Comparing Goal Zero’s Nomad 7, Nomad 7 Plus, & Nomad 10

Here I compare three small solar charger models offered by Goal Zero – the Nomad 7 (released in 2011), Nomad 7 Plus (released in 2016), and the Nomad 10 (released in 2020).

Power stations comparedWinnerWhat makes it better?Check price
Nomad 7 vs. Nomad 7 PlusNomad 7 Plus1. Has a kickstand
2. Higher max output
Amazon
Nomad 7 vs. Nomad 10Nomad 101. Has a kickstand
2. Higher output
Amazon
Nomad 7 Plus vs. Nomad 10Nomad 101. Slightly higher output
2. Has “holster” for Flip power banks
Amazon
This table shows the three winning Goal Zero portable solar chargers and why they were selected.

Goal Zero Nomad 7 vs 7 Plus – What’s the Difference?

The Goal Zero Nomad 7 Plus solar panel is the better option compared to the Nomad 7 due to the following features:

  • Kickstand – The Nomad 7 Plus has a kickstand, whereas the Nomad 7 does not
  • More USB power – The Nomad 7 Plus can emit 7W of power when the Nomad 7 has a 5W maximum
Solar PanelNomad 7Nomad 7 Plus
Cell TypeMonocrystallineMonocrystalline
Charge Speed with Switch 10 Core4-6 hours4-6 hours
Weight16.2 oz12.5 oz (w/o kickstand); 17 oz (w/ kickstand)
Dimensions (Open)9 x 1.5 x 17 in13 x 8.75 x 0.5 in
Dimensions (Closed)9 x 1.5 x 6.5 in6.5 x 8.75 x 0.75 in
Ports1x USB-A Port: 5V, up to 1A (5W max)
1x Mini Solar Port (2.5mm – Guide 10 charge port): 6.5V, up to 1.1A (7W max)
1x Solar Port (8mm): 15V, up to 0.3A (5W max)
1x Chaining Port (for chaining multiple Nomad 7’s together)
1x USB-A port: 5V, up to 1.4A (7W max)
1x Mini Solar Port (2.5mm – Guide 10 charge port): 8-9V, up to 0.8A (7W max)
SourceNomad 7 manualNomad 7 Plus manual
This table shows the basic specs and features of the Nomad 7 and Nomad 7 Plus solar panels.

Quick Review of the Nomad 7 Solar Panel

The purpose of the Nomad 7 is to charge small devices like headlamps, smartphones, and Goal Zero power banks while on the go.

Goal Zero Nomad 7 Solar Panel
Goal Zero Nomad 7

Its hanging loops surrounding the panels allow it to be used on your backpack or any other area that best suits solar charging outdoors.

Unlike several small portable solar panels currently on the market, the Nomad 7 has multiple output options in addition to its single USB-A port.

For increased solar power, you can chain multiple Nomad 7 panels together.

This may be useful if you need to charge a small solar generator or large power bank and need more power from the panels to charge them faster.

Here’s what is included in the box:

  • The Nomad 7 solar panel
  • One 12V adapter

Goal Zero Nomad 7 Plus – Overview

For optimum angle placement, the Nomad 7 Plus has a detachable kickstand with natural shade for charging devices and a vented pocket intended for temperature regulation.

Goal Zero Nomad 7 Plus Solar Panel Recharger, Nomad 7 Plus
Goal Zero Nomad 7 Plus

The panel also features an auto restart.

The 7 Plus can track power flow history and knows the difference between fully charged devices and those that disconnect due to environmental factors like lack of sunlight and shadows.

When the disconnection is due to environmental factors, it automatically reconnects the charging device without any additional work.

Here’s what’s included in the box:

  • One Nomad 7 Plus solar panel
  • Removable kickstand / Zippered Pouch

Nomad 7 vs 7 Plus – Key Features Overview

There are several factors to consider before purchasing a solar panel like the ones I am writing about today.

As basic as they look, there are certain technical specifications and features that you should comprehend.

For instance, you should know what type of panel you plan to get (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, or thin-film).

Solar panels differ in size, so one of the essential factors to consider is the weight and compactness of the panel.

