The Best Solar Generators

Sunday, February 9th

2025 Solar Generator Reviews

EcoFlow

• Prices start at around $399, up to $9,000 for a whole home system
• Consistent discounts and deals offered
• Can be used as a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply)
• Easily and safely expandable
• Very user-friendly app
• Loyalty rewards program
• Positive customer reviews

EcoFlow was founded in 2017 by four friends who were working with drones and batteries for the drones. Eli Harris, Hannah Sieber, Lei Wang, and Fan Zheng are the people behind EcoFlow, a story of innovation and hard work. The four founders were featured in Forbes' "30 Under 30” in 2018. With offices in San Francisco and China, the company brought to life the RIVER series of solar generators. It has since received funding through several China-based investors, and its headquarters are now located in Shenzhen, China.

Solutions for any budget

EcoFlow's highly rated EcoFlow River 2, a truly portable solar generator, only weighs a little over 7 pounds and can generate up to 784Wh daily. It has a 600W AC output and can charge from 0-100% in 3 hours with one set, and at the time of this review, it was $399 for the generator and one solar panel. To charge 80% of high-wattage home appliances, you can get the EcoFlower River 2 Pro for $999, and that one charges in less than 70 minutes and can produce up to 1.8 kWh daily. You can expand your system according to your needs and budget.

Consistent discounts offered

Like other solar generator companies, EcoFlow consistently offers great deals and discounts. Some are available automatically, while others must be obtained through subscribing to a newsletter or email list. At the time of this review, there were storewide savings to the tune of hundreds of dollars, plus an additional $50 off for people who signed up for their newsletter.

Higher price point, better quality

EcoFlow's quality surpasses that of bargain brands, despite its higher price. EcoFlow solar generators are built to last more than a month or two. The higher price means more quality control and better customer service in the event that something goes wrong. Customers seem to initially be a little surprised at the higher price, but most of them go on to be avid and very loyal users - often helping to troubleshoot other customers' problems, which are usually resolved due to something the customer didn't know or understand.

Helpful customer fan base

One of the nicest things about having loyal customers who are fans of your product is that they can share their knowledge about troubleshooting and how things work with those who are new to the solar generator scene. EcoFlow has one of the best customer communities, more than happy to help each other via a multitude of social media groups. The groups are friendly and very knowledgeable, resolving common and not-so-common issues with positivity.

Very user-friendly app

The EcoFlow app is very user-friendly, and with over 10,000 mostly positive reviews, it's safe to say that it is well liked. Customers refer to the interface as "quite slick and well designed” and say that the chat function to contact customer service is great. Those who purchased the generator and then went through natural disasters were really happy with the app and its functionality. Helpful reviewers added advice for those preparing for a natural disaster to set up the app as soon as possible so you can connect via Bluetooth. In the event of Wi-Fi loss (as in a disaster), you cannot set up the app.

EcoCredits loyalty rewards program

For loyal customers, EcoFlow offers a members-only program with even more benefits and discounts. Similar to other solar generator companies, the membership is tiered depending on how much money you spend. You can also earn points and smaller discounts by subscribing to and liking social media channels, spending a certain dollar minimum.

Positive reviews from repeat customers

Everywhere we looked, we found far more positive reviews from customers than other solar generator companies, and EcoFlow topped them all with the loyalty they have engendered over the years. With reliability and expandability as the top features of EcoFlow solar generators, customers are very satisfied.

Uninterrupted Power Supply capability

Unlike many solar generator options, the EcoFlow can be used as a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply), meaning that it will switch to your solar generator power in 10 milliseconds rather than the 30+ seconds or more it takes for other generators. EcoFlow states confidently that their solar generator can be used to power CPAP machines and well pumps that deliver life-saving water in disaster situations. Other companies, when pressed, will not recommend them for medical devices.

EcoFlow is our #1 pick for solar generators.

EcoFlow has been very successful since their start and continues to be consistent with its reliability and expandability for solar generators. They offer a reliable product with a great customer base that helps each other and cheers each other on. EcoFlow is also one of the sleekest and safest solar generators that can be expanded to produce more power. While a bit higher-priced than bargain solar generators, the price is tied to higher quality. We are happy to recommend EcoFlow as our top pick for solar generators.

