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The battle of the mid-range titans is here. If you have a budget between 700 and 900 dollars to spend on a home backup battery, you are likely stuck between the EcoFlow DELTA 2 vs BLUETTI AC180.
Both offer ~1kWh capacity. Both use long-lasting LFP batteries. Both charge insanely fast.
So, what’s the difference?
- EcoFlow is built to grow (Expandable).
- BLUETTI is built to lift (Higher Power).
In this 2026 head-to-head review, we break down the specs to help you pick the right one for your blackout kit.
1. Output Power: The “Power Lifting” Edge
While both units are rated for 1800W continuous output, they handle heavy appliances differently.
- BLUETTI AC180: Features “Power Lifting” mode. It can run resistive heating devices (like space heaters or hair dryers) up to 2700W by lowering the voltage. It feels slightly more robust for kitchen appliances.
- EcoFlow DELTA 2: Features “X-Boost” up to 2200W. It is great, but the BLUETTI has a higher ceiling for heavy loads.
- Winner: BLUETTI (Slight edge for heaters/kettles).
2. Expandability: The EcoFlow Secret Weapon
This is the deciding factor for most homeowners in the EcoFlow DELTA 2 vs BLUETTI AC180 debate.
- EcoFlow DELTA 2: It is modular. You can plug in a “DELTA 2 Extra Battery” to double capacity to 2048Wh, or a “DELTA Max Battery” to hit 3040Wh. It grows with your budget.
- BLUETTI AC180: It is a standalone unit. While you can connect it to expansion batteries (like B80/B230) in “Power Bank Mode,” it is clunky and limits output. It is not a true expandable system like EcoFlow.
- Winner: EcoFlow (By a mile).
Deep Dive: Want to see how the expansion works? Read our full review: EcoFlow DELTA 2 Review.
3. Charging Speed & Solar
In our EcoFlow DELTA 2 vs BLUETTI AC180 charging test, we plugged both units into standard wall outlets to see the difference.
- Wall Charging:
- EcoFlow: 0-80% in 50 mins.
- BLUETTI: 0-80% in 45 mins (Turbo Charging).
- Verdict: Both are incredibly fast.
- Solar Input:
- EcoFlow: 500W Max.
- BLUETTI: 500W Max.
- Verdict: Tie. Both recharge in 3-4 hours with good sun.
Panel Guide: Need panels? Check our sizing guide: How to Choose Portable Solar Panels.
4. The UPS Function (Home Backup)
Another critical factor in the EcoFlow DELTA 2 vs BLUETTI AC180 comparison is how they handle power outages.
- Switchover Time: Both claim <20ms. In our testing, both kept a desktop PC running without crashing when we pulled the plug.
- Reliability: EcoFlow’s app allows more customization for backup reserves (e.g., “Keep battery at 100% for emergencies”).
5. Final Verdict: Which One Wins?
Choose the EcoFlow DELTA 2 If:
You want a system that can grow. If you plan to buy extra batteries later to run your fridge for 2-3 days, EcoFlow is the only logical choice.
Choose the BLUETTI AC180 If:
You want a standalone “one-and-done” purchase. If you need to run a high-wattage heater or kettle camping and don’t care about extra batteries, save some money and get the AC180.
FAQ
Q: In the EcoFlow DELTA 2 vs BLUETTI AC180 battle, which one runs a fridge longer?
A: Out of the box, the BLUETTI (1152Wh) runs a fridge slightly longer than the EcoFlow (1024Wh) by about 1-2 hours. See our Fridge Guide.
Q: Is the BLUETTI AC180 quieter?
A: Generally, yes. EcoFlow fans are known to be aggressive during fast charging. BLUETTI has a “Silent Mode” in the app that works well.
Q: Which battery chemistry is better?
A: Both use LiFePO4 (LFP), meaning both will last 10+ years (3000+ cycles). It is a tie.