Jackery vs Goal Zero are two “legacy” brands in the relatively young portable power station space, both launched between 2008 and 2012.
Over the past 10+ years, they’ve both developed solid reputations as respected leaders when it comes to creating reliable solutions for mobile, lithium-powered backup batteries.
But over a decade later, how do they compare to each other? Especially when it comes to features like capacity, output, port selection, lithium-ion technology, portability, warranty and pricing?
In this article we’ll analyze how these two brands stack up against each other and other players in the space. We’ll cover the important points you need to know before investing in either option to find the best portable power station for your needs.
Jackery Overview
In comparison to Goal Zero, Jackery delivers better lithium-ion technology, more capacity, faster recharge times and higher output, in addition to generally being more affordable.
Jackery made a name for themselves by specializing in portable power solutions optimized for camping, outdoor activities and off-grid living.
- They developed the world’s first outdoor portable power station for outdoor use in 2016, and followed this up by creating the first portable solar panels.
- Their products are known for their ease of use, tough design and portability.
- Jackery have begun to significantly upgrade their core technology with the release of their “Explorer Plus” line.
Goal Zero Overview
In comparison to Jackery, Goal Zero offers inferior lithium cell technology, less capacity and power, longer recharge times, shorter life cycle and are more expensive.
Goal Zero was originally founded with an ethos grounded in humanitarian roots and a desire to provide sustainable mobile power to all that need it.
- Their first batteries, solar panels, and LED lights were donated to people in the Democratic Republic of Congo who couldn’t access the power grid because of ongoing conflict in the area.
- Since their 2008 launch, they enjoyed success as an early pioneer in solar generators and became somewhat of a household name in the space.
- However, it seems that Goal Zero have not significantly updated their battery technology in years and lag behind Jackery in terms of innovation.
Jackery vs Goal Zero: How Do they Compare?
Let’s get into the nitty gritty and see how these power stations compare on a case-by-case basis.
Jackery Explorer 240 vs Goal Zero Yeti 200X
Winner: Jackery Explorer 240
We choose the Jackery Explorer 240 over the Goal Zero Yeti 200X because of its:
- Larger battery capacity
- Higher surge output power
- Faster AC, DC and solar recharge times
TIP: Look at the EcoFlow RIVER 2 for superior battery technology and longer life cycle.
Feature Jackery Explorer 240 Goal Zero YETI 200X Battery Capacity 240Wh 187Wh Battery Type NMC NMC Life Span 500 charge cycles to 80%+ 500 charge cycles to 80%+ Charging Speed – 2 hours via AC
– 9.5 hours via solar 40W panel
– 7 hours via 12V car charger– 4.5 hours via AC
– 4 hours via solar 50W panel
– 2 hours via 12V car chargerAC Output 200W (400W surge) 200W (200W surge) Weight 8.27 lbs (3.75kg) 4.99 lbs (2.26 kg) Output Ports 5 total:
– 1x AC outlet
– 1x USB-A
– 2x USB-C
– 1x DC carport7 total:
– 1x AC outlet
– 2x USB-A
– 1x USB-C PD
– 1x 12V DC carport (regulated)
– 1x 6mm portConnectivity No No Remote Control No No Warranty 2-years 2-years
Jackery Explorer 500 vs Goal Zero Yeti 500X
Winner: Toss Up
The Jackery Explorer 500 and the Goal Zero Yeti 500X provide equal functionality, with both having similar capacity, battery tech, output power and number of ports.
TIP: Check out the EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max, with a LiFePO4 battery, 3,000+ charge cycles, 1 hour AC recharge time and 11 total ports.
