Do Solar Power Banks Really Work?

[@georgeseriani2482]

I'm very glad you did not have to form voltron because frankly I'm not sure you would know just how to control it's path of destruction.

[@RandoTechInfo]

George: I appreciate your concern and trust me, the other pilots and I do not take the forming of Voltron, or it's powers, lightly. That said, we have gotten pretty good with our control and our collateral damage statistics are way down as of late. You have nothing to fear. Thank you for watching citizen.

[@pooljunki1]

Lol

[@AlanSpringer2074]

Same here. This dudes awesome.

[@nicc2366]

@@RandoTechInfo what’s the link for the power bank?

[@gillesrobinsbienaime7792]

What's Form volton?

[@QuantumBraced]

It has four 1.5W solar cells, so in total a 6W solar panel, which means in reality it gets about 5W under optimal conditions. The battery is 96 Wh, so it should take around 20 hrs of direct sunlight to charge fully. In the US on average you get about 5 sun hours per day, so it should take 4 days to charge, but being overcast/sub-optimal conditions might push that to 5-6 days which is in line with your findings. But that's to fully charge the battery. To get ~13 Wh which is the average cell phone battery size should be doable in one day or at least get 80% if it's overcast, and that's not too shabby for how big the thing is. Also, putting a solar panel behind a (clean) window reduces efficiency by 50%, even worse if it's double pane or a tinted windshield. It also reduces how much direct sunlight can reach it throughout the day, especially if you're not putting it right up against the window, so that's why you hardly got anything with that approach. I think this is a very cool product, but in reality you wouldn't use the solar 99% of the time when you're near civilization, yet it adds 30% more thickness and some weight. If you go camping or expect to be away from outlets, then you can buy a separate portable panel like the 21W Anker or 28W Big Blue which will give you a lot more power. So it makes more sense to get a regular power bank and just bring those portable panels with you when you think you might need them.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Thanks for sharing that information and your thoughts. Your idea about using separate portable panels is sound but they can be a bit more expensive (BigBlue for example is going for $63 on Amazon) and they don't have the added functionality of the power bank for stored charge. What's nice about this product is you can leave the power bank behind to charge while taking your phone with you. Don't get me wrong, I love the idea of using separate solar panels as well. I just think both products are better suited for certain situations. Thanks for watching!

[@drzoidberg1]

Great post. Re: separate portal panels, since this is the same price as a similar sized power bank, I would just get this AND hook up the other panels for extra juice. Win-win right there I think.

[@unbroken1010]

@@drzoidberg1 but how would you connect the panels to the power bank do they make panels that attach through USB C can you make any recommendations

[@unbroken1010]

So I can buy a separate tunnel to hook up to the battery charger how does it connect through a USB C any recommendations would help what's your recommendation for the best solar charger that also has a plug for plugging in things like appliances I can be a little more expensive like under 200 I think I was looking at something called the lion cub go but seems like there plug-in had some problems I don't know if they fixed it or not

[@drzoidberg1]

@@unbroken1010 usually the small fold up panels have their own connectors on the side of the power bank. For the larger panels you plug them into the input usb-c or micro-usb on the bottom of the power bank. I suspect most banks will allow simultaneous charging from the 2 input sources.

[@theghostcore]

And on the seventh day the power bank rested... and it was good.

[@RandoTechInfo]

😆👍

[@professionalamateur1549]

For some reason your picture makes that funnier lol

[@d.l.jtransport9146]

Lmao 🤣 😂

[@andresciahooten9598]

So it rested like God 🤔?! 😂😂😂

[@lauratatsch1066]

This panel can put out close to 100 watts kzbin.infoUgkxOqI2yqX0XVrhR2BMJciTWrHJpG8FhJyg when positioned in the appropriate southernly direction, tilted to the optimal angle for your latitude/date, and connected to a higher capacity device than a 500. The built in kickstand angle is a fixed at 50 degrees. Up to 20% more power can be output by selecting the actual date and latitude optimal angle.The 500 will only input 3.5A maximum at 18 volts for 63 watts. Some of the excess power from the panel can be fed into a USB battery bank, charged directly from the panel while also charging a 500. This will allow you to harvest as much as 63 + 15 = 78 watts.If this panel is used to charge a larger device, such as the power station, then its full output potential can be realized.

[@RandoTechInfo]

I hope you like it.

[@genjiglove6124]

This is, like, the only helpful video on all of KZbin that I could find regarding solar power banks. Thanks!

[@RandoTechInfo]

GG: Happy to help. Thanks for watching!

[@relaxingsounds2526]

it takes 8 hours to charge, Not worth

[@wingmanalive]

I've owned at least half a dozen power banks and I was always interested in the solar. I bought one that had 5 total panels and here's my $.02. They will NOT charge under indoor lighting so don't try. Also don't try and charge them indoors next to a window like this guy did. They need full direct sunlight and a lot of it. They are a doomsday device only and not intended for everyday use. I bought one for my daughter's bug out bag.Great for camping and such but not for the power hogs.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Wing: I agree with most of your points. Outdoor charging is definitely the way to go if you are trying to make use of the solar panels, but don't forget if you are a power hog you can always just charge it with a cord. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and thanks for watching.

[@letsprayandfasttogether9618]

The first thing you do when you bug out is get rid of the phones 📱

[@nogo7277]

@@letsprayandfasttogether9618 do you not listen to music?

