Welcome to our complete and in-depth Jacker Explorer Portable Power Station review. Here we take a tried and tested look at one of the most popular solar power stations available to buy. It is our hope this will help you decide whether or not this portable power station is right for you and your personal needs.

Check out the best price for the Jackery Explorer 1000 by clicking here.

Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station Review

Jackery Explorer 1000 – Product Description

Jackery stands at the forefront of green energy storage, consistently impressing us with their innovative designs and high build quality. A frequent presence on our list of best camping power packs, Jackery’s products never fail to deliver.

Unboxing the Explorer 1000 was a familiar experience, exuding the expected quality. Housed within a standard cardboard box, the power pack and its accompanying leads were meticulously packaged in a branded cardboard box, protected by polystyrene to ensure damage-free delivery.

As an upgraded version of the Explorer 500 we recently reviewed, the Explorer 1000 boasts superior specifications, albeit at a higher price point. Despite the enhancements, the product maintains the same look and feel, showcasing Jackery’s consistent “family feel” across their product line.

Facilitating easy portability, a large overhead handle allows convenient lifting of the Explorer 1000. Weighing a substantial 10kg, the power pack remains manageable and practical for movement.

Measuring 33.3 x 23.3 x 28.3cm, the Explorer 1000 sports a sleek, cuboid design with an appealing dark grey and orange casing. The orange padded feet add a touch of flair, contributing to an overall stylish appearance.

Key features are concentrated on a single front face of the Explorer, providing multiple input and output options for charging both the Jackery and connected devices. The user-friendly multi-function LCD display stands out, offering easy readability even in bright sunlight – a notable advantage over some competitors.

Check out the best price for the Jackery Explorer 1000 by clicking here.

Storage Capacity and Power

The Explorer 1000 is equipped with a comprehensive battery management system and boasts 1002 Watt-hours of lithium-ion battery cells. This impressive capacity enables it to sustain a 1000W device, such as a travel kettle (refer to our video below), for one hour. Alternatively, it can power a 50W laptop continuously for an impressive 20 hours – a remarkable feat.

In terms of power delivery, the Explorer 1000 excels in powering up to 1000W appliances continuously. Additionally, it can gracefully handle a momentary surge of power at start-up, reaching up to 2000W. This surge power limit proves invaluable as numerous devices draw more power immediately at start-up before settling into continuous operation.

What can it power?

The Jackery Explorer 1000 is a versatile power station capable of powering a wide range of devices and appliances. With a robust 1002 Watt-hour lithium-ion battery capacity and powerful inverter, the Explorer 1000 can efficiently power:

Laptops and Electronics: Charge laptops, smartphones, tablets, cameras, and other electronic devices.
Kitchen Appliances: Run small kitchen appliances like blenders, coffee makers, and even a travel kettle.
Refrigerators: Power small to medium-sized refrigerators or coolers.
Power Tools: Operate various power tools for DIY projects or emergencies.
Medical Devices: Keep essential medical devices, such as CPAP machines, running during power outages.
Lights and Fans: Illuminate spaces and run small fans for comfort during outdoor activities or power outages.
Entertainment Devices: Use it to power TVs, gaming consoles, or speakers for entertainment.
Outdoor Equipment: Charge electric grills, portable stoves, or other outdoor equipment during camping or outdoor events.
Electric Blankets: Keep warm with powered electric blankets during cold weather.
RV Appliances: Power essential appliances in your RV, like lights, fans, or small kitchen devices.

The Jackery Explorer 1000’s versatility makes it a reliable choice for a wide range of applications, from outdoor adventures to emergency backup power at home.

During this Jackery Explorer 1000 review I tried many devices that were rated as 1000 watts and had no issues with the power station at all. It is good to know that this unit has a 2000 watt surge protection system which protects your devices and the Jackery.

Check out the best price for the Jackery Explorer 1000 by clicking here.

Jackery Explorer 1000 – Inputs

The Explorer 1000 features two input ports: a standard 8mm female connector and a pair of Anderson Power Pole connectors.

