This Bluetti powerhouse is perfect for road trips – it's now 46% off.

ZDNET's most important conclusions

• The Bluetti AC70 is a portable power plant that won't break the bank (or the bank, since it's on sale for $379).
• This is a powerful unit with an output of 1000W for normal loads, increasing to 2000W for resistive loads such as heaters and hair dryers.
• To access more advanced features, you will need the companion app.

Portable batteries have revolutionized the energy industry. Forget about noisy, smelly gasoline generators and extension cords; These backpacks are a convenient way to carry your energy while traveling.

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Power plants come in all shapes and sizes, from small devices that can easily fit in a backpack to large units that need to be transported on wheels. I prefer something in the middle – a plant that is large enough to power large loads for an extended period of time, but small enough to be easily moved.

Over the last few months I have been testing the so-called Bluetti AC70a portable power station with enough power to run energy-hungry appliances such as hair dryers, electric kettles, and space heaters.

Bluetti AC70 Features

• Power: Rated power 1000W/lifting power 2000W
• Capacity: 768Wh
• Charging with alternating current: Turbo charging 950W, 45 minutes to 80%
• Solar charging: 500W Solar fast charging, fully charged in two hours
• Exits: AC: 2×120 V/8.33 A, total 1000 W | USB-C: max. 2 × 100 W | USB-A: 2 × 5VDC/2.4A, total 12W | 12V DC: 1 × 12V/10A
• Battery: LiFePO₄, designed for over 3000 charging cycles
• App: Smart remote control via BLUETTI APP
• UPS response time: 20 ms
• Libra: Approximately 22.5 lbs/10.2 kg
• Dimensions: 12.4 × 8.2 × 10.1 inch / 314 × 209.5 × 255.8 mm
• Guarantee: Five years

When testing a power plant for a review, I pay attention to several key aspects.

First, I check whether the device meets the requirements contained in the specifications, which, in the case of power plants, specify the battery capacity and loads that the device can handle. I'm eager to see how the plant handles loads beyond its power rating, and I want it to shut down smoothly, not spit and spark and make a fuss.

The AC70 passed all my tests with flying colors. This is a well-made, well-designed unit that delivers exactly what it promises.

I am particularly impressed with the durability of the device. Bluetti used LiFePO₄ (lithium iron phosphate) batteries in this power plant, which are known for their durability. The cells in this device last for 3,000 charge cycles before requiring replacement, which far exceeds the typical charge cycles of 500 to 800 for standard lithium-ion batteries.

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The device can be charged from a wall socket, solar panels or a vehicle's 12V socket.

Safety, especially with regard to heat management, is of the utmost importance. While most power plants are good at handling heat, some are hot garbage. I expect power plants from a premium brand like Bluetti to be free from safety issues, and the AC70 did not disappoint.

Durability is also a key aspect of my testing. Despite the challenges of standardizing real-world testing, I subject all power plants to rigorous conditions for several weeks. This rigorous testing includes extensive use, transportation in cars and trucks, and intentional drops onto hard surfaces to assess durability.

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I'm particularly concerned about the overall integrity of the device. I don't want to intentionally break the packaging, but I want to know if pieces of plastic or parts with part numbers come loose and start rattling inside the unit.

Once again, the AC70 performed brilliantly, passing all durability tests.

Finally, there is usability. I look for controls that are easy to use and have a display that shows all the necessary information, without clutter or confusion.

The AC70 also excels in this area. The bright and clear display, complemented by just three backlit buttons, perfectly balances simplicity and functionality.

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For me, the AC70 is the perfect “Goldilocks” power plant. While I have larger units, ideal for powering significant off-grid setups, and smaller ones, suitable for day trips, the AC70 strikes the perfect balance. It's portable enough for easy transportation, but has enough capacity to meet the needs of a small group for a few days. I relied on the power plant to efficiently charge my smartphone, cameras, drones and laptops.

The AC70's versatility is especially enhanced with a wide range of charging options that include AC input, solar and 12V DC. I've found that charging the station from a car's 12V outlet is particularly effective at keeping the device charged, as long as you don't allow the battery to over-discharge. Thanks to this function, the backpack does not require long charging, which could be inconvenient when traveling.

Additionally, Bluetti offers an application that allows you to control advanced functions of your power plants, such as regulating the charging speed or turning on the ecological mode. While I prefer touch controls with physical buttons, a nod to my old-school preferences, I appreciate the appeal and convenience that smartphone controls provide for many users.

ZDNET purchasing advice

Considering the high cost of power plants, the significant amount of energy stored in them, and the tragic consequences of battery failure, I strongly recommend investing in a high-quality unit. My experience with substandard products from little-known brands has emphasized the importance of choosing a high-quality, well-established power plant.

Also: This power plant has an irreplaceable emergency function

Bluetti stands out as one of those renowned brands, a AC70 is an example of commitment to quality. Given its performance and portability, I can see this powerhouse accompanying me on many adventures in 2024 and beyond.