Outdoor enthusiasts and campers across the UK have reason to celebrate this Black Friday season, as Jackery unveils its significantly upgraded Explorer 500 V2 portable power station. Tested and reviewed, this compact powerhouse represents a substantial improvement over its already popular predecessor, offering enhanced safety, faster charging, and greater longevity.
Major Upgrades Define The New Model
The Explorer 500 V2 marks a comprehensive refresh of Jackery's portable power station lineup. The most significant change comes in the form of its battery technology, with the company ditching traditional Lithium-ion batteries in favour of safer LiFePO4 batteries. These new batteries are not only more efficient but also boast a considerably longer lifespan.
Weighing in at just 5.7kg, the new model is noticeably lighter than the previous version's 6.4kg. The redesign includes a reduced height profile and introduces a flat surface with a retractable handle, moving away from the fixed handle that sometimes proved awkward in tight spaces. This new design language aligns with Jackery's larger power stations, creating a cohesive product family.
Performance Enhancements That Matter
Perhaps the most impressive upgrade lies in the charging capabilities. The original Explorer 500 required a lengthy 7.5 hours to achieve a full charge, whereas the new V2 version slashes this time dramatically to just 1.3 hours for AC charging. This represents a game-changing improvement for users who need reliable power on the go.
The battery lifespan sees an even more dramatic improvement. Thanks to the advanced LiFePO4 technology, the V2 is rated for 6,000 cycles before dropping to 70% of its useful capacity. This stands in stark contrast to the original model's 800-cycle rating to 80% capacity, making the new version a considerably better long-term investment.
Surprising Value During Black Friday
Despite these comprehensive upgrades, the pricing story brings welcome news. While the recommended retail price is actually £100 lower than the outgoing model's original RRP, current Black Friday deals make the new Explorer 500 V2 even more accessible. At the time of testing, the price difference between the old and new models amounted to just £1, creating exceptional value for such significant improvements.
The unit isn't without its minor drawbacks. Unlike some of Jackery's larger power stations, the Explorer 500 V2 doesn't connect to a companion app for remote monitoring and control. However, it does include a new Energy Saving switch that automatically manages outputs. Additionally, the solar panel connection still uses Jackery's proprietary socket rather than the more versatile XT60-style connector that some users might prefer.
Having tested the Explorer 500 V2 alongside Jackery's SolarSaga 100w panel, it's clear this power station successfully builds upon the strong foundation of its predecessor. For campers, outdoor adventurers, and anyone seeking reliable portable power, the Jackery Explorer 500 V2 emerges as a thoroughly modernised tool that justifies its status as a Black Friday essential.
