10 Best Solar Laptop Chargers And Their Reviews For 2021
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In the last decades, one of the most pressing issues occupying everyone’s minds is the use of sustainable energy sources, and a solar laptop charger is one of them.
The power of the sun is widely researched and used as an energy source because it’s available and easily harnessed.
This type of energy can be a valuable power source for our electronic devices during travels and outdoor activities.
Many of us use our gadgets while camping or hiking, when power outlets may not be available.
10 Best Solar Laptop Chargers Reviewed And Rated
Solar chargers harness the energy of the Sun with their exposed panels, and they convert it free energy.
Using them, instead of the regular free energy source, is a great way to reduce industrial waste and live a greener (not to mention cheaper) life.
Several manufacturers are offering sun-powered charging solutions for laptops by providing different adapters and connectors.
Solar chargers can be used as a direct power source for laptops or used with a battery pack/power bank, depending on the capacity and demand.
1. TOPDC Solar Charger
The TOPDC charger is probably the most affordable solar panel among the ones offering options for laptop charging.
It costs less than 100 dollars and offers relatively good quality for it, which could be great if you have a tight budget.
It has a dual output (USB and DC), so you can charge your laptop and your phone at the same time.
The foldable solar panel board also comes with a 10-in-1 laptop connector, although not this still doesn’t include every laptop type.
For example, some common types of connectors for HP laptops were not among the provided ones.
Compared to similar products, it’s at least 6% more effective in converting solar into free energy.
The TOPDC solar charger has a built-in smart IC chip, responsible for protecting your laptop as well as charging it faster.
It’s proven to work efficiently even in less than optimal conditions (overcast, even snowy weather) too.
The solar panels are fully waterproof and durable when used for outdoor activities like camping or hiking.
If you need more power, the TOPDC charger comes in a higher capacity option too, which is more expensive.
The instructions in the provided user manual are not clear enough, which means that if you are a novice user, you may need to ask somebody for help.
Pros & Benefits:
- Excellent for those with a tight budget
- Gathering solar energy with or without cloud cover
- Foldable and durable material
2. ALLPOWERS Supportable Charger
Another budget-friendly solar charger for laptops, smaller devices, and 12 V generators as well.
Despite being relatively new on the market, this ALLPOWERS solar charger already earned several satisfied customers.
It comes in a lightweight, water-, shock-, and dust-resistant, two-panel form that closes in a zippered bag.
This monocrystalline solar cell shows up to a 22% solar conversion efficiency, providing faster charging than other two-panel chargers.
ALLPOWERS chargers can load more efficiently than similar products, even in a minimal light source, while having verified short circuit protection.
The panel has an adjustable PET stand on its back as well a built-in handle, both making it easy to place or carry it anywhere you want.
The solar panel not only has an 18V DC and a 5V USB output, but a packaging includes the necessary cables too.
Additionally, you can use the DC outlet and a compatible cable for powering your car generator too.
Although it consists only of two panels, it has larger dimensions (even when folded), which means it won’t fit in your backpack.
Taking this into consideration, you might want to use it only while being stationary and not carry it as a piece of excess baggage.
For example, you can get great use out of this laptop charger by putting it in your window/balcony.
Pros & Benefits:
- Powerful yet has a lightweight design
- Comes with handy attachments
- Waterproof and safe to use in any weather
3. CHAFON Portable Solar Charger
A laptop charger with foldable solar panels covering a more generous area, also doubling as a shade to protect your devices from overheating.
It has a dual-port output, providing a higher amount of power for simultaneous charging.
In little to no cloud coverage, the panels can provide a direct power source,although it works the best with compatible CHAFON multi USB cables.
Works fine even in the overcast weather too, you just can’t expect it to charge your devices directly.
The CHAFON portable solar charger is capable of providing up to 40W worth of power, and that is great for short-time use or emergencies.
For more than that, you may want to use a power bank to store power.
For example, the CHAFON UPS battery backup recommended by the manufacturer could be a great option.
Its compact, lightweight design makes it easy to put it in a backpack and carry it wherever you want.
