My idea of a great weekend away is going camping. If you feel the same, you’ll know that the more you camp, the greater the need for camping ‘gadgets.’ Luckily, I recently had the opportunity to test the BLUETTI PV200 solar panel during one of my trips. BLUETTI sent me the solar panel to try out and share my honest opinion.
To evaluate its effectiveness, I paired it with the BLUETTI EB55 portable power station. The idea was to test the solar panel and power station for charging our camping kit, including lanterns, a portable speaker, phones, and headlamps (6 x AAA batteries).
This review is my unfiltered experience with the PV200, detailing how it handles real-world outdoor conditions and its synergy with the EB55 power station.
Great Deals
Check BLUETTI's site for deals on the PV200
BLUETTI PV200 Review
Manufacturer: BLUETTI
Pros
Cons
Should You Buy The BLUETTI PV200?
Whether or not you pick up the BLUETTI PV200 200w solar panel comes down to how you're going to use it. If you're the type who loves to hit the trails, camp under the stars, or spend weekends in a van exploring offbeat paths, this panel will be up your alley.
For me, the game-changer was that, with the panel, I effectively took my single discharge battery and turned it into an ‘unlimited’ power station. It extends my off-grid range as long as there is sunshine. Happy days.
Its 200W power output and high-efficiency cells mean you won’t be left hanging when keeping your devices juiced up. It’s a solid choice for supplying your portable power station with enough energy to power everything from your phone and camera to your regular camping gadgets.
Given the PV200’s specs, I imagine it will also work great in your RV power station set up for powering your regular electronics. And if you have a bigger power station like the BLUETTI EB70s, you’ll be able to get more mileage out of your solar and run your devices for longer.
Sturdy box so your panel arrives in perfect condition.
What About The Cost?
When it comes to the price of the BLUETTI PV200 solar panel, it's important to consider what you're getting for your money. The regular retail price is $499, which may initially seem a bit steep, especially if you're just dipping your toes into the world of solar power.
However, when you break down what this panel offers, the price starts to make a lot of sense.
For outdoor enthusiasts who are often off the grid, the efficiency and reliability of your gear are non-negotiable. The PV200’s high-efficiency monocrystalline cells and durable build mean it's not just another piece of equipment but a long-term investment in your outdoor adventures.
It's the kind of gear that won't let you down when you're miles away from civilization and need to keep your devices powered.
I would also recommend keeping an eye on BLUETTI’s website, as they regularly run specials on their units. At the time of writing this BLUETTI PV200 review, the website has it listed at $399.
Overall, I’d say this is a reliable solar energy provider for your BLUETTI power station. You get what you pay for in terms of quality, which I’ll touch on more in the sections below.
See Other Portable Power Stations
Still making up your mind about a portable power station to complement the BLUETTI PV200? No need to sift through hundreds of reviews to get the info you need - we've done the time-consuming work for you!
Check out our expert reviews on the best portable power banks, the BLUETTI EB3A, the BLUETTI EB55, and the BLUETTI EB70s.
BLUETTI PV200 Features
- Maximum power output: 200W
- Cell efficiency: Peaks at 23.4% thanks to monocrystalline solar cells
- Voltage and current: Voltage at Maximum Power (Vmp) of 20.5V and a Current at Maximum Power (Imp) of 9.7A
- Open circuit voltage (OCV): Stands at 26.1V, with a Short Circuit Current (Isc) of 10.3A
- Temperature range: Can operate between -10°C and 65°C, with an optimal working temperature of 25°C
- Cable length: 3-meter cable
- Connectors: MC4 connectors, standard across most solar equipment, BLUETTI or otherwise
- Certifications: Meets FCC, CE, and ROHS standards
Warranty: 12-month warranty
Power and Performance
In the ideal world, the PV200 has a maximum power output of 200W. But from my understanding, that’s only possible under perfect conditions. The maximum output I managed to get was 170W.
For context, this was at midday in bright sunshine. That said, it was in mid-spring when the temperature was just over 20 degrees Celsius. So, this reading can possibly be improved in stronger sunlight or on a warmer day. I’ll keep you updated.
The panel folds up neatly.
Despite the 170W output, I managed to charge the EB55 power station from flat to full in 3hr 45 minutes. This is within BLUETTI’s estimated charge time and a perfectly acceptable time frame, in my opinion.
It’s also worth noting that this solar charge time was very close to how long it took to charge the power station using the mains.
BLUETTI will tell you that its monocrystalline solar cells give a higher than market-average cell efficiency - 23.4% vs the average of between 20-23%. This means you get more energy converted out of the available sunlight. It’s quicker charging times for your power station.
The BLUETTI EB55 power station is compatible with the PV200 solar panel.
