Hey! This site is reader-supported and we earn commissions if you purchase products from retailers after clicking on a link from our site.
The ALLPOWERS flexible solar panel is a convenient alternative to more traditional, rigid solar panel models. I have had a pretty good experience using two of these panels on my RV for the past year. Read ahead for my review of this model!
The Details
The ALLPOWERS 100W Flexible Solar Panel is one of the more affordable and well-liked flexible solar panels on the market today.
This model is durable and built to last. It is weather-resistant and can withstand a wide range of conditions, including wind, snow, hail, and extreme temperatures.
The solar cells are covered on both sides by an ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) layer, which insulates the cells and protects them from sun damage. Plus, a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) outer layer is also added on both sides of the panel. It resists water damage, protects the cells, and provides stability.
With this ALLPOWERS solar panel, you’ll also get MC4 connectors and a waterproof PV-XC-502 junction box, which holds and protects the panel’s electrical wiring.
This product can provide up to 100 watts of solar power at an optimal temperature, which is enough to simultaneously operate multiple small items, like a lightbulb, satellite dish, cable box, electric shaver, or clock radio.
What I Liked
My experience with the ALLPOWERS 100W Flexible Solar Panel was mostly positive.
One of the biggest draws for me was how portable this solar panel is. It weighs just under 5 pounds, so it is easy to put up, take down, and transport. In comparison, a non-flexible solar panel can weigh over 20 pounds and is much more cumbersome to transport.
Additionally, I quickly came to appreciate the panel’s flexibility. The panel can flex up to 30 degrees at any point on the unit. My RV has a rounded roof, but that was not a problem for this solar panel. Due to its flexibility, I was able to bend it to fit the shape of the roof and attach it without any issues.
Also, since this unit is so lightweight, I was able to install it with only some heavy-duty tape instead of having to drill holes and damage my RV’s roof. Their light weight also makes them a great portable solar panel option.
While the panel can only generate 100 watts of power in optimal weather conditions, it can be hooked up to other panels to create more energy if you so desire.
Personally, I did not try to hook up more than two panels. With those two, I have generated enough wattage to power my TV and my laptop, though not at the same time.
The ALLPOWERS Solar Panels are one of my top choices for the best solar panels for RVs.
Complaints
While I have enjoyed the convenience of the ALLPOWERS flexible panel compared to a more traditional rigid model, there are some issues that I hope ALLPOWERS addresses in future models of the product.
Because traditional rigid solar panels are more sturdy and durable, they can last for many years. Unfortunately, the shelf life of my flexible panel seems to be much shorter. I have only had my own for about a year, and already I am noticing that the wattage output has decreased since I first took it out of the box.
Of course, the output can diminish because of natural wear and tear and repeated exposure to the elements. At the moment, mine is having trouble reaching the maximum wattage. While not ideal, it is better than a panel failure, which can happen sooner with flexible panels.
Though I am not opposed to the idea of occasionally having to replace my solar panel, those replacements could start to add up over time because this model is on the pricey side.
Reviews From Other RVers
Other people who have used this model on their RV have had a similar experience to mine.
Users satisfied with this model have noted that it can reach and hold maximum power reliably even over time. Many also loved that it could withstand extreme weather elements and wear and tear without impacting the amount of energy it generates.
On the other hand, others noticed that the output of their units decreased over time, at times dramatically. For some, the decrease occurred after just a year of use, while for others, it took several years for the output to diminish.
Users also pointed out that while flexibility is a nice feature, over flexing the unit can cause cracks that reduce the panel’s output.
Final Thoughts
If being able to quickly put up and transport your panel is vital to you then, I recommend trying this model. The size and weight of this solar panel are unbeatable. The convenience was very much worth the price for me.
Be aware, though, that your unit will not last forever. In fact, the output may diminish quicker than you expect, depending on how much wear and tear it experiences.
So, if you are on a budget and want to invest in a solar panel with longevity, you are probably better off buying a more traditional model.
