Jackery vs BigBlue vs FlexSolar for foldable solar panel?
Posted by AgressivePurple@reddit | preppers | View on Reddit | 8 comments
I'm looking for a small solar panel that fits in a backpack and that can be used to power small things in case of an emergency (telephone, flashlight, charging AA batteries, etc). Secondary, I would prefer if that panel would be able to be connected to either another panel or a power station (mostly so that if in the future I decide to upgrade the capacity, I can still use it).
I seem to come back to the same 3 models - the Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini, the BigBlue X60 and the FlexSolar 60W.
I am interested in getting a useable wattage out of them even in less than ideal conditions and their reliability/durability.
Does anybody here has experience with any of these models? Thank you!
WardenWolf@reddit
BigBlue has kind of declined and disappeared in recent years. I don't expect them to be around much longer. Check out Anker, though.
AgressivePurple@reddit (OP)
I looked at the Anker model but found a lot of reviews about how it has a weak output.
About BigBlue, you think the issue might be the warranty? Or just the general decline in quality?
Kazaryn@reddit
I tried anker too but only got 5/25 when I measured it. Returned it and picked another.
WardenWolf@reddit
As in they've just been disappearing. You don't see them much anymore as a company, so I suspect they're nearly out of business.
Chainsawsas70@reddit
I have some Goal Zero panels that are small and would work well for a camping/hiking application. Not sure about the exact output but I'm sure it's listed on their website.
Leeleepal02@reddit
I bought a solar panel to charge my phone and phone bank for 10 dollars on Temu. It works but I bought it before the war with Iran and things have increased in price since then.
PrisonerV@reddit
If you have a Sams or Costco, get them from there as any problems you have can be easily resolved by returning it.
V1ld0r_@reddit
There's been very little change in solar panel tech. Efficiency has increased very little over the last few years and even compared to last decade it's still a single digit change.
The difference is that now we can get almost the same efficiency with flexible panels as we can with rigid ones. However, the power produced is still directly related to the area of the panel.
If you want more power, you need a bigger panel or multiples. No way around it.
Material quality and ease of use\quality of life details will make a bigger difference than the panel itself across any of the big brands.