BLUETTI AC180 Solar Generator Battery Backup
BLUETTI Solar Generator AC180 Key Features
- Quick Charging: 1,152Wh LiFePO4 battery charges from 0-80% in 45 minutes, and fully charges in 1 hour with 1440W AC input
- Powerful Output: Delivers 1800W standard power (boostable to 2700W peak) through 11 outlets, including 4 AC outlets
- Solar Compatible: Includes MPPT controller for up to 500W solar input, enabling full charge in 2.8-3.3 hours with solar energy
- Reliable Backup: Functions as UPS with 20ms response time during power outages
- Portable Design: Weighs 35.3 pounds with dimensions of 13.4″L x 9.7″W x 12.5″H
- Versatile Applications: Ideal for camping, off-grid activities, and home emergency power backup
- Complete Package: Includes AC/car/solar charging cables and user manual
Original price was: $629.00.$499.00Current price is: $499.00.
Description
Buying Guide: BLUETTI Solar Generator AC180
Understanding Power Capacity
When selecting the BLUETTI AC180 Solar Generator, it’s important to understand its 1,152Wh capacity. This lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery can power multiple devices simultaneously. Consider your power needs by calculating the wattage requirements of devices you plan to use. The AC180’s 1,800W continuous output (with 2,700W surge capability) makes it suitable for running most household appliances, camping equipment, and electronics during outages or off-grid adventures.
Charging Speed and Options
The AC180 offers impressive charging speeds that set it apart from many competitors:
- AC charging: 0-100% in just 1 hour at 1440W input
- Solar charging: Full charge in 2.8-3.3 hours with 500W solar input
- Car charging: Available through included cable
If fast recharging is essential for your use case, the AC180’s ability to reach 80% capacity in just 45 minutes makes it an excellent choice.
Output Options and Versatility
With 11 total outlets, the AC180 provides exceptional versatility:
- 4 AC outlets (120V, 1800W/2700W peak)
- Multiple USB and DC outlets for various devices
This wide range of output options makes the generator suitable for powering everything from smartphones to refrigerators. The BLUETTI App allows you to boost power up to 2700W for more demanding appliances.
Portability Considerations
At 35.3 pounds with dimensions of 13.4″L x 9.7″W x 12.5″H, the AC180 strikes a balance between power capacity and portability. While not the lightest option on the market, its integrated handle makes it manageable for camping and outdoor activities. Consider whether you’ll be moving it frequently or keeping it in a fixed location.
Emergency Backup Capabilities
The AC180 functions as an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) with a 20ms switchover time, making it suitable for powering essential devices during outages. This feature is particularly valuable if you need to keep medical equipment, security systems, or critical electronics running during power failures.
Solar Compatibility
With a built-in MPPT charge controller that accepts up to 500W of solar input, the AC180 is well-suited for renewable energy enthusiasts. If solar charging is a priority, you’ll need to purchase compatible solar panels separately, as they’re not included with the base unit.
Runtime Expectations
The AC180’s advertised 16-hour runtime will vary significantly based on what you’re powering. For example:
- Small devices like phones and laptops: Multiple days of power
- Medium appliances like TVs or fans: Several hours
- High-draw appliances like heaters: Shorter duration
Calculate your specific needs to ensure the AC180’s capacity meets your requirements.
Package Contents
Your purchase includes:
- BLUETTI AC180 portable power station
- AC charging cable
- Car charging cable
- Solar charging cable
- User manual
Note that solar panels are sold separately and should be purchased based on your charging needs.
Price-to-Performance Value
When evaluating the AC180, consider its fast charging capabilities, LiFePO4 battery chemistry (known for longer lifespan), and versatile output options against its price point. Compare these features with other generators in the same category to determine if it provides the best value for your specific use case.
