Bluetti EB3A vs Anker 521: Which Power Station Wins?
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Bluetti EB3A vs Anker 521: Who Wins in a Side-by-Side Comparison?
winner
The Bluetti EB3A wins in terms of features and performance – with higher output, more charging options, faster AC / solar charging, and Bluetooth. However, the Anker 521 is cheaper and easier to carry. Read the full Bluetti vs Anker Guide.
01.
Durability and Lifespan
- Both the Bluetti EB3A and Anker 521 have LiFePO4 batteries, which are safer and deliver a longer battery cycle life.
- Anker 521 has more charge / discharge cycles, and longer battery life. The Anker 521 offers 3,000 charge cycles, while the Bluetti EB3A has 2,500 charge cycles.
02.
Battery Capacity and Output Power
- Bluetti EB3A has slightly more capacity. Bluetti EB3A has capacity of 268Wh, compared to the Anker 521’s 256Wh.
- Bluetti EB3A has higher power output. The Bluetti EB3A has output of 600-Watts (1,200-Watts surge), while the Anker 521 has output of 300-Watts (600-Watts surge).
03.
Charging Speed & Options
- Anker 521 charges faster when plugged into an AC wall outlet or USB-C port.
- Anker 521 charges in 2.5 hours via AC outlet, while the Bluetti EB3A takes 5 hours to charge.
- Anker 521 charges in 1.5 hours via USB-C, while the Bluetti EB3A charges in about 1.7 hours via AC + Solar panel.
04.
Outlets & Ports
- Bluetti EB3A has more outlets and ports to plug devices into. Bluetti EB3A has 9 outlets and ports, including a 100W USB-C and a 15W wireless pad, while the Anker 521 has 6 outlets and ports, with a lower output USB-C port (60W) and no wireless pad.
05.
Weight & Portability
- Bluetti EB3A is more lightweight. The Bluetti EB3A weighs 6.6 lbs, whereas the Anker 521 is heavier at 8.2 lbs.
- Anker 521 is more compact. The Anker 521 measures 8.5 x 8.3 x 5.7 inches, while the Bluetti EB3A is larger with dimensions of 10.0 x 7.0 x 7.2 inches.
06.
Connectivity
- Bluetti EB3A is Bluetooth-enabled. The Bluetti EB3A supports Bluetooth, while the Anker 521 does not.
- Neither can connect to WiFi. This means that they can’t automatically download firmware updates and security patches.
How does the Bluetooth functionality of the Bluetti EB3A enhance its features?
- Remote Monitoring and Control: The EB3A Bluetooth features allows you to monitor the power station from afar using an app. You can check battery status, power input/output, and even adjust settings remotely. This is a handy feature if you need to check the power station without being physically near it.
- Firmware Updates: The Bluetti app enables over-the-air updates, ensuring that the device stays up-to-date with the latest features and optimizations.
- Enhanced User Experience: The app makes it easy to switch between different modes (e.g., Eco Mode) and control the unit’s behavior, enhancing usability.
07.
Additional Features
- Anker 521 has a longer 5-year warranty. The Bluetti EB3A comes with a 2-year warranty.
- Bluetti EB3A has a UPS mode. UPS (uninterruptible power supply) allows you to connect sensitive devices to the Bluetti, which is then plugged into an AC wall outlet. Your device will receive power from the grid unless there’s an outage. At that point, the EB3A will temporarily provide power to your device.
How long can Bluetti EB3A and Anker 521 power devices?
| Device | Bluetti EB3A | Anker 521 |
|---|---|---|
| Smartphone (10-15W) | 17-26 charges | 16-25 charges |
| Tablet (15-20W) | 13-17 charges | 12-16 charges |
| Laptop (45-100W) | 2.5-5.5 hours | 2.5-5 hours |
| LED camping light (5-10W) | 26-53 hours | 25-51 hours |
| Portable fan (20-40W) | 6.5-13 hours | 6-12.5 hours |
| CPAP machine (30-60W) | 4-8 nights | 4-7.5 nights |
| Mini fridge (40-60W) | 4-6.5 hours | 4-6 hours |
| Portable projector (50-100W) | 2.5-5 hours | 2.5-4.5 hours |
| Drone battery charging (50-100W) | 2-5 charges | 2-4 charges |
| Small TV/monitor (30-100W) | 2.5-8 hours | 2.5-7.5 hours |
Bluetti EB3A vs Anker 521 Features Comparison
| Feature | Bluetti EB3A | Anker 521 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 268Wh | 256Wh |
| Battery Type | LiFePO4 | LiFePO4 |
| Charge Cycles | 2,500 | 3,000 |
| Power Output | 600W (1,200W surge) | 300W (600W surge) |
| AC Charging Time | 1.2 to 1.5 hours in turbo mode | Approx. 4 hours |
| AC Input | 350W max (turbo mode) | 65W max |
| DC Charging Time | 2 to 3 hours | approx. 4 to 5 hours |
| Solar Charging Time | 1.5 to 2 hours in peak sun | 3.9 to 4 hours in peak sun |
| Solar Input | 200W max | 65W max |
| Alternate Charging | 1.2 to 1.7 hours (AC + Solar) | 1.5 hours (USB-C) |
| Total Outlets/Ports | 8 | 6 |
| AC Outlets | 2 x 120V/5A | 2 x 120V/5A |
| USB-A Ports | 2 x 5V/3A | 2 x 2.4A |
| USB-C Port | 1 x 100W | 1 x 60W |
| DC Ports | 1 x 12V/10A (120W max) | 1 x 12V/5A (60W max) |
| Wireless Charging | 1 x 15W pad | None |
| Dimensions (inches) | 10.0 x 7.0 x 7.2 | 8.5 x 8.3 x 5.7 |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs | 8.2 lbs |
| Bluetooth | Yes | No |
| WiFi | No | No |
| Warranty | 2 years | 5 years |
FAQs
Which power station is better for frequent travel?
The Anker 521 is better for frequent travel because its lighter weight, more compact, and easier to pack and carry.
What are the differences in the surge power capabilities of the two models?
The Bluetti EB3A has a much higher surge power of 1200W compared to Anker 521’s 400W. This makes the EB3A better for devices with high startup power needs.
How does the solar charging capability of the Anker 521 compare to other models in the same price range?
Anker 521’s 65W max solar input is low compared to competitors in its price range, making it less efficient for solar charging.
What are the main advantages of the Anker 521 over other models in its price range?
The Anker 521’s main advantage are its compact size and lightweight design, while still providing 6 outlets & ports – this makes it great for travel.
What are the main advantages of the Bluetti EB3A over other models in its price range?
Bluetti EB3A offers higher power output, faster charging, Bluetooth control, and a wireless charging pad, giving more value and versatility for its price.
Which power station has better overall performance for outdoor activities?
The Bluetti EB3A has a higher AC output and solar input. This makes it better for powering a wider range of devices, and enables it to charge faster using solar panels. The Anker 521, while more portable, has limited power output and solar input.
How do the number of outlets and ports affect their usability?
The Bluetti EB3A offers more variety and higher power outputs, including a 100W USB-C port and a wireless charging pad. This allows it to charge more devices at the same time.
Read more comparisons:
- Bluetti EB55 vs Anker 535 Comparison Guide
- Bluetti EB3A vs Anker 521 Comparison Guide
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- Bluetti AC180 vs Anker SOLIX C1000: Which offers better value for the money?
- Bluetti EB705 vs Anker SOLIX C800: Which is Better for Emergencies?
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