NOTE: Cutting Edge Power is now RevoPower. Their website has changed to https://revopower.us/.
Looking for a solar generator that’s made in the USA and built for long-term use? In this review, I’ll break down my hands-on experience testing the Cutting Edge Power 500W Solar Generator — a modular power station built in Houston, Texas.
Unlike typical plug-and-play models from brands like Jackery or Goal Zero, this system is designed for expandability, customization, and durability.
Cutting Edge Power 500W Solar Generator: Key Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Inverter | 500W Pure Sine Wave |
| Battery Type | User-Selectable: LiFePO4, AGM, or Lead-Acid |
| Solar Input | Up to 450W (PWM Charge Controller) |
| Expandability | Customizable battery size and add-ons |
| Weight | Varies based on battery choice |
| Made In | USA (Assembled in Houston, TX) |
What Makes This Power Station Unique?
1. Made in the USA
Cutting Edge Power assembles its solar generators in Houston, Texas. They source as many USA-made parts as possible — a rare feature in the solar generator industry.
2. Expandable & Customizable
This system lets you:
- Use nearly any 12V battery chemistry (LiFePO4 recommended)
- Swap out or upgrade batteries over time
- Add custom ports like USB-C PD
- Upgrade to MPPT charge controllers with Bluetooth monitoring
Hands-On Testing: Setup & Battery Installation
Installation was straightforward but more hands-on than typical portable power stations. Connecting the battery involved attaching positive and negative terminals (with a small spark during connection — expected).
The unit displays real-time battery voltage, making it easy to monitor charge levels.
USB Charging Test Results
| Port Type | Wattage Output |
|---|---|
| Charge Controller USB | 5W output (basic charging) |
| Inverter USB Ports | 12W output per port (faster charging) |
Both USB ports worked as advertised, and I successfully charged my Sherpa power bank and smartphone.
AC Output Performance
I tested the inverter by charging two power stations:
Jackery Explorer 1000
- Input: ~144W
- Smooth operation
- Inverter fans kicked in during extended use (slightly louder than typical units)
EcoFlow River Max
- Input peaked at 312W
- System handled high wattage until battery voltage sag caused a shutdown (due to my small 288Wh battery)
- With a larger battery, the inverter should handle closer to 500W consistently
Solar Charging Test (180W Panel)
Using a 180W BougeRV solar panel, I connected to the PWM charge controller and saw:
- Peak Input: ~25–30W (cloudy conditions)
- Charging Voltage: 14.2V
- Battery Voltage Recovery: From 12.7V to 13.0V+
Note: Cutting Edge Power offers MPPT charge controllers for faster and more efficient solar charging if desired.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Expandable battery system
- Customizable ports and charge controllers
- Replaceable batteries extend product lifespan
- Strong inverter performance (quiet at low loads)
Cons
- Setup requires more technical knowledge (not fully plug-and-play)
- Louder inverter fans at higher loads
- Small stock battery limits performance (bigger battery recommended)
- LCD screen stays on constantly (minor power draw)
Why Choose This Over Jackery or Goal Zero?
| Feature | Cutting Edge Power 500W | Jackery Explorer 500 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Expandability | Yes | No |
| Replaceable Battery | Yes | No |
| Solar Input Capacity | Up to 450W | Up to 100W |
| Customizable Ports | Yes | No |
| Made in USA | Yes | No |
This system is ideal for those who want to:
- Build a solar generator that grows with their needs
- Use larger batteries for extended runtime
- Repair or upgrade components over time
- Support USA-made products
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy This?
The Cutting Edge Power 500W Solar Generator is perfect for:
- DIY solar enthusiasts
- Off-grid users needing long-term durability
- People wanting USA-assembled products
- Anyone frustrated with non-expandable solar generators
If ease-of-use is your top priority, a Jackery or Goal Zero might be a better fit. But if you want a long-lasting, customizable power solution — Cutting Edge Power is worth serious consideration.
Where to Buy
Learn more at RevoPower’s Official Website.
They also offer larger systems like the 2000W solar generator and advanced options like split-phase 240V systems for home backup power.