BLUETTI AC180 Solar Generator Battery Backup Prices
Price History
Additional information
Specification: BLUETTI AC180 Solar Generator Battery Backup
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Reviews (1427)
1427 reviews for BLUETTI AC180 Solar Generator Battery Backup
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jared –
love this power station was running the wifi and tv during a power outage lasted for hours, very good quality inverter had zero issues. don’t skimp out on lower priced power stations you sacrifice on a lot buy getting lower priced one this a very balanced with features as well as quality and run time. very impressed 🙂
Amazon Customer –
Came in handy for any kind of camping, had no problem running fans all night in the tent keeping phone charged I used with my little compressor cooler to have a little fridge, also for beach days using this power bank in combination with the compressor cooler to pull out frozen popsicles and cold drinks, keeping everyone’s phone charged to keep the music going, it’s awesome. Works good on road trips – plugged right into the car no problem. I did a car camping trip across 7 states and this fits perfectly into the car and lasted for my needs, I got a solar panel to charge it that works awesome too. Even worked amazing during the last hurricane we had, I took it to my grandma so she could keep her phone charged to contact us but also to pass the time playing FarmVille lol, run a fan all night for almost a week straight till she got the power back on in her area. If bluetti ever decides to send free ones out I’ll take one lol, I have this one and the Eb3a both are great no problems going strong, I’m currently trying to saving up for a bigger one. These are definitely quality and come in so many uses.
Louis –
I purchased the Bluetti AC180. Very nice unit. I am happy with it but people should be aware of the following facts that are not well explained in advance by the manufacturer:
1. The unit itself consumes 20 watts every hour with the inverter ON. This means , the unit can consume almost 500 watt-hours (50% of the battery capacity) just sitting there not producing any useful energy. For small loads, this self consumption or idle consumption may become a very important issue. Don’t expect the same energy capacity especially when using it under small loads.
2. The user manual clearly states that only 90% of the battery capacity can be used to protect the battery.
3. So, for example, this means that you only get 800 watt-hours energy capacity when using 80 watts of power for 10 hours. So, you get 800 watt-hours instead of the advertised 1,154 watt-hours and this is perfectly normal and reflects exactly the performance stated in the user manual. Unfortunately, this is not well explained before buying. People should buy bigger or smaller units depending on their needs. Smaller units will have smaller self-consumption (Idle consumption) and probably more adequate for smaller loads. When using these power stations for smaller loads, you should plan on using a smaller power station with lots of extra batteries instead of buying a very large unit with no extra batteries. I think this is a very important information that the manufacturer should explain before people buy these power stations.
3. Recharges in 2 hours at standard speed.
3. You can recharge using the DC MPPT Input (12-60 V). Works very well. I tested it with a 12 volts battery and it works very well.
4. Some parameters cannot be modified through the user interface (Display/Keyboard). This is unfortunate. The user should normally be able to modify all parameters without having to use a smart phone with a special app. It is possible to use the power station without using a phone but keep in mind that some parameters like charging rate can only be modify using a smart phone.
5. The unit comes on and start charging by itself as soon as it detects power either coming from the AC or DC inlets. If you don’t want that functionality, you will have to disconnect the unit or install a switch before the unit in order to prevent it from starting by itself.
6. The information available online and the user manuals should be improved in order to better explain many aspects of these power stations, what should be expected in different situations and how to use them properly.
CE –
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About a month ago, my area was hit with a storm that knocked out our power for over an hour. My two teenagers were home alone at the time. No lights, no Internet, no way to communicate easily—and I couldn’t get home right away. That experience made me realize how much we rely on power, especially for safety and staying connected.
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⚙️ Setup & Installation
After researching a lot of options, I decided on the Bluetti AC180 because it offered:
• Enough power for essentials
• A built-in UPS (uninterrupted power supply)
• A price that didn’t require me to fully commit to a whole-house backup system
Setup was surprisingly straightforward. I:
1. Connected the AC180 to my regular wall outlet so it stays charged and in standby.
2. Disconnected the power source to one set of outlets in our basement that covered TV, and lamps to (our family room).
3. Ran that broken circuit through an 8-gauge outdoor extension cord plugged directly into the AC180.
That room powers:
• Two ceiling lights (5w)
• A floor lamp (2w)
• A Smart TV (110-200 W)
• Our Internet router (10-20 W)
• A couple of outlets for laptops
As soon as I tested it, everything worked perfectly. The best part is when the power goes out, it switches over instantly. You don’t even notice—Internet and devices stay on without interruption.
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💡 Real-World Use
Since installing it, I’ve tested it a few times and trained my kids on how to monitor the battery life. The AC180 display shows exactly how many hours are left depending on the load. If the power drain gets too fast, they know to turn off the TV or dim the lights to stretch the runtime.
