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The Bluetti AC50B Power Station is a robust and versatile mid-tier power solution designed to meet a variety of power needs. It stands as an upgraded version of the earlier EB50 model, incorporating modern design elements, enhanced app compatibility, and a host of new features. This review delves into the AC50B’s key features, performance metrics, practical uses, and overall value proposition.
Key Features
- Charging Ports:
- Type-C Ports: The AC50B includes two 65W Type-C ports, which are ideal for charging modern devices, including the latest iPhone 15.
- Type-A Port: It also features a single 15W Type-A port for devices requiring lower power.
- Solar and Car Charging:
- The power station comes equipped with an MC4 to XT60 solar charging cable, an AC charging cable, and a car charging cable. This variety ensures that users have flexible options for recharging, whether they are at home, on the road, or off the grid.
- Battery and Power:
- Battery Type: The AC50B uses lithium iron phosphate batteries, known for their longevity and safety. These batteries offer approximately 3,000 charge cycles while retaining 80% of their original capacity.
- Portability: Weighing in at just 16.5 lbs and featuring a convenient handle, the AC50B is designed for easy transport and portability.
- Display Screen:
- The intuitive display shows critical information at a glance, including input/output wattage, remaining battery capacity, estimated runtime, and active modes such as powerlifting and eco mode.
Performance Tests
- DC and AC Capacity:
- DC Capacity Efficiency: In testing, the AC50B achieved an impressive 87% efficiency in DC capacity.
- AC Capacity Efficiency: The unit delivered 78% efficiency in AC capacity tests, though this was somewhat influenced by the use of powerlifting mode.
- Charging Speed:
- Turbo Mode: For users needing quick recharges, the turbo mode is particularly noteworthy, offering a recharge rate of about 580W. This means the power station can be recharged from 0 to 100% in under an hour.
- Silent and Standard Modes: These modes provide quieter operation with slower recharge rates, catering to different user preferences.
App Integration
- Remote Control:
- The Bluetti app allows for comprehensive remote control of the power station’s sections (AC/DC), monitoring of input/output wattage, and adjustment of settings like recharging mode and auto-sleep.
- Advanced Settings:
- Users can update the power station’s firmware and adjust the AC outlet frequency through the app, ensuring the device remains up-to-date and optimized for various applications.
Practical Use
- Pass-Through Charging and UPS:
- The AC50B supports pass-through charging, enabling it to charge while simultaneously powering devices. This feature was effectively demonstrated using a crockpot. Additionally, the power station functions as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), seamlessly switching power sources without interrupting connected devices.
- Heater Test:
- The powerlifting mode showcased its capability to handle high-wattage appliances, such as a heater. Although the mode has limitations, it provides valuable flexibility for powering demanding devices.
Additional Features and Details
- Eco Mode and Auto Sleep:
- Eco Mode: Automatically shuts down the power station after a certain period of inactivity, helping to conserve battery life.
- Auto Sleep: Can be customized to keep the display screen on or turn it off after a period of inactivity to save power.
- Powerlifting Mode:
- Allows the power station to output up to 1,000 watts, enabling it to power higher wattage appliances. However, it is not recommended for continuous use with devices that require significantly more power than the unit’s standard output.
- Grounding Screw and Lug:
- The grounding screw can be used with the grounding lug on the side of the power station, providing an option to ground the AC outlets, which is a nice safety feature.
- Handle and Portability:
- The power station is designed for easy transport, with a sturdy handle and a lightweight build. This makes it suitable for outdoor activities like camping, as well as for use as an emergency backup power source at home.
- Recharging Options:
- The AC50B can be recharged using solar panels, an AC outlet, or a car outlet, providing flexibility based on user needs and availability of power sources.
- Firmware Upgrades:
- Through the Bluetti app, users can upgrade the power station’s firmware, ensuring that it remains current with the latest features and improvements from Bluetti.
Conclusion
The Bluetti AC50B Power Station emerges as a highly recommended mid-tier power solution. It offers a balanced combination of capacity, power output, and modern features, making it versatile and practical for a wide range of uses. Whether for daily power needs or specific applications like camping and emergency backup, the AC50B stands out as a reliable and efficient choice.
Final Thoughts
- Recommended Use Cases: This power station is ideal for users needing a dependable portable power source for everyday use and small to mid-sized appliances.
- Value Proposition: The AC50B provides excellent value with its robust features, efficient performance, and reasonable price point.
- Overall Assessment: With its modern connectivity options, impressive efficiency, and comprehensive app integration, the Bluetti AC50B is a top contender in the mid-tier power station market. It offers a solid starting point for users new to portable power solutions, ensuring they have a reliable and versatile power source without overspending on higher-capacity models.
Since 2016, Usman has flourished as an independent tech journalist, reveling in the evaluation of diverse tech gadgets, with a particular fondness for charging technology to ascertain product performance. Besides his journalistic endeavors, he helms the Charger Harbor YouTube channel, where he extends his tech insights to a broader audience.