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When you are away from wall outlets, a portable solar charger can keep your phone, headlamp, or GPS running. These compact devices turn sunlight into usable power, but they vary in wattage, weight, and whether they store energy in a built-in battery. Understanding these differences helps you pick the right one for day hikes, camping, or emergency kits.
We compared four portable solar chargers from Renogy and Goal Zero that cover a range of sizes and features. All are designed for small USB devices and fold up for easy carrying. The table below shows how they stack up in solar power, USB output, weight, and more.
Every specification on this page comes from the manufacturer’s own product page, checked on 29 October 2026. We have not used these products ourselves, so the picks are based on published specifications only.
For more on getting started with portable solar, see our Portable Solar Basics guide and our comparison of portable solar panels for beginners.
How we chose these
- Solar Power Output Higher wattage panels can charge devices faster or handle larger power banks, while lower wattage is fine for phones and small gadgets.
- Portability Weight and folded size matter if you carry the charger in a backpack. Lighter panels are easier to strap to a pack or tent.
- Battery or Panel-Only Some chargers have a built-in battery that stores energy for later use. Panel-only models need sunlight at the moment of charging.
- Durability Look for weather resistance and sturdy construction if you use the charger outdoors in rain, dust, or rough conditions.
All four chargers use monocrystalline solar cells and include a USB port for direct device charging.
Comparison table
| Product | Solar Power | USB Output | Weight | Built-in Battery | Protection Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renogy E.POWER 16000mAh | 5V/300mA (solar input) | QC USB-A: 5-6.5V/3A, 6.5-9V/2A, 9-12V/1.5A; USB-C: 5V/3A, 9V/2A | 14.29 oz | Yes (16000mAh) | IP67 |
| Goal Zero Nomad 20 | 20W | 5V/2.1A (10.5W max) | 2.28 lbs | No | Not stated |
| Goal Zero Nomad 10 | 10W | 5V/1.5A (7.5W max) | 1.12 lbs | No | Not stated |
| Goal Zero Nomad 5 | 5W | 5V/1A (5W max) | 12.7 oz | No | Not stated |
Solar charge times vary based on sun angle, cloud cover, and temperature. All Goal Zero panels listed are panel-only and do not store power; the Renogy E.POWER includes a lithium-ion battery.
1. Renogy E.POWER 16000mAh Portable Solar Charger: for all-in-one solar charging with battery storage
Renogy says the E.POWER 16000mAh Portable Solar Charger uses a high-efficiency solar panel to capture sunlight and store power. It supports Quick Charge technology with up to 18W output. The unit has an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, and includes a multi-mode LED flashlight.
- Battery capacity: 16000mAh (Renogy)
- Solar panel input: 5V/300mA (Renogy)
- Weight: 14.29 oz (Renogy)
Pros: Built-in battery stores energy for nighttime use; Quick Charge output; IP67 weather resistance; includes flashlight
Cons: Solar panel input is slow at 300mA; heavier than the Nomad 5
Check the Renogy E.POWER 16000mAh Portable Solar Charger on Amazon
2. Goal Zero Nomad 20: for higher-wattage solar charging of multiple devices
Goal Zero describes the Nomad 20 as a 20-watt foldable solar panel with a built-in kickstand and integrated USB port. It can charge phones, power banks, and small USB devices directly from sunlight. The panel is chainable via an 8mm cable for faster charging.
- Rated power: 20W (Goal Zero)
- Folded size: 11.5 x 7.4 x 1.25 in (Goal Zero)
- Cable length: 6 ft (Goal Zero)
Pros: Higher wattage for faster charging; chainable with additional panels; includes both USB and 8mm output
Cons: No built-in battery; heavier than smaller panels
Check the Goal Zero Nomad 20 on Amazon
3. Goal Zero Nomad 10: for lightweight, compact solar charging on the go
The Nomad 10 is a 10-watt portable solar panel from Goal Zero, featuring a lightweight design and adjustable kickstand. It has a USB port that delivers up to 7.5W for charging small devices like phones and headlamps.
- Rated power: 10W (Goal Zero)
- Weight: 1.12 lbs (Goal Zero)
- Folded size: 9.5 x 7.2 x 1.25 in (Goal Zero)
Pros: Very lightweight; compact folded size; adjustable kickstand for optimal sun angle
Cons: Lower wattage than larger panels; no built-in battery
Check the Goal Zero Nomad 10 on Amazon
4. Goal Zero Nomad 5: for ultralight solar charging of small USB devices
Goal Zero’s Nomad 5 is a compact 5-watt solar panel with a USB output of up to 5W. It has a dock for Goal Zero Flip power banks and a kickstand that can be set up to 180 degrees.
- Rated power: 5W (Goal Zero)
- Weight: 12.7 oz (Goal Zero)
- Max leg angle: 180 degrees (Goal Zero)
Pros: Smallest and lightest option; built-in dock for Goal Zero Flip power banks; simple to use
Cons: Lowest wattage; slow charging for larger devices; no battery storage
Check the Goal Zero Nomad 5 on Amazon
Which one fits you
| Your situation | Look at | Why |
|---|---|---|
| You need to charge devices while hiking and want a lightweight panel | Nomad 5 or Nomad 10 | Compact and easy to strap to a pack; the Nomad 5 is especially light at 12.7 oz. |
| You want a single device that stores solar energy for later | Renogy E.POWER 16000mAh | Built-in 16000mAh battery lets you charge at night or when the sun is not out. |
| You need to charge multiple devices or larger power banks | Nomad 20 | Higher 20W wattage and chainable design allow faster charging and more flexibility. |
| You prioritize weather resistance for outdoor use | Renogy E.POWER 16000mAh | IP67 rating protects against dust and splashes, according to Renogy. |
Practical tips
- Match the panel wattage to your device’s charging needs; a 5W panel is fine for a phone, but a tablet may need 10W or more.
- If you need power after sunset, choose a charger with a built-in battery or pair a panel with a separate power bank.
- Check the folded size and weight if you plan to carry the charger in a backpack.
- Look for a kickstand or mounting options to angle the panel toward the sun for better efficiency.
Sources
Specifications from each manufacturer’s product page, checked 29 October 2026: Renogy E.POWER 16000mAh Portable Solar Charger, Goal Zero Nomad 20, Goal Zero Nomad 10, Goal Zero Nomad 5. Makers can change specifications; check the product page before you buy.
