For those who love to hit the road or the high seas with their tech in tow, the portable power station has become an essential piece of gear. Today, we’ll look at two popular models from Jackery, the Explorer 290 and the 300 Plus, and break down their features and capabilities to help you decide which might be the right addition to your next outdoor adventure.
Jackery Explorer 290: Compact Powerhouse
The Jackery Explorer 290 is designed for campers, fishermen, and any outdoor enthusiast needing a reliable off-grid power option. It’s a small, efficient power station with a 290Wh (20.3Ah/14.4V) lithium-ion battery. You can recharge it in various ways including solar, wall, and car options, and it features an integrated MPPT controller for improved solar charging efficiency.
Jackery 300 Plus: Lightweight with Enhanced Capabilities
On the other side, we have the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus. It’s incredibly portable at only 8.27 lbs and boasts a 288Wh capacity with a robust 300W output. This model is aimed at those who need a bit more juice to power drones, cameras, and other essentials while exploring off the beaten path.
Head-to-Head: Technical Specifications
| Specification | Jackery Explorer 290 | Jackery 300 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 290Wh (20.3Ah/14.4V) | 288Wh |
| Lifecycle | 1000 cycles to 80%+ | 500-1000 cycles |
| Charging Methods | Solar/Wall/Car | Solar/Wall/Car/USB |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs / 3.4 Kg | 8.27 lbs / 3.75 Kg |
| AC Output | 200W continuous, 400W surge | 300W continuous |
| USB Outputs | Two USB-A | Two USB-C (up to 100W each) |
| Charging Time (Wall) | Approx. 5.5 hours | Approx. 2 hours |
| Warranty | (2+1) Year | 3+2 Year |
| Operating Temperature | 14-104℉ | -10 to 40℃ |
| Smart Display/Battery Management | Yes/Yes | No/Yes |
Charging Efficiency and Options
Both power stations offer solar charging, though the Explorer 290 requires the 100W SolarSaga panel and about 5 hours to charge, while the newer 300 Plus model can replenish its energy in around 9.5 hours using compatible panels.
Wall charging is significantly faster with the 300 Plus thanks to its higher input capability, taking just 2 hours compared to the Explorer 290’s 5.5 hours. Car charging is also available for both, and the 300 Plus adds the convenience of USB charging options.
Portability and Usage
The 290 and 300 Plus models both feature an array of ports for connecting devices, but the 300 Plus steps up the game with 100W USB-C ports, offering faster charging for USB-C devices. Both are relatively lightweight and portable, making them easy to take along wherever power is needed.
Safety and Battery Management
Jackery takes safety seriously with both models including Battery Management Systems for voltage control, temperature control, and short circuit protection. However, the 300 Plus employs a cutting-edge lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, known for longer lifespans and better safety, especially in terms of thermal stability.
Warranty and Support
The Explorer 290 comes with a 2-year warranty with an optional extra year if you register on the official site, whereas the 300 Plus offers even more peace of mind with a 3-year warranty, extendable to 5 years upon registration. This is indicative of the confidence Jackery has in the longevity of their newer product.
Final Thoughts
Both the Jackery Explorer 290 and 300 Plus offer robust features and reliable power for adventurers, but your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs. The 290 is great for those who prioritize a budget-friendly option without compromising quality, while the 300 Plus caters to tech-savvy travelers who need faster charging, a longer-lasting battery, and greater overall power.
Leave a Reply