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Choosing between the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 vs BLUETTI AC180 is the toughest decision for mid-size power station buyers in 2026. Both units are the “gold standard” for 1kWh capacity, and both finally use long-lasting LFP batteries.
But they are built for two completely different types of people.
If you pick the wrong one, you will either end up with a battery that is too heavy to carry, or one that isn’t strong enough to run your heater. In this detailed comparison, we break down the specs to help you decide.
1. Portability: The “Back-Saving” Test
This is the most shocking difference. If you plan to move the unit often (camping, beach, hiking), read this carefully.
- Jackery 1000 v2: It weighs 23.8 lbs (10.8 kg). It feels surprisingly light and features a new foldable handle that sits flush, making it easy to pack in a car trunk.
- BLUETTI AC180: It weighs 35.2 lbs (16 kg). It is bulky and has built-in handles that stick out, making it harder to stack gear on top of it.
- Winner: Jackery. It is 11 lbs lighter, which makes a massive difference when carrying it more than 50 feet.
Deep Dive: Want to see the Jackery’s design up close? Read our full review: Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Review.
2. Inverter Power: Running High-Wattage Appliances
When comparing the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 vs BLUETTI AC180 for raw power, the tables turn.
- Jackery: 1500W Output (3000W Surge). It handles coffee makers, fridges, and microwaves perfectly.
- BLUETTI: 1800W Output (2700W Power Lifting Mode). The “Power Lifting” feature allows it to run high-resistive loads (like electric kettles or space heaters) up to 2700W by lowering the voltage.
- Winner: BLUETTI. If you need to run a heater or a heavy-duty tool, the AC180 is the beast you need.
3. Battery Tech & Charging Speed
When comparing the battery tech of the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 vs BLUETTI AC180, both brands have finally upgraded to LiFePO4 (LFP) technology, meaning both will last for 10 years (3000+ cycles).
- Wall Charging:
- Jackery: 0-100% in 1 Hour (Emergency Charge Mode).
- BLUETTI: 0-80% in 45 Minutes (Turbo Mode).
- Solar Input:
- Jackery: 400W Max.
- BLUETTI: 500W Max.
- Winner: Tie. Both are incredibly fast, though BLUETTI has a slight edge in solar input.
Tech Note: Why is LFP important? See our chemistry guide: How Long Does a Portable Power Station Last?.
4. UPS & App Features
A major functional difference in the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 vs BLUETTI AC180 comparison is how they handle home backup.
- BLUETTI AC180: Features a true UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) mode with 20ms switchover. It is perfect for keeping your desktop computer running during a blackout. The app allows deep customization.
- Jackery 1000 v2: Focuses on simplicity. The app is clean but basic. It lacks a dedicated UPS rating (though it supports pass-through charging).
- Winner: BLUETTI. It is smarter and better for home office backup.
Full Review: Interested in the UPS feature? Check out the BLUETTI AC180 Review.
5. Final Verdict: Which 1kWh Battery Wins?
So, who wins the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 vs BLUETTI AC180 battle? It depends entirely on where you use it.
Choose the Jackery 1000 v2 If:
You are a camper, Overlander, or RV owner who moves around a lot. The lighter weight and stackable design make it the superior travel companion.
Choose the BLUETTI AC180 If:
You want a stationary home backup or need to run heavy heating appliances. The extra power and UPS mode make it better for indoor emergencies.
FAQ
Q: Can I use EcoFlow panels on them?
A: Yes, but you need adapters. Both units use standard inputs, but checking voltage compatibility is key. See our Solar Panel Guide for details.
Q: Which one is quieter?
A: The Jackery 1000 v2 is marketed as “Whisper Quiet” (30dB). The BLUETTI fans can be aggressive and louder under heavy load (45dB+).
Q: Who wins the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 vs BLUETTI AC180 noise test?
A: The Jackery is generally quieter (30dB) compared to the BLUETTI, which can get noisy (45dB+) when the fans kick in under heavy load.