[@letsprayandfasttogether9618]

No Go only worship music. But the government won’t be tracking me down. Vaccines/mark of the beast have quantum dot tattoo, that will track you and track who has been vaccinated. They will use your phones too. They are already building camps just like the Holocaust. Go look up fema camps. We are in the end times, going to be a time when you leave everything and go into the woods or follow Jesus Christ

[@nogo7277]

@@letsprayandfasttogether9618 well they do track you by your phone location, buuut that was possible a long time ago. also quantum dot? i know you are pretending to be delirious but uhh... no.

[@largelarry2126]

I have the same one in your video and it works well if it's in full sun and is maximized. Something to keep in mind is that most glass has UV protection and will stop or reduce charging of any solar device.

[@suezbell1]

So... trying to charge one on the dash of the car wouldn't work?

[@tjmmcd1]

Thank you Randy for a rare, totally unbiased evaluation. Well done.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Thank YOU for watching!

[@benthorne4148]

Good no-nonsense video. I have the AddAcc version, (7.5W) coupled with an Anker 21W panel that connects into it via the microUSB. As most powerbank batteries are 18W I’m pretty sure it’s not getting the full 28.5W I could potentially be capturing, but between its own 5 cells and the large Anker cells I can charge the whole thing from flat to full in about 9hrs. I’m lucky to get a full day of direct sun as I face south and am on the south coast of the UK so have slightly less cloud than the rest of the country. Today I’ve just used the Anker panel on its own to charge a separate 21500mA power bank from 0 to 75% in 5.5hrs. With the power I collect in the AddAcc solar bank and the separate Ravpower bank I charge my phone, iPad Pro, Apple Watch and air pods overnight where necessary and have essentially removed all of the devices I use all day for work from the ‘grid’. They’re all super-low power devices I know, but it’s a start. Any power left in the AddAcc gets used to top up the Ravpower bank and then it goes back outside first thing in the morning. I carry the Anker panel with me too so I can charge power banks in the car (laid across the dashboard), at work (works well in a window, unlike the AddAcc unit, we also have a roof terrace I can use) or even on the beach. If Anker can produce a battery unit that fits in their large 21.5W panel and has a digital readout displaying charge percentage and power input/output then I’d be absolutely all-in.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Ben: Wow. I admire your commitment to this. I have flirted with getting some panels. I think if I'm going to get serious about solar that will be my next step. Thank you for sharing and for watching!

[@OnusBones]

I believe I have this same model, but it is only one part of my portable / backup power solution. I almost never use its attached panels (maybe good for 5W); instead I connect it through an adapter to the same much larger solar panel (100W-200W) that charges a portable power station. This device can charge my phone, UV-5R, razor, and other USB devices, plus charge NiMH and Li-ion batteries; the portable power station can run a compressor-cooler, charge tool batteries, and run other larger lights and appliances.

[@MiMiOrt]

YES!!! You Sir, won a subscriber. I was searching for a detailed video and this is the best I have found. After a strong snowstorm and NO power for several days, I really appreciate this very well explained video. Thank you.

[@RandoTechInfo]

MiMi: Thank YOU for watching and for the sub! Glad you found it useful. Stay safe out there.

[@Fit.For.A.Firefight.]

I can’t seem to figure out why anyone would look to a pocket sized solar bank to help them during a friggin snowstorm where there is no sun.

[@AlphineWolf]

I picked up a single panel solar power bank. My purpose is a little different. People in our group each picked up a single panel one so we can go an entire day without having to use another power bank. The solar keeps the power bank topped up with trickle charge solar the entire day. It lasted me and my friend the entire day. We were doing pokemon go the entire day in the summer for an in game event

[@RandoTechInfo]

Wolf: Good idea. Glad it worked out! Thanks for watching.

[@MrRockstar1968]

It's best to have the panels at an angle to face the sun rather than having it lay flat on a windowsill or table, this enables the panels to collect more sun.

[@mattc825]

Exactly.

[@MNDashcam]

People seem to forget that it's not only phones that can be charged off of these things in a bug out scenario you can charge weapon lights or regular flashlights radios all sorts of other equipment I even have a USB chargeable lighter that is excellent for starting fires. It's basically just a coil with induction heating but it's a renewable resource that I can continue charging up off of one of these things and not rely on lighter fluid or bow drills or anything else. You can't expect wall power off of a couple tiny solar panels so I think a lot of negative reviews come from people who aren't realistic in their expectations. If you have a lot of your equipment that runs off the same 18650 batteries or other rechargable batteries and you have a USB charger, you can continue using that equipment long after the power grid goes down and generators run out of fuel. Most of the stuff that plugs into your wall is just a box with a step down transformer that usually bumps it down to 12 or less or 5 or less volts and basically anything that is going to be running in the 5 or less volts can be USB chargeable.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Nate: I think you hit the nail on the head about expectations, and if the grid ever did go down it's a heck of a lot better to have something like this than nothing at all. And while the technology is far from perfect it's not really that expensive. I am definitely willing to pay a couple of extra dollars for the added functionality. Thanks for your thoughts and thanks for watching!

[@jackhazz5777]

This solar powerbank is like the Poweradd power bank with 4 panels. It weighs a pound. I left it by the window in direct sunlight here in California, so you can imagine how much sun that is. I planned to leave it for a week to see if it will fully charge since the instructions says 50 hrs of sunlight to fully charge it. Before this, I charged this a few times using a wall charger and used it. It worked as it should. It still had 2 bars in it when I tried to solar charging. The indicator showed it charging when the sunlight hit the panels. Then I totally forgot about it. Over 3 weeks later, I remembered to check it and the charge went up to 3 bars. 3 weeks to up the charge to 3 bars from 2. Blah.

[@RandoTechInfo]

I'm actually surprised you got that much charge out of it. I have never been able to get any charge when trying to charge inside through a window. Thanks for sharing.

