Ulike Sapphire AIR+ Dark Green IPL hair removal handset review – shining a light on hair removal

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REVIEW – What is it about hair? It seems to not grow where you want it to and then, it grows where you don’t want it to. While I can’t help with growing hair, I can shine a light on hair removal – literally. The Ulike Sapphire AIR+ Dark Green IPL hair removal handset uses light to permanently zap away hair from areas you want to be silky smooth.

What is it?

The Ulike Sapphire AIR+ Dark Green IPL hair removal handset is an IPL hair removal device. What is IPL? Let’s see what their website says.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and laser are the two of the most common hair removal methods. Both principles convert light energy into heat energy, eliminate hair follicles, and thus slow down hair regrowth. The similarity between them is that both methods must be used periodically to achieve the desired effects. The critical difference is that laser hair removal requires professional operation and frequent trips to beauty salons to achieve long-lasting results. In comparison, IPL hair removal is much safer. It does not damage your skin and can be safely operated by anyone. IPL is the most convenient choice for removing hair at home.

So there you have it. This is an at-home device that uses intense light to rid you of pesky hair that grows in places you don’t want it to.

What’s in the box?

• Ulike Sapphire AIR+ Dark Green IPL hair removal handset
• Power supply box with handset cord
• Power cord
• Shaver
• Authenticity card with hologram
• User manual
• Protective glasses (with case)

Hardware specs

• Dimensions: 6.6″ x 2.6″ x 1.4″
• Weight: 9.9 oz
• Power adapter: 3.3″ x 3.3″ x 1.3″
• Power cords:
  • Wall-to-power adapter: 37″
  • Power adapter-to-unit: 58″
• Treatment window: 1.25″ x 0.5″ (0.625 sq in)

Design and features

Normally, I don’t show packaging photos because, well, it’s the packaging. In this case, I’m going to as the Ulike Sapphire AIR+ Dark Green IPL hair removal handset packaging is exceptionally nice. I’d say that you would wow a gift recipient with this as the packaging is so nice. That is, of course, you have a gift recipient in your life that wouldn’t cringe getting a gift that essentially says, “you’re a little too hairy”.

The package itself is nicely wrapped.

Inside, we find a leather (or really good fake leather – I’m not sure) wrapped box.

Inside that box, we see the device as well as a leather cover over the power supply.

There is also a small leather-wrapped box that holds the protective glasses.

Since I just mentioned the glasses, let’s take a quick look.

The glasses fold into a compact package for storage. Unfolding them reveals full-coverage protective glasses.

The Ulike Sapphire AIR+ Dark Green IPL hair removal handset itself is hefty and solid. It is dark green with rose gold colored accents

That rectangle is the activation button. There is a hidden white LED near the activation button. The unit will only activate when the treatment window is pressed completely against the skin. When it is properly placed, the LED will illuminate, indicating that the unit will fire. In the photo below, I have the unit just above my left on the left and then pressed in place on the right. You can see the white light on the right.

The back has ventilation holes for the cooling system.

One side features the serial number.

The other side has the power button that also doubles as the power level button.

When the Ulike Sapphire AIR+ Dark Green IPL hair removal handset is on, this button changes power level settings as follows:

• 1-2-3-4-5-4-3-2-1

The level is displayed by a series of crescent moon icons – below, you can see 5-4-3-2-1 from left to right. There is also a snowflake icon indicating that the cooling system is activated.

The business end of the device has a faceted window where the pulsed light is delivered.

The opposite end of the device is where the power cord gets connected.

That cord runs to the power supply. It is also finished in the same dark green and rose gold color scheme. Here, you can see where the AC power cord gets plugged in.

The bottom has non-slip feet to keep it from sliding around.

Setup

Plug the AC cord into the wall and the power supply and then plug the power supply cord into the unit and you’re good to go.

Performance

Let’s start with a video of this in action and then we’ll discuss what’s happening.

What you’re watching is my lovely wife zapping pesky neck hair. She cuts my hair, or what’s left of my hair. One of her annoyances is the hair that grows below my natural hairline down on my neck.

Since that is still mostly dark hair, it seemed like the perfect candidate for IPL treatment. Why does it matter that it is dark? IPL treatment doesn’t work well on all hair colors. The darker the hair, the more effective the treatment. IPL treatment is also not recommended for those with very dark skin as the light pulse could damage dark skin.

