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Buying guide

The Best Outdoor Generators

We compared eight Jackery portable power stations on owner ratings, expert reviews, and specs. The Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 is the top pick for its balance of power, portability, and price.

Updated

The bottom line

The Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 is our top pick for an outdoor generator. It has a 1,500W AC output, fast charging capabilities, and a 10-year lifespan, all at a competitive price of $499. Owners rate it 9.6/10, citing reliable performance and versatility. The closest alternative is the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2, which has similar features but at a higher price. For a budget option, the Jackery Explorer 300 has essential power for a fraction of the cost at $289, though with lower capacity and output.

Top pick
Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power StationJackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station $499.00

Best balance of power and price

The Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 has a 1,500W AC output, fast charging, and a 10-year lifespan for $499. Owners rate it 9.6/10, citing reliable performance and versatility. Skip if you need solar charging included.

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Runner-up
Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 $699.00

Powerful with solar option

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 has a 1,500W AC output and includes a 200W solar panel for $699. Owners rate it 9/10, praising its power and portability. Consider if you need solar charging.

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Budget pick
Jackery Explorer 300Jackery Explorer 300 $289.00

Affordable essential power

The Jackery Explorer 300 has a 300W AC output for $289. Owners rate it 9.2/10, highlighting its lightweight design and reliable charging. Choose if you need basic power for electronics.

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The field, ranked

  1. Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station Best for power and price balance 9.0/10 $499.00 Amazon
  2. Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 Best for high power with solar option 8.5/10 $699.00 Amazon
  3. Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Great for compact design and power 8.5/10 $559.00 Amazon
  4. Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 and 100W Solar Panel Good for versatile charging options 8.0/10 $619.00 Amazon
  5. Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 with Solar Panel, Portable Power Station, AC/USB-C Output Solid for fast charging and portability 8.0/10 $528.99 Amazon
  6. Jackery Solar Generator 300 and SolarSaga 100W Light Decent for lightweight and solar charging 7.5/10 $529.00 Amazon
  7. Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 and 2x100W Light Panels Basic for high capacity and weather resistance 7.0/10 $749.00 Amazon
  8. Jackery Explorer 300 Minimal for budget and basic needs 6.0/10 $289.00 Amazon

Who should buy which

If you need a powerful generator for camping or emergencies, the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 or Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 are your best bets. If you're on a budget and only need basic power for electronics, the Jackery Explorer 300 is a good choice. Those who value portability and lightweight design should consider the Jackery Solar Generator 300.

What owners complain about

Some owners of the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 have reported issues with solar panel stability and initial charging times. A few users of the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 have mentioned app compatibility problems and slow charging rates in certain modes.

The also-rans

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 with Solar Panel (B0D66VD3X4) and the Jackery Solar Generator 300 and SolarSaga 100W Light (B0H3T7GHZC) did not earn picks due to either higher prices or lower power outputs compared to the top picks. The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 and 2x100W Light Panels (B0FQJ29HVZ) is a high-capacity option but lacks the balance of power and price found in the top picks.

How this was put together

This guide is based on 36,690 owner ratings, 10 expert reviews, and detailed specs for eight Jackery portable power stations. No products were tested hands-on. Evidence is thinnest for the Jackery Solar Generator 300 and SolarSaga 100W Light (B0H3T7GHZC) and the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 and 2x100W Light Panels (B0FQJ29HVZ), which have fewer than 22 owner ratings.