[@markmayotte301]

@@RandoTechInfo Thanks for making that comment re charging through a window. I have an older solar charger (POWER NEWS 300000 mAh capacity that I purchased several years ago and then never used really. I have had it sitting in my window for a couple of years and every now and then I see if it will charge my phone - it never does. I thought I had a bad unit, but your comments make me think like it may work but really needs to be in the direct sun (for solar charging). Thank you.

[@RandoTechInfo]

@@markmayotte301 Happy to help.

[@ObamaoZedong]

I've used one of those for the last two years of full time boondocking. It's come in handy as a backup to my solar system but it doesn't really charge up all that fast, maybe one full phone's worth when angled toward the sun on the longest day of the year in the desert. Recently the battery started to fail such that it would take forever to charge and then it would discharge far to quickly. Over all they're gimmicks and not meant for regular use.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Not Friend Eater: I think it's a little bit harsh to call it a gimmick but I agree you would not want to use the solar panels for consistent, fast charging. I also agree it would probably work best in the desert. Perhaps I will take a drive and do another review. 😆 Thanks for watching!

[@rhoodj]

Those solar charger system do not have a long life. Not for regular use. Emergency or a trip..

[@mikey13b]

Thanks for the info. So probably best to go with a stand alone solar charger with a stand alone power bank for long term consistent use

[@wagemawagema4618]

I have a regular Power bank which works very well with any phone. However, i would'nt recommend a solar power bank as this device could take your phone a couple of days to charge while a Regular power bank only takes a day to fully Charge your device. Just a thought.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Wagema: I would agree except you can use a solar power bank the same way as a traditional power bank. It will change with a cord. The solar panels just give it some versatility (at the cost of a little extra bulk.) Thanks for watching!

[@mihaiomc]

Because solar panels generates electricity from UV (not necessarily sun light) when you tried to charge the power bank from indoor, behind the window, most of UV where blocked by the double glazed window... that's why it did not charge!

[@RandoTechInfo]

Correct. I have addressed this in videos I have done since this one. Most of the photons get reflected. Thanks for watching!

[@dmitryru53]

Thank you, Rando, for this video. Really well done and I was able to understand all. It seems this type of device is just made for my aim: long-distance cycle touring when sometimes I can stay at some organized camping ground and some time at wild camping sites. So it permits to maintain the power bank at least partially recharged while traveling between two AC provided sites.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Thanks Dmitry. I'm glad you found the video useful. I feel like your use case is really what these type of products are designed for. Take care and happy cycling!

[@juliamarcotte7812]

Hi, did you do the recommended first charge for 5-6 hours using regular electricity? That's what some of them say to do. It might have affected your results. Thanks for the video. It's always good to know how different settings affect a product.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Julia: Good question and yes I did. Thanks for watching!

[@sharonbraselton4302]

wrón use up first chred reduce charge dusscharge cyckes

[@tahajidedes5567]

Seems like one would only fully charge this once. If hoping to use when power is out it's extra panels are really of no use after the first time because it would be being used daily not once every 8 days to let it charge to full again.

[@RandoTechInfo]

tahaji: What you are saying is not wrong, but I also think the scenario you present is not the product's intended use. You would not want to use this as an only source of power for an extended period of time. (You are correct that would clearly not work.) It is simply a way to get some additional/free power when away from home or an outlet for a few days. To use your example, if you lost power, and were able to get some solar charge, you might get an extra couple of days out of it, as opposed to a battery that had no panels. Solar energy is not in place yet to replace a lot of major power needs, but I do think the supplemental power it provides can be useful in the right circumstances. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and thanks for watching.

[@vBDKv]

I charge my 15000mah battery bank with an xdragon 20w solar panel in 4-6 hours depending on the sun. This is in Denmark, where the sun dont shine all that much compared to some placed in America. I'm pretty happy with that amount of free power. Keeps my phones and stuff charged up.

[@RandoTechInfo]

I recently made another video with 65 watt solar panels and I was pretty impressed with their output. Thanks for watching!

[@sharonbraselton4302]

goód enough

[@mrtordse9042]

i was planning on getting something like this because im going to camping in the woods for 2 weeks straight (army/military service) but then again its most likely gonna be cloudy all the time, its cold like -10 to -20 celcius and in the woods probably wont really charge the powerbank at all. So i think it just means no phone after my other powerbanks go empty with ultra power saving mode maybe in a week.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Mr Tordse: Those temps are gonna kill any and all batteries and power banks. In the scenario you will be in, I'm not sure how helpful the solar functionality will be. If you are out there for two weeks you might get a LITTLE extra juice from the solar but I certainly would not count on it. Thank you for your service and good luck out there.

[@Joshmakey12]

I had gotten a 21w big blue solar charger and it almost fully charges my phone in 30 min. I have an iPhone 8 plus and it can charge a power can't alongside with the phone. Much better than the feob solar power bank which is similar to the one your testing.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Josh: Good to know. Big Blue makes good stuff. Sometimes more expensive though. Thank you for sharing and thank you for watching.

[@blomkillen]

Does it not destroy the battery to charge with that much watts?

[@Joshmakey12]

@@blomkillen the usb 3.0 outputs have a maximum output of 5 watts. The solar charger I have comes with two usb 3.0 ports.

