Slim Tests Jackery's Explorer 500 & SolarSaga 100 Power System

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After hearing about my past issues with remote power, a company called Jackery sent me their products to try out and review. Here is my honest opinion of the Jackery Explorer 500 Power Station and the SolarSaga 100 Solar Panels.
Note on Amp Hours: Jackery confuses the issue by only mentioning a 24Ah@ 21.6V rating of the lithium battery. Using this on 12V instead of through the 110V inverter is far more efficient. My calculation was based on 518Wh divided by 12.6 (battery voltage) = 41.1Ah. This is a better approximation in comparing it to other 12V RV batteries.
CORRECTIONS: The SolarSaga Panels have USB-A and USB-C ports, not miniUSB. Also the 12V and 110V charge adapters go in the INPUT socket like the Solar panels. 12V Output is only for using the Jackery to charge other appliances. Sorry!
Products mentioned in this video (Amazon Affiliated Links*):
Conair miniPRO: amzn.to/2rjJ7b3
Jackery Explorer 500: amzn.to/34cOY0o
Jackery Solar Saga 100W Solar Panel: amzn.to/2qwe5g6
Outbound 24-can soft Cooler: amzn.to/37yzdmz
MC4 Solar to 8mm Adapter Cable: amzn.to/2qGDAvj
For a list of all my videos, please use this link: / @slimpotatohead
My Equipment (Amazon Affiliate Links*):
Main Camera: Sony A7Sii: amzn.to/2J9voXk
Camcorder: Sony FRD-AX33: amzn.to/2khCRMT
4K Sports Camera: amzn.to/2Dtsygn
Zoom Field Recorder: amzn.to/2WrLZQU
Shotgun Mic: amzn.to/2kOJqqY
Merlin 2 Steadicam: amzn.to/2X67unS
Tripod: amzn.to/2Xb3EKg
Editing: Powerdirector 17: amzn.to/2KqY8gC
Sports Chair: amzn.to/2OkN7PL
Traction Matt: amzn.to/2z4sb9o
Tow Truck in a Box: amzn.to/2Os2vf0
Electric Blanket: amzn.to/2UB6UjP
How I get around:
Trailer: 2004 Abner (aka Aliner) with around 100,000 miles of hard use. Includes propane stove, hot shower, toilet, refrigerator, 400W solar, three 12V batteries (one AGM, one deep cycle, one lithium-ion)
Tow Vehicle: 2010 Jeep Liberty, 6 cyl 3.7L gas engine, 4WD, over 160,000 km
* Amazon Affiliate Links provide me with a very small percentage of the sale with no additional cost to the buyer. Please support Slim Potatohead by using my links for any Amazon purchase. Thanks! the sale with no additional cost to the buyer. Please support Slim Potatohead by using my links for any Amazon purchase. Thanks!

Опубликовано:

25 ноя 2019

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Комментарии : 701

@pegasusteam 3 года назад

I’ve watched quite a few videos on the Jackery line. You’re the first to show it had an led flashlight built in.

@patriciaoneil 4 года назад

When charging the Battery Unit in a closed car, be mindful that under direct sunlight the room temperature might exceed the max Operating Temperature Range of 40 degree celsius pretty fast. Although that admittedly might be more of a spring/summer problem. I had left a smartphone in a car and when I returned a couple hours later the battery had popped. Sent some chills down my spine imagining what if it had caught fire and set the car ablaze.

@tracker5849 2 года назад

SCARY!!!!!!

@clytiecatrett6209 Год назад

Thanks for this. I've been trying to talk my husband into buying a Jackery to run his CPAP machine.

@barbarahayton6157 4 года назад

Another great video! Recently I heard of Jackery power stations and now I know a lot more. Thanks so much for your helpful videos to help us get more from our off the grid camping. I look forward to all of our videos. Safe travels!

@patriciasolomon7618 4 года назад

Ingenious charging in the window for security!

@GoVerdigo 4 года назад

He’s like a camping sensei

@pianogal853 3 года назад

My solar products don't charge behind my windshield - too well shielded from UV I guess

@bpp325 3 года назад

Brilliant idea.