Since small portable solar panels are usually used outdoors and while on the go, their weight and dimensions are essential.

Aside from these factors, there are other key features to look into. Here are some of the significant ones.

  • Cell Type
  • Charge Speed
  • Durability
  • Weight and Portability
  • Port(s)
  • Cost

Cell Type of the Nomad 7 & 7 Plus

Angled solar array

There are three different types of PV cells that are widely available on the market:

  • Monocrystalline
  • Polycrystalline
  • Thin-film

Monocrystalline panels have an impressively high level of efficiency (typically over 20%), and they don’t demand lots of space, unlike other types due to their efficiency level.

Polycrystalline solar panels usually cost less than monocrystalline because they’re slightly less efficient. Thin-film panels tend to be much cheaper than crystalline panels.

The Nomad 7 and Nomad 7 Plus are built with monocrystalline panels.

Verdict

Both the Nomad 7 and 7 Plus use the same solar panel cell type, making this section a tie.

Charging Speeds

Nomad 7 with Venture 30 outside
This is my Nomad 7 with the Venture 30 power bank. Goal Zero used to sell these two products together in a kit.

In this section, we are considering the performance of solar panels under standard conditions.

Please note that the charge speed may change when subject to different weather conditions.

The charge times when using this solar panel vary depending on the kind of charger in use.

However, since these panels are rated at the same wattage, they have the same charging times with the following Goal Zero power banks:

  • Switch 10: 4-6 hours
  • Flip 10: 2.5-5 hours
  • Guide 10 Plus: 3-6 hours
  • Flip 20: 5-10 hours
  • Venture 30: 8-16 hours

Verdict

Both the Nomad 7 and the Nomad 7 Plus have similar charge times, however, the Nomad 7 Plus’ USB port gets up to 7W of power while the Nomad 7 gets a maximum of 5W from the same port.

Overall, the Nomad 7 Plus wins this category by a slim margin.

Similar: Portable Power Banks – What To Look For Before Purchasing

Weight & Dimensions of the Nomad 7 and 7 Plus

Portable solar panels should be lightweight and easy to transport.

Additionally, most portable solar panels are foldable due to their relatively large surface areas. These Goal Zero panels are small to begin with yet they still fold once over for extra storage.

Nomad 7:

  • Weight: 16.2 oz
  • Dimensions (folded): 9 x 1.5 x 6.5 in
  • Dimensions (unfolded): 9 x 1.5 x 17 in

Nomad 7 Plus:

  • Weight: 12.5 oz (w/o kickstand); 17 oz (w/ kickstand)
  • Dimensions (folded): 6.5 x 8.75 x 0.75 in
  • Dimensions (unfolded): 13 x 8.75 x 0.5 in

Verdict

Both the Nomad 7 and the Nomad 7 Plus are lightweight and can be used for outdoor activities.

However, if you’re not using its kickstand, the Nomad 7 Plus is a few ounces lighter than the Nomad 7.

The weight difference may be insignificant since it’s only approximately a 4 oz difference. But if you’re using one of these on a long backpacking trip, every ounce matters.

Similar: What Size Portable Solar Panel Do You Need? (Detailed Overview)

Nomad 7 vs 7 Plus – Available Ports

Nomad 7 ports diagram from manual
Nomad 7 ports diagram
Nomad 7 Plus ports diagram
Nomad 7 Plus ports & features diagram
PortsNomad 7Nomad 7 Plus
USB-A5W max (5V, 1A), regulated7W max (5V, 1.4A)
Solar Port (8mm)5W max (15V, 0.3A), regulatedN/A
Mini Solar Port (2.5mm)7W max (6.5V, 1.1A)7W max (8-9V, 0.8A)
Chaining inputCan chain up to four Nomad 7’s togetherN/A
SourceNomad 7 webpage (Goal Zero)Nomad 7 Plus webpage (Goal Zero)
The Nomad 7 has two more ports than the Nomad 7 Plus, however, the Nomad 7 Plus has a slightly more powerful USB-A port.

The Nomad 7 solar panel has three total output ports while the Nomad 7 Plus has only two ports.

