We have translated enough portable power stations, some of which stretch the “portable” definition. While many of these products can clearly meet any power needs during blackouts or emergencies, not everyone needs 3000W or more power, especially for fast travel outdoors or when spending all day work somewhere that is less accessible . That’s where Cellblue Cellpoy500 (CP500) enters. We recently tested the power plant to see what he could give and happily with the results.
Design
It must be refreshing to review a portable power plant that will not filter a person’s back when trying to lift it. Of course, weighing 17.2lb (7.8kg) is not a problem of laughing, but nothing compared to several hulking power stations on the market. Weight reduction means this model skimps a little when it comes to battery capacity, which we will pay later, but it is important to note the CP500 is not designed for a greater type of use scenario as a larger product.
Bigblue designed Cellpow500 to be easy to carry for short outdoor activities from the grid. In addition to its relatively light weight, the CP500 sports handle can be drawn, the design that makes it easier to carry the device while avoiding the hassle when it is the time to place a power plant in storage. That said, the top of a box-shaped device has a curved surface that is less ideal for placing objects, because they might slide dead.
The CP500 design is Spartan with a focus on more comfort than anything. All input and output ports are located on the front so the cable does not run from all sides. The fan ventilation is only on the left side, meaning you just need to think of ventilation on the one hand. Meanwhile, the device has large LED lights with two intensity settings and SOS modes that blink. As a result, you don’t need to be satisfied with a narrow beam of light when groping in the dark.
Battery and Output
As mentioned, Bigblue Cellpow500 sacrifices battery capacity for portability, but it is not a knock on it. Everyone has different needs, and CP500 meets these needs for many consumers. For some users, the 537.6Wh battery is enough to get it throughout the day, especially considering the other benefits of the device offered.
Despite its compact size, there are ports available for each type of device and needs, including two 120V AC outlets, car chargers, two DC type barrels output, DC input for AC chargers and solar panels, two USB-A ports, and two 60W USB-C port. Capacity and output CP500 means it can charge or turn almost all things, including a 45W car refrigerator. However, the USB-C 60W output may not be enough for several laptops. Consumers in countries where 200V AC or higher is the norm will also want to record the limitations of power plants in that matter.
Charging
Like portable power stations, a 500W battery will not last forever and ultimately need to be recharged. Smaller batteries, relatively talking, means the cost of CP500 is faster than a larger model, plus the Bigblue feature included to make a faster process.
Cellpow500 supports your typical charging options, including car chargers, AC, diesel, and USB-c. When using one source, it will take at least 6 hours to recharge the battery of the power plant completely; If you use a car charger, it will naturally take longer due to lower power output. What makes the CP500 special is its support to combine charging DC and USB-C to speed up the process, finally reducing how long it takes a power plant to refill. When using an AC adapter and two USB-C ports for input, CP500 can switch from zero to full in about 2 hours.
The Bigblue power plant also supports solar power, of course, but uses the same DC input with an AC charger, so you cannot use both methods simultaneously. The company sells its own solar panel set for that purpose, and CP500 supports MPTT technology to make it faster.
Wrap-up
With increasing power interruptions caused by bad weather conditions throughout the country, the need for alternative resources also increases. There is a power plant in the market which includes almost every scenario and budget of use, but some consumers need portable friends, especially for the times you need to pack and go quickly.
The Bigblue Cellpow500 must meet the required with a lightweight design and several output options. The device will not turn on your entire house in an emergency, but will let you enjoy a day in the sun without worrying about your gadget.
With a little disadvantage, the $ 499 CP500 provides a compact and reliable portable power solution, which doesn’t take too much or too much costs to function as a resource resource on the days of storm.