Grecell

• Priced from around $600 to around $2,000
• Cords are compatible with many devices
• Some models can be used as UPS
• All outlet ports are located in the front
• Reliable and performs properly
• Positive customer reviews

While Grecell lists the name of a company in the UK as their headquarters, in actuality, this solar generator manufacturer is part of Shenzhen Lianying Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. and is located in Shenzhen, China, where many other solar companies are headquartered (some under the same umbrella of corporations).

Prices can vary

The highly reviewed Grecell T500 solar generator with solar panel starts at $409, and you can choose between an 80W or 100W solar panel. The Grecell 1000W generator is usually near $1,000, but watch out for sales. At the time of this review, it was only $659, and that included a 200W solar panel. Prices can go higher for solar generators with more wattage and accessories.

Pricing + discounts = good deal

Grecell offers coupons, sales, and discounts often. At the time of this review, they were offering up to 36% off most of their solar generators.

Reliable workhorse

Many customers describe the Grecell as a tough workhorse with an outdated look. The solar generator is not as pretty as competitor models in the same price range. If practicality wins over looks for you, however, you will most likely be happy with a Grecell generator.

Cords and outlets

One of the most efficient things about the Grecell solar generator is that the outlets are all on the front side of the generator, making it really easy to plug everything in. Another great characteristic of the Grecell battery is the cords. The 110 power inlet connection uses a common size cord, and the Anderson solar connection includes an adapter to connect to the solar panels.

Some models can be UPS

There are several models of Grecell solar generators that can act as an uninterrupted power supply. When plugged into the wall, electronics are powered by the grid. If the grid power stops, the power station automatically switches to battery power within 10 milliseconds.

Positive reviews

Grecell is almost always rated at least four out of five stars wherever we look for customer reviews. Many customers compare it to the more expensive solar generators, saying it can do what the high-priced models do at half the price. Still others mention that when they lost a cord, Grecell sent them a replacement for a few dollars plus shipping, something that rarely happens in this industry. More customers say their experiences with customer service were very positive. It appears that the more people know about solar generators in general, the more they appreciate Grecell as an option.

A top pick

There is a lot to like about the Grecell solar generator. We were happy to see positive reviews of the efficiency and quality of the generator. Customers generally have only one request for improvement outside of a more modern design, and that is to have an indicator that shows how much estimated time is left before the charge is fully depleted. We're happy that some of these solar generators are capable of being a UPS and find Grecell to be one of the top brands when looking at solar generators available in North America.

Dabbsson

• Prices from around $1,100 to $3,500 plus expansion costs
• Consistently offers deals, discounts, or coupons
• Free shipping
• App available for Android and iOS
• Expandable system
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• Compact, versatile design

Founded in 2012, Dabbsson solar generators are produced and made by Shenzhen Daipusen New Energy Technology in Shenzhen City, China. The company has patented numerous solar energy technologies and has ventured into selling solar generators to the international market. The website closely mirrors the offerings of nearly every other China-based solar generator company, offering similar discounts. Their policies are somewhat more lenient than many of their rivals, although Dabbsson charges a little more than the bargain-priced solar generator brands.

Prices appear high but they're all-inclusive

While it's true that the Dabbsson solar generator kits run from around $1,100, this includes all the solar panels and accessories needed to run the solar generator. These are also high-output generators: they can even be used as a home power backup. A portable solar generator like the Dabbsson DBS1300 Portable Power Station - which still packs a punch with 1330Wh - was priced at $599 at the time of this review. You can add on solar panels for an additional price.

Free shipping for all products - with some restrictions

Dabbsson offers free shipping for all orders, but these generators aren't available to customers in American Samoa, Guam, The Marshall Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, Uthe U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, or Alaska. For shipments to Hawaii, a shipping fee of $800 applies due to the additional ocean freight costs. Customers should also know that Dabbsson doesn't ship or deliver on weekends or holidays. Dabbsson will contact you with an email if shipments will be delayed longer than a few days. Shipments come mostly via UPS and FedEx.

Damaged or lost deliveries

Dabbsson does not take liability for any products damaged or lost during shipping (which could be problematic). If there is a problem with the product itself, you must contact them within 20 days of receipt of the solar generator.