It’s given me huge peace of mind knowing that if I’m away and the grid fails, they can just go downstairs, turn on the lights, stay online, and wait safely.
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✅ Pros
• Very easy setup for anyone comfortable with basic wiring
• Instant switchover with UPS—no disruption to Internet or devices
• Clear display showing runtime and load
• Compact and portable—can double as backup power in a car or camper
• Good value compared to larger systems
❌ Cons
• If you want to power multiple large appliances, you’ll eventually want a higher-capacity unit
• Extension cords need to be properly rated (8 gauge worked great for me)
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🎯 Who This Is For
If you:
• Have a small family or kids at home
• Want an affordable, reliable backup solution
• Need something you can set up without hiring an electrician
…the AC180 is fantastic. It’s also a great intro step before moving to a whole-house generator.
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📷 Videos Uploaded
I’ve included videos showing:
• How I set up the device
• The room it powers
• How the switchover works
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Bottom Line:
This was a lifesaver for us. It’s easy to use, dependable, and makes me feel prepared without spending thousands. Highly recommended for peace of mind in unpredictable weather.
Ángel –
Estoy decepcionado lo usé para alimentar un bombillo durante 1 hora que se fue la luz y se cayó del 100% al 84% creo el arrancador de mi auto aguanta más , me siento estafado pues gasté como 15 mil pesos
jared –
It’s a good product. Nice and compact. Capacity is okay. Would run a 12v cooler for about a day without solar. Good solar input. Self consumption was reasonable, a little over 80% efficient. This is a good unit for the price ($780). It had issues running my keruig sometimes so I returned and upgraded to Elite 200 which is about the same size but twice the weight and twice the price.
jared –
I’ve had the machine for two weeks and have tested all of the features. It is everything that Bluetti claims it to be. It looks and feels like a quality device and it’s not too heavy (~16kg/35.27lbs) to take car camping.
The UPS function actually works, even on devices with an electronic power button (such as a desktop PC) and that is unlike the emergency power source (EPS) system on a competitive model from another popular brand.
I do wish the built in MPPT controller could handle more input current from solar. It is difficult to get close to the maximum 500W input from solar because of the input current limitation of 10A. 15A (like it can handle on AC) would be ideal on a machine in this class; however, a more robust MPPT controller and heavier gauge wiring would be required and that would increase the cost slightly.
My only other wish for the AC180 would be rubber port caps for all ports, including the USB ports. If you charge the internal batteries outdoors with solar, dust and debris can collect in the ports. I purchased some vanilla port covers to take care of that, but they are not attached to the device so I may lose a few.
The cooling fan does kick in when it is charging or discharging at a high rate but the sound is not as high pitched as it is on competing models. It isn’t quiet, but it isn’t horrible either.
I downloaded the phone App to update the firmware. I don’t normally use phone Apps, but it was necessary in this case because you cannot update it with a jump drive or a PC. It works. I do wish you could set the display screen time out in the App. 30 seconds is okay, but when you are trying to optimize the position of your solar panels to maximize the input watts it would be nice to have the choice, rather than pushing the power button to turn the timed out display back on.
Over all, an excellent machine and a good value if you can purchase it on sale for ~$1000. It will run a fridge over night in an emergency and has a large enough inverter (pure sine wave) to run almost anything for a short duration.
Skippy –
Because of the small size and light weight, the Bluetti AC 180 is the power station we bring with us camping and Boondocking. It easily powers, our coffee maker and cooktop and charges our laptops and devices. We even recharge it with a portable solar panel, so we’re never out of power. Total game changer in the backcountry.
Yaimi Laguna Silva –
I couldn’t be happier with the BLUETTI AC180. This power station delivers exactly what it promises and more. With 1152Wh capacity and 1800W output (2700W peak), it easily powers my essential devices during outages and keeps everything running smoothly when I’m outdoors camping.
What really impressed me is the fast charging—going from 0% to 80% in under an hour is a game changer. The LiFePO4 battery feels solid and long-lasting, giving me peace of mind that it will hold up well over time.