Results are also not instant. On Ulike’s website, the following treatment plan is listed:

• Three times per week for the first month
• Two times per week for the next two months
• One time every two to four weeks thereafter to maintain results

So…this isn’t permanent hair removal per se. But, it is supposed to significantly eliminate hair growth with minimal maintenance effort.

When I initially turned the Ulike Sapphire AIR+ Dark Green IPL hair removal handset on, I noticed that the treatment window fogged up.

I thought that was odd. I was testing on a typically humid day here in central Florida. When I touched the window, I was surprised at how cold it felt. It turns out this is a big differentiator between Ulike’s unit and the competition. Ulike has a proprietary cooling system that chills the window and treatment panel to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This perceived chill offsets the perceived heat from each pulse, making the treatment much more comfortable. The other thing to note in the photo above is that the window is flush with the plate, bringing the light source right up to the skin. Our daughter has another IPL unit and the treatment window sits about a quarter of an inch into the unit so the light source is farther above the skin. It doesn’t sound like a lot, but it does make a difference in energy delivery.

I mentioned earlier that there are five treatment intensity levels. Their suggested uses by intensity level are:

1. Face
2. Bikini area
3. Armpits
4. Arms
5. Legs

I tried them all and determined that level 5 was a bit too intense for my neck. Level four produced a mild pin-prick sensation, but with the cooling system, it was barely noticeable.

To use the IPL unit, you can either push the button to produce a pulse or hold the button down and the unit will fire every couple of seconds.

The other thing I should note is that you need to shave the area before treating it. Ulike thoughtfully includes a small shaving kit in case you don’t have any shaving tech.

So, all this sounds neat, but…does it actually do anything? I’m happy to say…yes!

My wife cut my hair and shaved that nasty neck hair. From that point, we started treating using the Ulike Sapphire AIR+ Dark Green IPL hair removal handset for the recommended three times per week schedule for the first month. At my next haircut, four weeks later, I had her make a close inspection and she reported that there was little to no hair growth.

Here is a repeat of the “before” photo from above. You can see all those black hairs on my neck.

And here’s the “after” photo one month later.

As my wife cut my hair, she was thrilled that there was no need to shave my neck. If you look closely, you can see that none of those pesky black hairs from the before photo are there, and there was no shaving involved – just IPL treatment.

My wife started experimenting with IPL treatment on her legs and underarms. One issue she has is that her hair is extremely fine and light – not exactly in the sweet spot for IPL treatment. Even with that caveat, she noticed a significant difference in hair growth. The hair on her underarms has essentially disappeared. Her legs, however, are another story. The hair is so light and fine that it doesn’t seem to be affected by IPL treatment. That’s not surprising based on the chart of effective treatment scenarios above.

It worked so well on the back of my neck that I decided to continue around the front. I hate shaving below my chin. I use an electric razor and the hair grows every which way. It is a big pain to get every single hair with my razor. Since I have no intention of ever growing a beard, I started zapping that area using the Ulike Sapphire AIR+ Dark Green IPL hair removal handset with mixed results. First, the rogue dark twisty hairs are all gone. Woo! But, the general growth is still there. Boo. Why? I’m 63 and that hair is all gray. Check the chart. IPL doesn’t zap gray hair. If I started IPL treatment a few years ago, I would have been golden, so alas, I’ll still be shaving that area daily. But, the absence of the goofy, twisty, dark hair has certainly made my shaving experience easier.

What I like

• Easy to use
• The multiple power levels make this great for all areas from tough to sensitive
• The cooling tech does help with overall comfort
• Outstanding packaging makes this an excellent gift for that hairy friend

What I’d change

• There is exceedingly minor discomfort during treatment – I expect that most everyone won’t find it objectionable, especially with the excellent cooling system – but if you’re exceptionally sensitive, just be aware of it
• To get IPL treatment to work, it takes a commitment to follow the treatment regimen – not that this is an item to change, but something to be aware of – it takes a commitment
• IPL treatment does require continuing treatment but once a month is still better than shaving daily or every few days
• IPL treatment doesn’t work for every skin and hair color – again, not a product flaw but something to be aware of before spending the cash

Final thoughts

I wasn’t sure what to expect from a device like the Ulike Sapphire AIR+ Dark Green IPL hair removal handset. I have to admit that I am surprised and pleased with the results. It has certainly cleaned up the nasty, curly hair on the back of my neck and improved my shaving experience on the front of my neck. It has also eliminated the need for my wife to shave her underarms. Unfortunately, it didn’t her on her legs, but her hair is so light and fine, it never is much of an issue anyway.

