PICTURE THIS: A powerful blizzard sweeps in, knocking out the power grid. Amid this chilly chaos, having a reliable backup power source will allow you to continue running critical medical devices and space heaters. That’s why we’re so keen on recommending a portable power station because it always behooves us to be prepared in this day and age. And we found just the thing: Right now, you can save 30 percent on the Goal Zero Yeti 3000X Portable Power Station at Amazon.
The portable power station has a 3,032-watt-hour (Wh) battery and 2,000-watt AC inverter (3,500), enough to juice major appliances and electronics, according to Test Editor Bradley Ford, who picked the Yeti 3000X as the best solar-powered portable power station. During his testing, it powered a full-size fridge, a 60-watt light, and a radio for 38 hours. Ford also recharged his laptop and iPhone during that time, making it an excellent option for working remotely.
When the Yeti 3000X does run out of battery, a wall outlet can recharge it in just under 13 hours, according to Ford. If a wall outlet isn’t available (they tend to be hard to find when you’re off the grid), you can connect the power station to one of Goal Zero’s solar panels. Goal Zero says you can chain together multiple solar panels to recharge the power station more quickly. Meanwhile, the brand offers a home integration kit, allowing you to use the Yeti 3000X as an always-on backup solution.
In addition to two 120-volt AC inverters, the Yeti 3000X features multiple USB ports (two USB-C and two USB-A) and a 12-volt carport. While it weighs a beefy 78 pounds, the power station has a wheeled frame, making it easy to transport around your home, campground, or job site.
The Yeti 3000X, as well as similar portable power stations, have emerged as dependable substitutes for conventional gas-powered generators. The most significant benefits include the ability to operate silently and produce zero emissions, so you can safely use them indoors. At 30 percent off, this deal is one you should take advantage of if you live in an area prone to power outages — or anywhere that storm season often frequents.
Shop the Goal Zero Yeti 3000X Portable Power Station
Brandon Russell is a freelance writer covering gear and technology. He started his journey as a news writer at a small newspaper and later began reviewing smartphones, movies, and video games. In his free time, he enjoys the slower, more intentional experience of using a 35mm film camera and making short videos about movies he grew up watching.
Brad Ford has spent most of his life using tools to fix, build, or make things. Growing up he worked on a farm, where he learned to weld, repair, and paint equipment. From the farm he went to work at a classic car dealer, repairing and servicing Rolls Royces, Bentleys, and Jaguars. Today, when he’s not testing tools or writing for Popular Mechanics, he’s busy keeping up with the projects at his old farmhouse in eastern Pennsylvania.
