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Bluetti Elite 200 V2 Portable Power Station Review

Dustin Abbott

March 24th, 2025

I’ve done about ten different Bluetti reviews along with many other power stations over the years, and most of them try to sell you on some kind of uniquely marketable feature.  The Elite 200 V2 has very few marketable features – no special ports (or number of ports), battery swapping or expansion, or other gimmicks…but what it does have is serious storage and power output.  The Elite 200 V2 isn’t sexy…but it sure is practical! It’s the most powerful portable unit I’ve tested, and with a 2073.6Wh, it’s also got more battery capacity. The Elite 200 V2 is going to be a serious asset for camping, overlanding, and backup situations. For my full thoughts, check out the video review below or read through my review notes I’ll share here.

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Thanks to Bluetti for sending me a review sample. As always, this is a completely independent review. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

Features

  • 2073.6Wh of storage (AC180T has 1433Wh; DJI Power 1000 has 1024Wh)
  • 2600W output (highest I’ve tested) | Lifting power up to 3900W
  • Rated for 6000 cycles (17 years)
  • Relatively compact (-40%) | 13.78 × 9.84 × 12.74in / 350 × 250 × 323.6mm
  • Weighs 53.4lbs / 24.2kg
  • AC input up to 1800W (pass through) | 1000W solar input | 2400W combined
  • No IP Rating
  • 5 year warranty
  • No LED light
  • No power brick
  • Good screen with percentage readouts for output and input
  • <15ms UPS switching | 4 UPS modes |Peak-to-Off Peak
  • Bluetooth App and remote control | WiFi

Ports

  • No wireless pad
  • 4 x 120V grounded plugs rated at 21.6Amps (Pure Sine Wave 2600W)
  • 2 x USB-A ports (5V/3A) = 15W
  • 2 x USB-C 100W + eMark chip
  • 12V/10A car outlet
  • Inputs AC (no power brick) and DC7909 style (STANDARDIZING)
  • Grounding connector

Tests

  • Instead of blender or kettle – could run them BOTH (first time)
  • Tested for power outage with full size fridge (30 hours)
  • Standard things hardly phase the battery storage
  • Fastest recharge time via AC I’ve seen (as high as 1804W)
  • Pulled a fast 1446W even in standard mode

Things I Like

  • Huge capacity | Huge Power
  • Noticeably more compact than similar specced units
  • Super fast charge times (1.4 hours)
  • Power lift
  • Greater longevity (new battery tech)
  • All plugs are 20Amp
  • App control
  • Excellent UPS options
  • Better specs and better price than previous generation

Things I Don’t Like

  • No iP rating
  • Would like 240 bridge option for more home backup flexibility

Conclusion

The Elite 200 V2 doesn’t jump out at you because of some killer feature, but I was more and more impressed with it as I used it.  The specs where it matters are next level, and it is a great value at this price relative to the competition. Strong value at $899 USD | 1599 CDN not as competitive. 

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Purchase the Bluetti Elite 200 V2 @ Bluetti Store Canada | Bluetti USA | Amazon | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK

Purchase the Bluetti PV200 @ Bluetti Store  (use Code DustinEB70S for a discount) | Amazon | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK  | Amazon Germany 

Keywords: Bluetti, Bluetti Review, Elite 200 V2, Elite, 200, V2, Bluetti Elite 200 V2 Review, Bluetti Elite 200 V2, Review, Multicooler, 2600W, 2073Wh, Jackery Explorer, UPS, Bluetooth, Solar, Demonstration, Test, Photography, Solar Power, Portable, Camping, Hiking, Video Lights, Back up Power, Coupon Code, Discount, Coupon

DISCLAIMER: This article and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

