Jackery vs Bluetti: Which Solar Generator Works Best in Cuba?
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Power blackouts in Cuba aren't "if"—they're "when" and "how long"
Your family already knows the drill. Candles ready, phone charged, fridge closed tight. But a solar generator? That changes everything. Suddenly the fan keeps spinning, the phone stays charged, and abuela's nebulizer works when it needs to.
Two brands dominate this space: Jackery and Bluetti. Both make excellent portable power stations. But which one actually makes sense for Cuba—where humidity eats electronics, voltage fluctuates, and shipping costs can rival the product price? Let's break it down.
Here's what most buying guides won't tell you: the "best" solar generator for camping in Colorado is not the best choice for surviving apagones in Havana. Different priorities entirely. You need something that handles humidity without corroding, charges fast when the grid flickers back on, and has enough capacity to actually matter during 8-12 hour blackouts.
Both Jackery and Bluetti use LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) batteries in their newer models—that's the good stuff. More charge cycles, better heat tolerance, longer lifespan. Critical for a climate that punishes lesser batteries. But the similarities end there. Wattage, charging speeds, port configurations, and build quality vary significantly across their lineups.
I've analyzed hundreds of reviews, compared specs, and factored in what actually matters for Cuban conditions. The winner might surprise you.
⚡ The Quick Answer
For most Cuban families: the Bluetti AC180 wins on raw power output (1800W vs 1500W), faster charging, and slightly better value. But if portability matters more than peak wattage, the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 is lighter and more compact. Both are excellent—your choice depends on what you're powering.
See Bluetti AC180 on AmazonThe Power Champion: Bluetti AC180
Bluetti AC180 Portable Power Station
4.6★ (465 reviews) • $$$$$
1152Wh capacity with 1800W continuous output (2700W surge). That's enough to run a full-size refrigerator, multiple fans, and charge devices simultaneously. The 0-80% charge in 45 minutes is genuinely impressive—when the power comes back, you're ready fast.
- ✓ 2 AC outlets (handles 220V Cuban appliances with adapter)
- ✓ LiFePO4 battery rated for 3,500+ cycles
- ✓ Power Lifting mode pushes to 2700W for demanding loads
- ✓ App control via Bluetooth
VERDICT: The best balance of power, speed, and longevity for serious blackout protection.
Check Price on AmazonHead-to-Head: The 1000Wh Class
This is where most families should focus. Enough capacity for essentials, portable enough to ship without breaking the bank.
Jackery Explorer 1000 v2
4.7★ (475 reviews) • $$$$$
1070Wh • 1500W output • 1hr fast charge
Pros: Lighter weight, excellent build quality, 100W USB-C output, proven reliability
Cons: Lower wattage (1500W vs 1800W), fewer AC outlets
Check Price →
Bluetti Elite 100 V2 (2025)
4.5★ (New) • $$$$$
1024Wh • 1800W (3600W surge) • 35% smaller
Pros: 4 AC outlets, massive surge capacity, compact 2025 design, UPS backup mode
Cons: Brand new (limited real-world reviews), slightly less capacity
Check Price →"The Bluetti's 1800W output means you can run the refrigerator AND the fan. The Jackery's 1500W means you're choosing between them."
Calculate What Your Family Actually Needs
Every household is different. Use this calculator to figure out the right capacity based on typical blackout duration and what needs to stay running.
Solar Sizing Calculator
Select Your Appliances
Daily Energy Usage
View Cost Breakdown →
| Solar Panels (3x 400W) | $750 |
| Batteries (3x 100Ah) | $1200 |
| Inverter (1000W) | $300 |
| Wiring & Accessories | $150 |
| Installation (DIY savings) | $200 |
Pro Tips: Start with essentials (lights, fan, fridge, phones) and expand later. LiFePO4 batteries cost more but last 10+ years vs 3-5 years for lead-acid. In Cuba's climate, expect 5-6 peak sun hours daily.
For Extended Blackouts: The 2000Wh Class
When 8-hour blackouts become 24-hour blackouts, you need serious capacity. The Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 is built for exactly this scenario.
Jackery Explorer 2000 v2
4.7★ (475 reviews) • $$$$$
2042Wh of LiFePO4 capacity with 2200W output. This beast can run a small refrigerator for over 24 hours, power medical equipment through extended outages, or keep an entire household's essentials running. The 100W USB-C PD port handles modern devices efficiently.
VERDICT: Overkill for short blackouts, essential for the long ones. If you're in a province with worse grid reliability, this is the one.
Check Price on AmazonBudget-Friendly Options (Still Worth Considering)
Not everyone needs 1000+ watts. For phone charging, LED lights, and small fans, these compact options deliver solid value.
