The Anker Solix C1000 is a robust 1056Wh portable power station designed for heavy-duty use in home, work, and adventure scenarios. TechRadar praised its reliable Anker quality and versatile port selection, while noting the premium pricing. The newer Gen 2 model offers faster charging and increased power output but removes expandability and the integrated LED light. Reviews highlight its suitability for users needing substantial portable power with smart connectivity features, though those requiring expandable capacity or lighting should consider alternatives.
Full review
Design and Build Quality
The Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 represents a significant redesign from its predecessor, trading a bit of capacity for improved portability and performance. According to NotebookCheck's Marcus Schwarten, the Gen 2 model weighs 11.3 kg (24.9 lbs) compared to the original's 12.9 kg, making it 1.6 kg lighter while also reducing its height by 2 cm. The dimensions are 38.4 × 20.8 × 24.4 cm for the Gen 2, versus 37.6 × 20.5 × 26.7 cm for the original. Despite these changes, the unit remains robust enough to handle demanding use cases. TechRadar's Collin Probst noted the compactness and clean design, particularly appreciating how the unit can be extended with an external battery to double its capacity to 2112Wh. The build quality is consistent with Anker's reputation for durability, though the Gen 2 lacks the integrated LED light found on the original, a notable downgrade for some users.
Power Output and Port Selection
The Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 delivers 2,000W continuous AC output, up from 1,800W on the original, with a peak capacity of 3,000W. This increased power output allows it to run more demanding appliances, such as small refrigerators or power tools, which is a significant improvement over previous models. Out of the box, it includes five AC outlets, three USB-C ports (with two capable of 140W output), one USB-A, and a 12V DC car port. How-To-GEEK's Patrick Campanale emphasized the port flexibility, noting that the dual 140W USB-C ports, combined with the 12V car port and multiple AC outlets, make it suitable for powering a wide array of devices. However, the Gen 2 model has lost the ability to expand its capacity with an additional battery, a feature that was present in the original C1000. This change, while reducing overall capacity slightly from 1,056Wh to 1,024Wh, was offset by the inclusion of faster charging and more efficient power delivery.
Charging Performance and Speed
One of the standout features of the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 is its ultra-fast charging capability. The device can be charged from 0% to 100% in just 47 minutes when using the 'Ultra-Fast Charging Mode' enabled through the Anker app, according to TheSolarLab's review. This performance earned the unit a Guinness World Record for the fastest charging 1,024Wh power station. Outdoorgearlab's Kenji Mowrey noted that this rapid charging capability makes the unit ideal for emergency situations or when you need a quick top-up before a trip. The AC input rating is 1,600W, a significant increase from the original model's 1,300W, which contributes to the faster charging times. However, this fast charging mode is only available via AC input, and the solar input remains at 600W, which is standard for this class of power station. The charging speed is impressive, but users should be aware that it requires the use of the Anker app to enable the ultra-fast mode.
Real-World Performance
In practical use, the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 has proven to be a versatile and reliable power source for both home and outdoor applications. Outdoorgearlab's testing showed that the unit delivered 897Wh of usable energy, which is 85% of its advertised 1056Wh capacity, when tested in AC output mode. This performance is sufficient to power a range of appliances, including lights, a small refrigerator, and multiple devices simultaneously. TechRadar's Collin Probst highlighted its ability to run his entire home backup system during power outages, noting its reliability and ease of control via the Anker app. The unit's ability to be controlled remotely over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth adds a level of convenience that is particularly useful for managing power consumption in different environments. However, the loud fan noise was a point of criticism from Outdoorgearlab's review, which could be a drawback for users who need quiet operation in residential or office settings.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 does have some notable drawbacks. The most significant is the loss of expandability, as the Gen 2 model cannot be connected to an additional battery to increase its capacity. This is a direct downgrade from the original C1000, which allowed users to double its battery capacity to 2,112Wh. Additionally, the Gen 2 lacks the integrated LED light that was present in the original model, which some users may find useful for night-time operations or emergency situations. The loud fan noise, as noted by Outdoorgearlab, can be disruptive in quiet environments. Furthermore, while the charging speed is impressive, it requires the use of the Anker app to enable the ultra-fast mode, which may not be accessible to all users. The solar charging capability, while functional, remains at 600W, which is standard for this class of power station and may not be sufficient for users seeking rapid solar recharging.
