh
Advantages
- 4 solar panels
- High capacity of 26800 mAh
- Charges several devices simultaneously
- Compact and robust
- Limited waterproof housing
- LED display and LED lamps
Disadvantages
- Only one carabiner for fastening
- High dead weight
Conclusion
The solar power bank is splash, shock and water resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use. Thanks to the 4 solar panels and the large storage capacity, the power bank is a reliable companion when traveling. Around 30 hours of sunlight are required for a full charge.
The biggest drawback of the solar power bank is the lack of eyelets for attaching carabiners etc. When hiking, the power bank would dangle from the rucksack and cannot be ideally aligned with the sun. In addition, the weight is comparatively high at 621 grams, but this is compensated for by the performance of the solar panels.
Product details
Capacity: 26800 mAh | Charging time (UV): approx. 20 h | Weight: 556 g | Waterproof: Yes | Number of solar panels: 4 | USB ports: 2
Customer ratings
Customers praised the good charging times of the powerbank, which charges faster than other solar powerbanks thanks to its four solar panels. They are also satisfied with the workmanship and performance of the product.
Just under 12% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Some customers had problems with defective devices, but customer service was accommodating. Other customers are not completely convinced by the power bank’s solar charging function.
2. ADDTOP Solar Power Bank
Advantages
- 4 removable solar panels
- High capacity of 25000 mAh
- Compact and robust
- Waterproof housing
- Charges several devices simultaneously
- LED display and lamp
Disadvantages
- Only one eyelet for fastening
- No carabiner included
Conclusion
The relatively large solar surface makes the power bank a practical companion for hiking and traveling. Thanks to the large charging capacity, small electronic devices can easily be charged several times in succession.
The power bank has an eyelet or hanger to attach it to the backpack. Unfortunately, you have to buy the carabiner yourself. Several eyelets would be desirable here, as the solar power bank would otherwise wobble on the backpack.
The special feature of this solar power bank is that the solar panels can be removed. You can therefore decide for yourself whether and with how many solar modules you want to use the power bank.
Product details
Capacity: 25000 mAh | Charging time (UV): approx. 26 h | Weight: 575 g | Waterproof: Yes | Number of solar panels: 1+3 | USB ports: 2
Customer ratings
Customers praise the high capacity of the power bank. The cell phone can be charged while the power bank is charging. Customers are also of the opinion that this product charges faster than solar power banks with only one panel.
Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 10% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Customers were not satisfied with the workmanship of the three attachable panels. These can easily come loose. In addition, the solar power bank apparently does not work with wireless chargers where you simply place the cell phone on top.
3. solar powerbank 26800mAh GOODaaa
Advantages
- High capacity of 26800 mAh
- Robust and compact
- Micro-USB, USB-C port and IOS1 port
- Charges several devices simultaneously
- Lamp
Disadvantages
- High dead weight
Conclusion
The housing is made for robust outdoor use. It is water, shock and dust resistant. The capacity is easily suitable for charging smartphones or tablets several times. This makes the power bank perfect for traveling or festivals.
Product details
Capacity: 26800 mAh | Charging time (UV): N/A | Weight: 730 g | Waterproof: Yes | Number of solar panels: 1 | USB ports: 1 Micro USB + 1 USB-C
Customer ratings
Customers praise the high capacity of the power bank and state that this is really true. The LED lamp on the back is also rated as very useful when camping.
Around 4% are neutral about the product, while 10% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Some customers were annoyed by the long charging times of the power bank. You think that it is hardly possible to fully charge the power bank with solar energy.
4. elzle Solar Power Bank 26800 mAh
Advantages
- 4 solar panels
- High capacity of 26800 mAh
- Compact and robust
- Waterproof housing
- Charges several devices simultaneously
- LED display and lamp
Disadvantages
- No carabiner for fastening
- No eyelets
Conclusion
The elzle Solar Powerbank is waterproof and shockproof, making it ideal for outdoor use. Rain, dust and shocks have little effect on the device. The battery can be charged easily with its three solar modules. Handling is simple.
