AC2A vs. EB3A: Which Bluetti Power Station for Van Life?

[@OverlandOne]

I love my EB3A and use it for many things including running my 12 volt fans. I recharge it from my AC200P which recharges from solar. I can easily move it around my van so I do not need to have 12 volt plugs all over the place, I just place the EB3A near where I want to run something. I would not trade it for anything.

[@Emivioricomex]

Could I run a 100watt minni fridge for 24 hours with the EB34 with 100 watt or 200 watt solar panel in optimal sunny weather so like 10 hrs of sun??

[@mamalovesthebeach437]

Thanks Bob! We all come here for the straight talk.👍🏻

[@jerbir]

I just bought the EB3A because it was on sale and no idea what its capabilities are. My problem is that I have no idea how to calculate things like watts etc. like how long a charge lasts and how much will an appliance use. It is embarrassing to not understand stuff like this. But thanks to Bob at least I know I accidentally made a good decision.

[@vickicooper7424]

Me too! I just don't know how to calculate Wattage. I bought the best mini cook pot with the idea it's perfect to travel and eat well. But I don't know what size unit I need....I've been researching Bluetti...and am convinced better choice for me than Jackery.

[@deraid712]

just look at what packaging says 230Wh (Watts per hour) and look at the number of consumption of a device, for example Light Bulb says it has 10W meaning it will work 23 Hours with 230Wh power station

[@mazecentric4124]

I full time digital nomad with 2 - Eb3a's, 200W panel, and 400 W inverter. I use the inverter with the van running to charge the Eb3a's with 286W..instead of regular 12v 100 W. The two Eb3a's keep my Alienware laptop running for 9 hours. People usually charge their cells with the USB instead of the weak 15W wireless. I recharge them both daily...and am on year 3 with both units. BIG fan of Bluetti.

[@ImASurvivorNThriver]

Nice setup!

[@XCX237]

Ac2 sounds perfect for those have discovered that there is no need for much AC power unless you need all the toys. Kinda flies in the face of minimalism

[@wellyftw]

@@gildardo and you can use the powerlif feature to increase the inverter to 600w

[@Downsdddgh]

This was probably meant for those on cross country trips by car to power up their phones. Also for those back packing. Just put it in the bottom of your ruck. Not much extra weight. Perfect!

[@Winniebago]

Even if you have a full "normal" solar setup I highly recommend something like this. It's saved me many times both in and out of my camper.

[@fz.doomsday500doomed9]

Haven’t started my van life journey yet, waiting to start my online career soon as it picks up then I can start, but I like my EB3A. It works properly, light weight, and very quiet and energy clean. Thank you for your reviews on van life utilities and accessories. Love your channel and a happy Veterans Day to all our veterans 🇺🇸.

[@pursleydl2009]

I have a EB3A. Well worth it and just what I need dor my cross country travel camping in my vehicle. I love it's simplicity and versatility.

[@anitasimmons3599]

Thank you for taking the time to produce this video. 200Ahr, and 300W inverter will run a lot of mini appliances and for limited space in would be perfect if it is at the right price. Thank you for the video.

[@akowboyshippielife7405]

Much love to everyone and their families from a chilly Cedar City Utah USA currently! 🤠🙈🍄🥀🤠

[@daniellebeckers1912]

A nice evening from the Netherlands!😊😊

[@Berserk1Manga]

Ive been looking for one of these. Just bought the eb3a after seeing this video. Thanks Bob

[@arriagada1957]

The best friend of my solar is my Honda generator if the solar isn't enough that day my Honda will take care ...in 1 hr my ecoflow is back in business again

[@janetkoball44]

Thanks Bob for testing this new little Power station for us. I'm still hoping I can do at least some Nomatic life. I'm having trouble just 10 percent into the job. I'd like to have something a little bit more powerful than the one you just tested. See you down the road.

[@realmicrobet]

I have a Bluetti EB3A and am borrowing a VTOMAN 1000 and the Bluetti charges (I mean per KWH - not % charge) more than twice as fast on the same solar panel. I dunno if this particular VTOMAN is messed up, but it was unused. EB3A has been great.