Design and Build
A few key aspects stand out for me when looking at the design and build of the BLUETTI PV200 solar panel.
The panel is constructed from ETFE (Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) lamination. ETFE is renowned for its longevity and ability to resist the harshness of outdoor elements. Considering this gear is expected to endure everything from blazing sun to unexpected rain showers, this is helpful. I haven’t had my solar panel for that long yet, so time will tell.
Speaking of rainfall, according to BLUETTI, the panel is water-resistant. But you shouldn’t soak it or expose it to rain. This makes sense to me, and considering how easy it is to fold up and pack away the panel, it’s a non-issue in my book.
Portability is another strong suit of the PV200. It’s designed to be foldable, which is a real game-changer for packing, transporting, and storage.
Folded, the panel's dimensions are a compact 590 x 630 x 47 mm. That’s about twice the size of a laptop bag.
There's a cable pouch on the back of the folded panel.
Despite the 170W output, I managed to charge the EB55 power station from flat to full in 3hr 45 minutes. This is within BLUETTI’s estimated charge time and a perfectly acceptable time frame, in my opinion.
It’s also worth noting that this solar charge time was very close to how long it took to charge the power station using the mains.
BLUETTI will tell you that its monocrystalline solar cells give a higher than market-average cell efficiency - 23.4% vs the average of between 20-23%. This means you get more energy converted out of the available sunlight. It’s quicker charging times for your power station.
Charging in the campsite on solar.
Design and Build
A few key aspects stand out for me when looking at the design and build of the BLUETTI PV200 solar panel.
The panel is constructed from ETFE (Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) lamination. ETFE is renowned for its longevity and ability to resist the harshness of outdoor elements. Considering this gear is expected to endure everything from blazing sun to unexpected rain showers, this is helpful. I haven’t had my solar panel for that long yet, so time will tell.
Speaking of rainfall, according to BLUETTI, the panel is water-resistant. But you shouldn’t soak it or expose it to rain. This makes sense to me, and considering how easy it is to fold up and pack away the panel, it’s a non-issue in my book.
Portability is another strong suit of the PV200. It’s designed to be foldable, which is a real game-changer for packing, transporting, and storage.
Folded, the panel's dimensions are a compact 590 x 630 x 47 mm. That’s about twice the size of a laptop bag.
Great Deals
BLUETTI often runs deals for the PV200
Unfolded, it expands to 590 x 2,265 x 23 mm. The surface area is made up of four connected, flexible panels that stack neatly on each other to become super portable.
A nice feature that caught my attention was the adjustable foldable kickstand legs on the solar panel. A strap and button closure on each leg lets you angle the PV200 just right to catch the sun’s rays. You can set the panel flat or choose from three different angles to maximize the sunshine.
Strap and button closures mean you can angle the panel to the sun.
You’ll notice three legs for four panels, so one panel sometimes' leans’ a little bit. That said, the legs are positioned to spread the weight.
One final note on the design is that the panel weighs 7.3 kg, so it’s easy to carry around or tuck away in the Landy.
Operational Features
Let’s chat about some of the operational features of the BLUETTI PV200 solar panel.
Firstly, the panel can operate in a decent temperature range between -10°C and 65°C. It means I can set this up early in the morning or midday heat, and it’ll work fine. The optimal working temperature of 25°C is pretty standard and in line with the industry norm.
Then, the 3-meter cable that comes with the panel could be slightly longer, in my opinion. I prefer to set the power station up in Landy, where there’s a bit of shade. This means I only have a 3-meter reach for positioning the solar panel. It’s not the end of the world, but I did get an extension for this.
Panel laid flat.
Compatibility and Extras
A key aspect of the panel’s usability is the MC4 connectors. These connectors are standard in the solar industry, and the fact that the PV200 works with them means it’s compatible with a range of solar generators, including those made by other brands.
Of course, the generator (BLUETTI or otherwise) would have to have compatible input requirements for you to pair it with the solar panel.
You can also use more than one solar panel connected in series as long as they are all the same model. However, keep in mind the maximum input wattage for your device. For example, my EB55 can only take one solar panel.
Final Thoughts
In wrapping up my review of the BLUETTI PV200 solar panel, I've come to see it as a reliable gadget for anyone who, like me, spends a significant amount of time outdoors or wants to build on their off-grid lifestyle.
Using the PV200, I've found that it’s not just about keeping devices charged; it's about the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a dependable power source when you're miles from the nearest outlet.
Regarding the price, I feel that the PV200's cost reflects its quality and capabilities. While it might be a bit of an investment, for someone like me who regularly finds themselves out in the mountains, it's a purchase that makes sense in the long run.