Product details
Capacity: 26800 mAh | Charging time (UV): approx. 25 h | Weight: 572 g | Waterproof: Yes | Number of solar panels: 3 | USB ports: 2
Customer ratings
The majority of customers are satisfied with the solar power bank. It does what it is supposed to do and one charge lasts a long time. Only the high weight is sometimes perceived by customers as a nuisance.
Around 11% are neutral about the product, while 8% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Customers who have rated the product negatively/neutrally are not entirely satisfied with the performance of the power bank. You are of the opinion that the specified capacity is not correct or have received partially defective products. Customer service was accommodating.
5. Hiluckey Wireless Solar Power Bank 26800 mAh
Advantages
- High capacity of 26800 mAh
- Robust and compact
- Waterproof housing
- Charges several devices simultaneously
- LED display and lamp
Disadvantages
- Only 1 solar module
- Only one carabiner for fastening
- Should not be loaded and unloaded at the same time
Conclusion
The compact solar power bank from Hiluckey can charge several devices at the same time. The battery is surrounded by a robust and waterproof housing. This protects the power bank from rain and snow.
But be careful: The device is not waterproof and should never be submerged under water.
Product details
Capacity: 26800 mAh | Charging time (UV): approx. 31.25 h | Weight: 470 g | Waterproof: Yes | Number of solar panels: 1 | USB ports: 3
Customer ratings
The majority of customers are very satisfied with this product. They praise the functionality and attractive design of the solar power bank.
Around 5% are neutral about the product, while 2% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Some customers were supplied with a defective product or were not satisfied with the capacity of the solar power bank. Customer service was accommodating in these cases.
6. CONXWAN Solar Powerbank
Advantages
- High capacity of 26800 mAh
- Robust and compact
- Waterproof housing
- Charges several devices simultaneously
- LED lamp
Disadvantages
- No LED display
- No carabiners or eyelets for fastening
Conclusion
The solar power bank from Conxwan is compact and has an attractive orange and black design. It is equipped with an LED lamp and thus brings a lot of light into the dark.
The housing is waterproof, but not water-resistant. Therefore, never immerse the power bank under water, otherwise the device will be damaged.
he power bank has a carabiner and eyelets for attaching it to your rucksack. It can therefore be charged while walking.
Product details
Capacity: 26800 mAh | Charging time (UV): N/A | Weight: 650 g | Waterproof: Yes | Number of solar panels: 4 | USB ports: 3
Customer ratings
Customers praise the high capacity of the solar power bank. According to them, a smartphone can be charged approx. 5 times. They are also of the opinion that the power bank is well made.
Around 10% are neutral about the product, while 19% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Some customers find the solar power bank too heavy and unwieldy. Some had problems with defective devices.
Best solar panel charger
Bonus: Anker SOLIX PS30 Foldable Solar Panel 30W
Advantages
- 3 powerful solar panels (21W in total)
- 2 USB ports
- Light
- Robust and compact
- Several eyelets for fastening
Disadvantages
- No power bank
Conclusion
A solar charger is a good addition to the solar power bank. The solar power bank can be charged during the day and used as a battery. At the same time, the smartphone can be charged via the solar cells.
The device is lightweight, robust and has 4 eyelets for fastening. This means you can attach it perfectly to your rucksack or tent and point it towards the sun. On hikes, the device will not dangle from the backpack and is therefore not noticeable.
What is the advantage of solar chargers?
They have larger and therefore more powerful solar cells. If the device is in direct sunlight, the smartphone charges just as quickly as if it were plugged into a socket. Theoretically, it can even be used to charge a normal power bank.
