BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger Review: Why It's Better Than Ever
"Perhaps a bit large to be truly convenient, but good value and will get your phone, or other equipment back to life in a stitch."
Hey there, fellow adventurers! Jacob Rose here, ready to shed some light on the BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger. Now, before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let me assure you that I won't be showering this review with exaggerated claims. We're keeping it real today!
With over 15 years of testing various technologies, travel gadgets, camping gear, and climbing equipment, I've seen my fair share of chargers, both solar and conventional. Before delving into the wonderful world of blogging, I spent a good chunk of my time in the Hewlett Packard labs, meticulously evaluating new products.
So, let's talk solar chargers. The BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger boasts quite the reputation, and I couldn't resist putting it through its paces. This handy device, equipped with three USB ports, is designed to harness the power of the sun and keep your electronics juiced up on those off-the-grid adventures.
But here's the thing - I promise not to get carried away with grandiose claims. Together, we'll explore the BigBlue's performance, durability, and overall usability, so you can decide if it's worth becoming your trusty travel companion. Let's get cracking!
Features
The BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger features triple USB ports with SmartIC Technology, allowing each port to supply optimal charging efficiency up to 5V/2.4A max. The three USB ports combined can offer a total current of 5V/4.8A. This charger also includes an automatically adjusting current and auto-restart function, eliminating the need to reconnect when passing under shadow or during cloudy days.
With a highly efficient panel, this solar charger can convert up to 23% of solar power into free energy. The special pet polymer surface protects the charger from occasional rain or wet fog, while all the ports are covered by a cloth flap and rubber cover, shielding them from dust or water damage.
Designed with convenience in mind, the BigBlue foldable solar charger panel bag is compact and lightweight. It measures 11 x 7.5 x 1.6 (28cm x 19cm x 4cm) when folded and 40.6 x 11 x 0.2 (103cm x 28cm x 0.5cm) when opened, making it small enough to fit into camping backpacks, hiking daypacks, or emergency kits.
The attached Type C cable ensures wide compatibility with almost all Android devices and some DSLRs. For Apple devices, an additional Apple cable is required. Please note that this solar charger may not fit all laptops, as it requires knowledge of the related parameters of your devices.
With your purchase, you will receive the BigBlue 28W Solar Charger, a 65cm Type C cable, 4 buckles, a user manual, and friendly customer service.
Power Output 28 watts Weight 1.15 kgs Warranty 12 months Efficiency 23 % Waterproof IPX-4 Outputs / Connections 3 x USB A Folded Dimensions 28 × 19× 4 cm Unfolded Dimensions 103 × 28 × 0.5 cm
Highlights
As a digital nomad working in the creative field, having a reliable and efficient power source while on the go is crucial. The BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger has proven to be an excellent addition to my travel gear. With its Triple USB Ports Power and SmartIC Technology, I can charge multiple devices simultaneously, ensuring optimal charging efficiency. The automatic current adjustment and auto-restart function are lifesavers, as I no longer have to worry about reconnecting during cloudy days or passing under shadows.
One of the standout features of this solar charger is its high energy conversion rate. With up to 23% conversion of solar power into free energy, I can rely on this charger even during occasional rain or wet fog, thanks to its special pet polymer surface. The cloth flap and rubber covers further protect the ports from dust and water damage. The compact and lightweight design of the BigBlue charger makes it easy to carry in my backpack, whether I'm hiking, camping, or working remotely in different locations.
Reading the positive user reviews, I was convinced of the charger's capabilities. Users have reported successfully charging their power banks, Bluetooth speakers, cameras, and various other devices with ease. Even on cloudy days, it still manages to provide a decent charge, making it an ideal companion for camping scenarios. Whether trekking through the Scottish Highlands or enjoying a sunny day in April, the BigBlue solar charger has consistently delivered impressive results. For digital nomads like me, who prioritize quality and reliability in our equipment, this solar charger is a valuable asset to have in our arsenal.
Is this the best Solar Charger for you?
Check out our full roundup: Best Solar Chargers for Wild Camping and time Off-Grid
Concerns
I had the misconception that it would store power energy and allow me to charge my devices whenever I needed. However, I soon realized that it only charges when fully open in direct sunlight. This limitation was quite inconvenient for me as I was hoping for a more flexible charging solution.