@dickspade7045 4 года назад

Thank you, you certainly sold me. Your suggestion of the cooler case & putting the solar panel in the windshield are brilliant.

@katyamato1347 4 года назад

Great review. Entertaining and educational. People like you makes this world better place. Thank you so much😀 Yama I just bought Jackery 500 today.

@jameswebster9624 3 года назад

I just got my Jackery 550 and love it so far. Just waiting on my solar saga 100 watt panel to arrive for further testing. Thanks for such a great review on it!!

@CarlasLovingWife 4 года назад

You make it look so easy to set up and operate. I have to have it! That is what I want for Christmas. Thanks Slim.

@johnplouffe3673 3 года назад

Always enjoy your videos I find you to be a humble and practical man looking forward to seeing new videos from you have yourself a good day

@zoeycla 4 года назад

Thank you so much Slim for sharing this review. I've been researching and (not totally understanding) these types of power stations. Your explanations and demonstrations are miles ahead of others so again thanks for making this easier to understand. Love all your videos!

@nooneanon3151 4 года назад

I agree I've seen the Jackery talked about on many videos but Slim did it more clearly than any I'd seen with extra good ideas.

@kennethoros4043 4 года назад

I watched tons of reviews. Your seems to be the best. I was thinking about putting the solar panel in my front window as well. The bag seems to be a perfect fit.

@danmanx2 4 года назад

Thank you Slim for your great honest video about the power system. I'm going to buy a Jackery 500, most likely [or the model a step down]. My set up will never be as amazing as yours, but my plan is to have a travel vehicle with a couch and TV and those sort of things for adventuring/sleep/relaxation. Thanks again for all your videos and always giving us honesty.

@smokeandmirrors6167 4 года назад

Thank you for another great video with a bonus review! Definitely going to look into the jackery, I still need a solar setup for my cargo trailer! Cheers!

@waymanbell 4 года назад

Great review Slim, you've really peaked my interest in the Jackery. ......and Wishing I was out in the mountains today like you!

@FarrellMcGovern 4 года назад

Great review! I enjoy the humour in your videos, and this is no exception. Thank you.

@harloh9578 4 года назад

I've been looking into this setup for my truck camping setup so thanks for the review. Hairdryer idea......genius!

@cherriemckinstry131 4 года назад

What about one of those small area heaters that work on 110? I know it jas to be under 500watts. Running the hair dryer into the sleeping bag just might make for a better night.

@harloh9578 4 года назад

@@cherriemckinstry131 That's a good idea. I have a mr. Heater but would like to use something a little smaller.

@wvbonbonqueen 4 года назад

Another great video Slim. I have seen other videos on the Jackery, but You are the first one that I have seen that shows there is a light on the side of the Jackery. Thank you, that would really be a great feature and one that would be used from time to time. A good review, thank you.

@climber0077 3 года назад

Well done, informative video, Slim! I'll be checking out your other vids as well!

@bethaddis4377 4 года назад

I just purchased one. I do off grid camping with my kids. This last time was rough -27 f we were only forecasted to be -5. Boy I was happy for the wood stove in my camper. I will have to look up the panels for my jackery. I also got it for my husbands cpap. We live in tornado prone area. Want to make sure he has it at all times.

@lindasue8719 4 года назад

When driving with it on your passenger seat, run the safety belt through it. In a "situation" that thing will become a deadly projectile. Another good clear video, amiably presented. Thanks! 😊

@janicem4382 4 года назад

Thanks for the beer can cooler idea. I have a Jackery and it is a great thought.

@minenot4753 4 года назад

Darn. I want to use my solar panel as a raft. Appreciate your honest review. The beer cooler suggestion is epic.

@yedman1958 4 года назад

I have had the exact worries when leaving my solar generator out when hiking away from the campsite. It NEVER occurred to me to put it inside the car! Simple and Brilliant!

@peytonmac1131 3 года назад

Just make sure not to do it during summer. Lithium batteries only handle something like 40 Celsius, and they have been known to catch fire at temperatures above that.

