Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240 Review

The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240 is a portable power supply designed to keep your devices and appliances running when the power grid fails or when you’re in a location with no grid power. Weighing only 6.6 lbs, it is an incredibly compact and lightweight power solution with a solid 240Wh capacity. The Jackery Explorer 240 is ideally suited for situations where you need power on-the-go, such as camping, emergency situations, or during natural disasters.

Features:

• Power Capacity: The Jackery Explorer 240 has a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 240Wh, enough to power small devices for several hours.
• Output: It has a variety of output options: one AC outlet (110V, 200W max), two USB-A ports (5V, 2.4A each), and one DC car port (12V, 10A).
• Recharging: You can recharge it from a wall outlet, car outlet, or with solar power (using the Jackery SolarSaga 60 solar panel, sold separately). Wall charging typically takes 7 hours, car outlet 8 hours, and solar charging depends on the weather conditions, usually taking 9-10 hours.
• Display: It features a backlit LCD screen that displays the remaining battery life and output power, which is a helpful feature for power management.

Performance:

From a prepper’s perspective, the Jackery Explorer 240 performs admirably. The unit is quiet when in use, emitting no noise or fumes like a conventional generator. With 240Wh, it can easily charge your phone 20+ times, a laptop 3-4 times, or run a small appliance like a mini-fridge or a CPAP machine for a few hours.

However, if you have larger power needs, like a full-sized refrigerator, heating devices, or high-powered tools, this unit might not be enough. Remember, this is a portable power station designed for small to medium power demands.

Pros:

• Portability: This unit is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around, a crucial factor for a prepper.
• Eco-friendly: It uses a lithium-ion battery, which is cleaner than gas generators, doesn’t produce noise, and is maintenance-free.
• Versatility: It has multiple outputs, making it ideal for powering a range of devices.

Cons:

• Limited Power Capacity: While its capacity is more than enough for charging gadgets and running small appliances, it might not suffice for larger appliances or long-term off-grid living.
• Price: The Jackery Explorer 240 is a bit on the expensive side compared to other portable power stations with similar capacity.
• Solar Panel Not Included: If you want to charge it via solar power, you need to purchase the solar panel separately.

Comparison with Similar Products:

When compared to other power stations, like the Goal Zero Yeti 200X, the Jackery Explorer 240 holds its own. Both have similar capacities, but the Jackery is usually less expensive and slightly more compact. The Goal Zero, however, has more USB ports and includes a USB-C port, which the Jackery lacks.

Value for Money:

While the Jackery Explorer 240 may seem expensive, its high quality, portability, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for a beginner prepper. You’re not just paying for a battery; you’re paying for the convenience of portable power, the reassurance of a reliable energy backup, and the peace of mind that comes from being prepared.

For those just starting with preparedness, the Jackery Explorer 240 can be an excellent starting point for ensuring you have portable power in case of an emergency. As your power needs grow, you can consider upgrading to higher-capacity models or getting multiple units. The ability to recharge it through multiple methods also ensures you have a reliable power source regardless of the circumstances. Overall, the Jackery Explorer 240 offers significant value for the money spent.

Usability and Durability:

The Jackery Explorer 240 is user-friendly, with a clean and intuitive interface that even the most tech-averse person can understand. Plug in your device, turn on the unit, and you’re good to go. The LCD display is also clear and easy to read, showing your power usage and remaining battery life at a glance.

In terms of durability, the Explorer 240 is built to last. Its solid construction can withstand bumps and drops, and it operates well in a range of temperatures, making it suitable for outdoor use in all kinds of weather. As with any electronic device, you’ll want to keep it dry and avoid extreme temperatures whenever possible.

Long-term Reliability:

For the long-term prepper, the Jackery Explorer 240 holds up well. The lithium-ion battery can maintain its charge for months, meaning you can charge it and store it away for when you need it. However, it’s recommended to recharge it every 3-6 months to keep the battery in good condition. With proper care, the Explorer 240 can serve you for years.

Customer Support and Warranty:

Jackery offers a 2-year warranty on the Explorer 240, which is pretty standard in the industry. Their customer service has generally positive reviews, with responsive representatives ready to help with any issues. This is an important factor to consider when buying any significant piece of equipment.