[@debvoz]

I have a Vitoman 1500 and noticed the same thing so I'm pretty sure it's a Vitoman thing

[@lynnef3297]

Thanks for thr review, Bob. As always very thorough and thoughtful.

[@japanham5973]

The AC2 fits in many bicycle baskets, or held down on a back rack, and is great for cycle day trips or even a cycle overnighter. I have both the 2AC and 3A and each one has their own best uses.

[@aimreadings]

I love you man! Really and honestly appreciate you so much! 🙏🙏🙏🙏🧿🧿🧿 I don't know how... But suddenly so many things are coming together after 3 months of struggling to get my car ready... The universe is just helping me... It's true when they say when things are meant to be things just fall into place... It's happening right before my eyes! Things that were $400 or magically half their cost at just the exact time I needed it to be, things That have been giving issues are suddenly coming together, it's crazy and I'm so thankful for it all!!! I just purchased one of these and I absolutely NEVER thought anything like this would be in my affordability...🙏🙏🙏🙏🧿🧿🥳🥳 I hope to see you on the road one day! If things get together I'm coming to Nevada in September to the Red rocks!! 🤞🤞🤞🤞 That'll be my testing trip for everything, including my loving cat! I'm so excited I feel like I need to howl! Owe! Owe! Owwweweeee!!!

[@vincentfox]

I have one like this, mine is EcoFlow River 2 which this strongly resembles. Same OEM? When we have picnic needs for the day I can spin up the cooler in the morning, then the Little Guy is fine for powering the thing when parked for some hours at a tournament or whatever. I don't care one whit about the puny inverter I never use it! So cheap I can leave it in the van and not fret so much about it being stolen like I would with a bigger one. It's a day-tripper champ! Now for anything multi-day I would want a much larger unit. Glad they left off the stupid LED light function. I think these little units are great, buy one like it on Black Friday sale you won't be disappointed.

[@freedomwon2004]

I'm new to this battery pack market. I'm 62. Down to just 16 hours of work with my current employer. Budget cuts for us old-timers. Veteran. Service related medical issues. Don't and won't use VA. Rent is outrageous outrageous One more time Outrageous! When my lease is up it's 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee time. So...I know I'd like a 12v blanket or two. Charge my phone and tablet. A string of lights. Would these two units work? Thank you'll

[@anitasimmons3599]

Freedomwon 2004, Thank you for your service. It is truly disturbing that services are being cut for veterans. I am praying you will get the services you need, to live better into the future.

[@blakepoland227]

Sorry to hear of your predicament. In regards to your question, from what I understand most 12v blankets will use too much power relative to the small overall Watthours of these smaller batteries. You don't mention a small compressor fridge, but I'm imagining you'll be wanting that too unless you want to be eating 3 square meals in restaurants every day (a small fridge like the BougeRV would save a bundle over time, by comparison). In which case, like Bob says, the AC70 or EB70 would be a better choice for you, I would think.

[@mickeybrumfield764]

Good presentation, Bob. Keep up the good work.

[@wellyftw]

The AC2A has powerlifting to up the inverter to 600w, which makes it more useful. And it also has a UPS facility, which the EB3A doesn't, so if you have it plugged into the mains and the mains cuts out, any device plugged into it will run off the AC2A battery, so that's pretty helpful too! I've just got hold of an AC2A as it's going cheap on Amazon Prime Day which makes it more appealing.

[@dennisdelorme]

Not correct EB3A has UPS mode

[@janineivey03121]

I love my EB3A, and it’s really a great fit for what I need. I’m able to live very comfortably with my gadgets being charged.

[@sallyplus4]

Thanks again Bob. God bless.

[@lindaclarkrose]

Bob, I ENJOY your perspective!!

[@johntate5284]

I'm with you, i think the EB3A really can't be beat for the price. I have two of them and they have been in constant use for over a year and a half, but i use them as UPS's to keep the internet up during power outages. I also bought an AC2A to try out in the same role simply because it is fully grounded and for $164, it beats every small UPS system on the market in this price range with true sine wave and real LFP batteries instead of the crappy 2 shots and your done SLA batteries. Great real world review!