@cliffmason-wenn1479 4 года назад

Thanks for reviewing this , I saw it in one of your previous videos and couldn’t read the name , I’ll start saving for one !

@lenward474 4 года назад

It's about time! Every other RU-vid is supported by jackery.well done!!

@shadow_gingy999 4 года назад

Great review, best I've seen on the Jackery, so far. Hope you got some compensation for it. Thanks!

@tcjohnson1000 4 года назад

Putting the solar panel in the windshield of a locked vehicle is brilliant, simply brilliant! Well done Sir.

@MrProductionist 4 года назад

I don't think you give enough credit to your trailer home. I honestly is one of the reason why I watch your show. Seen that you go anywhere and your trailer home protects you from all weather conditions. I also love your narration. Most professional and you editing presentable ready. Keep it up Sir. My most respects to your channel.

@j.w.m.rhynejr9766 4 года назад

Great informative review! Thanks for sharing this story of experience with the functional solar generator tool !

@johnlupo9577 3 года назад

I love your channels handle. Great videos, great product review.

@katpis9121 4 года назад

Great product review I want one now lol. Keep the great videos coming loving this channel

@pagewhite8177 3 года назад

That’s a cool product, I love the beer cooler case idea. Thanks Slim.

@susanpremo8068 3 года назад

Cool, since we just bought, but haven't been able to use yet, an aliner classic, I've been watching your videos, very inspiring, I know nothing about how to use the jackery or solar, but hope to understand these things soon. Some folks say "you'll learn in a hurry "!

@dreamhunter272 4 года назад

Loved your review! A lot of useful info. I was thinking of the yeti 450. But will look more into this. I like the idea of the cooler as no one would think to steal it. Great job!

@faithrada 4 года назад

Not want to steal 24 cans of beer? Hmm.

@nooneanon3151 4 года назад

@@faithrada Yep I've had my camp invaded and cooler on picnic table looked into - people looking for beer - fortunately I heard them and my movement scared off but all they would have found anyway was food - no beer. Since then I camp in bear country so of course never leave cooler out.

@faithrada 4 года назад

@@nooneanon3151 🐻🍺🌲😎

@deadthem 4 года назад

I just discovered your channel and you sir are THE MAN! I'm going to pour myself a glass of whiskey tonight and binge your videos. Have a good one!

@Fingerprintguy 4 года назад

Pour guy just discovered the channel now. Binge on my friend and pore it on!

@2nd_gear85 4 года назад

He needs Patreon page asap! He has great content.

@RandomPlaceHolderName 4 года назад

@@Fingerprintguy You're confusing poor/pour/pore.

@tuckergreen2818 4 года назад

RandomPlaceHolderName I have holes 🕳 in all my undies now that’s being poor

@totallyjonesin 4 года назад

Make it Canadian for authenticity.

@jsking306 4 года назад

Another great video. I've seen other camping RU-vid channels, and the charger seems to be pretty popular. Thanks for all of your extremely interesting and entertaining content!

@mikemay1200 4 года назад

Love your vids. Much more informative than other channels.

@stevecolby6505 4 года назад

Great thing about the Jackery and panels is that you can transfer them to your next trailer with ease. No custom installation needed.

@SuperCJification 4 года назад

That is an interesting point to be made in favor of having a system like this (portable power station) in that other than some manufacturer tie-in (Jackery unit only working (officially) with Jackery panels for example) it's basically a way to invest in a power system that you can move between places/trailers so you can retain your investment.

@cindychurch925 4 года назад

As always, fantastic review. Impressive. Happy Thanksgiving!!

@lindawoods6841 4 года назад

I really like that jackery...and to be light weight I would love it..great information.. really love your videos,,thank you again for sharing.

@caroltrammell6972 4 года назад

Thank you for the information on the Jackery...it was sooo very helpful

@karenlewkowitz5858 4 года назад

Thanks Slim! Respect! Always enjoy your videos and know how!

