Anker SOLIX C200 DC vs Anker SOLIX C300 DC
BIKMAN TECHWelcome to the BIKMAN TECH blog, your go-to source for in-depth tech comparisons. Today, we're diving into a niche but crucial category: ultra-portable, DC-only power stations. If you're a hiker, backpacker, or anyone who needs to keep their essential gadgets charged without the weight of a traditional power station, this review is for you. We're putting two specialist models head-to-head: the Anker SOLIX C200 DC and the Anker SOLIX C300 DC. By the end of this article, you'll know exactly which of these lightweight powerhouses is the perfect companion for your next adventure.
An Overview for the Trailblazer
Before we get into the details, it's important to understand what these products are—and what they are not. The 🟨 Anker SOLIX C200 DC and 🟦 Anker SOLIX C300 DC are DC-only power stations. This means they do not have the standard AC wall outlets you'd find on larger units. By removing the bulky AC inverter, Anker has created incredibly lightweight and efficient devices designed specifically for charging modern electronics like smartphones, drones, cameras, and tablets via their USB and car socket ports. This focus makes them ideal for activities where weight and portability are the top priorities.
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetically and structurally, both power stations share the same rugged Anker SOLIX DNA. They feature a durable, compact chassis with a sturdy, integrated handle that makes them easy to grab and go. The construction feels solid, designed to withstand the bumps and scrapes of outdoor life.
Both the 🟨 C200 DC and 🟦 C300 DC also include a useful built-in ambient light. This isn't a high-powered flashlight but a soft, wide beam perfect for illuminating the inside of a tent or a small campsite area, adding a layer of convenience and saving you from packing a separate lantern.
The core of their build quality lies inside: both units use Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP or LiFePO4) batteries. This is a premium battery chemistry known for its exceptional safety and longevity. Anker promises over 3,000 charge cycles before the capacity degrades to 80%, giving these units a potential lifespan of up to 10 years with regular use.
The Core Decision: Capacity vs. Portability
The most significant difference between these two models comes down to a classic trade-off: power versus weight. Your choice will almost certainly hinge on which factor you value more for your specific needs.
The 🟨 SOLIX C200 DC is the champion of portability. Weighing a mere 2.2 kg (4.85 lbs), it's light enough to be a genuine consideration for multi-day backpacking trips where every ounce is scrutinized. It packs a 192Wh capacity, which is plenty for multiple smartphone charges or keeping a drone's batteries topped up.
The 🟦 SOLIX C300 DC, on the other hand, offers 50% more energy with a 288Wh capacity. This extra juice is invaluable for longer trips, for users with more power-hungry devices, or for couples sharing a single power source. This increased capacity comes with a weight penalty, as it tips the scales at 3.2 kg (7.05 lbs). While still very portable, that extra kilogram is a noticeable difference in a backpack.
Performance and Port Selection
When it's time to plug in, both units offer a versatile array of DC outputs, but with one crucial distinction. Both feature a 120W car socket and two 12W USB-A ports, perfect for legacy devices and various 12V accessories.
The key performance differentiator is the USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port.
- 🟨 The SOLIX C200 DC is equipped with a 60W USB-C PD port. This is powerful enough to fast-charge any smartphone, tablet, or drone, and can even power some smaller USB-C laptops like a MacBook Air.
- 🟦 The SOLIX C300 DC boasts a much more powerful 100W USB-C PD port. This upgrade is significant, as it can charge a wider range of demanding laptops, including many MacBook Pro models, at nearly full speed. This makes the 🟦 C300 DC a more viable option for digital nomads or anyone needing to power a professional-grade laptop in the field.
This 100W port also allows the 🟦 C300 DC to recharge itself faster than its smaller sibling when using a compatible 100W wall adapter. Both units can also be recharged via solar panels with a maximum input of 60W.
Technical Specifications
For a clear side-by-side comparison, here are the key specifications for both models.
| Feature | 🟨 Anker SOLIX C200 DC | 🟦 Anker SOLIX C300 DC |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 192Wh | 288Wh |
| Battery Chemistry | LFP (LiFePO4) | LFP (LiFePO4) |
| Lifespan | 3,000+ Cycles to 80% | 3,000+ Cycles to 80% |
| Ports | 1x 60W USB-C PD | 1x 100W USB-C PD |
| 2x 12W USB-A | 2x 12W USB-A | |
| 1x 120W Car Socket | 1x 120W Car Socket | |
| Max Input | 60W (USB-C or Solar) | 100W (USB-C), 60W (Solar) |
| Weight | 2.2 kg (4.85 lbs) | 3.2 kg (7.05 lbs) |
| Dimensions (cm) | 21.6 x 11.8 x 17.5 cm | 21.6 x 14.8 x 18.5 cm |
| Dimensions (in) | 8.5 x 4.6 x 6.9 in | 8.5 x 5.8 x 7.3 in |
| Special Feature | Built-in Ambient Light | Built-in Ambient Light |
Real-World Use Case: Who Should Buy Which?
Choosing between them is simple when you define your adventure.
🎒 Choose the 🟨 Anker SOLIX C200 DC if: You are an ultralight backpacker, a day-hiker, or a festival-goer who prioritizes minimizing pack weight above all else. Its capacity is ample for keeping your phone, GPS device, and maybe a camera charged for a weekend. The weight savings are significant and will be appreciated on long treks.
🏕️ Choose the 🟦 Anker SOLIX C300 DC if: You are a car camper, weekend adventurer, or a remote worker who needs more power without the bulk of an AC station. The extra 96Wh of capacity provides a welcome buffer for longer trips or more devices, and the 100W USB-C port is a game-changer if you need to power a modern laptop.
In summary, the choice is clear: the Anker SOLIX C200 DC is for those who count every gram, while the Anker SOLIX C300 DC is for those who value extra power and versatility. Here at BIKMAN TECH, we believe you can't go wrong with either, as long as you pick the one that aligns with your adventure style.
We hope this detailed comparison helps you make an informed decision! Which one would you pack for your next trip? Let us know in the comments below! Ready to power up your adventure? Click the link below to find the best deals on these Anker SOLIX power stations.
