Power stations are lifesavers, literally and figuratively. They will keep your devices running, even those that are life supporters. What’s more, they are environmentally friendly. That’s a great plus to the diversity of life on our planet.

At GforGadget, we help you choose between the best power stations in different categories. That we do by testing the batteries so that we have a first-hand understanding to help you make the best decision.

In this piece, we compare different categories of Jackery and Anker power stations. As you can expect, these two brands have equally good battery generators.

Brand Reputation

Jackery has been a titan in the power station industry while Anker is slowly rising up with their inexpensive yet feature-packed products. Also, Jackery has sold so many products and has tens of thousands of reviews. Again, this is because they have been in the industry for years now. Jackery has an amazing media presence and their quality, both products and support, is great.

On the other hand, Anker, although has been in the tech industry for a long time, they are fairly new to the power station market. Their power stations have thousands of reviews online but not as many as Jackery’s. Their power banks, chargers, and phone accessories are very popular. They have a brand reputation to maintain and thus, you can expect high-quality batteries as well as after-sales support. FYI, I am using their new 767 PowerHouse station and so far, loving it.

As of the publishing date, Anker has 7 battery generators, a new one launching soon (see the whole catalog here) whereas Jackery has 11 generators (see the whole collection here). Their products are available on their official sites as well as major eCommerce sites like Amazon.

For the comparison, we’ll be focusing on the following aspects:

  • First impressions
  • Portability
  • Battery capacity and power
  • Recharge times
  • Price

Both Jackery and Anker have products in different price ranges and capacities. In this article, we are comparing 4 of their best and most popular ones. Click on the links below to skip to that section directly.

1. Jackery Explorer 240 Vs. Anker 521 – Entry level (priced around $200)

If you just need something to keep your devices running for a few hours during a power outage, then this category is for you. Here, we’ll be looking at the Jackery Explorer 240 and the Anker 521.

PREVIEW PRODUCT
Explorer 240 See on Jackery

See on Amazon

Anker 521 See on Anker

See on Amazon

What’s in the box?

Jackery Explorer 240

  • One Explorer 240 battery station
  • One Car charger
  • One AC & AC cable
  • One user manual

Anker 521

  • One Anker 521 power station
  • One car charging cable
  • One DC adapter
  • One user guide

Jackery 240 vs Anker 521

First impressions

Straight out of the box, looking at the two power stations reveals a major contrast in design. The Anker 521 has a sleeker, more contemporary look. But it’s not always in the looks, right? When it comes to size, the Anker is a tad wider and taller.

There are a few differences as far as the features are concerned, as outlined in the following table:

  Jackery Explorer 240 Anker 521
Weight 6.6 lbs (3.1 Kgs) 9.57 lbs (4.34 Kgs)
Size (LxWxH) 5.2 x 9.1 x 7.7 in  8.5 x 8.32 x 5.67 in
USB-A Output 2 Ports (5V, 2.4A / 24W Max) 2 Ports (5V, 3.6A / 2.4A Max for each port)
USB-C Output No port 1 Port (60W Max)
Car Charger Output 1 Port: 12V, 10A 1 Port: 12V, 10A
AC Output 1 Port: 110V, 1.82A (60Hz, 200W max continuous, 400W surge peak) 2 Ports: 110V, 1.82A (50Hz/60Hz, 200W max continuous)
DC Input 12-30V, 3.5A (65W Max) 11-28V, 5.5A (65W Max)
Lifecycle 500 cycles to 80%+ capacity 3000 cycles to 80%+ capacity
Information Display Digital display Digital display (more informative)
Operating Temperature 14°F-104°F /-10°C-40°C 32°F-104°F / 0°C-40°C
Cell Type Lithium-ion Lithium-ion (LiFePO4)
Warranty 2 yrs, (free 1 year warranty extension for online registration) 5 yrs full device warranty
Solar Generator Bundle Yes (1 option, view here) Yes (1 option, see here)

 

Portability

While the Anker power station is slightly heavier at 9.57 pounds compared to the 6.6 pounds of the Jackery battery station, both are portable enough.