Another drawback I experienced was that when I placed my phone in the pouch provided, it would get too hot. Additionally, there was no indicator to show whether the device was charging or not. Despite these issues, I did appreciate the ability to charge my battery and phone when off the grid. However, I would recommend using this solar charger with caution, as its effectiveness can be affected by varying sunlight degrees and the presence of clouds.
Should You Buy?
In conclusion, as a digital nomad working in the creative and IT fields, finding high-quality and ergonomic products that enhance my work setup while maintaining excellent quality is crucial. The BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger has truly been a game-changer for me.
The triple USB ports with SmartIC Technology ensure optimal charging efficiency, allowing me to power multiple devices simultaneously at a maximum output of 5V/2.4A. The Auto-Restart function is a fantastic feature as it automatically adjusts the current and resumes charging, even in challenging conditions such as passing through shadows or on cloudy days.
The impressive energy conversion rate of up to 23% has left me truly impressed. Even on cloudy days, I was able to obtain around 40% charge on my power bank over an 8-hour period. This reliability is perfect for camping scenarios or reducing reliance on the electricity grid at home.
The compact and lightweight design of the BigBlue solar charger makes it incredibly convenient to carry. It fits snugly into any camping backpack or hiking daypack, ensuring that I stay connected and powered up no matter where my adventures take me.
Furthermore, the wide compatibility and inclusion of a Type C cable have made charging my Android devices effortless. The panel even charged my iPhone 12 Pro by 50% in just 30 minutes, showcasing its effectiveness even under full sun conditions.
While there have been a few minor drawbacks mentioned in user reviews, such as the phone getting hot in the pouch and the lack of an indicator for charging, overall, this solar charger has proven to be reliable and efficient. With solid sunlight, it has the capability to charge a phone from 0% to 100% within a few hours.
In my opinion, the BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger is an excellent product at its price point. It has allowed me to charge multiple USB devices and even a large power bank without the need for a wall socket. However, it's important to note that its effectiveness may be dependent on good sunlight, as cloudy days can affect its performance.
Overall, I highly recommend the BigBlue Foldable Solar Charger for digital nomads seeking convenience and eco-friendly charging solutions. It may be slightly on the larger side for true convenience, but it provides good value and can quickly revive your phone or other equipment in a pinch.
(Price When Reviewed: £82.99)
Rating
Jacob Rose
4k FollowersTraveller, writer and travel-writer. Often accused of insufficient planning and poor impulse control, but happier for it!
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Top-notch Quality: BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28
The soler panel charged my iPhone 12pro by 50% in just 30 minutes. It was in full sun although it was only April, so I exspect it will be even more effective in full summer sun.
It actually workes.
Initially, I had my doubts about the effectiveness of solar chargers in the UK due to our unpredictable weather, but I was pleasantly surprised by the exceptional performance of the BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger. During my 6-day trekking adventure in the Scottish Highlands, specifically in Knoydart, this charger functioned flawlessly. It surpassed my expectations to the point where I didn't even need to use the power banks I had packed in my bag. Whether it was during lunch breaks or late in the afternoon, I could conveniently set up the charger and it would quickly charge my phone, head torch, and other devices in just 30 minutes to an hour. This charger is truly a brilliant piece of equipment. I wholeheartedly recommend it and give it a big thumbs up for its outstanding performance.
Reliable performance.
I find that the BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger performs admirably when it comes to charging my power bank. I simply plug it in and allow it to effortlessly charge up. It works effectively without any issues, and I often leave it in my window throughout the entire day, benefiting from the plentiful sunlight.
Impressively Good
I have been using the BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger for several months now, and it has been a great addition to my home. I have it conveniently hanging on my window, and I have successfully charged various devices such as my power bank, bluetooth speaker, headphones, camera batteries, and AA batteries with ease. To ensure optimal charging, I recommend using one USB port at a time.
One of my main reasons for purchasing this solar charger was to reduce my carbon footprint and limit my electricity usage from the grid. Even on cloudy days, I have found that the charger still provides about 40% charge to my power bank over an 8-hour period. This level of charging is sufficient for camping scenarios, where access to electricity may be limited. However, I do anticipate that during the 9 months of inconsistent sunlight in the UK, the charger's performance may vary.
Considering the urgency of climate change and the preservation of our environment, I am confident that we will experience ample sunny days to justify the value of this solar charger. It may take longer to charge without direct sunlight, but the long-term benefits of reducing our reliance on traditional electricity sources make it a worthwhile investment.
