- Brand: Goal Zero
- Model: Guide 10 Plus Solar Kit
- RRP: AUD $179.00
| Nomad 7 Solar Panel | Guide 10 Plus Recharger | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Solar 7W (8-9V) | Batteries 11Wh, 2300mAh (4.8V) | |
| Power Output | USB 1A (5W max) | USB, AA/AAA batteries | |
| Weight | 460 g (16.2 oz) | 181 g (6.4 oz) | 641 g (22.6 oz) |
My needs
This was bought for hiking and camping trips, to provide power for my iPhone 4S and Fenix AA LED torch. The iPhone was my only form of communication and navigation, so it was important that the battery didn’t go flat. Also, while hiking on the edge of mobile phone reception areas, the battery tends to drain more quickly as it’s searching harder for a signal, so I needed plenty of power to recharge it.
The Guide 10 Plus contains four AA NiMH batteries. I chose to use Varta Professional 2700mAh as they had the highest capacity I had at the time. The Guide 10 Plus also acts as a night light which is handy to hang in a tent during the night.
What I like
- Convenient – charges AA batteries (and AAA with an adapter) which many devices can run off
- Multi-tasking – during daylight hours will charge the iPhone along with 4 x AAA NiMH batteries at the same time
- Torch – in-built LED globe easily provides background light all night (up to 100 hours run time)
- Reliable – charges batteries consistently
- Powerful – never had an issue fully charging my phone from the Guide 10 Plus batteries (also charges an iPad 3)
- Rugged – water resistant (tolerates light rain) and well built – although I’m still careful not to crack the panels
Extra considerations
- Heat sensitive – I left this kit on the dash in a hot car on a +40°C day and the Guide 10 Plus melted and warped. Goal Zero were kind enough to replace the unit for me
- Expensive – not something you want to leave behind!
Further information
https://www.goalzero.com.au/shop/complete-kits/guide-10-plus-kit/