Jackery Explorer 290 Portable Power Solar Generator

Key Features of Jackery Explorer 290 Portable Power Solar Generator

The Jackery Explorer 290 is a portable power station with a 290Wh power capacity, designed to be lightweight, compact, and user-friendly. It features a durable handle that makes it easy to carry, highlighting its portability for outdoor activities or emergency power supply needs​. This power station is versatile, able to power small devices such as phones, drones, laptops, lights, TVs, and CPAP machines with ease. Operation is straightforward; it can supply power quickly with just the touch of a button, without the need for additional setup​.

One of the unique features of the Explorer 290 is its ability to charge up to four devices simultaneously, which can include a combination of a mini fridge, phone, iPad, and laptop. It offers a variety of recharging methods: it can be recharged via a solar panel in about 5 hours, an AC outlet in around 6 hours, or a car outlet in approximately 6.5 hours. For energy conservation, the power station is designed to automatically turn off after six hours when the power draw is below 15 watts​.

The unit’s specifications include a weight of 7.5 pounds and dimensions of 9.1×5.2×7.7 inches, making it highly portable. It is equipped with one input port (8mm DC) and four output ports, which include one AC output capable of 200W continuous and 400W peak power, a 12V car outlet, and two USB-A ports​​.

Additionally, the Jackery Explorer 290 incorporates a built-in MPPT (Maximum PowerPoint Tracking) module. This module optimizes the charge from solar panels by constantly monitoring their voltage and current output, improving solar recharging efficiency by up to 23%. The power station includes a pure sine wave AC outlet that can reliably power devices that require a clean, stable electricity supply​.

The combination of these features makes the Jackery Explorer 290 a versatile and reliable power source for a wide range of applications, both indoor and outdoor.

Specification

Performance

The Jackery Explorer 290 Portable Power Solar Generator appears to be highly regarded for day-to-day usage, especially in scenarios where portable power is essential. It comes with both AC and DC charging cables and can be supplemented with a separately purchased solar panel. The device is noted for being capable of charging several devices multiple times, which suggests a robust battery capacity and efficient power management​.

Its compact design is mentioned as being perfect for powering devices like laptops, TVs, phones, and more when camping or traveling. The generator can charge up to four devices simultaneously, such as a mini-fridge, phone, iPad, and laptop, making it a versatile power source for various electronics​​.

Users have found it particularly suitable for weekend camping, noting its capability to charge all phones, power LED lights, and even run a 12v fridge for 24 hours. It is described as lightweight and offers fast charging, which can be an advantage when time and portability are of the essence​​. Another user who had previously owned a larger model from Jackery, the Explorer 1000, praised the 290 for its sturdiness, portability, and ease of use, also noting its fast charging capabilities when used with a solar panel from the larger model​​.

The Jackery Explorer 290 offers 290 watt hours of power, with a 200W continuous and 400W peak output, designed to handle various portable power needs. It’s engineered with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which provides maintenance-free energy without the need for fuel or dealing with fumes, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use​​.

Overall, the Jackery Explorer 290 seems to be a reliable and convenient power source for daily activities that require portable power, particularly for outdoor adventures and as a backup power solution.

Pros

1. High power capacity (290Wh) suitable for charging multiple devices​​.
2. Portable and lightweight design with an easy-to-carry handle​​.
3. Multiple charging options including solar, AC, and car outlet​.
4. Built-in MPPT module increases solar charging efficiency by up to 23%​​.
5. Pure sine wave AC outlet for stable power to sensitive electronics​​.
6. Generally well-received with a high percentage of user recommendations​.

Cons

1. Missing accessories like cables can impact initial usability​.
2. Some users may require higher capacity for more demanding applications​​.
3. Does not include a USB-C port, which is a limitation for charging modern devices directly without an adapter​​.

Conclusion

The Jackery Explorer 290 stands out as a commendable balance of portability, power output, and versatile charging options. Its 290Wh capacity strikes a fine line between bulk and utility, making it suitable for a wide range of outdoor and backup power needs without being overly cumbersome.

From an expert’s perspective, the integration of an MPPT charge controller is a significant advantage, optimizing solar charging efficiency which is crucial for off-grid and eco-friendly power solutions. The pure sine wave inverter is another technical merit, ensuring compatibility with sensitive electronics—a feature not always guaranteed in portable power stations.

However, the absence of a USB-C port and occasional accessory issues are oversights that slightly mar an otherwise impressive device. The USB-C port, in particular, reflects a missed opportunity to seamlessly support newer technology standards.

In sum, the Jackery Explorer 290 is a robust, user-friendly power station with room for minor improvements. Its practicality in real-world scenarios, coupled with high user satisfaction, positions it as a reliable companion for both adventurers and those seeking an emergency power backup.

FAQs