Regardless of these differences, both panels are simply too small (in most cases) to be able to charge more than one device at a time.

This is especially true when the sunlight is inconsistent – either from cloud cover or from obstructions (ex: hiking with the panel on your backpack and having trees obstruct sunlight).

Verdict

In terms of number, the Nomad 7 has more ports than the Nomad 7 Plus.

However, the Nomad 7 Plus has a more powerful USB-A port, which is important because the USB is probably going to be the most-used output for recharging.

This section is a draw because one may prefer the older Nomad 7 or vice versa depending on what ports they’re using with the solar charger.

Price Level

Determining the value of a portable solar panel depends on all of its technical specifications and how well they fit your needs.

Goal Zero products as a whole tend to be above average, and the Nomad panels are no exception.

For example, this FlexSolar 10W panel costs about $25 on Amazon.

That’s one-fifth the price of the Nomad 7 Plus! And this panel is not just an exception.

Goal Zero Nomad 7 vs 7 Plus cover image

I scrolled briefly on Amazon before finding this SunJack 15W solar panel/charger for under $60, which is just under half the price of the Nomad 7 Plus.

Unfortunately, both the Nomad 7 and 7 Plus are no longer sold by Goal Zero due to new and improved Nomad models taking over as successors (Nomad 5, 10, and 20).

However, the 7 Plus is still available on Amazon for $125.

You can find several used models online, and surprisingly, the Nomad 7 Plus seems to be within a similar price range as the Nomad 7 on eBay.

Verdict

You’d be better off with the 7 Plus since it’s both a newer model and costs about the same price as the standard version for used models.

Conclusion – Which Panel Is the Better Overall Option?

Overall, the weight savings, updated features, and the simple fact that the Nomad 7 Plus is the second generation of the Nomad 7 make it the clear winner in this comparison.


Goal Zero Nomad 7 vs Nomad 10 – Which Is the Most Practical?

Nomad 7 and Nomad 10 solar panel
Nomad 7 (left), Nomad 10 (right)

Goal Zero’s portable solar chargers may look pretty similar to each other, but their features can vary greatly.

Using my experience with both my Nomad 7 and Nomad 10 panels, I’ve come to a conclusion on which one is better and why.

The Goal Zero Nomad 10 is more practical than the Nomad 7 because it has a higher USB-A power output and comes with an adjustable kickstand. From their USB-A outputs, the Nomad 10 has 7.5W of power, while the Nomad 7 outputs 5W maximum.

Solar PanelNomad 7Nomad 10
Cell TypeMonocrystallineMonocrystalline
Charge Speed With Venture 308-16 hours4.5-9 hours
Weight16.2 oz17.9 oz
Dimensions (Open)9 x 1.5 x 17 in9.5 x 14.5 x 0.75 in
Dimensions (Closed)9 x 1.5 x 6.5 in9.5 x 7.2 x 1.25 in
Ports1x USB-A Port: 5V, up to 1A (5W max)
1x Mini Solar Port (2.5mm – Guide 10 charge port): 6.5V, up to 1.1A (7W max)
1x Solar Port (8mm): 15V, up to 0.3A (5W max)
1x Chaining Port (for chaining multiple Nomad 7’s together)
1x USB-A Port: 5V, up to 1.5A (7.5W max)
SourceNomad 7 manualNomad 10 manual
This table shows the specs of both the Nomad 7 and Nomad 7 solar chargers.

As you can see with the Venture 30 recharge times, the Nomad 10 will be able to significantly reduce recharge times for power banks as compared to the Nomad 7.

However, the Nomad 7 can output up to 7W from its 2.5mm port. This port is used specifically for use with the Guide 10 Plus recharger, which is a small power bank.

How to Use the Goal Zero Nomad 7

Nomad 7 opened
Nomad 7

To use the Nomad 7 properly, utilize the hanging loops on the ends of the Nomad 7 and hang it in an area that will get optimal sunlight. Then, use one of its three output ports to connect to your devices or power banks.

The hanging loops sometimes aren’t needed to capture sunlight to charge your devices.