XGIMI Halo+ (New) with Netflix Projector Review

Dustin Abbott

March 17th, 2025

In 2024 Netflix changed its protocols and licensing standards to be more stringent, meaning that a lot of existing devices could no longer natively stream their content. XGIMI’s existing Halo+ projector was one of those, meaning that now those who wanted to use Netflix had to use either a separate streaming “stick” (like an Amazon Fire stick) or use casting from their phone. So XGIMI is back with a new version of the Halo+ that has beefed up its protocols to get that vaunted Netflix certification. Unfortunately their naming convention is pretty confusing, as they currently are marketing it as the XGIMI Halo+ (New). Alternately you might find it as Halo+ Netflix. Either way, I think we can agree that they could have come up with a better way to provide some market distinction over the older Halo+, that, at least for the moment, continues to be sold as well. Fortunately things take a turn for the better when you start to look at the product itself, as this is a premium portable projector with a lot of great features. It isn’t cheap (about $800 USD at retail, though sales do reduce that price), but it has a lot of great things going for it. You can find my full thoughts in the video review here, or check out my review summary below.

Specs

  • Specs:
  • Compact – 171.5 (6.75”) x 113.5 (4.46”) x 145 mm 2.7” (5.7”)
  • Weighs 1.6kg (3.5lb)
  • LED Projector with 700 ANSI lumens
  • Native 1080P
  • HDR10, HLG
  • Has HDMI (ARC), USB-A, Headphone ports
  • Dual band WiFi 5
  • 16GB internal storage
  • 25,000 LED hour lifetime (17 years @ 4 hours)
  • Standard Google TV menu and setup
  • Can do handsfree voice control with remote
  • 2x 5W Harmon/Kardon audio
  • 59.5 Wh battery = 2.5 hours runtime (eco-mode)
  • Can project from 40-200” display | 1.2:1 throw ratio
  • Has autofocus and auto keystone corrections

Test Scenarios

  • Shared photos with group of recent trip to Japan
  • Movie nights

What’s Great:

  • Seems brighter than other projectors I’ve tested in the 700-900 lumen range
  • Easy to set up
  • Color and Contrast quite good (better color accuracy than cheap projectors)
  • HDR performance is very good
  • Battery life is sufficient to watch a typical movie
  • Premium build (feels VERY tough) and great visual aesthetic
  • Easy to mount
  • More picture controls than cheap projectors
  • Seemed to have no lag when using Bluetooth
  • Decent sound
  • Has standard ¼” threading for mounting on tripod or stand
  • Included tilting stand works well
  • Has basic physical controls on top
  • Fast processor.  Loads very quickly (they claim 6sec boot time)
  • Netflix Certification

What’s Not:

  • External power brick (cable routing can be a pain)
  • Remote isn’t backlit
  • Casting from iOS requires installing app (MagiCast)
  • Defaults to ECO mode when running on internal battery
  • Auto keystone doesn’t always work perfectly
  • WiFi and USB specs are dated
  • Case not included

Conclusion

Projectors like the XGIMI Halo + Netflix occupy an interesting niche.  There are more portable options on one end and brighter options on the other.  But the Halo+ hits a sweet spot for two applications:  1) portable movie watching (camping, beach, travel) or 2) a compact solution for watching in a mostly dim room.  700 lumens isn’t a lot, but the Halo+ seems to be maximizing those, and frankly it isn’t much dimmer than the cheaper unit rated at 1600 lumens that I’ve been using.  There are cheaper options out there, but this is one of the best portable projectors you can get and is well worth considering.

Purchase the XGIMI Halo+ New @ XGIMI US: (there will be a 20% off sale from March 24th-32st, reducing the price to $639 USD.) | XGIMI CANADA:

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Keywords: XGIMI, Halo+, XGIMI Halo+ New Review, XGIMI Halo+ Netflix review, Halo Plus, New, Netflix, GoogleTV, Mini-Projector, Smart Projector, Android, Alexa, NFC, Bluetooth, Review, Demonstration, Outdoor Movie, Apps, Google Play, Airplay, letthelightin, DA, #letthelightin, #action, Coupon, Discount

DISCLAIMER: This article and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Nebula Capsule Air Review

Dustin Abbott

March 5th, 2025

The Nebula Capsule Air is being marketed as the world’s smallest Google TV projector, and it is remarkably small…about the size of a soda can.  It definitely is highly portable, from the small size to the 2 hour of playtime from the built in 34Wh battery.  But you’ll have to be pretty selective about your lighting situation, as 150 ANSI lumens isn’t going to compete with many other light sources.  Is the Nebula Capsule Air worth $400?  That depends on how portable you need your entertainment to be.  Find out my full thoughts in my video review.

