How to Choose the Best 4×4 Solar Panel

According to most people, the perfect way to live your life is to earn, make assets, and spend that money traveling worldwide and making discoveries. However, frequent travelers can tell how rare it is to find a beautiful hotel with all the facilities you need in a remote area. If you are a true mountain lover, you must go beyond a comfortable lifestyle to enjoy breathtaking views at a distant place.

Moreover, as technology is advancing, much equipment has been designed to provide travelers comfort during their journeys and camping. One of these is solar panels. As you know, a solar panel does not require wiring and time to get installed. It utilizes solar energy and converts it to produce electricity. With a good quality solar panel, you won’t run out of a phone, laptop, tablet, or chargeable torch battery no matter where you stay.

Looking at how difficult folks find it to get the best solar panel available in the market, we have created our list of 4×4 solar panels that can accompany you during your journey to self-discovery. In this article, we will discuss the features of each solar panel in detail. Read this article before you leave for your next destination.

1. Renogy 100 Watt Eclipse Monocrystalline Solar Panel – Best Overall

Rating: 4.6/5

  • 100 watt monocrystalline
  • Waterproof
  • Portable, efficient panels

Make your traveling convenient with Renogy 100 watt eclipse monocrystalline. No other company works as hard as Renogy to provide quality to their customers through products. Renogy 100 watt eclipse monocrystalline solar panel is compatible with sealed, lithium, jet, and flooded batteries. The low-light environment capability in Renogy takes away your stress if the sun is not doing its job correctly.

The alligator clips are provided with Renogy 100 watt eclipse monocrystalline for easy connection. The protective casing makes it durable and a loyal friend to its owner. This remarkable solar cell is manufactured in Germany. This solar system’s low voltage system makes sure you don’t come across any accidents during your traveling by avoiding electric shock hazards.

It is all set to accompany you on harrowing, unexpected journeys. The adjustable, corrosion-resistant aluminum stand will protect it against unwanted weather conditions. The heavy-duty handle and latches are also provided, making it a durable, powerful solar panel. Its optimum operation current is -5.67A. The charge controller with an LCD screen display and adjustable parameter settings gives complete control to its owner. The negative-ground charge controller makes it compatible with RV, Boat, etc.

The prominent feature in Renogy 100 watt eclipse monocrystalline solar panel is that it doesn’t demand pampering and maintenance. It can protect itself against overcharging and fire risk through a 20A built-in 5 stage solar charge controller. This solar panel provides you 25-year power output with five year-95% efficiency rate, 10 year-90% efficiency rate, 25 year-80% efficiency rate, and 3-year workmanship and material. This 12-volt eclipse solar suitcase is the ultimate solution for travelers with just 20.3 lb weight.

The package includes two 50 watt high-quality monocrystalline solar panels, one Amp voyager charge controller along with an efficient LCD for power regulation, 10 feet tray cable with alligator clips for easy connections, and a protective suitcase for easy and safe mobility. The solar panel can bear up to -40 F to 140 degrees F temperature without getting damaged.

2. Renogy 100W 12V Monocrystalline Off Grid Portable Solar Panel – Best 12V panel

Rating: 4.7/5 

  • 100 watt 12V monocrystalline
  • Foldable 2 pc 50W solar panel
  • Suitcase for save portability

Renogy is a renowned name in solar panels. Its quality and durability is the highlight of its products. If you’re looking for a long-term investment with a high ROI, go with a Renogy 100W 12V monocrystalline off-grid portable solar panel. It is capable of working efficiently in low-light environments, so you don’t get disturbed due to power interruption.

The low maintenance cost gives you the freedom to enjoy an uninterrupted power supply. This solar panel is highly durable and reliable. The adjustable corrosion-resistant aluminum stand and heavy-duty handle with latches are provided for longevity. Its lightweight and protective case provide ease to carry it around. The Renogy 100 watt monocrystalline off-grid foldable solar panel is 4*27*1.5 when open and 20*27*3 inches when closed.

