The Solar Item: Sunforce Products 22007 Solar Charger for USB Devices
The Sunforce Products 22007 Solar Charger for USB Devices is a direct competitor of the Goal Zero Nomad 7 Solar Panel (review of that can be read here). It is designed to provide charging power for small personal devices that are usually charged using a USB port or wall adapter like cellphones, GPS devices, cameras, mp3 players, etc.
Best Uses
As a direct competitor to the Goal Zero Nomad 7 Solar Panel, the Sunforce Products 22007 Solar Charger for USB Devices has definite similarities, but also some big differences . . . most notably the price.
Just like the Nomad 7, the Sunforce Products 22007 Solar Charger for USB Devices is for your small personal devices like cellphones or other tech that runs on 12V of power. Much like the Nomad 7, it is small and is very good for use in emergencies or for those with an active lifestyle and want to take it camping or hiking.
It’s going to take care of your devices and it is cheaper than the Nomad 7, but more on that later.
Specifications
Features:
- Charges USB or 12 volts powered devices
- Charges smartphones, cell phones, digital cameras, GPS systems and more
- Perfect for traveling, hiking, camping, emergency situations and a variety of outdoor activities
- Comes equipped with grommets for easy travel and storage
Other Details:
- 7.1”x1.6”x5.9”
- 11.4 Ounces
Price
The Sunforce Products 22007 Solar Charger for USB Devices is really on the cheap end and lists at $49.99, but you can find it for as little as $27.00 on Amazon.com.
Reviews of Sunforce Products 22007 Solar Charger for USB Devices
The Good
In addition to the price, there are a number of things that the reviewers of the Sunforce Products 22007 Solar Charger for USB Devices love. The most notable is that it charges phones and small devices just fine and, according to some, it even puts a better charge than the Nomad 7. It’s probably the difference of a few minutes to an hour for a full charge, but that’s a difference that might matter. It also charges quickly on its own without comparison.
It is also light weight and very portable. It is durably constructed and most reviewers find that it is perfect for camping and hiking. The outside casing has several grommets (rings made out of fabric) that allows people to attach the Sunforce Products 22007 Solar Charger for USB Devices to many different spots like backpacks or tents.
Bad
So, there are a few complaints of the Sunforce Products 22007 Solar Charger for USB Devices of which I am aware. First, there are some that have issues with this unit getting wet. The company advertises that it is weatherproof, but some note that this is not the case.
It is also necessary to put this in direct sunlight as it can get a bit temperamental even as clouds move over the spot. In addition, some have noted that while the unit itself is in direct sunlight, you don’t want to put your phones in the sunlight with it as they will overheat.
Other complaints include the fact that the USB input is very close the zipper which makes for an inconvenient situation when it’s plugged in. Also, the car charger is permanently attached and cannot be removed which adds some bulk to the unit as a whole.
One reviewer noted that the unit works best when it is absolutely still and in the sunlight. It will work if you strap it on your best hiking backpack, but it is certainly not ideal.
Recommendation
For the price, and according to the reviews, the Sunforce Products 22007 Solar Charger for USB Devices is a perfectly worthy device that is going to get you what you need out of a solar charger. You can’t complain about that!