For my full findings, check out the video review here:

Specs

  • Extremely small – 2.7” (68.5mm) x 5.5” (139.7mm)
  • Weighs 1.4lb (635g)
  • DLP Projector with 150 ANSI lumens
  • Native 1280 x 720 (supports up to 1080P input)
  • Has HDMI and USB-C ports (NO HEADPHONE)
  • 30,000 hour lifetime
  • Supports HDR10
  • Standard Google TV menu and setup
  • Can do handsfree voice control with remote
  • Includes stand to allow rotating up and down – all the way to 90°
  • Double the Lumen rating 1600 vs 800 ANSI Lumens
  • 5W Dolby Audio
  • CAN BE USED AS BLUETOOTH SPEAKER
  • Can project from 30-80” display (2.5 feet to 7) – Stick to around 45” for best performance
  • Has autofocus and auto keystone corrections

Test Scenarios

  • A projector this small has really one primary case use – portable entertainment in a very dim environment (the darker the better)
  • The picture isn’t bad if you’re using it in a dark room and projecting a reasonable size (under 50”)
  • Other case uses will look washed out.

What’s Great:

  • Incredibly small and portable
  • Easy to set up
  • Autofocus and auto keystone correction works great.
  • Battery life is sufficient to watch a typical movie
  • Can be charged or powered via USB-C
  • Premium build (feels VERY tough)
  • Easy to use BACKLIT remote
  • Seemed to have no lag when used with my Soundcore Boom 2+
  • Decent sound
  • Picture quality is good for SDR or HDR10 if used properly
  • Has standard ¼” threading for mounting on tripod or stand
  • Included tilting stand works well
  • Has physical controls, a remote control, and can be controlled by the Nebula app.

What’s Not:

  • Not very bright (standard for class)
  • Requires optimal conditions to be useful
  • No 3.5mm headphone/audio output
  • No case

Conclusion

Realistic expectations are key.  If you are primarily concerned with portability and toughness and want a fully integrated entertainment solution, the Nebula Capsule Air is surprisingly versatile and definitely gives off a premium feel.  If you want brightness versatility, however, the Capsule Air is not going to be a top pick.  It needs to be used in a fairly dark environment if you want to avoid a washed out picture.

Purchase at Nebula | Amazon | or Amazon Canada

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Keywords: Nebula Capsule Air, Anker, Nebula, Capsule, Capsule Review, Capsule Air Review, GoogleTV, Mini-Projector, Smart Projector, Android, Alexa, NFC, Bluetooth, Review, Demonstration, Outdoor Movie, Apps, Google Play, Airplay, letthelightin, DA, #letthelightin, #action, Coupon, Discount

DISCLAIMER: This article and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Godox V100 Touchscreen Speedlight Review

Dustin Abbott

February 20th, 2025

The Godox V100 is in many ways an update to their first round head flash (the V1) that they released in 2019. This is a modernized and vastly improved flash unit that thoroughly impressed me. This is one the best value premium flashes I’ve ever seen at roughly $350, and well worth your consideration. You can get my full thoughts and demonstrations in my video review, or look at a summary of my findings in this article.

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Thanks to Godox for sending me a review sample. As always, this is a completely independent review. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

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This is the first on camera flash unit with a power output of 100Ws, which is truly impressive. We are now getting into the territory of Godox’s off camera AD series (the AD100), and to have all of the additional controls and options here (TTL, command unit, etc…) in addition to having the receiver capabilities of the AD series makes this an amazing value.

