portable power stations

Portable Power Station Information & Advice

Review of the Jackery Explorer 500

Jackery Explorer 500

Power to Size

Just 11.8 x 7.62 x 9.5 inches and weighing 13.3lbs, this is a great compromise offering 500W continuous and 1000W peak power.

Endless Power

Married to the highly efficient SolarSaga 100 solar panel, in the right conditions you have the potential for virtually limitless energy.

Versatile charge

You have multiple options to recharge using either an AC wall outlet, a 12V car adapter, or the optional Jackery SolarSaga 100 solar panel.


one of the most popular power stations on the market

Here we have another popular model in the Jackery range of portable power stations. It has a robust construction and is an excellent independent power source for all sorts of outdoor activities, as well as a useful companion to have in your home to deal with any short-term emergency.

light and portable

A comfortable and balanced handle makes it easy to carry and transport the 13.3lbs (6kgs) Explorer 500 both away from the home and around your home.

versatile source of additional power

This mid-range portable power station has a 518.4Wh lithium-ion battery pack producing 500W of continuous power and 1000W of momentary peak power. This is fine for smaller items such as mini-coolers, fans, phones, tablets, drones, and laptops, always being careful not to overload the device. Owners also say it can power a fully-fledged CPAP for 8 hours.

recharging modes

Like the bigger models in Jackery’s range of portable power stations, the Explorer 500 can be charged using an AC wall socket, a solar panel, or by connecting the 12V adapter to your car’s cigarette lighter-style socket. You can of course also charge it with a portable generator.

The recommended solar panel for the Explorer 500 is the Jackery SolarSaga 100 solar panel, which has a built-in MPPT controller to produce the maximum output and recharge the power station in the most efficient way possible.

Input and Outputs

Jackery Explorer 500 Outputs

This model from Jackery includes:

  • 1xPure Sine Wave AC outlet (500W Continuous, 1000W Surge)
  • 3xUSB-A ports (5V, 2.4A)
  • 2x12V/7A DC ports
  • 1x12V/10A DC car port
  • 1xDC Input 8mm DC 12-30V (100W Max)

power capabilities

The power outputs on this device can charge a:

  • Phone 53 times
  • Mini-Cooler 7.5 Hours
  • Laptop 4.5 times
  • Camera 25 times
  • Drone 10 times
  • Car fridge +/-39 Hours 

maintenance-free operation

Like all power stations, the Explorer 500 delivers clean power output from its long-lasting maintenance-free lithium-ion battery pack, free from harmful emissions such as carbon monoxide and noise.

Versatile Recharging

There are at least 3 ways to recharge the Explorer 500, a fourth way is via a portable generator. Charging times to 100% are wall AC – 6.5 hours, Car – 7.5 hours, Solar – about 9 hours depending on weather).

Jackery Explorer 240 Recharging

Limitless Solar Power

The highly efficient, durable and IP65 water-resistant Jackery SolarSaga, weighing just 9.1lbs, is the perfect match for the Jackery Explorer 500 to provide you with almost limitless power when and where grid power in not available.

Jackery Solarsaga 100w

For more information on this model, see the User Manual.


Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, this power station can safely be used outdoors, but even though it is IP65 water-resistant, you must avoid rain, snow etc (see below).

No, power stations do not allow for any parallel linking of two devices.

The Jackery SolarSaga 100 (paid link) is the recommended solar panel to get maximum benefit from the power station.

No, never use it where it is wet or damp or expose it to rain, snow, water spray as this could result in electrocution 

Probably not. According to TSA regulations, Li-ion batteries over 100Wh may or may not be allowed on your carry-on. Ask your airline or local TSA.

Yes. It supports pass-through charging. However, the recharge time will be greatly extended and it can lead to a shorter battery life.

No, you should never try to replace the battery pack. Attempting to do so during the warranty period will void the warranty.

No, it’s not possible to use the Explorer 500 as a UPS.


jackery explorer 500 manufacturer specifications

Capacity518.4Wh (21.6V, 24Ah)
Cell ChemistryLi-ion NMC
Lifecycle>500 cycles
Battery Management SystemShort Circuit Protection
Over/Under Voltage Protection
Over Current Protection
Over Temperature Protection
Overcharge Protection
AC Output110VAC, 60Hz, 4.54A, 500W (1000W Peak)
3xUSB-A Output

5V, 2.4A (Max 30W)
DC Car Output
12V, 10A
2xDC Output12V-7A (Max Combined DC 120W)
DC Input8mm DC, 12V~30V (100W Max)
RECHARGE TIMES
AC AdapterAbout 6.5Hours
12V Car Adapter

About 7.5 Hours
SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel

About 9 Hours - 7.5 Hours (To 80%)
Portable GeneratorAbout 6.5 Hours
Recharging Temperature0-40℃
Weight13.3 lbs (6 kg)
Dimensions (LxWxD)11.8 x 7.62 x 9.5 inches (30 x 19.2 x 24.2 cm)
Operating Usage Temperature14-104F (-10-40℃)
Warranty24 Months (original buyer only)
Optional AccessoryJackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel

More Power Stations

Images for illustration only and not to scale