Flashfish Solar Generators are popular in the portable power market for their affordability, lightweight design, and ease of use. They are often used for camping, road trips, and as a backup power source for small electronic devices during emergencies. Flashfish offers a range of models, from smaller units designed for charging devices like smartphones and tablets to more powerful options that can handle larger appliances.
Here’s a detailed review focusing on some of the most popular models, their specs, strengths, and user feedback.
Overview of Popular Flashfish Solar Generators
1. Flashfish E200
- Battery Capacity: 151 watt-hours (Wh)
- Inverter Power: 200 watts continuous, 250 watts surge
- Battery Type: Lithium-Ion
- Weight: About 4.1 lbs
- Solar Input: 18V/50W maximum input with compatible solar panels
- Output Ports: 2 AC outlets, 2 DC ports, 3 USB ports (one with Quick Charge 3.0)
2. Flashfish A301
- Battery Capacity: 292 watt-hours (Wh)
- Inverter Power: 300 watts continuous, 350 watts surge
- Battery Type: Lithium-Ion
- Weight: About 5.6 lbs
- Solar Input: 18V/60W maximum input with compatible solar panels
- Output Ports: 3 AC outlets, 2 DC ports, 3 USB ports, and 1 USB-C PD port.
3. Flashfish G300
- Battery Capacity: 222 watt-hours (Wh)
- Inverter Power: 300 watts continuous, 350 watts surge
- Battery Type: Lithium-Ion
- Weight: About 5.5 lbs
- Solar Input: 18V/50W maximum input with compatible solar panels
- Output Ports: 2 AC outlets, 2 DC ports, 3 USB ports (one with Quick Charge 3.0).
Key Features of Flashfish Solar Generators
1. Lightweight and Portable Design
- One of the biggest selling points of Flashfish solar generators is their compact size and low weight. The E200, for example, weighs just 4.1 lbs, making it extremely easy to carry around.
- This makes them ideal for camping trips, road trips, and outdoor activities where you need a portable power source without the burden of heavy equipment.
2. User-Friendly Operation
- Flashfish solar generators are designed to be plug-and-play. Most models have simple interfaces with easy-to-read LED displays showing battery levels and power usage.
- They include multiple ports for charging a variety of devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, small fans, and portable lights.
3. Solar Charging Capability
- These units can be charged using 18V solar panels (up to 50W or 60W), making them suitable for off-grid charging. However, it’s important to note that their solar input capacity is relatively low compared to larger generators.
- The G300 and E200 can recharge using Flashfish-branded or compatible solar panels, typically taking 5-8 hours in full sunlight to recharge fully.
4. Affordable Price Point
- Flashfish generators are known for their affordable pricing compared to larger and more powerful models on the market. For instance:
- The Flashfish E200 is typically priced around $120 – $160.
- The G300 ranges between $180 – $220, making it accessible to those on a budget who still want a reliable portable power solution.
What Users Like About Flashfish Solar Generators
1. Portability for Travel and Camping
- Reviewers frequently highlight the lightweight design as a major benefit, particularly for hiking, backpacking, and camping. Unlike larger solar generators, these units can be easily packed in a bag or carried by hand without much effort.
- Size matters for those looking for a power solution that can be easily taken on the go, and Flashfish delivers on that front.
2. Value for Money
- Many users appreciate the cost-effectiveness of Flashfish models, especially given their range of outputs and versatility. You get a good balance of power, portability, and price, which makes it an attractive option for beginners or those who don’t need high-capacity power.
- This makes Flashfish generators ideal for those who need backup power for small electronics without investing in more expensive models like Jackery or EcoFlow.
3. Versatility of Outputs
- With a mix of AC outlets, USB ports, and DC outputs, Flashfish generators can charge multiple devices at the same time. This versatility is highly valued by users who need to keep a range of devices powered during outdoor activities.
- The inclusion of Quick Charge 3.0 USB ports and USB-C PD (on some models like the A301) allows for faster charging of modern devices.
Common Criticisms and Drawbacks
1. Limited Battery Capacity
- The main drawback noted in reviews is the limited battery capacity of models like the E200 (151 Wh) and G300 (222 Wh). These units are not designed to run larger appliances or provide long-term power.
- For example:
- The G300 can charge a smartphone about 15-20 times, but it can only power a laptop for around 4-5 hours or a small fan for 6-8 hours before needing a recharge.
- This makes them more suitable for short trips or single-day outings rather than extended stays without power.
2. Slow Solar Charging Time
- Due to the low solar input capacity (up to 50W or 60W), charging with solar panels can take 5-8 hours or more under ideal conditions.
- Users note that on cloudy days or with intermittent sunlight, it may take 10+ hours to recharge, which can be inconvenient if you need continuous power.
- This makes them less ideal for long-term off-grid use unless paired with a suitable solar panel and good weather conditions.
3. Limited Surge Capacity
- Flashfish generators have modest surge capacities (250W-350W), which limits their ability to handle devices that require a high startup surge, like larger refrigerators or power tools.
- While they are great for charging electronics, they are not suitable for running appliances with significant power needs.
Performance Review: Real-World Usage
1. For Camping and Outdoor Activities
- E200 and G300: Ideal for charging smartphones, cameras, small LED lights, and even mini coolers for a few hours. Campers appreciate being able to charge devices overnight without needing to find an outlet.
- A301: With a slightly larger capacity, the A301 is suitable for charging more power-hungry devices like drones or portable projectors during outdoor adventures.
2. Home Backup for Small Devices
- Short Power Outages: Users mention that these models can be useful during short power outages to keep essential devices like Wi-Fi routers, phones, and LED lights running for a few hours.
- However, for those who need to keep appliances like a CPAP machine running overnight, the limited capacity may fall short.
Comparison with Competitors
| Model | Capacity | Inverter Power | Solar Input | Price Range | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flashfish E200 | 151 Wh | 200W (250W surge) | 50W | $120 – $160 | Extremely lightweight, very portable |
| Flashfish G300 | 222 Wh | 300W (350W surge) | 50W | $180 – $220 | Small size, versatile ports |
| Jackery Explorer 240 | 240 Wh | 200W (400W surge) | 60W | $200 – $250 | Brand reputation, rugged design |
| Anker 521 PowerHouse | 256 Wh | 200W (400W surge) | 65W | $230 – $300 | Compact, efficient solar charging |
Key Differences:
- Price vs. Capacity: Flashfish models are more affordable compared to Jackery or Anker with similar capacities, making them a great budget option.
- Weight: Flashfish models are among the lightest, making them easier to carry compared to heavier alternatives.
- Build Quality: Jackery and Anker are known for slightly more rugged builds, which might be better for those seeking durability for tough outdoor conditions.
Final Verdict: Is Flashfish Worth It?
Flashfish Solar Generators are a great choice if you are looking for a budget-friendly, lightweight power solution for camping, road trips, or short-term emergency power. Their affordable pricing, portable design, and ease of use make them ideal for beginners and those who need to power small devices.
However, if you need more capacity for running larger appliances or extended off-grid living, you might want to explore models with higher capacity like Jackery or EcoFlow.