The 8mm input is compatible with the 240V AC power supply and 12V DC cigarette lighter power cables provided in the package. Charging from 0% to 100% takes approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes using AC power and slightly longer, around 7 hours, with the car charger. Additionally, you have the option to connect a single Jackery SolarSaga panel to this input, delivering approximately 65W under full sunlight. The charging time in this scenario is around 16-17 hours, which may extend further under overcast conditions.

Fortunately, you can link two SolarSaga panels together in parallel and connect them to the alternative Anderson Power Pole input on the Explorer 1000. This involves using the dual Y-cable included in the package, transforming the Jackery into an entirely solar-powered device. With two panels, the charging time decreases to approximately 8 hours under full sunlight, a manageable timeframe, especially during the UK summer for fortunate individuals. It’s important to note that adjusting the panels to face the sun periodically maximizes the generated power.

It’s essential to mention that you cannot utilize both the 8mm input and the Anderson input simultaneously for charging; it’s a choice between one or the other.

Output Connectors – Powering Your Gadgets

The Explorer 1000 provides various output options for both AC and DC appliances, effectively meeting the majority of camping needs. Notable output sockets comprise:

Two 230V AC three-pin outlets that allow you to power AC devices, provided the combined power consumption from both outlets stays below 1000W. Activating AC power requires pressing a small button above the sockets, leading to a standby power draw of a few Watts, even when no devices are connected.
A singular 12V ‘cigarette lighter’ style socket with a maximum current draw of 10 amps, suitable for powering electric cooler boxes during camping.
Dual USB-C ports for direct charging of phones or modern laptops.
One standard USB-A port with a current of 2.4A at 5V (12 watts).
Another USB-A port with quick charge 3.0 capability for rapid charging of gadgets (36 watts).

The absence of wireless phone charging capability was something I found a bit disappointing throughout this Jackery Explorer 1000 review, although, in my view, the presence of a rugged carry handle atop the power pack holds greater importance than having a wireless charge pad.

Regarding the monochrome LCD display on the Explorer 1000, it mirrors that of the smaller Explorer 500. While not extravagant, it effectively presents input power, output power, and the remaining capacity percentage. I observed that the display performed well in bright sunlight, a feature not consistently found in more elaborate color screens. To navigate the display in darkness, there’s a button to activate a backlight. However, I noticed that it didn’t remain illuminated for an extended period (approximately 10 seconds), which was somewhat surprising considering the ample power available. I also believe the backlight should remain on continuously while the Jackery is charging.

Check out the best price for the Jackery Explorer 1000 by clicking here.

Jackery Explorer 1000 in Use

What stood out during this Jackery Explorer 1000 review was that it proved to be a significantly more appealing power pack for camping compared to the lower-powered 500. The additional 500W of power significantly expands the capabilities of the Explorer 1000, influencing what it can effectively power.

Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station Review

Jackery Explorer 1000 – Charge Times and Solar Charging

The Explorer 1000 faces a notable drawback in the UK when it comes to charging time. When using AC power, the Jackery takes approximately 6.5-7 hours to reach a full charge, a significant portion of the day and notably slower than comparable products from major competitors like Bluetti, EcoFlow, and Anker. Jackery has introduced a new ‘Pro range’ with considerably faster charge times.

While charge time may not be a critical factor in some cases – as the Jackery products can still be used while charging – there are limitations. The maximum power input is around 130W, restricting the use of larger appliances if you want to both increase the stored charge and use devices simultaneously.

The challenge intensifies with solar power, particularly in the UK. The SolarSaga 100 panels provide approximately 65W each to the Jackery, totaling around 130W when used in parallel. However, this is only achievable under direct, bright sunlight conditions, which are infrequent in the UK. Even on sunny days, the changing angle of the sun as the Earth revolves necessitates regular adjustments to the panel angles.

During a sunny day in the UK, I positioned the Jackery Explorer 1000 with two Solar Saga panels under bright sunlight to charge from a 25% initial level. Without adjusting the panel angles, I left the system for 5 hours. By the end, the Jackery reached approximately 50%, adding about 250Wh of capacity, translating to an increase of around 50Wh per hour of charging. While the result wasn’t disappointing, relying on the sun to go from 0% to 100% in a full day under cloudy conditions seems challenging, especially with some power draw, such as a cool box.