It’s compatible with most types of generators and can be useful as an energy source in emergency power outage situations.
Compared to other solar-powered chargers in a similar price range, the CHAFON charger provides the largest surface and energy converting capacity.
Customers found this solar panel power supply system a reliable device, rating it the best value for your money when opting for a foldable solar panel.
They also noted that the panels of this device are more sensitive to light than some of the similar products.
Pros & Benefits:
- Effortlessly portable due to its ultra-thin design
- Very purposeful, it charges and protects more than one device at the same time
- Proven to be quite cost-effective
4. SUNKINGDOM Portable Solar Charger
The SUNKINDOM solar charger is a mid-range solar charger that is compatible with many devices that have 5V USB or 12-18V DC inputs.
The panels are made from top quality waterproof materials, making them durable in any environment.
More assuringly, this charger comes with a warranty period of 12 months.
SUNKINGDOM is a well-established company in the field of solar energy suppliers that provides customer support and products compatible with this charger.
Producing an impressive 23% solar to free energy conversion rate is quite helpful for providing your gadgets with power.
It has a foldable design, consisting of smaller solar panels that are taking up a smaller space when folded and can be carried easily in the bag provided with the product.
The manufacturer recommends using this device, placing it in the direct sunlight, but cautions against leaving the connected charging device in the heat.
The packaging also includes several different cables, which means it can charge laptops, flashlights, mobile phones, power banks, batteries, generators, and much more.
If you need a solar laptop charger for different types of laptops, the adapters provided with this product can save you a lot of trouble looking from them individually.
Plus, it charges laptops super fast, and afterward, the panels fully recharge in 3-4 hours.
Earned a nearly perfect score from the users (it would be perfect with some clearer instructions), that should tell you everything about the quality.
Pros & Benefits:
- Warranty and customer support
- High conversion rate, which means faster charging
- Excellent reviews
5. AIMTOM Portable Solar Charger
Compatible with devices that require 5V USB and 12V or 18V DC outputs.
Its compact foldable design and superior performance gained the AIMTOM solar chargers a large number of satisfied users.
Although it’s not the cheapest charger, the high-quality materials with a built-in safety system are making the prize justifiable.
This charger is for the users to whom safety is an important aspect when it comes to purchasing this type of product.
The smart charging mode protects your devices from overcharging or overheating and unexpected electrical current changes.
The panels are also water-resistant, but their sensitivity and efficiency depend on the angle of exposure to the Sun.
When used with a compatible AITOM power station, this product can provide an extensive amount of environmentally-friendly power.
Compared to products in a similar price and power range, this charger is proven to be the most cost-effective when it comes to durability.
The provided instructions could be more precise, but the customer service is helpful.
It also comes with several handy DC clamps and connectors, making it compatible for various types of laptops.
Unfortunately, adapters for MacBooks are not included, so you may want to look for a different solar charger.
Pros & Benefits:
- Excellent safety system to protect your devices
- Compact design
- Durability verified by customers
6. iMuto Solar Panel
A very impressive mid-range solar charger with foldable panels, and capable of providing up to a world-leading conversion rate of 25%.
Not only that, but the panels can also recharge pretty fast as soon as exposed to direct sunlight.
And when you are not using them, you can just fold them into a closable bag, and carry/store it wherever you want.
Like similar solar laptop chargers, the iMuto panel also comes with a dual-port output (DC and USB) and appropriate adapters for laptops like Acer, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and more.
According to customers, on a day with an average of 8 hours of sunshine, it can keep up with multiple devices, including power banks, 12V car batteries, and mini-fridges.
Thanks to its durability and not to large design, it can make a valuable accessory for traveling even in the long-term.
Its panels are from fully waterproof PET laminated, high-quality PVC materials, which makes their use safe in any weather or even water sport.
Made with a “less is more” environmentally conscious concept, it focuses more on usability than design.
Unlike with some other solar-powered chargers, with this one, you can’t chain multiple panels together.
The iMuto solar charger also comes with an 18-month warranty, adding to the customer’s satisfaction.
