I remember when power banks were new. They were an amazing development, freeing us from the tyranny of having to be near an AC outlet to charge out gadgets. Next came the power stations. They packed even more power into an admittedly bigger space. Still, we were freed from needing to be near to AC outlets or use extension cables when working outside, or in the RV or camping.
The original power stations were big and expensive, so manufacturers to came up with smaller, more affordable models. Here we have a selection of excellent power stations available for when your budget doesn't stretch to four digits. In fact, every power station listed here is under $400.
Also: 12 rules to follow when using and maintaining power stations - from an expert
What's the best cheap portable power station right now?
I've put over 120 portable power stations to the test to discover the absolute best. My top pick for an affordable option is the EcoFlow River 2 -- right now priced at the crazy low price of $199, it delivers an impressive 600W of power. Plus, it easily connects to a budget-friendly solar panel, transforming it into a cost-effective solar generator. Keep reading to explore my other top-tested selections for the best cheap power stations.
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The best cheap portable power stations of 2025
Show less View now at Amazon While there's a time and place for massive power stations, sometimes I just want something portable-something I can grab and go, toss into a car or truck, and take with me camping or to job sites. The EcoFlow River 2 fits the bill perfectly. It's solid and well-built, as I've come to expect from EcoFlow. It's ideal for situations where you need power but don't require a large amount of it. I've worked mine for months now, summer and winter, day and night, warm weather and freezing, and it just keeps on working! Review: The EcoFlow River 2 is a truly portable power station This has become my go-to portable power station. It's compact enough to fit into the footwell of a vehicle, functioning like an oversized power bank. Reviewers on Amazon also praise this model for its portability and affordability, calling it the perfect entry-level power station. EcoFlow River 2 tech specs: Capacity: 256Wh | Power: 300 watts/600 watts surge | Weight: 7.7 pounds | Connectivity: 6 outlets Outputs AC Output
2x USB-A
12V Output AC outputs 5 Total capacity 5 USB ports 5 Max output 5 Pros Most inexpensive option
Lightweight
LCD screen Cons Buttons a little small for gloved use EcoFlow River 2 Best cheap portable power station overall 2 / 5 Score While there's a time and place for massive power stations, sometimes I just want something portable-something I can grab and go, toss into a car or truck, and take with me camping or to job sites. The EcoFlow River 2 fits the bill perfectly. It's solid and well-built, as I've come to expect from EcoFlow. It's ideal for situations where you need power but don't require a large amount of it. I've worked mine for months now, summer and winter, day and night, warm weather and freezing, and it just keeps on working! Review: The EcoFlow River 2 is a truly portable power station This has become my go-to portable power station. It's compact enough to fit into the footwell of a vehicle, functioning like an oversized power bank. Reviewers on Amazon also praise this model for its portability and affordability, calling it the perfect entry-level power station. EcoFlow River 2 tech specs: Capacity: 256Wh | Power: 300 watts/600 watts surge | Weight: 7.7 pounds | Connectivity: 6 outlets Outputs AC Output
2x USB-A
12V Output Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Amazon This is one of those power stations for when power banks just won't cut it. At only 14.8 pounds this isn't going to break backs to move it, and it has an equally lightweight $239 price tag. But it's no slouch! With an energy capacity of 448Wh held in 10-year lifespan LiFePO4 batteries and a 700W power output (1,000W surge), this can power a total of six outlets -- 2×700W AC outlets, 1×15W USB-A port, 2×65W USB-C ports and 1×12V/10A car port. It's also more than capable of being recharged rapidly. There's a Turbo Charging Mode that can be activated in the Bluetti App that allows the unit to go from 0-80% in 45 mins. Charge it at a more modest pace from a 200W solar panel and this only takes three hours. I'm a huge fan of Bluetti hardware. Since I've started testing the Bluetti AC50B, I have to say that I'm very impressed with this budget unit. Bluetti AC50B tech specs: Capacity: 448Wh | Power: 700 watts/1,000 watts surge | Weight: 14.8 pounds | Connectivity: 6 outlets Outputs 2x AC Output
1x USB-A
2x USB-C
12V Output Bluetti AC50B Great compact budget option This is one of those power stations for when power banks just won't cut it. At only 14.8 pounds this isn't going to break backs to move it, and it has an equally lightweight $239 price tag. But it's no slouch! With an energy capacity of 448Wh held in 10-year lifespan LiFePO4 batteries and a 700W power output (1,000W surge), this can power a total of six outlets -- 2×700W AC outlets, 1×15W USB-A port, 2×65W USB-C ports and 1×12V/10A car port. It's also more than capable of being recharged rapidly. There's a Turbo Charging Mode that can be activated in the Bluetti App that allows the unit to go from 0-80% in 45 mins. Charge it at a more modest pace from a 200W solar panel and this only takes three hours. I'm a huge fan of Bluetti hardware. Since I've started testing the Bluetti AC50B, I have to say that I'm very impressed with this budget unit. Bluetti AC50B tech specs: Capacity: 448Wh | Power: 700 watts/1,000 watts surge | Weight: 14.8 pounds | Connectivity: 6 outlets Outputs 2x AC Output