There seems to be a balance point where a modest amount of power draw (e.g., a laptop and a cool box) can be balanced against the input power generated from two solar panels on a cloudy day in the UK. While it may pose some challenges, the liberation of having access to free power outweighs concerns about insufficient sunlight due to an overcast sky – a factor of living in the UK rather than Arizona!

For a more reliable solution, having solar panels on the roof of a campervan or caravan appears to be the way forward. This allows the Jackery to charge while driving and not using much power. Upon reaching the destination, setting up the Solar Saga panels can continue the charging process. While it may involve some upfront costs, it likely presents the most effective solution to consistently keep the Explorer 1000 fully charged.

Check out the best price for the Jackery Explorer 1000 by clicking here.

What I like About the Jackery 1000

The Jackery Explorer 1000 stands out for several reasons, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and reliable portable power station. Here are some key aspects that make the Explorer 1000 noteworthy:

Ample Power for Various Appliances: The Explorer 1000 boasts robust power capacity, enabling it to effortlessly run a wide range of appliances. From small electronic devices to larger items like toasters and kettles, it provides the energy needed for a comfortable camping experience.
Rugged Build for Durability: Designed with durability in mind, the Explorer 1000 features a rugged build that can withstand the demands of outdoor use. Its sturdy construction ensures longevity, making it a dependable companion for various adventures.
Optimal Size: Striking a balance between power and portability, the Explorer 1000 is not overly large. This optimal size makes it convenient to transport and set up, catering to the needs of campers and outdoor enthusiasts who value mobility.
Solar Compatibility: One of the standout features is its compatibility with solar panels. This eco-friendly option allows users to harness the power of the sun to recharge the Explorer 1000, providing an additional layer of sustainability for off-grid adventures.

In summary, the Jackery Explorer 1000 impresses with its combination of ample power, rugged design, convenient size, and solar compatibility, making it a standout choice for those seeking a reliable portable power solution.

Check out the best price for the Jackery Explorer 1000 by clicking here.

What I Don’t Like About the Jackery 1000

While the Jackery Explorer 1000 offers a range of impressive features, there are some aspects that might be considered drawbacks for certain users. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Charging Time under AC Power: The Explorer 1000’s charging time under AC power is relatively longer, taking around 6.5-7 hours to reach a full charge. This could be a significant portion of the day, and compared to some competitors, it may be perceived as a slower charging option.
Limited Max Power Input: The power station’s maximum power input is around 130W. While this is sufficient for many small appliances, it imposes limitations when trying to simultaneously charge the battery and use higher-powered devices.
Solar Charging Challenges in the UK: In the UK’s variable weather conditions, relying solely on solar power to keep the Explorer 1000 charged may prove challenging. Cloudy days and changing sun angles can affect solar panel efficiency, requiring regular adjustments for optimal charging.
Lack of Wireless Phone Charging: The absence of wireless phone charging might be a disappointment for users who appreciate this convenient feature in other power stations.
Automatic Backlight Duration: The automatic backlight on the LCD display turns off after about 10 seconds. While this is intended to conserve energy, some users may find it inconvenient, especially when monitoring the battery percentage during charging.

Despite these considerations, the Explorer 1000 remains a reliable and powerful portable power station with its own set of advantages. It’s essential for users to weigh these factors against their specific needs and preferences.

Jackery Explorer 1000 Review Conclusion

In conclusion, my experience through this Jackery Explorer 1000 review left me thoroughly impressed with its role as a progressive step towards harnessing green and sustainable energy for camping in the UK. Despite the weather variability that poses a challenge for solar power in the UK, limiting the Explorer 1000’s ability to rely solely on solar charging, the awe-inspiring sensation of tapping into free energy makes it a highly recommended rechargeable power pack.

Especially well-suited for powering significant AC appliances like toasters and travel kettles, the Explorer 1000 proves efficient for various camping essentials, promising a transformative impact on your camping lifestyle. For optimal performance, I strongly recommend complementing it with two Solar Saga 100 panels. This setup enhances your recharging capabilities through solar power, particularly beneficial during wild camping scenarios without access to mains hookup or traditional generators.

Check out the best price for the Jackery Explorer 1000 by clicking here.

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