When I travel or camp, I always bring my CPAP machine with me. That’s why I’ve been searching for a reliable way to power it during camping trips or in case of an emergency evacuation. I have some smaller lithium-ion power banks that are great for go-bags, but they don’t have the capacity to run medical devices or small appliances for long. Enter the Jackery Explorer 240 — a 240Wh power station that fits just right for my needs.
We previously reviewed smaller Jackery models in the 10-20 amp-hour range (at 5V), and they performed well, though they weren’t our top picks. The Explorer 240 is much larger than those units. It’s still portable enough to carry by hand, but definitely not something you’d throw into a backpack. We’d call it “semi-portable.â€
**Why get the Jackery Explorer 240?**
Power stations like the Explorer 240, which weigh around 6.6 pounds, make excellent emergency or outdoor prep tools. They’re small enough to recharge with portable solar panels, yet large enough to power small appliances like a mini-fridge or medical devices that require a standard AC outlet.
It’s also useful as a backup for smaller, more compact power banks. For example, you can leave the Explorer at a base camp and take smaller packs with you when venturing into the wilderness.
**Specs:**
- Capacity: 240Wh (67Ah at 14.4V)
- Weight: 6.6 lbs
- Price: $250
- Power Ports: 2x USB (5V, 2.4A), 12V car outlet, AC outlet (110V, 200W)
- Charging Ports: Proprietary input with adapters for AC wall outlet and 12V car outlet. Also compatible with Jackery's solar panel.
*Note: Jackery provided the Explorer 240 for review. As always, our reviews are unbiased and based solely on our testing.*
**Features and Functionality**
The Explorer 240 is a straightforward, no-frills power station. It’s essentially a cluster of 18650 batteries connected to basic output ports and charging circuitry. Since it’s designed for semi-portability, there are no extra features like built-in lights or rugged exteriors. This simplicity makes it more reliable and focused on its core function.
**LED Screen**
The unit has a clear LED screen that displays the current charge level and indicates which inputs or outputs are active. In one test, I used a load tester and a USB multimeter to check the performance of the USB port. The multimeter showed a 5V/2.4A draw, and the LED displayed 13W, which matched up. This wattage display is a helpful feature for managing energy use efficiently.
One of the reasons the Explorer 240 is bigger than other models is the inclusion of a 120V AC outlet. Converting DC to AC requires additional circuitry, which adds to the size of the unit.
**Buttons, Handle, and Shell**
The Explorer has small buttons to turn on and off different output ports. I tested them and confirmed they work well. This gives you more control over what you're powering without having to plug and unplug devices constantly.
The plastic shell is sturdy but not overly rugged. While it can handle general outdoor use, it’s not built for extreme conditions. At the top, there's a long carry handle, and on the bottom, four rubber feet help keep it stable on slick surfaces.
The package includes a small zippered pouch with a 12V car charger cable and an AC cable.
**Abusing the Jackery Explorer 240**
I didn’t have the equipment to do a full load test on the AC ports like I did with smaller models, so this review isn’t as technical as our big roundup. But it does include a real-world test — a six-month “torture test†that I accidentally put the Explorer through.
After receiving the unit in late November 2019, I charged it fully and placed it in a poorly sealed toolbox in the back of my truck. I forgot about it for six months, during which it was exposed to extreme temperatures — from freezing cold in Colorado to scorching heat in Texas.
I had planned to take it to Pagosa Springs for Christmas, but I completely forgot about it until recently. When I finally found it in the toolbox, I was surprised to find it still fully charged.
**Results of the 'Torture Test'**
I turned it on, and to my surprise, it was at 100% charge. I used it to power my CPAP machine (including the humidifier) for 8 hours straight, which brought it down to 33%. All the ports worked perfectly, and it recharged normally. The only damage was some scuffing on the plastic from being knocked around — otherwise, it looked almost new.
**Conclusion**
The Jackery Explorer 240 is a solid, affordable power station. After putting it through a real-world test, I have a lot of confidence in its durability and reliability. I would definitely include it in a car-based bug-out bag and recommend it as a go-to semi-portable power station in this size range.
**Jackery Explorer 240**
The Explorer 240 stands up to abuse pretty remarkably. You can take our word for it.
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