Lets start by looking at the long list of upgrades from the V1:

Upgrades from the V1

  1. Improved airflow for cooling (motorized)
  2. Improved modeling light – brighter and now have kelvin control
  3. New bare bulb head (with modeling light)
  4. Group color indicator – better visual indications (red light)
  5. Automatic wireless sync with new X3 trigger
  6. Improved menu and LCD screen
  7. Fast charge port (Propac)
  8. 1/512th precise manual adjustment

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Things I Like

  • Great metering.  Works well with Canon TTL, but also off flash with my X3 Nikon
  • Incredibly powerful (most powerful flash at 100Ws)
  • Great battery life
  • New screen and menu vastly improved
  • Fits in the case with the fill flash attached
  • Ability to directly charge batteries
  • Fully integrated with the Godox Wireless X system (master or receiver unit, works off triggers)
  • Compatible with a number of Godox accessories
  • Comes with a AC adapter and USB-C cable (not just a cable)

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Things I Don’t Like

  • Sometimes initial sync to triggers still a little mysterious (one tap?)
  • Fill flash is manual only
  • Plastic mounts still feel a little flimsy (V1 holding up fine)

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Conclusion

I’ve gotten a lot of use from the V1 flashes over the years, and the V100 is a really solid upgrade.  Great power output, good battery life, and ever improving TTL performance.  Godox flashes work great, and the V100 seems to work better than ever, with more thoughtful features, better usability, and more power.  A LOT of flash for $349, and a better option than something like the AD100 series if you need on camera flash at times or TTL for a command unit.

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Purchase the Godox V100 @ B&H Photo | Amazon for Canon or here | Amazon (others) | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK | Amazon Germany

Purchase the Godox AD200 Pro II at B&H Photo | Adorama | Amazon | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK | Amazon Germany

Purchase the Godox X3 Transmitters at B&H Photo or Amazon

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Want to support this channel? Use these affiliate links to shop at: B&H Photo | Amazon | Adorama | Camera Canada | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK | Ebay | Make a donation via Paypal

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Keywords: Godox V100, V100, V100C, V100N, V100S, V100F, V100O, V100P, Godox, Godox V100 Review, V1, Portrait, Macro, Woman, X3, Godox X3, Nikon, Canon, Sony, Fuji, Dustin Abbott, #DA, #letthelightin, #dustinabbott, Demonstration, Test, Photography, Solar Power, Portable, Camping, Hiking, Video Lights, Back up Power, Coupon Code, Discount, Coupon

DISCLAIMER: This article and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Yaber K3 Smart Projector Review

Dustin Abbott

January 6th, 2025

Last year I reviewed the popular Yaber K2S smart projector.  It was great in a lot of ways, but now Yaber is back with something even better. They’ve released the next generation of their projector, the K3, and the operative word here is MORE.  More smart integration, more brightness, more volume, and a bit more cost…though fortunately that’s the smallest increase at just $100.

Here’s a quick rundown of the standout features:

  • Double the Lumen rating 1600 vs 800 ANSI Lumens
  • 50% more sound – Dual 15W JBL speakers that produce surprisingly full sound
  • PRO VERSION adds SUB (SEPARATE)
  • CAN BE USED AS BLUETOOTH SPEAKER
  • No separate dongle (and two remotes!) – full Google TV integration
  • Simple setup – just like any other Google TV – will match other setups – 7000+ Apps
  • Can do handsfree voice control with remote
  • 1080P 60Hz native display (supports 4K)
  • Can project from 40-200” display (3.5 feet to 17’ – can achieve maximum size in a smaller area)
  • WiFi 6 Compatible (faster, lower latency)
  • Quiet mode – just 28 decibels.
  • Compatible with a wide range of video files (connect USB drive to USB-A or USB-C port)  MP4/MKV/WMV/3GP/VOB/TP/TS/DAT/MOV/FLV/TRP/4K H.264/H.265(≤30fps)
  • Ports = HDMI x 2, USB-A, USB-C, Ethernet
  • Claims lasts up to 30,000 hours

For my full findings, check out the video review here:

You can see from the image above that the new K3 is able to throw a bigger, brighter, more detailed image from the same distance as the K2S.

