Anker 535 vs Jackery 500: A Comprehensive Comparison

In today’s world, portable power stations are an essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts, RV owners, and anyone in need of reliable backup power during emergencies. Two of the most popular options on the market are the Anker 535 Portable Power Station and the Jackery Explorer 500. These power stations provide convenient energy solutions for camping, road trips, and even home use. While both models offer impressive features, they cater to slightly different needs, and choosing the right one depends on various factors like battery capacity, portability, charging options, and longevity. In this comparison, we’ll break down the key features, pros, and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.

1. Anker 535 Portable Power Station

The Anker 535 Portable Power Station is an impressive and reliable energy solution designed for outdoor adventures and home use alike. Featuring a 512Wh LiFePO4 battery pack, it delivers a long-lasting performance with a remarkable 3000 charge cycle lifespan, which is six times longer than traditional lithium-ion batteries. This power station’s versatile 9-port design—comprising 4 AC outlets, 3 USB-A ports, a USB-C port, and a car outlet—ensures you can charge a wide range of devices, from laptops to refrigerators. The added convenience of a USB-C PD output allows you to rapidly charge devices, such as laptops, in under 2.5 hours. With a robust design, it’s built to withstand harsh environments, making it a reliable companion for camping, RVs, or emergency situations.

One of the standout features of this power station is its longevity. While typical power stations last for a couple of years, the Anker 535 is designed to provide power for up to 10 years, backed by a 5-year warranty. It is well-suited for both residential and outdoor use, thanks to its portability and durability. However, some users have questioned its value for money, considering its capacity may not be sufficient for more energy-intensive appliances.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. 512Wh capacity for versatile charging.
2. 3000 charge cycle lifespan with LiFePO4 battery.
3. 9 ports, including 4 AC outlets, 3 USB-A, and 1 USB-C.
4. Fast charging via USB-C, 80% in under 2.5 hours.
5. Durable and drop-proof design for outdoor use.

Pros:

1. Long-lasting battery with up to 10 years of use.
2. Fast charging capabilities for laptops and other devices.
3. Compact and portable for easy transport.
4. Versatile power options with multiple ports.
5. 5-year warranty for peace of mind.

Cons:

1. May not be powerful enough for high-energy appliances.

2. Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500

The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 is a reliable and compact solution for anyone in need of portable power during outdoor adventures or emergencies. With a 518Wh lithium-ion battery, this power station offers a solid capacity to keep devices powered for extended periods. It is equipped with multiple output options, including a 110V AC outlet (500W continuous, 1000W peak), 3 USB-A ports, and 2 DC ports, allowing users to charge everything from laptops to small appliances. Weighing just 13.3 pounds and featuring a convenient handle, the Explorer 500 is easy to carry around, making it a great option for camping, road trips, or as a home backup.

One of the most appreciated features of the Jackery Explorer 500 is its pass-through charging capability, which allows you to charge the power station while it simultaneously powers other devices. This feature enhances its functionality and ensures that you won’t have to choose between charging the station and using it for powering other devices. The build quality is solid, and customers note its low noise level during use, which is an added benefit. While the Explorer 500 may not be the best choice for powering larger appliances for extended periods, it is well-suited for smaller devices and short-term use.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. 518Wh lithium-ion battery for reliable power.
2. 500W continuous AC output with 1000W peak power.
3. 3 USB-A ports, 2 DC ports, and 1 car port for versatile charging options.
4. Pass-through charging capability for simultaneous use and charging.
5. Lightweight (13.3 lbs) and portable with a convenient handle.

Pros:

1. Compact and easy to transport, perfect for outdoor use.
2. Multiple output options to charge a variety of devices.
3. Pass-through charging enhances convenience.
4. Low noise level during operation.
5. Solid build quality ensures durability.

Cons:

1. Limited power for larger appliances or extended use.

Anker 535 vs Jackery 500: A Comprehensive Comparison

When it comes to portable power stations, two popular options that often come up are the Anker 535 Portable Power Station and the Jackery Explorer 500. Both of these devices offer reliable power solutions for outdoor activities, emergency backup, and home use, but they come with different features, specifications, and advantages.

Battery Capacity and Power Output

One of the first things to consider when choosing a power station is its battery capacity and power output, as this directly affects how long you can power your devices.

• Anker 535: This model features a 512Wh LiFePO4 battery, which provides up to 3000 charge cycles, a huge improvement over traditional lithium-ion batteries. This translates into a longer lifespan, making it ideal for long-term usage. The power station can output 500W continuous power with a peak of 1000W, sufficient for most devices like laptops, small refrigerators, and other essential electronics.
• Jackery 500: The Jackery Explorer 500 also uses a 518Wh lithium-ion battery, offering a comparable power capacity to the Anker 535. It provides 500W continuous power with a peak output of 1000W. The slightly higher total battery capacity of 518Wh may offer marginally better runtime, but both models are comparable in terms of practical usage.

Model	Battery Capacity	Continuous Power	Peak Power
Anker 535	512Wh	500W	1000W
Jackery 500	518Wh	500W	1000W

While both power stations have similar output specifications, the Anker 535’s LiFePO4 battery provides an edge in terms of longevity, offering six times more charge cycles than conventional lithium-ion batteries.

