A solar panel is a modern tool used to harness nature’s most accessible resource and turn it into energy. Today, we’re going to take a look at two long-lasting 100W solar panels by Renogy and Jackery to see which you should get to live off the grid.
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Renogy 100W 12V Solar Panel
100W Rating
The Renogy is regarded as being one of the most highly efficient solar panels on the market. In the first five years, Renogy guarantees an operating efficiency of at least 95%, but as is typical with any solar panel, the efficiency rating decreases over time. However, backed by a 25-year warranty at 80% efficiency, there’s definitely nothing to complain about. Having a solar charge controller (sold separately) will help in measuring solar output and getting an accurate reading.
12V Battery
Like most solar panels out there, the Renogy is shipped along with a single 12V battery. Depending on the total voltage of your battery array, you may need to pick up multiple Renogy panels at once to make the most use out of what you have. Renogy sells these 100W panels in singles or twin packs.
12-hour Charging
The more direct sunlight it receives, the quicker the Renogy will fill its battery. The Renogy is designed to charge the entire 12V battery within 12 hours in ideal conditions, but realistically speaking, it can take anywhere from two to three days to complete the charging process.
Extreme Durability
Not only is Renogy known for making highly efficient solar panels, but the materials that go into their products are of the highest quality. These 100W solar panels are made to withstand high winds and heavy snow loads in extreme weathers short of tornadoes and blizzards. An aluminum frame surrounds the monocrystalline panel and has an estimated lifespan of at least 25 years.
No Mounting Equipment Included
If this is your first solar panel, you may be surprised by what doesn’t come in the box. These panels are easy to install provided that you have picked up the proper mounting equipment. You’ll need a mounting bracket, a solar charge controller, as well as an MC4 removal tool to disconnect any incorrectly fastened connectors. An extension cable would also be nice to place the battery in a more accessible spot inside of your home.
Jackery 100W SolarSaga
Two USB Ports
A huge difference between the Jackery and Renogy is that the former has a pair of USB ports where you can directly charge your smart gadgets. It comes with one 5V 3A USB-C port and one 5V 2.4A USB-A port to accommodate a both standard and quick charging with compatible devices.
Compatible with Jackery’s Portable Power Stations
Jackery makes several portable power stations that typically charge up by drawing power from a wall outlet or car battery. If you get this Jackery portable solar panel, you can also hook it up to your Jackery power station to refill its battery while out in the wild.
You’ll be able to keep your gadgets fully charged while out in the middle of nowhere without lugging big, heavy equipment.
Foldable Design
The Jackery has a foldable design to keep it compact during storage and travel. It opens up easily to begin receiving sunlight and folds closed in a snap for when you’re ready to move. Additionally, because these are portable, they don’t need mounting hardware or external tools to set up—simply remove it from the travel pouch, adjust the kickstand while pointing it in the direction of the sun, and you’re all set!
Not Waterproof
What surprised us most about the Jackery is that despite being a portable solar panel for outdoorsmen, these panels are not waterproof. The good thing is that this panel is roughly the same size as a windshield shade reflector so in a pinch, it can be mounted inside of your car to begin soaking up the rays (if available during rainy conditions).
Jackery doesn’t come out and state this fact, but you’ll see from the paperwork that the recommended method of cleaning this panel is by wiping it clean with a damp cloth. You’ll have to do this frequently if you plan on setting it on the ground.
Renogy vs. Jackery: Which Portable Solar Panel Should I Get?
Seeing what the Renogy and Jackery are all about, it’s safe to say that either one of these 100W solar panels would be a nice tool to have for off-grid living. They both perform identically in terms of efficiency, but they’re completely different in every other way. If you don’t have a battery or portable power station on hand, the Jackery will only be able to charge your phone, whereas the Renogy comes along with a 12V battery to help you get started right after setting up.
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Last Update: 2024-04-26 | Affiliate links/Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