Pros & Benefits:
- Higher conversion rate compared to similar products
- Compact design made to last
- Safe, smart charging concept
7. FTRT Foldable Solar Panel
If you are looking for a highly cost-effective solar charger for laptops and other electronic devices with extended applicability, then this is the right one for you.
FTRT solar panels can prove that sometimes a lot of good stuff can be found in small packaging.
When folded, the panel is smaller than a briefcase, unfolded, however it has quite a large surface for harnessing the Sun’s power.
Compared to products in a similar price range, this one has up to 15% larger surface.
Made with a smart charging technology, it can even identify your device charging it more efficiently.
The technology used to make the panels is innovative, ensuring faster energy conversion, and corresponding with that, faster charging too.
It also has a voltage regulator, which prevents any possibility of damaging your device by overloading it.
The FTRT panel is from durable Oxford material, waterproof, therefore capable of withstanding any weather conditions.
The controller coming with the panels is a little sensitive too, and it is not advised to leave it in direct sunlight, much less getting it wet.
Users experienced fast yet helpful online customer support, which is always a big plus.
Pros & Benefits:
- Larger sun-catching area, compared to others
- Smart charging technology
- Easy to carry design
8. TP-solar 100W Charger Kit
Made for users requiring camping equipment that lasts over 15 years, this kit has it all.
Powerful solar to free energy conversion rate even in low-light conditions coupled with a built-in IC chip for the most efficient charging.
This technology also protects your laptop from any unexpected current changes.
Built from lightweight, yet durable ETFE materials, the solar boards repel water not only from natural elements but from hand-washing too.
Compatible with most types of smartphones, laptops and generators, moreover, comes with various types of connectors and extension cables.
It is undoubtedly more effective than the polycrystalline cell panels, even with less light.
However, some customers did experience a slight decrease in the conversion speed when one or more panels were in the shade.
Designed to complement most power stations, and made with the latest technology, using high quality monocrystalline solar cells.
It’s perfect camping equipment for several people, or if you want to be prepared to provide a more substantial amount of power.
Producing up to 100 W, in the case of natural disasters or any unexpected power outage, the kit can be a lifesaver, and it’s worth investing in it.
Pros & Benefits:
- Water-washable, and ultra-durable material
- Great compatibility
- Produces a higher amount of energy compared to similar products
9. GIARIDE Foldable Portable Charger
Fast charging, with innovative Isolar technology capable of adjusting the voltage and higher capacity compared to similar products.
Thus eliminating the need for additional external batteries, meaning you can charge multiple devices only from the panels.
Especially praised for being incredibly lightweight, yet quite durable, making it perfect for any outdoor activity.
The panel’s material is water-resistant and comes with handy attachments.
It has a built-in short circuit and surge protection, and a system that saves charging time.
Besides the charger, the packaging includes several types of connectors, cables, and plugs, providing compatibility with a wide variety of electronic devices.
In any case, you should always check your laptop’s DC input to make sure the manufacturer provides the right type of adapter for it.
Some users reported having problems with the instructions and labeling of the DC connectors.
The provided cables could be longer, and there could be a little more storage space for them.
It also comes in 2 other sizes with smaller capacity, if you are looking for good quality, but have a tighter budget.
Pros & Benefits:
- Providing up to 80W worth of power
- Compact design that’s easy to handle
- More budget cost-effective compared to others
10. Voltaic Systems Rapid Solar Charger
Considering the price of this product, this is definitely on the higher end.
However, its performance, certified by customers, moreover a 2-year warranty on the solar panel (1 year on the battery pack), probably justifies it.
Made with the leading monocrystalline technology and designed to last three times longer than similar products.
Although the panels only produce 20W worth of energy, the Voltaic charger comes with a 24000mAh battery pack.
The provided battery pack fully charges in only 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Fast charging from the battery ensures that most laptops are charged in less than 2 hours, independently of the weather conditions.
You can charge your laptop at the same time as the battery pack, thanks to the innovative pass-through charging system.