What’s Great:

  • Easy to set up
  • Autofocus and auto keystone correction works great.
  • Bright enough for tested applications (covering 100” screen) in dim conditions (can look a little washed out)
  • Just one remote!
  • Great sound
  • Eliminated Bluetooth lag
  • Menu navigation is pretty simple

What’s Not:

  • No case
  • Bigger and heavier than K2S (5.1 vs 3.2kg)
  • Doesn’t fit in previous case
  • Image at 100” screen size can get a little washed out looking

Conclusion

The only real negatives to the Yaber K3 is that it is a little bigger, a little heavier, and little more expensive, but everything else is all positive. It’s “smarter” than before, easier to set up, and does a great job with auto correction, focus, and just generally working. The picture is much brighter, colors are richer, and even the sound is better. It’s a lot of projector for the money, and the user reviews seem to back that up. If you want even bigger sound, you can choose the Yaber K3 Pro model, which adds an additional subwoofer that seamlessly syncs into the system.

Purchase at Amazon https://amzn.to/3W5kNoA (use code 222D2TCS for 10% off) or Amazon Canada https://amzn.to/4gmcLzG

Want to support this channel? Use these affiliate links to shop at: B&H Photo | Amazon | Adorama | Camera Canada | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK | Ebay | Make a donation via Paypal

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Keywords: Yaber, K3, Google TV, Yaber K3 Review, K3 Pro, 1600 Lumens, K2S, K2, K2S Pro, Projector, Yaber K2S Review, Yaber K2 Review, Smart Projector, Android, Alexa, NFC, Bluetooth, Review, Demonstration, Outdoor Movie, Apps, Google Play, Airplay, letthelightin, DA, #letthelightin, #action, Coupon, Discount

DISCLAIMER: This article and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Godox AD200 Pro II Pocket Flash Review

Dustin Abbott

December 12th, 2024

The Godox AD200 Pro II is an update to Godox’s Popular AD200 Pro “pocket” flash that blends portability with relatively high power (200Ws output) that I reviewed in 2019.  The new MK II version has a lot of key upgrades to make the flash more versatile and more easily controllable, and comes at the same price of $349 USD as the previous model. It is worth buying, or even upgrading to? That’s what I explore in the video review. You can also look at a summary of my findings in this article.

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Thanks to Godox for sending me a review sample. As always, this is a completely independent review. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

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The AD200 Pro II has the SHAPE of an on-camera flash, but will require a flash trigger to control – optimized for use with Godox’s new X3 triggers but will work with older triggers, too. I did two portrait sessions using Nikon for the first time with a Godox setup, utilizing the Nikon Z8 with the Nikkor Z 50mm F1.4 for one, and then the Z8 with the upcoming Laowa Tilt/Shift 55mm F2.8 Macro for another (an amazing lens, by the way!). I also tested the AD200 Pro II with an older X-ProS trigger and the Sony Alpha 1 along with the Sirui Aurora 85mm F1.4 lens. Here are some photos from these shoots:

The results were what I’ve come to expect from Godox. Good power, reliable triggering, and lighting that just generally works. But that was true of the AD200 Pro as well, so what has actually changed?

Upgrades from AD200 Pro

  1. Improved airflow for cooling (motorized)
  2. Improved modeling light – brighter and now have kelvin control
  3. New bare bulb head (with modeling light)
  4. Group color indicator – better visual indications (red light)
  5. Automatic wireless sync with new X3 trigger
  6. Improved menu and LCD screen
  7. Fast charge port (Propac)
  8. 1/512th precise manual adjustment

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Things I Like

  • New screen and vastly improved menu
  • Like the much improved versatility of the modeling lights | both the Fresnel and Bare Bulb heads are improved.
  • Better cooling
  • Improved charging setup

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Things I Don’t Like

  • Shape means that you have to use clunky adapters to get to Bowens mount
  • Changes to heads for cooling means that existing modifiers won’t work.
  • Powered fan means that you need to let it run instead of powering it off to cool it.

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Conclusion

I’m still not sure I would call this a “pocket flash”, but the AD200 Pro II has a vastly improved interface and functionality.   If you are already familiar with working with the existing AD200 Pro, I’m not sure an upgrade is warranted as this is still the same flash and output at heart…and your existing modifiers may not work.  But this remains a great option if you are starting fresh, as it not only competes on output and price, but now the AD200 Pro II is also competitive with its feature list and handling as well.