Feature Jackery EXPLORER 500 Goal Zero Yeti 500X Battery Capacity 518Wh 497Wh Battery Type NMC lithium battery NMC lithium battery Life Span 500 cycles to 80%+ 500 cycles to 80%+ Recharge Time + 7.5 hours via AC and DC
+ 9.5 hours via solar 100W panel+ 10 hours via AC
+ 4.5 hours via 12V car port
+ 6 hours via solar 100W panelAC Output 500W (1,000W surge) 300W (1200W surge) Weight 13.32 lbs (6.04 kg) 12.9 lbs (5.8 kg) Output Ports 7 total ports:
+1x 110V AC
+3x USB-A
+2x DC
+1x car port7 total ports:
+2x 120V AC
+2x USB-A
+1x USB-C PD
+1x USB-C
+1x 12V car portConnectivity No No Remote Control No No
Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus vs Goal Zero Yeti 1000X
Winner: Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus
We choose the Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus over the Goal Zero Yeti 1000X because of its
- Superior LiFePO4 battery technology
- Longer life span of 4,000+ charge cycles
- Faster AC, DC and solar charge times
- More AC output and surge power
Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus Goal Zero Yeti 1000X Battery Capacity 1,264Wh (expands to 5,000Wh) 983WH Battery Type LiFePO4 lithium battery NMC lithium battery Life Span 4,000 cycles to 80%+ capacity 500 cycles to 80%+ capacity Recharge Time + 2 hours via AC
+ 4.5 hours via solar 4x100W panels
+ 7 hours via DC car port+ 9 hours via 120W AC
+ 4.5 hours via 230W AC (add-on)
+ 2 hours via 600W AC (add-on)
+ 9 hours via solar
+ 6 hours via DC car portAC Output 2,000W (4,000W surge) 1,500W (3,500W surge) Weight 32 lbs (14.5 kg) 31.7 lbs (14.37 kg) Output Ports 7 total ports:
+3x AC (120V)
+2x USB-A (18W Max)
+2x USB-C (100W Max)11 total ports:
+2x AC (1500W)
+3x 6mm: 120W Max
+2x USB-A (12W Max)
+1x USB-C PD (60W Max)
+1x USB-C (18W Max)
+1x 12V High Power Port (180W Max)
+1x 12V car port (160W Max)Connectivity No No Remote Control No No Warranty 2-year 2-year
Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus vs Goal Zero Yeti 1500X
Winner: Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus
We choose the Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus over the Goal Zero Yeti 1500X because of its:
- LiFePO4 battery tech
- 4,000+ charge cycle life span
- Faster AC, DC and solar charge times
- More AC output and surge power
- Longer warranty
Feature Jackery EXPLORER 2000 Plus Goal Zero Yeti 1500X Battery Capacity 2,042Wh 1,516Wh Battery Type LiFePO4 NMC Life Span 4,000 cycles to 70%+ capacity 500 cycles to 80%+ Recharge Time – 2 hours via AC
– 2.5 to 4 hours via 200W solar panels
– 25 hours via DC port– 12 hours via AC
– 18-36 hours via 100W solar panels
– 9-18 hours via 200W solar panelsAC Output 3,000W (6,000W surge) 2,000W (3,500W surge) Weight 61.5 lbs (27.9 kg) 45.64 lbs (20.7 kg) Output Ports 8 total:
– 4x AC (2200W)
– 1x AC (25A Max)
– 2x USB-A (18W Max)
– 2x USB-C (100W Max)
– 1x 12V car port10 total:
– 2x AC (2000W)
– 2x USB-A (12W Max)
– 2x 6mm (120W Max)
– 2x High Power Port (360W Max)
– 1x USB-C (18W Max)
– 1x 12V car port (160W Max)Connectivity WiFi WiFi Remote Control Yes Yes Warranty 5 Years 2 years
Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro vs Goal Zero Yeti 3000X
Winner: Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro
We choose the Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro over the Goal Zero Yeti 3000X because of its:
- 1,500 more charge cycles
- Faster AC and solar charge times
- 1000W more AC output and 2500W more surge power
- 3 year longer warranty
Feature Jackery EXPLORER 3000 Pro Goal Zero Yeti 3000X Battery Capacity 3,024Wh 3,032Wh Battery Type NMC NMC Life Span 2,000 charge cycles to 70%+ 500 cycles to 80%+ Recharge Time – 2.4 hours via AC
– 3 to 7 hours via 200W solar panels
– 35 hours via DC car port– 12 hours via AC
– 18-36 hours via 100W solar panels
– 9-18 hours via 200W solar panelsAC Output 3,000W (6,000W surge) 2,000W (3,500W surge) Weight 63.9 lbs (28.9 kg) 69.78 lbs (31.65 kg) Ports 10 total ports:
– 5x AC (2200W)
– 2x USB-A QC3.0 (18W Max)
– 2x USB-C PD (100W Max)
– 1x 12V car port12 total ports:
– 2x AC (2000W
– 2x USB-A (12W Max)
– 2x 6mm (120W Max)
– 2x High Power Port (360W Max)
– 1x USB-C (18W Max)
– 1x 12V car port (160W Max)Connectivity WiFi WiFi Remote Control Yes Yes Warranty 5 years 2 years
Jackery vs Goal Zero: Similarities
- MPPT controllers. Both integrate MPPT controllers into all their portable power stations to maximize solar panel charging efficiency.