1x USB-A
2x USB-C
12V Output Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Amazon Portable power stations can get expensive, but this model from Bluetti is a fantastic budget-friendly option, currently retailing for $330. Despite its lower price, it's a powerful unit capable of delivering 1,000W output for regular loads and up to 2,000W for resistive loads like heaters or hair dryers. Yes, it's bigger than my top pick, but there are times I either need more power capacity or wattage output. I've taken this unit with me on many a road trip and it had more than enough energy capacity to meet the needs of a small group for a few days. It can handle charging my smartphone, cameras, drones, and laptops with ease and efficiency. Review: I tested one of the cheapest portable power stations and it made road-tripping a breeze One of its standout features is how quickly it charges, especially with its turbocharging function. In our lab tests, the AC70 charged a device to 80% in just 33 minutes using turbocharging, which is remarkably fast.
Charging the station from a car's 12V outlet is also highly efficient, as long as the battery isn't too drained. This makes it easy to keep the unit powered up during long trips. Verified customers on Bluetti's website have praised the AC70, with most reviewers highlighting its reliability for camping trips. Many noted that it exceeded their expectations and provided a great overall experience for outdoor use. Bluetti AC70 tech specs: Capacity: 768Wh | Power: 1000 watts/2000 watts surge | Weight: 22.5 pounds | Connectivity: 7 outlets Outputs 2x AC Output
2x USB-A
2x USB-C
12V Output Pros Turbocharge feature
Comfortable handle
Clear, easy to read display Cons Some of the more advanced features are only available by using the app Bluetti AC70 Best cheap portable power station for those wanting more power Portable power stations can get expensive, but this model from Bluetti is a fantastic budget-friendly option, currently retailing for $330. Despite its lower price, it's a powerful unit capable of delivering 1,000W output for regular loads and up to 2,000W for resistive loads like heaters or hair dryers. Yes, it's bigger than my top pick, but there are times I either need more power capacity or wattage output. I've taken this unit with me on many a road trip and it had more than enough energy capacity to meet the needs of a small group for a few days. It can handle charging my smartphone, cameras, drones, and laptops with ease and efficiency. Review: I tested one of the cheapest portable power stations and it made road-tripping a breeze One of its standout features is how quickly it charges, especially with its turbocharging function. In our lab tests, the AC70 charged a device to 80% in just 33 minutes using turbocharging, which is remarkably fast.
Charging the station from a car's 12V outlet is also highly efficient, as long as the battery isn't too drained. This makes it easy to keep the unit powered up during long trips. Verified customers on Bluetti's website have praised the AC70, with most reviewers highlighting its reliability for camping trips. Many noted that it exceeded their expectations and provided a great overall experience for outdoor use. Bluetti AC70 tech specs: Capacity: 768Wh | Power: 1000 watts/2000 watts surge | Weight: 22.5 pounds | Connectivity: 7 outlets Outputs 2x AC Output
2x USB-A
2x USB-C
12V Output Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Amazon View now at Walmart Jackery has been a trusted name in the portable power station industry for over a decade, and after testing many of the company's products, I can confidently recommend them. The Jackery Explorer 500 is an excellent choice for road trips where you need reliable AC power. Compact and lightweight, it's about the size of a basketball and weighs just over 13 pounds, making it easy to carry without straining your back. It can also be conveniently charged from a car's 12V outlet, adding to its versatility for on-the-go use. I love how convenient this unit is -- it's easy to pick up and go thanks to the compact design and well thought out handle. Whether you're powering small appliances, charging devices, or simply need a portable power solution for your adventures, the Jackery Explorer 500 delivers dependable performance in a compact package. Right now, thanks to some amazing deals, this power station is available for under $300, making it an absolute steal! Jackery Explorer 500 tech specs: Capacity: 518Wh | Power: 500 watts/1000 watts surge | Weight: 13.3 pounds | Connectivity: 7 outlets Outputs AC Output
3x USB-A
2x DC output
12V Output Pros Lightweight
Easy to charge up from a car's 12V output Cons Only one AC outlet Jackery Explorer 500 Best cheap portable power station for road trips Jackery has been a trusted name in the portable power station industry for over a decade, and after testing many of the company's products, I can confidently recommend them. The Jackery Explorer 500 is an excellent choice for road trips where you need reliable AC power. Compact and lightweight, it's about the size of a basketball and weighs just over 13 pounds, making it easy to carry without straining your back. It can also be conveniently charged from a car's 12V outlet, adding to its versatility for on-the-go use. I love how convenient this unit is -- it's easy to pick up and go thanks to the compact design and well thought out handle. Whether you're powering small appliances, charging devices, or simply need a portable power solution for your adventures, the Jackery Explorer 500 delivers dependable performance in a compact package. Right now, thanks to some amazing deals, this power station is available for under $300, making it an absolute steal! Jackery Explorer 500 tech specs: Capacity: 518Wh | Power: 500 watts/1000 watts surge | Weight: 13.3 pounds | Connectivity: 7 outlets Outputs AC Output
