Anker’s Solix S2000 solves two major problems with power stations: idle power draw that can drain the battery unexpectedly, and the large footprint required to hold so much energy. Impressively, it achieves this at an incredibly low starting price of just $0.29 per Wh.
Unlike most other power stations in the 2kWh range, Anker says the S2000 won’t suddenly shut down after a few days due to phantom power draw if you accidentally leave the AC output on. This is much smaller than most competing mid-range systems designed for vanlifers, job sites or home backup, where a power station can keep AC appliances like a fridge or CPAP breathing machine running after a power outage.
Anker says the S2000 draws only 6W when idle, which is much less than most power stations built around a 2kWh LFP battery. It achieves this through efficiencies derived from a technology called “OptiSave”. It’s also likely to help by choosing a less powerful 1500W inverter that converts all the stored energy into AC power.
Other 2kWh power stations from competitors like EcoFlow, Blueati and Jackery use inverters that produce more than 2400W of AC power, with idle power draw that can exceed 30W – enough to completely drain the battery in a matter of days. This compares with about two weeks for the Anker Solix S2000, but only if the 6W figure is to be believed.
Despite Anker’s smaller inverter, 1500W is enough to power most home appliances and networking gear. It will also power most of the AC appliances you carry in a camper, including coffee makers, water boilers, and small induction cooktops. The S2000 can temporarily reach 3000W to power some high-draw appliances like hair dryers. Its 2kWh battery capacity is enough to keep a large fridge/freezer combo running for more than a day during a power failure.
The other interesting thing about the Solix S2000 is its size. At 208 x 282 x 323 mm, its energy density is approximately 106Wh/L, which easily bests larger 2kWh power stations like the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max, Bluetti AC200L, or Jackery 2000 Plus. This makes the S2000 a really interesting power station for space-challenged vanlifers.
The Solix S2000 has a range of inputs and outputs, including two USB-C jacks (maximum 100W), one USB-A, and a 400W solar panel input to keep the battery charged when off the grid. I like that it has three AC jacks on the front and two on the back, so you won’t have to lug the 35.7 pound (16.2 kg) unit around too much.
Initial reviews of the American model look very promising:
The Anker Solix S2000 is launching with a deep discount for early adopters: only $579 if you preorder before June 1st – a great deal for a power station that lives up to Anker’s claims. The price will then rise to between $679.99 and $1,199.99 because manufacturers of power stations absolutely love coupons. EU pricing and shipping dates will be announced in the coming weeks.
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