If you are searching for a compact, reliable, and budget-friendly portable power station, this Jackery Explorer 240 review is exactly what you need. Whether you’re camping in the wild, traveling in your RV, or preparing for an emergency power outage, the Explorer 240 stands out as a lightweight yet powerful companion. Many people look for jackery explorer 240 portable power station reviews before making their purchase, and for good reason — this small unit has made a big name in the portable power market. With a 240Wh lithium battery, pure sine wave AC outlet, and solar compatibility, it can charge your smartphone, laptop, GoPro, or even a mini-fridge. The real charm of the Explorer 240 lies in its portability, user-friendly design, and versatility. Once you discover what it offers, you’ll find yourself scrolling down eagerly to see why it has become one of Jackery’s most popular entry-level power stations.
Jackery explorer 240 review: Portable and easy to carry
Specifications
- Capacity: 240Wh (16.8Ah, 14.4V)
- AC Output: 110V, 200W (400W Peak)
- USB-A Output: 2 × 5V, 2.4A
- Car Output: 12V, 10A, 120W
- Battery: Lithium-ion
- Weight: 6.6 lbs
- Dimensions: 9.1 x 5.2 x 7.9 in
- Operating Temperature: -10°C to 40°C (14°F to 104°F)
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Price and Availability
The Jackery Explorer 240 is one of the most affordable models in Jackery’s lineup. Prices usually range between $199 to $249, depending on deals and availability. It’s available on Amazon, Jackery’s official website, and outdoor gear retailers. Renewed or refurbished versions can often be found at a lower price, making it a solid entry-level choice for beginners.
Unboxing and First Impressions
Inside the box, you get the Jackery Explorer 240 Portable Power Station, an AC adapter, a car charger cable, and a user manual. The unit feels compact and sturdy at first touch. With its signature orange-and-black color scheme and ergonomic handle, it looks like a well-built product designed for easy carrying.
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Design and Build Quality
The Explorer 240 has a sleek, minimalist design. At just 6.6 pounds, it’s one of the lightest portable power stations in its category. The build feels durable with a strong casing, and it’s small enough to fit inside a backpack or RV storage. The control panel is simple, with clearly labeled input/output ports and an LCD display showing battery percentage and usage.
In Use
This unit shines for light-to-medium power needs. It can charge:
- Smartphones (up to 24 times)
- Laptops (3 times)
- GoPro/Action cameras (up to 40+ times)
- Mini projector or drone (multiple cycles)
- Mini refrigerator (short usage)
It’s perfect for camping trips, outdoor photography, fishing, and emergency backup at home. With solar compatibility, you can recharge it in about 7 hours using a 60W solar panel (sold separately). Wall outlet and car charging also take around 6.5 hours.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Lightweight and ultra-portable (6.6 lbs)
- Pure sine wave AC outlet for safe charging
- Multiple recharging options (solar, wall, car)
- Quiet, emission-free operation
- Affordable price for beginners
Cons
- Limited output (200W continuous, 400W peak)
- Not suitable for high-power appliances
- Solar panel sold separately
- Car charging takes long hours
Comparison Table – Jackery 2000 Plus vs Jackery Explorer 2000 v2
Feature | Jackery Explorer 240 | Jackery Explorer 240 v2 |
Capacity | 240Wh | 256Wh |
Output Power | 200W (400W Peak) | 300W (500W Peak) |
Weight | 6.6 lbs | 8 lbs |
Ports | 1 AC, 2 USB-A, 1 DC Carport | 1 AC, 2 USB-A, 1 USB-C, 1 DC Carport |
Battery | Lithium-ion | LiFePO4 (longer lifespan) |
Solar Charging | 60W panel support | 100W panel support |
Final Verdict
The Jackery Explorer 240 is a fantastic entry-level portable power station. It’s ideal for campers, hikers, and anyone who needs backup power for small devices. While it’s not built for heavy-duty appliances, it delivers excellent performance for its size and price. If you need longer battery life and more output, the newer Jackery Explorer 240 v2 is a better option. But for beginners, the original 240 remains a lightweight, affordable, and reliable choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can the Jackery Explorer 240 power a refrigerator?
Only a mini-fridge or small cooler for a limited time, not a full-size fridge.
Q2: How long does it take to charge fully?
Around 6.5 hours via wall outlet or car, and 7 hours via a 60W solar panel.
Q3: Can it run a CPAP machine?
Yes, with the proper adapter, but runtime depends on settings (around 6–8 hours).
Q4: Is the battery replaceable?
No, it’s a built-in lithium battery with 500+ charge cycles.
Q5: Is it good for camping?
Absolutely. It’s portable, lightweight, and quiet — perfect for outdoor use.