- Pass through charging. Both provide pass-through charging, which allows you to power devices while simultaneously recharging the portable battery. This feature is a must-have for emergency situations.
- Durable Design: Both use best in class 94V-0 fireproof materials and certify Level 9 shock resistance for falls up to 0.9 meters.
- Solar generator: You can upgrade any of the power stations to solar generator kit. This includes the portable power station plus solar panels so you have everything you need to run the battery completely off-grid. These are called the Goal Zero Yeti Solar Generator and the Jackery Solar Generator.
- Safety features. Both offer robust protections to keep your devices safe and minimize fire risk, including battery management systems (BMS), overload, short circuit, and overcharge protection.
- Transport: Both provide convenient carrying handles on their models so that you can easily transport your power station wherever you need it.
- No mobile app for smaller portable power stations. Apps offer a lot of convenience for managing and monitoring a power station. While both Goal Zero and Jackery provide apps for their larger power stations, they don’t have them for the smaller Goal Zero 500X and 200X and the Jackery Explorer 300 and 240.
- MPPT controllers. Both integrate MPPT controllers into all their portable power stations to maximize solar panel charging efficiency.
Jackery vs Goal Zero: Differences
- Output Power. Goal Zero has higher AC output on their larger power stations, like the Yeti 6000X, 3000X, and 1500X. Jackery delivers higher output on their smaller batteries, like the Explorer 500, 300 and 240. This tells you how much wattage you can plug into the power station’s AC outlet. Since many devices in the US are powered using a 2 or 3 prong plug, this is one of the most widely used ports.
- Output Power. Goal Zero has higher AC output on their larger power stations, like the Yeti 6000X, 3000X, and 1500X. Jackery delivers higher output on their smaller batteries, like the Explorer 500, 300 and 240. This tells you how much wattage you can plug into the power station’s AC outlet. Since many devices in the US are powered using a 2 or 3 prong plug, this is one of the most widely used ports.
- Pure sine wave inverters. Jackery has pure sine wave inverters on all of their portable power stations. Goal Zero only has pure sine wave inverters on their larger Yeti 6000X, 3000X, 1500X and 1000X, but not on the smaller Yeti 500X and 200X. Pure sine wave inverters convert DC (Direct Current) into AC (Alternating Current) to send a balanced electrical current to your gadgets via the AC outlet. Pure sine wave delivery prevents sensitive devices from getting damaged during charging.
- Pure sine wave inverters. Jackery has pure sine wave inverters on all of their portable power stations. Goal Zero only has pure sine wave inverters on their larger Yeti 6000X, 3000X, 1500X and 1000X, but not on the smaller Yeti 500X and 200X. Pure sine wave inverters convert DC (Direct Current) into AC (Alternating Current) to send a balanced electrical current to your gadgets via the AC outlet. Pure sine wave delivery prevents sensitive devices from getting damaged during charging.
- Solar recharge time. Jackery solar panel recharge time is faster across all their power stations, at 1.8 to 9 hours depending on the size. Goal Zero power stations take longer, anywhere from 7 to 36 hours to charge via solar power.
- Solar recharge time. Jackery solar panel recharge time is faster across all their power stations, at 1.8 to 9 hours depending on the size. Goal Zero power stations take longer, anywhere from 7 to 36 hours to charge via solar power.
- Regulated outlet ports. Goal Zero portable power stations have regulated USB and DC outlet ports, while Jackery only provides regulated DC. Regulated ports ensure your devices receive consistent levels of output. If output drops during charging, the device may power off automatically.