At this battery capacity, I would prioritize the size and weight over features. I should be able to carry it with me just like a power bank. The lighter, the better.

Jackery 240 vs Anker 521 Comparison

Battery capacity and power

These two are, undoubtedly, among the most important features of any battery pack. As you can see in the following table, the Anker 521 has a slightly higher capacity and surge power rating than the Jackery 240. Even though the disparity is not so huge, it can mean a lot to users who need to store as much energy as they can.

  Jackery Explorer 240 Anker 521
Battery Capacity 240Wh 256Wh
Battery Power 200W 200W
Surge Power 400W 450W

 

Recharge times

The amount of time it takes to juice up your battery is just as important as the capacity. After all, what’s the point of having a high capacity if it takes too long to recharge?

Here’s a quick summary of the time it takes to recharge these two power stations:

  Jackery Explorer 240 Anker 521
AC Adapter 5.5 hrs (0% – 100%) 2.5 hrs or less (0% – 80%)
Solar Recharge 7 hrs (0% – 100%) 4.1 hrs (0% – 100%)

 

Verdict: Which one is a better pick?

Since Anker 521 has more capacity with lesser recharge times, not to mention the more informative display and a USB-C output port. But, Jackery 240 is a lot lighter.

The differentiating factor here is the battery life cycle. Jackery’s 500 cycle comes nowhere near the 3000 cycles of Anker. I think the battery cycle has a higher impact on a battery generator than anything else. I would go with Anker 521.


 

2. Jackery Explorer 500 Vs. Anker 535 – Low range (priced around $500)

For those who need more than just a few hours of backup power, the low range is ideal. In this category, we compare the Jackery Explorer 500 with the Anker 535.

PREVIEW PRODUCT
Explorer 500 See on Jackery

See on Amazon

Anker 535 See on Anker

See on Amazon

What’s in the box?

For the Jackery Explorer 500:

  • One Jackery Explorer 500 unit
  • One AC adapter and cable
  • One car charging cable
  • One user manual

For the Anker 535:

  • One Anker 535 portable power unit
  • One AC adapter
  • One car charger
  • One user guide

Jackery 500 vs Anker 535

First impressions

Just like the Anker in the previous category, the one in this category is also less conspicuous and more contemporary in design. A simplistic design that has the ports neatly arranged in one location. This gives it a neater look than the Jackery Explorer 500, which has shouty orange graphics and ports on almost the entire front part of the unit.

But again, looks won’t matter if the features don’t back it up. So, let’s take a look at the specs of these two power stations.

  Jackery Explorer 500 Anker 535
Weight 13.32 lbs. (6.04 Kgs) 16.75 lbs. (7.60 Kgs)
Size (LxWx H) 11.84 x 7.59 x 9.2 in  11.5 x 9.9 x 7.4 in
USB-A Output 3 Ports: (5V, 2.4A / 30W Max) 3 Ports: (5V, 7.2A / 2.4A Max for each port)
USB-C Output No 1 Port (60W Max)
Car Charger Output 1 Port: 12V, 10A 1 Port: 12V, 10A
AC Output 1 Port: 110V, 4.54A (60Hz, 500W max continuous, 1000W surge peak) 4 Ports: 110V, 4.54A (50Hz/60Hz, 500W max continuous)
DC Output 2 Ports: 12V, 7A No DC Output
DC Input 12-30V, 3.5A (100W Max) 11-28V, 10A (120W Max)
USB-C Input No (5V, 3A / 9V, 3A / 15V, 3A / 20V, 3A) (60W Max)
Lifecycles More than 500 cycles to 80%+ capacity 3000 cycles to 80%+ capacity
Information Display Digital display Digital display (Has more information)
Operating Temperature 14°F-104°F /-10°C-40°C 32°F-104°F / 0°C-40°C
Cell Type Lithium-ion Lithium-ion (LiFEPO4)
Warranty 2 yrs, plus a free 1-year warranty extension for online reg) 5 yrs full device warranty
Solar Bundles Yes, one option (view here) Yes, (1 option)

 

Portability

With the Jackery weighing in at 13.32lbs and the Anker being slightly higher at 16.75 pounds, there’s not much difference in portability.

