In recent years, the demand for portable power stations has skyrocketed as people strive for more sustainable and convenient energy sources. A well-known brand that has emerged as a leader in the space is EcoFlow, with their two flagship portable power stations; the RIVER and DELTA series.
Both types offer powerful and reliable off-grid power, but how do they compare and which one is better? This article aims to compare EcoFlow RIVER and DELTA series to analyze how they compare in terms of capacity, output, outlets, weight and portability, and price.
EcoFlow RIVER vs DELTA: How Do They Compare?
EcoFlow RIVER
The EcoFlow RIVER series are affordable, easy-to-transport power stations that pack a punch. With prices ranging between $239 – $599, weight between 7 to 20 pounds, and battery capacity ranging from 256Wh to 882Wh, the RIVER portable power stations are budget-friendly, lightweight and can easily power devices from smartphones to small appliances.
| EcoFlow RIVER 2 | EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max | EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro | EcoFlow RIVER Pro | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 256Wh | 512Wh | 768Wh | 720Wh (expands to 1440Wh) |
| Battery Type | LiFePO4 | LiFePO4 | LiFePO4 | NCM |
| Expandable | No | No | No | Yes |
| Life Span | 3,000+ cycles to 80%+ capacity | 3,000+ cycles to 80%+ capacity | 3,000+ cycles to 80%+ capacity | 800+ cycles to 80%+ capacity |
| Recharge Time | + 1 hour via AC + 4 to 5 hours via 220W solar panel + 3 hours via 12V car port + 4 to 5 hours via USB-C | + 1 hour via AC + 3 hours via 220W solar panels + 3 hours via 12V car port + 4 to 5 hours via USB-C | + 70 min via AC + 3 to 6 hours via 1x 400W Solar Panel + 5 to 9 hours via 100W Solar Panel + 3 hours via 12V car port | + 100 min via AC + 3 to 6 hours via 1x 400W Solar Panel + 6 to 12 hours via one 160W Solar Panel + 8 hours via 12V car port |
| AC Output | 300W (600W surge) | 500W (1,000W surge) | 800W (1,600W surge) | 600W (1,200W surge) |
| Solar Input | Max 110-watts 11-30V, 8A | Max 220-watts 11-50V, 13A | Max 220-watts 11-50V, 13A | Max 200-watts 10-25V, 12A |
| Weight | 7.7 lbs (3.49 kg) | 13.3 lbs (6.03 kg) | 17.2 lbs | 16.8 lbs (7.6kg) |
| Ports | 6 total ports: + 2x AC (360W total) + 2x USB-A (12W max) + 1x USB-C (60W max) + 1x 12V DC car port (120W max) | 11 total ports: + 4x AC (500W total) + 3x USB-A (12W Max) + 2x DC5521 (126W Max) + 1x USB-C (100W Max) + 1x 12V car port (100W max) | 11 total ports: + 4x AC outlets (800W total) + 3x USB-A (12W Max) + 1x USB-C (100W Max) + 1x 12.6V car port + 2x DC5521 (38W Max) | 10 total ports: + 3x AC (600W total) + 2x USB-A (12W Max) + 1x USB-A fast-charge (18W Max) + 1x USB-C (100W Max) + 1x 12.6V car port (136W) + 2x DC5521 (38W Max) |
| Connection | n/a | WiFi, Bluetooth | WiFi, Bluetooth | WiFi, Bluetooth |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years | 2 years |
| Light (10W) | 25.6 hours runtime (AC) | 51.2 hours runtime (AC) | 76.8 hours runtime (AC) | 72 hours runtime (AC) |
| CPAP (40W) | 6.4 hours runtime (AC) | 12.8 hours runtime (AC) | 19.2 hours runtime (AC) | 18 hours runtime (AC) |
| Laptop (60Wh) | 3-4 charges (USB-C) | 7-8 charges (USB-C) | 10-12 charges (USB-C) | 10-12 charges (USB-C) |
| Refrigerator (120W) | 2.1 hours runtime (AC) | 4.3 hours runtime (AC) | 6.4 hours runtime (AC) | 6 hours runtime (AC) |
| Rice Cooker (1000W) | n/a | n/a | n/a | 40 minutes (AC) |
EcoFlow DELTA Series
In comparison, the EcoFlow DELTA series offer much higher battery capacities ranging from 1024Wh to 25000Wh, prices ranging from $980 to $3,499 and weight between 27 to more than 60 pounds, making these great solutions for running larger devices and even supporting an entire household of appliances. With multiple AC outlets and USB ports, the Delta provides a lot of options for charging various devices simultaneously.
