| Compatible Devices | Headphones, Tablets, Speakers, Cellular Phones |
| Compatible Phone Models | Apple iPhone 8 |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Special Feature | High Energy Conversion, Smart IC Technology, SunPower Solar Panels, Portable and Folding Solar Panel Charger, 3 USB Outputs See more |
| Connector Type | USB |
| Brand | BigBlue |
| Total USB Ports | 3 |
| Wattage | 28 watts |
| Power Source | Solar Powered |
| Item Weight | 21.5 Ounces |
” The BigBlue 28W USB Solar Charger produces the most power of any portable solar charger we’ve tested, and it has unique features that make it more versatile and durable, including three output ports (versus two on most other chargers), a weatherproof port protector, and an expansive but lightweight array of panels to catch every last ray of sunlight. Although other models come close to matching it in terms of power, the BigBlue is also smaller and lighter than other options with similar output, so it can more easily fit into a camping backpack, hiking daypack, or emergency kit.” — By Wirecutter Editor
Follow the Sun, Power Your Life!
Note:
– 28W refers to the power of the solar panel which is not equal to the actual output power of the USB port, because there will be some loss In the process of conversionin and in process of output in order to maintain the voltage stability.
The power of the solar panels:
Our portable solar charger has 4 solar panels, each piece is 7w; so the power is 4*7w=28W;
Note: Any cloud cover arrives it may knock the value of output down. We suggest you to replug the device and reopen the solar panels to reset the power controller.
Package:
A lot of people complain about the charge times or it not working. First it’s a solar panel, it’s not going to charge as fast as it would plugged into your car or wall. Second it works best when it is outside in direct sunlight, not behind glass, not in the shade, not in cloudy weather, IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT. It will charge if it’s not in direct sunlight, but much slower. Also it’s going to take longer to charge if you’re using your phone while charging. The more you plug into it, the longer it will take to charge everything. It also doesn’t help if you’re using a 12ft long cable. So keep in mind when buying this, direct sunlight, turn off the device you’re charging, charge 1 device at a time when possible, and use the shortest cable possible.
It’s very useful to have. Good for camping, hiking, hunting, survival, emergency preparedness, or just being environmentally conscious. If there’s a reason why you can’t charge your phone from an outlet, this is perfect. The size is about that of two tablets/iPads stacked on top of each other or a small laptop when folded up. And about 3 or 4 tablets/iPads side by side when opened up. It came with some carabiners so you can attach it to your backpack, tent, a chain link fence or just about anything that would help face it in direct sunlight. It also has a little indicator light where you plug your USB cable into that lets you know if you are getting power, the brighter the light, the more power you’re getting.
As long as you keep those few things in mind this solar panel is effective and super simple to use.
Right off the bat, I’m going to start off by saying that this is NOT a perfect product. If you’re looking for a renewable energy source solution for any kind of practical or NBC prepping, and you think you’re going to find it for under $80, I would suggest maybe adjusting your expectations to something more reasonable and realistic.
Despite all that, however, for the price, size and weight of this item, it’s an incredible camping and survival tool. Instead of carrying those extra pounds in batteries, you can just carry 4-8 18650s or AAs, and rotate their recharge cycles throughout your trip. If you ever get stranded or trapped because of some environmental condition, at least you know there is no out limit on you having the ability to have a source of electricity. So, your radio, beacon, gps, LED light, etc. have a much higher likelihood of being useful to you days beyond your planned trip.
At 28W with three (3) USB charging ports, it’s probably the best value for the price (within this product category). It’s worth noting that this product is NOT 100% waterproof. The weatherproof sleeve over the solar cells is what keeps the functioning components from making contact with water. The USB charging area is protected only by a water resistant sleeve. My recommendation is to use your paracord to line panels 2&3 completely horizontally, panel 1 on a 45 degree upward slope, panel 4 on a 45 degree downward slope, and the sleeve protecting the USB completely vertically (facing down). This way, you can optimize the efficiency of whatever sunlight is available, and protect the USB connections (and the entire unit) from water damage. You can then try to cover your devices or chargers where the male part of the USB cable connects with a plastic bag.
I’ve tried a 15w and 21w USB solar charger. Seattle is cloudy all the time, so the first two were unusable. But this one can deliver about 4-5 watts in the omnipresent cloudy northwest gloom.
This charger also has a neat feature where if it doesn’t detect any current draw, it shuts off and restarts every few seconds. This allows a clean restart if a cloud or something blocks the sun momentarily. Older solar chargers lacked this function.
This unit is large, but it works well.
Originally posted 2022-01-26 21:13:50.
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