Looking for a compact, affordable power station for your weekend camping trips or home backup needs? The Anker 522 PowerHouse is a lightweight, LiFePO4-powered solution ideal for charging small devices off-grid or during emergencies. This guide covers everything you need to know about the Anker 522 — including specs, performance, portability, and value — to help you decide if it’s the right portable power station for you.
- Anker 522 Portable Power Station B2C – US Black Iteration 1
Product Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 299Wh |
| Inverter Power | 300W (600W surge) |
| Battery Type | LiFePO4 (3,000+ cycles) |
| Weight | 8.2 lbs (3.7 kg) |
| Dimensions | 8.5 x 5.7 x 5.8 in |
| Charging Methods | AC, Solar (max 65W), USB-C |
| Solar Input Port | XT60 |
| AC Outlets | 2 x 110V (pure sine wave) |
| USB Ports | 2 x USB-A, 1 x USB-C |
| DC Car Port | 1 x 12V |
Performance
The Anker 522 PowerHouse is designed for light-duty use, powering smartphones, tablets, laptops, small fans, and LED lights with ease. With a 300W inverter (600W surge), it can handle basic electronics, but it’s not built for power-hungry appliances like microwaves or coffee makers.
- Ideal output for devices under 300W
- Pure sine wave ensures safe charging for sensitive electronics
- Supports pass-through charging (charge and discharge simultaneously)
Battery & Specs
This power station uses a LiFePO4 battery, known for safety, longevity, and thermal stability. It’s rated for over 3,000 charge cycles — far more than typical lithium-ion options.
- 299Wh capacity delivers roughly:
- 5–6 phone charges
- 3–4 laptop charges
- 5–7 hours for a small fan
- Battery management system (BMS) includes over-voltage, short-circuit, and temperature protection
Portability & Design
Weighing just over 8 lbs, the Anker 522 is truly grab-and-go friendly. Its compact size and integrated handle make it ideal for:
- Car camping
- Travel trailers
- Emergency blackout kits
The build quality feels premium, with a durable plastic shell and rubberized feet to prevent slipping. A bright LED light bar on the front adds utility for campsite or blackout use.
Charging Options
Anker offers multiple ways to recharge the 522:
- AC Wall Charging: ~4 hours (via USB-C or included adapter)
- USB-C PD Input (max 60W): Dual-use for input/output
- Solar Charging: Compatible with Anker 625 or 625 (100W) panel — 5.5–6.5 hours in full sun
Note: To maximize solar charging, look for a panel with an XT60 output and regulated voltage.
Price & Value
The Anker 522 PowerHouse typically retails for around $249–$279, making it a mid-range option in the 300Wh category. While not the cheapest, it offers better battery chemistry, a premium build, and strong brand support.
- Backed by Anker’s 5-year warranty
- Reliable customer service and app ecosystem
- Great value for those who prioritize portability and battery longevity
[Link to: Best Solar Generators Under $300]
Ideal Use Cases
This compact power station is best suited for:
- Weekend Camping Trips: Power essentials without overpacking
- Emergency Home Backup: Keep your devices and lights running
- Remote Work Setups: Charge laptops and phones off-grid
- Vanlife & Travel: Small enough to stash, powerful enough for everyday needs
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Durable LiFePO4 battery with 3,000+ cycles
- Pure sine wave inverter
- Pass-through charging
- Reliable solar input support
Cons:
- Limited to 300W output — not for heavy appliances
- No app control or Bluetooth features
- USB-C output limited to 60W
Final Verdict
The Anker 522 PowerHouse is a fantastic entry-level solar generator for users who value reliability, compact size, and long battery life. It’s not a heavy-duty backup system, but it does exactly what it promises — clean, quiet power for your essential gear. Ideal for campers, vanlifers, students, or homeowners looking for a dependable backup during short power outages.
FAQs
Can the Anker 522 run a mini fridge or CPAP?
Not reliably. Most mini fridges and CPAPs exceed 300W or require longer runtimes than the 299Wh capacity allows. Consider a 500Wh+ unit instead.
Is the Anker 522 waterproof?
No, it is not weatherproof or waterproof. Keep it protected from rain, splashes, or extreme temperatures.
What solar panel works best with it?
Anker’s 625 (100W) solar panel pairs perfectly, but any panel with XT60 output and 11–28V input range will work.
Last update on 2025-05-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API