The Westinghouse iGen160s (often referred to as a 155-watt hour portable power station) is a compact and lightweight solution designed for camping, emergency preparedness, and short-term power needs. This portable power station offers a budget-friendly option for those looking to charge small devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and small electronic accessories. Let’s dive into a detailed review, covering its specs, performance, pros and cons, and how it compares to similar products in the market.
Overview: Westinghouse iGen160s Portable Power Station
Key Specifications:
- Battery Capacity: 155 watt-hours (Wh)
- Inverter Power: 100 watts continuous, 150 watts surge
- Battery Type: Lithium-Ion
- Weight: 3.75 lbs
- Solar Input: Compatible with 12-15V solar panels (up to 40W input, not included)
- Output Ports:
- 2 AC outlets (100W max)
- 4 USB ports (2 USB-A, 1 USB-C, and 1 Quick Charge 3.0)
- 3 DC outputs, including a 12V carport
Design and Build Quality:
- Portable and Lightweight: Weighing just 3.75 lbs, the iGen160s is highly portable, making it easy to carry in a backpack or store in a small space.
- Rugged Housing: The exterior is designed to be durable and weather-resistant, though it’s not fully waterproof. It’s suitable for outdoor activities but should be kept away from heavy rain or moisture.
- LCD Display: Features a simple LED indicator for battery level, though it lacks a detailed LCD screen that displays exact input and output wattage.
Performance and Charging Capabilities
1. Battery Capacity and Runtime
- With a 155 Wh capacity, the iGen160s is designed for small electronics and short-term power needs. Here’s what you can expect in terms of runtime:
- Smartphones: Can charge most smartphones up to 12-15 times.
- Tablets: Provides about 3-4 charges for tablets like an iPad.
- Laptops: Can charge a standard laptop 1-2 times, depending on the power draw.
- Small LED Lights: Can power small LED lights (5 watts) for about 30 hours.
- The 100W inverter means that you can power small devices like Wi-Fi routers, camera batteries, and CPAP machines (for a few hours) but not larger appliances.
2. Recharging Options
- Wall Outlet: The iGen160s can be fully recharged from a standard AC outlet in about 6 hours.
- Car Charger: Takes around 6-7 hours to recharge using a 12V car adapter, which makes it convenient for road trips.
- Solar Charging: It’s compatible with 12-15V solar panels (up to 40W input), but due to its limited input capacity, recharging with solar panels can take 6-10 hours under ideal sunlight conditions.
3. Port Variety for Multiple Devices
- 2 AC outlets allow you to power low-wattage AC devices, though the 100W limit means you can’t plug in high-power appliances.
- The USB-C port is a nice addition, providing faster charging for modern smartphones and laptops compared to traditional USB-A ports.
- The 12V DC port is useful for powering car accessories and other DC-powered devices.
What Users Like About the Westinghouse iGen160s
1. Compact and Ultra-Portable Design
- One of the most appreciated features of the iGen160s is its lightweight and compact size, which makes it easy to carry during hikes, store in small spaces, or pack in a car for road trips.
- Users find it convenient to use during outdoor activities like camping, fishing, or picnicking where access to power is limited.
2. Versatility in Charging Small Devices
- The multiple output ports make it versatile for charging a variety of devices at the same time, which is great for families or groups with multiple gadgets.
- The USB-C and Quick Charge 3.0 ports allow for faster charging, which is especially useful when time is limited.
3. Affordable Price
- Priced typically around $100 – $150, the iGen160s is considered a budget-friendly option compared to larger solar generators. Users appreciate the value for money it offers, especially for light-duty power needs.
- It’s seen as a cost-effective alternative to keeping a small power backup for emergencies or short-term outdoor use.
4. Quiet Operation
- Unlike traditional gas-powered generators, the iGen160s operates silently, which is a huge plus for use in campgrounds, residential areas, or indoors during a power outage.
- Users value the zero emissions aspect, making it suitable for use inside tents or enclosed spaces without worrying about fumes.