Jackery Explorer 300
4.6★ (465 reviews) • $$$$$
293Wh capacity. Perfect for phones, tablets, LED lights, and small fans. Compact and lightweight—easy to ship.
Best for: Basic essentials, backup charging
Check Price →
Bluetti AC50B
4.6★ (465 reviews) • $$$$$
448Wh with 700W output (1000W with Power Lifting). More versatile than the Jackery 300, charges 0-80% in 45 min.
Best for: Small appliances, faster charging needs
Check Price →Quick Specs Comparison
| Model | Capacity | Output | Charge Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bluetti AC180 | 1152Wh | 1800W | 45 min (0-80%) | Refrigerators, high-demand |
| Jackery 1000 v2 | 1070Wh | 1500W | 1 hour | Portability, reliability |
| Jackery 2000 v2 | 2042Wh | 2200W | ~2 hours | Extended outages, provinces |
| Bluetti AC50B | 448Wh | 700W | 45 min (0-80%) | Budget, small appliances |
| Jackery 300 | 293Wh | 300W | ~2 hours | Phones, lights, basics |
Interactive Comparison
Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station,1070Wh LiFePO4 Battery,1500W AC/100W USB-C Output, 1 Hr Fast Charge, Solar Generator for Camping,Emergency, RV, Off-Grid Living(Solar Panel Optional)
Portable Power Station AC180, 1152Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup w/ 2 1800W (2700W peak) AC Outlets, 0-80% in 45Min, Solar Generator for Camping, Off-grid, Power Outage
Explorer 2000 v2 Portable Power Station, 2042Wh LiFePO4 Home Backup Battery, 2200W Solar Generator, USB-C PD 100W Fast Charging for Emergencies, Power Outages, Camping(Solar Panel Optional)
Estimate Shipping Costs
These units are heavy. Factor shipping into your total cost before deciding.
| Carrier | Shipping | Customs | Total | Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mula (Informal) Cheapest but least reliable. Ask for references. | $20.00 | $20.00 | $40.00 | 7-30 days |
Cubamax Popular choice. Pickup points in Cuba. | $35.00 | $20.00 | $55.00 | 14-21 days |
Caribbean Air Mail Good balance of price and speed. | $40.00 | $20.00 | $60.00 | 10-18 days |
DHL Express Most reliable but expensive. Door-to-door delivery. | $75.00 | $20.00 | $95.00 | 5-10 days |
* Estimates based on 2024 rates. Actual costs may vary. Customs fees depend on Cuba regulations which change frequently.
🇨🇺 Cuba-Specific Considerations
- Voltage: Both brands output standard 110V AC. Cuban homes use 110V/220V—most modern appliances work fine, but verify before connecting anything.
- Humidity: LiFePO4 batteries handle heat better than lithium-ion, but store the unit in a dry place when not in use.
- Solar panels: Sold separately. Worth the investment if your family has roof access—free charging during the day.
- Customs: Solar generators are generally allowed, but declare them properly. Lithium batteries under 100Wh have fewer restrictions.
- Shipping weight: The Jackery 2000 v2 weighs ~43 lbs. Factor this into shipping costs—it's not cheap.
The Bottom Line
For most families: The Bluetti AC180 offers the best combination of power, charging speed, and value. That 1800W output handles refrigerators and fans simultaneously—something the Jackery 1000 v2 can't match.
For extended outages or rural areas: The Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 provides double the capacity for those 24+ hour blackouts that hit the provinces hardest.
On a budget: The Bluetti AC50B punches above its weight with Power Lifting mode and fast charging.
Featured Products
Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station,1070Wh LiFePO4 Battery,1500W AC/100W USB-C Output, 1 Hr Fast Charge, Solar Generator for Camping,Emergency, RV, Off-Grid Living(Solar Panel Optional)
Portable Power Station AC180, 1152Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup w/ 2 1800W (2700W peak) AC Outlets, 0-80% in 45Min, Solar Generator for Camping, Off-grid, Power Outage
Explorer 2000 v2 Portable Power Station, 2042Wh LiFePO4 Home Backup Battery, 2200W Solar Generator, USB-C PD 100W Fast Charging for Emergencies, Power Outages, Camping(Solar Panel Optional)
Portable Power Station Explorer 300, 293Wh Backup Lithium Battery, Solar Generator for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Blackout (Solar Panel Optional)
BLUETTI Elite 100 V2 Portable Power Station (2025 New), 1024Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup w/ 4 1800W AC Outlets (3600W Surge), 35% Smaller, Solar Generator for Camping, Outages, and UPS BackupBLUETTI Elite 100 V2 Portable Power Station (2025 New…