Since the Nomad 7 doesn’t come with a kickstand, you will need to tilt it against a solid surface to get a good position towards the sun.

You can use the USB-A output on the panel to connect to a device of your choice.

The Guide 10 cable will connect specifically to the Guide 10 recharger (power bank), and the 8mm output will connect to several Goal Zero devices including the Sherpa 100AC and portable power stations.

How to Use the Goal Zero Nomad 10

Nomad 10 opened
Nomad 10

The best way to use the Nomad 10 is to use its kickstand to tilt the panel at an angle perpendicular to the sun. Then, connect your device or power bank to the USB-A output port on the back of the panel to begin the charging process.

The Nomad 10 holds the same purpose as the Nomad 7 but brings with it more power.

In terms of design, the Nomad 10 comes with a built-in kickstand that allows proper positioning of the panel for maximum collection of sunlight for effective charging.

It is best to connect a power bank to the Nomad 10 because it will continue to charge even in low-light conditions.

Sometimes smartphones and other devices will not charge when the panel is in low-light conditions, causing a disrupted charge.

However, the Nomad 10 has an auto-restart function that detects when a device stops accepting a charge due to a low power output from the panel.

It then continues to power the device when the sun conditions improve.

Solar Panel Cell Type – Nomad 7 vs Nomad 10

Nomad 7 and Nomad 10 opened
Both the Nomad 7 and Nomad 10 have the same monocrystalline cells, but they have different finishes protecting the panel.

There are three fundamental cell types, which include monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film.

The main two cell types used with solar panels are monocrystalline and polycrystalline.

Monocrystalline has a slight advantage because it is overall more efficient than polycrystalline panels.

The Nomad 7 and Nomad 10 are made up of monocrystalline cells.

Verdict: This section is a draw, as both the Nomad 7 and 10 are composed of monocrystalline cells.

Charging Speeds of the Nomad 7 & Nomad 10

Sherpa 100AC Venture 30 Flip 36
Power banks to use with solar chargers: (from left to right) Sherpa 100AC, Venture 30, Flip 36

The charge speed of your solar panels is dependent on several factors, including:

  • Weather conditions
  • Position of the panel
  • Length of cables connected from the solar panel to your device/battery

Below I have the estimated charging times for different Goal Zero power banks when using these solar chargers.

Power BanksNomad 7 Charging Times
Switch 104-6 hours
Flip 102.5-5 hours
Guide 10 Plus3-6 hours
Flip 205-10 hours
Venture 308-16 hours
Charging times for various Goal Zero power banks when using the Nomad 7.
Power BanksNomad 10 Charging Times
Flip 122.5-5 hours
Flip 244-8 hours
Flip 366-12 hours
Venture 356-12 hours
Venture 7511-22 hours
Sherpa 100PD15-30 hours
Charging times for various Goal Zero power banks when using the Nomad 10.

Verdict: Both the Nomad 7 and 10 have reasonable charge times when paired with Goal Zero rechargers.

However, with the Nomad 10 having an overall higher output, it wins this category.

Nomad 7 vs Nomad 10 – Which Is More Durable Over Time?

Goal Zero Nomad 7 closed up
This is what the Nomad 7 looks like when it’s folded up.

Since both the Nomad 7 and 10 were built with outdoor use in mind, the materials used with the panels are lightweight and tough.

The Nomad 10’s frame is more solid than the Nomad 7. However, the Nomad 7’s frame still has a sturdy construction but is made of softer padding material.

The Nomad 10’s frame and binding (the folding part of the panel) are built seamlessly with its two solar panels.

The Nomad 7’s frame and binding are seamless on the outside but on the inside of the system (where the panels are), both the frame and binding are stitched to the back portion of the panel.

The Nomad 10 is very hard throughout its entire design. Even the binding that connects the two solar panels on the Nomad 10 is tough.

This is not a common attribute to find in small portable solar panels as most of their binding materials are either loose or soft.

The Nomad 10’s solar panels are built into its sturdy frame. The material that covers the panels themselves is a thin but very durable material.

The Nomad 7 panels are surrounded by a slightly thicker frame, but the materials used are softer than the Nomad 10. Covering the Nomad 7 panels is clear plastic.