| EcoFlow DELTA Mini | EcoFlow DELTA 2 | EcoFlow DELTA Max (2000) | EcoFlow DELTA Pro | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 882Wh | 1,000Wh (expands to 3,000Wh) | 2,016Wh (expands to 6,048Wh) | 3,600Wh (expands to 25,000Wh) |
| Battery Type | NCM | LiFePO4 | NCM | LiFePO4 |
| Expandable Battery | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Life Span | 800+ cycles to 80%+ capacity | 3,000+ cycles to 80%+ capacity | 800+ cycles to 80%+ capacity | 3,000+ cycles to 80%+ capacity |
| Recharge Time | + 1.6 hours via AC + 3 to 6 hours via 1x 400W Solar Panel + 4 to 8 hours via 2x 160W Solar Panels + 9.5 hours via 12/24V Car Port | + 90 min via AC + 3 hours via solar with 2x 110W Solar Panels + 4 to 8 hours via 2x 160W Solar Panels + 6.5 hours via 12V Car Port | + 3 hours via AC + 3 to 6 hours via 1x 400W Solar Panel + 4 to 8 hours via 2x 160W Solar Panels + 21 hours via 12V Car Port | + 3 hours via AC + 3 to 6 hours via 1x 400W Solar Panel + 4 to 8 hours via 2x 160W Solar Panels + 21 hours via 12V car port |
| AC Output | 1,400W (2,100W surge) | 1,800W (2,700W surge) | 2,400W (4,600W surge) | 3,600W (4,500W surge) |
| Solar Input | Max 300-watts 11-75V, 10A | Max 500-watts 11-60V, 15A | Max 800-watts 11-100V, 13A | Max 1600-watts 11-150V, 15A |
| Weight | 23.6 lbs (10.7 kg) | 27 lbs (12.25 kg) | 48 lbs (21.8 kg) | 99 lbs (45 kg) |
| Ports | 10 total ports: + 5x AC ports (1400W total) + 1x USB-A fast-charge (18W Max) + 2x USB-A + 1x USB-C (100W Max) + 1x 12.6V car port (126W Max) | 15 total ports: + 6x AC ports (1800W total) + 2x USB-A fast-charge (18W Max) (18W Max) + 2x USB-A + 2x USB-C (100W Max) + 2x DC5521 (38W Max) + 1x 12.6V car port (126W Max) | 15 total ports: + 6x AC outlets (2400W total) + 2x USB-A fast-charge (18W Max) + 2x USB-A (12W Max) + 2x USB-C (100W Max) + 2x DC5521 (38W Max) + 1x 12.6V car port (126W Max) | 15 total ports: + 5x AC outlets (3600W total) + 2x USB-A fast-charge (18W Max) + 2x USB-A (12W Max) + 2x USB-C (100W Max) + 1x 12.6V car port + 2x DC5521 (38W Max) + 1x Andersen (12.6V, 30A) |
| Connection | n/a | Wi-Fi & Bluetooth | WiFi | WiFi, Bluetooth |
| Warranty | 5 years | 2 years | 2 years | |
| Light (10W) | 88.2 hours runtime (AC) | 100 hours | 201.6 hours | 360 hours |
| CPAP (40W) | 22.05 hours runtime (AC) | 25 hours | 50.4 hours | 90 hours |
| Refrigerator (120W) | 8.3 hours | 16.8 hours | 30 hours | |
| Washing Machine (500W) | 1.76 hours runtime (AC) | 2 hours | 4 hours | 7.2 hours |
| Electric Drill (1,080W) | 48.6 minutes runtime (AC) | 56 minutes | 1.85 hours | 3.33 hours |
EcoFlow RIVER vs DELTA: How Are They Similar?
- Battery Expansion: Some models have battery expansion options to increase capacity and output.
- Recharge Time: Some models have Fast X-Boost charging in 90 minutes via AC wall outlet.
- Port Selection: AC, DC, USB-A, 18W USB-A fast-charge, and 100W USB-C outlets and ports.
- Connectivity: Some models have Wi-Fi & Bluetooth capability.
- Remote Control: Some models can be remotely controlled via the EcoFlow app.
- Warranty: Minimum 2-year service warranty.
EcoFlow RIVER vs DELTA: How Are They Different?
- Battery Capacity: RIVER capacity ranges from 256Wh to 1440Wh, while DELTA capacity ranges from 882Wh up to 25kWh.
- Lithium Cell Technology: 3 out of 4 RIVER power stations use LiFePO4 battery technology, and 2 out of 4 DELTA power stations use LiFePO4.
- AC Output: RIVER portable power stations AC output ranges from 300W (600W peak surge) to 600W (1,200W peak surge), while DELTA portable power stations AC output ranges from 1,400W (2,100W peak surge) to 3,600W (4,500W peak surge), depending on the model.
- Weight and Portability: RIVER power stations weigh between 7.7 lbs (3.49 kg) and 16.8 lbs (7.6kg), and DELTA power stations weigh between 23.6 lbs (10.7 kg) and 99 lbs (45 kg).