[@blomkillen]

@@Joshmakey12 You can fully charge with 5 watts in 30 minutes from empty? I am new to this

[@charleshead4445]

Hi Randy. I purchased this exact device last week. It is June and we have had some very sunny days. I left the solar charger opened in the direct sunlight for three days. The charger started at two lights and by the end of the three days, it was still at two lights. The device appears to work in every other way apart from charging up in the sun. The device was flashing indicating it was charging. Do you think it is faulty or was 20 hours of direct sun not enough to raise the indicator by one light? I suppose it could have gone from 50% up to 74% and the light not change up to three lights. If these devices had a better way of showing how charged up they were then you would know how much charge is accumulated in the time that you left it rather than thinking the thing is broken. Any feedback would be welcome.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Charles: I totally agree with you about the light situation. The lack of a numeric readout is an issue. On my unit the lights flash sequentially while it is solar charging. Is yours doing the same thing? If it's not, I would say you have a defective unit, if the lights are flashing sequentially then maybe give it another day or two. That's my advice for what it's worth. Please update me on your situation if you figure anything out. Thanks.

[@mikey13b]

Hi Charles do u have an update on your unit?

[@ranbymonkeys2384]

So would you recommend the thing?

[@leonas3840]

I think it's good enough for an emergency phone call or for camping .like how it can be carried discreetly like a phone

[@stephendemille5424]

Awesome video… but just take into consideration that ur window has insulated glass in it which resists the heat from in

[@aaroncarbon518]

I have the single panel version an got to say it let me down big time, I spent 8 nights out in a heat wave. Took it out fully charged it worked for 1 an a half days. An that was it it was literally in direct 20 odd degrees of beaming sunshine an maybe got 2% out of it. It doesn't look broke or there are no lights to signal that its broke.

[@RandoTechInfo]

No banks that I currently know of can charge fast enough to keep up with steady use. For that you would need larger panels. The technology is certainly still far from perfect. Hopefully in the next few years solar panel efficiency will improve. Time will tell. Thanks for sharing.

[@allennolden8735]

Never put these in direct sunlight over 85 degrees. I've had 4 of these with different options. I made the mistake with my first one. The unit swelled and was on the verge of exploding. I believe many of the manufacturers recommend indirect light for charging.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Allen: Wow. That's crazy. I have charged my power Banks in heat well over 85° many times and I have never had something like that happen. I guess I'm lucky. Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us and thanks for watching!

[@allennolden8735]

@@RandoTechInfo yeah I've replace three batteries now in my power banks. Then my cell phone battery just recently swelled from direct sun. Split the phone in half. I had to rebuild it. You have definitely been lucky. Hope that luck keeps up for you.

[@rimabdallah7050]

Though aren't they ineffective when exposed to indoor sunlight?

[@RandoTechInfo]

@@rimabdallah7050 You are correct. You get basically no charge indoors.

[@allennolden8735]

@@rimabdallah7050 they can work on indirect light through windows on hot days. They don't charge as fast but less likely to swell from extreme heat.

[@clevelandexplorer2221]

I'm sorry, I'm really confused. You laid it out each midday giving you three hours of light in the summer + guessed 8 days would make it an accumulated 24 hours total to charge? :S also I didn't see if you tests whether the quoted mah was correct? I tried watching it a few times :s thanks for sharing

[@gotsm9959]

No you have to have a proper external solar panel with more wattage then Total wattage capacity of the battery inorder to charge said battery efficiently. Solar power is important but dose not and can not replace the grid. You are better off to wait for hydrogen generators which will be very expensive but more realistic then replacement for fossil fuels.

[@puchibamba4801]

Well the instructions do say not to depend on the solar system for "phone ;) " charging but that it's there in case of in a emergency when you have no way to charge your device. So one would not or should not have to wait many days for a full charge but to get just enough power to be make a short call vs not being able to make any calls at all with a dead phone.

[@puchibamba4801]

Forgot to mention in black outs the led lights last a hell of a long time also the usb can power a 12v usb fan when the AirCon or outlet fans have no power to cool you off. You would be good with light and a breeze to spare :) People may be like oh I'll just use the led light on my phone, but it's dead with all the social media stuff and calls one did all day long. So in a situation like that we pull out the "brick"

[@RandoTechInfo]

Puchi: All good points. I see it the solar charging capabilities as a back up or an additional way to charge, not something to use on the daily. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and thanks for watching!

[@exploringgreeks]

if you consider that in greece we have your kind of sunshine at least 50 times more it would be logical to assume the powerbank would charge in a days time !?

[@RandoTechInfo]

I don't think so. Even with MAX sun, I'm guessing it would take multiple days to charge. If you do pick one up though, come back and let us know how long it takes to fill up. I'm curious.

[@philipaubin4679]

I believe that glass blocks some light, so it would reduce the effectiveness of the solar panels

[@RandoTechInfo]

Phillip: Big time!

[@bahhaziz]

The idea is good to have a power bank that charges with solar light, but so far none of these compact ones does charge in a reasonable time

[@RandoTechInfo]

They aren't very fast, that's for sure,but it can be better than nothing. Thanks for watching.

[@popscola2574]

Cool video. In your opinion what is the best top 5 solar banks on the market? Is there a practical option between 200 to 700 dollars or will I be getting junk? I'm new to this type of device but looking for a good device for emergencies? Thanks buddy.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Pops: Not sure about a top 5, I can give you a top 2 though. I do really like the power bank I used for this video. It still works like new and the fact that the "extra" three panels are detachable is a really nice feature. (And something I didn't mention in the video.) Here is the Amazon link: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07V2CQVV3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 A less expensive, but still really good choice, is the Tranmix Solar Power Bank. It's missing a USB-C charge port and the extra panels are not removable but for under $30 it's a nice value option. I did a full review of this one if you want to check it out. Here is the Amazon link: www.amazon.com/Charger-25000mAh-Tranmix-Waterproof-External/dp/B07W54NM91/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=tranmix+solar+power+bank&qid=1611416606&s=electronics&sr=1-4 Hope that helps. Thanks for watching!