Check out my unboxing video of the Nomad 10 for a closer look at the construction of the panel:

Video of my unboxing of the Nomad 10.

Verdict

The Nomad 10 is more durable than the Nomad 7 because the materials are harder on the back of the panel.

Since the panels on the Nomad 10 are built seamlessly into its hard frame, this gives the panels themselves a buffer of protection that is not found in the Nomad 7’s setup.

This is because the Nomad 7’s panels are stitched into its frame.

Although the stitching is very secure, the stitches are exposed and have the possibility of being cut or torn when used in the wilderness.

Port Options in the Nomad 7 & Nomad 10

Nomad 7 ports
Nomad 7 ports (from left to right): 2.5mm, USB-A, 8mm.

The available ports in a solar panel play an important role in directly charging mobile phones and other USB devices.

The Nomad 7 solar panel comes with a USB-A port, 8mm solar port, and a 2.5mm port specifically for the Guide 10 power bank from Goal Zero.

The 8mm port is Goal Zero’s proprietary port and is meant to charge power banks and portable power stations.

There is also a chaining port that allows you to connect multiple Nomad 7 panels together for increased power.

How to Chain the Goal Zero Nomad 7

Chaining Input for Nomad 7

To chain two Nomad 7’s together, use the Guide 10 output cable on the back of one of the panels and connect it to the “Chain Input” on the second panel. You can repeat this process with up to four Nomad 7’s total.

If you’re thinking about chaining more than two Nomad 7’s together, I recommend getting a larger Nomad panel like the Nomad 20 or Nomad 28 Plus.

This will be easier to use when off the grid since you don’t need to go through the process of chaining multiple panels together.

As for the Nomad 10’s output, it has a single USB-A port located behind the panel, close to the Flip charging dock.

Nomad 10 USB-A port
Nomad 10 USB-A port

Verdict

The Nomad 7 has more ports compared to the Nomad 10. However, this feature’s importance depends on its application, and it may not matter to several users.

Although the Nomad 7’s additional ports are a convenient feature to have for some, the only port that is universal amongst all users is its USB-A port.

Not everyone wants to have a Goal Zero power bank or solar generator to use with the Nomad 7.

And if you fall under this group of people, then the additional ports are useless.

Are the Nomad 7 or Nomad 10 Waterproof?

Solar panels are commonly used outdoors for different activities, making it essential for them to be rugged and withstand some environmental factors.

The Nomad 7 and Nomad 10 are weather-resistant, signifying that they’re less likely to be harmed when exposed to rain or snow.

However, please ensure that you do not expose any output ports to rain or snow. The ports are not waterproof.

Since the ports on both panels are located on the back of the panels, you can maneuver them in a way to be void of rain/snow as the panels will be able to act as an umbrella over the outputs.

Verdict

Even though Goal Zero solar panels are themselves waterproof, the output/chaining ports cannot be exposed to water. Due to this, there is no winner in this category.

It’s crucial to take caution when using these solar panels in the rain. Avoiding using them in the rain as a whole is a good idea unless you desperately need a charge.

If that is the case, then take measures to conceal the ports of the solar panel from the rain/snow.

Which Is More Portable Between the Nomad 7 & 10?

The Nomad 7 and 10 are lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport in a backpack for most outdoor adventures.

Nomad 7 Weight & Dimensions

  • Weight: 16.2 oz
  • Dimensions (folded): 9 x 1.5 x 6.5 in
  • Dimensions (unfolded): 9 x 1.5 x 17 in

Nomad 10 Weight & Dimensions

  • Weight: 1.12 lbs
  • Dimensions (folded): 9.5 x 7.2 x 1.25 in
  • Dimensions (unfolded): 9.5 x 14.5 x 0.75 in

Verdict

Both the Nomad 7 and Nomad 10 are easily portable. However, the Nomad 7 is just two ounces lighter than the Nomad 10, winning this category.

The reason that these two panels are so similar in weight yet unequal in output power is due to the Nomad 7 having a mesh zipper pouch and multiple outputs as opposed to the Nomad 10 having only one output and no pouch.