I can see this as a great fit for anyone that hates shaving. It could be a huge plus for bodybuilders that need to rid themselves of hair for competitions. It is an affordable in-home treatment tool that gets results. If you are looking for a more-or-less permanent hair removal solution and you meet the skin and hair color profile for effective treatment, the Ulike Sapphire AIR+ IPL hair removal system should be on your radar. Just be careful if you gift one to your sasquatch-like friend.

Price: $359.00
Where to buy: Ulike and Amazon (Coupon Code: GADGETEERUKE + 7% off on-page coupon to bring the price down to $251.00 expires 2023/2/7 23:59 PST)
Source: The sample of this product was provided by Ulike.

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REVIEW – If you’re a gamer, you’re probably familiar with lengthy gaming sessions’ many aches and pains. I’m talking about sore elbows, tingling hands, and back and neck soreness. I recently reviewed a pillow made by gamers for gamers. The Valari Gaming pillow promises to take the pain out of your game. Let’s see how it did for mine.

What is it?

The Valari gaming pillow is built to expressly relieve back, neck, and shoulder pain gamers experience during long gaming sessions.

What’s in the box?

• Valari gaming pillow
• Cover

Design and features

The Valari pillow comes vacuum sealed and needs to expand for at least an hour before putting the cover on. The pillow is filled with premium Dacron polyfill and is machine washable.

Valari sent me their Legendary Limited Edition Oni pillow to review. The Legendary Edition comes in a two-tone suede-like fabric with a brushed metal clip. They also make a Rare Edition Pillow in a single-color plush fabric and a plastic buckle.

The pillow’s cover is pieced together by hand, and the material has a suede-like texture. I like the red and black color scheme, and the gold piping around the outside finishes it nicely.

But the best part of the design is the Oni mask embroidered on the cover. If you’re unfamiliar, the Oni Masks depict red-faced Japanese demons that typically feature two horns and an angry expression. These scary Oni demons ward off evil and protect their users from bad luck and harm. I have always been fascinated with these masks, and who couldn’t use a little luck while gaming. The embroidery work is very colorful and extremely well done.

The pillow also features a hidden zipper and a brushed metal clip.

Getting the pillow into the cover was a little struggle, mainly because the zipper and the opening are a little on the small side. I managed to get the pillow into the cover without issue. But a larger opening and zipper would be nice.

The Valari Gaming pillow resembles an oversized neck pillow. However, it is meant to go around your waist. The idea behind the design is to offer support to your forearms and elbows, providing you with the perfect posture for your favorite activity.

Overall, the quality and design of the Valari Gaming pillow are excellent. The suede material is very soft, and the stitching, including the embroidery, is exceptional. And it offers just enough support without being stiff, heavy, or bulky.

Performance

I have to say that I am very impressed with the Valari Gaming pillow as a whole. I could feel a difference from the first time I used it while gaming. It feels natural and not in the way and does a great job of supporting my elbows and hands. Usually, after a couple hours of gaming, my elbows would get sore, and my hands would tingle. Using the Valari Gaming Pillow, I didn’t have any of these issues. It also did the job of eliminating ‘Gamers Lean.’ So no more neck and shoulder soreness.

And it’s not just for gaming. I love using it for other activities, like using my phone and iPad Air.

Another feature of the Valari Gaming Pillow is when I’m not using it, I can twist it up and set it aside.

What I like

• Quality construction
• Comfortable

What I’d change

• Larger zipper and opening

Final thoughts

The Valari Gaming Pillowreader

Price: $69.00
Where to buy: Valari and Amazon
Source: The sample for this review was provided by Valari.

