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Jackery Explorer 500

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Jackery Explorer 500

E500

Newer LFP camping units outclass it at this price.

Jackery's legacy 500W NMC camping backup; superseded by Explorer 300 Plus and River 2 Max.

Released 2020All Jackery reviews

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30
Weak · /100
VerdictBetter alternatives available
Capacity518 Wh
Output500 W
Weight13.3 lb
Check price on Amazon

Best for

Catalog legacy camping backup; still serviceable for casual camping

Avoid if

You need >500W inverter or want LFP

What It Can Run

  • Lights, laptops, phones
  • Camping small fridge briefly

Runtimes assume inverter efficiency, depth of discharge and a duty cycle for compressor appliances. See the runtime calculator for exact estimates.

Performance Breakdown

Usable capacity
5
Inverter output
9
Charge speed
27
Solar input
8
Battery longevity
5
Portability
95
Overall value
61
Warranty
20
Ports & expandability
40

By Use Case

One product ranks differently for each scenario — see where this one fits.

Home Backup
11
Camping
50
RV Travel
25
Solar Use
24

Full Specifications

Battery capacity518 Wh
Usable capacity430 Wh
ChemistryNMC
Cycle life (80%)800 cycles
Inverter output500 W
Surge output1000 W
Wall recharge7.5 hr
Solar max input100 W
AC outlets3
USB-C ports1
USB-A ports2
12V carport1
DC outputs1
Weight13.3 lb
Dimensions11.8 x 7.1 x 9.2
ExpandableNo
UPS functionNo
App controlNo
Warranty2 yr
Release year2020

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Lightweight 13.3 lb
  • Good brand reputation
  • Carry handle design

Cons

  • Slow wall charge
  • Not LiFePO4
  • No app
  • Older vs newer Jackery

Major weaknesses: Older NMC chemistry (800 cycles) · Slow 7.5 hr wall charge · 2-yr warranty · No app.

Final Recommendation

Better alternatives available

Newer LFP camping units outclass it at this price.