Bluetti AC50B: A lightweight yet mighty portable power solution
Power Bluetti Ac50b Pictures: Station Bluetti 448wh 700w,
Portable power stations have become a staple for campers, tech enthusiasts, and even households preparing for power outages. I’ve spent a month with the Bluetti AC50B, testing its capabilities in real-world scenarios. With a 448Wh LiFePO4 battery, 700W inverter, 200W solar charging, and a weight of just 6.7kg, this compact powerhouse is versatile.
The Bluetti AC50B is impressively compact and lightweight. Its dimensions resemble a small cube, making it easy to carry around, especially with its sturdy built-in handle. At just 6.7kg, it’s one of its class's most portable power stations.
Bluetti has gone the extra mile with its double-layer casing, providing enhanced drop resistance and durability. Unlike some plasticky competitors, this unit feels robust, giving confidence that it can withstand the rigours of outdoor use.
The AC50B offers an impressive variety of input and output options. It includes a DC/solar input that supports 12–28V up to a maximum of 200W, alongside a cigarette lighter port for additional versatility. The middle section houses USB ports, with two 65W USB-C options and a 15W USB-A output, catering to a variety of modern devices. The unit is equipped with one pure sine wave 240V AC outlet for larger appliances, capable of handling up to 700W.
The display is a bright and easy-to-read LCD that provides real-time data, including input/output wattage, battery percentage, and estimated runtime. Even in bright outdoor conditions, the screen remains legible, which is a big plus for outdoor users.
The AC50B’s UL-certified LiFePO4 battery is built to last. It offers over 3,000 charge cycles while retaining 80% capacity, which translates to an impressive lifespan of 10–15 years with regular use.
In testing, the 700W inverter performed well, simultaneously powering a dehumidifier, a MacBook Pro, a smartphone, and a 42-inch OLED TV. For context, it easily handled the dehumidifier, which consumed 250W, and the AC50B estimated it could run at that rate for 1.7 hours.
While its 700W inverter might not be ideal for heavy-duty appliances, it’s more than sufficient for most household or camping needs. Including a “Power Lifting Mode” allows the AC50B to handle resistive loads up to 1,000W, offering flexibility for occasional use of items like coffee makers or small heaters.
The AC50B supports multiple charging methods, making it adaptable to various situations. It charges quickly via AC power, reaching 80% in just 45 minutes with its turbo mode. It supports up to 200W of solar input for off-grid scenarios, which is ideal for extending its runtime. Additionally, its UPS function ensures critical devices stay powered during outages, automatically switching to battery power when the mains fail.
The 448Wh battery, while sufficient for small-scale use, may not last long for power-hungry devices unless paired with the optional B80 expansion battery. While the 65W USB-C ports are convenient, they might not meet the demands of high-powered laptops.
The Bluetti AC50B strikes a fine balance between portability, performance, and durability. Its lightweight design, robust build, and versatile features make it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts and light home backup use. Highly recommended.
€329 Bluetti