Cost of the Goal Zero Nomad 7 vs Nomad 10

The Nomad 7 costs $59.95 on Goal Zero’s website. However, since this panel is no longer available from Goal Zero, the current price point is unclear.

From my research, I found only one new Nomad 7 that’s going for $70 on mercari.com. However, there are several used models available on eBay, ranging from $40 to over $100!

It’s clear that the Nomad 7 is not worth it, new or used.

The Nomad 10 costs $99.95 (Amazon affiliate link) on Goal Zero’s website and Amazon.

On another note, these solar panels are costly compared to similar models.

If you navigate Amazon, you’ll find solar panels for less than half of the price of both the Nomad 7 and Nomad 10.

The reason for this (in my opinion) has to do with two factors: brand dominance and high quality.

Goal Zero is the dominant brand in the “portable power” industry.

Hence, they can charge more money for a product because most people know the brand as a good brand. In addition, Goal Zero is known for its reliability and high-quality products.

Although Goal Zero’s Nomad 7 and 10 are both great products, they do not have the best value because they cost twice as much as other brands’ similar panels.

Verdict

The price of the Goal Zero Nomad 7 is unclear, as it is no longer sold on Goal Zero’s website.

Finding a new one would be a difficult task, and finding a used model may not be worth your time.

This makes the Nomad 10 a more cost-effective option since it’s readily available.

Similar: Do Solar Powered Generators Have Enough Power For The Price?

Goal Zero’s Customer Support Team

Goal Zero is known to have great customer service that readily provides help to buyers with questions. They also ensure that all complaints are addressed appropriately.

My personal experience with Goal Zero’s support team supports this claim.

My Yeti 200X malfunctioned and I was able to talk to the support staff to address the issue and get a Sherpa 100AC power bank in exchange for the damaged 200X.

You can contact Goal Zero via telephone at 1-888-794-6250, their support email, or social channels.

There are also “Q&A” sections at the bottom of each of their product listings on their website, where their support team answers questions regularly.

Unique Features in the Nomad 7 and Nomad 10

Apart from the main features to look out for in every solar panel (power output, size, weight, etc.), there are additional unique features found in the Nomad 7 and 10.

The following features are important to know as they play a key role in how you use each one.

Simultaneous Charging (Nomad 7)

Simultaneous charging involves the use of two different ports at the same time to charge different devices.

Impressively, you can use all three port options simultaneously with the Nomad 7.

However, the solar panel will split the incoming solar power between the ports to charge the connected devices at the same time. Note that some devices may not be compatible with this feature.

Although this is a nice feature to have, the Nomad 7’s power output is not high enough to charge multiple devices fast.

The Nomad 10 on the other hand has only one port.

Auto-Restart (Nomad 10)

When there’s a low-light scenario, some devices stop charging automatically from the solar panel due to low current input.

Impressively, the Nomad 10 has an auto-restart feature that differentiates between a fully charged device and one that disconnects due to varying sunlight conditions. As a result, the Nomad 10 auto-restarts its charging process if the phone or device disconnects from varying sunlight.

The auto-restart feature doesn’t seem to be present in the Nomad 7 as it is not found in its user manual or product listing page.

Adjustable Kickstand (Nomad 10)

Nomad 10 kickstand
Nomad 10 kickstand

The Nomad 10 has an adjustable kickstand that clicks into place at various angles to ensure that the panel is appropriately placed in position.

Due to this feature, the Nomad 10 can collect optimal sunlight, leading to a more effective charging experience.

Mesh Pouch (Nomad 7)

Nomad 7 pouch
Nomad 7 zippered pouch

The Nomad 7 has a mesh zipper pouch on its backside which houses the charging cables that are connected to the panels.

The pouch is big enough to store other items like carabiners or zip ties to hang the panel, or to store any other accessories that might be better suited for the pouch.

The Nomad 10 does not have a pouch to store any items, but it does have a clip-on charging dock for Goal Zero’s Flip series of rechargers.

Flip Recharger Dock (Nomad 10)

Nomad 10 with Flip 36 attached
Nomad 10 with Flip 36 attached

The Nomad 10 has a dock underneath the USB-A output on the back of the panel.

