This ultra-portable power station can charge any device – and it’s cheaper than you think
Key points of ZDNET
- the Anker Solix C300 DC available from Amazon for $199.
- This awesome portable power station can charge pretty much anything you have, and you can recharge it quickly using both 140W USB-C ports.
- I wish the 12V port had a rubber cover to prevent dirt and metal objects from getting into the port.
As power banks get bigger, power plants get smaller. Despite its compact size, this new type of power station is incredibly powerful, capable of carrying and delivering significant amounts of power. Ultimately, however, you have to recharge the device, and large battery capacities often mean long charging times. Hitherto.
new one Anker Solix C300 DC is full of features that make it perfect for camping, hiking, and working outdoors. It also allows recharging at supercharged speeds.
Anker Solix C300 DC technical specifications
- Capacity: 90,000 mAh and 288Wh
- Battery technology: LiFePO4
- Maximum output: 300W
- USB-C output: 2x140W, 1x100W, 1x15W
- USB-A output: 2x12W
- USB-C input: 2x140W (total 280W)
- XT60 input: 1x100W/28V
- Car charger output: 1x120W
- Light: LED pop-up light with three brightness levels
- Size: 4.9 × 4.7 × 7.9 inches
- Weight: 6.17 pounds
Let’s get straight to the fun part: you can charge the Solix C300 DC using two 140W USB-C inputs, providing a maximum output of 280W. This can take the device from flat to 80% in just one hour. If you only have a short amount of time with some AC power, this could be a game changer, allowing you to charge your device in half the time it would otherwise take.
If you’re off the grid, you can also recharge the device via solar panels using the XT60 port and the vehicle’s 12V system, although both methods require purchasing the appropriate cables.
In terms of output, you’re free to use a total of seven USB-C and USB-A ports, giving the device great versatility and the ability to charge everything from a MacBook Pro to earbuds. The 12V DC output also allows you to power car accessories such as portable refrigerators.
Also: The best power banks you can buy: Tested by experts
The pop-up light on top of the unit is perfect for illuminating camping areas, tents, vehicles or workspaces and serves as an ideal emergency light during a power outage.
The display provides an overview of what the Solix C300 DC is doing, and is nice and bright, making it clear and easy to read in all conditions. You can also connect the device to the Anker app for remote control.
Weighing just over 6 pounds, the device isn’t light, but the fabric handle relieves much of the strain. Anker also sells an option shoulder strapbut at $30, it seems quite expensive. I’m also not sure how far you want to carry a power station on your shoulder.
Also: The best portable power stations you can buy: Tested by experts
By using industrial-grade parts and ensuring they run cool, Anker claims the Solix C300’s components will last about 50,000 hours — or about six years. To prove this, Anker offers a three-year warranty.
ZDNET Buying Tips
While I like my big, giant power stations, I have to admit that I like this style of giant portable power station. They are at a sweet spot where a power bank is not big enough and a full power station is too big.
the Anker Solix C300 DC It’s great in that it offers a limitless experience, able to charge everything from the largest MacBook Pro to the smallest earbuds. Dual 140W SUB-C fast charging capability means if you have a few minutes with a free AC charger, you can top up the device to get through whatever your day takes!