Bluetti AC50B Review: Big Power in a Small Package

As the owner of several solar generators or portable power stations, I’m constantly finding new ways to utilize them. Whether it’s an off-grid camping trip or an unexpected power outage, these devices are incredibly useful.

I’ve been testing the Bluetti AC50B, one of the brand’s smaller stations, for the last year. After using this device nearly every day, I found it to be one of the most helpful power stations I own. Here’s how I put this device through the ringer last year.

Bluetti AC50B Overview

Stats

• Dimensions: 11 x 7.9 x 8.7”
• Weight: 14.8 Pounds
• Battery Capacity: 448 Watt Hours
• Outlets: 1 x AC, 2 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A, 12-Volt Cigarette Lighter
• AC Input: 580 Watts
• Solar Input: 200 Watts

Pros

• Exceptional battery life
• Speedy charging
• Efficient use of power
• Can handle small, high-energy appliances

Cons

• Buttons are a bit punchy
• We wish it had more solar charging options

The AC50B is a 448-watt hour lithium iron phosphate power station that’s roughly larger than an old-school lunchbox. At just under 15 pounds, it’s an easy device to move around. For some reason, this device feels a lot lighter than some of my other stations of this size, including a smaller 300-watt machine.

The outputs on this device are simple: two standard AC ports will handle most standard household devices. Additionally, there are three USB outlets, which are fantastic for cell phones and small electronic devices.

Users can recharge the lithium-ion power supply in three different ways. It has a standard AC input, which topped off the station in less than an hour in my tests. Bluetti placed a DC/PV solar input port on the front of the device. It can handle up to a 200-watt panel. I found it to be highly efficient with a 100-watt panel during my testing.

One of the major selling points that Bluetti has hyped with this station is an AI-powered battery management system. They haven’t specified exactly what the system does. However, I will note that this unit seems more efficient than my other units. It regularly retained power after sitting without an input power source for long periods.

Pros of the Bluetti AC50B Portable Power Station

The AC50B’s size and power output are a winning combination. I frequently utilize this station during road trips in my tiny van conversion, primarily to run my appliances. The AC50B has a higher surge point than other stations of this size, which allows me to run high-draw appliances. For instance, my micro griddle and sandwich makers each draw around 500 watts continuously, allowing me to cook small, basic meals on the road. I also tested a small toaster oven and a tiny ceramic heater, each drawing around 380 watts consistently.

Anything that draws at rates that high will drain the unit quickly. However, it will run anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on how much energy the appliance uses. It lasts even longer when plugged into lower-draw devices like cell phones and laptops. I ran a portable DVD player on it for hours at a time.

I was never afraid to draw down the power to low levels on this device because it recharges so quickly. This unit has what Bluetti calls “smart turbo charging.” I’m guessing the performance ties into that AI battery management we mentioned earlier. Whatever way it works, this power station recharges faster than any other I’ve ever used. Using a standard wall outlet, it usually gets back to 100 percent in less than an hour. I had similar success when charging it through the 12-volt ports in my van. Solar was the slowest charging method, but it still didn’t take long to top off the battery.

I also love the bright, vibrant display on the front of the unit. It’s very easy to see how much power remains at a glance, even in direct sunlight. It’s one of the best displays I’ve seen on a portable power station.

Finally, I love the light weight and portability. I often found myself grabbing this unit for projects where I needed a power tool, and no outlets were nearby. It’s also small enough that it takes up minimal space in my van. That makes it an excellent choice for tiny homes and homesteading projects where power needs to be highly portable.

Cons of the Bluetti AC50B

I don’t have many complaints about the AC50B. Normally, I’m able to pull more nitpicks on any product, but this is easily Bluetti’s best design. One noticeable thing is that the buttons are a bit punchy. What I mean by that is that they usually need to be pressed twice. One button press wakes the unit from sleep mode, the second press turns on the AC or USB ports. It’s a little annoying when trying to turn the device on when your hands are full.

Secondly, I wish there were more solar charging options than a single PV input on the front. Sure, that’s a common solar plug, but anyone who has not already set up for it will need an adapter.

The only other concern for users is that this unit may not be for everyone. It will run a C-pap machine overnight and small appliances for a short time. It can also run small fridges and coolers for a short time. However, it’s not the best for running multiple appliances or power tools at the same time. It’s going to be best for van lifers and small homesteaders who don’t have huge energy needs. This unit excels when I’m cooking with small appliances for myself, but it might be a challenge to prepare a full meal for multiple people. Larger families may need a larger device or multiple units to meet everyone’s power needs.

Final Thoughts on the Bluetti AC50B

I own three Bluetti units, and the AC50B is my favorite. The fast-charging capabilities and ability to handle larger power loads make it incredibly versatile. Of my five power stations, this one is usually the go-to for most projects. It’s incredibly easy to store and transport. The fact that Bluetti regularly offers it for only $300 is another huge selling point. The AC50B offers slightly more power than other brands selling stations at the same price range. That makes it an easy unit for me to recommend for anyone considering a portable power station.