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Portable Power Stations

Portable power stations compared by stated watt-hours, continuous and surge output watts, outlets, solar input limit, battery chemistry, weight and warranty.

What to compare in portable power stations

A power station is a battery, an inverter and ports in one case. Figures on the listing show which jobs it can take on, and which it cannot.

  • Capacity in Wh: Use the Wh capacity as stated, since it is the one figure that compares across brands. Ah numbers on a different voltage mislead.
  • Continuous and surge watts: The output rating and the surge rating are separate lines. A motor or compressor may need the surge figure, so read both.
  • Battery chemistry: LiFePO4 and standard lithium-ion are named on the listing, along with a stated cycle count. Compare those as written.
  • Input limits: Check the maximum solar input in watts and volts, and the AC charging rate, because they set how you can refill the unit.
  • Port mix: Count AC outlets, USB-C power delivery watts and 12V ports. A strong battery with the wrong ports is awkward to use.
  • Weight and handles: Units with the same capacity vary a lot in weight. The listed weight and handle design decide whether you can carry it without help.

Make a list of what you plan to plug in and read each item's own label for watts. Then compare that list with the station's continuous output, keeping surge for items with motors or compressors.

Guides to read first