3x USB-A
2x DC output
12V Output Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Amazon Anker has been a leader in the power bank market since the early days of portable charging, so it's no surprise that the company also produces high-quality power stations. If you're looking for a compact, easy-to-carry power station to run low-current devices-such as laptops, chargers, CPAP machines, the Anker 521 is an excellent choice. This power station is lightweight, affordable, and built with the durability and reliability Anker is known for. One of its standout features is the ability to recharge using USB-C, which adds a layer of convenience that's hard to beat. I tend to keep this one for light duties such as taking power outdoors during BBQs and such, but it has come with me on a couple of road trips where space was limited. Whether you're powering essential devices on the go or need a reliable backup for small appliances, the Anker 521 delivers exceptional performance in a portable package. Anker 521 tech specs: Capacity: 256Wh | Power: 300 watts/600 watts surge | Weight: 8.2 pounds | Connectivity: 6 outlets Outputs 2x AC Output
2x USB-A
USB-C
12V Output Pros Lightweight
Handy light on the front
Can be fast-charged when using the AC adapter and USB-C together Cons No direct AC charging, requires the AC adapter Anker 521 Best cheap portable power station for smaller AC devices Anker has been a leader in the power bank market since the early days of portable charging, so it's no surprise that the company also produces high-quality power stations. If you're looking for a compact, easy-to-carry power station to run low-current devices-such as laptops, chargers, CPAP machines, the Anker 521 is an excellent choice. This power station is lightweight, affordable, and built with the durability and reliability Anker is known for. One of its standout features is the ability to recharge using USB-C, which adds a layer of convenience that's hard to beat. I tend to keep this one for light duties such as taking power outdoors during BBQs and such, but it has come with me on a couple of road trips where space was limited. Whether you're powering essential devices on the go or need a reliable backup for small appliances, the Anker 521 delivers exceptional performance in a portable package. Anker 521 tech specs: Capacity: 256Wh | Power: 300 watts/600 watts surge | Weight: 8.2 pounds | Connectivity: 6 outlets Outputs 2x AC Output
2x USB-A
USB-C
12V Output Read More Show Expert Take Show less
What are the tariffs in the U.S.?
The recent U.S. tariffs on imports from countries like China, Vietnam, and India aim to boost domestic manufacturing but are likely to drive up prices on consumer electronics. Products like smartphones, laptops, and TVs may become more expensive as companies rethink global supply chains and weigh the cost of shifting production.
Also: Tariff war has tech buyers wondering what's next. Here's what we know
Consumers may also experience notable price increases on power stations. Manufacturers are exploring options such as relocating production to countries with lower tariffs, but such transitions are complex and may not provide immediate relief. In the short term, shoppers should anticipate higher costs for power stations due to these trade policies.
Right now, it looks like some tech may be exempt from the issued tariffs, but since it's always changing and developing, we are keeping an eye on it and will update you on the latest.
Also: Tariff exemptions for electronics offer a break for tech - but not for long
Which is the right cheap portable power station for you? Any of these portable power stations are great options to provide you with power when you need it -- it ultimately comes down to the power output you need, how many and which ports you prefer, and what price you're willing to spend. Choose this cheap portable power station… If you want… EcoFlow River 2 A cheap, super-portable power station. This one has everything you need and comes in at $239. Bluetti AC50B A cheap, portable power station offering a broad array of ports and a decent power output for just $239. Bluetti AC70 A big power station available for a low price. If you want a lot of battery capacity, this is the one for you. Jackery Explorer 500 A power station that's no bigger than a basketball and ideal for road trips. It's small enough to seatbelt into a spare seat or put in the trunk with the rest of your camping gear. Anker 521 A great power station for those who want to charge their laptop when out and about. It's small, lightweight, can be charged using USB-C, and is highly portable. Show more
Factors to consider when choosing the best cheap portable power station Even less expensive power stations are still an investment, both in money and in the physical space they take up, so you need to be sure that you're buying something that works for you. This means juggling a number of factors. Weight : Bigger isn't always better here. Is the portable power station going to be wheeled from room to room are you going to be moving it from your vehicle to your camp? Do you want something that you cold carry in a backpack for a day?