Jackery Explorer 500 vs Anker 535 Comparison

Battery capacity and power

Here, the difference is a little bit disappointing. You’d expect the Anker, with more ports and a better design, to take the lead, but as you can see in the table below, that’s not the case.

  Jackery Explorer 500 Anker 535
Battery Capacity 518Wh 512Wh
Battery Power 500W 500W
Surge Power 1000W 750W

 

Recharge times

When it comes to recharging time, the Anker makes up for its shortcomings in the previous category. As you can see, it only takes 2.5 hrs to get to 80%. And even if the batteries were to reach 100%, the Anker still has a notable edge over the Jackery.

  Jackery Explorer 500 Anker 535
AC Adapter 7.5 hrs (0% – 100%) 2.5 hrs or less (0% – 80%)
Solar Recharge 9.5 hrs (0% – 100%) 4 hrs (0% – 100%)

 

Verdict: So which one is better?

Both have almost the same battery and power capacities but Anker 535 has more ports, a higher charge cycle value, lesser recharge times, and a longer warranty. The differentiating factor here is the battery life cycle. Jackery’s 500 cycle (approx) comes nowhere near the 3000 cycles of Anker.


 

3. Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro vs Anker SOLIX F1200 – Mid range (priced around $1200)

Jackery Explorer 1000 is the older one. But the 1000 Pro is the newer, upgraded version. I would pick the newer model.

If you’re looking for something with more juice, then you might want to consider the mid-range category. In this class, we compare the Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro with the Anker SOLIX F1200 (PowerHouse 757).

The Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro is an improved version of the Jackery Explorer 1000, with a better display, more charge cycles, and quick charging.

PREVIEW PRODUCT
Explorer 1000 PRO See on Jackery

See on Amazon

SOLIX F1200 (757 Powerhouse) See on Anker

See on Amazon

What’s in the box?

Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro:

  • One Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro unit
  • One car charge cable
  • One AC power cable
  • One DC7909 to DC8020 connector
  • Quick start guide

Anker SOLIX F1200 (Powerhouse 757):

  • One Anker 757 unit
  • One AC power cable
  • One solar power cable
  • One car charging cable
  • A welcome guide

Jackery 1000 Pro vs Anker 757

First impressions

Just like in the previous categories, we felt that the Anker was better-looking overall. With an eye-catching, ultramodern look, it definitely looks like it means business. The Jackery, on the other hand, looks a little boxier and bulkier.

But just like in the previous classes, we were more eager to find out what was under the hood. So without further ado, let’s get to it.

  Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro Anker SOLIX F1200 (757 PowerHouse)
Weight 25.4 lbs. (11.5 Kgs) 43.9 lbs. (19.9 Kgs)
Size (LxWx H) 13.39 x 10.32 x 10.06 in 11.5 x 9.9 x 7.4 in
USB-A Output 2 Ports: (5-6V, 3A / 6-9V, 2A, 9-12V, 1.5A) (18W Max) with quick charge 3.0. 4 Ports: (5V, 7.2A / 2.4A Max for each port)
USB-C Output 2 Ports (100W Max) 2 Port (60W Max)
Car Charger Output 1 Port: 12V, 10A 1 Port: 12V, 10A
AC Output 3 Ports: 120V, 8.33A Max (60Hz, 1000W max continuous, 2000W surge peak) 6 Ports: 110V, 13.64A (50Hz/60Hz, 1500W max while in Inverter Mode) / 100V-120V, 12A Max (50Hz/60Hz, 1440W Max while in Bypass Mode)