This solar panel gives you the freedom to add panels to the system according to the space available to you. Its maximum operation current (Imp) is 5.56A. The ideal 500 watt output hours per day are dependent upon sunlight available. It can work under -40 F to 185 simply amazing F temperature.

The solar cells in Renogy 100 watt portable solar panels perform excellently in a weak light environment and produce tremendous energy over the long run. The packaging includes Renogy 100 watt monocrystalline foldable solar suitcase.

3. Jackery SolarSaga Portable 100W Solar Panel – Best Eco-friendly

Rating: 4.8/5 

  • A foldable solar cell (US)
  • Solar charger with USB output
  • Eco-friendly clear energy

Jackery solarSaga 100 watts portable solar panel is the ultimate solution to power issues during traveling. This high-quality solar panel is the construction of Jackery, founded in California in 2012. Its specialty is providing outdoor clean green power solutions to explorers. It produces portable, renewable solar energy while keeping the environment clean.

Jackery solarSaga 100 watts portable solar panel is the ideal investment for uninterrupted power in remote areas. With its high conversion efficiency of 23%, you’ll make your life comfortable. It can work more efficiently and perform even better in hot weather.

Jackery solarSaga 100 watts portable solar panel is equipped with 1 USB-A (5V, 2.4A) output port and 1 USB-C (5V,3A) output port that can charge multiple small devices a single time, such as smartphones, digital cameras, tablets, etc. The only drawback of jackery solarSaga is that its USB-C port can not support PD charging. 

4. Renogy 50 Watt 12 Volt Extremely Flexible Monocrystalline Solar Panel – Best for Outdoor

Rating: 4.6/5

  •  Extremely Lightweight
  • Perfect for outdoors
  • Convenient for use

People looking for extreme adventure while being equipped with equally challenging equipment should not ignore how beneficial Renogy 50 watt monocrystalline solar panels can be. This solar panel is anything but ordinary. It is specially designed for marine use or power supply for a Van, boat, or teardrop trailer. 

What makes it the perfect choice for outdoor is its extremely thin, lightweight, and flexible design up to a 248-degree arc. This convenient and efficient solar panel weighs 70% less than typical solar panels. Renogy 50 watt monocrystalline solar panel weighs only 2.87, only a quarter of its regular 50-watt counterpart. Its flexibility and lightweight allow easy installation, especially on uneven surfaces.

This self-powered solar panel is rigorously tested to avoid inconvenience to customers. Its 50-watt panel is designed to withstand heavy wind up to 2400 PA and snow loads up to 5400 PA with no hot spod guaranteed. Its dimensions are 26.5 x 20.0 x 0.16 inches, max power at STC 50W, open-circuit voltage 22.6V, short-circuit current is 2.92V, optimum operation voltage is 18.5V, optimum operation current is 2.71A. The operating temperature is -40 F to 185 F. The Renogy flexible monocrystalline solar panel includes one 50W 12volts solar panel.

5. GIARIDE 50W Monocrystalline Flexible Solar Panel – Best Build

Rating: 4.2/5

  • Lightweight
  • Waterproof
  • Solar power system charger
  • 12V battery charging
  • Flexible and bendable off-grid solar power

Starting with this efficient solar panel’s specification, its optimal power is 50 watt, working voltage is 18 volts, operating current is 2.7A, short circuit current is 2.9A, open circuit voltage is 20 volts, dimensions are 67.5 X 51 X 3 cm/26.57 x 20 x 0.12 inches with air resistant up to 50psf, 2400 pascals and snow resistant up to 113psf, 5400 pascals. The solar panel weighs only 1.2kb/ 42.33oz.

Unlike traditional conventional solar panels, which are 15% or lower, monocrystalline cells in GIARIDE 50 watt flexible solar panels are made from 20.5% efficiency. The solar panel is equally large and can produce higher power compared to traditional solar models. The latest surge protection and circuit technology make it a durable solar device.