30-day money-back guarantee - you pay return shipping

Dabbsson has a good 30-day money-back guarantee, as you can return your solar generator for any reason within 30 days. However, their return policy is only valid if you purchase your solar generator through their official website. If you've purchased through a third party, you are required to go to the third-party vendor and get a refund through them. For the non-quality-related returns of US orders, Dabbsson charges you for the shipping cost. For quality issues, they offer a one-time free replacement, and they will cover return shipping costs.

Lots of discounts and deals offered

Dabbsson's website consistently runs specials and offers discounts. At the time of this review, the entire website was discounted, with some solar generators being sold at nearly 50% off. In addition, they have a loyalty club that offers customers discounts based on a "Dab Credits” system. You can receive preferred customer status and membership pricing on some things. They will give you bonus points in exchange for offering them your personal information and for helping them market through social media.

App available for mobile devices

While the app suffers from some glitches and is not updated as fast as users would like, many users are satisfied with the app and find it convenient and useful. On the other hand, users express a desire for the English version of the app to be less riddled with grammatical and spelling errors, as this can cause some confusion during use.

Versatile and compact design

Despite their lighter weight, Dabbsson solar generators are incredibly powerful. They offer a high capacity and are powerful enough to power most appliances for an extended period. They have so many powering options that you don't have to worry about a long recharge or a lack of sun to get power. You can charge the Dabbsson solar generator with AC power, solar panels, or car power. This system is also versatile in that you can add more battery packs to get even more power. Finally, the design offers multiple ports, including USB and AC outlets, so that it can accommodate many types of devices.

Overall, a solid pick

With the innovative and modern design, app-based controls, and some really cool features, Dabbsson offers an elegant power solution. The 30-day money-back guarantee is better than other China-based companies, and customer service is slightly better. The expandable system is as beautiful as it is efficient. Due to a few customer reviews that mention quality control issues and struggles with getting refunds or repairs, it gets knocked down in its rating a bit, but it is still one of our top picks.

Allpowers

• Prices start at $259 to $1,999
• Free shipping
• Lighter weight than other solar generators
• Frequent promotions
• Robust inventory
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Allpowers, based in Guangzhou, China, was founded in 2008, specializing in the design, development, and production of portable solar energy products. Since then, they have oriented themselves to various international markets, including North America. You can find Allpowers products in 30 countries as they continue to offer solutions to critical energy shortages around the world with clean and sustainable solar products.

Budget-friendly pricing

Allpowers solar generators are priced very competitively. The Allpowers Solar Generator Kit 600W solar generator also includes a 100W flexible solar panel as well and was bargain priced at $309 at the time of this review. You can get the R4000 for around $2,000, which also includes a solar panel. The expandability makes the generators great for any budget, since you can just add on to your power when your budget permits.

Frequent discount offers, sales

Rivals would find it challenging to match the competitive pricing of Allpowers solar generators. Allpowers almost always has a discount, coupon, or other promotion going on. At the time of this review, customers could receive up to 58% off in storewide sales and another additional 5% for signing up for the newsletter. Additionally, most customers could qualify for a power bank or a carry-on bag complimentary with purchase. Customers who value finding the lowest prices as a top priority will be happy with Allpowers.

Free shipping

Allpowers ships products from a local warehouse with free shipping and no tax, usually within 48 hours of the order. The website claims you will receive your solar generator within 3-5 working days, and as soon as it is shipped, you will receive a tracking email. Unfortunately, there are some customers who only received part of their orders, or their order was marked as delivered and it was not. However, these instances appear to be the exception rather than the norm.

Limited support

If you encounter an issue with shipping or defective products, the only way to contact Allpowers is through an email. While some customers have had success getting a replacement product within the first 30 days, those with warranty issues or continual problems with defective replacement generators have reported they cannot get anyone from Allpowers to respond to them in a timely manner. Most do get some kind of response; it just takes a while.

Top-notch at first, especially for the price

There are plenty of reviews describing how wonderful the Allpowers solar generators perform - and many people are truly impressed. Many customers say that the solar generators have great features and that the generators are easy to use and live up to what they say they will do.