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Purchase the Godox AD200 Pro II at B&H Photo | Adorama | Amazon | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK | Amazon Germany

Purchase the Godox X3 Transmitters at B&H Photo or Amazon

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Want to support this channel? Use these affiliate links to shop at: B&H Photo | Amazon | Adorama | Camera Canada | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK | Ebay | Make a donation via Paypal

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Keywords: AD200 Pro II, AD 200, AD200, Pro, II, Godox, Pro II, Portrait, Macro, Woman, X3, Godox X3, Nikon, Canon, Sony, Fuji, Dustin Abbott, #DA, #letthelightin, #dustinabbott, Demonstration, Test, Photography, Solar Power, Portable, Camping, Hiking, Video Lights, Back up Power, Coupon Code, Discount, Coupon

DISCLAIMER: This article and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Bluetti Handsfree 2 Portable Power Backpack Review

Dustin Abbott

December 9th, 2024

Portable power stations are all about getting power off grid.  But the Bluetti Handsfree 2 takes it to the next level by incorporating a 512Wh battery pack with a 700W inverter into a 60L backpack.  You can have both AC and DC power in abundance right on your back.  But, of course, big batteries aren’t light, so you’ll be starting with 16.5lbs (7.5kg) on your back before you store anything else in there.  Does this whole concept make sense?  Find out in my video review below or by reading my review notes in this article here.

There’s no question that this is an intriguing concept on paper, but does it hold up in actual use?

Power Station Specs

  • Current price = $399 USD
  • REMOVABLE Power station
  • 512Wh battery storage | Lithium Iron Phosphate)
  • rated for 4000 charge cycles to 80% (More than ten years of daily full recharge cycles) 
  • 700W inverter with 1200W lifting power (lasts for quite a while)
  • Has Bluetti powerlift technology for running certain higher draw items
  • AC Charge up to 600W (45 minutes to 80% or 1.3 hours to 100%)
  • Can charge via car input (12v 5.8 hours or 3.1 hours at 24V)
  • Can charge via solar up to 350W via XT60 in 2 hours
  • No IP Rating, but rain hood in backpack.
  • About 16.5 lbs / 7.5kg |
  • 305 (L) x 105 (W) x 385mm (D)
  • Screen is small, but clear and bright
  • 5 year warranty
  • Bluetooth app control
  • UPS mode and power passthrough
  • Includes backpack, power station, AC and solar charging cables
  • Can get a combo with portable solar panel that can attach to the backpack.

Ports

  • 5 total ports
  • AC x 1 (700W)
  • USB-C x 2 (100W)
  • USB-A x 2 (15W)

Backpack Specs and Features

  • 60L (backpack itself weighs just 5 pounds)
  • Well designed zips for access to power station (hold out of the way)
  • Some rubberized protection
  • Backpack designed for up to 30kg load (22.5kg – 50 pounds)
  • Essentially four layers – rear section where the power station goes + more storage
  • Photography and laptop section
  • Free section for other clothing or gear
  • Outer pockets and attachment points.
  • Built in waist pouch
  • Splash-resistant fabric, waterproof zippers, plus rain cover.

Tests

  • Demonstrate power lift with kettle (tea, coffee, oatmeal)
  • Good charge rates
  • Can charge photography gear or other tech on the move
  • Could run things like my blender for a smoothie because it can run at peak output for nearly 45 seconds.

Things I Like

  • Not light, but easiest way to carry power to a campsite
  • Well executed backpack
  • A lot of storage
  • Useful amount of inverter power
  • Powerlift technology extends usefulness
  • Good charging speeds

Things I Don’t Like

  • Current battery technology = heavy
  • Photography section is fairly shallow

Conclusion

The Bluetti Handsfree 2 backpack power station is a great idea to take portable power to the next level.  I suspect that future technology will probably make this first generation seem clumsy and bigger than necessary, but it’s still pretty cool in the present tense.   This only makes sense, however, if you really need this specific case use.  Do you need to use a backpack to get to an inaccessible destination?  If not, a more conventional power station probably makes more sense.

