Skip to main content

Disclosure: We may earn a commission from Amazon links on this page. This helps support our independent testing.

WattsGeek
Back to Reviews

Anker SOLIX F3800vsJackery Explorer 500

The Jackery Explorer 500 ($299) and Anker SOLIX F3800 ($1,898.99) sit in different price brackets, with a $1,599.99 gap between them. Is the Anker SOLIX F3800's 3,840Wh capacity and 6,000W output worth the premium over the Jackery Explorer 500's 518Wh/500W? We compare every spec below.

Anker SOLIX F3800

Anker SOLIX F3800

Anker

$1,898.99

Buy on Amazon
Jackery Explorer 500

Jackery Explorer 500

Jackery

$299

Buy on Amazon

Specifications Comparison

Capacity
3,840 Wh
518 Wh
Continuous Output
6,000 W
500 W
Surge Power
9,000 W
1,000 W
Battery Type
LiFePO4
Li-ion
Cycle Life
3,000 cycles
500 cycles
Charge Time
1.5 hours
7.5 hours
Weight
132 lbs
13.3 lbs
Dimensions
23.3 x 13.4 x 16.3 in
11.8 x 7.6 x 9.2 in
Price
$1,898.99
$299
Rating
4.2/5
4.6/5

Key Differences Explained

Battery Capacity

The Anker SOLIX F3800 packs 3,840Wh — 7.4x the Jackery Explorer 500's 518Wh. That extra 3,322Wh means significantly longer runtime for appliances like mini-fridges, CPAP machines, or power tools.

Output Power

With 6,000W continuous output, the Anker SOLIX F3800 can handle heavier loads than the Jackery Explorer 500's 500W. This matters for high-draw appliances like microwaves, hair dryers, or power tools that demand consistent wattage.

Battery Technology

The Anker SOLIX F3800 uses LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) chemistry, which offers superior thermal stability and typically 3,000+ charge cycles. The Jackery Explorer 500 uses Li-ion, which may offer higher energy density but typically fewer total cycles. For daily use, LiFePO4 delivers better long-term value.

Cost per Watt-Hour

At $0.49/Wh, the Anker SOLIX F3800 offers 14% better value per watt-hour than the Jackery Explorer 500 ($0.58/Wh). This metric helps you understand the raw cost of stored energy, regardless of other features.

Portability

At 13.3 lbs, the Jackery Explorer 500 is 118.7 lbs lighter than the Anker SOLIX F3800 (132 lbs). For camping, tailgating, or emergency kits where you need to carry your power station, that weight difference adds up quickly.

The Bottom Line

The Anker SOLIX F3800 wins 4 out of 7 comparison categories against the Jackery Explorer 500's 3. It stands out with 3,840Wh capacity and 6,000W output at $1,898.99. However, the Jackery Explorer 500 may still be the better choice if budget is your top priority.

Choose Anker SOLIX F3800 if...

  • You need maximum battery capacity — 3,840Wh gives you 641% more runtime than the Jackery Explorer 500
  • You need to power high-wattage appliances up to 6,000W
  • You want the safest, longest-lasting LiFePO4 battery chemistry
  • Long-term durability is important — 3,000 cycle lifespan
Read Full Review

Choose Jackery Explorer 500 if...

  • Budget is a priority — save $1,599.99 compared to the Anker SOLIX F3800
  • Portability matters — at 13.3 lbs, it's 118.7 lbs lighter
Read Full Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Anker SOLIX F3800 or Jackery Explorer 500?▼
It depends on your needs. The Anker SOLIX F3800 offers 3,840Wh capacity with 6,000W output at around $1,898.99. The Jackery Explorer 500 provides 518Wh and 500W for about $299. Choose the Anker SOLIX F3800 for more capacity, or the Jackery Explorer 500 for better value.
Can the Anker SOLIX F3800 or Jackery Explorer 500 power a refrigerator?▼
A typical residential refrigerator draws 100-400W running and 1,200W surge. The Anker SOLIX F3800 (6,000W continuous, 9,000W surge) can handle most fridges. The Jackery Explorer 500 (500W, 1,000W surge) can handle most fridges.
Is LiFePO4 or Li-ion better for a portable power station?▼
LiFePO4 batteries typically last 3,000+ cycles, are more thermally stable, and safer, but are heavier. Li-ion (NMC) batteries are lighter and more energy-dense but typically last 500-800 cycles. For daily use and longevity, LiFePO4 is generally preferred. For weight-sensitive applications like backpacking, Li-ion may be more practical.
How long will the Anker SOLIX F3800 and Jackery Explorer 500 last on a single charge?▼
Runtime depends on your load. At 100W draw: the Anker SOLIX F3800 (3,840Wh) runs approximately 32.6 hours, while the Jackery Explorer 500 (518Wh) runs about 4.4 hours. At 500W draw: 6.5 hours vs 0.9 hours respectively (accounting for ~85% inverter efficiency).

Related Comparisons

Anker SOLIX F3800 vs EcoFlow RIVER 2Jackery Explorer 500 vs EcoFlow RIVER 2Anker SOLIX F3800 vs Jackery Explorer 300Jackery Explorer 500 vs Jackery Explorer 300Anker SOLIX F3800 vs Anker SOLIX C300Jackery Explorer 500 vs Anker SOLIX C300Anker SOLIX F3800 vs EcoFlow RIVER 2 ProJackery Explorer 500 vs EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro