Portable power stations are great to own whether you’re camping outdoors, hiking through the mountains, working off-grid, or in need of emergency power during a power cut.
1. They differ from standard power stations because they are specifically designed for portability – the portable power station uk featured on this list weighs a maximum of 10.7 kg, with most weighing just a couple of kilograms.
2. The size is also important. Compact power stations (no bigger than 30 x 30 cm) are easiest to fit in your car or backpack.
3. For charging small devices, a power station with a capacity of up to 150 – 300 Wh will suffice. This can be used to charge laptops and phones during a power cut, for example.
4. Large devices like TVs and mini-fridges will require a power station with a capacity of 400 – 500 Wh. Bear in mind that these are often heavier.
5. Models with a three-pin AC power outlet will allow you to plug in a variety of devices.
6. Take note of how your portable power station can be charged. Many can be charged using solar panels, but you’ll need to keep the weight of these in mind if you are planning on bringing them with you on trips away. Most can be charged using both a wall outlet and a car outlet.
The Benefits of Using a portable power station uk
Portable power stations are extremely practical, and handy for both everyday use and extra reassurance in emergency situations.
They can be used to charge power tools when you’re working in an area without power
They can be used in caravans and camper vans to power larger items such as mini-fridges, TVs, or coffee machines
They can be taken on hikes or on camping trips to ensure you’re always able to charge your phone
They can be stored in the home and used to power lights in the event of a power cut
Those who charge using solar panels use renewable and clean energy
They can be for long train journeys or car trips to charge multiple laptops or smartphones at once – meaning all the family can have their devices powered
Can be stored in your car and used to charge your phone in case of a breakdown
Allow you to charge your laptop wherever you are – meaning you can work in the garden, the park, or on the beach
They can be used for garden parties to charge speakers, lighting, or projectors when you don’t have a power source nearby
The capacity of a portable power station is measured in watt-hours and determines how long your generator can power various devices on one charge. A higher battery capacity will directly impact the cost of the generator, as large lithium batteries are more expensive.
Those with higher battery capacity are also likely to be heavier. While this isn’t always the case, it’s worth bearing in mind if you’re looking for a very high-powered but portable power station.
When choosing the capacity, decide what you want the generator for. If you only need a generator to keep your lamp or smartphone on during a power cut, you don’t need a particularly large battery capacity.
For powering the mini-fridges, TVs, coffee machines, or kettles for long periods of time in tents or caravans, you’ll need a generator with a capacity between 400 and 500 Wh.
For off-grid work and powering small power tools, you may need a capacity of 500 Wh.
You should be able to power a number of devices at once.
The power stations featured on this page vary in size, from those with 6 outputs to the POWEROAK Portable Power Station which has 12 different outputs.
To ensure your power station is as versatile as possible, opt for one with a variety of USB ports. This will allow you to charge a range of smaller devices including smartphones, laptops, and speakers.
For larger items, you’ll likely need a standard 110 V AC wall plug, as well as a standard car cigarette lighter.
Some have wireless charging capabilities, which means you can simply lie your smartphone on top and it’ll charge.