2500W surge peak

DC Input/Solar Panel Input 12-17.5V, 8A Max, Double to 16A Max

17.5V-60V, 11A, Double to 22A/800W Max

11V-28V, 10A (300W Max)
AC Input 120V, 15A Max (60Hz) 100V-120V, 12A Max (50Hz/60Hz)
Lifecycles 1000 cycles to 80%+ capacity 3000 cycles to 80%+ capacity
Information Display Advanced Digital display Advanced Digital display
Operating Temperature 14°F-104°F /-10°C-40°C 32°F-104°F / 0°C-40°C
Cell Type Lithium-ion (LiFePO4) Lithium-ion (LiFePO4)
Warranty 3yrs standard warranty plus 2yrs free extended warranty for online reg 5yrs full device warranty
Solar Bundles Yes, available (2 options, see here) Yes, 3 options (see option 1, option 2, option 3)

 

Portability

The Anker SOLIX F1200 weighs about 43.9 pounds, while the Jackery 1000 Pro comes in at about 25.4 pounds. Though both are still quite portable, the Jackery is definitely more so.

Jackery 1000 Pro VS Anker 757 Comparison

Battery capacity and power

When it comes to battery capacity, the Anker, with a capacity of 1229Wh compared to the 1002Wh that the Jackery offers, is definitely the clear winner here.

  Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro Anker SOLIX F1200 (PowerHouse 757)
Battery Capacity 1002Wh 1229Wh
Battery Power 1000W 1500W
Surge Power 2000W 2400W

 

Recharge times

The Anker also comes out on top when it comes to recharging times when using the AC adapter. Keep in mind, however, that the Anker is capped at a 300W solar input compared to the 800W solar input offered by Jackery. As such, the Jackery will charge a tad faster if you’re using solar power.

  Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro Anker SOLIX F1200 (PowerHouse 757)
AC Adapter Input 1.8 hrs (0% – 100%) 1 hr (0% – 80%), 1.5 hrs (0% – 100%)
Solar Recharge 4 x 200W Solar Saga – 1.8 hrs (0% – 100%) / 2 x 80W SolarSaga Panel – 9 hrs (0% – 100%) Approx 3.6 Hrs to 80% (300W input)

 

Verdict: So which one is better?

If portability is a thing and you are on a tight budget, then the Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro is a good pick. But if you’re looking for more battery juice, faster recharge times, and more lifecycles then the SOLIX F1200 is a better option. F1200 is a couple of hundred bucks more than Explorer 1000 Pro.


 

4. Top of the Line – Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro vs. Anker 767 PowerHouse (aka Solix F2000)

Jackery 2000 Pro vs Anker 767

If you want a battery generator for power tools, emergency home backup and remote workshops, this section is for you.

Anker 767 is not available in the market yet but it is expected to come out in the next few weeks. I am adding a quick, first-look comparison chart for these two and will add more data once it is out.

PREVIEW PRODUCT
Explorer 2000 Pro See on Jackery

See on Amazon

Anker SOLIX F2000 See on Anker

See on Amazon

What’s in the box?

Jackery Explorer 2000 pro:

  • One Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro
  • One Car Charge Cable
  • One AC Charge Cable
  • One DC7909 to DC8020 Adapter
  • A User Manual

Anker SOLIX F2000 (Powerhouse 767):

  • One F2000 power station
  • One Car charging cable
  • One AC charging cable
  • One solar charging cable
  • Accessories bag
  • A user manual
Jackery 2000 pro Anker SOLIX F2000 (Powerhouse 767)
Weight 43 lb. (19.5 kg) 67.2 lb. (30.5 kg)
Battery Type Lithium-ion (LiFePO4) Lithium-ion (LiFePO4)
Warranty 3 years + 2 years extension offer 5 years
Output ports  8 ports 12 ports
AC Power Outlets 3 outlets, 2200W total 4 outlets (2500W total)
USB-A Ports 2 ports, Quick Charge 3.0, 18W Max 2 ports
USB-C Ports 2 ports, 100W Max per port 3 ports
Car Power output 12V, 10A 12V, 10A
DC Output No No
Input Ports 2 Ports 2 Ports
Solar charging input 11V-17.5V (8A Max) 1200W 1000W
AC Charging 120V, 60Hz, 15A Max 120V, 60Hz (1440W max)
Car Charging 11V-17.5V  12V
Expandable Battery No YES
Solar Bundles Available? Yes (view here) Yes
Jackery 2000 Pro vs Anker 767 Comparison