The Jackery Explorer 500 is a portable power station that is extremely popular with folks who appreciate having a heck of a lot of mobile power in one easy to transport energy box. It has emerged as an innovative solution for those on-the-go who want to pair their outdoor pursuits with the comforts of modern living- electricity on tap to keep energy consuming devices on constant power during off-grid or backyard scenarios.

This portable power station boasts a battery capacity of 518Wh, with an inverter peak of 1000w, which allows it to charge a wide array of appliances, from low to mid-power draws, for extended periods. Its built-in handle and ergonomic design make it easy to transport, meeting the power needs of users on the go.

Not only is the Explorer 500 efficient, but it also incorporates intelligent charging and protection features such as its Battery Management System (BMS) technology and a 1000w surge inverter. This ensures the power station operates safely and optimally while offering protection to the devices being charged. It is an excellent choice for those engaging in long road trips, camping adventures, or simply preparing for unexpected power outages at home.

The Jackery Explorer 500 is so popular that even Jackery had run out of stock when I checked their website today:

Jackery Explorer 500 Overview

Equipped with multiple ports, the Jackery Explorer 500 offers connection versatility. The power station features one AC outlet, two DC ports, one car port, and three USB-A ports, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of device and appliances. Users can power items such as air pumps, CPAP machines, TVs, and mini-refrigerators and the usual standard of electronic devices , phones, speakers and tablets and the like. It can operate in colder temperatures down to -10 right up until a high 40 degrees.

In addition to its impressive power and wide range of compatible devices, the Explorer 500 boasts several recharging options. Users can recharge the power station using a wall outlet, a car outlet, or even a compatible solar panel for eco-friendly and sustainable energy replenishment. This flexibility in recharging ensures you will never be without power when you need it most.

If you want to charge it for free It can be charged in 9.5 hours using a 100w SolarSaga panel. Or you can charge it on the move from destination to destination via your car adapter in 7.5 hours.

Charging Method	Recharge Time
Solar Panels	9.5 hours
AC Power	7.5 hours
Car Charger	7.5 hours

RV Life

If you are a RVer you will love the ability the 500 gives you to charge your appliances when you’re off the grid. Charge or run your camping favorites like your electric grill, an electric knife, your lunch oven, your fan, a shaver, bluetooth speakers, blenders, LED lights, your phones, tablets, TV and more. Power on the go is sorted!

Because it can draw up to 500 watts of power you can plug in multiple devices at the same time and keep them going, as long as you don’t go over 500 watts. But you can plug in fans, lights and charge your electronic devices all at the same time without a hitch. So how about running your 100w slow cooker or powering your 50-100w mini cooler at the same time, as you charge your iPhone and charge your laptop and run your USB fan?

Then once you are parked up you can recharge the Jackery itself with free solar, or with your attached panels if you have them on the roof.

You also have the versatility of plugging into your car adapter, or a wall socket if there’s in one in a camping site. This is so handy if you like to camp or take off in your RV.

Stats

• Power Capacity: 518Wh, 1000w Surge
• Weight: 13.32 pounds
• Dimensions: 11.84 x 7.59 x 9.2 inches
• Ports: (1) AC outlet, (3) USB A ports, (1) DC carport
• Recharge Times: Wall Socket 7.5 hours, 1x SolarSaga Panel 9.5 hours, Car Adapter 9.5 hours
• 500 battery charge cycles to over 80% capacity
• Built in L.E.D. flashlight on side

Power Output and Capacity

Under the hood the E500 has a 518Wh (144,400mAh/24Ah, 21.6V) lithium battery with a total power output of 500 watts. This robust capacity allows it to power various devices without any issues. The built-in pure sine wave inverter ensures optimal performance and protects sensitive electronic devices.

Charging Ports and Outlets

The Explorer 500 is equipped with a range of charging ports and outlets for maximum versatility. These include:

• 1 * AC outlet
• 2 * DC ports
• 1 * car port
• 3 * USB-A ports
• Ports: (1) AC outlet, (3) USB A ports, (1) DC carport 1 x Anderson input
• Device Recharge Times: AC Outlet 7.5 hours, 1x SolarSaga Panel 9.5 hours (in optimal sunlight), Car Adapter 9.5 hours

There is, however, no USB-C port on this model. If you have a lot of USB C only devices this is not ideal. The cheaper Jackery 300 would be more ideal as it has USB C. Ports are limited so you wont be able to connect more than 4 devices/appliances at once.

