Anker SOLIX C200 DC Power Station: features, specs and who it suits

The Anker SOLIX C200 DC (model A1727) is a compact power station for charging phones, tablets, laptops and other USB devices away from an outlet. It stores 192Wh in a LiFePO4 battery and delivers up to 200W. It is a DC power bank, so it has USB ports only, with no AC outlets.

What 192Wh and 200W mean

192Wh is the energy stored, and 200W is the most it can deliver at one time. As a rough illustration, a phone battery is often around 15 to 20Wh, so 192Wh could charge a typical phone many times, though real figures are lower due to conversion losses. Laptops draw more, so the number of charges depends on the laptop.

Five charging ports

Anker lists five ports: one 100W USB-C, one 140W USB-C, one 15W USB-C and two 12W USB-A. The 140W USB-C is two-way, so it can charge devices and also recharge the station itself. A 140W port is meant to handle larger laptops that support USB Power Delivery 3.1.

Three ways to recharge

Anker says a recharge to 80% takes about 1.3 hours through the 140W USB-C PD 3.1 port. You can also use a solar panel or a car. Solar input goes up to 100W, and Anker recommends its 100W or 60W solar panels, which are not included. The station is listed as not compatible with the Anker SOLIX PS30 (or other 5V, 3A USB-C panels), the PS200 or the PS400.

For wall charging, Anker says to use a USB-C charger of 9V/2A (18W) or higher, and only specific USB-C ports can be used for recharging. Check the manual for which. The listing notes that no wall charger is included.

Battery life and warranty

LiFePO4 cells are typically valued for long cycle life. Anker rates the pack at 3,000 cycles and gives a three-year warranty.

Size and carrying

At 3.9 x 7.3 x 4.3 inches (about 10 x 18.5 x 11 cm), Anker calls it 39% smaller than comparable power stations. A carrying strap is sold separately.

In the box

The box holds the power station, a USB-C to USB-C cable, a safety manual and warranty information.

Who it suits

It suits campers, travellers, remote workers and anyone who wants backup power for USB devices during an outage. It does not suit anyone who needs AC outlets for appliances.

What to check before you buy

• Port types: all outputs are USB; confirm your devices charge over USB-C or USB-A.
• Laptop wattage: check your laptop's charging needs against the 100W and 140W ports.
• Wall charger: you need to supply a suitable USB-C charger.
• Solar panel: confirm the panel's compatibility using Anker's list above.
• Strap: the carrying strap is a separate purchase.

The short version

• A 192Wh LiFePO4 DC power bank station with 200W output.
• Five USB ports, including a 140W two-way USB-C.
• Recharges by USB-C, solar (up to 100W) or car.
• 3,000-cycle battery and a three-year warranty; no AC outlets.

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