The Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panel on the back window of a VW ID.4
If you want to keep your cameras, laptops, phones, and tablets topped off while camping and on the go, the Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panel ($129) might be the perfect solution. It's super compact (about the size of a laptop when collapsed), weighs just 2.6 pounds, and has a maximum output of 40 watts.
40W Mini Solar Panel Top Features
- Direct Device Charging: With direct charging capabilities via its included hub, you can power up your devices quickly and efficiently.
- Efficient Solar Conversion: Featuring a 23 percent solar conversion rate, ensures you get the most power possible from the sun.
- Extreme Durability: With an IP68 waterproof rating and verified through 8 IEC tests, this solar panel is built to withstand extreme temperatures and conditions.
- Solar panel cable with multifunctional USB hub, which is exclusive to the standalone version of the SolarSaga 40W panel.
Pairing the Solar Panel with a Mini Power Station
The solar panel fits perfectly on the back window of my VW ID.4 SUV, serving as both a sunshade and a solar generator at the same time. Devices can be plugged directly into its hub that includes one USB-C and one USB-A port, or you can pair the solar panel with the Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station ($129) that features 100W Dual PD charging and discharging.
The Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station that fits in the palm of your hand.
This is how I typically work with the 40 watt solar panel - I have the panel plugged into the Explorer 100 to add power while I use the other USB-C port to charge a device. This can happen simultaneously.
The Jackery 100 Plus can be charged and discharged simultaneously, providing a constant flow of energy for your digital devices.
All of my current cameras can be recharged via USB-C - Fujifilm X100V, Olympus OM-1, and Nikon Zf - as well as my iPhone 15 Pro Max and MacBook Pro M1 14" laptop. A full Explorer 100 Plus can do a complete round of charging of all three cameras, the iPhone, and the iPad. After recharging the Explorer 100, it can also completely refuel my MacBook Pro.
Using the 40-watt solar panel, I usually see about 25 watts of juice flow into the Explorer 100, recharging it in a couple hours.
Safer than Drawing Off the Car's 12 Volt Battery
Many cars allow for charging off their 12-volt batteries via a 12-volt car accessory plug or via USB ports. This is convenient when the car is running, but should be used with caution when not in motion, especially in remote locations.
The last thing you want to do is compromise your 12-volt car battery so it can't do its intended job: keep your car running. Having a separate power source for digital devices is an extra layer of protection against mishaps.
The Jackery 100 Plus power station can be shaded by the 40W solar panel when working in hot conditions.
Bottom Line
The Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panel combined with the Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station provides a flexible, powerful energy source for your digital devices when away from home.
The panel folds down to 10" x 12" and the mini power station is only 5" x 3.5". Together they will fit easily in any gear bag for the working photographer. Both items can be stowed in carry-on for air travel and used on location when you arrive.
USB-C Power Delivery allows this compact duo to refuel every piece of gear I use without having to lug around bulky power adapters. All I need is a USB-C cable, and I'm in business.
Other Articles in This Series
The Bluetti AC70 Power Station Review - Off-the-Grid Freedom.
The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Review - Power Your Roadtrips.
Roadtripping with the BODEGAcooler Mini 12V Portable Fridge/Freezer - A Review.
Hot Coffee, Soup, on the Road with this Portable Electric Kettle.
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