The panels themselves are not too large, compact when folded, and fit easily into backpacks.
Besides the product itself, the users are also satisfied with the excellent customer support provided by the manufacturer.
It shows compatibility with thousands of laptops and USB devices, including USB Type C.
Pros & Benefits:
- Fast conversion and charging rate
- Lightweight design
- Wide compatibility
Things To Consider
As not many people can afford to buy anything without consideration, there are a couple of factors that can determine the right products for every user.
The Price factor
The first and often the most important thing on anyone’s list is the price of a product, especially an electronic gadget.
Or any other expensive equipment for that matter.
A tight budget, or a simple unwillingness to pay more, might drive you to opt for cheaper options.
Now, when it comes to something like a solar panel laptop charger, this might not be the best idea.
Manufacturers more often than not determine the price of a product after the quality of the material used in the production.
If you are not willing to pay for a better quality, you may end up with a (laptop) charger that won’t last long.
The durability & safety factor
Since you also have to consider durability, this comes hand in hand with the price of a product.
If the goal is to use the product for a longer time, in sometimes less than ideal circumstances, a cheaply made solar panel charger can’t be an option.
In the case of the solar (laptop) chargers, you can only really contemplate the ones that have fully waterproof, durable, and safe panels (same for controllers or batteries).
It is one thing if a solar panel isn’t durable, although it is desirable for it to endure harsh weather conditions and handling.
However, a non-adequate electricity converter/conductor can be dangerous, and not only for your gadgets.
Lightning and thunderstorms kill more and more people every year in many cases due to their hazardous electronic devices.
The compatibility & usage factor
Then, of course, there is the issue of compatibility, which in the cases of laptop chargers not always the easiest thing to achieve.
Not every solar panel charger manufacturer provides adequate DC connectors to every type of laptop.
You also have to ask yourself, why are you considering buying a solar laptop charger in the first place.
Chances are if you require a solar charger for your laptop, you could probably use the same charger for other devices too.
Therefore, you might want to look for solar chargers that are compatible with all your devices and opt for the one that can be the most useful for you.
If necessary, manufacturers often provide additional customer support for inquiries about compatible products like cables, plugs, et cetera.
The location & weather factor
It’s also important to consider the geographical location (and its typical weather conditions) of the place you would want to use your solar charger.
First of all, if you are going to carry your charger while doing water sports or hiking to mountainous terrain, you need to invest in a durable one.
Secondly, if you live in an area where natural disasters are relatively common, you should consider investing in a solar charger, and not only for your laptop.
There are several multi-use solar laptop chargers in the mid-range price category that can double as a power generator and can be a huge relief.
Solar-powered chargers can be of great use in an urban area too.
For example, you can put them on your balconies, rooftops, windows, or even car windshields.
The greener life-saving factor
And last but not least, there is the ecological aspect.
With the growth of the human population and some other types of energy sources slowly disappearing, solar energy could be used not only out of necessity but as a conscious choice too.
This way, you could save other resources and not contribute to the production of ecologically harmful industrial byproducts.
If more people use greener options, even more people will follow them, which could be quite beneficial for our ecosystem.
Speaking of saving, by using solar panels and solar energy powered generators in your house or apartment, you can considerably lower your monthly electricity bill.
Finding The Right Solar Laptop Charger For You
The review list above includes only solar panel chargers that have a direct 18V DC port and adapters suitable for laptops.
Of course, there are other (cheaper) solar panels on the market with only USB outputs that may provide a power source for laptops as well through adapters and converters.
However, their use might be complicated for some users, and not entirely worth of trouble.
Why not make your life a lot easier by investing only in one device?
Using one solar charger for multiple purposes can save you a lot of money, which means investing in a solar charger with broad compatibility could be a wise decision.
Besides the financial, using only the Sun’s energy comes with ecological benefits too.
Whatever your reasons are for opting for a solar-powered laptop charger, there is a wide array of choices available.
As with purchasing any electronics, it is always a good idea to take your time considering your options beforehand.
If you suggest another solar laptop charger that’s not on this list, let us know in the comments below!
