Glossary of portable power stations
Every technical term used on our product pages and in our filters, explained in one sentence. We use the same terms throughout the site: if a word trips you up while filtering portable power stations, you'll find its definition here.
- Solar
- Use
- Expansion battery
- Battery technology
- Non-USB DC outputs
- App connectivity
- Built-in transport features
Solar
Indicates how the power station supports solar charging, helping you plan recharging away from electrical outlets.
- Solar charging compatible
- Allows charging from compatible solar panels, which may need to be purchased separately.
- With solar panel
- Includes a solar panel so you can recharge the power station using sunlight.
Use
Helps you match the power station to where and how you plan to power your devices.
- Motorhome
- Supports powering compatible devices while traveling or staying in a motorhome away from electrical hookups.
- Home backup
- Can keep selected compatible household devices running during an outage, within its output and battery limits.
Expansion battery
Shows whether extra battery storage is supported or supplied, helping you plan for longer use between charges.
- Compatible with an expansion battery
- Lets you connect a compatible extra battery to run devices longer before recharging.
- Expansion battery included
- Comes with an extra battery that increases stored energy so connected devices can run longer.
Battery technology
Affects battery lifespan, weight, and heat tolerance, helping you weigh portability against long-term use.
- LiFePO4
- Uses a battery chemistry known for long service life and thermal stability, often with more weight for the same stored energy.
- NMC lithium-ion
- Uses a battery chemistry that stores substantial energy for its weight, helping keep the power station portable.
Non-USB DC outputs
Determines which devices can receive direct battery power through dedicated connectors, with matching plugs and electrical requirements.
- 12 V cigarette lighter socket
- Accepts car accessory plugs to power compatible devices such as portable coolers and tire inflators.
- DC5521 socket
- Provides a round barrel connector for compatible devices, with voltage, polarity, and plug fit checked before use.
App connectivity
Determines how you can connect a phone app to check battery status or adjust supported settings.
- Wi-Fi
- Connects the power station to a wireless network for app monitoring and control, with remote access depending on the product.
- Bluetooth
- Connects a nearby phone directly to the power station for app monitoring and supported controls.
Built-in transport features
Affects how easily you can lift or move the power station between storage and the places you use it.
- Carrying handle
- Provides a grip for lifting and carrying the power station.
- Telescopic handle
- Extends to give you a convenient grip for pulling the power station on its wheels, then retracts for storage.
- Wheels
- Let you roll the power station instead of carrying its full weight, making it easier to move on suitable surfaces.