Outdoor Gear Lab found that the FlexSolar 60W generates over 5,100 mAh per hour via USB-C in direct sunlight, while The Camping Nerd noted its versatile junction box supports DC and multiple device charging. However, it weighs approximately 6.4 lbs, which reduces portability for ultralight backpacking compared to smaller competitors. The cloth exterior also attracts dust more easily than molded plastic alternatives, requiring regular cleaning to maintain efficiency. This model fits car campers needing high output and extensive accessories, but hikers should look elsewhere due to its significant weight.
Full review
Direct sunlight charging speed in midday Idaho
Outdoor Gear Lab measured the FlexSolar 60W's direct solar charging performance under specific controlled conditions, recording an average output of more than 5,100 mAh per hour via its USB-C port. These measurements were taken during midday sunlight in July at a location with 2,400 feet of elevation in Idaho. The testing protocol involved connecting identical battery banks to the solar charger and discharging them on a workbench after one hour to determine usable energy transfer. This output rate allows users to recharge typical smartphones within a single hour of quality light exposure.
The performance gap becomes even more pronounced when utilizing the DC port for charging small portable power stations rather than standard USB battery banks. Outdoor Gear Lab recorded an impressive 8,276 mAh transferred in just one hour under the same Idaho conditions. This high-efficiency transfer validates the panel's ability to outperform many competitors rated at lower wattages, confirming that the 60W rating is not merely a marketing figure but reflects actual energy generation capabilities when the sun is directly overhead.
Junction box ports and included charging accessories
The junction box on this model provides four distinct output options, distinguishing it from smaller competitors that offer fewer connections. The Camping Nerd noted the inclusion of a DC port capable of 60W at 20-28 volts, which is essential for charging portable power stations from brands like Goal Zero, Jackery, and Bluetti using the included adapters. A USB-C Power Delivery port also supports up to 60W, allowing it to fast charge laptops such as a MacBook that recognize this specific wattage output.
Beyond the high-power ports, the unit features two USB-A outputs rated for up to 15W each, with one supporting Quick Charge 3.0 for an 18W burst. One of these USB-A ports is located on a coiled cable, allowing users to position it outside the junction box's mesh pocket while keeping the main electronics protected. The Camping Nerd highlighted that this configuration eliminates the need for permanently hardwired cables, giving users flexibility in how they route their charging lines during setup.
FlexSolar includes an extensive accessory kit with the 60W model to ensure immediate compatibility with various power stations. This package contains a 10-foot DC5521 cable, four different DC adapters for common connectors like 8mm and Anderson plugs, and a DC-to-alligator clamp adapter for connecting directly to 12-volt batteries. The Camping Nerd emphasized that this comprehensive kit means the panel is ready to charge power stations right out of the box, whereas smaller models often require purchasing separate cables.
Water resistance limits and junction box vulnerability
The solar panels themselves carry an IP65 rating, which The Camping Nerd confirmed provides total protection against dust and resistance to low-pressure water jets from any direction. In practical field tests, the reviewer left the panel exposed to light rain on a camping table and observed that it continued functioning without issue. This level of weatherproofing offers peace of mind for users who encounter sudden showers or dusty environments while setting up their gear.
However, the junction box containing the electronic ports does not share this robust protection, creating a significant vulnerability during wet conditions. A YouTube reviewer reported experiencing intermittent charging failures when attempting to use the panel in damp conditions because water exposure caused voltage drops that halted power delivery entirely. The reviewer noted that if even one of the six panels was obstructed or exposed to moisture improperly, the entire system would stop producing power.
This vulnerability requires users to take extra precautions during rainfall. The YouTube reviewer described having to hide the junction box under a tent or tarp while leaving the solar panels exposed to maintain charging continuity. This setup constraint means that while the panel can survive light rain on its surface, users must actively manage the port location to prevent water ingress, as submerging the unit or exposing the ports directly to heavy rain will interrupt functionality.
Physical dimensions and weight trade-offs
When folded, the unit compresses to approximately 13.8 by 9.1 inches with a thickness of 2.2 inches. The Camping Nerd pointed out that this folded size is substantially larger than single-panel competitors, making it less suitable for ultralight backpacking where every cubic inch matters.
Weight is another factor that differentiates the 60W model from its smaller siblings. Outdoor Gear Lab measured the panel at 40.2 ounces, while The Camping Nerd recorded a weight of 6.4 pounds. This mass makes it burdensome for long-distance hiking but manageable for car camping, RV trips, or basecamp setups where users do not need to carry the gear over rough terrain. The unit includes a built-in handle that facilitates transport between the vehicle and the setup location.
The exterior material consists of polyester fabric covering the monocrystalline cells, which contributes to the panel's flexibility but also its susceptibility to dirt accumulation. The Camping Nerd observed that the cloth surface picks up dust and grime much more easily than molded plastic alternatives found on other panels. This characteristic requires users to wipe down the surface regularly to maintain optimal charging efficiency, as accumulated debris can block sunlight from reaching the cells.
Six-panel configuration and operational sensitivity
The panel unfolds into two rows of three connected monocrystalline panels, providing a total surface area that outperforms single-row designs. Outdoor Gear Lab noted that this expansive layout allows the 60W model to recharge hefty power banks and small portable power stations during daylight hours, enabling families or groups to top off phones, lanterns, and Bluetooth speakers for nighttime use. The large footprint ensures that even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions, the panel can generate sufficient energy.
Despite its robust design, the series-connected nature of the six panels makes the system sensitive to shading and orientation. A YouTube reviewer discovered that if any single panel was obstructed or not properly aligned with the sun, the entire charging process would cease immediately. The reviewer tested this by covering one section of the array and observing a complete drop in power output from 37 watts to zero, demonstrating that partial shading disables the whole unit rather than just reducing its efficiency.
This operational characteristic means users must carefully position the panel to ensure all six sections receive unobstructed sunlight. The reviewer also found that folding the panels back on themselves or angling them incorrectly could trigger low-voltage protection modes that stop charging entirely. Once repositioned correctly, the system resumed producing steady power around 36 watts, but maintaining this alignment requires constant attention throughout the day as the sun moves across the sky.
Strengths
- +Outperforms lower-wattage competitors in direct sunlight, generating over 5,100 mAh per hour via USB-C according to Outdoor Gear Lab.
- +Includes a versatile junction box with DC (20-28V), USB-C PD (60W), and dual USB-A ports for charging power stations and multiple devices simultaneously.
- +Comes with extensive accessories including a 10 ft DC cable, four DC adapters, and alligator clamps for immediate use with various power stations.
- +Features an IP65 water-resistant rating that withstands light rain without affecting functionality.
Watch-outs
- −Weighs significantly more (approx. 40 oz to 6.4 lbs) than smaller competitors, reducing portability for ultralight backpacking.
- −Cloth exterior material tends to attract dust and dirt more easily than molded plastic alternatives.
How it compares
The FlexSolar 60W includes extensive accessories like DC cables and adapters out of the box, whereas the Bluetti PV350 relies on a long integrated MC4 cable but lacks additional hardware. While both offer good direct-sun performance, the FlexSolar 60W is heavier than the compact FlexSolar 40W, reducing its appeal for those prioritizing minimal pack weight.
Rating sources
“I'm going tell you flat out this is going to be uh the solar panel in my radio bag.”
Our 4.7 score is the average of the 2 scored reviews above; 2 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
