With 297 watt-hours of lithium-ion phosphate battery capacity, multiple charging ports, and the ability to recharge via solar, this versatile power station aims to keep your devices running whether you’re camping off-grid or dealing with a power outage at home.
Impressive Power in a Portable Package
At just 13.7 pounds and measuring 11.3 x 7.7 x 6.7 inches, the Yeti 300 is highly portable while still offering substantial power output. It can run small appliances and recharge phones, tablets, laptops and other devices multiple times over.
The 350W pure sine wave inverter (with 600W surge capability) allows you to power AC devices, while multiple USB and 12V DC ports provide versatile charging options.
The lithium-ion phosphate (LiFePO4) battery offers 4,000 charge cycles, translating to over 10 years of regular use. This long lifespan, combined with the ability to hold a charge for 12-18 months when not in use, makes the Yeti 300 a reliable power source you can count on trip after trip or during unexpected outages.
Versatile Charging Options
One of the Yeti 300’s standout features is it’s flexible charging capabilities. It can be recharged via:
- AC wall outlet (0-100% in about 50 minutes)
- 12V car adapter
- Solar panel (up to 200W input)
The ability to recharge via solar makes this an excellent option for extended off-grid use. When paired with Goal Zero’s portable solar panels, you can create a renewable energy system to keep your devices powered indefinitely in remote locations.
Rugged Design for Outdoor Use
Goal Zero designed the Yeti 300 with durability in mind. It features:
- IPX4 water resistance rating
- Ability to withstand extreme temperatures
- Durable plastic/rubber exterior
These rugged features allow you to confidently use the Yeti 300 in a variety of outdoor conditions without worrying about damage from the elements.
Impressive Port Selection
The Yeti 300 offers an array of output ports to charge and power various devices:
| Port Type | Quantity | Output |
|---|---|---|
| AC Outlets | 2 | 350W (600W surge) |
| USB-A | 2 | 18W each |
| USB-C PD | 1 | 100W |
| USB-C | 1 | 30W |
| 12V Car Port | 1 | 12A (144W) |
| 12V 6mm Port | 1 | 10A (120W) |
This diverse selection of ports allows you to power or charge multiple devices simultaneously, from smartphones and laptops to small appliances and camping gear.
User-Friendly Interface
The Yeti 300 features an easy-to-read LCD display that shows:
- Battery percentage
- Input/output wattage
- Time to empty/full
- Active ports
This clear interface allows you to quickly assess your power situation and manage your energy usage effectively.
Real-World Performance
In practice, the Yeti 300 performs admirably for it’s size and capacity. Users report being able to charge multiple smartphones, tablets, and even laptops several times over on a single charge.
It’s particularly well-suited for weekend camping trips or short power outages, providing enough juice to keep essential devices running.
The fast charging capability is a significant advantage, allowing you to quickly top up the battery before heading out on an adventure. Many users appreciate the ability to charge the Yeti 300 in their vehicle while driving to a campsite, ensuring they arrive with a full battery.
Limitations to Consider
While the Yeti 300 is a capable power station, it’s important to understand it’s limitations:
- Not suitable for high-wattage appliances: The 350W continuous output (600W surge) means it can’t handle energy-hungry devices like hair dryers, electric heaters, or full-size refrigerators.
- Limited capacity for extended use: With 297Wh of capacity, it may not last through multiple days of heavy use without recharging.
- Solar charging can be slow: While solar charging is possible, it may take a full day of good sunlight to fully recharge the battery, depending on your solar panel setup.
- Price: The Yeti 300 is a premium product with a price tag to match.
Budget-conscious buyers may find more affordable (though often less feature-rich) choices.
Who Should Buy the Yeti 300?
The Goal Zero Yeti 300 is an excellent choice for:
- Weekend campers and outdoor enthusiasts
- Van lifers and RV owners looking for auxiliary power
- Homeowners wanting a reliable backup for small devices during outages
- Anyone needing portable power for mobile work setups
It’s combination of portability, durability, and versatile charging options makes it well-suited for these use cases.