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Purchase the Bluetti Handsfree 2 @ Bluetti USA | Amazon | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK

Keywords: Bluetti, Bluetti Review, Bluetti Handsfree 2, Hands Free, Handsfree, Review, 60L, 700W, 512Wh, Jackery Explorer, UPS, Bluetooth, Solar, Demonstration, Test, Photography, Solar Power, Portable, Camping, Hiking, Video Lights, Back up Power, Coupon Code, Discount, Coupon

DISCLAIMER: This article and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Anker SOLIX C300 DC Power Station Review

Dustin Abbott

September 9th, 2024

Big portable power stations are great if you’re trying to recreate your home while out camping or overlanding, but many people aren’t looking for an extra 30 pounds to lug around and just want to charge their phones or tablets…and maybe get some light.  The Anker SOLIX C300 DC abandons the AC inverter component of many power stations and instead provides a really high end compact DC solution.  It can not only charge a lot of things, but also has a really great multistage light that can replace packing along a lantern for your tent.  At $170 USD, it is fairly affordable, too, but is it worth buying? You can get my full thoughts in the video review below, or check out my review notes in this article.

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Thanks to SOIX for sending me a review sample. As always, this is a completely independent review. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

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Features

  • Price = $169.99
  • 288Wh battery storage | LFP Cells
  • 90,000 mAh
  • 300W output (via DC outputs)
  • rated for 4000 charge cycles to 70% (More than ten years of daily full recharge cycles) 
  • 3 Stage Pop-up LED light works lantern style as it can be hung by handle
  • Charging is done via USB-C (up to 280W fast charge by using two 140W PD 3.1 inputs)
  • Can charge via car input (cigarette lighter)
  • Can charge via solar up to 100W (32V) input via XT60
  • No IP Rating
  • About 6 lbs / 2.8kg |
  • 200 x 124 x 120mm mm
  • Carry Strap
  • Screen is small, but clear and bright
  • 3 year warranty
  • Bluetooth / WiFi app control and monitoring

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Ports

  • 7 total ports!
  • 2x USB-C 140W
  • 1x USB-C 100W
  • 1x USB-C 15W
  • 2x USB-A ports 12W
  • 1 x Car Charger/cigarette lighter 120W
  • No wireless pad
  • No AC
  • AC version available (+$60, a bit bigger and heavier) *Prices in the comparison below shown in Canadian dollars. US prices are about $70 cheaper.

Tests

  • Many of my typical tests are on the AC side of things
  • Seems to be able to charge my phone and cameras with minimal hit to the battery (18x, according to SOLIX)
  • Put out full 60W to laptop to charge
  • You have to use higher powered cables to achieve full 140W charging time.

Things I Like

  • Tons of DC ports – more focused (Jackery Explorer 300 by companion has just 1 USB-C 60W and two USB-A ports)
  • Pop up dome light is bright enough to be useful to light up a tent.
  • Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
  • Very small, light, and portable
  • USB-C ports are delivering at the highest current standard
  • Price is very affordable

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Things I Don’t Like

  • No iP rating
  • Would have liked to see an AC adapter brick included

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Conclusion

The Anker SOLIX C300 DC is a great idea, as it focuses on what a lot of people need rather than trying to do everything.  That allows it be smaller, lighter, cheaper, and much versatile than competing units that also have an AC inverter, and if you want that, you can get the C300 with inverter for just $60 more.  Great value here in Canada at $239 – more than $120 cheaper than the Jackery Explorer 300, which is also 1 pound heavier, requires an external charging brick, and has just one USB-C port rated at only 60W. US price of $170 is a great value as well.

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Purchase the SOLIX C300 @ Anker | B&H | Amazon | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK | Amazon Germany

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Keywords: C300, Anker, SOLIX, C300 DC, Anker SOLIX C300 DC, Jackery Explorer, UPS, Bluetooth, Solar, Demonstration, Test, Photography, Solar Power, Portable, Camping, Hiking, Video Lights, Back up Power, Coupon Code, Discount, Coupon

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