[@greagior]

Bob I agree completely with you on the eb3a

[@misterx2598]

Thanks for the review. I bought my eb3a a year ago here in Ukraine in order to survive russian-caused blackouts in my country. My apartment has a gas-boiler to stay warm in winter and to heat water in my bathroom, so this little station is an essential part of my family survival during constant power outages here. I wished it had have a bit larger battery for the same price though. However if I somehow deplete the battery too soon, I use my power tool Makita's batteries to expand its internal battery up to 50%. Unfortunately we have very little sun here in Ukraine in winter, so it's not possible to charge it from solar panels...

[@johnwillard6198]

I just bought a eb3a ❤

[@karinhart489]

Bet they are competing with the small Jackery 160. The flat top compared to the Jackery bump for handle is a big deal for fitting in a small vehicle. Not everyone needs wireless charging.

[@markbajek2541]

Can't be a serious contender without a light of some type.

[@beararms6945]

😂 a light on the solar generator? Your kidding right

[@kennethbailey9853]

Thank you.

[@jzplayr]

I've been searching for a few hours this morning...Jackery and other models. Yah the EB3A doesnt come with the car 12V charger...but....thanks for your accurate and enthusiastic review! Looks like EB3A is the way to go.

[@Chloe_Stella]

I bought the EB3A and a bluetti 200-watt solar panel. I left on road teip April 1. It did great until mid-June. Then the solar panels no longer worked, so I tried the 12 volt outlet in my car. The EB3A blew the fuse. I'm so disappointed.

[@jw3843]

From what I have heard it is basically small with cheaper parts for the lower price. It looks more like the ecoflow river 2 with the back handle. Knowing the price is at 179 release price and you can get a 5 dollar discount from some review channels. I think the regular price is around 200.

[@Buck_Jones1909]

Thanks Bob! Bluetti is my choice

[@jampam-jf8mt]

The two main alternatives to the eb3a are the Vtoman Jump 600x and All powers r600. Both 600 watts. The Vtoman is expandable to 939wh

[@randrowe9660]

Thanks for the review on the baby, baby Bluetti and as compared to the baby Bluetti. I have enjoyed my EB3@ and my ac 200 max. Recently I ordered the ps54 (at less than $200 I thought what the heck I can always give it to a grandkid!). I believe the ps54 is the Walmart EB55 clone. Hope you get to do a review on the Ps54. Thanks for what you do.

[@djdrillz863]

Bluetti should make an Eb3a Pro with a 536wh battery and upgrade the inverter to 800w.

[@blakepoland227]

They have. It's called the EB55

[@deedeetravels969]

Wow!!! Cool. I need bigger unit.

[@MrRizzo1961]

It's on Amazon now for $259 ✌️❤️

[@jampam-jf8mt]

The AC2A is similar price but has less features, no light, no charging pad, way smaller battery and half the inverter power. Why would anyone buy the AC2A over the eb3a?

[@thaik56]

Lighter maybe

[@hvaball150]

It's $149

[@gailresources3970]

Bob, thank you!!!

[@lavina58]

Nice video. Thanks Bob 🙌🙌🙌👍😊👌🍀🙏

[@disabledarmyveteran]

I own several Bluetti EB3A batteries and they work great except in really hot temperatures weather I would get an overheating error and it would not take a charge until it cooled down usually after dark when the sun goes down. I use mine for outdoor use inside of a 5 gallon bucket for water protection when it rains.

[@keithcharman4133]

I have an eb3a and it’s great. However the wireless charging is really slow , so I use a cable. I also don’t need the spotlight. Therefore the Ac2a looks like it would be an adequate replacement for me.

[@ajf5823]

I lose power a lot where l live and keep a fully charged EB3A to keep my phone charged and run small things like a fan. I also take it camping because it’s small and easy to recharge with my car. I can put it in my tent and keep everything l need charged. At $209 it was very reasonably priced and l bought a little 68 watt solar panel that can top it off.

[@doodlethebeagle2078]

Liked my EB3A so much I got a 2nd haha

[@joparks2509]

The EB3A is a nice unit. Considering the price, don't expect the quality to be that good. For what it's worth, Bluetti has great customer support. Their repair technicians though is another story.

