Best Solar Powered Phone chargers
1. BEST OVERALL SOLAR PHONE CHARGER
BigBlue 3 Solar Charger
PROS
- Charges multiple devices with three USB-A ports
- Large panel surface when unfolded
- Lightweight and portable
- IPX4 rating
CONS
- Can’t store power
- Only USB-A ports
Our experts love how easy it is to unfold this lightweight solar phone charger and expose its four panels to the sun to charge your GoPro, iPhone or Bluetooth speaker (just be sure to check your device is compatible). In our tests, a drained iPhone XR was charged to 27% percent in just 30 minutes of full sun! Three USB ports allow you to charge multiple devices at once, making this a great pick for a family camping trip. If heavy clouds pass over, charging will be paused but will restart when the sun is shining again. Our only caveat is that this charger can’t store electricity, so you’ll need daylight to keep your devices up and running.
2. BEST VALUE SOLAR PHONE CHARGER
Blavor Solar Charger Power Bank 18W
PROS
- Four USB ports, including USB-C
- Flashlight and compass kit included
- Wireless charging capabilities
- IPX5 rating
CONS
- Smaller solar charging surface area
- Bulkier than some solar panels
This do-it-all device is a battery pack, dual flashlight and compass and includes four USB ports, including one USB-C port for faster charging. In addition to being able to charge multiple devices at once, it also offers wireless charging if your phone is Qi-enabled. At just under seven inches, this portable solar charger is small enough to pack in your backpack, so toting it along on your next outdoor trip is a no-brainer. It also has an IPX5 rating, and in our testing, we found that it was rugged enough to handle exposure to light rain. Just remember to fully recharge your power bank via an outlet before heading out for your next adventure since the solar charging option isn’t as speedy or reliable.
3. BEST SOLAR PHONE CHARGER POWER BANK
Anker PowerCore Solar 20000
PROS
- Two USB ports, including one USB-C
- IP65 rating
- Three lighting modes and dimmer
- Sleek, compact design
CONS
- Slow to charge
- Learning curve for controls
The Anker PowerCore Solar charger was created with outdoor enthusiasts in mind and has an IP65 rating that will stand up to the elements. In our tests, we found that even when the charger was exposed to a little dirt and water, the functionality of the device was still fully intact.We also like that there’s a flashlight built in for dark nights. You can charge two devices at once via USB-C (like your Apple Watch) or USB-A, and though it’s recommended to fully recharge the power bank before heading out on a trip, you can always recharge with the solar panels as a backup. In our tests, an iPhone XR went from zero to 4% charge in 30 minutes of sun.
4. BEST PORTABLE SOLAR PHONE CHARGER
Nekteck 28W Solar Charger
PROS
- Affordable
- Two USB ports to charge two devices simultaneously
- Large panel surface
- Includes zipper pouch for storage
- IPX4 rating
CONS
- Can’t store power
- Included USB-A to Micro USB cable not compatible with every device
Nekteck’s 28W solar panel tops our list as an excellent, affordable solar phone charger for your next adventure. It expands to more than 32 inches unfolded and comes equipped with two USB-A ports, meaning you can charge two devices at once. It’s also extremely lightweight and can easily be attached to a backpack with accompanying clips so you can charge while you hike. What our analysts love most is the included zippered pouch that helps keep cables and devices securely inside while you’re on the move. Though we like how the included micro-USB cable can charge compatible battery packs or cameras (you’ll want to check your device’s setup), you should bring your own USB-A cable to charge your smartphone and more.
5. BEST SOLAR PHONE CHARGER KIT
Goal Zero Venture 35 Solar Kit
PROS
- Includes power bank and solar panel
- Three USB ports, including USB-C
- Waterproof IP67 rating
- Integrated flashlight
- Panel includes kickstand
- Compatible with other Goal Zero solar panels and power banks
CONS
- Expensive
With a waterproof IP67 rating, this solar panel and battery pack combo is one of the most rugged picks you can find. To charge the battery pack just attach it to the included solar panel and adjust the kickstand to the best angle for optimum charging, or top up at home before you head out. We love that the solar panel, when folded up, is a little larger than a sheet of paper and just over one pound, striking the perfect balance of portability, durability and wattage, according to our engineering director.
In our tests, we were able to get two full charges on an iPhone 11 from the Venture 35 power bank, and it took eight hours on a very sunny day to completely charge the power bank with the Nomad 10 solar panel. According to Goal Zero, the Venture 35 will charge a smartphone about three times, depending on your type of phone and charge status, but if you want more recharges or the option to charge a USB-C laptop you can upgrade to the higher-capacity Sherpa 100PD. Best of all, if you don’t feel like carrying the power bank with you, you can leave it at home and use the solar panel to charge your devices.
