When the grid is not available, a portable power station can provide electricity to charge your devices and help power small appliances and even run sensitive medical equipment if needed. With many options on the market choosing the right portable power station for your needs can be challenging. Two highly-rated and popular brands are Dometic PLB40 and Jackery 500. This article will compare these two portable power stations to help determine which is the best choice for your situation based on factors such as power output, recharge time, physical size and budget. Without further adue, let’s get into it.
Table of Contents
Dometic PLB40 vs Jackery 500: Comparison Table
| Dometic PLB40 | Jackery 500 | |
| Item Weight | 16. 1 Pounds | 13.3 Pounds |
| Item Dimensions | 7.76 × 7.76 × 10.02 Inches | 11.84 × 7.59 × 9.2 Inches |
| Manufacturer | Dometic USA | Jackery |
| Batteries Required? | Yes | Yes |
| Batteries Included? | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Type | Lithium Iron Phosphate | Lithium-Ion |
| Item Model Number | 9600014024 | 500 |
| Capacity | 512 Watt-Hours | 518 Watt-Hours |
| Wattage | 500 W (2000 W Peak) | 500 W (1000 W Peak) |
| Special Features | Portable | Portable |
| Color | Matte Black | Black, Orange |
| Number of Power Outlets | 3 | 1 |
| Frequency | 60 Hz | 60 Hz |
| Battery Weight | 16 Pounds | 13 Pounds |
| Ideal Uses | Charging, Powering Up | Charging, Powering Up |
| Amperage | 40 Amps | 24 Amps |
| Charging Time | 5 Hours | 7 to 8 Hours |
| Warranty | 2 Year Manufacturer Warranty | 2 Year Manufacturer Warranty |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Dometic PLB40 |
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| Jackery 500 |
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The Key Features and Benefits of The Dometic PLB40
The PLB40 is a portable power station option from Dometic. The Dometic PLB40 has a lithium battery with a capacity of 512 watt-hours, which can provide 40 amps of continuous power and has a peak power of 2000 watts. This means it can power most small appliances and electronics for a limited time. However for higher-demand devices, the Dometic PLB40 may not have a long enough run time and you would need additional batteries. The Dometic PLB40 can recharge from a wall outlet in about 5 hours.
The Key Features and Benefits of The Jackery 500
The Jackery 500 portable power station has a lithium battery with a capacity of 518 watt-hours, which can provide 500 watts of continuous power and 1000 watts of peak power. The higher capacity means the Jackery 500 power more devices for longer periods, making it a good choice if you need to run things like mini fridges, CPAP machines or small power tools. The Jackery 500 can take anywhere from 7 to 8 hours to fully charge.
Battle of The Portable Power Stations: Dometic PLB40 vs Jackery 500
Above you took a look at the basic features you can expect from the two portable generators, now it’s time to loom at some of the most compelling features in head-on combat.
Dometic PLB40 vs Jackery 500: Power Output
The Dometic PLB40 provides 500 watts of continuous power and 2000 watts surge power, while the Jackery 500 offers 500 watts continuous and 1000 watts surge power. The Dometic model is better suited for running larger devices like RV air conditioners, power tools and medical equipment. The Jackery 500 is ideal for charging electronics, running small appliances and powering sensitive devices.
Dometic PLB40 vs Jackery 500: Battery Capacity
The Dometic PLB40 has a 40 amp-hour lithium battery that provides up to 5 hours of run time at 50% load. The Jackery 500 has a lithium-ion battery with a 518 watt-hour capacity, which can power most devices for 3 to 6 hours. The higher capacity Dometic PLB40 battery allows for extended use between charges.
Dometic PLB40 vs Jackery 500: Additional Features
Both the Dometic and the Jackery have built-in handles, LCD screens to monitor power levels and USB ports for charging mobile devices. However, the Dometic PLB40 also includes a built-in inverter for AC power, RV-ready outlets and a battery charger. The Jackery 500 is more portable at just 13.3 pounds compared to the 16 pound Dometic PLB40. The Jackery 500 is ideal if you need a high-powered, long-lasting power stationfor RV and worksite use. For a lightweight and budget-friendly power station to charge essential gear on the go then the Dometic PLB40 is a great choice. By looking at how much power you require and how long you need it to last, you can determine which portable power station is right for your needs.
Dometic PLB40 vs Jackery 500: Battery Capacity and Recharge Time
The Dometic PLB40 contains a lithium iron phosphate battery with a capacity of 3.6 kilowatt-hours (kWh) that provides 6-8 hours of run time at 50% load, while the Jackery 500 has a lithium-ion battery with a 518 watt-hour (Wh) capacity that lasts 6-8 hours per charge powering small devices. The higher capacity battery in the Dometic PLB40 means longer run times in between recharges. However, the Jackery 500 fully recharges in just 7-8 hours using the included AC adapter, compared to 5 hours for the Dometic PLB40. Faster recharge time could be an important factor if access to power is limited.
Dometic PLB40 vs Jackery 500: Which One Is Best For You?
The Dometic PLB40 has a higher power output at 500 watts continuous and 2000 watts surge, compared to the Jackery 500’s 500 watts continuous and 1000 watts surge. If running high-powered devices is a priority then the Dometic PLB40 will likely suit your needs better with its increased wattage. In terms of battery size, the Jackery 500 has a slight edge with its 518 watt-hour lithium-ion battery compared to the Dometic PLB40’s 512 watt-hour battery. The Jackery 500 can power more devices for longer on a single charge. However, the Dometic PLB40 still provides a reasonable capacity and can recharge compatible laptops, phones and other electronics multiple times before needing to be recharged itself. While the Dometic PLB40 and Jackery 500 are both high-quality portable power station options, the best choice for you depends on factors like your power needs, desire for portability and some preferred extra features. You should then evaluate how you plan to use a portable power station to determine which portable power station will suit your requirements most effectively.