@paulrobinson1337 4 месяца назад

Hi Slim - thanks for this video. Appreciate your thoughts on this kit and have gone ahead and ordered the Jackery 550 with the solar panels from Canadian Tire (virtuallly identical to your 500). Our teardrop has rooftop solar panels and a plug in panel but the issue is always when we are camped in shadier areas and not feeding our AGM battery enough to keep our dometic cooler powered. The ability to take the Jackery kit to the sun (or to shore power) and that brilliant idea of using it as a sun shade sealed the deal - the extra power will be welcome for all kinds of uses. Cheers - enjoy your videos.

@SurvivalistChick 2 года назад

Fantastic idea about the beer cooler! I bought one immediately after seeing this. It arrived today. Absolutely perfect fit! Thanks for the tip, and the video overall. You're a funny guy.

@Turtle3863 4 года назад

Glad you did this review, I was looking to purchase one of these for the 2020 season. Thanks

@atco21117 4 года назад

Great review! And, what a tip on putting the solar panel in the truck dash. I never thought about that. Thanks! -- Atco

@marialopes9365 4 года назад

Honestly, somebody should hire you as a promoter/influencer, cause you make awesome review videos Mr. Slim ! Thanks for the video ! Keep them coming !

@whereswendy8544 4 года назад

Great review, thanks! I need one for my c-pap machine when l am boondocking.

@ncpinky8495 4 года назад

I have seen a lot of reviews on the Jackery 500, and yours has been the most thoughtful and thorough. Thanks, Slim!

@rickilee961 4 года назад

Just wanting to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and keep up the great videos

@cyn4rest 4 года назад

Got it! Thanks for link and promo code to save some buckeroos. Already have the Jackery500. Looking forward to testing them together. Safe travels....

@itsadogslife7468 4 года назад

This is a better review the most I’ve seen on the Jackery 500

@kathybowen3725 4 года назад

You remind me of something I used to search for in the back of hunting magazines back in the 60s called TAPS TIPS. Your good friend Vinny in good old Fla.

@paulm.6437 4 года назад

Thanks for the very informative video on power stations, and the solar panels.

@bustershaw9230 4 года назад

Hey Slim That was a honest and great review. You'll need another cooler for your beer. I like how you can put it on the dash. You can go hiking and it'll be secure and charging. Happy Thanksgiving.

@kbjerke 2 года назад

I bought an Explorer 500 a few months ago, and I love it. SO much, that I bought an Explorer 1500 last month. Same wonderful performance. You had a *GREAT* idea of putting the folding solar panels behind the windshield!!! LOL!

@jean405 4 года назад

This was a great video, thanks for your time and the review. ☀️☀️

@cocacolafiesta 4 года назад

Great idea for the cooler as a means of protection. But, additionally, with the strap of the cooler it provides for hands free carrying. Thanks for your review.

@barbaragriffin869 4 года назад

I checked out the Jackery system. Thanks for the concise review!

@paully65 4 года назад

The interior of your Jeep looks so good! Good luck with trailer shopping.

@maryfrady7149 4 года назад

I've been using the Stanley 1200 for a year now. It has a light, airs up tires,can jump start my Van's battery as well as having USB & 110 outlets. I do have to charge it by plugging it into a wall socket but for under $100, I'm happy with it. I still may get a jackery and solar panels. Time will tell!

@borealiswan2363 4 года назад

Exactly what I've looking for, shopping around on Amazon! Thanks for the awesome review... with that touch of humour...

@vanessaboman8143 4 года назад

Love it! The idea of the windscreen for charging thank you, ☺

@nancycrosby3153 4 года назад

I have the small Jackery and i love it, wish i would have gone for the 500...the light is very nice to have also..safe travels

@maryvought8495 4 года назад

You are so creative! Good job Slim!

@GoodoldCT90 3 года назад

Very good video Slim, The Jackery Explorer 500 & SolarSaga 100 is to expensive for most of us part time campers. Thanks again.

@lindaspriggs419 4 года назад

Very cool. I recently purchased a Rockpals system. Looking forward to more boondocking.

@disco07 4 года назад

Looks like a nice piece of equipment. Its good to know you are color coordinated. I used cheap white paper plates. Plug in a computer, small tv and a cheap ceramic heater. That's all I use.