[@sharonbraselton3135]

Wrog new jude20b700 doer buy bug ascsoarvcell and ax onverterr

[@sharonbraselton3135]

Solarbgertitrfirygratvoricr

[@nickwhite9209]

Just wanted to say thank you... I just ordered one and this is the ONLY vid I found explaining the solar charging of these chargers, thanks bro

[@RandoTechInfo]

Nick: Glad I could help and thanks for watching!

[@Funcentric]

Thanks for taking the time to perform the test and sharing it. I guess the answer is no. If it takes days to charge a bank, that's terrible and completely not practical for any sort of usage. It seems like it would make more sense to charge the phone or devices directly through a solar panel vs taking 6 days to charge a bank and then another hour to charge the phone/device.

[@RandoTechInfo]

I tested that as well if you're interested. kzbin.info/www/bejne/en-xepeZbahkb9E

[@raheempradesh7742]

Thanks for the review was quite helpful. I just bought the XTorm solar charger with XTorm 20 000mAh powerbank, but have to say it is not ideal combination for tracking cause 20k mAh powerbank is too long and doesn't fit well with charging cable on into pocket on the back of the solar panel. If your usecase is to have it with you on a track and you want to have you power bank placed into pocket on solar panel is better to buy XTorm 10k mAh powerbank or some shorter and thinner powerbanks max 160 mm in length. I am planning to test the charger in winter conditions on snow and I am quite curious how it will be efficient in low temperatures and when sun trajectory during the day is quite low.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Cool. Let us know what you find out!

[@deanp2105]

That's it, charge it up on your mains, top it off with sunlight when out and about.

[@spiderpig5842]

The heat from direct sunlight would destroy and degrade the battery significantly. Solar powerbanks are extremely slow because of the small surface area of the panels and is inefficient.

[@thegiantfinds]

they fully charge with 48 hrs FULL sun exposure....meaning not just 2 days

[@3737dandelion]

thank you very much! i am new to all of this and found your video very helpful! once the solar bank is charged, how long will it keep the charge?

[@RandoTechInfo]

It will depend on storage temps and conditions but I can go months between usage with very little lower drain. Thanks for watching!

[@lifeisagame2023]

Hi , wondered if the technology has improved much last few years?

[@RandoTechInfo]

It doesn't seem like it, at least not on the front end. There do seem to be some recent advances when it comes to the recycling of larger panels but that's all I really know about.

[@lifeisagame2023]

@@RandoTechInfo still not sure if it's a good investment, I have 3 none solar portable chargers already

[@RandoTechInfo]

@@lifeisagame2023 I think it depends on your use case but it would be a lot more useful to a lot more people if they can improve charging efficiency.

[@kendalmyers9445]

In short, I believe they do work. No they dont charge your phone as fast as a regular charger but they have good battery and a led light. Plus some of them are even waterproof and drop proof. I have a 4patriots one and I love it.

[@RandoTechInfo]

kendal: Thanks for sharing and for watching!

[@pm6513]

Can it power up using inside lights in house ? Also what’s the cable for ?

[@RandoTechInfo]

No. Indoor lighting will not charge it. The cable is for attaching the bank to whatever device you want to charge. Let me know if you have any other questions.

[@foxielady1740]

simple , clear , informative , well delivered,,,,thank you for your energy !!!

[@RandoTechInfo]

Thanks Foxie. Appreciate that!

[@ahaveland]

Remember with solar panels, area doesn't lie. Allow 3 W max per 12x12 cm square or per sunpower cell.

[@johngifford7725]

I just got my "winlove" branded solar power bank. It looks identical to yours, except the red trim bits. I'm looking forward to playing with it. If a person is relying on the solar to keep their devices running, a minimum use strategy on the devices will help extend battery life and these small solar panels may be more viable. Just a thought.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Agreed.

[@Leik2487]

Thank you helpful video, can be send to fix if no longer take a charge with the USB electric charge? Thanks my no more only solar charge i think

[@RandoTechInfo]

I doubt it. I don't even think they make the model I had in the video anymore. Wish I had better news.

[@Leik2487]

@@RandoTechInfo Ok just want to know so there is not repair shop for yet ,just use the solar than it comes with it? You think it may be one in the future? Thx

[@RandoTechInfo]

@@Leik2487 Honestly it would probably cost more to fix it than replace it.

[@Dethflash]

THANK YOU! This is the information i needed to know about solar power banks before deciding if im going to buy one. Im going to get one since i do enjoy camping, and its either sunny or raining here. All the videos i watched before seeing your amazing review, they just spewed out some tech spec opinion pieces but they never bought any solar power bank to test for themselves.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Dethflash: I'm glad you found it useful. Thank you for taking the time to share that and thanks for watching!

[@TheCoheedIndeed]

I wonder how many phone charged it would take to recoup the initial cost of the device itself. I like the idea of solar to save money but not sure if this would save me money. Hmmm

[@RandoTechInfo]

I do not feel like it is necessarily a money saver. The solar charging just isn't quite fast enough for that. I just feel like the solar panels add some nice utility for not a lot of EXTRA money, if that makes sense.

[@AarronS]

Excellent review. Thank you sir. I liked and subscribed.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Appreciate that. Thank you for watching!

[@CarenWeb]

I have the Be-charming power bank you demo'd. It's been in a sunny window for 5 day and still has only 1 light. It seems like a long time to charge this. I appreciate how long you demonstrated you had to charge yours. Can I just plug it in to charge it or is it just for solar charging. Thanks for the video. It helped me alot.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Caren: Yes you can plug it in for faster charging. Good luck!