How The Dometic PLB40 and The Jackery 500 Charge Your Devices
The Dometic PLB40 and Jackery 500 are designed to charge and power a variety of electronic devices. Both portable generators can charge your devices because of;
- Multiple USB ports (including USB-C) to charge smartphones, tablets, cameras and other USB-powered gear. The Dometic PLB40 has 2 USB ports while the Jackery 500 has 3 USB ports.
- Standard AC outlets to power laptops, CPAP machines, mini fridges and more. The Dometic PLB40 has 1 AC outlet compared to 2 on the Jackery 500.
- The ability to charge devices even when no power source is available. The Dometic PLB40 has a 40,800 mAh lithium battery capacity providing 512 watt-hours of power. The Jackery 500 has a 518 watt-hour lithium battery capacity, one of the largest of most portable power stations.
But You Need To;
- Make sure the portable power station is fully charged. Both the Dometic PLB40 and Jackery 500 can recharge from an AC wall outlet, car charger or solar panels (which are sold separately).
- Connect your electronic devices to the appropriate outputs on the portable power station; USB ports for USB-powered gear, AC outlets for anything that plugs into a standard wall outlet.
- Turn on the power button to begin charging your connected devices.
- Monitor the battery level indicator to see how much runtime is left to determine when recharging the power stationis needed.
- The Dometic PLB40 can provide multiple charges for a smartphone while the Jackery 500 is capable of charging a smartphone multiple times on a single charge as well.
How Much Do These Portable Generators Cost To Run
The initial purchase price is often a major factor for many consumers when deciding between the Dometic PLB40 and the Jackery 500. The Dometic PLB40 typically retails for $650 to $700, while the Jackery 500 ranges from $500 to $800 (for its solar charged model). For a small, portable power station, the Jackery 500 does come at a moderately higher upfront cost. However, when you consider the power output and capacity of each portable power station then the Jackery 500 may provide better value for your money in the long run. The Dometic PLB40 offers 512 watt-hours of continuous power and a lithium battery with a capacity of 3.2 kilowatt-hours (kWh). In contrast, the Jackery 500 provides 518 watt-hours of continuous power and a lithium battery with a capacity of 5.1 kWh.
Some Frequently Asked Questions About The Dometic PLB40 And The Jackery 500
What Are The Main Differences Between The Dometic PLB40 and Jackery 500 Portable Generators?
The Dometic PLB40 has a larger capacity lithium battery (40 Ah vs 24 Ah) and a higher continuous power output (500W to 2000W vs 500W to 1000W) compared to the Jackery 500. This means the Dometic PLB40 can power more devices at once and for longer. However the Jackery 500 is more compact and lightweight, weighing only 13.3 lbs compared to the Dometic PLB40’s 16.6 lbs.
How Long Do The Batteries Last?
The Dometic PLB40 lithium battery is rated to retain about 80% of its capacity after 500 cycles, while the Jackery 500 battery should retain 80% after 800 cycles. With proper care and storage, both batteries can provide years of use. However, lithium batteries will slowly lose capacity over time even when not in use. For the best performance, use and recharge your portable power station at least once every 3-6 months.
What Devices Can The Jackery 500 Power?
The Jackery 500 can charge or power devices that operate at less than 500 watts and the total wattage of all connected devices should also be under 1000 watts as well. If the power requirement exceeds this limit then the Jackery 500 will automatically shut off. Please check your Jackery 500’s technical recommendations and specifications before making a purchase.
How Can I Know The Working Time For My Portable Power Station?
You can calculate the working time using the formula: Working time = 500Wh*0.85/operating power of your device. For example, if the power consumption of your device is 60W, the estimated working time of the portable power station would be approximately 7 hours. Please note that actual power consumption will greatly vary based on different usage patterns and circumstances like temperature and battery capacity after a charge.
How Long Does It Take To Fully Charge These Power Stations?
With the Dometic PLB40 you can expect to take anywhere from 5 hours just to get a full charge. Which is essential to having a usable portable power station. The Jackery 500 on the other hand can be fully charged in approximately 7.5 hours via AC wall outlet. Additionally, you have two other recharge options: around 7.5 hours from a car port and approximately 9.5 hours from a Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panel (sold separately).
Can The Jackery 500 Be Charged While In use?
Yes, you can use the Jackson to charge devices while it is being recharged at the same time. Which can also be said for the Dometic PLB40 as well.
Conclusion
As you have seen, both the Dometic PLB40 and Jackery 500 are excellent portable power station options, with almost similar performance, quality and reliability. The final choice comes down to your specific needs and priorities. If maximum power output/ capacity and multiple charging options are most important then the Jackery 500 would likely suit you well. However, if compact size, lighter weight and a very slight lower cost are bigger factors then the Dometic PLB40 could be the better choice. Either of the portable power stations should serve you well for powering small appliances and electronics on the go or in an emergency situation. Take time to know what features matter most for your intended use and you’ll end up with a portable power station that gives you peace of mind and meets your power needs for many years to come.
| Dometic PLB40 |
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| Jackery 500 |
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