For users who require more than basic portable power but don’t need massive solar generators, mid-range models like the Anker 535 vs Jackery Explorer 500 deliver an ideal balance of capacity, versatility, and portability. These two portable power stations offer practical energy solutions for extended camping trips, power outages, travel, and remote work applications. Both devices come from respected brands known for their build quality and reliability—but their differences in battery chemistry, port selection, charging speed, and output capacity determine which one is best suited for different user needs.
This in-depth comparison explores all the critical factors in performance, usability, and durability to help users identify the power station that offers the best value and real-world utility.
Contents
Differences Anker 535 vs Jackery Explorer 500
Below is a summary of the specifications:
Battery Capacity, Expandability, and Lifespan
Both the Anker 535 PowerHouse and the Jackery Explorer 500 come equipped with a battery capacity in the 500Wh class. The Jackery edges slightly higher at 518Wh, while the Anker stands at 512Wh—a difference too small to impact typical use cases significantly.
However, battery chemistry is where the Anker 535 takes a decisive lead. It features LiFePO₄ (LFP) cells, delivering over 3,000 charge cycles to 80% of original capacity. This chemistry is not only safer under high temperatures but is also more stable and longer-lasting than Jackery’s NMC battery, which only guarantees 500 cycles to 80%. For users who plan to charge and discharge their units frequently, the longevity of the Anker’s battery is a clear advantage.
Neither model supports external battery expansion, so users must consider how long the integrated battery will last in real-world usage over years of operation.
Winner: Anker 535 PowerHouse
Its LFP chemistry and 3,000+ cycle lifespan make it a much better choice for long-term use and heavy-duty users.
Power Output and Appliance Compatibility
Both power stations deliver 500W of continuous AC power, which allows them to support mid-sized appliances such as CPAP machines, laptops, fans, electric blankets, and LED projectors. However, the Jackery Explorer 500 has a higher surge capacity of 1,000W, which is especially useful when powering devices with motor-driven startup spikes, such as mini fridges or small pumps.
The Anker 535 has a 750W surge output, which is solid but not as forgiving for high-draw startups. Nonetheless, it includes four AC outlets, compared to only one AC outlet on the Jackery Explorer 500. This is a major advantage for users wanting to power multiple AC appliances simultaneously without needing external power strips.
The Anker also includes voltage regulation circuitry that maintains stable output for sensitive devices.
Winner: Anker 535 PowerHouse
Despite a lower surge capacity, the four AC outlets and consistently stable output give Anker the edge in functional device compatibility and flexibility.
Charging Speed and Input Options
The Anker 535 features 120W AC input, allowing it to fully recharge in approximately 4.5 hours—a significant improvement over the Jackery Explorer 500, which only supports 85W AC input, resulting in a charging time of around 7.5 hours. For users who require quick turnaround between uses or operate in unpredictable environments, faster charging can be critical.
Both models include MPPT-enabled solar input. The Anker supports up to 120W solar input, while Jackery supports 100W. These values translate into charge times of 5–6 hours in ideal sunlight with appropriately sized panels.
Both support 12V car input, though neither supports 24V fast DC charging.
Winner: Anker 535 PowerHouse
Faster AC and solar charging speeds make it more efficient for users who need to quickly restore battery life during limited power windows.
Portability and Physical Design
The Jackery Explorer 500 weighs 6.4 kg, significantly lighter than the Anker 535, which comes in at 7.6 kg. For users who prioritize ease of transport—especially solo travelers or those packing light—the lighter Jackery may be more suitable.
Physically, the Jackery uses a wider and flatter chassis, while the Anker is more boxy and vertically aligned. Both include a top handle for easy carrying, but the Jackery’s slimmer design may better fit into vehicle compartments or storage drawers.
From a durability standpoint, both models feature solid casing with impact resistance suitable for general outdoor use.
Winner: Jackery Explorer 500
Lighter and more compact, it offers better portability for those constantly on the move.
Smart Features and Display Interface
Neither the Anker 535 nor the Jackery Explorer 500 includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or mobile app support. These models are designed for users who prefer physical control and simple LCD display interfaces.
The Anker 535 features a high-contrast screen that displays input/output wattage, remaining battery percentage, and estimated runtime. The Jackery Explorer 500 also includes a basic LCD panel, but it is less detailed and harder to read in direct sunlight compared to the Anker’s brighter and clearer screen.
Winner: Anker 535 PowerHouse
While both are simple to use, Anker’s display is more refined and informative for monitoring power flow.
Ports and Output Variety
The Anker 535 PowerHouse is significantly more versatile in terms of port selection. It includes four AC outlets, three USB-A ports, one USB-C PD port (60W), and one 12V car port.
The Jackery Explorer 500 is limited to one AC outlet, three USB-A ports, and a 12V car port—and does not include USB-C, which is a major drawback in today’s mobile device ecosystem. Without USB-C, users must rely on adapters or chargers for powering modern tablets, cameras, drones, and laptops.
The USB-C PD port on the Anker 535 can charge laptops such as the MacBook Pro, Dell XPS, and even Nintendo Switch without additional AC adapters.
Winner: Anker 535 PowerHouse
The inclusion of USB-C and multiple AC ports makes it far more adaptable to modern device requirements.
Quick Rundown Of Anker 535
Quick Rundown Of Jackery Explorer 500
Conclusion
Choose the Jackery Explorer 500 if your top priority is lightweight portability and high surge capacity, and your usage is occasional rather than daily. It’s a dependable model for users who want to power a small fridge, charge phones, or operate emergency devices during outages—but don’t need frequent recharging or USB-C support.
Choose the Anker 535 PowerHouse if you need a longer-lasting battery, faster charging, more ports, and better modern device compatibility. It’s the better choice for people who frequently use their power station in mobile offices, weekend camping, or off-grid applications where reliability and performance matter.
Overall Winner: Anker 535 PowerHouse
Thanks to its LiFePO₄ battery, faster recharging, USB-C support, and multiple AC outlets, the Anker 535 is a far more versatile and future-proof solution for mid-range portable power. While the Jackery remains a lightweight classic, the Anker 535 dominates in power station longevity, functionality, and flexibility.