Troubling reports

However, these generators seem to have a problem with longevity. It appears that some users experience major problems within two years of their purchase, sometimes much sooner. From a questionable crowdfunded project that never came to fruition to reports of subpar internal parts and more, there are some troubling reports regarding Allpowers solar generators; it's not all positive. Still, you would be hard-pressed to find a lower-priced brand that actually works at all as a solar generator.

Ends up being slightly above average

The innovations Allpowers applies to some of the solar panel options are impressive. Portable solar panels are especially an area in which Allpowers excels. Others who have purchased and reviewed the Allpowers solar generators are impressed by their exceptional performance, especially considering their low price points. If it is simply a backup power source that isn't a necessity and you like low price points, you will probably be happy with an Allpowers solar generator.

Jackery

• Prices starting at $229 to $6,599
• Clubs for enthusiasts, customers, and resellers
• User-friendly interface
• Offers a trade-in program
• Longer warranty available
• Generators are lighter than other brands.
• Offers small discounts to teachers, military, first responders, and medical professionals

Founded in 2011, Shenzhen Hello Tech Energy Co., Ltd. created "Jackery", the leading brand of light-charged outdoor power supply, and, with their affiliate program, became an overnight influencer favorite. They offer a special club for influencers and enthusiasts who will review their products in exchange for discounts and perks.

Prices are a little higher, but quality is better

Prices are a little higher here than with the bargain-priced solar generator brands, but Jackery has sold millions of units, and overall, most have lasted 2-4 years before a repair is needed or something goes wrong. The very highly-reviewed Jackery Solar Generator 1000 starts at $1,299 and includes a solar panel and expandability. If you don't need that much power, you can opt for lesser power and get a model priced around $800.

Lighter weight generators are easier to handle

Overall, Jackery solar generators are lighter than other solar generators. Not only that, the Jackery products have a great handle.

Different clubs available

Customers can get rewards points and gain tiered membership if they sign up on the Jackery website. Points can be earned by liking and following the company on social media channels, submitting birthday information, and other means in addition to buying products. Depending on the tier, they get different discounts and perks. There is also the Jackery Explorer Club, which is an exclusive ambassador program that is geared toward influencers who can get free products to review, along with discounts and access to the Jackery website audience.

User-friendly experience

You can go to many DIY solar groups and forums online, and inevitably at each and every one there are a handful of posts of seasoned hobbyists who will recommend Jackery as the perfect pick for someone who knows nothing about solar generators. Jackery products are very easy to use out of the box, and many who are unfamiliar with the technology - or any technology at all - find setting up a Jackery solar generator to be a pleasant experience.

Trade-in program offered

Jackery offers a trade-in program for older solar generators. If you are interested in an upgrade, you can turn in your old generator for a credit toward a new one. At the time of this review, Jackery was offering $40 to $430 in the form of a Jackery gift card for several types of older generators.

Offers discounts for service workers

Jackery offers a stackable 3% discount off for medical workers, healthcare professionals, first responders, military workers, and teachers. This means you can combine this discount with other discounts.

Extended warranty

The Jackery solar generator warranty is 3 years on some products and 5 years on other products. This is longer than most solar generator companies.

Customer service problems

We have seen a few more new negative reviews in the last year that indicate some older Jackery units are starting to have problems. When some customers tried to contact support, they encountered difficulties getting Jackery to honor their warranty policy. It appears that it is similar to other solar generator companies: the customer must send in pictures and videos of themselves following repair advice from customer support or videos of error codes. Prepare to spend a month or so resolving any warranty/return issues that are happening outside of the 30-day purchase window. We are concerned about how Jackery will handle future customers when the solar generators begin to age and break down.

Jackery is a solidly average solar generator brand

Jackery was one of the first solar generator companies to grab the attention of the American consumer. With viral marketing and a great-looking product with so many features, it was an immediate hit. It's gotten good reviews in the past several years, and people have been generally happy with it. There are some recent customer service and returns issues that took it down a few stars, but Jackery is still a solidly average pick - especially for those who are just starting out and don't know a lot about solar generators.

Vigorpool

• Prices from around $549 up to around $1,700
• App to configure settings and get live information
• All ports are on the front and back, fits easier in tight spaces
• 10ms UPS won't damage your devices
• Power 12 devices simultaneously

Vigorpool, a solar generator company headquartered in Hong Kong and China and with branches in the United States, offers a line of solar generators with the mission to "create quality portable power stations that are reliable and affordable.” Their goal is to deliver quality design and functionality and make clean power available to all.

