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Rating: 4.9/5
The new Patriot Power Solar Generator AlphaCase Elite and Solar Panel was designed for severe emergencies. It’s nice to have a whole-home solar generator for emergency power during a blackout, but what if you have to evacuate? I tested the AlphaCase Elite for 3 months, charging it in different configurations, leaving it exposed to the elements, and powering all sorts of devices. I’ve tested dozens of similar devices in the same way, and the AlphaCase Elite is one of the best options if you are forced to leave quickly. In this review, I’ll share why I believe this is the best power source to stow with your go bag.
Best Grab-and-Go Solar Generator
Patriot Power Solar Generator AlphaCase Elite & Solar Panel
Buy at 4PatriotsThis AlphaCase Elite was built to power critical circuits, and it’s designed for easy transport. Shaped like a small suitcase or large briefcase, its frame measures 20 inches wide by 17 inches long by 4.5 inches deep, and it weighs 35 pounds. It features a comfortable molded carry handle and onboard (enclosed) storage for the included 60-watt solar panel, LED flashlight, and charging cables. Unlike comparable devices, the design makes it very convenient and comfortable to grab-and-go.
Most importantly, this unit charges fast and produces ample power for critical equipment, including kitchen appliances, medical devices, power tools, and sensitive electronics. A 736-watt-hour lithium iron phosphate (LiFePo4) battery powers the system, with a lifespan of 4,000 charge cycles. It outputs pure sine-wave energy, up to 800 running watts and 1,600 surge watts, through a total of 9 outlets (including USB-A, USB-C, AC 120V/10A, 12V DC, and a 12V car outlet). With the included 800-watt wall adaptor, this LiFePo4 solar generator charges from 0 to 80 percent in less than an hour.
I really like operating this system for several reasons. First, it’s silent. There are no beeps or buzzes when I turn it on, and I don’t hear a cooling fan no matter how hard it is working. I also appreciate the flexibility of the solar panel. It has built-in USB ports that I can use to directly charge a phone or other device if the AlphaCase ports are maxed out. Another cool feature is that the system’s pass-through charging functionality lets me charge the AlphaCase with solar power while it continues powering other devices or appliances.
At first, I thought that the stackable shape might be a mix of good and bad: great for saving space, but tempting to handle carelessly. I admit that I treated it pretty roughly, but the AlphaCase was tough enough to handle the abuse. I stacked it with the rest of my gear in the back of the truck and bumped along rough gravel roads and dirt trails to camp. I left it outside in rain, freezing temperatures, and dry, dusty conditions. None of these things has had any effect on performance. Just like the first day, I push the power button and the display lights up; turn on the outlet ports and they work.
To me, the 4Patriots AlphaCase Elite system puts you a step ahead in emergency situations. It’s rugged enough to handle hard travel, easy to use, and packs enough power for critical devices. I have not seen another system that lets you store charging cables and a solar panel safely inside. There is plenty of additional space to add the charging cords for your devices, too, so nothing will be accidentally left behind. Grab this system in one hand, your go bag in the other, and you can head out quickly and with confidence.
Where to Buy the Patriot Power Solar Generator
Photo: 4Patriots