Can the Explorer 500 run a fridge?

Only a small, efficient fridge that draws under 500W continuous, and its 1,000W surge may not cover a compressor start. Most full-size fridges need a larger station.

How long does it take to recharge?

About 7.5 hours from a wall outlet or a 12V car charger. Solar charging depends on panel wattage and sunlight.

Does it include a solar panel?

No. The box has the station and the required cables; a solar panel is sold separately.

What can it power at once?

One AC appliance up to 500W, plus three USB-A devices and two 12V DC devices. Total USB output is capped at 30W.

Is it safe for laptops and phones?

Yes. The AC output is a pure sine wave, and the battery management system guards against overcharging and overheating.

How does it compare with the Explorer 1000?

The Explorer 1000 doubles the capacity and output but weighs considerably more. The 500 is the lighter choice for small devices.

Where is the Jackery Explorer 500 cheapest?

At Mili Mart, for $53.09, 87% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

Where can I buy the Jackery Explorer 500?

13 stores we checked sell it, including Mili Mart, WoodArtSupply, Grid Getaway, All Pro Generators, ShopSolar.com.

Jackery Explorer 500 Price History: $53.09 at Mili Mart

What reviewers say

Owners treat the Explorer 500 as a dependable small-device station: quiet, light enough to carry and simple to recharge. The common complaint is the 500W ceiling and slow wall charging, which push bigger loads and faster top-ups toward larger models.

What people mention

Output powerCriticisedOwners say 500W is fine for small devices but cannot run kettles, heaters or other high-draw appliances.
PortabilityPraisedThe 13.3 lb weight and foldable handle make it easy to move between car, tent and home.
NoisePraisedIt runs quietly at about 37.9 dB, so it does not disturb a campsite or a room.
Charging speedCriticisedA full wall recharge takes about 7.5 hours, which owners find slow.
Solar chargingMixedSolar recharging works, but the panel is sold separately and adds to the setup.
Battery lifeMixedThe 800-cycle rating to 80% capacity is seen as adequate but behind newer lithium iron phosphate stations.

From ShopSolar.com

518Wh lithium battery with 500W pure sine wave inverter (1,000W surge)
Multiple output ports: 1x AC outlet, 3x USB-A, 2x DC ports, 1x car port
3 ways to recharge: AC wall outlet, solar panel (sold separately), or 12V car charger
Ultra-quiet operation at just 37.9dB
Lightweight and portable at 13.3 lbs with a foldable handle
Smart Battery Management System (BMS) guards against overcharging and overheating

Materials: Li-ion NMC battery
Guarantee: Backed by Jackery's 2+1 Year Warranty; full manufacturer warranty plus free lifetime technical support from ShopSolar.
Returns: 30-day returns.
Shipping: Orders processed in 24–48 hours; free shipping; average shipping times 3-7 days; ships from US warehouses in CA, TX and NY.
In the box: 1 x Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station, All required cables and connectors