With this dock, you can use a Flip recharger of any size to clip into the dock for an easy charging process.

The Flip power banks are simple USB-A batteries. Using these power banks is the ideal option compared to charging your phone or another device directly from the panel.

This is because the batteries will be able to charge more consistently with changing weather/sun conditions.

Hanging Loops (Nomad 7 and Nomad 10)

The Nomad 7 has nine hanging loops that are attached to the exterior of the solar panel.

These loops let you hang the solar panel in whatever setup you deem fit to charge your devices/batteries.

The Nomad 10 has four hanging loops that are built into the frame of the system. There is one loop on each corner of the panel.

Chainability (Nomad 7)

Using the chaining port on the Nomad 7, you can chain up to four Nomad 7 panels together for an increased charging speed.

This comes in handy if you need more power to charge bigger devices.

Conclusion

Overall, the Nomad 10 is the winner of this comparison.

It accepts a higher solar input, is about the same weight, and is more durable than the Nomad 7.

Goal Zero Nomad 7 vs 10 cover image

It also has a kickstand to angle the panel towards the sun, whereas the Nomad 7 does not.

This is an important feature to have because it will maximize the amount of output power that the panel is capable of outputting.

At a similar price point to the Nomad 7 currently, it makes more sense to get the Nomad 10 because it will simply be more reliable to charge devices.

Since the Nomad 7 can only output a maximum of five watts of power from its USB-A output, this may not be enough power to charge a smartphone directly from the panel.

You may need to get a power bank to use with the panel to then connect to your phone to get a consistent charge rate.

Find the Nomad 10 solar panel here on Amazon. This is an affiliate link, where I make a small commission on every sale.


Nomad 7 Plus vs. Nomad 10 – Which Is Better?

The Nomad 10 is better than the Nomad 7 Plus because it has a slightly higher maximum USB-A output (7.5W vs 7W).

The Nomad 7 Plus has a second output port and a storage pouch, both of which aren’t featured on the Nomad 10.

However, the Nomad 10 can be easily used with Goal Zero’s Flip-series power bank. It has a plastic piece on its rear that clips the power bank in place to charge up without the need for a storage pouch.

Availability – Nomad 7 Plus vs. 10

The Nomad 7 Plus is available on Amazon but is currently unavailable on Goal Zero’s website.

Since the Nomad 7 Plus came out a few years earlier than the Nomad 10, it may be getting phased out by Goal Zero.

Both the Nomad 5, 10, and 20 are the latest versions offered by the company and have similar designs but varying power outputs.

The Nomad 10 is available on both Amazon and Goal Zero’s site.

Other Nomad Solar Chargers/Panels from Goal Zero

Goal Zero has released multiple Nomad solar panels over the years, but the current models available on their website are the Nomad 5, 10, and 20.

But the company has several other previous releases including the:

  • Nomad 13
  • Nomad 14
  • Nomad 20 (other version vs. current)
  • Nomad 28

If you’re looking for the right portable solar panel size, you can check out my list of top models from 14-100W here.


Sources

  1. Goal Zero – User guide library: https://www.goalzero.com/pages/user-guides
  2. Goal Zero – Nomad 7 product page: https://www.goalzero.com/products/nomad-7-solar-panel
  3. Goal Zero – Nomad 7 Plus product page: https://www.goalzero.com/products/nomad-7-plus-solar-panel
  4. Goal Zero – Nomad 10 product page: https://www.goalzero.com/products/nomad-10-solar-panel
  5. Gear Junkie – Nomad 7 Plus release date: https://gearjunkie.com/technology/goal-zero-nomad-7-solar-panel-review
  6. T3 – Nomad 10 release date: https://www.t3.com/reviews/goal-zero-nomad-20-solar-charger
  7. Goal Zero – Nomad 7 release date: https://www.goalzero.com/pages/history

Max Peters

Hi! I'm Max and I am passionate about off-grid solar technology and adventure! I'm using my knowledge of solar generators, solar panels, and everything in between to provide you with the best tools to keep you powered while off the grid. Read more about me here: About Max Peters."

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