Outdoor enthusiasts and camping aficionados have reason to celebrate this Black Friday season as Jackery launches its significantly upgraded Explorer 500 V2 portable power station. Tested and reviewed by technology expert Gareth Butterfield, this compact power solution represents a substantial improvement over its already popular predecessor.
Major Upgrades Transform the Camping Essential
The Explorer 500 V2 marks a comprehensive refresh of Jackery's portable power station lineup, with this particular model being one of the most anticipated updates. The original Explorer 500 had established itself as a market leader among camping and outdoor power solutions, maintaining its popularity for over five years thanks to its rugged design and reliable performance.
Perhaps the most significant improvement comes in the battery technology. Jackery has completely replaced the Lithium-ion batteries with advanced LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries, which offer enhanced safety, improved efficiency, and a dramatically extended lifespan. This change alone makes the V2 version a compelling upgrade for safety-conscious users.
Enhanced Design and Performance Specifications
The physical design has undergone thoughtful improvements that enhance both portability and usability. Weighing in at just 5.7kg, the new model is noticeably lighter than its 6.4kg predecessor. The dimensions have been refined with reduced height, and the fixed handle has been replaced with a retractable design that makes storage and transport considerably easier.
Charging performance sees remarkable improvements, particularly in AC charging times. Where the original model required 7.5 hours for a full charge, the V2 version achieves complete charging in just 1.3 hours – a dramatic reduction that makes the power station much more practical for regular use.
The battery lifespan statistics are equally impressive. The new LiFePO4 batteries are rated for 6,000 charge cycles before reaching 70% of their original capacity, compared to just 800 cycles for the previous model at 80% capacity retention. This represents a substantial long-term value improvement for frequent users.
Black Friday Pricing and Minor Drawbacks
Despite the comprehensive upgrades, the pricing remains surprisingly competitive. The recommended retail price is actually £100 lower than the original model's launch price, though current Black Friday deals make direct comparisons particularly favourable for shoppers. At the time of testing, the price difference between models was just £1, making the upgraded V2 an obvious choice.
The updated power station isn't without its minor limitations. Unlike some of Jackery's larger models, the Explorer 500 V2 doesn't feature app connectivity, which means users can't remotely monitor status or control outputs via smartphone. However, the inclusion of an Energy Saving switch provides some automated power management functionality.
Another area where improvement was possible but not implemented concerns the solar panel connection. The socket remains incompatible with XT60-style connectors, which would have offered greater versatility for users who frequently switch between different solar panel brands.
Overall, the Jackery Explorer 500 V2 represents a thoughtful and comprehensive upgrade that addresses most of the limitations of its already successful predecessor. With significant improvements in charging speed, battery technology, and physical design, coupled with attractive Black Friday pricing, it stands as a compelling option for anyone needing reliable portable power for outdoor adventures or emergency preparedness.
