When there’s a local power outage or if you’re heading to a remote area, having access to portable power can be crucial. While hauling a portable power station is one option, a more convenient choice might be using a portable power inverter. These devices draw energy directly from your car’s battery, eliminating the need to carry a heavy battery or deal with the hassles associated with portable power stations. If you have a car, you’re ready to use a portable power inverter.
For a versatile power inverter, consider the Bestek 500W. This model is straightforward to use, well-built, and compact. Weighing only 2.2 pounds and measuring 8.7 x 4.3 x 2.4 inches, it’s easy to take anywhere. The Bestek 500W is appreciated for its versatility and affordability, featuring quality battery clamps and an option to plug into a car’s cigarette lighter. However, the cigarette lighter option cannot draw as much power as connecting directly to the battery, so it’s better used for lighter applications.
One notable feature of the Bestek 500W is its power switch, which controls the two outlet ports but not the USB-A ports. USB-A ports consume minimal power, and the inverter includes safety protections for your car’s battery. It also boasts an ETL listing for safety, meeting stringent safety standards in the US.
For users needing more power, the Renogy 1000W is an excellent choice. Capable of handling 1000W with surges up to 2000W, this inverter is ideal for variable power applications. It offers advanced features like solar panel connectivity and a wired remote system. Many users prefer using it with an external battery because of its compatibility with various battery types including LI, SLD, GEL, FLD, and AGM batteries.
Amazon Basics 750W inverter is another reliable option. Known for its quality and service, this model includes an automatic shut-off feature and an ETL listing for safety. Its slim size (8.3 x 5.2 x 2.2 inches) allows for easy storage under a seat or in a glove box. It’s particularly suited for cigarette lighter connections, delivering around 100W of power. However, the included cables are short, so investing in longer battery attachment cables might be necessary to maximize its usage.
For heavy-duty needs, the Energizer 4000W power inverter stands out. It supports a 4000W standard operating rate and 8000W for peak performance, making it suitable for running multiple heavy-duty devices simultaneously. The LCD display provides clear information about battery and inverter status. This model is also ETL listed, ensuring higher safety standards. For example, with its 4000W capacity, you can run an air fryer, watch TV, and charge your phones simultaneously without any issues. It is, however, pricier than other options on this list.
If you need a compact inverter to keep small devices like a laptop charged while commuting, the CyberPower 160W peak inverter is ideal. With a small, swiveling head that fits into a cigarette lighter, it supplies about 100W of power (160W maximum). Its compact size (3.2 x 3.9 x 2.5 inches) and weight (0.3 pounds) make it easy to carry in a backpack, purse, or glove box. However, it may be a tight fit around your gearshift, depending on your car’s layout.
The chosen power inverters were selected for their portability, allowing them to be easily stored in your car until needed. Other factors like technical specifications, typical pricing, and consumer sentiment were also considered. Power inverters can be complex, so several factors should be weighed before making a selection.
When considering wattage, it’s essential to choose an inverter suited to your needs and then add a buffer—typically around 100W more than you think you’ll need. Aim for simplicity in your connections, using battery clamps for stationary needs and cigarette-lighter connections for on-the-go power. Most high-quality inverters offer both connection options.
Cable length is another crucial factor, particularly for inverters connected directly to the battery. Ideally, the inverter should sit in a convenient location like on a portable table, and longer cables can often replace shorter included ones.
Safety is a significant consideration, and many recommended inverters are ETL listed, meaning they’ve passed rigorous third-party testing for safety and performance. While smaller inverters that connect to cigarette lighters may not always boast these listings, thousands of positive reviews can provide peace of mind regarding their safety and reliability.
Ultimately, power inverters provide a range of wattages and features to suit different needs, from small, portable devices to powerful, high-wattage units capable of handling multiple heavy-duty tasks.