@johnaverick7468 4 года назад

Thank you SO , SO Much for converting all your metric measurements for us old Yanks.

@REB65 4 года назад

I like it 👍 Thanks Slim! Happy Thanksgiving and God bless ✌️

@zickiea172 3 года назад

The idea about placing on car dashboard is great!

@karenqueen4706 4 года назад

LOVE the info as the videos. Thank You.

@Charlielizard 4 года назад

That was a great video. You've got a great channel with lots of wonderful ideas and suggestions. Thanks and have a beautiful Thanksgiving Holiday.

@marketinginmass 4 года назад

A handy gadget! Great review Slim!

@toddjohnston4788 4 года назад

Putting solar panels inside front car window is a GREAT idea. Thanks 😊

@BethGrantDeRoos 4 года назад

Really, really appreciated this video! Have been looking to gift a set up like this to someone, since we live in the California Sierra around the Angels Camp area where the power company had been shutting off power recently due to wild fire concerns.

@captlynhall 4 года назад

Great review, Slim. Thank you.

@Tsiri09 3 года назад

I love watching your channel!

@sueg2658 4 года назад

Slim, when you said about reflection on the solar panel, I wondered is something like reflectix put down under it would help no matter when and where you use it. Just an idea. Thank you for sharing with us. 👍🏻❤️

@pouglwaw5932 2 года назад

Good thinking ! It may or may not be really effective, but surely will not hurt power production. Thanks for the tip.

@marklennox2151 2 года назад

This is interesting Sue. I've been building out my Chevy Astro and I have a Renogy 100w panel on the roof and my Jackery 500 was showing 30 watts of input. I was putting foil sided foamboard insulation on the ceiling that day and had placed a 4x8 sheet leaning on the van. When I looked at the Jackery's input it went up to 52 watts from the reflection so I may be fabricating something to enhance the input.

@beckyspindler2153 4 года назад

Yes I agree about putting the panels in the windshield of your car that too will also be like a greenhouse effect and bring the temperature closer to not freezing for charging. It's a good day to be a cat in the window with a good book and a snuggly warm dark blanket. Thanks for sharing looking forward to seeing more

@CanadianMapleleaf 4 года назад

I could listen to you speak all day. :)

@msnpassjan2004 4 года назад

Hey Slim, this is hands down the best unit on the market for a CPAP machine.

@jmpattillo 4 года назад

msnpassjan2004 I was able to use a similar unit for tent camping with CPAP. Mine has a much smaller capacity due to airline restrictions. Nevertheless I was able to use the heated humidifier for 5-6 hours a night as long as I recharged every day. Also, I ran my dream station directly off 12 volts to avoid the power loss from the inverter.

@ShawshankR3demption 4 года назад

Hahahaha

@cyndifoore7743 4 года назад

msnpassjan2004 good to know that

@msnpassjan2004 3 года назад

@@turkey4957 I use the Jackery 440, the Jackery 500 predecessor, daily since September 2019 as my UPC. My Resmed CPAP machine pulls around 5 watts so the Jackery 440 is good for about 16 hours to 30%. The Jackery 500 should be even better.

@trekOCLVone 4 года назад

After researching the portable solar generators I bought the Jackery 500 watt unit. I recharged 2 Dewalt 18v NiMH batteries that were about 1/2 down from full and the Jackery was still at 81%. A couple of days later the Jackery 60 watt panels came and I place the panel in direct sun light and achieved 48 watts of charging going back into the Jackery. A couple hours and the Jackery was back to 100% charged. You get what you pay for with these devices - cheaper units are just more of a gamble. The low cost 100 watt panels will not deliver any more wattage than the 60 watt Jackery panels. This unit is my backup for home and travel use. Anything more serious that a few hours of power outage and I will gas up my Honda generator. Thank you for sharing.