[@Unchartedjourney]

@713, you said 204 AH, you meant to say WH. As always, thanks for all the knowledge you provide to the nomadic community.

[@njanderson4342]

Thanks Bob!

[@stevelambson1628]

Hey Bob, just saw the AC2A on Amazon for $259, with an $80 off coupon. So $179

[@ryanmiller4890]

The EB3A is as small as I will go.

[@Driftuner]

My EB7 runs my entire camper van all by itself, including the fridge, roof vent, diesel heater, 2 water pumps, all the lights and some other stuff. No problem at all...

[@Emivioricomex]

Would you know if the EB7 would run a 100 watt minni fridge for 24 hours, (plus maybe an electric blanket for 8 hrs) on a 100 or 200 watt solar panel in optimal summer sunny weather , so like 10+hrs of sun?? I got 4 kids and we want to go disperse tent camping for a week or two.. I'm trying to figure out what I need for running a minni fridge, that's all.. . We can't really afford those expensive 12v camping fridge.. Would u know if the EB3A would be sufficient with a 200watt panel??

[@Emivioricomex]

How much watts solar panels do you have??

[@jime9305]

No, sorry that would not be possible. If the fridge ran only 50% of the time, it would consume 1200w . The blanket about 100w an hour in addition.@@Emivioricomex

[@chetmack9640]

What if you was traveling by motorcycle or backpacking then wich one would you pick?

[@02532gary]

8lbs is still a load to bear after time but at the price with current $80 coupon it may be worth the try. Unit also has "power lifting" to surge inverter to 600W short term. Quick AC charge capability is nice as well as DC. Hikers and bikers next question is where can one purchase a micro / collapsible solar panel with useful output. Hmmmmm? I have the Bluetti AC180 for van living / home backup use along with gas generators. Love it.

[@anitasimmons3599]

For backpacking stick to small battery packs, 10,000 or 20,000mAhr. 8 pounds is more than 1/2 the weight of my backpack and non consumable gear...of course I am older, and verticality challenged...

[@paulkajtna7799]

Bob you mentioned taking in the car and charging it. I’m wondering if you or anyone has left it discharging, say a refrigerator in a car or van on a hot summer day; with the windows up most of the way. Will it stop when the vehicle interior gets to 40°C/104°F, the maximum operating temperature?

[@gzubeck3]

Weight...that's it! For someone who wants true portability. Problem is the negatives out weigh the positives so Bob is right in having a WTF moment. LOL!

[@williamhenderson2270]

Did Bob Misspeak? 700 Watt hours to run a fridge? Did he mean 700 Amp Hours? For example, I have an E-bike battery with 922 watt hours but only 19.2 Amp hours.

[@aussieallrounder6018]

It's a shame Bob hasn't responded to you. But he will. He's just testing an unpriced item given to him for free, with amazing results. God bless this man

[@blakepoland227]

No most of the batteries from Bluetti and other manufacturers list battery capacity in Watt hours for portable batteries, whereas vanlife installs (with component systems) tend to list in Amp hours. It is a bit confusing, as few reviews list both figures. But both give a sense of battery capacity

[@sandytthomas2667]

Love Bob

[@Liimpy]

My EB3A has bricked after 2 years. It's stuck at 100% , but it's not actually charged. It just thinks it is..

[@EcoNeighbor]

I wish I could try one.

[@Bluponi]

I think for portable power, you have to have a power station with 2400 wh minimum... This would be the ultimate to buy... you don't have to recharge it every day... BLUETTI Expandable Portable Power Station AC300 with 2 B300 Expansion Battery, 6144Wh LiFePO4

[@bobspamail]

With coupons it’s $179 vs $209.

[@mrbaddisLOST]

Looks like the new small one is geared toward people backtracking into the wilderness who want to carry a small power station

[@JeffErdmann]

I have a EB3A for use in my 2021 Prius to run my Fridge 12v 30qt. fridge when my car is turned off & it works fine. It looks like the new one does not have 5521 12v barrel plug outlets which is how I connect my fridge. I installed a female 5521 from my car so when the car is on it runs the fridge off the car & the EB3A is charging from my cigarette plug.