The design is compact but powerful, with multiple AC outlets, USB ports, and DC options that let me charge or run several devices at once without any issues. I’ve used it for laptops, phones, lights, small appliances, and even a mini fridge—it handles them all with ease.
It’s also much quieter than a gas generator, making it perfect for camping trips and indoor use during emergencies. The display is clear and easy to read, showing input, output, and remaining battery at a glance.
Overall, the BLUETTI AC180 is a must-have backup power solution. Whether for home, camping, or road trips, it’s reliable, efficient, and worth every penny. Highly recommended!
Ángel –
Carl –
More comprehensive review of Bluetti AC180 Power Bank, Jan 3, 2025
I purchased the AC180 on Amazon on Dec 1, 2024. Price was $479 plus $49.58 in sales tax for a total of $528.58. I considered this to be a great price, lower than it appears to have ever been previously over it’s life. As of today (Jan 3, 2025) it remains at $479 when using the Amazon included coupon.
The device claims to have an 1152 watt hour LiFePO4 battery. Their manual states that you need to de-rate that first by 10%, then again by another 15%. So 1152 * .9 = 1063.8 * .85 = 904.23 watt hours available (when using AC outlets via built in inverter). My testing suggests this is a pretty accurate value. Assume this has a 900 watt hour battery for planning purposes and you should be close.
Overall Pros: Self contained, reasonably light weight unit with an 1800 watt continuous, 2700 watt peak, AC inverter. This is big enough to run any individual 120V appliance in my kitchen (toaster oven, microwave, coffee pot). None of those would normally be operated for more than about 5 minutes at any given time, meaning the AC180 could support their intermittent use as needed over a number of hours. It is portable and light weight enough to be moved into the kitchen when needed, and powerful enough to do the job while in there, for a while.
Overal Cons: The relatively small internal battery. The other goal I had for this unit was to run my refrigerator during a power outage, and I wanted this to handle that load for 12 hours, plus intermittent heavier loads noted above for short periods of time. My fridge averages about 70 watts over time (with peaks as high as 400 watts when it goes into a de-icing cycle). So assuming a continuous 70 watt draw for 12 hours I would need 840 watt hours, very close to the maximum I could draw from the internal battery. If I added any load at all (brief use of other appliances, or even an LED light bulb), I wouldn’t make my 12 hour goal.
My solution: I added an external 100 Amp Hour, 1280 Watt Hour, 12 volt LiFePO4 battery, and connected it to the Bluetti’s solar/charging input port. At 12 volts, it provided about 98 watts of input power. At 24 volts (using a 12 to 24 volt buck converter) it provided about 150 watts of input power. Using a continuous 90 watt draw (through the inverter) and the external battery supplementing the internal battery (at 12 volts), I was able to run over 16 hours and had about 10% of the internal battery remaining. Using a continuous 183 watt draw (via the inverter), and the external battery supplementing at 24 volts (150 watts), I achieved a total of 9 hours of run time (and had 3% left on the internal battery). In both cases, I drew the total 1280 watt hours from the external battery. Another con: The input charging voltage takes a hit also, it took a 107 watt draw from my external battery to produce 98 watts of charge into the AC180. So a hit on the input, and a hit on the output. With the 9 hour, 183 watt test, the overall efficiency (total input watt hours to total load watt hours) was about 77%. Acceptable, but not great. With the 16 hour 90 watt test, the efficiency was about 69%, a bit poorer than with the higher load. Internal inverter inefficiency regardless of how much load is applied took a greater hit with the lower load.
Bottom line: Despite the not really great efficiency, I’m happy with the Bluetti. I’ve built a couple of my own “solar generators”, none of which matched the Bluetti for size, weight, and capability in a single package. By adding the external 12V 100AH battery, I’ve given the AC180 the run time I’m looking for with it. Individually, the AC180 and the external battery, are very portable and can be paired at the needed location. With the pair, I can use this in my kitchen to run my fridge for an extended period of time while also using some heavy draw appliances briefly from time to time. Also, this combination is much more cost effective than the newer AC180 V2 with the larger battery. I paid $150 for the external battery.
SamuraiJack42 –
After thorough research on backup power options, I chose the Bluetti AC180 for my wife’s home office needs. Compared to conventional generators, this battery backup with solar capability offered better features for our situation. The AC180 provided 100 more watts than competing brands, at a good price point, with reportedly superior customer support.