@herdfan697278 4 года назад

Once again, a superior video!👍

@richardmattingly7000 4 года назад

Kudos on the review because many wouldn't show the little tricks you know like using a reflective surface like snow to maximize recharging or setting it up in a vehicle so it wouldn't walk away. Another way to imitate Slim's reflection tip is to put down a white material like a sheet or plastic sheet under the panel and it would also protect it from the ground at the same time. The best reflector would be a Silvered Mylar Foil like some Windshield Shade use or similar insulation material sold in rolls since there practically a mirror. Be careful not to use rechargeable battery or device when its on in an insulated container because they do release heat that can soar to dangerous levels and check it even while it's off since there should be no heat generated when stored in any insulated container or other such storage conditions.

@ittrax 4 года назад

Operating it in the car while you're away won't be a solution in summertime - will get much too hot very quickly, dangerous. Won't it even be too hot for the device inside a car parked in sunlight in summer to just store/keep it there?

@johnnygreene5447 4 года назад

Excellent presentation on the Jackery

@mrbillmacneill 4 года назад

Portable power for the campsite is the future Slim! We don't have the Jackery -however we do have a competitor unit and we are also quite happy with the results so far. I would urge your viewers to check out some form of portable power that has a solar panel option. It has simplified our power use considerably. Formerly we would spend a fair bit of time each day during our travels charging cpap batteries , fan batteries , phones etc from the 12volt cigarette lighter outlet. Currently [!] we would charge a cpap battery ,run a small USB fan for circulation and a bit of a night light , a fridge and two Bluetooth speakers. With this draw down of power we only got to half way [about three days] before I relented and charged it up again so we are happy with that. That we could take a nice coffee bean grinder on our travels is also a plus. We have the solar option and the 12 volt adapter and I would recommend them both for sure. Haven't had it out on the trail as yet but it is maintaining the charge on our unit as we communicate , right here in the apt. Excellent idea for panel security and will be implemented forthwith as I am pretty sure there is enough room in the Transit wheelhouse for that. -also liked beer cooler idea a lot. and a thumbs up , of course!

@ravencrow9459 4 года назад

Great video, Jackery is one outfit I am considering since I need to travel with a CPAP machine. Your explanations always clear up questions for me. Stay warm and have wonderful holidays.

@KenWPeek 4 года назад

Will Prowse did a tear-down of this model, and it is VERY well made inside. This is probably the best you can buy in this power and energy range.

@azclaimjumper 4 года назад

And I'm sure, at some point in time, Will, will chime in by saying "something".

@nooneanon3151 4 года назад

Can't imagine being able to afford to "tear-down" one but thanks that's very good to know I've been lusting for one for almost a year - going to buy soon - especially helpful to see Slim's review and hear that they're good inside out too!

@scottmurphy4946 4 года назад

I have been watching Will for a bit now, and will search his videos if I am in the market for small portable power

@TwoLaneTraveller 4 года назад

Slim, My experience with Jackery’s portable products has all been positive. I still prefer fixed mounts and Renogy MPPT controllers. My favorite Jackery feature is the ability to charge it from the power port in my truck. I have not had a single issue with either company.

@adamw4469 3 года назад

Great review, thanks!

@brightondude9327 4 года назад

Thank you for using celsius. I know that in Canada this is commonly used. The US RVers who make RU-vid videos talk exclusively in Fahrenheit but today the vast majority of the world uses celsius. I think it is good to put in the Fahrenheit conversion on screen as you did.

@michellecastaneda20 4 года назад

I have a 250 Jackery. I love it. Works great. I was just out for 3 weeks. It did great.

@purplepixie3397 4 года назад

Very informative. Thank you Slim

@allenmoccasin2029 4 года назад

Great review. Thanks 😊

@erikacooper8348 4 года назад

Hi Slim, I believe Bex Cat Herder also did an great review on this too, thanks for the videos!

@johnm1585 3 года назад

Excellent video review. I already bought a Jackery but havent had time to try it out. Now I have a head start on how to use it. Thanks. The security tip is a good idea I will use, as well as using snow placement (or a white rug?) to boost input.

@Morningdovecamp 3 года назад

Thank you Slim. Excellent review. I am just getting started on van life and don’t know if I should get the Jackery 500 vs the 1000? THank you for your demonstration and explanation 👍