Jackery vs Goal Zero: Which Portable Power Station is Better?
If you’re planning a camping trip or want to be prepared for an emergency, a portable power station is a must-have. Jackery and Goal Zero are two of the most popular brands on the market, but which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll compare the two brands and break down their strengths and weaknesses.
Brand Overview:
Jackery and Goal Zero are both known for producing high-quality portable power stations that are easy to use and reliable.
Jackery was founded in 2012 and has quickly become a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those in need of backup power.
Goal Zero has been around since 2009 and is known for its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability. Both brands offer a range of products to suit different needs and budgets.
Product Comparisons:
When comparing Jackery and Goal Zero, several factors need to be considered. These include battery capacity, inverter rating, AC outlets, DC output, solar charge controller, solar panel input, and more.
We’ll take a closer look at these features and how they compare between the two brands.
Key Takeaways
- Jackery and Goal Zero are two popular brands of portable power stations that offer a range of products to suit different needs and budgets.
- When comparing the two brands, it’s important to consider factors such as battery capacity, inverter rating, and solar panel input.
- The best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and use cases.
Brand Overview
When it comes to portable power stations, Jackery and Goal Zero are two of the most popular brands on the market.
Jackery is a California-based company that specializes in portable power solutions, while Goal Zero is a Utah-based company that has been in the industry for over a decade.
Jackery
Jackery offers a range of portable power stations that are designed to be lightweight, compact, and easy to use.
Their products are known for their high-quality build and excellent performance, making them a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts and travelers.
One of the key features of Jackery’s products is their use of lithium-ion batteries, which are known for their high energy density and long lifespan.
This means that Jackery’s power stations can provide reliable power for a wide range of devices, from smartphones and laptops to larger appliances like refrigerators and power tools.
Goal Zero
Goal Zero is another popular brand in the portable power station market. They offer a range of products that are designed to be durable, versatile, and easy to use.
One of the key selling points of Goal Zero’s products is their use of solar panels, which allow users to charge their power stations using the power of the sun.
Goal Zero’s products are also known for their high-quality build and excellent performance. They offer a range of power stations with varying capacities, making it easy for users to find a product that meets their specific needs.
In terms of pricing, Jackery’s products are generally more affordable than Goal Zero’s. However, Goal Zero’s products are known for their excellent build quality and performance, making them a popular choice among serious outdoor enthusiasts and travelers.
Product Comparisons
When choosing between Jackery and Goal Zero, several factors need to be considered. Here are some of the key product comparisons to help you make an informed decision.
Power Capacity and Battery Life
Both Jackery and Goal Zero offer a range of portable power stations with varying power capacities and battery life.
For example, the Jackery Explorer 1000 has a capacity of 1002Wh, while the Goal Zero Yeti 1500X has a capacity of 1516Wh.
However, it’s important to note that the actual battery life will depend on factors such as the devices you’re charging and the amount of power they require.
Solar Panel Integration
One of the key advantages of portable power stations is their ability to be charged using solar panels.
Both Jackery and Goal Zero offer a range of compatible solar panels, but it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
For example, the Jackery SolarSaga 100W is a lightweight and portable option, while the Goal Zero Boulder 100 Briefcase is more durable and rugged.
Design and Portability
Portability is a key factor to consider when choosing a portable power station, especially if you plan to take it on outdoor adventures.
Both Jackery and Goal Zero offer compact and lightweight options, but there are some differences in design.
For example, the Jackery Explorer 500 has a built-in handle for easy carrying, while the Goal Zero Yeti 400 has a more rugged design with a protective metal roll cage.
Price and Value
Price is an important consideration when choosing a portable power station, but it’s also important to consider the overall value.
Both Jackery and Goal Zero offer a range of options at different price points, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and budget.
For example, the Jackery Explorer 240 is a more affordable option with a capacity of 240Wh, while the Goal Zero Yeti 1000 is a more expensive option with a capacity of 1045Wh.
Performance and Features
When comparing Jackery and Goal Zero power stations, it’s important to consider their performance and features.
In this section, we’ll take a closer look at how these two brands stack up in terms of charging and outputs, display and monitoring, and additional functionalities.
Charging and Outputs
Both Jackery and Goal Zero offer a range of power stations with different charging and output capabilities.
For example, Jackery’s Explorer series includes models that can be charged via AC outlet, car charger, or solar panels.
The Explorer 1000, which is one of Jackery’s most powerful models, can be fully charged in 8 hours via AC outlet or car charger, and in 8.5 hours via two 100W solar panels.
Goal Zero’s Yeti series also offers a variety of charging options, including AC outlet, car charger, and solar panels.
The Yeti 1500X, which is one of Goal Zero’s most powerful models, can be fully charged in 3 hours via AC outlet, and in 4.5 hours via two 200W solar panels.
When it comes to output ports, both Jackery and Goal Zero power stations offer a range of options.
For example, the Jackery Explorer 1000 has 3 AC outlets, 2 USB-C ports, and 2 USB-A ports, while the Goal Zero Yeti 1500X has 6 AC outlets, 2 USB-C ports, and 2 USB-A ports.
Display and Monitoring
Another important aspect to consider when comparing Jackery and Goal Zero power stations is their display and monitoring capabilities.