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REVIEW – Look how tired I am! I’ve been testing the LIT Strength Machine, a multifunctional rowing machine that serves as a platform for all sorts of full-body workouts. Cardio, strength training, barre, pilates, rowing… this machine claims to do it all. Let’s see how it works in practice. To the review!

What is it?

The LIT Strength Machine is a water-driven rowing machine that includes multiple attachment points and accessories that turn it into an exercise platform for strength development, pilates, cardio, and physical therapy.

What’s in the box?

LIT Method offers the Strength Trainer in a number of different packages. My test kit came the rowing machine & tablet attachment, but the base resistance band kit was upgraded to the LIT Axis resistance bands which I will be reviewing separately. See “Accessories and Upgrades” below for more information on the different package options.

Hardware Specs

• 7′ long by by 1.75′ wide by 1.6′ tall
• 70 pounds assembled (added water brings the total weight to 89 pounds)
• 450 pound weight limit
• Steel frame with steel/aluminum construction

Design and features

The LIT Strength Machine is a heavy-duty unit, built on a steel frame that still comes in at a relatively lightweight 70 pounds before adding water. Your journey begins with assembling the beastie. The good news here is that the main body is pre-assembled. You’ll add the seat, the seat rail, and the rear foot of the unit with a couple of screws and caps.

You’ll also do some light assembly for the tablet/phone holder, which in my unit comes as an attachment to the body. This piece has different brackets to accommodate different sized devices from phones to larger tablets.

After reviewing a number of different exercise machines recently, I was pleasantly surprised by the detail the LIT Method folks put into simplifying the assembly process here. There is a set of video tutorials available online in addition to printed instructions. All the machining is precise and tight. All the tools you need are included. It’s 15 minutes from start to finish and you’re ready to add water. Completed assembly shots below:

The LIT Strength Machine is a water rower, using a tank full of water to provide resistance that feels more like natural rowing. You’ll need to fill that tank with 19 pounds of water to get started. A manual pump is provided with the kit along with treatment tablets that you can drop in if the water gets cloudy over time. I decided to fill mine with distilled water, and found that I used just under 4 gallons to meet the water line on the side of the tank (again, a video is available for filling instructions if you prefer).

This is a remarkably solid, sturdy unit. That thick frame anchors the entire assembly for a firmly planted feel. Every part feels over-engineered for long-term reliability. The beefy foot platforms, for example, are built into the frame. You can also adjust the strap position for a wide range of foot sizes.

Here’s a close-up of the base at the front of the unit. While the size & bulk look intimidating, you can easily lift it up from the back end, roll it on those wheels to a corner, and store it standing up. The sealed water tank doesn’t lose a drop of water in this process.

A thick nylon webbed strap drives the action, anchored by the burly contoured handle with rubber grips for sweaty hands.

The seat is comfortably padded with a long rail designed for users up to 6’9″ tall. Add in the adjustable foot pads and 400 pound weight limit and you’ll find that this device will easily accommodate larger humans.

The watery heart of the LIT Strength Machine uses a unique two-chambered tank that enables 4 different levels of resistance (10 pounds to 40 pounds) by moving water between the inside and outside chamber. You switch the dial and get moving, and the water transition happens as you row.

You’re also going to find a number of D-rings that are part of the frame. See them in the pic below? Look to the base, right next to the end caps on those horizontal base bars.

There are four pairs of these attachment points (two more on the back foot at the end of the seat rail) that you’ll use to connect your resistance bands for more exercise options that work on the machine or use the machine as a base platform.

The LIT Strength Machine comes with an impressive warranty that covers the frame for life and the parts for 5 years. A pack of chlorine tablets is also included with your purchase; you’ll drop one in every year to keep your water clear.

The LIT On Demand Digital Platform

The LIT On Demand Platform is a subscription-based service that provides access to tutorials, live classes, thousands of on-demand classes, performance measurement, and cumulative performance analytics. Note that I am using the app on my iPad in these screenshots. I’m also using the “Pro” membership, which includes access to the LIT Axis and Strength Machine program sets (I’m reviewing the LIT Axis Smart Resistance Bands separately), so some screenshots may differ based on your subscription type.

You’ll start by putting in some basic data (age, height, weight) and exercise goals. Your home screen will be populated with recommended workouts based on your preferences and your ongoing program usage.