- Outlets and Ports: RIVER power stations have between 6 and 11 ports, and DELTA have anywhere from 10 to 15 ports, depending on the model.
- Solar Input: RIVER models supports solar input from 110-watts to 220-watts, which DELTA supports solar input from 300-watts to 1600-watts.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between EcoFlow RIVER and DELTA series?
In summary, the DELTA series have higher battery capacity that ranges between _____Wh to 25kWh, more power output, expandable lithium batteries, are less portable and are better suited for larger power needs, while the RIVER series have less capacity and output, are more portable and better suited for smaller power needs.
2. What is the EcoFlow DELTA Mini?
The EcoFlow DELTA Mini is a compact portable power station for on-the-go power, and delivers 882Wh capacity, 1400W AC output, 300W solar input, weighs about 23 pounds and is ideal for charging small devices like smartphones, mini bluetooth speakers, and wearable tech like an Apple Watch. The DELTA Mini has less capacity and output compared to its larger counterparts in the DELTA series.
3. What are the advantages of using solar panels with EcoFlow power stations?
Using solar panels with EcoFlow power stations allows you to use solar power to charge your portable power station with a renewable and eco-friendly power source, reducing your dependance on traditional electricity. It’s a great option for people that spend a lot of time outdoors, or just anybody looking for sustainable energy solutions.
4. How does the EcoFlow app enhance the user experience?
The EcoFlow app lets you to monitor and control your the power station remotely, including checking the battery level, adjusting the power output, and receiving real-time notifications.
5. Can I add an extra battery to my EcoFlow power station?
Yes, you can add an extra battery to some EcoFlow power stations in the Delta and River series. EcoFlow expandable batteries include the RIVER Pro Extra Battery from 720Wh to 1440Wh, the DELTA 2 Smart Extra Battery from 1,000Wh to 3,000Wh, the DELTA Max Smart Extra Battery from 2,016Wh to 6,048Wh and the DELTA Pro Smart Extra Battery from 3,600Wh to 25,000Wh.
6. How does the EcoFlow Delta series compare to the River series?
The Delta series delivers higher capacity, AC output, solar input and ports to supply power for almost any situation, from camping to home backup to off-grid #vanlife living, in addition to being heavier, less portable and more expensive. The RIVER series portable power stations have less capacity, AC output, solar input and fewer ports, but are lightweight, easy to transport and budget-friendly to provide power on the go.
7. Can EcoFlow Delta power a refrigerator?
Yes, EcoFlow DELTA portable power stations can power a household refrigerator for varying amounts of time, depending on battery capacity and AC output. The DELTA 2 can run 120-watt refrigerator for about 8 hours, the DELTA Max (2000) for about 16 hours and the DELTA Pro for about 30 hours.
8. What can I power with EcoFlow Delta?
The EcoFlow Delta portable power stations gives you power for almost type of appliance or device, from small gadgets like smartphones, laptops and speakers, to medium-sized household appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, electric stoves, to energy-hungry gear like power drills, saws, sanders.
9. Is EcoFlow made in the USA?
EcoFlow is headquartered in San Francisco, California USA, with manufacturing facilities in Shenzhen, China, where over 80% of all the world’s lithium batteries are created.
10. Can the Ecoflow River Pro and Ecoflow Delta Mini be charged with a solar panel?
Yes, both the EcoFlow RIVER Pro and the EcoFlow DELTA Mini can be charged with solar power. The RIVER Pro can be charged in 3 to 6 hours with a single 400-watt solar panel or 6 to 12 hours using one 160-watt panel; while the DELTA Mini can be charged in 3 to 6 hours with one 400-watt solar panel, or in 4 to 8 hours with two 160-watt solar panels,
11. Is the DELTA Pro or RIVER Pro better for backup power during a power outage?
The DELTA Pro is better during a power outage because it can provide anywhere from 3,600Wh to 25,000Wh of battery capacity, with 3,600-watts AC output (4,500-watts surge), meaning that it can run more devices and appliances for longer. In comparison, the RIVER Pro delivers 720Wh to 1440Wh of capacity, and 600-watts AC output (1,200-watts surge).
12. Can I add an extra battery to both the Ecoflow Delta and Ecoflow River?
Yes, depending on the model, you can add expansion batteries to both the EcoFlow DELTA and EcoFlow RIVER. For example, both the EcoFlow DELTA Pro and EcoFlow RIVER Pro allow for additional battery expansion.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, when comparing the EcoFlow RIVER VS DELTA, RIVER portable power stations are budget-friendly, lightweight, and great for when you’re on-the-go. However, it has a lower capacity, but can supply enough power for small devices like lights, smartphones, laptops and even refrigerators.
On the other hand, DELTA portable power stations are larger and more powerful, capable of providing enough energy to power an entire household of appliances. Conversely, DELTA power stations are heavy, costlier, more difficult to transport and not as portable for mobile use.