: Bigger isn't always better here. Is the portable power station going to be wheeled from room to room are you going to be moving it from your vehicle to your camp? Do you want something that you cold carry in a backpack for a day? Battery capacity : If you plan of powering a home from your power station then you want as much battery capacity as you can afford, but for off-grid adventures it's important to bear in mind that there's a penalty here that comes in the form of weight.
: If you plan of powering a home from your power station then you want as much battery capacity as you can afford, but for off-grid adventures it's important to bear in mind that there's a penalty here that comes in the form of weight. Cost : Some of units cost several thousand dollars, while others are a couple of hundred.
: Some of units cost several thousand dollars, while others are a couple of hundred. Charging : How do you plan on charging your power station? Are you mostly going to be using AC power from an outlet or do you want the independence of solar?
: How do you plan on charging your power station? Are you mostly going to be using AC power from an outlet or do you want the independence of solar? Battery Chemistry : Lithium-ion (Li-ion) is the traditional battery technology, but the newer lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFePO4) are safer and have a much longer lifespan.
: Lithium-ion (Li-ion) is the traditional battery technology, but the newer lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFePO4) are safer and have a much longer lifespan. Warranty : Portable power stations are expensive, so I want manufactures to back their products with multi-year warranties.
: Portable power stations are expensive, so I want manufactures to back their products with multi-year warranties. Safety: Every unit I've tested has been subjected to numerous tests, from running for extended periods to check thermal management, to overloading them to see how they handle loads that are too much for them. Show more
How I test portable power stations At the core of this list is a lot of extensive testing of dozens of power stations. I regularly undertake trips that see me off-grid, either for camping or to carry out photography, videography, and drone work, and at these times, I rely on having access to a reliable power source. This is a great opportunity to test power stations under real-world conditions. I also test them at home, both using them to run household appliances, and carry out testing on battery capacity, charge and discharge times, and how they handle overloading. Finally, every unit is safety tested to make sure that it is safe for prolonged, heavy use. Find out more about how we test portable power stations at ZDNET. Show more
FAQs on portable power stations What counts as a "cheap" power station? Finding a balance between affordability and quality in power stations can be challenging, especially with some models priced significantly above $500. However, setting a budget around the $500 mark is a reasonable starting point for those looking to invest in a portable power station without stretching their finances too thin. Some of these power stations are brought down below that $500 mark thanks to deals. These sales come and go, so if you're interested in a particular power station, grab it sooner rather than later. Show more How long will a portable power station last? Manufacturers typically offer different runtimes for things like lamps, refrigerators, CPAP machines and so on, but if you want to work this out for yourself you can need two figures. First, you need the power rating of the device you plan on running, which can usually be found on a label on the device, and is measured in Watts (W). You also need to know the capacity of the power station, measured in Watt hours (Wh), which should be printed somewhere on the device. Let's say you have a device that consumes 300W and a power station that has a capacity of 768Wh, you can get a ballpark runtime for the device using the following equation: (768 x 0.85)/300 = 2.2 hours Note that the capacity of the power station is multiplied by 0.85 to account for efficiency losses. Show more What is the difference between a power bank and a portable power station? Four main things separate portable power stations and power banks: Capacity : While power banks are perfect for topping up a smartphone or tablet, a power station can be used to charge up devices multiple times because of the vastly bigger battery capacity.
: While power banks are perfect for topping up a smartphone or tablet, a power station can be used to charge up devices multiple times because of the vastly bigger battery capacity. Size and weight : Power banks are something you can normally slip into a pocket, while power stations are things you lug about or wheel about from room to room.
: Power banks are something you can normally slip into a pocket, while power stations are things you lug about or wheel about from room to room. Outlets : While power banks feature USB ports, most power stations also have AC outlets for powering powered devices.
: While power banks feature USB ports, most power stations also have AC outlets for powering powered devices. Charging: While power banks are normally charged using a USB charger, power stations can be charged from a number of sources, such as main power, solar, and vehicle 12V outlets. Show more
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