1.
Know Your Core Needs
• Purpose: Camping, emergency backup, RV life, or off-grid work?
• Devices & Wattage: List every gadget you’ll run (laptop, CPAP, fridge, power tools) and note its rated watts. Add 20 % headroom.
• Runtime: Calculate Wh = Watts × Hours. Example: 60 W mini-fridge × 8 h = 480 Wh.
2.
Battery Chemistry
• LiFePO₄ (LFP): 3,000–5,000 cycles, safer, heavier.
• NMC: Lighter, 800–1,000 cycles, higher energy density.
• LiFePO₄ is now the default for long-term use; choose NMC only for ultra-light travel kits.
3.
Capacity & Output
• Capacity: Look for usable Wh (not raw Wh). 500 Wh ≈ 1–2 days of light camping; 1 kWh+ for multi-day or home backup.
• Continuous AC Output: Match or exceed your highest single device. 300 W for laptops, 1,000–2,000 W for power tools.
• Surge Rating: Inductive loads (fridges, drills) need 2–3× surge headroom.
4.
Ports & Charging Speed
• Ports: 3–6 AC outlets, USB-C PD 60–140 W, 12 V car socket, Anderson/DC barrel for solar.
• Recharge Time: 0–80 % in <1 h via 600–1,000 W wall charger is now mainstream.
• Solar Input: ≥200 W MPPT lets you refill 500–1,000 Wh units in 3–5 h of good sun.
5.
Weight vs. Mobility
• <5 kg: pocket-size 100–300 Wh packs for day trips.
• 5–15 kg: 500–1,000 Wh “handle & wheels” units—sweet spot for most users.
• >15 kg: 1.5 kWh+ units with trolley; consider split-battery designs if stairs are an issue.
6.
Safety & Certification
• Verify UL 2743, CE, FCC, UN38.3 for cells.
• Look for temperature-tolerant BMS (-10 °C to 45 °C operating range).
• Fire-retardant (V-0) casing and overload/short-circuit protection are non-negotiable.
7.
Smart Features & Ecosystem
• App Control: Real-time SOC, temp, remote on/off.
• Modular Expansion: Some brands (EcoFlow DELTA 2, Anker 767) accept extra battery packs.
• UPS Mode: <20 ms switchover for PCs or medical devices.