Keep scrolling to see your cumulative history including your workouts and cumulative achievements. Note that this data includes information from the LIT Axis, which is available as an add-on in some packages. I do not have the heart monitor in my test kit, but that adds even more performance data if you buy it.

There are thousands of programs available in categories such as strength training, endurance/cardio, flexibility, upper body, abs, pilates, recovery, etc. You can browse the categories or apply a robust filtering system to narrow your choices by duration, intensity, equipment type, and more.

Exercise programs may include combinations of rowing, bodyweight mat work, and/or using the resistance bands that you connect to the base of the LIT Strength Trainer. You can pick and choose which options you want with the filters.

Once you choose a class, the format is pretty standard. You get a summary of the class that includes reviews from other members. You’ll also get the opportunity to connect the Bluetooth sensors here for the LIT Axis and/or heart monitor if you have those options.

Now your program begins. They all follow a consistent format. The infographic in the upper left shows the focus of the program. You get a timer with a pause/resume feature, and your measurements of activity at the bottom of the screen. The instructor begins each program with a brief orientation and warm up. Then you’ll go to work and finish with a stretch/cooldown.

As you complete the classes you’ll see the recorded results and get an opportunity to provide feedback on the class. You’ll also see a little gamification happening in the form of badges that you accumulate as you hit milestones like number of classes and weight lifted.

There is a whole lot more to cover in the app including “open gym” workouts and progressive programs you can work through that build on intensity and variety to work towards specific goals. The LIT Method team is continually tweaking the interface and adding new features to add value & performance.

The On Demand Platform for the LIT Strength Machine starts at $24.99 a month, with a discount for an annual subscription.

Accessories & Upgrades

The LIT Method Strength Trainer base unit includes a pair of resistance bands with handles and ankle cuffs that enable you to do the majority of the programs available through the LIT Method App. Available upgrades and accessories include:

• Upgrading the bands to the LIT Axis Smart Resistance bands (which I am reviewing separately);
• A strength bar for squats, deadlifts, and bench presses;
• Speed bands, which operate like battle ropes that you attach to the strength trainer
• A heart monitor that pairs withe the app
• Floor mats
• Power bands for increased resistance

These items are available in bundled packages at initial purchase, or you can purchase specific items separately. Check the web site (link below) for available options.

Performance

I recently tested a rowing machine that I thought was pretty good… until I compared it to the LIT Strength Machine. Here’s a shot of them side by side. You’re paying quite a bit more for the LIT unit, but you can see the difference in the design and build. Heavier framing and beefier components are clearly apparent. It also translates to performance; the LIT Strength Machine was much more stable and planted in my tests. The rowing action was also smoother & more comfortable. My family members all commented that they felt the LIT Strength Machine was better to work with for extended periods of time.

You’ll also feel a significant difference in the 4 resistance levels as you move from 10 pounds of resistance to 40 pounds depending on the program you’re running. It’s no joke!

While the LIT Strength Machine is a solid performer on its own as a rowing machine, the real value happens when you combine the rower, the resistance bands, and the programs available through the LIT On Demand Platform. The LIT Method team gets super creative at providing a surprisingly deep & varied set of programs that will test you and your limits, regardless of experience or fitness level. Standard rowing, of course, is on the menu.

But most programs don’t just hammer you with constant rowing! You’ll work in a variety of different exercises to work different muscle groups, depending on what you’re after. Different types of rows, for example, change angles or switch to an underhand grip.

You’ll also see a lot of isolation moves for strength like high rows, low rows, or shoulder raises like I am demonstrating here.

Here’s an example of one handed rows with a twist for core engagement.

You want bicep curls? A number of programs work these into your routine. They REALLY get tough if you up the level of resistance…

You’ll also see a bunch of options that integrate the resistance bands into your programs, using the different anchor points on the LIT Strength Trainer. This program had me mixing in rowing sequences with squat/rows off the machine.

This one was from a chest workout that incorporated one-armed flys. The anchor points remain stable as you work your way around the LIT Strength Machine, even when you step away from the unit for more resistance.