[@lachhmanlohano2460]

Great video. Kindly advise how it will charge on SUN. I kept it many times outside for charge in SUN but it is not charging.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Lach: Then I would say it's broke. Can you return it?

[@rainbowjudy8020]

Curious to know can one use this to power PA equipment? I experimented with a 20000 power pack and a 48v phantom power (USB) device to see if it would provide power to the adapter. I plugged in a condenser mic and plugged into battery pa (15w) speaker. Need to know if this would work for "Busking". Worked well inside. Should work outside approximately 4 hours. Will find out in the Spring. But Does the solar unit provide on-going supply? Or is it only an emergency provider?

[@RandoTechInfo]

Judy: I have never used a power bank in the situation you are describing, so I can't really speak to your questions about the PA equipment. As for your last question, it's more the latter. The solar charge you get will not keep up with the kind of draw you are talking about. If you charge it while using it, you might buy yourself a few extra minutes but nothing significant. Hope that helps and thanks for watching.

[@jnauttube]

It appears these panels are not removable, which is a shame. I have the older model with removable panels which is quite ingenious. It dramatically reduces the bulk of the unit-- for times when you're realistically not going to use the solar charging, but the integrated panel is still there if you you still want some passive charging when you're out and about with it. I don't know why Blavor removed this option.

[@RandoTechInfo]

The three extra panels are in fact removeable on this model. (Didn't actually figure that out till after I made the video.) I agree all multi-panel banks should have this option.

[@party7norix]

I have Blavor solar charger too. Totally 5 solar panel but charging in house at window side is actually even spent 7 days, it does not charge anything. Hope it can charge by direct sunlight at outside. I still does not try yet for it..

[@RandoTechInfo]

Nori x2: Indoors defiantly a no go. I windows just reflect too much of that solar goodness. Thanks for sharing and thanks for watching!

[@jayfox9736]

I love the Greatest American Hero Box Set in the back!!!

[@RandoTechInfo]

Great show. Wish they'd remake it.

[@rokaspetr]

Can this thing can charge other devices not only phone

[@RandoTechInfo]

Rokas: I wouldn't try to charge a car battery with it but it should be able to charge any type of portable device, like a tablet or headphones, just fine.

[@ElloAir]

I have this power bank and use it every day to save on my electric bill. It was a gift and helps me cut down on using my smaller appliances and my electric bill.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Glad you are liking it!

[@ranbymonkeys2384]

@@RandoTechInfo Well if you paid $40 for it you have to use the whole battery (charging the phone 5-6 times for the whole battery) 2000 times to make your money back so charging your phone 10,000 times you will break even that's how much money you are saving. That is at 20 cents per kwh which is pretty high. The battery completely charged takes .135 kWh of energy at 20 cents for 1 kWh.

[@bodax6161]

Great Video! Thanks! I took cheap solar bank 1 panel replaced original battery because it got puffy with some old 3.7 phone batteries 2 of them run in parallel. And works well for what it is. And found the cell phone batteriez do better in heat! Thanks and good Luck!

[@RandoTechInfo]

BO: Glad you liked it and thanks for watching!

[@firstpersonstudios5514]

i love this! Nice job with the annotations (*not phone) xD Funny, informative, honest review. 👍Great job.

[@RandoTechInfo]

FPS: I was having some serious brain fartage that day. Glad you liked my solution and thanks for watching!

[@Kathy_Is_Blessed]

I like the idea of this! I am looking for something like this to charge my phone and my re-chargeable 8” fan in case of power outage. I live in Tx so summertime electricity longish outage is unbearable without a fan. I usually keep my phone charged to at least 75% as well. Questions I have are: 1. if I understood you correctly I can also just plug this into my electric outlet and charge it up fully? And just use the solar panels in an outage situation? 2. If I charge it up to max capacity do you know how long is typical for it to stay charged up? Will it lose its charge? 3. My phone and fan are the only items I have that I can charge. Should I get a smaller version of this or would this be better. (I check my fan to see how well it is holding the charge every 3 or 4 months and it is doing great). 4. Do these things know when what is plugged into them is at capacity and automatically shuts off or do I have to watch for this? Thanks so much for the video and for your help. 🙏 I’m an older woman who doesn’t understand all this sort of stuff, lol.

[@RandoTechInfo]

K H: I am happy to help and will answer your questions in order. 1. Yes, you can charge through an outlet just like any other power bank. 2. Since the max capacity of this bank is so big it will keep a significant charge for a long time, and by long time I mean years. 3. Honestly I would probably get the bigger one. Mechanical items, such as fans, tend to use more power than electronic items, in addition, while the solar charging does work, it is slow. A larger battery would help mitigate that slower recharging time. 4. It won't shut off but most devices are "smart" enough not to over charge so I wouldn't worry too much about that. Hope that helps. Let me know if you have any more questions and thanks for watching.

[@Kathy_Is_Blessed]

RandoTechInfo- thanks so much for answering so quickly! Appreciate that and your expertise very much.

[@RandoTechInfo]

KH: happy to help.

[@g1expert102]

I don't know if power banks operate at 100% efficiently I think its closer to 90%

[@boxmanatee]

This is going to be neat in southern Norway in the summer! Sun doesn't set "properly" and there is almost never cloudy or raining!

[@fenwickthompson99]

2-3 Days with a usb-c cable, assuming constantly plugged in the is 48-72 hours, that is a crap charging rate

[@sharonbraselton3135]

Wrong it's fast solar Haring we Ned ore Sar El some 6 panel 9 panels 9 solar panel charg f as yer

[@johnmonk66]

I got two with built-in lights, one is always in my window, one always on my car dash, this way I always have a light when I need it.

