Difference In Solar Panels?

[rcintx]

I'd like to buy a solar panel so I have the option of charging my Ecoflow River 2 while I am out and about. Ecoflow panels in the 110w to 160w range are $200 or more. There is a slew of panels on Amazon and other sites in the same power range for less than half that. Are there any differences I should be aware of? Any recommendations? The cheaper options of course look great to my wallet but I would rather buy the "right" panel than the cheap panel.

 

[gnel]

What are you looking for, roof panels (rigid or flexi) or foldable ground types?

 

[rcintx]

What are you looking for, roof panels (rigid or flexi) or foldable ground types?

Good catch. Foldable ground type. 2 uses I can think of:

1. charge my battery to run the fridge while camping.
2. charge my battery in a power outage. I'm in Texas, you know sometimes we lose power with half an inch ice...

 

[gnel]

I'm really happy with this 200w panel I bought in October.

 

[rcintx]

Thank you for that. I was looking at a smaller version of that same brand. Good to get a second opinion on it!

 

[rruff]

Foldable ground type.

I have a pair of Dokio portable aluminum/glass 200W panels. Paid $160 for the first a couple years ago, and $75 for the 2nd just last Dec on super sale, both shipped. I do not use the charger they include, and I wired them for 24V, and use long 12ga wires. They typically deliver 180W in good conditions, but I've seen over 200W when they are cool.

Dokio 200W Portable Foldable Solar Suitcase Panel Kit for Camping/RV/C

Multiple Usage Scenarios Camping RV Battery Marine Battery Home Backup Power

dokiopv.com

Note it's 20% off with the code at the top and free shipping, $128. Aluminum/glass panels are generally much longer lasting than the fiber/plastic ones, though they are heavier and easier to break.