Portability and Design

Portability is a crucial factor when it comes to choosing a power station, especially if you’re using it for camping, road trips, or other outdoor activities.

• Anker 535: Weighing in at 16.75 pounds, the Anker 535 is on the heavier side compared to the Jackery 500. However, it is built with a robust and drop-proof unibody structure, making it durable for outdoor use. Its compact design means it can still be transported with relative ease.
• Jackery 500: The Jackery Explorer 500 is lighter, weighing only 13.3 pounds, making it more portable and easier to carry around. Its basketball-sized design and ergonomic handle allow for convenient portability, ideal for camping or taking it on the go.

In terms of portability, the Jackery 500 has a clear advantage due to its lighter weight and easier handling.

Charging Options and Features

When looking for a portable power station, the variety of charging options can make a significant difference, especially for users with multiple devices.

• Anker 535: The Anker 535 offers 9 ports in total, including 4 AC outlets, 3 USB-A ports, 1 USB-C PD output, and 1 car outlet. The inclusion of a USB-C port is a significant advantage for fast charging, especially for modern devices like laptops that support USB-C PD charging. It also allows for recharging to 80% in under 2.5 hours through the USB-C port, a very fast charging option.
• Jackery 500: The Jackery Explorer 500 provides 1 AC outlet (500W continuous), 3 USB-A ports, 2 DC ports, and 1 car port. Although it has fewer outlets, the pass-through charging feature is a notable advantage, as it allows you to charge devices while the unit is simultaneously charging itself. This makes it very convenient in continuous-use scenarios.

Model	AC Outlets	USB-A Ports	USB-C Port	Car Outlet	Pass-Through Charging
Anker 535	4	3	1	1	No
Jackery 500	1	3	No	1	Yes

The Anker 535 wins in terms of versatility and the number of available outlets, especially with the inclusion of the USB-C port. However, Jackery 500 is favored by users who need continuous charging with pass-through capabilities.

Durability and Lifespan

• Anker 535: Thanks to its LiFePO4 battery, the Anker 535 boasts a lifespan of 10 years, backed by a 5-year warranty. This makes it a great long-term investment. The rugged build and drop-proof design ensure it can withstand outdoor environments.
• Jackery 500: The Jackery Explorer 500 also offers a long-lasting lithium-ion battery, but it doesn’t have the same cycle life as the LiFePO4 technology found in the Anker 535. However, it’s still durable and well-suited for everyday use, offering low maintenance and reliable performance.

FAQ

What is the difference in battery technology between the Anker 535 and Jackery 500?

The Anker 535 uses LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery technology, which offers a much longer lifespan compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The Anker 535 can endure up to 3000 charge cycles, meaning it will last around six times longer than a standard lithium-ion battery. In contrast, the Jackery 500 uses a lithium-ion battery, which is still reliable but typically has fewer charge cycles and a slightly shorter lifespan than LiFePO4. This makes the Anker 535 a better choice if you’re looking for long-term durability and more frequent use over the years.

Can both the Anker 535 and Jackery 500 charge devices while being recharged?

Yes, both the Anker 535 and Jackery 500 offer the ability to charge devices while they are recharging themselves. However, the Jackery 500 has the added benefit of pass-through charging, allowing you to charge the unit while simultaneously powering your devices, such as laptops or small appliances. The Anker 535, on the other hand, does not support this feature, so it may not be as convenient if you’re looking to use and charge the unit at the same time.

Which one is better for camping?

When it comes to camping, the decision between the Anker 535 and Jackery 500 largely depends on how portable and powerful you need your power station to be. The Jackery 500 is slightly more compact and lighter at 13.3 pounds, making it easier to carry around during camping trips. It also has a more portable design with an ergonomic handle. On the other hand, the Anker 535 is heavier at 16.75 pounds but offers more power ports, including USB-C, which can be beneficial for charging a variety of devices quickly. If you’re looking for portability, the Jackery may be the better choice, but if you need additional power options for a variety of devices, the Anker could be more suitable.

How long does it take to recharge the Anker 535 and Jackery 500?

The Anker 535 features USB-C charging, allowing you to recharge the power station to 80% in under 2.5 hours, which is very fast compared to many other models. In contrast, the Jackery 500 typically takes longer to recharge. Using a standard wall outlet, it can take about 7-8 hours to fully charge the Jackery 500, which is a slower process compared to the Anker 535’s rapid USB-C recharge. If speed is a priority, the Anker 535 has a clear advantage.

Can the Anker 535 and Jackery 500 power large appliances?

Both power stations are designed to power smaller devices and essential electronics, but they may not be suitable for large appliances or prolonged high-power use. The Anker 535 and Jackery 500 both provide 500W continuous power with a 1000W peak. This makes them suitable for powering items like laptops, small refrigerators, and lights. However, they may struggle with more power-hungry appliances like large heaters, air conditioners, or full-sized refrigerators. If you plan to use them for large appliances, make sure to check the wattage requirements before relying on these power stations for extended periods.

Conclusion

Both the Anker 535 and the Jackery 500 are excellent portable power stations, each with its own strengths. The Anker 535 is perfect for users who prioritize longer battery lifespan, multiple outlets, and fast charging capabilities. On the other hand, the Jackery 500 is a more affordable, portable option that still offers excellent performance, with the added benefit of pass-through charging.

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