Product details
Capacity: no battery | Weight: 1100 g | Waterproof: yes | Number of solar panels: 4 | USB ports: 2
Customer ratings
Customers were very satisfied with the device’s fast charging times. Your mobile devices charge with the Anker PowerPort (in direct sunlight) just as quickly as at the socket.
Around 9% are neutral about the product, while 22% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Some customers are not satisfied with the charging performance of the device or were sent a defective product. Customer service was accommodating.
Bestsellers: The most popular solar power banks
(**Last update 2024-09-16)
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Buy a solar power bank:
How to make the right decision
Imagine you want to plan a route, take another photo or find a good place to spend the night, but your cell phone has run out of battery. There is no power socket for miles around.
The solution:
That’s exactly what solar power banks are for. This means you can easily charge your devices on the go with the help of sunlight.
The best is yet to come:
Discover in the following guide what is important when buying a solar power bank and how you can recognize good quality.
The advantages and disadvantages of solar power banks?
- Endless energy supply
- Environmentally friendly, green electricity
- No prior charging necessary (but recommended)
- Can be used anywhere
- Handy and compact
- Only works in the right weather conditions
- Needs direct sunlight for ideal performance
- Long charging times via solar
What to consider when buying a solar power bank?
When looking for the best solar power bank, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:
- Capacity: How much capacity do you need?
- Solar power bank charging time: How quickly are the powerbanks charged in the sun?
- Cell phone charging time: How often can your smartphone be charged with a fully charged solar power bank?
- Outdoor suitability: Is the housing shock-, dust- and water-resistant?
- Type of solar panel: How many solar panels would you like to use?
- USB ports: How many and which USB ports do you need?
- Compatibility: Are your devices compatible with the solar power bank?
- Size and weight: How important is a low weight to you?
- Additional features: Are additional features such as a flashlight important to you?
- Price: Is the price-performance ratio of the power bank justified?
Solar Powerbank capacity?
The capacity indicates the power of the battery in the power bank. This is usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
This means:
The more mAh a solar power bank has, the more energy it can store and release. Depending on what the solar power bank is used for, more or less mAh is required.
Solar Powerbank charging time?
The greater the charging capacity of a solar power bank, the longer it takes to charge.
This means:
The charging time of a solar power bank depends on its capacity and can be calculated using a simple formula.
How is the loading time calculated?
Charging time = capacity of the power bank (in mAh) / output of the solar module (in mA)
Example:
How long does a 20000 mAh power bank with a solar panel (solar energy = 5W / 1000 ma) take to fully charge?
Calculation:
(20000 mAh) / (1000 *0,8) ≈ 25 hours
Solution:
The power bank therefore needs 25 hours of sunshine to fully charge.
Note:
The speed of charging also depends on the angle of incidence and the strength of the sunlight. Ambient temperature and component subtleties can also affect the charging time. This was attempted to be taken into account in the example with a factor of 0.8.
It is advisable to use solar energy mainly for recharging while you are out in the sun. Therefore, try to fully charge the Solar Powerbank before every trip. This means you are less dependent on the weather when in doubt.
Cell phone charging time?
Whether iPhone or Samsung, the smartphone has become an important companion when traveling and is probably most often connected to solar power banks. But how often can the device even be charged?
Formula for calculating the number of charges:
Charges = capacity of the power bank / battery capacity of the smartphone
The battery capacity of the smartphone can usually be found in the manufacturer’s specifications.
How often can I charge my smartphone with the solar power bank?
Depending on the capacity of the power bank, the smartphone battery can therefore be charged more or less often. Use the table below to find out approximately how often a cell phone can be charged.
| Model | 5,000 mAh | 15,000 mAh | 25,000 mAh |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 11 | approx. 1 time | approx. 2 times | approx. 4 times |
| iPhone X | approx. 1 time | approx. 3.5 times | approx. 5.5 times |
| Samsung Galaxy S 20 | approx. 1 time | approx. 2.5 times | approx. 4 times |
| Samsung Galaxy S 10 | approx. 1 time | approx. 2.5 times | approx. 4 times |
| Huawai 30 Pro | approx. 1 time | approx. 2.5 times | approx. 4 times |
| Huawai P20 Pro | approx. 1 time | approx. 2.5 times | approx. 4 times |
Outdoor suitability?
