Which outdoor power supply is cheap and affordable

To help you decide, I tested the efficiency, in a variety of scenarios, of the best portable power stations from Jackery, Oupes, EcoFlow, Anker, Goal Zero, Grecell, Bluetti, Dakota Lithium, Lion Energy, Vtoman, and Oupes. ↓ Jump to the Rest of the Field ↓ What to Know Before Purchasing a Portable Power Station

Bring big backup power with you with these expert-recommended portable power stations, which can store enough power to charge electronics, appliances, and more.

A cheap, super-portable power station. This one has everything you need and comes in at $239. A cheap, portable power station offering a broad array of ports and a decent power output for just $239. A big power station available for a low price. If you want a lot of battery capacity, this is the one for you.

These days most portable power stations, including all those we recommend here, use LiFePO4 batteries, which are capable of holding far more cycles, which is the number of times a battery goes through a complete discharge and recharge, than older lithium-ion batteries while also being less likely to combust.

While a particular power station might claim to hold 1,000 watt hours, the actual amount of usable power you can get out of it is a different story. The best portable power stations also have an onboard computer that shows you how much energy is left in your unit, as well as how much power it's currently using.

Finally, consider the charging time of the power station. Faster charging capabilities can be significant during emergencies or outdoor activities, so aim for models that can fully charge in around 1.5 hours. Considering the variety of charging options available can considerably impact your experience with a budget power station.