Anker SOLIX C300 AC vs Anker SOLIX C800 Series
BIKMAN TECHWelcome to the BIKMAN TECH blog! If you're gearing up for a weekend camping trip, heading to a music festival, or just need a reliable backup power source, you know how crucial a portable power station can be. Today, we're diving deep into two fantastic options from a leading brand: the ultra-compact 🟨 Anker SOLIX C300 AC and the more powerful and versatile 🟦 Anker SOLIX C800 Series (C800, C800 Plus, C800X, C800X Plus). This guide will break down their key differences, helping you decide which model is the perfect fit for powering your small AC appliances and essential gadgets on the go.
- 🟨 Anker SOLIX C300 AC [Amazon]
- 🟦 Anker SOLIX C800 Series [Amazon]
At a Glance: The Core Difference
The choice between these two power stations really comes down to portability versus power.
The 🟨 C300 AC is designed for those who prioritize a lightweight and compact solution. It's the ideal entry point into the world of AC portable power, perfect for solo campers, photographers, or anyone needing to power a laptop and charge phones for a day or two.
The 🟦 C800 Series, on the other hand, is built for longer adventures, more people, or more demanding electronics. It offers significantly more capacity and output, making it suitable for running small appliances like a portable fridge, a coffee maker, or multiple devices simultaneously over a weekend.
Design and Portability: Compact vs. Capable
When it comes to carrying your power, size and weight matter. The 🟨 C300 AC is a champion of portability. Measuring just 24.9 x 16.5 x 18.5 cm (9.8 x 6.5 x 7.3 in) and weighing a mere 3.7 kg (8.2 lbs), it's incredibly easy to pack in a car or even carry in a backpack for short distances. Its integrated handle and rugged design make it a durable, grab-and-go companion.
The 🟦 C800 Series is understandably larger and heavier to accommodate its bigger battery and feature set. It comes in at approximately 37.1 x 20.5 x 25.0 cm (14.6 x 8.1 x 9.8 in) with a weight of around 10.5 kg (23.1 lbs). While heavier, it features a robust, ergonomic handle for transport. A standout design feature of the 🟦 C800 is its unique, detachable 2-in-1 camping light, which can be used as a flashlight or mounted on an included pole to illuminate your campsite—a brilliant piece of functional design.
Power and Performance: Watt's the Difference?
This is where the distinction becomes crystal clear. A power station's performance is measured by its capacity (in Watt-hours or Wh) and its power output (in Watts or W).
The 🟨 C300 AC features a 320Wh capacity and a continuous 300W AC output (with a 600W surge capability). This is perfect for keeping personal electronics topped up. You can expect to recharge a smartphone about 20 times, a drone 4-5 times, or run a laptop for several hours. It's ideal for small AC appliances like a fan or a portable projector.
The 🟦 C800 Series boasts a much larger 768Wh capacity and a powerful 1200W AC output (with a 1600W SurgePad). This is a massive leap in capability. It can handle more demanding devices like a mini-fridge for over 10 hours, a 700W coffee maker, or even some low-wattage power tools. This makes it a true campsite workhorse.
Battery Technology and Longevity
Here’s a feature both models share: top-tier battery chemistry. Both the 🟨 C300 AC and the 🟦 C800 Series use LFP (LiFePO4) batteries. This is a significant advantage over older lithium-ion technologies. LFP batteries offer a much longer lifespan, rated for over 3,000 charge cycles while retaining 80% of their original capacity. This means you can rely on these power stations for years of adventures. They are also inherently safer and more thermally stable.
Charging Speed: Back to Full Power ⚡
Anker's HyperFlash™ technology ensures you spend less time waiting and more time doing. The 🟨 C300 AC can be recharged via an AC wall outlet at up to 250W, going from 0 to 100% in just over an hour. For off-grid charging, it supports up to 100W of solar input.
The 🟦 C800 Series takes this to the next level. It can pull an incredible 1100W from a wall outlet, allowing it to charge from empty to full in under an hour (typically around 58 minutes). Its solar charging capability is also more robust, supporting up to 300W of solar input, making it far more effective for staying powered up during extended off-grid stays.
Ports and Outlets: Connecting Your Gear
The number and type of ports determine how many devices you can power at once.
The 🟨 C300 AC keeps it simple and effective for personal use:
- 1x AC Outlet
- 2x USB-C Ports (30W total output)
- 2x USB-A Ports (15W total output)
- 1x Car Socket (12V)
The 🟦 C800 Series is a veritable power hub designed for multiple users and devices:
- 5x AC Outlets
- 2x USB-C Ports (1x 100W, 1x 30W)
- 2x USB-A Ports (12W each)
- 1x Car Socket (12V)
The inclusion of five AC outlets and a high-power 100W USB-C port on the 🟦 C800 makes it significantly more versatile for group settings or for powering a complete workstation.
Technical Specifications: Head-to-Head
Here's a direct comparison of the key specifications in a table for easy reference.
| Feature | 🟨 Anker SOLIX C300 AC | 🟦 Anker SOLIX C800 Series |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 320Wh | 768Wh |
| AC Output | 300W (600W Surge) | 1200W (1600W SurgePad) |
| Battery Type | LFP (LiFePO4) | LFP (LiFePO4) |
| Lifecycle | 3,000+ Cycles to 80% | 3,000+ Cycles to 80% |
| AC Input (Charge) | 250W Max (HyperFlash™) | 1100W Max (HyperFlash™) |
| Solar Input | 100W Max | 300W Max |
| AC Outlets | 1 | 5 |
| USB-C Ports | 2 (30W Shared) | 2 (1x 100W, 1x 30W) |
| USB-A Ports | 2 (15W Shared) | 2 (12W each) |
| Weight | 3.7 kg (8.2 lbs) | 10.5 kg (23.1 lbs) |
| Dimensions | 24.9x16.5x18.5 cm | 37.1x20.5x25.0 cm |
| (9.8x6.5x7.3 in) | (14.6x8.1x9.8 in) | |
| Unique Feature | Extreme Portability | Detachable Camping Light |
Conclusion: Which SOLIX Should You Choose?
Ultimately, both the 🟨 Anker SOLIX C300 AC and the 🟦 Anker SOLIX C800 Series are excellent power stations backed by durable LFP battery technology and fast charging. The right choice depends entirely on your needs.
Choose the 🟨 Anker SOLIX C300 AC if:
- You prioritize light weight and portability above all else.
- You are a solo traveler or need power for just yourself and a partner.
- Your needs are limited to charging phones, drones, cameras, and laptops.
Choose the 🟦 Anker SOLIX C800 Series if:
- You need to power more demanding AC appliances like a portable fridge, blender, or coffee maker.
- You're camping with family or a group and need to charge many devices at once.
- You want longer off-grid autonomy and faster solar recharging.
- The clever built-in camping light is a feature you'd love to have.
We hope this detailed comparison from BIKMAN TECH helps you make an informed decision. Which power station fits your adventure style? Let us know in the comments below! Ready to power up? Click through to find the best deal on your perfect Anker SOLIX power station today.
