2025 Buying Guide - Power Stations

Objective: choose the right energy station for your uses (home, camping, vanlife, construction site, emergency) without overpaying or lacking autonomy.

Why an energy station ?

A power station is a portable battery with built-in AC inverter, AC outlets, USB-A/USB-C PD, sometimes cigarette lighter and solar input. It replaces small, noisy, gasoline-powered generators: zero smoke , silent , instant , usable indoors.

  • Safety & silence: no gasoline, no exhaust fumes.
  • Versatility: powers smartphones, PC, TV, fridge/mini-fridge, tools, CPAP, etc.
  • Mobility: handle, compact size, often pass-through (charges during use).

The 8 essential criteria for choosing well

  1. Capacity (Wh): determines the autonomy. More Wh = more hours of use.
  2. Inverter power (W): Continuous power the station can supply to the AC outlets. Also check the peak power for startup current draw.
  3. Battery Chemistry:
    • LiFePO₄ : very long lifespan (2000+ typical cycles), thermally stable.
    • NMC : more compact/lighter with equal capacity, but often shorter cycle life.
  4. Outputs: AC (French sockets), USB-C PD (65–140 W), USB-A, 12 V (cigarette lighter).
  5. Charging: mains (GaN/PD), MPPT solar , 12V car. Look at the input power (W) and the time 0→100%.
  6. Weight & portability: handle, wheels (large models), luggage size.
  7. Display & Apps: Battery %, W input/output, estimated battery life, Bluetooth/Wi-Fi app.
  8. Guarantees & security: protections (overheating, short circuit, overvoltage), 2-year LymobileShop warranty .

Capabilities & Use Cases

Quick references (indicative values, depends on your devices and the efficiency of the inverter).

Ability Typical uses Examples of devices
200–300 Wh Day trips, mobile office Smartphones, tablets, drones, ultra-portable PCs, LEDs
500–700 Wh Camping/light van weekend Laptop, mini fridge (occasional), projector, CPAP
900–1200 Wh Vanlife, power outages TV, extended mini-fridge, light tools, multiple devices
1500–2000 Wh Rescued house, mobile construction site Standard fridge (according to W peak), short microwave, tools
3000 Wh+ Heavy use, events, long-term relief Multiple power-hungry devices at the same time

Ready to choose? Discover our Energy Stations and filter by capacity to find the perfect model.

Calculating autonomy: the really simple method

Formula: Autonomy (hours) ≈ (Capacity Wh × 0.85) ÷ Device power (W). The 0.85 approximates inverter/converter losses.

  • Ex. 1000 Wh station + 100 W TV → ~ (1000×0.85)/100 ≈ 8.5 h .
  • Ex. 512 Wh station + 60 W PC → ~ (512×0.85)/60 ≈ 7.2 h .

For motors/compressors (fridge, tools), check the peak power of the inverter (e.g. 2000 W peak) to support the start-up.

Charging: mains, solar, car

  • Mains: faster and more reliable. 300–1200 W input depending on model. GaN/PD on small formats.
  • Solar (MPPT): Aim for 100–400 W foldable panels. Check the input voltage and the max W supported by the station.
  • Car (12 V): practical on the road, slower (typically 100–120 W).

Tip: for off-grid use, size a 200–400 W solar kit + 1 kWh station to recharge in 3–6 hours of good sunshine.

Use case scenarios (and how to size)

1) Camping / Vanlife

Prioritize weight and solar. Aim for 500–1200 Wh + 200–400 W solar input + 100 W USB-C PD for laptops.

2) Home / Power outages

Capacity 1000–2000 Wh minimum + 1000–2000 W inverter. Provide extension cords for fridge/box/lighting.

3) Construction site / Tools

Crucial inverter power (1500–2400 W). Check peak for drills/saws. 1000 Wh+ capacity recommended.

4) Photo/video / Events

Multiple outputs (AC + 2× USB-C PD). Capacity 500–1000 Wh. Quiet and stable = top.

5) Health / CPAP*

Consumption 30–60 W depending on setting. Capacity 500–1000 Wh to last overnight + charging option during use.

*Always validate compatibility/power with your medical equipment.

FAQ

LiFePO₄ or NMC: which to choose?

LiFePO₄ = very long lifespan and stability, ideal for intensive use. NMC = more compact/lighter with the same capacity. For a long-term purchase, LiFePO₄ is often the best option.

What inverter power should I choose?

List your appliances (W) and keep a margin of 20–30%. Watch the peak for motorized appliances.

Can I take it on a plane?

Generally not more than 160 Wh. Batteries <=100 Wh are acceptable in the cabin, 100–160 Wh by agreement with the airline. Check before the flight.

Is solar energy essential?

No, but it's ideal off-grid. Check the station's W and input voltage, and use compatible (MPPT) panels.

How long does it take to recharge?

Depends on input W. E.g. 1000 Wh with 500 W input ≈ 2–2.5 h (varies depending on BMS/temperature).

Express glossary

  • Wh : energy (autonomy).
  • W (continuous / peak) : power supplied (instantaneous / start-up).
  • MPPT : optimized solar charge controller.
  • USB-C PD : fast charging up to 140W depending on model.
  • DoD : Depth of Discharge, affects longevity.
  • Delivery : free in mainland France.
  • Returns : 30 days money back guarantee.
  • Warranty : 2 years LymobileShop.
  • Payment : secure (credit card, PayPal). 3x/4x if available.

Also explore our Powerbanks and Chargers & Cables to complete your setup.