BigBlue SolarPowa 30 review: Tapping into the sun to charge your iPhone
Expert's Rating
Pros
- Modern solar cells
- Connection box with three different outputs
- Good solar yield
Cons
- Bulky connection box
Our Verdict
With the SolarPowa 30, Bigblue has succeeded in creating a serious solar charger. The output power is sufficient for small devices, though its small surface area requires the user to pay close attention to alignment with sunlight.
The BigBlue SolarPowa 30 is a set of solar panels that can charge an iPhone and other devices. It weighs about a kilogram (2.4 pounds) and when folded, measures 358 by 225 by 43 millimeters (14.09 by 8.86 by 1.69 inches), so it can fit in a backpack for hikes and other outdoor activities.
The SolarPowa 30’s panels use modern monocrystalline cells with an efficiency of 23 percent (how much of the captured sunlight is converted into energy; over 20 percent is considered high efficiency). The connection box on the rear of the panel set is practically equipped with a USB-A and a USB-C connection. Based on the output specifications, iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, cameras, and other devices can be charged. Here are the output specifications:
- USB-A:5V/3.0A; 9V/2.0A; 12V/1.5A
- USB-C: 5V/3.0A; 9V/2A; 12 V/1.6A
A DC output with 18.2V/1.6A for barrel plugs is also available for users of a power bank. The connection box also houses a protective circuit for connected devices. Because the connection box protrudes from the rear of the panels and has sharp angles, it can get in the way when packing the SolarPowa 30. The solar panel is weatherproof to IP65, but not the connection box.
I tested the SolarPowa 30 in ideal sunlight and charged an iPhone 15 by 30 percent within 30 minutes. When the sun was not quite ideal, it was 18 percent. With the 11-inch iPad Pro, it was around 13 percent in ideal sunlight. At 30 watts, it’s not going to fast charge a MacBook. Of course, cloud cover (or lack of it) affects the charging performance. The ideal use case is when you want to charge a device but don’t need it right away.
A folding stand on the back of the solar panel allows for optimum positioning of the SolarPowa 30. When unfolded, the surface is divided into three parts and measures a total of 668 by 358 by 23 millimeters (26.30 by 14.09 by 0.90 inches). The SolarPowa 30 has good rigidity and feels solid when standing. Eyelets are at the corners if you want to hang the SolarPowa 30.
A bit of care needs to be taken when handling the SolarPowa 30. I found that the solar panel cracks when it is bent a little.
BigBlue includes two charging cables are included, a USB-C cable and and one with hollow plugs. The SolarPowa is also available with 20 and 10 watts.
Should you buy the BigBlue SolarPowa 30?
While the BigBlue SolarPowa 30 is rated at 30 watts, its ability to charge depends largely on your ability to position it in optimally and how obstructed the sunlight is in the area. It’s best used in situations when a device can sit and charge and you don’t need to use it. The SolarPowa 30 is portable, well-built, and can be a handy device for users who are avid outdoor enthusiasts.
This article originally appeared on Macwelt and was translated by Roman Loyola.