Prices are competitive

Vigorpool's solar generators are priced competitively, although solar panels must be added on - they don't offer a comprehensive solar generator kit. The oft-reviewed influencer favorite Captain 700 starts at $599 and can be fully charged in 1.5 hours using 5 recharging methods. It can also be used as an uninterrupted power supply and can power 13 devices at once. It can be controlled using a remote control, too.

Nice design

The design is nice and efficient with plenty of outlets to charge many devices. Charging ports and outlets are on the front and back of the unit, which makes it easier to fit a Vigorpool solar generator in tight spaces. It can power 12 devices at a time as well.

UPS functionality

The website states that power can switch within 10 milliseconds, making it safe to use as a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply).

App available

There is an app available that is integral in using Vigorpool solar generators, available for iOS and Android. The Chinese-branded app seems to be doing better than the American version, which at the time of this review was rated 1.8 out of 5 by customers. Complaints abound regarding the usability of the app. Users cannot update the app, the app crashes, and one customer reported that when she couldn't connect to her solar generator, she did not get a response for several days when she attempted to contact customer service.

Lack of information

There are few reviews on Vigorpool solar generators and very little information about Vigorpool as a company. There are virtually no reviews online that are not compensated as affiliates. Even more problematic are the reports of terrible customer service. Customers report that they call the customer service phone number only to be sent to voicemail or disconnected before anyone can answer. With the amount of money consumers are spending, they deserve more information about the company.

Warranty policy

The warranty period for Vigorpool Power Products is 2 years. The purchase period starts from the purchase date by the original buyer. To define the start date, a sales receipt or other reasonable proof of the first consumer's purchase is required. The warranty is void if the solar generator is purchased from any third-party website or dealer. The warranty does not clarify who would pay for return shipping for repairs or generator replacements. This is another example of a lack of details on the Vigorpool website.

A risky choice

With the amount of money you are spending, you deserve to be able to access details about warranty policies and who is in charge of the company. This is not available for Vigorpool. We would say that this is a below-average pick for solar generators, and we recommend that you look at the higher-ranking brands on our list before committing to Vigorpool.

Nature's Generator

• Prices from around $500 to $10,000
• Versatile and expandable design
• Can be integrated into the home
• Can be used as a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply)
• Can be recharged using wind power
• Some models can charge Tesla cars
• Includes a carry cart with purchase

Nature's Generator, founded in 2015 by Huntkey, is headquartered in Shenzhen, China. Huntkey is a member of the International Power Supply Manufacturers Association (PSMA), a vice chairman of the Chinese Power Supply Society (CPSS), and a member of the China Electric Vehicle Charging Technology and Industry Alliance. Huntkey has branches in the United States, Japan, and beyond, and has cooperative factories in Brazil, Argentina, and other countries. The North American branch operates from Oxnard, California.

Prices from $500 and up

While you can get a solar generator starting at $500 here, the best-selling generator at Nature's Generator is actually $899, and it's the Nature's Generator Elite. It's a 3600 watt generator that allows additional battery units for enhanced capacity and solar panels for additional solar charging, with an LED screen for easy monitoring of remaining power, and remaining charge time. Of course, this expandable system will cost more money as you add other products to your setup.

Offers a whole home system

Nature's Generator Powerhouse model can add solar panels, wind turbines, power pods, a transfer switch, a security camera system, and more. You can choose what you want to customize to your needs. It can go up to 19200Wh and more with the expansion system. Just don't flinch when you realize that you could be paying as much as $10,000 for it.

Versatile and expandable

Nature's Generator is one of the most versatile solar generators - adding the power of wind to its charging arsenal. Customers can purchase the turbine as part of a kit or purchase it as a separate add-on. You can use solar panels, wind turbines, and AC power, and the recharging speed depends on the strength of the sunlight or wind. But, for AC charging, it takes about 70 minutes to charge the generator to 80%.