When traveling, camping or hiking, you are often without electricity for long periods of time. This is why solar power banks are mainly used outdoors.
Solar power banks must meet the following requirements for outdoor use:
- Waterproof
- Dirt resistant
- Robust
- Loops and eyelets for fastening
It can get cold, wet and dirty outside. Solar Powerbank must be able to withstand these environmental influences. The power bank must also be dirt-resistant and robust in order to withstand dust, sand and other stresses.
The most important thing:
There should be eyelets and/or loops to attach the solar power bank to a bag or rucksack, for example.
Why?
On hikes, you are mainly out and about during the day. This means that the time spent walking can be used for recharging.
What many people don’t know:
The more eyelets and loops there are, the easier it is to align the solar power bank towards the sun. As the sun moves, the orientation of the power bank also needs to be adjusted occasionally.
Solar module types and variations?
There are two different types of solar power banks:
- Solar power banks with one panel
- Fold-out solar power banks with multiple panels
1 Solar power banks with one panel
- Handy
- Robust
- Low weight
- Long loading times
Solar power banks with a solar module are very handy and take up very little space. Their compact design makes them robust.
However, a single panel can only generate a small amount of energy. A full charge – with the same mAh – therefore takes considerably longer.
2 Solar power banks with multiple panels
- Shorter loading times
- Low weight
- Compact when folded
- Bulky when unfolded
Thanks to several solar panels, a fold-out solar power bank has the great advantage of being charged more quickly. Nevertheless, the weight of these devices is low.
When folded, the solar modules are usually very handy. However, the modules must be folded out for charging. This makes the solar power banks somewhat bulkier than smaller versions with just one panel. Transportation in unfolded mode is less practical.
Type and number of USB ports?
Commercially available solar power banks have 1/2/3 or 4 USB, USB C or micro USB ports. The version you need depends on how many devices you want to charge at the same time.
Important: When purchasing, make sure that the solar power bank allows devices to be charged simultaneously or only one after the other.
Device compatibility?
Another factor in the purchase decision is compatibility. After all, the solar power bank should also be able to charge the device. As a rule, any USB-compatible device can be charged with a solar power bank.
Note: Before buying, check whether the solar power bank is actually compatible with your devices and has all the necessary connections.
Size and weight?
Size and weight play an important role when buying a solar power bank. The more capacity the solar power bank has, the larger and heavier it is.
Why do size and weight play an important role?
When traveling by car or bus, there is plenty of storage space for larger appliances. However, if you are on foot and only carrying a waterproof rucksack, space is usually at a premium. More weight means more strain when walking.
You should be aware of this:
Think carefully about where and how the solar power bank will be used before you buy it. Select the size and weight accordingly.
Additional features?
In addition to the basic functions, the solar power bank can also be equipped with other features. These include, among others:
- Charging indicator
- LED lamp
- Stand
- Additional cables
- Quick-Charge USB 3.0 ports
Good price-performance ratio?
Prices for solar power banks vary greatly and depend in particular on:
- Capacity
- Outdoor suitability
- Number of solar modules
- Additional features
A good power bank with10000 mAh is available from around $20. Good solar power banks with a capacity of over 20000 mAh are already available from around $35.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers
How do solar power banks work?
How good are solar power banks?
What do I need to look out for in a solar power bank?
How long does it take to charge a solar power bank?
Which solar power bank is the best?
What does a solar power bank cost?
Where can I buy a solar power bank?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a solar power bank compared to normal power banks?
Are there solar power bank tests by Consumer Reports and Öko Test?
What are well-known solar power bank brands and manufacturers?
*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.
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