Don’t have to rely on a socket to charge your smartphone? That works: with solar chargers. What are the bundles of energy good for and how good is the charging performance? TECHBOOK does the check.
For camping trips, vacations in exotic countries or for the park: With a solar charger, you can charge your smartphone, Bluetooth box, laptop and more without having to rely on a power outlet. The charging power of the available devices varies – depending on how much power the user needs. The selection in this segment is now large. TECHBOOK shows the best solar chargers in comparison.
This is how solar chargers work
Solar chargers consist of three components and convert sunlight into electricity. Hitting the sun’s rays solar panelworries photovoltaic cells for the light to be converted into electricity. This will be sent to the battery forwarded and can now be used to charge devices. Since the voltage generated varies depending on the solar radiation, a charge controller is used for regulation.
Who should access the solar charger?
Since solar chargers convert sunlight into electricity, they are a good alternative to regular electricity. Which solar charger is best suited for the individual purpose depends on various factors: If you only want to charge small devices such as smartphones, you can choose a model with a 5 volt voltage. For larger devices – such as laptops – the electrical voltage should be 12-18 volts.
The 7 best solar chargers in comparison
Whether for larger or smaller electrical devices: These solar chargers are suitable for a wide variety of uses. Here we show what they cost and what they can do.
The bestseller: Hiluckey wireless solar power bank
the Hilucky wireless solar power bank can charge up to four devices simultaneously. The model offers two USB-A outputs and one USB-C in/out. A fourth device can also be charged wirelessly. The power bank is not only limited to solar charging, but can also be charged with a cable. Thanks to the built-in flashlight and the protection against water, dust and falls, it is particularly robust and suitable for outdoor activities.
The device is an absolute top seller and convinces buyers: At the online retailer Amazon, for example, it has more than 7400 ratings and 4 out of 5 stars. In terms of costs, the Hiluckey Wireless Solar Powerbank is included around 45 eurosbut is often available reduced.
The foldable: Elzle solar energy bench
the Elzle Solar Energy Bank is particularly efficient and practical thanks to its four foldable solar modules. It has a battery capacity of 26800 mAh and charges up to two devices at the same time. In addition to the solar panel, the charger has a USB-C input that fully charges it in six to eight hours. The integrated flashlight with four different modes even makes the model a multi-purpose outdoor helper.
The charger is priced at just over 50 Euros, which is comparatively expensive for a power bank. However, the very efficient solar charging, the foldable solar modules and the multi-purpose function justify the price – at least if you travel a lot and fully exploit the possibilities of the Elzle power bank.
Also read: The 5 most powerful chargers for smartphones and laptops in comparison
The inexpensive bestseller: FlexSolar Solar FLS-6W-UK
A slightly different version of a solar charger in comparison is this FlexSolar FLS-6W-UK: This is a mini solar panel that can be mounted on a wall, for example, in order to charge various devices from there. With a size of 17.5 by 27.1 centimeters, it is handy and generates six watts. Since the solar charger is waterproof, it can be permanently installed outside and – according to the manufacturer – work there for five to eight years.
With a price of just over 20 Euros the FlexSolar FLS-6W-UK is one of the cheaper models. If you want to get a feel for solar charging without spending a lot of money right away, you should go here.
The professional: X-Dragon solar panel
That X Dragon solar panel is foldable and therefore more efficient than regular power banks. The battery can convert up to 24 percent of the sun’s energy and delivers up to 2.8 amps of current. It is water-repellent according to the IPX4 standard and therefore suitable for outdoor activities and can be folded up and transported easily. The solar panel can charge smaller devices such as smartphones and tablets. But with the right adapter, computers and car batteries, for example, can also be used.
With a steep price of just under 150 euros the X-Dragon solar panel is the most expensive solar charger in this comparison, but it also has more to offer than its competitors. The model is being canceled by the online retailer Amazon 4.4 out of 5 Stars in more than 1200 reviews. A purchase recommendation for anyone looking for a professional solar charger.
Also read: No socket in sight? The best power banks for smartphones
The cheap: VOOE solar power bank
Anyone looking for a cheaper alternative for solar charging should take a look at this VOOE Solar throw. With a battery capacity of 26,800 mAh, the power bank can charge two devices at the same time and is fully charged and ready for use in eight to ten hours via the micro USB port. However, charging via a cable is the preferred option for this device, so solar charging should only be used occasionally or in exceptional cases. If you plan to charge regularly or exclusively with solar energy, you are better served with another device. However, this product is very well suited as a backup for emergencies.
The VOOE solar charger costs around 30 euro and received at Amazon 4 out of 5 stars with around 1250 ratings. It is a good choice for emergencies or beginners.
The versatile: BigBlue 28W SunPower solar charger
The foldable solar charger BigBlue 28W SunPower can be easily mounted with the help of the built-in eyelets – for example on backpacks – and thus enables simple solar charging during outdoor activities. The model can charge two devices at the same time via USB ports. The built-in ammeter gives you a constant overview of the performance and allows you to track the efficiency of the solar charger. The four solar panels are protected from moisture by the PET polymer surface and can withstand rain and fog.
The BigBlue 28W SunPower Solar is priced at just under 90 euros. For demanding outdoor fans, it is a high-quality and robust solution at a reasonable price.
The durable: Anker PowerPort Solar 21 Watt
The charger is also foldable and suitable for outdoor use Anker PowerPort Solar. It allows charging at up to 2.4 amps per port in direct sunlight. Thanks to stainless steel and solar panels coated with PET polymer, the model is particularly hard-wearing, according to the manufacturer. The solar charger has an efficiency of 21.5 to 23.5 percent and can charge two devices at the same time. The manufacturer also offers an 18-month guarantee.
In terms of costs, the Anker PowerPort solar charger is just over 90 euros With the performance and robust quality offered, outdoor fans cannot complain.
Conclusion: Which device is worthwhile for whom?
Overall, after the comparison, it can be said that solar chargers are suitable for those who want to emancipate themselves from the normal power grid. You may also need backup from an alternative power source in the event of a blackout or similar emergency, or someone may want to charge from solar for other reasons. Smaller devices such as power banks with additional solar charging options are suitable for occasional use or just as an emergency plan. Foldable versions are ideal for camping, hiking and other outdoor activities. If you want to permanently charge with solar energy or want to switch some devices to solar charging, you should choose models that can be installed permanently.