[@RandoTechInfo]

John: Good idea. Thanks for watching!

[@sharonbraselton4302]

plug solar power bank car dmadoter keep car barer chared up

[@tonytyler6755]

They do work, you just gotta get one built with quality parts!! You get what you pay for.. But yeah I’m a Extended Black-out situation they come in handy with keeping ya phone going, plus other small to mid size devices

[@dacentabaal]

Would you say my indoor grow light (red light, blue light and UV light) would charge this up as it gives off the same lights source as the sun? I live in a flat so no garden, my mom's got a little grow area in a corner with a watering system and small rechargeable fans to make the plants get a more natural thing going, if I propped this up under the lights would it charge up the panels you think so we could plug the USB fans into the battery pack to save some electric on main charging?

[@RandoTechInfo]

Lucas: To be honest, I am not sure. That is a great question. Returns are pretty easy on Amazon. Perhaps get one and try it out? If you do, and you don't mind taking the time, come back and let me know how it goes. I am really curious. Thank you for watching!

[@KnivesSurvival]

I will be getting a few of these. I am also interested in a Bluetti battery bank but they are very expensive.. i will also doing reviews on the solar chargers

[@RandoTechInfo]

Knives: Good luck with your reviews. My power bank reviews haven't had a lot of traction, just the videos about how they work. 🤷 Thanks for watching!

[@rockmanADV]

I use this camping all the time. The one I have has a huge LED light that can turn yellow. Works very well!!

[@nonnone7060]

Would you recommend it for power outages? I just bought a solar power bank similar to the one you show because my houses power goes out often and in that scenario i would need something to get a charge while the power is out. I already have a powerbank that is normal but sometimes that isn't charged so i figured having 2 power banks and one solar powered would be a good deal but is the solar power feature good in the event of not having any power?

[@RandoTechInfo]

Xxero: Yes, I think this would server you well in a power outage so long as, 1. You had the bank charged ahead of time. 2. You can place it outside to keep adding charge to it. It doesn't charge real fast but if you gave it a nice head start with a full charge and then kept topping it off in the sun, you could keep your phone charged for a very long time with it. Thanks for watching!

[@nonnone7060]

@@RandoTechInfo thank you for your kind feedback! Def subbing and watching more of your content!

[@RandoTechInfo]

Xxero: Thanks for that!

[@johnholliday5952]

It got four lights on the 6th day... It rested on the 7th day! 😆

[@sharonbraselton3135]

Bike corecy

[@Joshtheweatherman]

Lol, I bought this just to keep from using power adapters, and saving energy. With a fully charged 25,000 mAH battery, I'll be able to charge my iPhone XS up 9 times, which literally means 8-12 days of use without a power outlet! Not bad, and it would definitely come in handy if a bad storm or tornado came threw and knocked out the power for a couple of days (like it did last year during Easter). Worst case scenario, if I forgot to charge the power bank up, I can just open the panels up and put it on my car's roof and charge my phone that way.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Joshua: They can be very useful, especially in a pinch. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and thanks for watching!

[@Joshtheweatherman]

You're welcome!

[@Sean-tm2eu]

Bro I have a question does it affect battery health?? I’m also an apple user iPhone X. Was it???

[@sonofaleph2140]

Can these actually power a small USB device, rather than just for charging. Like a 2amp device, how long would a fully charged, 25000mAmp (charged from the wall instead of waiting for the sun) power bank last?

[@RandoTechInfo]

I would depend on a lot of factors. Sunlight, time of year, etc. I would think it would last you all day at least.

[@sonofaleph2140]

@@RandoTechInfo i see some of these DIY air conditioners on YT, with a 2.5a bilge pump serving as a fan source. I saw a guy in a van plug it into his USB port, so my next thought was if I use a fully charged 10000mAh power bank (I wanted a 25000 mAh bank, but I came across a 10000mAh one for $10, so I will use that to test my theory), I should be able to power my DIY A/C for a few hours, making the thing truly portable. 🤔

[@RandoTechInfo]

@@sonofaleph2140 I would THINK that would work. Come back and let us know.

[@sonofaleph2140]

@@RandoTechInfo will do...i plan to make a YT review of my progress. So far, I have proven that connecting a USB cord to the pump wiring (2.5amps), then connecting the USB into a 15k mAH power pack WILL work. I have not tested how long I will get. Just today I bought another pump with lower amps (.45) and 66% higher airflow, but it has a 110v plug (25 watts). I am going to run it through a 100 watt inverter to a male 5v Cigarette lighter input, then take a female lighter input that has a USB for the other end, and see how those .45amps work with the power bank. (Probably get some air flow reduction, but that should not affect the power bank).

[@RandoTechInfo]

@@sonofaleph2140 I love me some science. If you do post to KZbin, come back here and leave us a link.

[@bongwatersupreme6353]

Hey I’m in the market for one of these solar power banks but I’m sketched by all the fake ones on Amazon, do you recommend any with a legitimate high capacity mIlliamp hour rating?

[@RandoTechInfo]

Power bank I used in the video is no longer available and I'm not really sure what's all available out there right now. I know a lot of people like Blavor. Perhaps start there.

[@sharonbraselton4302]

yes chef know real capty fr8mmanazon nit fake one ship wiht chief

[@danieljung2810]

I have three of these. I love these things and with the qi charging if you forget the cable just plop the phone on top of it. I have the five panel one. ;)

[@RandoTechInfo]

Daniel: I reviewed a bank with wireless charging but had to let it go in a give away. I really liked it. Thanks for watching!

