Written by Chris on December 14, 2021
Review of the Jackery Explorer 500
Updated on: 29 November 2023
– At A Glance –
Decent Power to Size
Measuring 11.8 x 7.62 x 9.5 inches and weighing 13.3lbs, this is a great compromise offering 500W continuous and 1000W peak (surge) 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 Recharge
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.
POWER PORTS
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)
THE EXPLORER’S POWER CAPABILITIES
The power outputs on this device can charge a:
- Phone 53x
- Mini-Cooler 7.5 Hours
- Laptop 4.5x
- Camera 25x
- Drone 10x
- Car fridge +/-39 Hours
MAINTENANCE-FREE OPERATION DELIVERING CLEAN EMISSION FREE POWER
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).
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.
Input and Outputs
1xPure Sine Wave AC outlet (110V 500W 1000W Peak), 3xUSB-A ports (5V, 2.4A), and 2x12V DC and 1 12V DC car outlets.
For more information on this model, see the User Manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use Outdoors?
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).
Can I link two of these in parallel like a portable inverter generator?
No, power stations do not allow for any parallel linking of two devices.
What solar panel can I use with this model?
The Jackery SolarSaga 100 (paid link) is the recommended solar panel to get maximum benefit from the power station.
Can this unit be used in the rain?
No, never use it where it is wet or damp or expose it to rain, snow, water spray as this could result in electrocution
Can I take this power station on a plane?
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.
Can I use the power station while it is on charge?
Yes. It supports pass-through charging. However, to extend battery life, this is not recommended.
Is the battery user-replaceable?
No, you should never try to replace the battery pack. Attempting to do so during the warranty period will void the warranty.
Can I use this model as UPS?
No, it’s not possible to use the Explorer 500 as a UPS.
Jackery Explorer 500 Manufacturer Specifications
| Capacity | 518.4Wh (21.6V, 24Ah) |
| Cell Chemistry | Li-ion NMC |
| Lifecycle | >500 cycles |
| Battery Management System | Short Circuit Protection |
| Over/Under Voltage Protection | |
| Over Current Protection | |
| Over Temperature Protection | |
| Overcharge Protection | |
| AC Output | 110VAC, 60Hz, 4.54A, 500W (1000W Peak) |
| 3xUSB-A Output | 5V, 2.4A (Max 30W) |
| DC Car Output | 12V, 10A |
| 2xDC Output | 12V-7A (Max Combined DC 120W) |
| DC Input | 8mm DC, 12V~30V (100W Max) |
| RECHARGE TIMES | |
| AC Adapter | About 6.5Hours |
| 12V Car Adapter | About 7.5 Hours |
| SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel | About 9 Hours - 7.5 Hours (To 80%) |
| Portable Generator | About 6.5 Hours |
| Recharging Temperature | 0-40℃ |
| Weight | 13.3 lbs (6 kg) |
| Dimensions (LxWxD) | 11.8 x 7.62 x 9.5 inches (30 x 19.2 x 24.2 cm) |
| Operating Usage Temperature | 14-104F (-10-40℃) |
| Warranty | 24 Months (original buyer only) |
| Optional Accessory | Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel |