El BLUETTI AC500, an update of the classic model BLUETTI C300, made its debut on the platform under the Indiegogo crowdfunding and achieved truly remarkable success. In just two months, it raised more than $12 million and ultimately broke the world record for any portable power device fundraising event, with a staggering $12.281.325 in funding from 5.183 backers.
While getting new things can certainly bring us great joy in the end, a price difference of more than $1.500 can make people wonder: is the older AC300 still a viable option? We can look at this much more closely and see if it is still a good alternative.
Power: Exactly the same size, totally different power
The BLUETTI AC500 represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, the AC300, in terms of features and capabilities. For example, while the AC300 features a 3000W pure sine wave inverter for continuous power output, the AC500 has raised the bar to 5000W to accommodate even higher power demands.
Furthermore, the AC300 can be combined with up to 4 B300 battery packs for a total capacity of 12,288 Wh, while the AC500 can support up to 6 x B300S for a maximum capacity of 18,432 Wh or 4 x B300 for 12,288 Wh.
Fast charging: unmatched speed
The AC300 system features an impressive input rate of up to 5.400 watts, with at least 2 B300 battery packs required, which can be achieved via AC outlet and solar panels simultaneously. However, the AC500 goes a step further with a maximum charging speed of 8000 watts..
This means that an AC500 system with 2 B300S battery packs It can go from 0 to 80% charge in just under 40 minutes, which is truly remarkable given the fastest charge rate among all current competitors. In addition, the built-in long-life LiFePO4 battery cell ensures that users never worry about potential problems during fast charging.
Solar power: cleanly charge devices
Both the AC300 and AC500 are designed to make it easy for users access to clean and free solar energy, as long as you have the sun, which is usually important in this case. The AC300 system can support a maximum solar input of 2400 watts, while the AC500 model can handle up to 600 more watts of solar input. This means that any user can enjoy a reliable power supply even in remote areas without access to power supply.
Once the solar power has been converted to usable power, both the AC300 and AC500 will deliver constant power to devices, including storing excess power in their batteries for later use. In this case it is possible to use a wide range of portable solar panels, including BLUETTI PV200, PV350 and PV420, in order to efficiently charge the AC300 and AC500. With this range of solar panel options, users can select the one that best suits their needs based on factors such as capacity, portability, and also efficiency.
The same ability comes with truly important upgrades
The B300 and B300S are expansion battery packs They offer a versatile power source for various electrical and electronic devices. While they can be used as stand-alone power sources, the B300S has been enhanced with 500W max solar input to effectively reduce charging time.
The B300S is designed with intelligent self-heating capability to improve low-temperature discharge performance and extend battery life known as LiFePO4. In colder temperatures, this will take some time for it to wake up and work actively. However, the B300S can warm up responsively even when the ambient temperature is this low., at -20 degrees, which ensures that the AC500 system works without problems during the winter months in different places. With these enhancements, the B300S is an ideal choice for users who want reliable energy storage and efficient charging capabilities.
The Capability: An easy upgrade for existing B300 users
In addition to the B300S expansion battery pack, BLUETTI AC500 it is also compatible with the B300. This means that users of the AC300 and B300 system can access 170% of current power simply by purchasing the AC500 model instead of having to replace the entire system.
Plus, consumers don't have to worry about choosing the right battery pack, as both the B300 and B300S can be combined in an AC500 system, which will allow a total of up to four useful packages. This provides users with a cost-effective and convenient solution to upgrade their power system while continuing to use their existing equipment.
AC300: is it still worth it?
To this day, with a power input and output of 3000 watts and the potential for 24,6 kWh expansion, the AC300 is still very competent in most applications and can cover nearly 95% of the AC500's capacities.
Considering the price difference of up to €1.800 (sometimes the difference can be higher), the AC300 may be a cheaper option for users who do not require extreme performance, at least when compared to the other, the AC500. On the other hand, the AC500 would be a better option for those who live in colder areas, as it offers higher power and more efficient charge/discharge rates. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the specific user or company.