[@juanvaldez5422]

I can’t find one that actually uses sun . The solar panels are fake on the one I bought abd every other one I research . Is there a single one on the market that actually uses the sun to recharge or is it all just bullshxt? Edit: So this one does, just slowly?

[@RandoTechInfo]

Juan: I have never run into and "fake" solar chargers. Where are you buying from so I make sure I don't shop there. In any case yes, the panels on the bank in the video do indeed work. Thanks for watching!

[@tonywong8134]

Due to loss it doesn't charge a 4000 mAh 6+ times. Realistically it'll charge it about 4 times at most.

[@sharonbraselton4302]

yes it dose

[@colinsdrawings8523]

Does it charge all types of USB compatible devices? Ive been screwed too many times by power banks that charge some types of phones and not others with no rhyme or reason

[@RandoTechInfo]

It should charge any phone as long as you have the right cord. This charger, and most others, comes with a Micro USB cable so you might need a different cord depending on your phone.

[@XInfinity2024]

I have one of those (not the exact one that you have) and I would say its a waste of money to buy one. I have to say that if someone needs this kind of thing they should look as a battery bank and add portable solar cell them self since they can make it come closer to the USB charger speed. Yes this method might cost more but its worth it imo

[@RandoTechInfo]

X: For me it's less about money and more about portability. I just don't want to carry around extra gear, but I agree your solution is certainly more efficient. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and thanks for watching.

[@rimabdallah7050]

Ugh I really need one right now, ur kinda right but if it does charge fully after about 8 days then I'll be more than satisfied with it. We're having a ton of power cuts soo I guess it'll be better than nothing.

[@XInfinity2024]

@@rimabdallah7050 One thing I was working on didn't work out but I will be getting some more hardware to test something out and maybe make it even better than my first idea!

[@Free__Speech]

Powerbanks are 65 percent efficient. 20,000mAh = 20,000 x 0.65 = 13,000mAh true capacity Or 20,000×3.7÷5 = 14,800 mAh

[@activouno]

Power banks are good only to recharge with electricity. Sun is not an efficient charger, but it helps to carry it and charge it in your car

[@RandoTechInfo]

antonio: If you are charging from empty I agree. The solar is nice for some additional power or in emergency. Thanks for watching!

[@kendallswan9841]

Does the USB send and receive signals

[@phillipsmith650]

I’m glad to have found this. I live in Seattle and just got one like this from stealth angel. I was disappointed from indirect sunlight with overcast (almost all the time in Seattle) and I got nothing like you. I even tried putting it on my car dashboard and let it charge. Still nothing. Hope I can figure out a good way to get it a charge. I want it for emergency situations where electrical outlets aren’t available.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Hey Phillip. You won't get much charge through a window, (windows reflect photons) or indirect sunlight. You almost have to have direct sun to get any type of charge. Wish I had better news. Thanks for watching!

[@israellara89]

I bought the 43800mAh solar power bank and it only charges to around 4000mAh. Just get a well recognized brand power bank and not those chinese solar ones from Amazon.

[@valueofnothing2487]

Why does everyone's lawn look perfect?

[@RandoTechInfo]

The secret is letting it overgrow so you can't see the bald spots.

[@joshuamedina7292]

Also looks like they got plenty of rain by the looks of them clouds

[@Paraver-Pictures]

Thanks very much, I appreciate it.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Thank you for watching!

[@MizzAugust7]

When the hurricane is over & you have no electricity, for days- Im thinking something (if charged) is much better than having- nothing, so if you have an emergency call to make, they seem fine.

[@AdverageJo]

Us more than a 5watt charge when charging the power bank. Use a 35 watt and it'll be fully charged in about 6-7 hours

[@sharonbraselton4302]

yes

[@adammcguinness9950]

You’ve sold me on it, thank you for your review.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Thank you for watching.

[@richperigo660]

NICE, Greatest American Hero in the back!

[@RandoTechInfo]

Rich: Believe it... or not.

[@reveninja1642]

It seems that the unfoldable solar charged powerbank is a very good option for people living off the grid or on the road. But for people who do not really care about few thousands of miliamps drained from their home ac every now and then I think they would prefer the even slightly less chunky device.

[@RandoTechInfo]

REV: Fair

[@m0t0_RaPs]

Also, most windows have UV reduction. Keep in mind

[@selimkoksal4353]

is that the AddAcc Solar Chager

[@RandoTechInfo]

Selim: Technically no, but dang they look similar. Here is the link for mine: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07V2CQVV3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@Dr.Pepper001]

Push and hold power switch to get flashlight to come on.

[@RandoTechInfo]

Dwight: Got it thanks.

[@sharonbraselton3135]

Chef knowvthat eater

[@develentsai3215]

If the power bank battery dies does the solar charger still works? Thanks

[@RandoTechInfo]

Develen: What do you mean by "dies"? Do you mean it stops working or just runs out of juice?

[@develentsai3215]

@@RandoTechInfo I mean if the power bank breaks, don't work anymore will the solar charger still charge?

[@RandoTechInfo]

@@develentsai3215 Depends why it's broke. If it's just the charge port then I would say the solar function would still work. If it's something wrong with the internals or the battery itself then I would say it's probably hosed.

[@sharonbraselton3135]

Yes it disebpowrr stuff doaynout ufnsty cycke d bbmdeadbbateryvc h efbpiwrr paw rbergybdurecvsolarvdeks only zero batery vkds

[@leoui1085]

This is dope man, great informative video Genuinely helped me out❤️

[@RandoTechInfo]

Glad to hear it. Thanks!