Anker PowerHouse 521 / Specs Pros & Cons

Battery Capacity: The PowerHouse 521 packs a robust 256Wh lithium-ion battery—a reservoir of energy for your gadgets and small appliances.

• Outputs: It features five outlets:
  • One car socket
  • One three-pin UK socket
  • One fast-charging USB-C
  • Two fast-charging USB-A ports

• Power Range: The 521 can recharge handheld devices, laptops, cameras, and drones. It powers anything rated up to 200W, including fans or a mini-fridge.

What Can It Power?

• Smartphones: Charge your phone multiple times.
• Laptops: Keep your workhorse running.
• Cameras and Drones: Capture memories without interruption.
• Mini-Fridge or Fans: Ideal for camping or power outages.

How Long Will It Last?

Usage time depends on the connected devices and their power draw. For example:

• Charging a laptop (60W) continuously: Approximately 4 hours.
• Running LED lights (10W): Up to 25 hours.

Pros

1. Portability: Comparable to a small car battery, it’s easy to carry and shift around.
2. Silent Operation: No noisy generators disrupting your peace.
3. Power Saving Mode: Automatically cuts power once devices are fully charged.

Cons

1. Limited AC Backup: Not suitable for extended AC use.
2. Price Point: Consider your budget for this entry-level option.

User Feedback and Review Points

Let’s take a look at what users have to say about the Anker PowerHouse 521 Portable Power Station:

• It is ideal for camping trips or weekends away.
• Combining a decent range of ports, good battery performance, and a 100W solar panel, it’s perfect for keeping mobile phones, laptops, and even a mini-fridge powered while away from traditional outlets.
• The lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries offer long-term durability.
• Despite its compact size, it features USB-A ports, a USB-C port, a 12V car-type port, and an AC socket.
• Not ideal for AC backup or UPS use.

• The Anker 521 PowerHouse is a portable power station ideal for overnight trips.
• It provides great flexibility for camping or emergency situations.
• Charging using both the USB-C and 60W DC input takes some time.
• The display for charge and discharge times and load wattage can be inaccurate.

• Anker 521 PowerHouse boasts good material quality and robust build.
• The plastic case is insensitive and durable.
• It’s backed by an impressive five-year warranty.

Initial Impressions:

• Anker 521 is suitable for daily use, especially for transferring solar power. The compact design, fast charging, and pass-through capabilities are impressive.
• However, a significant drawback: the lack of a true “off” mode. Even in economy mode with all ports off, it still consumes 1-2% battery per day.
• Maximum AC output is limited to 200W, restricting certain high-power devices.

Solar Input and Voltage:

• Anker 521 accepts solar input up to approximately 65W (via solar panels or USB-C PD).
• The lack of clear information about the maximum input voltage concerned some users. Anker’s support suggested using any “12V-28V solar charger with DC 7909 Male connector,” but this response left room for improvement.

Battery Longevity:

• Many users appreciate the LiFePO4 battery’s longevity (3000 cycles) compared to typical NMC batteries (500+ cycles).
• However, individual needs may vary, and some users might find other models better suited to their requirements.

Solar Charging Options

Anker PowerHouse 521 is compatible with several solar panels, allowing you to harness clean energy from the sun. Here are some options:

Anker 625 Solar Panel (ad):

• Specifically designed for the PowerHouse series (including the 521).
• Lightweight and efficient, featuring both USB-C and USB-A output ports.
• Ideal for road trips, camping, and RV adventures.

Rockpals Solar Panel 120W/18V (ad):

• Compatible with the PowerHouse 521.
• Offers a QC 3.0 port and a USB-C output.
• Includes an 8mm barrel connector.
• When connecting solar panels, ensure they have an output voltage compatible with the PowerHouse 521 (up to 28 volts).

Rockpals Solar Panel can charge it in approximately 4-8 hours, depending on sunlight intensity and optimal alignment. Remember to position the solar panel correctly to capture direct sunlight for efficient charging.

Best Use Cases

1. Camping and Outdoor Adventures: Take it on road trips, beach outings, or wild hikes.
2. Home Backup: Keep essentials running during power outages.
3. Traveling by Car or RV: Perfect for charging devices on the go.

Anker PowerHouse 521 isn’t just about watts and volts; it’s about freedom—the freedom to explore, work remotely, and embrace sustainable living. Invest in this versatile companion and empower your energy journey today!

Anker PowerHouse 521 takes approximately 1 hour to charge from 0% to 80% using the X-Stream technology. Keep in mind that the charging time may vary based on the power source and the connected solar panels if you’re using them.

Anker PowerHouse 521 is not designed to power large appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, or washing machines. It’s best suited for charging smaller devices such as laptops, smartphones, and LED lights. For heavy-duty appliances, consider a larger power station with higher capacity.

In summary, users appreciate its portability, range of ports, and reliable performance. However, it’s essential to consider its limitations when planning your power needs.

In summary, it offers convenience and reliability but has room for improvement in terms of power output and energy efficiency. If you prioritize longevity and daily solar use, it could be a good fit.

Remember that these opinions reflect individual experiences, so consider your specific needs when evaluating this product.