The monocrystalline solar cell in GIARIDE 50 watt is advanced lamination into a flexible and thin plastic sheet. The panel can be curved at 30 degrees max for a smooth curve and can be mounted on uneven surfaces such as RV, boat, tent, cabin, motorhome, etc.

GIARIDE 50 watt monocrystalline solar panel is extremely easy to install. The pre-drilled holes on solar panels are there for fast and easy mounting. The waterproof and dust resistance technology makes it tough and durable. Enjoy easy traveling with this lightweight, flexible easy-to-install solar panel with a complete GIARIDE 50 watt package that includes a solar panel with 18 months customer-friendly warranty.

6. TwelSeavan 120W Foldable Portable Solar Panel – Best Features

Rating: 4.5/5

  • 4 ports with USB3.0
  • Type C for outdoor
  • Compact and portable

TwelSeavan 120w foldable solar panel is a smart choice for people looking for efficient and convenient solar panels. The high-efficiency monocrystalline solar cells in TwelSeavn have efficiencies of up to 23% that convert maximum solar energy into usable energy. This solar panel manages to do so with no larger than ordinary solar panels.

Its high compatibility includes ten DC connectors compatible virtually with all the portable solar generators available in the marketplace currently. It has an 8mm DC adapter for jackery Explorer 160/500/240/1000 power station. Also, for Goal Zero Yeti 400 or 150 and BALDR 330W Power Station. In addition, it has a 3.5*1.35mm DC Adapter for Aiper 150W, ENKEEO S155, Suaoki S270, and Paxcess 100W portable generator. A 5.5*2.1mm DC Adapter for FlashFish 200W, Rockpals 350W/250W/500W power station, and PRYMAX 300W portable generator. Along with that, it has a C4 connector cable for other compatible mobile power stations.

What makes it stand out in the market is its upgraded 4-port intelligent charging technology. It is equipped with 1 D port (18V/6.6A max),  1*USB QC3.0 port(5V⎓3A/9V⎓2.5A/12V⎓2A 24W max),  1*USB port(5V/2.1A), 1* USB-C PD port(5V⎓3A 9V⎓3A/12V⎓3A/15V⎓3A/20V⎓3A, 60W max) with built-in smart IC chip that can intelligently identify the device while automatically adjusting the optimal current. Its charging compatibility devices are 4 times efficient and faster than typical solar chargers, compatible with smartphones, power banks, tablets, laptops, digital cameras, and more.

With TwelSeavan, you won’t have to invest in regular maintenance. The solar panel is highly durable as it has an industrial-strength PET polymer. It is sewn into an ultra-durable polyester canvas that provides weather-resistance durability. It is ideal for off-grid projects such as cabin, picnic, hiking, camping, and more.

Not only weather-resistant technology but its portability is also a reason why it’s good for off-grid projects. The solar panel is ultra-compact with size 20.5*14.4*1.6 inch(folded)/64.6*20.5 inch(opened), weight 9.5 lbs. The suitcase comes with a rubber handle to make it easy to carry the solar panel anywhere. Thanks to 4 adjustable kickstands and 4 metal reinforced mounting holes that you don’t have to carry an installation expert anywhere you go.

7. Kazeila Foldable 100W Portable Solar Panel for Solar Generator Power Station – Best for multiple options

Rating: 4.4/5

  • It is a foldable solar panel
  • Solar charger kit with 18V USB, DC, 5V PD, and 45W QC3.0 Output
  • Clean solar energy

Make your off-grid activities easy and convenient with Kazeila foldable 100-watt portable solar panel. It is efficient and compatible with most solar power stations/generators available in the market. It helps you build your private solar-generator system. Talking about its specifications, the model no is solar LK100 with 100-watt peak power. The open-circuit voltage is 21.12V, short-circuit current is 6.24A, the maximum working current is 5.68A, DC output is  18V/5.68A(Max) with  5V/2.4A USB output, and 5V 2.4A/9V 2A/12V 2A/15V 2A/20V 2A (Max) type-C output. Its folded size is 21.7*21.2*0.4 inches, while unfolded/open size is 43.4*21.2*0.2 inches. The weight of this portable solar panel is just 2.65 pounds.