Upon delivery, the unit was well-packaged with a 55% charge – ideal for long-term storage. I immediately tested it with our living room electronics (TV and PS4), and it performed excellently. It’s impressive that this relatively compact 30-pound unit can power entertainment devices for hours on just half a charge!
I did encounter an initial charging issue, with the unit only drawing about 300W instead of the expected 1000W+. After researching, I completely drained the battery with turbo charge enabled, then recharged it – which solved the problem. The unit then charged at over 1000W as expected.
The AC180 easily meets our needs for powering essentials during outages – my wife’s PC, modem, refrigerator, and lighting. I also purchased a 160W portable solar panel, which was simple to connect and extends our usage options, even for camping trips.
When Bluetti offered an additional $50 coupon days after my purchase, their customer service honored it upon request. Despite the minor charging issue, the unit has performed exceptionally well, making this purchase completely satisfying.
Klenzyme –
The portable power station paired with its solar panel has truly enhanced our camping experience this season! All components have functioned flawlessly so far, leaving us with an extremely favorable impression. It’s proven to be dependable, energy-efficient, and an essential piece of equipment for anyone who enjoys outdoor excursions.
Collins –
I’m extremely satisfied with this power station. During a power outage, it successfully powered both our WiFi and TV for several hours without any issues. The inverter quality is exceptional. I’d strongly advise against purchasing cheaper power stations as they compromise on essential features. This model offers an excellent balance of quality, features, and runtime. Truly impressive performance!
Amazon Customer –
I’m disappointed. I used it to power a light bulb for 1 hour when the power went out, and it dropped from 100% to 84%. I think my car starter holds more charge. I feel ripped off since I spent around 15,000 pesos.
shane –
I use this battery primarily for power outages in winter. It’s powerful enough to run my coffee maker and refrigerator for many hours. I’ll also use it at my hunting camp for lighting, my small microwave, and to recharge my power tools. However, I recommend buying the AC180P model instead of the AC180 model – for the price difference, you’ll get an additional 288 watts of power. BLUETTI has a good reputation for batteries and they guarantee their products for five years, which is a mark of quality. I recommend this product.
SamuraiJack42 –
Bluetti Power Station Review
I’m really impressed with Bluetti’s quality. Their products are reliable and effective. This particular unit features an intuitive display that clearly shows power input and output metrics. Operation is straightforward with just three simple buttons: Unit ON, DC Output ON, and AC Output ON.
Charging is quick when connected to home power, and the included 200W solar panel can fully charge it during a day of good sunlight. However, it’s worth noting that actual solar charging performance varies based on conditions. My tests showed:
The unit consumes up to 20W when powered on, so it’s best to turn it off when not in use. Only activate the AC/DC outputs when needed to conserve power. Helpfully, it includes auto power-off functionality and the display turns off after a few seconds to save energy.
The Bluetooth functionality allows connection via a smartphone app from up to 100 feet away. Through the app, you can:
This remote capability is particularly convenient when camping – you can start powering devices without leaving your tent on cold mornings.
Klenzyme –
After two weeks of testing all features, I can confirm the Bluetti AC180 lives up to its claims. It’s a quality device that’s reasonably portable (about 16kg/35.27lbs) for car camping trips.
The UPS function works perfectly, even with electronic power button devices like desktop PCs – something competitors’ EPS systems can’t match.
One limitation is the 10A current restriction on the MPPT solar controller, making it difficult to reach the 500W maximum solar input. A 15A capacity (like it handles for AC) would be better for a unit in this class.
I wish it had rubber port caps for all ports, including USB. When charging outdoors with solar, dust can collect in these openings. I bought separate port covers, but they’re not attached and easy to lose.
The cooling fan activates during high-rate charging/discharging, but its sound is less high-pitched than competitors – not quiet, but tolerable.
The required phone app works for firmware updates, though I wish it allowed adjustment of the display timeout (currently fixed at 30 seconds), which is inconvenient when optimizing solar panel positioning.
Overall, it’s an excellent machine and good value when on sale for ~$1000. It can power a refrigerator overnight during emergencies and its pure sine wave inverter can run almost anything for short periods.