Quick Picks by Use Case
Figuring out what size generator you need comes down to two numbers: how many watts your devices draw and how long you need them to run. Get those right, and picking a power station is simple.
| Use Case | Recommended Unit | Output | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camping / Weekend Trips | EcoFlow DELTA 2 + 110W Solar | 1800W | $1,149 |
| RV / Extended Off-Grid | EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max + 400W Solar | 3400W | $1,399 |
| Home Backup (Essentials) | EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 | 4000W | $2,299 |
| Whole-Home / Long Outages | EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra + Battery | 7200W | $4,199 |
How to Calculate What Size Generator You Need
Step 1: List every device you want to power. Check the label or manual for wattage. Common loads: mini fridge (~100W), CPAP (~30–60W), laptop (~65W), window AC (~1200W), electric kettle (~1500W).
Step 2: Add up running watts, then check starting watts. Motors (fridges, AC units) spike 2–3× at startup. Your power station's rated output must exceed that peak.
Step 3: Multiply running watts × hours to get Wh needed. Example: 500W of devices running 4 hours = 2000Wh. Pick a unit at or above that capacity — and factor in ~80–85% real-world efficiency.
Quick rule of thumb: under 1000Wh = camping/day trips, 1000–3000Wh = RV or multi-day outages, 3000Wh+ = serious home backup.
Best Power Stations by Size
Light duty (camping, devices, CPAP): The EcoFlow DELTA 2 + 110W Solar Panel is a compact, solar-ready combo that handles everyday outdoor power needs at an accessible price point.
Mid-range (RV, job site, multi-day backup): The EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max + 400W Solar Panel delivers 3400W output with X-Boost and expandable capacity up to 6144Wh — enough to run 99% of home appliances.
Heavy-duty home backup: The EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 puts out 4000W — refrigerators, sump pumps, and power tools, no problem. The EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra + Battery steps it up to 7200W for extended whole-home coverage.
EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max + 400W Solar Panel
$1,399.00
3400W output, up to 6144Wh expandable, LFP battery, 3000+ cycles
Shop Now — Free ShippingEcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station Solar Generator
$2,299.00
4000W output — powers nearly all home essentials
Shop Now — Free ShippingExpand Your Capacity Later
Don't want to overbuy upfront? Start smaller and scale. The Jackery 1000 Plus Battery Pack adds 1264Wh of LiFePO4 capacity to your Explorer 1000 Plus — nearly doubling your runtime for under $400.
Pair with the Jackery 10m DC Extension Cable to position solar panels for max sun without moving your station. Small accessory, big difference in daily harvest.
Bottom line: Buy the output (watts) you need today. Buy the capacity (Wh) you can grow into. Most quality power stations are modular — your first unit doesn't have to be your last.
Jackery 1000 Plus Battery Pack — 1264Wh LiFePO4 Expansion
$399.00
1264Wh LiFePO4 | 4000+ charge cycles | Expands Explorer 1000 Plus
Shop Now — Free ShippingFrequently Asked Questions
What size generator do I need to run a refrigerator?
Most refrigerators run at 100–400W but spike to 800–1200W on startup. You need a power station with at least 1500W rated output and 1000–2000Wh of capacity for overnight runtime. The EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max handles this easily.
Is a 2000Wh power station enough for home backup?
For essentials — lights, phone, laptop, CPAP, mini fridge — yes, 2000Wh buys you 12–24 hours. For full home backup including AC or electric appliances, step up to the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 (4000W) or higher.
Can I add solar panels to any of these power stations?
Yes — all featured EcoFlow and Jackery units support solar input. Use the correct connector adapter (Jackery DC7909/DC8020 adapters available at Swag House) and make sure your panel wattage stays within the unit's max solar input rating.
Leave a comment