Anker SOLIX C300 vs EcoFlow RIVER 2
We compare the Anker SOLIX C300 and the EcoFlow RIVER 2 across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.
At a glance
| Anker SOLIX C300 | EcoFlow RIVER 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 9.6/10 | 8.4/10 |
| Best for | Phones, laptops and light camping use | Phones, laptops and light camping use |
| Not ideal for | Running fridges or power tools | Running fridges or power tools |
| Brand | Anker | EcoFlow |
Capacity and What It Powers
Anker SOLIX C300
With a 288Wh LiFePO4 battery, this portable power station (model A1722) is designed for common electronics rather than heavy mains appliances all day. It can supply up to 300W rated power, with a 600W surge peak, so short starting loads may be possible, whereas continuous high-draw devices may drain the battery quickly. This makes it suitable for phones, tablets, laptops, small fans and other travel gear where power demand is spread across the day. For longer sessions, pairing the Anker with a 100W solar panel can help maintain charge, depending on conditions.
EcoFlow RIVER 2
With a 256Wh capacity, this portable power station is best viewed as a compact power bank for short to medium run times, rather than a whole-home backup. Its 600W rated output indicates it is designed to power several critical appliances at once, subject to the combined load staying within its rated limit. For longer sessions, devices with lower power draw are the practical choice, such as phones, laptops and small electronics. The EcoFlow price context is closely linked to this capacity limit, because the available stored energy determines how long power lasts. Charging is possible, but capacity remains the controlling factor for runtime.
Output and Ports
Anker SOLIX C300
Output on the portable power station (model A1722) is rated at 300W, and it supports a 600W surge peak for short bursts. The ports shape day-to-day versatility. The unit includes 2x AC outlets rated at 300W, a 120W car socket, two USB-C outputs rated up to 140W, plus a 15W USB-C and a 12W USB-A. For mixed charging, devices can share power, though peak demand may still reduce runtime.
EcoFlow RIVER 2
RIVER 2's stored 256Wh capacity sets how long power lasts, but its output and ports determine what can actually be connected during that time. An ecoflow portable power station review credits the unit with up to 600W rated output and says it can power up to five essential appliances at once. It also includes a 300W AC outlet and USB-C, plus other unspecified connectors. For buyers comparing listings like The portable power station on Amazon UK, matching device plugs to the available port types is the practical check before relying on the 3.5kg power station.
Recharging and Solar
Anker SOLIX C300
Recharging the Anker (A1722) is designed for several common scenarios, so the charging method can be matched to where the unit is being used. In the portable power station experience, it supports fast wall charging to reach 80% in about 50 minutes. It can also be topped up via a car socket, or through the PD 3.1 USB-C port, although the timing depends on the charging source. For solar use, the Anker SOLIX C300 solar generator approach supports up to 100 W input and works best with the Anker W solar panel. It is not compatible with SOLIX PS30 or other 5 V~3 A USB-C solar panels.
EcoFlow RIVER 2
Charging and solar use determine how quickly the EcoFlow can be topped up for off-grid days, and how practical it is when mains power or sun are limited. In EcoFlow RIVER 2 2026 reviews, mains charging is cited as fastest, reaching full in about 1 hour, so short breaks can restore power. For solar use, the portable power station supports up to 110 W solar input, and the manufacturer states recharge in as fast as 3 hours. Slow or intermittent sunlight can extend that time, and cloudy days may require mains.
Battery Type and Lifespan
Anker SOLIX C300
Built around a LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) battery, the portable power station (A1722) is designed for long service life rather than short-term peak output. The pack is rated for 3,000+ cycles, and the manufacturer also claims 10 years of power. The Anker pros and cons primarily come down to durability versus gradual capacity wear over repeated charging. For day-to-day recharging, it can be topped up via wall, car, or PD 3.1 USB-C, which helps users manage cycle counts.
EcoFlow RIVER 2
The portable power station's RIVER 2 uses LiFePO4 (LFP) battery cells. That mainly affects how long the unit can be used before capacity drops. The EcoFlow RIVER 2 states it can be charged and used 3000+ times before reaching 80%, supported by advanced BMS protection monitoring voltage, current and temperature. This underpins long-term durability for an ecoflow power station setup in off-grid use. In the EcoFlow pros and cons balance, the standout benefit is lifespan and recharge endurance, while the main drawback is that, like all batteries, usable capacity will eventually decline over the years.
Portability and Build
Anker SOLIX C300
Even with its powerful 300 W class output, the portable power station (A1722) is built to remain transport-friendly. It weighs 4.1 kg and measures 16.4 x 16.1 x 24 cm (L x W x H), helping it fit in car boots and travel bags. At the same time, the 4.1 kg weight is still awkward for one-handed carrying. Build and handling are travel-oriented, with impact resistance and quiet operation rated at 25 dB at 3.3 ft. Carrying uses included support points for straps.
EcoFlow RIVER 2
With a total weight of about 3.5 kilograms, the portable power station is designed for easy movement between home, a car, and outdoor spots, with a built-in handle for carry-and-go use. Its compact dimensions of 21.4 x 14.2 x 24.5 cm (L x W x H) help it fit in tighter spaces, such as boots or storage boxes, making it suitable for portable power station use during camping. Frequent carrying through stairs can still make the bulk noticeable, even though picking it up, transporting it, and setting it down is straightforward.
Who Is This Power Station For?
Anker SOLIX C300
Who is this portable power station (A1722) aimed at, and where does it make the most sense to use it? It is designed for people who want a compact, lightweight backup, or a travel-ready power bank for everyday devices. With a 288Wh capacity and up to 300W AC output (600W surge), it is suited to running phones, laptops, small lights and some small appliances, particularly for short trips and outings where portability matters. It also fits the use case behind searches such as "best portable power station uk", focusing on convenient, on-the-go charging.
EcoFlow RIVER 2
Who is the EcoFlow for in the UK 2026? It is aimed at people who want a lightweight 3.5 kg, 256 Wh portable power source for short trips, garden use, or backup during outages, with up to 600 W rated output for critical devices. It also suits off-grid campers who want solar charging, as it supports up to 110 W solar input, which can recharge in as fast as 3 hours. The portable power station is a good match for buyers prioritising quick solar recharging and easy portability, rather than whole-home backup needs.
Anker SOLIX C300: pros
- 288Wh capacity
- 300W rated output (600W surge peak)
- Long-life LiFePO4 battery
- Solar-ready (up to 100W solar input)
Cons
- Solar panel usually sold separately
- Not a substitute for whole-home backup
EcoFlow RIVER 2: pros
- 256Wh capacity
- 600W rated output
- Long-life LiFePO4 battery
- Solar-ready (up to 110W solar input)
Cons
- Solar panel usually sold separately
- Not a substitute for whole-home backup
Our verdict
Our pick is the Anker SOLIX C300 (our score 9.6/10) - A practical portable power station with 288Wh capacity and long-life LiFePO4 cells, best matched to the device wattages and runtime you actually need. The EcoFlow RIVER 2 is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.