[@Emivioricomex]

Would you know which power station I would need to run a 100 watt minni fridge for 24 hours on a 100 or 200 watt solar panel in optimal summer sunny weather ,so like 10+hrs of sun?? I got 4 kids and we want to go dry camping for a week+ I'm trying to figure out what I need for running a minni fridge.. We can't really afford those expensive 12v camping fridge.. Would the EB3A be good? With a 100watt panel??

[@Emivioricomex]

How many watts solar panel do u have?

[@cherrymadden4936]

I got this 1

[@solarwind907]

Bob, things are gonna get rough. Climate change is heading us towards global food shortages. I think it’s a number of people who are forced into living in their vehicles in the US is going to skyrocket over the next few years. Finding work, even humble work, like guarding a Gate, it is going to get tougher. I just want you to take the best care of yourself as possible and prepare for some pretty weird times ahead. Thanks for everything you’ve done and all the best to you!

[@SolarPunk80]

I Guess less is more but sometimes less is less? I have been collecting some low wattage appliances, below 500w, but really what I am finding hard to resist about the Ac2a is the handle design, I might get it, 😅😅

[@cassiewhite8058]

What do you think of the bluetti ps54 537 700watt ??? Its online thru walmart for $187 rn and im curious if thats a good one

[@watchhobbie6002]

At the moment it’s 259$ minus a 80$ coupon plus an extra 2% off = 175.42

[@SKSK-rz7br]

I have an EB3a along with an AC180... For me a great combo ... cant see the point of that ac2

[@K_Dawg1979]

I think you ment to say 204 watt hours 200AH isnt bad at all....

[@Frank-James]

Maybe the price will be a pleasant surprise to us all!

[@johnq6123]

What are your thoughts vs Ecoflow River 2 (@ $169.oo w. solar cable included)?

[@cherrymadden4936]

Bought it online at lowes

[@vlacroix7329]

I’m going car camping for two months this summer. There will be some days where I can plug in my power source to recharge it, but overall I will need to get at least 48 hours of continuous use for my cooler/fridge. What power source and fridge/freezer would you recommend?

[@blakepoland227]

I've done this for some time. The BougeRV is a great portable compressor fridge at a reasonable price. No freezer compartment though. The bigger Dometics that have both are much much more expensive. I think Bob is right that you should consider the AC70 or EB70 as your minimum. I've been running a BougeRV fridge with a Yeti 500x (with 505Wh) (a well made but dreadfully expensive battery I would not recommend) and it's mostly ok but on some hot days with less driving I've been caught short. But note that I have an electric car that I sleep in with utility/camp most most nights so that means I can recharge the Yeti each night to compensate for any loss during the day while it was powering the fridge. That's a rather unique setup that has allowed me to use a much smaller battery than I would have needed otherwise, and that won't apply to most of you.

[@kathleendittmer2447]

Has bluetti fixed their watts display issue? The big one i bought two years ago only shows watts in 20% increments. Other companies products show exact watts left.

[@blakepoland227]

yes they're moving all their displays over to percentages (rather than increments) it seems...

[@ilovelalakers]

I’d call it Lithium Iron Phosphate, instead of life po 4.

[@bensonsspeedshop1191]

👍👍👍👍

[@jonnyr839]

Hi! I’m thinking of getting a bluetti, but I’m a musician and will be recording in my van, and I’m wondering how loud the fan noise is? I’m thinking of getting ac 100 or 200 if i can, but concerned about the possible fan noise. Any suggestions for other silent ones?

[@blakepoland227]

You will need to do your research, as not all reviews cover that aspect. Note the EB55 and EB70 use a large external power cord brick with its own fan that is very noisy, whereas the EB3a and AC70 have this integrated into the main compartment and are much quieter. The newer Bluetti's also have a "silent" AC charging mode that will not activate the fan, that can be set using the Bluetti app.

[@SuzanneWho]

What can this power being so small?