Exellent for smal devicez
Review for the 'BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger':
Pros:
- With solid sunlight, this solar charger can efficiently charge a phone or similar device from 0% to 100% within just a few hours, depending on the Milli-Amp capacity.
- It features three standard USB ports that can be used simultaneously for charging multiple devices.
- The inclusion of steel rings makes it highly durable and able to withstand rough handling.
- The stitching and overall build quality is excellent, ensuring long-lasting use.
- An LED display indicates the charging potential, although it's important to note that this only signifies light detection and not enough light to power other devices besides the LED.
- The rubber cover for the USB ports offers protection when not in use.
- The charging controller and USB ports are conveniently located within a pouch, allowing the device to be left charging in a container.
Cons:
- The power supply can vary drastically with different sunlight degrees. For instance, a drifting cloud can disrupt the charging process and turn the screen on the connected phone on and off, reducing effectiveness. One workaround is to keep the solar panel connected to a power bank and charge the phone from there on cloudy days to prevent this issue.
- Although slightly heavy, the weight is not as bad as some people might claim.
- Under direct sunlight, the charger can get warm, but it stays within acceptable limits and doesn't become excessively hot.
Conclusion:
In summary, the 'BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger' offers great value for its price. It is portable, although slightly heavy, and has the capability to charge a large power bank within a few days using moderate sunlight. With this solar charger, I no longer need to rely on wall sockets to charge multiple USB devices, including my power bank. However, it's important to note that optimal charging performance relies on having good sunlight, and cloudy conditions may pose challenges. Nevertheless, considering its affordability, this product is a good choice for charging phones, game controllers, Bluetooth chargers, and similar devices.
Amazing BigBlue Solar Charger
I was pleased to receive the BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger in less than 24 hours, especially after patiently waiting for the price to drop to $60. After watching a YouTube video of a user who had been using this charger daily for 3 years, and considering the majority of positive reviews, I decided to make the purchase.
I tested the charger by using it to charge my s10+ for approximately 45 minutes. I was impressed to see that it went from 64% battery to 96% using the included cable. Even though there were a few clouds, I simply placed the charger outside in the garden to soak up the sun, and it continued charging.
The real test for me will be during my upcoming 4-day camping trip. I always struggle to keep my phones, tablets, speaker, vape, and rechargeable pump powered up with my four 20,000 mAh battery packs. I plan to use this solar charger during the day to charge the battery packs, and then utilize the packs to charge my devices at night. I will provide an updated review once I return from camping to let you know how it performed.
High-Power Solar Charger
Putting the phone in the pouch means it gets to hot. Also no indicator that it is charging. Otherwise super to able to charge battery and phone when off grid.'.
Amazing Solar Charger
I recently received the BigBlue 28W panel and as a novice, I was initially unsure about how to use it. However, the user-friendly setup and easy-to-understand instructions made the experience a breeze. This solar charger has exceeded my expectations.
I purchased this panel as a tester before investing in a larger and more powerful one, along with a large storage battery. The BigBlue panel has truly impressed me during my day of testing. Despite the slightly overcast weather conditions today, the results have been nothing short of brilliant.
Within just under 4 hours, I was able to fully charge a 10,000mAh power bank using this solar charger. What's more, it is currently charging three devices simultaneously (iPhone, Tablet, and BT Headphones) without any issues at all.
Based on my experience, I highly recommend the BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger to others seeking a reliable and efficient charging solution.
Mixed Results: BigBlue
Bit disapointed. I thought that power energy is stored and you can charge whenever. But no its only charging once is fully open in sunlight.
Let the sun shin.
I purchased the BigBlue 3 USB Ports 28W Foldable Solar Charger during winter and it has exceeded my expectations. Despite the season, it works perfectly fine. On a bright sunny day, I can easily charge my iPhone, bike lights, and bike Garmin using this charger. Additionally, there is leftover charge to recharge a second iPhone. Placing it in the sun early in the morning with the bright winter sun fully charges my power pack. During the summer, I can only imagine how effective it will be when I am out and about on my bike.
A tip for maximum solar capture is to place the charger outside. Indoors, behind small window panes, it may struggle to produce a full charge. Fortunately, I am fortunate enough to have a south-facing roof just below a bedroom window. I don't even need to turn the solar panels to follow the sun, making it even more convenient.
I would give it four stars for transportability as it does add a slight load, but the effectiveness of the charging capability more than compensates for it.