Who It's Best For
The Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 is ideal for users who need a balance of power, portability, and fast charging in a mid-sized portable power station. It's particularly well-suited for camping trips, job site tasks, and emergency backup scenarios where the ability to quickly recharge and power multiple devices is essential. TechRadar's Collin Probst recommended it for those who need a reliable power source for home, work, and adventure use, especially those who already use Anker products and trust their quality and durability. However, it's not recommended for users who require maximum expandability or those who need a unit with integrated LED lighting. The unit's fast charging capabilities and robust output make it a strong contender for those who prioritize convenience and performance over expandability and additional features. For users seeking a more budget-friendly option, the C1000X version, available at big-box retailers, offers one extra AC outlet but lacks the Gen 2's advanced features and charging capabilities.
How It Compares to Alternatives
When compared to other portable power stations in its class, the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 holds its own. It competes directly with models like the Bluetti Elite 100 V2, which offers similar specifications including comparable battery capacity and weight, but with a slightly higher solar input. The Jackery 2000 V2, while more expensive, provides double the battery capacity and is only 10 pounds heavier, making it a better choice for users with higher power demands. However, the Anker C1000 Gen 2's ultra-fast charging capability, faster USB-C output, and improved portability make it a strong alternative for users who value quick recharging and compact design. The original C1000, while still available, is less competitive due to its slower charging and lack of expandability. For those seeking a more affordable option, the C1000X version offers a slightly different feature set but at a similar price point, though it lacks the Gen 2's advanced features and charging capabilities.
Setup and Software
The setup process for the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 is straightforward, with the Anker app providing a user-friendly interface for controlling and monitoring the power station. The pairing process with the app is described as super easy by TechRadar's Collin Probst, and the ability to control the unit remotely over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth adds a layer of convenience. The app allows users to monitor battery levels, control power output, and enable the ultra-fast charging mode. However, the need to use the app to access the fastest charging mode may be a barrier for some users who prefer simpler, plug-and-play solutions. The LCD display is bright and easy to read, even under direct sunlight, according to Outdoorgearlab's review, which is a useful feature for outdoor use. The app also provides real-time feedback on power consumption, which helps users manage their energy usage effectively. The lack of a built-in LED light, while not a major issue, is a feature that some users may miss compared to other models in the market.
Value at This Price
At a price point of around $799, the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 offers solid value for its features and performance. The fast charging, robust output, and compact design make it a compelling option for users who need a reliable power source that can be easily transported. The ability to control the unit remotely via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth adds significant value, especially for those who use it in various environments. However, the loss of expandability and integrated LED light may be a drawback for some users. The C1000X version, available at big-box retailers, offers a slightly different feature set but at a similar price point, though it lacks the Gen 2's advanced features and charging capabilities. For users who prioritize ultra-fast charging, portability, and advanced control features, the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 is a strong contender. The unit's performance and build quality justify its price, especially when compared to other models in the same category, though users should weigh the trade-offs of losing expandability against the benefits of faster charging and improved design.
Strengths
- +Excellent port selection and output options including 5 AC outlets, 3 USB-C, 1 USB-A, and vehicle socket
- +Reliable Anker quality and durability with solid build construction
- +Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote control and monitoring
- +Fast charging capability with AC charging up to 1,600W and full charge in under an hour
Watch-outs
- −No longer expandable with additional battery modules
- −Loss of integrated LED light feature in newer model
How it compares
The Anker Solix C1000 stands out with its expandability option and robust build quality, features that the EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus lacks despite its higher output capacity. Unlike the Bluetti AC70, which has a limited 1000W output, the C1000 delivers 1600W AC charging and offers more versatile port options including vehicle sockets, making it ideal for users needing both high power and expandability. However, it loses the integrated LED light feature compared to its predecessor and cannot be expanded like the EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus.
Who this is for
At a glance: Users needing expandable capacity and high power output.
Why you’d buy the Anker Solix C1000
- Excellent port selection and output options including 5 AC outlets, 3 USB-C, 1 USB-A, and vehicle socket.
- Reliable Anker quality and durability with solid build construction.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote control and monitoring.
Why you’d skip it
- No longer expandable with additional battery modules.
- Loss of integrated LED light feature in newer model.
Rating sources
Our 4.3 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