UPS mode available

The UPS mode of the Nature's Generator is a complete power solution, and you can recharge your generator while powering your devices simultaneously. It can run power drills, CPAP machines, refrigerators, and much more. Unfortunately, there is not any straight information on exactly how long it takes the Nature's Generator to switch to backup power when the main grid goes out. This seems to be a pattern with Nature's Generator - really sparse information regarding their performance and feature claims.

Some models can charge Tesla cars

Nature's Generator claims that some of their solar generators can charge Tesla cars and other electric vehicles in response to customer inquiries. However, there is no real information on how effective it is.

Includes a carry cart

Nature's Generator includes a carry cart, and we can see why. Most models use lead batteries, and they weigh in at 120 pounds. Not something you want to just pick up and carry. Nature's Generator has introduced a line using lithium batteries that is lighter, but they haven't been out very long.

Prices somewhat high

Experienced hobbyists have noted that Nature's Generators seem to be overpriced for the parts, casing, and options included. Some note a recent price increase of several hundred dollars.

Transparency issues

While Nature's Generators look very lovely and are sold on a visually-appealing website, there are some issues with transparency. For example, the ridiculously short warranty (some are only warrantied for a year) has been tested, and customers complain of extreme difficulty in getting Nature's Generators to honor the warranty. The customer service reps demand that customers take pictures, videos, and go through a number of steps to try and repair the unit before they will even consider a return. Even when customers have sent the unit back for repair, months go by without hearing from the company. Customers are rightfully upset. The website and customer service emphatically claim that they are headquartered in Oxnard, California, but neglect to inform customers that they are actually a branch of Huntkey, which is actually headquartered in Shenzhen, China. This would help people to know that it may take longer because of time differences and distance alone.

Questions about long-term reliability

Several serious hobbyists have recently reported that Nature's Generators are non-functional within two years. For the high price tag, we would expect more. Some hobbyists and the solar generator community see this short life span as Nature's Generator selling "disposable” solar generators at long-term prices.

Below average

Nature's Generator has an expandable design that is a boon to people who have greater power needs, and the idea of including wind power as an additional option for energy is very innovative. But because the batteries are lead, Nature's Generators are very, very heavy. It is difficult to find accurate information about this brand, despite many positive comments from the website and third-party vendors. We would suggest waiting for a sale and getting the lowest-priced generator to try and see if you like it, if you're really gung-ho about Nature's Generator overall. But, the poor feedback from customers and other drawbacks keep this brand from earning a higher rating from us.

Bluetti

• Prices from $259 to $18,000
• Consistent discounts, free gifts, and incentives
• Loyalty rewards offered
• $39.95 monthly subscription available
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• Free shipping

Bluetti was founded in 2009, owned by Shenzhen Poweroak Newener Company and headquartered in Shenzhen, China. Bluetti is an acronym for Blue Sky, Technology, Tomorrow, Innovation. They are more well-known than other China-based solar generator companies that are operating in the United States and have a large selection of generators and solar panels on their website. The company designs and manufactures portable power stations, home energy systems, solar panels, and related accessories for off-grid living and household energy backup.

Prices vary but are consistent with other solar generator companies

Let's take a look at a couple of the solar generator models you'll find offered by Bluetti. The much-reviewed Bluetti AC200L Expandable Power Station with a solar panel was priced at $1,399 at the time of this review. This is an expandable power station with 2,048Wh capacity and expandable up to 7,577.6Wh with additional battery packs, ensuring extended energy for every need. With a TT-30 port and a D40 Voltage Regulator, it provides an all-in-one AC+DC power solution for an RV. Smaller, portable solutions like the Bluetti AC70, delivering 1,000W of continuous power, can power devices like hairdryers, blankets, and heaters through its AC outlets and costs $569, including a solar kit. Bluetti offers coupons and discounts consistently, and at the time of this review, the offer on Bluetti was a storewide discount for up to 50% off.

An influencer favorite

A quick look at the internet shows that Bluetti is a favorite among influencers and online magazines. We can see the appeal! The price point is not the lowest of low, but it is priced very competitively, giving the impression that these solar generators are higher-quality than the "bargain” solar generator companies. Influencers and magazine reviewers have reported that Bluetti solar generators deliver on their promises. However, it's important to note that these reviews are also reviewing the product right out of the box and are not long-term use reviews. Bluetti offers free products in exchange for reviews and all sorts of perks to those who will promote their products, so keep that in mind as you watch any Bluetti reviews.

Loyalty club rewards and discounts

The Bluetti Membership Program consists of 5 tiers: Starter, Explorer, Pro, Elite, and Master. Each tier offers unique benefits based on your total spending or marketing of their product through liking and following their social media platforms, posting about Bluetti, or sharing your personal information. The number of points you gain determines your membership level. For example, if you spend $15,000 to $30,000, you can become an elite member and receive the following perks: lifetime support, warranty coverage, early bird deals, bucks redemption, refurbished deals, exclusive offers, invitations to meetups and new product trials, early access to new products, as well as 3000 bonus bucks when you first upgrade.

Subscription available

Bluetti offers a subscriber service for around $40 per month. This is a good option for those who aren't sure they want to commit to purchasing a solar generator. The Bluetti subscription allows you to pay a monthly fee for an AC180 Solar Portable Power Station. You can cancel whenever you like and return it with no hidden fees. Bluetti will send you a shipping label (return costs on Bluetti), but you must return it in its original packaging. The Bluetti subscription includes a brand-new or like-new AC180 Solar Portable Power Station and a warranty for as long as you keep your Bluetti subscription for any issues that may arise, with the exception of user error or gross negligence. Be aware that if the solar generator is damaged, you may, depending on the degree of user fault, be charged for replacement components, parts, or shipping fees.

Shipping is free in the continental US

Free shipping is included in all products on the website, and you should receive your solar generator within 5-7 working days (except for presale items). Customers outside of the United States will need to shop on Bluetti's other country-specific websites. Bluetti does not ship to Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or the Virgin Islands and uses UPS or FedEx to ship.

Multiple shipments may cause issues

Bluetti utilizes different shipping options to save money, so you may not get your order in one shipment. In fact, many customers explain they have received their order in multiple shipments. This can end up creating more problems, as some customers have complained that they only receive a partial order and the rest never arrives. While this is a great cost-saving measure on paper, using multiple shipping partners for one order can create more problems than it is worth.

Customers sometimes don't get correct products

Beyond the delivery snafus, customers complain that at times, they don't even receive the products they actually ordered from Bluetti. It is such a prevalent problem that there is a space on the website to address the issue.

Refunds have restrictions

Bluetti offers a refund with return service available in the country of purchase. If the solar generator is purchased from the official online Bluetti store, they will immediately issue a refund and RMA as long as the solar generator is unopened and in its original packaging. If the customer purchases the item from Bluetti's distributors, they are advised to approach the distributor directly and take a chance. If the item is faulty, you can attempt to claim it under the warranty, but it might be difficult to convince Bluetti to honor it without incurring additional shipping costs of $200 or more for repair or refund.

An "F” from the BBB and customer service issues

The BBB assigns Bluetti an "F," and an examination of the numerous online customer reviews reveals why. While Bluetti has a phone number in addition to email support, the reports of complaint resolution are truly abysmal, from solar generators that arrive defective to multiple shipments that go missing. Other customers have reported that the solar generator works great at first but inevitably fails after a short period of time - well within the warranty period. Attempts to get resolution end in frustration and no way to get their money back. Other issues involve listing things as in stock, but then emailing after customers have paid saying they will have to wait because the inventory is depleted.

Bluetti fails to impress

We appreciate the price points, the as-advertised, straight-out-of-the-box performance of Bluetti's solar generators, and the innovative subscription program Bluetti offers. But, due to the horrible customer service experiences, poor long-term performance of the solar generators, as well as the many reports of customers being unable to get refunds or replacement parts for defective products, we cannot recommend Bluetti at this time.

Rocksolar

• Priced from $359 to around $1,000
• Free shipping
• Discounts offered
• Lightweight
• Can be charged using wind power
• Offers solar water pumps

Rocksolar is a provider of clean energy solutions, specializing in sustainable technologies designed to empower homes, businesses, and communities worldwide. They want to deliver reliable and innovative energy products that support a greener, more sustainable future.

Lightweight batteries

Rocksolar solar generators use a very light battery - at only 2.65 pounds, that is a very portable power solution. These very light batteries are also pretty powerful. Unfortunately, it takes a very long time to charge them.

