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Solio Classic Solar Charger

Solio Classic Solar Charger – compact, portable solar charger

The Solio Classic Solar chargers is a super compact portable solar charger. The sleek design unfolds into a fan blade type shape to reveal three solar panels ready to collect the sun’s rays to power your portable electronic devices.

Solio claims that the Solio Classic charges over 3200 devices including cell phones, digital cameras, GPS units, and mp3 player. The Solio Classic includes adapters for popular cell phone brands as well as a USB and mini USB. As far as charging time goes, Solio estimates that it will take around 9 hours to fully charge the device in the sun compared to 4.7 hours from a power outlet.

What is super cool about this device is that it stores energy for up to 1 year to you can charge up your electronics whenever you need to. Once the lithium battery is charged, you simply plug in your electronic device and press a button to begin charging. A status-indicator shows the power level of the battery at all times.

The quick & dirty:

Where you can find on:
Amazon: $76.67

Why they rock:

  • Sleek, compact design fans into a flowerlike shape, ready to collect the sun’s energy; just place in the light and Solio begins to charge
  • Solio Classic includes a microUSB tip that supports many new cell phones such as Motorola, Blackberry, LG and more
  • User-replaceable lithium ion battery stores solar energy for up to 1 year, letting you charge up your portable electronic accessories
  • Easy-to-operate device can be charged from either solar energy or with included USB charging cable
  • Once charged, simply plug in electronic device, press a button and charging begins; status-indicator LED on button shows power level of battery
  • About 60 min. of sunlight can provide nearly 10 min. of talk time or 4 hrs. of standby on most cell phones (performance may vary)
  • Rated output of 4 – 12 volts at 0 – 1 amp; solar panel output of 165mA at 6 volts; internal rechargeable lithium ion battery outputs 1600mAh at 3.6 volts
  • Weighs 5.6 ounces

Seat-of-the-pants rating: 8 out of 10

The Solio Classic is probably the most popular portable solar charger on the market. Although I haven’t tested it out myself, other reviewers say that it performs reliably and charges efficiently. It is important to note that solar chargers are great for emergencies and occasional use when camping or in the backcountry. You won’t be happy with a solar charger if you expect it to keep all your electronics fully charged when traveling – I don’t think solar chargers will ever be as fast as plugging into an outlet.

Looking to buy? Here’s where you can get one:
Amazon: $76.67