- Regulated outlet ports. Goal Zero portable power stations have regulated USB and DC outlet ports, while Jackery only provides regulated DC. Regulated ports ensure your devices receive consistent levels of output. If output drops during charging, the device may power off automatically.
- High power ports (HPP) and power deliver ports (PD). Goal Zero provides high-power ports (HPP) and/or USB type C power delivery (PD) ports across all of their power stations. This allows for faster, high-speed charging. Jackery provides quick charge USB-A on most of their devices, but the charging speed is less than Goal Zero.
- High power ports (HPP) and power deliver ports (PD). Goal Zero provides high-power ports (HPP) and/or USB type C power delivery (PD) ports across all of their power stations. This allows for faster, high-speed charging. Jackery provides quick charge USB-A on most of their devices, but the charging speed is less than Goal Zero.
- Rugged, impact-resistant design. Goal Zero encases its power stations in anodized aluminum and seals the battery in a separate enclosure inside the device. While both power stations are built to withstand impact, Goal Zero is better designed for long-term wear and tear. Encasing the battery in a separate compartment is also very forward-thinking so that you can replace the battery without worrying about it damaging other internal components.
Jackery vs Goal Zero: Other Comparisons
Output Ports
When it comes to powering up your devices, Jackery and Goal Zero are pretty equal when it comes to outlets. If you do more RV camping, Goal Zero may be a better fit because of the power pole port option.
Jackery and Goal Zero have comparable outlets. However, Goal Zero provides more specialized ports.
Jackery Outlets
Jackery offers all the essential outlets you need for charging phones, tablets, cameras, and other small and medium-sized electronics while on the go.
- 110V / 120V AC 60Hz, 12.5A
- USB-A Quick Charge 3.0
- USB-C Power Delivery PD 5-20V, up to 3.0A
- USB-C 5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, 20V up to 5A
- 12V car cigarette lighter port
Goal Zero Outlets
Goal Zero provides all the essential ports, plus a few more specialized outlets like the power pole port.
- 120V AC 60Hz
- USB-A 5V up to 2.4A
- USB-C 5V, 12V, up to 3.0A
- USB-C Power Delivery (PD)
- 12V car cigarette lighter port
- Power Pole port 12V, up to 15A
Overall, both Jackery and Goal Zero offer plenty of options when it comes to powering up your devices. Whether you need something small enough for backpacking trips or powerful enough for extended stays off the grid, there is sure to be something that fits your needs perfectly.
Output Power
Output is the total power the power station can store. Each outlet can deliver a different level of output or electricity. The output tells you what type of devices you can plug into an outlet, and how many different devices you can connect at the same time before depleting the battery.
For example, if you have a device that requires 300 watts, the outlet you plug into has to provide a minimum of 300W, otherwise, your device will not charge.
Pricing
When it comes to pricing, there is a significant difference between Jackery and Goal Zero.
Goal Zero is 10% – 65% more expensive than Jackery products, depending on the model. In addition, if you want to fast-charge your Goal Zero, you’ll have to purchase a separate power cable, which further increases the price.
The big price difference in the higher capacity Goal Zero 3000X and 6000X makes sense because you’re getting significantly more capacity and output than any of the Jackery models.
The overall price difference can be attributed to Goal Zero’s more rugged metal encasement, specialized outlets, and special features.
Warranty Coverage
Jackery offers a more generous warranty coverage.
Jackery
5 years (2 years, with a free 3-year extension)
- Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro
- Jackery Explorer 1500 Pro
3 years (1 year, with a free 2-year extension)
- Jackery Explorer 1000
- Jackery Explorer 500
- Jackery Explorer 300
- Jackery Explorer 240
Goal Zero
- 2 years for all their products
Conclusion
Both offer a range of high-quality portable power stations with various features that make them great for camping trips or other outdoor activities. While both have their own unique advantages in terms of design, capacity, and outlets; pricing is also an important factor when considering which one to buy.
We all want to be conscious of our environmental footprint and ensure that the products we buy are ethically sourced. That’s why it is so important to research brands like Jackery vs Goal Zero when making purchasing decisions.
Make sure you know where your money goes, and invest in sustainable solutions that prioritize people over profits! Together, let’s make a difference by choosing eco-friendly alternatives and supporting ethical companies with our wallets.
