We have translated enough portable power stations, some of which stretch the “portable” definition. While many of these products can clearly meet any power needs during blackouts or emergencies, not everyone needs 3000W or more power, especially for fast travel outdoors or when spending all day work somewhere that is less accessible . That’s where Cellblue Cellpoy500 (CP500) enters. We recently tested the power plant to see what he could give and happily with the results.
It must be refreshing to review a portable power plant that will not filter a person’s back when trying to lift it. Of course, weighing 17.2lb (7.8kg) is not a problem of laughing, but nothing compared to several hulking power stations on the market. Weight reduction means this model skimps a little when it comes to battery capacity, which we will pay later, but it is important to note the CP500 is not designed for a greater type of use scenario as a larger product.
Bigblue designed Cellpow500 to be easy to carry for short outdoor activities from the grid. In addition to its relatively light weight, the CP500 sports handle can be drawn, the design that makes it easier to carry the device while avoiding the hassle when it is the time to place a power plant in storage. That said, the top of a box-shaped device has a curved surface that is less ideal for placing objects, because they might slide dead.
The CP500 design is Spartan with a focus on more comfort than anything. All input and output ports are located on the front so the cable does not run from all sides. The fan ventilation is only on the left side, meaning you just need to think of ventilation on the one hand. Meanwhile, the device has large LED lights with two intensity settings and SOS modes that blink. As a result, you don’t need to be satisfied with a narrow beam of light when groping in the dark.
As mentioned, Bigblue Cellpow500 sacrifices battery capacity for portability, but it is not a knock on it. Everyone has different needs, and CP500 meets these needs for many consumers. For some users, the 537.6Wh battery is enough to get it throughout the day, especially considering the other benefits of the device offered.
Despite its compact size, there are ports available for each type of device and needs, including two 120V AC outlets, car chargers, two DC type barrels output, DC input for AC chargers and solar panels, two USB-A ports, and two 60W USB-C port. Capacity and output CP500 means it can charge or turn almost all things, including a 45W car refrigerator. However, the USB-C 60W output may not be enough for several laptops. Consumers in countries where 200V AC or higher is the norm will also want to record the limitations of power plants in that matter.
Cellpow500 also has several nifty features that redeem smaller battery size. You can, for example, use all output ports at the same time, even though naturally will drain the battery faster. You can also use PassThrough DC, which means you can use DC output when charging the power generation. Unfortunately, it won’t work for AC outlets because of safety steps.
Bigblue is also packaged by several other safety features in this small box. In addition to using a safer LIFEPO4 battery, the CP500 also displays over-charge protection, over-current, and overheating and will automatically turn off the port that exceeds the security limit.
Charging
Like portable power stations, a 500W battery will not last forever and ultimately need to be recharged. Smaller batteries, relatively talking, means the cost of CP500 is faster than a larger model, plus the Bigblue feature included to make a faster process.