In a previous review we compared solar generators to gas generators as a backup power source. You can read that article here. Today we will be taking a look at different “solar suitcase” options, or different non-rooftop solar setups and comparing which is the most portable, which produces the most power, and which is easiest to use.
Ecoflow 400W Foldable Solar Panel
Ecoflow makes a sleek, slim profile 400W portable solar panel array, which includes an XT-60 charging cable. It also comes with a carrying case that acts as a stand. However, the stand is flimsy and tough to work with. You don’t have any choice when it comes to the angle the panels are placed at relative to the sun, and moving the array is tough to do without help from another person. The panels are durable, and can withstand snow, wind, and rain with no issues. The entire setup weighs 42 lbs. The Ecoflow panels are currently on sale for $750.
Click here for the latest price of the Ecoflow 400W solar setup.
Renogy 400W Solar Panel
If you’re looking for a setup that is more affordable, more rigid, easier to set up and even more durable, check out the portable solar suitcase by Renogy. It weighs just over 30 lbs, it’s easy to open, the “kickstand” system is easy to use, and it folds well. It also comes with a carrying case, and the metal handles on the panels themselves make for more convenient handling and moving. It has a metal rim, nice bumpers, and magnets inside so that when you fold it, the panels stay folded.
The main drawback to this solar setup is that there are only one set of cables, on the left side, so if your power bank is in a fixed location it might be tough to get it set up and connected within a confined space. However, for $600 there is pretty much no reason to opt for the more expensive Ecoflow panels over the Renogy panels, unless you need something that folds up suuuuuper thin and is slightly more wind-resistant. On a couple windy days the Renogy panels blew over, while the Ecoflow panels stayed sturdy.
DIY 200W x 2 Solar Suitcase
The DIY setup is by far the most affordable ($350 total) out of all the 400W options tested here. It’s also the only setup that offers bifacial panels, which means both the front and back side of the glass harness energy from the sun. However, the DIY is also the biggest and heaviest of the three options, so be sure you have sufficient storage space.
I used PVC pipe to makeshift a stand, that ended up working superbly well.
Conclusion
While all three solar setups generated close to their advertise wattage output, the DIY setup won narrowly by producing a peak power of 395W. A few things to note: when the panels got hot, power production decreased slightly across all three setups. Also, in low light conditions, the DIY setup produced the most due to the bifacial design. Overall, we’d recommend trying a DIY system if you’re looking to maximize production per unit cost.