Solar pump combination available

The Rocksolar Cottage Life Series is designed to be more than a power source. It includes a 24V 1/3 HP Brushless Solar DC Submersible Well Pump - a powerful water supply solution designed for solar technology. It can also operate a mini fridge, an LCD TV, lighting, and more.

Priced below $1,200

Rocksolar has very low prices, with the Weekender 80W 88Wh Portable Power Station listed at only $99, although it's an additional $75.99 for a solar panel and USB charger. Even the higher-wattage solar generators, like the Rocksolar Nomad Pro 400W 444Wh Portable Solar Generator Kit, are priced safely in the three-digit zone at $549, which includes a 100W solar panel.

Free shipping

Like many other solar generator companies, Rocksolar offers free shipping initially. However, if there is a problem with the unit, in almost every case, the customer will be responsible for return shipping.

Customers may face additional fees

The exclusions on the warranty are somewhat intimidating, with Rocksolar emphasizing that if they don't believe the defect is a manufacturing problem, the customer will be responsible for shipping, handling, tariffs, duties, taxes, and other fees. This requires the product to be returned to the place of purchase or a location requested by the company, along with the original sales receipt. Because Rocksolar isn't very clear as to where their headquarters are, some customers may be surprised with international shipping fees and tariffs.

Not recommended because of lack of transparency and reviews

The website and many reviews on the web would indicate that, for the most part, the Rocksolar brand is a pretty good generator. Unfortunately, there are reports that the company may encourage the deletion of one-star reviews. Other customers say that the generators stop working within months, and other customers complain that the products arrived defective. Reaching out to customer service can be quite challenging, let alone getting a solution to your issues. In addition, Rocksolar tried to use aggressive legal tactics to take a web domain name from a small business. They insisted they were a US company, but the court found that they were indeed located internationally and had not met the requirements of proof to proceed with a case. It should be no surprise, given all of that, to see that we recommend going with another solar generator brand. Rocksolar isn't a company we trust.

Nurzviy

• Priced from around $540 to $979
• Includes solar panels
• Free return shipping and a generous return policy
• App available

Established in 2022, Nurzviy says it's dedicated to the research and development, manufacturing, sales, and service of energy storage solutions, solar generators, and other equipment and systems. The name "NURZVIY" is a combination of "Nurture" and "Vivid.” (Doesn't that feel a bit like an AI-generated company name... that's just a bit off?)

Reasonable price, limited selection

While the Nurzviy solar generators are reasonably priced, there are only three options for solar generators on the website. The popular Nurzviy Solar Generator 500 Pro, which includes a 100W solar panel and is a 500W generator, is priced at $538. At the time of this review, there was also a discount code for 10% off. They also offer portable solar stations and EV batteries, so solar generators are only a part of what Nurzviy does.

Free return shipping - with caveats and not hassle-free as advertised

The return policy at Nurzviy is pretty generous, citing a 180-day return window, with Nurzviy covering return shipping costs. The only caveat is that the package must be unused and unopened. With regard to defects, it is a lengthy process to prove that your item's defect isn't somehow your fault. If the unit is opened and defective, you will need to cover shipping, which may be shipped internationally for repairs.

Clunky app available

Customers describe the Nurzviy app as "clunky.” It's also described as glitchy. There aren't many positive things to say about the app.

Underperforms overall, with possibly unreliable reviews

Honest reviews explain that while the Nurzviy solar generator was purchased at a good price, it does not charge as advertised and is truly a huge underperformer. There are customer reports that their honest reviews are deleted and that some positive reviews may have been unreliable. Numerous negative reviews are all consistent: the Nurzviy solar generator is not reliable, underperforms, and does not last beyond a few months. Plus, the return policy is worded to make you think you won't have to pay return shipping, but most returns are due to faulty equipment. This means the "unused, unopened” policy for free shipping on returns makes it highly unlikely you will qualify for it.

Not recommended

Nurzviy solar generators are reasonably-priced, but even at the lowest price point of around $540, it is enough for the consumer to deserve detailed and reliable information about the product and the company. Nurzviy's website offers neither. The only thing we can find consistently online with reliable reviews is that the Nurzviy solar generators don't perform as advertised, and the company makes it very difficult to return the product. We strongly recommend looking somewhere else for a solar generator.