The 500 also features pass through charging so you can power and recharge devices and recharge your 500 at the same time.

Solar Charging Capabilities

This power station can also be charged in 9.5 hours by solar power using the compatible SolarSaga 100W solar panel. By leveraging the power of the sun, users can maintain a continuous supply of power during outdoor trips or home emergencies. The power station comes with a high-quality MPPT charge controller that optimizes the charging process and maximizes solar panel efficiency.

User-Friendly Display and Controls

The 500 features an LCD display that provides clear and detailed information about the battery’s remaining charge and the current wattage input and output. The display comes with an integrated LED flashlight which is very convenient during nighttime use. The user-friendly controls make it easy to monitor and manage the device’s power usage.

Compatibility with Devices

The Jackery E500 is designed to provide power to a wide range of devices. With its multiple ports, including 1 AC outlet, 2 DC ports, 1 car port, and 3 USB-A ports, it can charge and run various low to high-power appliances that fall within its 500W power capacity.

Older iPhone 8’s can expect over 50 chargers but more recent phones can expect around 22.6 charges when using the Explorer 500. It can also power various devices such as laptops, tablets, CPAP machines, TVs, and fans. The power station is an ideal solution for those who wish to stay connected while on road trips, RV camping, or during emergencies at home.

To ensure compatibility, it is crucial to check your device’s power consumption. For instance, the Explorer 500 will not power anything that exceeds its 500W capacity. Check the power requirements of your appliance by checking the label or user manual.

Here are a few examples of devices and their estimated recharge rates with the Explorer 500 at 100% capacity:

• LED lights (5W): Provides 90 hours of power
• Mavic drone: Offers 8-9 recharges
• 12″ MacBook: Handles 7 recharges
• iPhone 8: Accommodates over 50 recharges
• More recent 18W Phone over 20 charges

For an optimal experience, it is recommended to pair the Jackery Explorer 500 with a compatible solar panel like the SolarSaga or a Twelseavan 120W. These solar panels are compatible and allow for seamless recharging of the power station even while on the move.

Outdoor and Emergency Use

When going camping or engaging in other off-road interests, the Jackery Explorer 500 solar station can be an essential accessory. The AC and USB connections will be ideal to keep your family connected and provide for your basic human needs as Maslow would put it, the hierarchy of essentials, food, warmth, cooling, or in today’s world connectivity.

It’s all not just all about entertainment neither as many people take solar generators like the 500 off road with them to power tools, lights, or laptops or film and medical equipment. This unit is a great asset for someone who works in the medical or emergency field, it can keep CPAP machines running, compressors, pumps and anything essential with a plug operating.

Battery powered generators are a lot safer to use, transport and operate than gas or diesel generators. They are also less noisy and produce no toxic fumes and can be charged with off-grid energy, or your cars battery.

For RV enthusiasts, the Explorer 500 becomes a reliable power source while on the road or at the campsite. Whether powering a TV, charging laptops, or running a small kitchen appliance, this power station can supply energy for a comfortable RV camping experience. Additionally, it can serve as a backup power option for home and RV use, providing peace of mind in the face of unexpected power outages and ensuring essential devices remain operational.

In emergency situations, the Jackery Explorer 500 can be indispensable. During power outages, having a portable power station on hand can make a significant difference, especially for those who rely on medical devices such as CPAP machines. Additionally, the power station can charge essential communication devices like phones and radios, ensuring users can stay informed and connected during an emergency.

To recap, the 500 serves as a helpful companion for outdoor activities and a dependable backup power source during emergencies, making it a valuable addition to anyone’s camping, RV, or home preparedness kit.

Design and Portability

The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an easy to move and store portable power solution. Weighing in at just 13.3 lbs, this power solar generator is easy to carry around, especially with its convenient built-in carry handle.

The Explorer 500 has a compact size, with its longest dimension measuring only 12 inches. This allows you to easily store and transport the power station, whether you are heading out for a camping trip, tailgating party, or just want a reliable backup power source at home.

Overall, the design and portability of the Jackery Explorer 500 is impressive, catering to outdoor adventurers, professional worksites, and emergency home backup solutions. The 518Wh battery capacity ensures that you can power a variety of devices and appliances for long hours, all within a portable and user-friendly package.

