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Portable battery packs that you can slip into a pocket or a bag are great. They give us an extra sense of security when we’re headed out for the day, never worrying about if we’re going to need to hit a power outlet at some point during the day because the phone is getting low. Still, they have limitations, and sometimes you just want to have a lot of energy stored up to use. That’s where something like the Anker 535 Portable Power Station can come in handy.
Now, we have talked about larger portable power solutions like this before, so obviously Anker isn’t the only player in the game. Still, when I’ve been figuring out what to buy for my own household devices, if I’m deciding between a no-name brand and Anker, I’m leaning towards Anker for their proven track record.
With the Anker 535 Portable Power Station, you’re getting something that is almost a gas generator replacement. With it’s lithium battery, it can store 512 Wh of electricity inside (and can be charged via an outlet, your vehicle, or even solar panels). While it tops out at devices under 500W (in terms of power draw; so no microwaves for you), it can still power a good deal. Via it’s 4 AC outlets (you know, a standard plug), a USB-C port, 3 USB-A ports, and a car adapter outlet, you can run a variety of things. Such as, say, a 12W electric bulb for 32 hours, your laptop for 8 or so charges, or your CPAP machine for almost 10 hours.
Obviously, what you’re plugging into it will dictate how long the Anker 535 Portable Power Station is going to last. And how much you’re plugging into it as well, since you could theoretically have 9 things plugged into at once (recharge all the things!) Then, once power is restored (or you’re back into civilization from the camp site), you can plug it in and get to about an 80% charge in just two hours.
The LCD display on the Anker 535 Portable Power Station will tell you how that charge is doing, listing out the current input and power draw, and an estimate of how long it’ll take to be fully charged. The fact that they’ve got this setup with tech to properly handle input from a solar panel, and can shut itself off once whatever it’s charging is done drawing power, speak a lot to the design of this lunchbox-sized power station. While it’s not inexpensive at $500, it certainly is something that could find a lot of uses ranging from emergency preparedness, camping, and tailgating (to name a few). They do have a few other options as well, both smaller and larger capacities; you can check out the new 535 and it’s brethren directly over at anker.com
Details from Anker
- Versatile Power Source: The portable power station delivers reliable power to your everyday devices. Run a mini cooler (45W) for 8.5 hours, a CPAP machine (40W) for 9.6 hours, a fan (35W) for 10.9 hours, and a 43″ TV (110W) for 3.4 hours.
- Power Multiple Devices at Once:With 4 AC outlets, 1 fast-charging USB-C port, 3 USB-A ports, and 1 vehicle-class outlet, PowerHouse 512Wh is capable of powering 9 devices at once.
- 6x Longer Lifespan: Packed with lithium iron batteries, the power station has a life cycle that lasts 6 times longer*, is safe to use in the long run, and offers improved charging efficiency.
- Compact and Portable: The power station is compact and provides unparalleled convenience for field work, outdoor RV/Van camping, or even during emergencies at home to keep you connected wherever and whenever.
- What You Get:Anker 535 Portable Power Station (PowerHouse 512Wh), 120W adapter, car charging cable, welcome guide, our worry-free 24-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