[@02532gary]

Depends on your situation. With such a small footprint it might fit the bill most for those who need portability, DC capability, and low weight versus longer term, higher draw, AC use. Small car, SUV or van type use for DC lighting, small fans, heating blanket, phone recharge, etc... Anything using a small draw of power will be able to utilize this quite well for a lengthy period of time without quickly recharging from AC, solar, or car lighter. At full 204W/100% capacity it would run my 4W LED lights for days and a couple of my small 5W fans as well. Heating blanket would certainly go for 24-48 hours based upon model/size and DC draw. AC appliances are a different story but the unit does surge to 600W inverter capacity for short period of time. It all comes down to the price you can afford. If you can afford more - get more is kind of what Bob mentioned. I went with an AC180 for my needs - conversion van with plenty of room and home use during outages. But I consider this a nice tailgating, soccer game electric blanket, picnic, out door activity use, or even as a short term small apartment/dorm room backup during an outage.

[@cherrymadden4936]

How do I hook up the solar panel

[@tailoredsuits]

ADVICE please. I could really use some advice on what portable station to buy. My budget is around $500.00. I live in a condo and would like to power a TV, my computer, Wi-Fi, a light, husbands Cpap machine. Small appliance for 10 minutes. Fast charging. Definitely will add solar panel later on. It’s winter here not a lot of sun. After researching, I feel LifeP04 would be better option for longer lasting cycles. I’m down to three different brands but I’m open to any recommendations! It’s Black Friday sales! Eco flow river 2 Bluetti AC70, Oupes 1200. I had a Jackery in but they are sold out of the 700w. Can anyone tell me the best bang for my buck? I’m thinking at least 1000w even though I will only run out at half capacity. Might be good to have the extra in case power is down longer. The power company does forced power outages. Last one was 2 1/2 days. We also get a lot of ice and people crashing to the power poles on our steep road.

[@blakepoland227]

The Bluetti EB55 would probably be sufficient and is about the price point you're looking at, as long as the noisy external charging brick doesn't bother you. For $150 more the AC70 would be a much better purchase, if you can swing it.

[@marilynrenaud1892]

Thank you Bob.👍

[@mikewilson9236]

Because cellphones stay charged 12 straigjt hours now

[@Vanrchy]

A 1000 amp hours to run a fridge? I’m so confused I thought I would be able to run mine off 200 amp hour battle born lithium battery:(

[@Datzneat]

I think he misspoke and said amp hour instead of watt hour. This new unit is 17 amp hours. Your 200 amp hours is fine to run your fridge.

[@lancestar9217]

If the price is around 125 I would know why they made it! 🤔anything higher then 🤷‍♂️

[@Earthgal1964]

👍🏻😎

[@cherrymadden4936]

Mi e was 209

[@agr8h2o]

Both are too small. Realistically, 1500 wH is the minimum needed.

[@Emivioricomex]

Would you know which power station I would need to run a 100 watt minni fridge for 24 hours on a 100 or 200 watt solar panel in optimal summer sunny weather ,so like 10+hrs of sun?? I got 4 kids and we want to go dry camping for a week+ I'm trying to figure out what I need for running a minni fridge.. We can't really afford those expensive 12v camping fridge..

[@gailresources3970]

Maybe for you. Others have various needs. I love that Bob knows that and shows us multiple options.

[@milescoleman3150]

Bought a Bluetti EB3A a year ago on this channels recommendation. BIGGEST piece of shit I ever bought. Used it less than 6x to charge a phone or laptop. It sat fully charged most of the time...took it camping and plugged a phone in..Fault code saying short. Searched on you tube and found out its NOTORIOUS for shorting out. Called Bluetti.."oh sorry out of warranty by 2 days". Thanks for helping me waste 250$ Maybe next time check into what you recommend. Soured me on your channel FYI.

[@zee9er]

He has me wanting an eb3a right now haha

[@kidcymucks]

Check out the Allpowers R600 "Beige" for comparison to EB3A. I have both and preder R600. Quiter, can actually run a 600 watt load, and UPS function performs flawlessly

[@zee9er]

Eb3a doesn’t have 3 prong outlets?

[@DeliberateNRandom]

$180 on sale now. I got my Bluetti PS70 last Black Friday for $200. It's lithium ion and not LiIFePo4, but it's a 700Wh unit for cheap. I've been happy with it, so far.