Common Criticisms and Drawbacks
1. Limited Power Capacity
- A common criticism is the low 100W inverter, which restricts the iGen160s to small devices only. It cannot power larger appliances like microwaves, mini-fridges, or high-wattage tools.
- Some users have found that they quickly outgrow the 155 Wh capacity, especially when trying to keep multiple devices powered for more than a day.
2. Slow Solar Charging
- While it is solar-compatible, the 40W solar input limit means that recharging the unit via solar panels can be quite slow. On cloudy days or with partial sun, the recharge time can extend beyond 10 hours, which might not be practical for some users.
- Users who plan to rely heavily on solar recharging may find this limit restrictive, especially during multi-day camping trips.
3. Lack of Detailed Display
- The iGen160s has a simple LED battery indicator, but it lacks a detailed LCD display that shows input and output wattage or remaining time. This can make it harder for users to track how much power they’re using and how much is left in the battery.
- More advanced users who want to monitor power consumption more closely might find this to be a drawback.
4. Short Warranty
- The warranty provided by Westinghouse for the iGen160s is typically one year, which is standard but not as long as some other brands that offer 2-3 year warranties.
- Some users feel that a longer warranty would provide more peace of mind, especially given the wear and tear of outdoor use.
Performance Review: Real-World Usage
1. Camping and Outdoor Activities
- For weekend camping trips or day outings, the iGen160s excels as a lightweight power station that can keep phones, cameras, and lights charged. Users find it ideal for recharging devices overnight without adding much weight to their gear.
- It’s also great for picnics or tailgating, where you need to keep a few devices powered but don’t want the hassle of a larger generator.
2. Emergency Backup for Short Power Outages
- The iGen160s is often used as a backup power source during short-term power outages, keeping essential devices like phones and flashlights operational. While it won’t run major appliances, it provides enough power to stay connected during brief blackouts.
- It’s particularly useful for charging medical devices like CPAP machines for a few hours, offering a small but reliable backup in emergencies.
3. Road Trips and Car Charging
- The ability to recharge via a car adapter makes it convenient for road trips, allowing users to top up the battery while driving. This feature is appreciated by those who use the iGen160s to power small devices in remote areas without access to wall outlets.
Comparison with Competitors
| Model | Capacity | Inverter Power | Solar Input | Price Range | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse iGen160s | 155 Wh | 100W (150W surge) | 40W | $100 – $150 | Ultra-portable, budget-friendly |
| Jackery Explorer 160 | 167 Wh | 100W (150W surge) | 42W | $140 – $180 | LCD display, compact size |
| Rockpals 300W | 280 Wh | 300W (500W surge) | 100W | $250 – $300 | Higher capacity, better solar input |
| Goal Zero Yeti 200X | 187 Wh | 120W (200W surge) | 60W | $200 – $250 | High-quality build, compact design |
Key Differences:
- Price vs. Capacity: The iGen160s offers a cost-effective option for those who need a small, lightweight power station. It is generally less expensive than similar models like the Jackery Explorer 160 or Goal Zero Yeti 200X.
- Solar Input: While the Rockpals 300W and Yeti 200X provide more solar input capacity, they are also heavier and more expensive.
- Portability: The iGen160s is one of the lightest models, making it ideal for those prioritizing easy transport over capacity.
Final Verdict: Is the Westinghouse iGen160s Worth It?
Who It’s Best For:
- Casual Campers and Day Trippers: If you need a lightweight and compact power station for short outings, the iGen160s is an excellent choice.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those who want a reliable power source without breaking the bank will find this model provides good value for the price.
- Emergency Use: It’s a great backup power source for short-term power outages, ensuring you can stay connected when the grid goes down.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere:
- Heavy Users: If you need to power larger appliances or require more capacity, a bigger model like the Rockpals 300W or Jackery Explorer 240 would be more suitable.
- Solar-Dependent Users: Those planning to rely heavily on solar recharging may find the 40W solar input limit too restrictive.
Overall, the Westinghouse iGen160s is a solid choice for light-duty power needs, offering portability and versatility at a reasonable price. It’s an ideal companion for outdoor adventures and small-scale emergency preparedness.