This solar panel is an ideal choice for outdoor, work, and home outage emergencies. It provides uninterrupted solar energy at a conversion rate of up to 23% (under sufficient solar light) through its high-efficiency solar array. This solar panel is equipped with 4-way outputs. It can charge multiple devices at a time due to 1*Type-C(5V/9V/12V/15V/20V) outputs, 1*USB-A(5V),1*QC3.0(5V/9V/12V), 1*DC(18V)

The company offers 30 days hassle-free return policy, lifetime customer service with a 1-year warranty on Kazeila foldable 100w solar panel. The package includes 1*User guide, 1*Anderson cable(3m), 10*DC connectors, and 1*Kazeila 100W solar panel.

8. Jackery SolarSaga 100W Portable Solar Panel – Best Premium

Rating: 4.8/5  

  • Foldable solar panel
  • Solar charger with USB outputs for phones.
  • US solar cell
  • Robust Technology

California-based Jackery specializes in manufacturing high-quality eco-friendly solar panels. These panels are especially for the needs of travelers. This solar panel is quieter as compared to ordinary solar panels out there. The solar panel with Jackery Explorer 160/240/500/1000 power station (sold separately) can boost the efficiency of your portable solar generator system.

Save yourself from an unexpected power outage through this durable solar panel. The conversion rate of Jackery SolarSaga 100 watts is 23%. It generates more energy and performs even better when the sunlight is bright and shiny. This solar panel comes with a solar charge and USB outputs. It is equipped with a 1 * USB-A(5V, 2.4A) output port and 1* USB-C(5V,3A) output port that helps you charge multiple devices at a time such as a laptop, smartphone, camera, tablet, and more. The lightweight and foldable features make it easy to carry Jackery SolarSaga anywhere you go.

How To Buy Best 4×4 Solar Panel

When you start searching for 4×4 solar panels, you’ll realize that every renowned and small company offers solar panels with many features. You’ll find yourself in a situation where it will be challenging to make the right choice. You won’t be able to identify the must-haves in your 4×4 solar panel. Here is the list of features to look for in a solar panel to help you make the right decision.

The efficiency of the solar panel

The first and foremost thing to look at in a solar panel is its efficiency. You need to understand how much electricity it can generate for you. The amount of electricity a solar panel produces depends on its size so carefully think if you’re buying it to light a small bulb or enjoy chilled drinks during camping in hot weather to purchase the right size solar panel. You will need to carefully calculate your daily power usage to get the accurate solar panel to provide you with the needed energy. Don’t make the mistake of buying a cheaper solar panel with less energy conversion rate.

The size of the shadow of the solar panel

How much energy a solar panel can generate is directly proportional to the amount of sunlight it receives. The bigger the shadow the panel makes on the ground, the higher energy it will produce. To maximize the size of the shadow, you need to have a solar panel that gives you the freedom to adjust it; in short, you need to have a flexible/foldable solar panel to position at an angle where it makes a large shadow on the ground behind it.

How do you expect to utilize your solar panel?

Another essential thing to realize before purchasing a solar panel is if you’re going to use it when you are near your car or camping? If you plan to use it when backpacking, the solar panel must be easy to carry. You must go for a lightweight, foldable, and easy to carry solar panel in such a situation. Don’t forget that you might not be going out on the trip with solar panel installation experts, so easy installation is a must-have here.

Whereas if you’re going to use it when you have access to your car, you must look for a solar panel that can be roof-mounted. It must be waterproof because you can’t afford it to go dead when you need to recharge your phone badly.

Conclusion

A good quality solar panel is a must-have when you’re planning to go out and make some memories with your friends and family. To avoid running out of batteries in an emergency or enjoy the chilled bear while enjoying the cold breeze in a remote area, you’ll be needing a 4×4 solar panel. Grab one of the above-mentioned solar panels before you leave for your next trip.