In the rapidly evolving market of compact portable power stations, the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus vs EcoFlow River 2 represent two leading contenders. Each is engineered to deliver lightweight, reliable, and mobile energy for users who need power on the go—whether it’s for outdoor adventures, remote work setups, emergency backup, or travel gear support. While both power stations sit in the same power tier, their differences in battery technology, output performance, charging efficiency, smart functionality, and port variety reveal very distinct user experiences.
This thorough comparison evaluates every major aspect to determine which of these two compact models is the better fit for real-world users who require high performance in a small package.
Contents
Differences Jackery Explorer 300 Plus vs EcoFlow River 2
Below is a summary of the specifications:
Battery Capacity, Expandability, and Battery Lifespan
The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus features a 288Wh LFP battery, offering a modest increase in capacity over the EcoFlow River 2, which comes with a 256Wh LFP battery. While the Jackery provides more usable energy per charge, the difference is not substantial and will typically amount to only a few extra hours of runtime for light devices.
However, the EcoFlow River 2 gains a strong advantage in battery longevity, offering over 3,000 full charge cycles to 80% capacity, compared to 2,000 cycles for the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus. This means the River 2 is built for users who plan to charge and discharge their device daily for years, while the Jackery, though respectable, has a slightly shorter operational lifespan.
Both devices use LiFePO₄ chemistry, providing excellent thermal safety, longer lifespan than NMC batteries, and greater resistance to overcharging or overheating.
Neither model supports battery expansion, so what you get is a fixed-capacity solution in both cases.
Winner: EcoFlow River 2
Despite slightly lower capacity, its superior battery longevity makes it the better long-term choice for users seeking durability and value over time.
Power Output and Device Compatibility
Both the Explorer 300 Plus and River 2 deliver 300W of continuous AC output with 600W surge capacity, which is sufficient for powering laptops, CPAP machines, Wi-Fi routers, fans, small appliances, camera batteries, and projectors. This output is ideal for light-duty tasks and emergency electronics.
Each model is fitted with a pure sine wave AC inverter, ensuring safe, clean power delivery for sensitive devices. The River 2 features two AC outlets, while the Explorer 300 Plus includes one AC outlet, which can be a limiting factor if you plan to run multiple AC-powered devices simultaneously without additional adapters.
EcoFlow’s X-Boost technology also gives the River 2 the ability to power some appliances up to 600W by adjusting voltage output—offering some added flexibility not found in the Jackery model.
Winner: EcoFlow River 2
With dual AC outlets and X-Boost support, the River 2 provides a more flexible setup for powering multiple or high-startup-load devices.
Charging Speed and Input Options
Charging speed is a major differentiator in real-world usage. The EcoFlow River 2 leads the compact class with a 360W AC input, enabling a full 0–100% charge in just 60 minutes. This is ideal for those who need fast energy replenishment at home, in the car, or at temporary power stops.
The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus supports 300W AC input, reaching a full charge in around 2 hours. While still fast and far superior to older models, it remains noticeably slower than EcoFlow’s rapid recharge performance.
Both models support MPPT solar charging. The River 2 accepts up to 110W of solar input, while the Jackery allows up to 100W. The difference is minor, but EcoFlow’s broader voltage range and solar optimization generally result in faster and more stable solar performance in varied conditions.
Additionally, car charging is better on the River 2, which supports both 12V and 24V, whereas the Jackery 300 Plus supports only 12V vehicle charging.
Winner: EcoFlow River 2
Faster AC charging, slightly better solar input, and broader car charging support give it the clear advantage for charging efficiency and adaptability.
Portability and Physical Design
The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus weighs 3.75 kg, slightly heavier than the EcoFlow River 2, which comes in at 3.5 kg. While both units are light enough for one-handed carrying, the River 2 holds an edge in portability.
Design-wise, the Explorer 300 Plus features Jackery’s recognizable orange-and-grey build with a robust handle and compact frame. The River 2, meanwhile, showcases a modern, clean aesthetic with smooth contours and a centered handle for balanced carrying.
Both are rugged enough for outdoor use, but the River 2’s slightly smaller size and lower weight make it more favorable for backpackers, vanlifers, and mobile professionals.
Winner: EcoFlow River 2
More compact and lightweight, it’s better optimized for maximum portability without compromising functionality.
Smart Features and Mobile App Integration
The EcoFlow River 2 includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, fully supported by the EcoFlow mobile app. The app allows users to monitor input/output levels, battery health, control charge rates, schedule recharge cycles, and perform over-the-air firmware updates. It’s a robust tool for managing power intelligently and efficiently.
The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus also includes smart capabilities via the Jackery app, but it connects through Bluetooth only, which limits range and accessibility. It provides basic monitoring and control functions, but lacks the more advanced network-connected features of EcoFlow’s app.
Winner: EcoFlow River 2
Full wireless control, Wi-Fi capability, and a mature, feature-rich app experience give it the edge in smart functionality.
Ports and Output Variety
The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus offers a simple and effective output setup: one AC outlet, two USB-A ports (15W each), one 100W USB-C port, and a 12V car port. The standout here is the high-speed 100W USB-C, which can directly charge most laptops, tablets, and other modern devices quickly.
The EcoFlow River 2 includes two AC outlets, two USB-A ports (12W each), one 60W USB-C port, and a 12V car port. While it includes more AC outlets, the USB-C is limited to 60W, which is enough for smartphones, drones, and some tablets, but less optimal for higher-powered laptops.
Winner: Jackery Explorer 300 Plus
The inclusion of a 100W USB-C port makes it a better choice for users who regularly charge USB-C laptops or other high-draw USB-C devices.
Quick Rundown Of Jackery Explorer 300 Plus
Quick Rundown Of EcoFlow River 2
Conclusion
Choose the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus if your priority is higher USB-C power output, slightly more battery capacity, and simple functionality in a compact design. It’s great for laptop users and light camping tasks that require a bit more runtime.
Choose the EcoFlow River 2 if you value faster charging, superior battery longevity, smart Wi-Fi-enabled control, and dual AC outlet functionality. It’s the better option for power users who need speed, flexibility, and long-term reliability.
Overall Winner: EcoFlow River 2
With faster charging, longer battery life, more AC ports, advanced app integration, and broader input support, the EcoFlow River 2 proves to be the most well-rounded and future-ready portable power station in the compact category.