
In fact, you can actually combine two of these for a rapid charge much like a rapid charger for electric vehicles. The fourth method is to use the PD USB port to receive power rather than just send it. Connecting a SolarSaga panel is the third way to recharge the battery in the Explorer 300 (more on that in a moment). a “cigarette lighter” in a vehicle), and the charging adapter for that is included as well. Secondly, you do have the option of charging from a 12V source (i.e. The first is the aforementioned AC adapter, which is included in the kit. On that note: you actually have four different ways to charge the Explorer 300. I find this interesting in both directions, as while the power coming in from a standard source (like AC power) is a constant (it registers as 77W), the power from a source like the solar panel is going to vary widely depending on the conditions. It gives a fairly accurate readout of power remaining (to a percentage point), and, interestingly, also reads out both the power flowing in and/or the power flowing out. There is small LCD screen with a quality readout (and which can be backlit by pressing the “Display” button next to it). The front of the Explorer 300 was cleanly laid out with clear labelling for the various ports where power flows either in or out of the Explorer 300. It’s often those little details that really make the difference in the “joy” of using a product.

The carrying handles were comfortable and the layout was clear and instantly easy to use. I noted positive design elements like rubberized feet on the bottom of the Explorer 300 that will keep it from banging on surfaces and cleverly designed magnetic clasps on the solar panel that allow it to fold up instantly without any need for additional steps with clasps. Engineered plastics, but with rounded edges that won’t knock on things or scuff easily. My first impressions of the Jackery products were positive. They chose to send me the Explorer 300 along with the SolarSaga 100W portable solar panel combination pictured above.

The possibilities seemed endless, so I said “yes” to reviewing some of their products. And then the potential of running lights or strobes for outdoors sets or photoshoots. I began to think about the potential for photographers who need remote power for recharging their cameras, laptops, phones, or accessories. Such was the case when Jackery, a company that specializes in remote power options like powerful battery systems and portable solar panels reached out to me. Every now and then, though, the product pitch strikes my interest. In most cases I simply respond with a kind, “No thank you” and explain that either the product is not a good fit with my audience or that I’m simply too busy to add it to my review schedule. As a gear reviewer with a sizable following, I’ve become accustomed to the daily routine of being pitched new products by companies from around the world.