The Verdict
The Goal Zero Yeti 300 Portable Power Station delivers on it’s promises, offering reliable, portable power in a well-designed package. It’s long lifespan, fast charging capabilities, and rugged construction make it a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking dependable backup power.
While it may be overkill for those only needing to charge a phone occasionally, and underpowered for those looking to run large appliances, it hits a sweet spot for powering small to medium devices in off-grid situations. The ability to recharge via solar adds significant versatility for extended outdoor use.
My Personal Experience with the Goal Zero Yeti 300
A Reliable Companion for Outdoor Adventures
One of the biggest advantages I noticed when using the Goal Zero Yeti 300 is it’s impressive versatility. I found that this power station can handle a wide range of devices, from charging my smartphone many times to powering my laptop for hours on end.
What really stood out to me was how it performed during a weekend camping trip.
I was able to keep all my essential devices charged, run a small LED lantern throughout the night, and even power a portable mini-fridge without any issues.
The portability of the Yeti 300 is another feature that I can’t praise enough. At just 13.7 pounds, it’s light enough to carry comfortably, yet it packs enough power to meet most of my off-grid needs. I particularly appreciate the sturdy handle, which makes it easy to transport from the car to the campsite or around the house during power outages.
Solar Charging: A Game-Changer for Extended Trips
While the Yeti 300 performs admirably on it’s own, pairing it with a solar panel truly unlocks it’s potential for longer outdoor stays. I invested in a compatible 100W solar panel, and it’s been a game-changer for multi-day camping trips.
On sunny days, I can keep the Yeti 300 topped up, ensuring a constant supply of power without needing to return to civilization.
It’s worth noting that solar charging efficiency can vary depending on weather conditions and panel positioning. In my experience, it takes about 6-8 hours of good sunlight to fully charge the Yeti 300 from empty using a 100W panel.
While this might seem slow, the ability to generate power off-grid is invaluable for extended outdoor adventures.
Performance in Various Scenarios
Camping and Outdoor Use
During camping trips, I’ve found the Yeti 300 to be more than capable of handling my power needs. It easily charges my phone, tablet, and camera batteries many times over. I’ve even used it to power a small electric cooler, which it managed for about 20 hours before needing a recharge.
Home Backup During Outages
At home, the Yeti 300 has proven it’s worth during several power outages. It kept my Wi-Fi router running, charged our phones, and powered a small fan for comfort.
While it can’t handle energy-hungry appliances like refrigerators or space heaters, it’s perfect for keeping essential electronics operational during short-term outages.
Mobile Office Setup
As someone who occasionally works remotely, I’ve found the Yeti 300 to be an excellent companion for creating a mobile office setup. It can power my laptop for an entire workday, charge my phone, and even run a small desk lamp.
The pure sine wave inverter confirms that sensitive electronics are protected, giving me peace of mind when working from unconventional locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Yeti 300 battery last?
The battery life depends on what you’re powering, but in my experience, it can charge a smartphone about 25 times, run a small LED light for over 50 hours, or power a laptop for about 5-6 hours of continuous use.
Can the Yeti 300 be used while charging?
Yes, the Yeti 300 supports pass-through charging, allowing you to use it while it’s being recharged. This feature has been particularly useful during extended power outages.
Is the Yeti 300 waterproof?
While not fully waterproof, the Yeti 300 has an IPX4 water resistance rating, which means it can withstand splashes from any direction. I’ve used it in light rain without issues, but I wouldn’t recommend exposing it to heavy downpours or submersion.
How noisy is the Yeti 300?
The Yeti 300 is virtually silent during operation. The only time you might hear a slight noise is when the cooling fan kicks in, which happens rarely and is very quiet.
Limitations to Keep in Mind
While I’ve been overwhelmingly positive about the Yeti 300, it’s important to thank it’s limitations. The 297Wh capacity, while substantial for it’s size, may not be enough for power-hungry devices or extended periods without recharging.
