There has been innovation that pushes us away from non-renewable energy, here we have solar energy as a very suitable environmental alternative for the charging of phones and other electronic devices.
Now, this innovation has become so prevalent that you have to make a choice when picking the best solar chargers for phones. I am here to help you through the process.
In 1883, a strange revolutionary charger was released into an electricity-run world. Prior to that time, we depended on electric chargers.
France was the first country to seek out a solar battery charger alternative. In 1883, scientist Charles Fritz created the first solar battery charger in France. This groundbreaking innovation paved the way for the modern solar battery chargers of today.
In the US, the first modern solar battery charger was created by Bell Laboratories in 1953. The idea of using a clean, natural, and efficient energy source as an alternative to a less eco-friendly one seemed like two birds killed with a stone.
After this, it gained enormous acceptance.
Times have passed and innovations have developed. Here are the best solar chargers or phones.
Table of Contents
Best Solar Chargers for Phones
Finding the best solar chargers for phones is like looking for a needle in a haystack. Solar chargers for phones come in different shapes and sizes. To get the best solar chargers for phones for your needs, you need to keep in mind the factors below.
1. Best Charging Speed – Ryno Tuff Portable Solar Charger
Did you know that your location, the sunlight intensity, the season of the year, and the design of the solar panel can affect how fast your solar charger charges your device?
However, despite all these factors, Ryno Tuff Portable Solar Charger charges super fast.
High-efficiency solar cells are needed for the speedy charge that you want. And Ryno Tuff Portable Solar Charger has just that.
In addition to charging multiple devices at once, your solar charger must be able to charge them quickly. Due to this fact, you should make sure that you ascertain the maximum output of a product before you pay.
For instance, a 21-watt solar charger will charge your phone faster than one with 15 watts. So, go for a solar charger for phones that support quick charging. The Ryno Tuff Portable Solar Charger is a 21-watt charger and can charge your phone in as little as 2 hours. It can even charge your phone up to 33% in just 30 minutes.
It provides 2.4 amps per port and a maximum of 3 amps when both ports are active. when most channels cannot charge two phones at once.
It is compatible with iPhones, Android phones, tablets, and smartwatches . 2 USB ports and is compatible with USB devices. It gifts 1 micro USB Cable and carabiner hooks for hanging them on your backpack and tent.
Together with its fast charging, Ryno Tuff Solar Charger has an automatic off feature. It will automatically stop charging when it senses that the device is fully charged or the device is overheated.
At 16 ounces, Ryno Tuff Solar Charger is maximum power in a compact way. It is lighter than other brands and at the same time, powerful. Getting the same 21 watts in only 3 panels.
It has protective pockets against rain or sudden fall. The 600D waterproof PVC canvas material will protect your solar panel when backpacking, hiking or traveling.
The price of the Ryno Tuff Solar Charger at the time of publication is $62.99.
And the icing on the cake – with every purchase of a Ryno Tuff Solar Charger, a tree will be planted for you through the National Forest Foundation.
Con
- It is not shade-tolerant during the charging process.
2. Best Portable – BigBlue 28W Solar Charger
I would advise you to get a lightweight solar charger since your priority is your phone. This is because the best solar chargers with more charges tend to be bulky because of the panel’s weight and size.
However, the arrival of BigBlue 28W Solar Chargers begs to differ.
BigBlue 28W Solar Charger is so light that it weighs only around 24 ounces – a couple of ounces less than its 4-panel counterparts.
You can hang it on your backpack while hiking and its wide panels can catch the direction of the sun. It is made easy to carry for any outdoor activities such as camping trips, fishing, and climbing.
It also has great charging speed – has much larger solar panels, giving it up to 28 watts of solar-sucking power.
It has an ammeter built in so it tells you the charging current.
There are 2 USB charging ports. Thus, can charge 2 devices. And gifts a micro USB cord for charging.
It has an output of up to 5 volts.
However, remember that solar chargers unlike solar chargers cannot store power in themselves but must directly charge a device. However, it can be used with a power bank.
BigBlue 28W Solar Chargers possesses a water-resistant polymer fabric and IPX4 waterproof panels that protect your solar phone charger and your phone from occasional rain or wet fog. However, the USB ports and ammeter are not water-resistant. The water-resistant pouch keeps your devices safe and covered while camping.
The current price at the time of publication is $58.61. And a 2-year warranty guarantees your money.
Cons
- This may not the best choice for overcast conditions. You may have to consider this.
- Overheating could be an issue in the pouch.
- It is slow at charging but it will get you there since a phone is your object.
- The Ammeter can be hard to see or read in direct sunlight.
- ‘A charge will start only when all 4 solar panels are exposed to the sunlight’, warns the user manual. If all 4 are not exposed fully to the sun then the unit won’t charge, it can prevent it from charging or slow it down.
3. Durability – Goal Zero Nomad 50
Solar chargers can last a long time, depending on your frequency of use. That is, it’s not unusual to find products that last up to six years.
The first thing to consider when it comes to the durability factor is that you’ll need equipment with sufficient ruggedness to withstand the elements. Rain, sun, and the occasional wind. Since even the best solar chargers for phones need sunlight, and the strongest sunlight is outdoors, this must be a prime factor in your choice.
Therefore, make sure you choose a solar charger with a good IP rating.
The Goal Zero Nomad 50 is a four-panel solar charger that has been built for weather resistance. The product is very rugged, which makes it well-suited for use at the campsite, on the road, in the backcountry, or anywhere else you need the option to generate power.
The Goal Zero Nomad 50 has a tough water-resistant fabric casing all over it, folding the solar cells and panels inward when it is closed. Like this, it can withstand some water drops and splashes. This casing also protects it during travel and after use.
Rugged is the word. It is designed for die-hard adventurers. The hanging loops allow you to strap the panel to vehicles and tents.
The features include built-in charging cables for use with Goal Zero Yeti Power Stations, Sherpa Power Banks, and USB devices. There is also an integrated 8mm cable that lets you chain additional solar panels for faster charge times. 2 USB charging ports, and an output voltage of 12 watts. Also, there are four ports included but you will buy a cable yourself.
It gives a warranty of 12 months. Weighs 16.2 ounces (460 g).
Currently, the Amazon price is $139.60.
A classic feature is that it is possible to chain multiple Nomad solar panels together for faster charge times, something you don’t see in many products.
I always boast about onboard USB ports because this seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised at how many midsized solar panels don’t come equipped with a USB port. And that makes you limited to using them with a power station of some sort.
For a professional who needs reliable gear while traveling in remote places or for emergencies, selecting Goal Zero Nomad 50 is a smart move. It is a little on the expensive side, but it is worth it in the long run.
Con
- It is a bit expensive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this guide on the best solar chargers for phones that I took you through is worth your consideration if you want the best. However, you may make your choice based on one or a few of your most important factors.
3 Best Solar Chargers for Phones – FAQs
How does solar phone charger work?
They need sunlight to work but will work less efficiently in cloudy conditions. A solar charger unlike a solar power bank cannot store power so must be directly used with a phone or power bank. Connect them using a recommended cord.
How long does it take a solar charger to charge a cell phone?
With a good solar charger and direct sunlight, it takes between 2.5 to 3 hours on a 5W panel.
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Precious Okafor is a digital marketer and online entrepreneur that got into the online space in 2017 and since then have developed skills in content creation, copywriting and online marketing. He is also a Green activist and hence his role in publishing articles for EnvironmentGo