Note to reader: Although the Honda 290 by Jackery is currently unavailable for purchase, the Jackery Explorer 300 is a similar-sized system that is available. I have the Jackery 300 and made a review from my tests. You can read this article here: Jackery Explorer 300 Review & Test (Plus Comparisons).
Jackery Honda 290 Overview
Honda licensed the Jackery Honda 290 portable solar generator for camping, RV use, and many other activities through Jackery, a respectable company that specializes in portable solar generators.
It is unknown exactly why Honda decided to pair with Jackery to make the Honda 290 power station, but Honda is known for making great gas-powered generators, so they must have seen something great within the Jackery power stations.
Overall, the Honda 290 by Jackery is lightweight and as portable as it gets for its battery capacity, but its lack of output ports and fast recharging capabilities makes it less versatile than its competition.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Small dimensions – can fit inside standard backpack | No longer available for purchase |
| Extremely simple design | Only four output ports |
| Lightweight for battery size (6.6 lbs) | Low max input (42W) |
Similar: Gas vs Solar Generators – Which Makes More Sense?
What Makes The Honda 290 Unique?
The Honda 290 has the features of a generator that can be compared to one that has much more power, such as the Yeti 400 Lithium or the Suaoki G500.
This is because the Honda 290 has the LCD display, the proper ports, and has the internal battery technology that most generators of this size don’t come close to.
This is one of the only solar generators Licensed by a company (Honda) that also makes gas-powered generators.
Why is this important? Because Honda is putting its name on a piece of equipment. Honda makes very high-quality gas-powered generators and, of course, they make cars too.
However, they have a reputation for making high-quality products in general. This is key when looking for the best small solar generator.
What Can The Honda 290 Generator Power?
The Honda 290 power station is capable of powering the following appliances/devices:
- Smartphones 17+ times
- Tablets 14+ times
- CPAP machine up to 4 hours
- Laptops 4+ times
- Mini fridges 3+ hours
- 32” TV – up to 3.4 hours
The ideal use for this solar generator is for device charging. Since it can be used on the go, it can be a smart tool to have for charging phones, camera batteries, and drone batteries while off the grid.
Its large battery provides more power than a typical power bank, which may also be useful for backup power for large groups when camping or hiking.
I have a similar tool that I use for backup power when I travel, the Sherpa 100AC power bank, and its slim design makes it easy to fit in my backpack.
Who Is The Honda 290 Power Station Ideal For?
Weighing in at 6.6 pounds and being light and compact, this generator is great for nomads who work on the go. It’s also ideal for camping, as you’ll need to charge phones, lights, batteries for cameras and drones, and more depending on how you camp out. Although there are many uses for this generator, it was meant for people who needed portable power.
Whether it’s an emergency or if you’re going off the grid for an adventure, its ability to charge devices up and be carried either by hand or in a backpack makes it easily able to be used for all sorts of purposes.
This solar generator is NOT for people looking to power tools and other high-power appliances for an extended period of time.
The peak wattage is 200 watts and it has 100 watts of continuous power. So if you find yourself in a situation where you need the power to charge or use various electronics that are under or at 100 watts, the Honda Jackery 290 can keep you safe and secure.
It’s important to note that the generator will work in weather ranging from 32 degrees to just over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. It is good practice to measure the temperature of where you’re going before considering using it in very cold or very hot temperatures.
For most airlines, the Honda 290 contains a battery too large for bringing on an airplane. If this is an issue, I recommend the Sherpa 100AC power bank. It has just under 100Wh of battery capacity, which is allowed as a carry-on for most airlines. You can read my review of the Sherpa 100AC in my article found here: The #1 Fastest Charging Solar Power Bank.
What Are The Honda 290 Battery Details?
- Peak Capacity: 292Wh (14.4V, 20.3Ah) 81200 mAh / 3.6V
- Battery Info: Lithium-ion (BAK 2900mAh x 28 cells)
- Lifecycles: ≥500 cycles to 80%
- Shelf-Life: Charge every 3-6 Months
- Management System: BMS, Over Voltage Protection, Short Circuit Protection
The battery inside the Honda 290 is one of its best features. At 292Wh, the battery should be heavier, but Jackery makes some of the lightest batteries in the solar generator industry.
Since it weighs only 6.6 pounds, the Honda 290 has a huge advantage in terms of capacity-to-weight.
Compared to Goal Zero power stations, Jackery models are significantly lighter. You can see this for yourself in my article comparing both companies’ power stations here: Goal Zero vs. Jackery – Battle of the Brands (Cost/Specs/Analysis).
What Is The Best Solar Panel To Use With The Jackery?
There are many solar panels to choose from, but Jackery actually makes their own 50 watt and 100-watt solar panels. However, there are some other recommendations I have, like the HQST 100 Watt Foldable Solar Panel, and the Renogy 100 Watt Solar Suitcase Panel.
It’s important to understand what type of solar panel is best for you. There are expensive ones that have high quality and are durable and last a long time, and there are cheaper ones that you can find that may be less portable but have the same quality.
Conclusion
A small package like the Jackery Honda 290 power station can make a big difference when the power goes out.
Portable power is a necessity these days, and a reliable solar powered generator like the Honda 290 has got your back.
You can use it in an RV, camping, or use it in your home for backup power for your devices.
With the ability to charge multiple devices and some small appliances off the grid, the Honda Jackery 290 will charge your necessities swiftly.
There’s a reason why Honda paired with Jackery to make this product, and it’s because it’s one of the best solar powered generators for its size.
The LCD screen, the portability, and the power output are the best of its class and are essential for accurate and reliable power on the go.
Since this power station is no longer available, the Jackery 300 is an alternative system you can still find.
You can check out my review and testing results of the Jackery Explorer 300, which has additional ports and better specs than the Honda 290: Jackery Explorer 300 Review & Test (Plus Comparisons).