Pros
- High performance and low noise level
- Informative status display
- Long-life LiFePo4 batteries
- USV function
Cons
- High price
- Unprotected connections
- Heavy weight
LiFePo4 batteries with 1229 Wh, 230 V outputs with 1500 W, fast charging and UPS function – the Powerhouse 757 solar generator from Anker offers a successful overall package at an upmarket price.
Power stations with integrated solar generators and 230 V sockets enable the power supply of consumers independently and far away from the mains. Thanks to high performance and numerous connection options, including 12 V connections and USB ports, the devices are suitable for hobby, work or even as an emergency power supply. The batteries can usually be recharged via a mains adapter at the mains socket, via a 12 V car connection or with the help of a solar module. In this way, the devices offer incredible flexibility and promise independence.
This test of a power station belongs to our Outdoor and Camping theme worlds. Here we show high-tech gadgets for hiking, binoculars with rangefinders and explain what you should look out for when buying a torch.
This time it’s about the Portable Powerstation 757 by Anker. The manufacturer is a well-known electronic accessories supplier that has been able to convince us repeatedly in the past with its decent price-performance ratio. This test shows whether Anker’s most potent power station can convince.
Design and features
The design of the black and silver Anker Powerhouse 757 differs from the visual appearance of the more petite models Powerhouse 521 and Powerhouse 535, and we like it. Anker’s top model is still mobile, with dimensions of 463 mm x 288 mm x 237 mm and a weight of around 20 kg, but the Powerhouse 757 is clearly too bulky for bicycle tours or hikes. But the data speak for themselves: up to 1500 W output power per 230 V socket and a capacity of 1229 Wh.
The rectangular, rounded housing has two handles attached to the side of the top edge. This facilitates transport and provides a flat surface. Other objects can be stacked on top of it, which we like.
Anker has placed all power outputs, buttons, lamps and status displays on the front. On the back, behind a small flap, there is only the fuse, the power supply socket and the input for photovoltaics or the car power supply via XT60 plug.
At the very top of the front, an LED running across the entire width of the enclosure is mounted as emergency lighting. Its power button is placed right below it. In the centre, we find a small reset button, the power-save switch, the large and bright status display and the display button. Below that, on the left, are the 12V socket with up to 120W power and its power button, six USB ports and the two 230V sockets, including the on-off switch. What catches our eye positively are the high-quality metal buttons for 12V and 230V outputs. It’s a pity that Anker doesn’t also use these for the lamp and display. It is also a pity that Anker only gave the 12 V connection a protective cap. We would much prefer covered sockets for outdoor use. But we have noticed this point of criticism with all power stations so far – the only positive exception here is the Bluetti Poweroak AC200 Max.
The bright and large status display of the Powerhouse 757 looks good and leaves a positive impression. In addition to the remaining capacity in 1 per cent increments, the active outputs and the output power are displayed. The input power is also visible at a glance. This helps when aligning the photovoltaic panel(s), for example. The remaining battery life, charging time, and power-save mode is also displayed. A practical and only used extra in some models.
On the positive side, Anker uses a powerful internal power supply with a whopping 1000W for its flagship power station – similar to Ecoflow or Jackery. Other manufacturers such as Bluetti only use external power supplies. These are bulky and often so weak that charging takes between five and eight hours. We also like the high performance of the USB ports, which is sufficient even for energy-hungry consumers like our Macbook Pro. The four USB-A outputs deliver 12 W, and the two USB-C ports provide 60 W and 100 W. An additional power supply unit for a notebook, tablet or smartphone is not required.
In addition to the Powerhouse 757 and power supply cable, the scope of delivery includes manual, multiple XT60 adapters and a car plug.
Conclusion
The Anker Powerhouse 757 surprised us positively. Although the design is probably not an in-house achievement and the price is not exactly favourable, Anker has done much right here regarding features and performance. The Anker Powerhouse 757 solar generator is one of the top models on the market!
In addition to the long-life LiFePo4 batteries, the Powerstation scores with its quick-charge function via mains adapter, the practical UPS function and the powerful USB outputs. With 1229 Wh and two times 1500 W, this portable power storage unit is also suitable for more powerful consumers such as tools or some kitchen machines. The charging time via a solar panel is sufficient to provide a permanent power supply even when camping. Nevertheless, a somewhat higher permissible input power via solar would be desirable. It is also a pity that Anker does not use protective caps on the connections.