I’ve found that managing expectations and planning your power usage is key to getting the most out of this device.
Additionally, the price point may be a barrier for some. However, considering the build quality, versatility, and long lifespan of the LiFePO4 battery, I believe it offers good value for those who will make frequent use of it.
My Recommendation
After extensive use in various scenarios, I can confidently recommend the Goal Zero Yeti 300 to fellow outdoor enthusiasts, remote workers, and anyone looking for a reliable portable power solution. It’s combination of portability, durability, and versatile charging options makes it an excellent choice for weekend camping trips, short power outages, or creating a mobile workspace.
The ability to recharge via solar is a standout feature that extends it’s utility for off-grid adventures. While it may not be suitable for powering large appliances or for those needing massive amounts of power, it hits a sweet spot for keeping small to medium devices running in a variety of situations.
Maximizing the Goal Zero Yeti 300’s Potential
The Goal Zero Yeti 300 is a powerhouse in a compact package. At 13.7 pounds and 11.3 x 7.7 x 6.7 inches, you can easily carry it on camping trips or store it at home for emergencies.
It’s 297 watt-hour lithium-ion phosphate battery packs a punch, powering small appliances and recharging your devices multiple times.
With a 350W pure sine wave inverter (600W surge), you can run AC devices safely. The multiple USB and 12V DC ports let you charge various gadgets simultaneously.
The LiFePO4 battery boasts an impressive 4,000 charge cycles, which means you’ll get over a decade of regular use.
Even when left unused, it holds a charge for 12-18 months, making it a reliable backup power source.
Charging flexibility is a key feature of the Yeti 300. You can plug it into a wall outlet and get a full charge in about 50 minutes.
On the road?
Use the 12V car adapter. For off-grid adventures, connect it to a solar panel (up to 200W input).
This solar charging capability is particularly useful for extended outdoor stays, allowing you to create a sustainable power system in remote locations.
The Yeti 300’s durability stands out. It’s IPX4 water resistance rating means it can handle splashes from any direction.
You can use it in various weather conditions without worry.
The tough plastic and rubber exterior protects it from bumps and scrapes during transport or outdoor use.
Here’s a breakdown of the Yeti 300’s impressive port selection:
- 2 AC Outlets (350W, 600W surge)
- 2 USB-A ports (18W each)
- 1 USB-C PD port (100W)
- 1 USB-C port (30W)
- 1 12V Car Port (12A, 144W)
- 1 12V 6mm Port (10A, 120W)
This variety allows you to power or charge multiple devices at once, from phones and laptops to small appliances and camping gear.
The user-friendly LCD display shows battery percentage, input/output wattage, time to empty/full, and active ports. This clear interface helps you manage your energy usage effectively.
In real-world use, the Yeti 300 shines. You can charge several smartphones, tablets, and laptops on a single charge.
It’s perfect for weekend camping trips or short power outages, keeping your essential devices running.
The fast charging is a huge plus – you can quickly top up the battery before heading out or even charge it in your car on the way to your destination.
However, it’s important to understand the Yeti 300’s limitations. It’s not suitable for high-wattage appliances like hair dryers or full-size refrigerators due to it’s 350W continuous output (600W surge).
The 297Wh capacity might not last through multiple days of heavy use without recharging.
Solar charging, while possible, can be slow – it might take a full day of good sunlight to fully recharge, depending on your solar panel setup.
The Yeti 300 is ideal for weekend campers, van lifers, RV owners needing auxiliary power, homeowners wanting reliable backup for small devices during outages, and mobile workers. It’s combination of portability, durability, and versatile charging options makes it a versatile power solution for various scenarios.
When using the Yeti 300 for camping, you’ll find it can easily handle charging your phone, tablet, and camera batteries multiple times. It can even power a small electric cooler for about 20 hours before needing a recharge.
During home power outages, it keeps essential electronics like Wi-Fi routers running and can power small fans for comfort.
For mobile office setups, the Yeti 300 truly stands out.