Jackery’s Explorer series features an LCD screen that displays important information such as battery level, input/output wattage, and charging time.
Goal Zero’s Yeti series also features an LCD screen, but it also includes a mobile app that allows you to monitor and control your power station remotely.
The app provides real-time data on battery level, power usage, and charging status, and it also allows you to turn on/off individual output ports.
Additional Functionalities
Both Jackery and Goal Zero power stations offer a range of additional functionalities that can be useful in different situations.
For example, some Jackery models come with a built-in flashlight, while others feature a wireless charging pad that allows you to charge your phone without plugging it in.
Goal Zero’s Yeti series, on the other hand, includes models with a Wi-Fi router, which can be useful when you’re camping or traveling in areas with limited connectivity.
Additionally, some Yeti models come with a built-in MPPT charge controller, which can help you optimize solar charging efficiency.
Use Cases and Suitability
When deciding between Jackery and Goal Zero portable power stations, it’s important to consider your specific use case and needs. Here are some common use cases and which brand may be more suitable:
Camping and Outdoor Use
Both Jackery and Goal Zero are popular choices for camping and outdoor activities due to their portability and ability to provide power off the grid.
However, Jackery may be more suitable for this use case due to their higher battery capacity and faster recharge times.
For example, the Jackery Explorer 1000 has a 1002Wh battery capacity, while the Goal Zero Yeti 1000 has a 1045Wh battery capacity.
Additionally, the Jackery Explorer 1000 can be fully charged in 8 hours with two 100W solar panels, while the Goal Zero Yeti 1000 takes 14 hours to fully charge with two 100W solar panels.
Home Backup Power
If you’re looking for a portable power station for home backup power during power outages, Goal Zero may be the better choice.
Their Yeti models have a higher wattage output and can power larger appliances such as refrigerators and power tools.
For example, the Goal Zero Yeti 3000 has a 3000W pure sine wave inverter and can power a refrigerator for up to 55 hours. In comparison, the Jackery Explorer 1000 has a 1000W pure sine wave inverter and can power a refrigerator for up to 12 hours.
RVing and Travel
Both Jackery and Goal Zero can be suitable for RVing and travel, but Jackery may be more convenient due to its lighter weight and smaller size.
For example, the Jackery Explorer 240 weighs 6.6lbs and has a 240Wh battery capacity, while the Goal Zero Yeti 200X weighs 5.4lbs and has a 187Wh battery capacity.
Additionally, the Jackery Explorer 240 can be fully charged in 5.5 hours with a 60W solar panel, while the Goal Zero Yeti 200X takes 4-8 hours to fully charge with a 60W solar panel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the differences in battery capacity between Jackery and Goal Zero models?
Jackery and Goal Zero offer portable power stations with varying battery capacities.
Jackery’s smallest model, the Explorer 160, has a 167Wh battery capacity. Meanwhile, their largest model, the Explorer 2000, has a 2000Wh battery capacity.
Goal Zero’s smallest model, the Yeti 200X, has a 187Wh battery capacity, while their largest model, the Yeti 6000X, has a 6000Wh battery capacity.
It’s important to choose a model with a battery capacity that meets your power needs.
How do the charging times of Jackery power stations compare to those of Goal Zero?
The charging times for Jackery and Goal Zero power stations vary depending on the model and charging method used.
Both brands offer power stations that can be charged via solar panels, AC outlets, and car chargers.
Jackery’s charging times range from 4-8 hours for solar charging, 7 hours for AC charging, and 14 hours for car charging.
Meanwhile, Goal Zero’s charging times range from 4-8 hours for solar charging, 4-5 hours for AC charging, and 13 hours for car charging.
It’s important to note that these charging times can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and the quality of the charging equipment used.
Which brand offers more durable and reliable portable power stations?
Both Jackery and Goal Zero offer durable and reliable portable power stations.
Jackery’s power stations are made with high-quality materials and have a solid construction. Similarly, Goal Zero’s power stations are also made with high-quality materials and have a reputation for being durable and reliable.
However, Goal Zero’s power stations have a longer warranty period than Jackery’s power stations, which may be a factor to consider when choosing between the two brands.
Can Jackery and Goal Zero power stations support CPAP machines effectively?
Yes, both Jackery and Goal Zero power stations can support CPAP machines effectively.
However, it’s important to choose a power station with a battery capacity that can support the power needs of your CPAP machine. Additionally, make sure to choose a power station with the appropriate output ports and inverter capabilities to ensure compatibility with your CPAP machine.
What are the inverter capabilities of Jackery versus Goal Zero portable power stations?
Both Jackery and Goal Zero power stations have built-in inverters that convert DC power to AC power.
However, the inverter capabilities of each brand’s power stations vary depending on the model.
Jackery’s power stations have a pure sine wave inverter, which produces a cleaner and more stable power output. Meanwhile, Goal Zero’s power stations have a modified sine wave inverter, which is less expensive but can produce a less stable power output.
How do the prices of Jackery and Goal Zero power stations compare for similar battery capacities?
The prices of Jackery and Goal Zero power stations vary depending on the model and battery capacity. In general, Jackery’s power stations are less expensive than Goal Zero’s power stations for similar battery capacities.
However, when comparing prices between the two brands, it’s important to consider factors such as warranty, inverter capabilities, and overall build quality.