Jackery 500 Charging and Recharge Options

The Jackery E500 has several charging and recharge options, providing users with diverse ways to keep their devices powered. The following paragraphs outline these options in detail, ensuring optimal use of the power station and its charging capabilities.

One popular charging option for the Explorer 500 is to use a SolarSaga 100W solar panel. To do this, simply find the DC interface on the back of the SolarSaga 100W and connect it with the input of the Explorer 500. This environmentally friendly option allows you to take advantage of the free energy from the sun for recharging. It’s particularly useful when you already have the sun when outdoors, so you may as well make the most out of it and draw a consistent charge and keep your unit topped up for later use that day.

Another convenient way to recharge the Explorer 500 is through a wall outlet. This method is as simple as connecting the included adapter to a standard wall outlet, providing an easy and fast way to replenish the power station’s energy. It’s perfect for those who have access to electricity and want to recharge their power station within the comfort of their own home.

For users who require more on-the-go charging options, the Explorer 500 can be recharged using a car port. This method is ideal for travelers on long road trips, as it allows the power station to be charged while driving. To charge the Explorer 500 with a car port, connect it using the included car charger cable, ensuring the power station stays topped up during long drives.

In conclusion, the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 offers a variety of charging options, including solar panels, wall outlets, and car ports. These methods cater to different needs and preferences, ensuring that you can keep your devices charged in any situation. The versatility of the Explorer 500, combined with its ease of use and accessible charging methods, make it a valuable asset for anyone in need of a reliable power source.

Relatable Off-Grid User Experiences

If you’re checking around the big e-commerce sites and other review sites you’ll notice a few things regularly cropping up in customers feedback. There is a consensus that the 500 is especially useful for road trips and outdoor excursions. Many owners of this generator have taking the time to come back and relay their appreciation for its portability and capabilities to power essential devices during their journeys away from home and the grid.

One owner, who frequently goes boondocking in the back of their Toyota 4Runner, found the Explorer 500 to be an ever so reliable power source. Falling in the middle of Jackery’s portable power stations in terms of price and capability, the Explorer 500 remains quite lightweight and portable, making it suitable for various outdoor activities, from camping to boating.

image credit: campingnerd

Customers have reported using the Jackery Explorer 500 to power essential devices such as TVs, laptops, and CPAP machines. In fact, the power station can even be used to plug in an entire RV, providing power to outlets in the camper. Such uses make the Explorer 500 an attractive option to those seeking a portable power solution for road trips and wild/dry camp adventures.

While the Explorer 500 has received positive feedback, it is important to note that it may not suit every user’s power needs. If you want to run more power hungry devices and need a full scale home backup that’s going to power more appliances for longer, research and compare the rest of Jackerys models here to find the perfect power station for your particular needs.

Nevertheless, the E500 does remains a popular choice for many, offering substantial power in a portable package, ideal for those who love the freedom of the open road.

Who Will Love It?

Here’s just a small section of groups who will love the E500

• Campers
• Hikers
• Off-roaders
• RVers
• Musicians who need to power amps for street performances
• Kids- when you tell them you are going wild camping away from power grids
• Outdoor Workers
• Homeowners, as a small backup source- and out door power for parties
• Beach Goers
• Wannabe chefs- who want to go Al Fresco in a forest, garden or park

Summary and Final Thoughts

The Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station is a reliable and convenient power solution for outdoor enthusiasts and those in need of emergency backup power. Its compact design, combined with a mid-capacity battery, makes it ideal for various off-grid scenarios, such as camping, tailgating, working in the outdoors/exhibitions and power outages.

In terms of performance, the Explorer 500 delivers an impressive capability to power multiple devices simultaneously, thanks to its assortment of output ports. These include standard AC outlets, USB ports, and 12V DC ports, allowing users to charge a variety of electronics, from laptops to small appliances.

Furthermore, this power station can be easily recharged through solar panels, wall outlets, or even car outlets, making it truly versatile. Its robust and durable construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use, providing users with confidence in its long-lasting performance.

One noteworthy aspect of the Explorer 500 is its relatively lightweight design, making it highly portable for a power station of its capacity. This feature, combined with its silent operation, makes it a preferred choice among campers and other outdoor enthusiasts looking to minimize their environmental impact.

To sum up, the Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station is a well-rounded solution for those seeking a reliable, powerful, and flexible power source for their outdoor adventures or emergency backup needs. Its combination of performance, versatility, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any off-grid setup.

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