This is just a sampling of the 500+ different exercises that the LIT Method folks claim work 86% of your body’s muscles in one form or another. I believe it. I’ve seen programs that use the seat for ab rollouts or plank/pike routines, ab crunches from the rowing position, chest presses with the bands (seated, facing the rear of the machine), and much more. You’ll continually find new things to explore.

The LIT in the name stands for “Low Impact Training,” and that’s a key element of the program design here. One of their mottoes is “no running, no jumping, no weights.” You’re going to work as hard, but the low-impact nature of the programs and tools enables you to continually challenge yourself in different ways while building on your previous results.

The variety of programs also allows you to get really creative with your time and objectives. I find myself continually switching things up with different program lengths, body part focuses, and intensities. I particularly like combining different programs in the same session for more variety. I also find that there are a number of progressive programs you can use to learn new exercise programs (like pilates) and develop your skills over time.

I’ve been very pleased with the overall performance of the LIT Strength Machine, with only two minor nitpicks. One is that the resistance dial can be a reach when you’re locked into the rower (I’m 5’10”), so you gotta stretch a bit. I also find that the tablet holder on my model is a little clunky with the armature. It looks like an aftermarket design, and can wobble a little bit. On their web site the newer models for the LIT Strength Trainer seem to have corrected this by putting it on a bracket positioned above the center frame bar.

What I like

• Outstanding construction and build quality
• Water-based rower provides smooth & comfortable action
• Outstanding On Demand app
• Versatile device that enables hundreds of exercises with the appropriate accessories
• Bluetooth enabled accessories provide actionable analytics

What I’d change

• No major issues to be had!

Final thoughts

The LIT Strength Trainer is pretty great as a rowing machine on its own, but I think the real value here is when you combine it with the accessories and the On Demand platform as a complete fitness solution. I skipped the weights and other cardio options for a month to use this setup exclusively and have been very happy with my progress. I’m learning new things, and I’m continually finding new ways to challenge myself. It’s an expensive investment, but the results have been worth it in my testing so far!

I noted earlier that the LIT Method team is continually tweaking the products and the online program, so you may see updates to both that are not reflected here. I’d check the website at the link below for the latest on product offerings and pricing.

Price: Packages start at $2,000 (various accessory packages available). The On Demand Platform membership starts at $24.99 a month.
Where to buy: Go to the product page at the LIT Method web site
Source: The sample of this product was provided by LIT Method.

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NEWS – Do you shy away from carrying a full-sized pocket knife but still would like a small blade for daily light-duty cutting tasks like opening packages? Then check out the KeyUnity KK00 Keychain Pocket Knife. It’s made of Ti-6Al-4v titanium with a 25mm razor sharp 5Cr15Mov steel blade. This mini knife features a folding design with a hook that you can use to hang the knife from your belt loop, backpack, etc. If you want to add it to your EDC gear collection, head over to Amazon where it’s $25.99.

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NEWS – Even though I know how to use the Heimlich maneuver to help a choking victim to dislodge food from their airway, I’ve never had to use it. A couple of the drawbacks to using it is that it can be difficult to do and it can’t be used on babies or toddlers. LifeVac is a device that can safely be used on children over 22 pounds, it’s easy to use, and it’s faster.

You place the mask over the person’s mouth and nose to create a seal, push down on the handle, and then pull up. I know what you’re thinking. “It’s like a mouth plunger.” Yeeeaahh, and so it is, with one exception: it has a one-way valve so that when you push on the handle, the air escapes out of the device without pushing food further into the trachea. When you pull the handle, it then pulls the food out of the airway.

Here is a demonstration of the LifeVac:

LifeVac has thousands of reviews on Amazon and seems to be well-received by customers (4.8 stars out of 5).

If you don’t have one, you can purchase a LifeVac Home Kit from Amazon for $79.99 which includes an adult mask, a child’s mask, an adult mask for practicing, the suction device, and an instruction guide. There is also a LifeVac Travel Kit available on Amazon for $79.99 which includes a travel case, an adult mask, a child’s mask, the suction device, and an instruction guide but seems to be missing the additional adult mask for practicing.

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REVIEW – Ever had your power go out for a couple of days? It can be scary, costly, and even dangerous. If you’re into camping or hitting the road in an RV you also know how precious power can be. I’m in California and between extreme weather events and increased demand on the power grid, blackouts aren’t uncommon. I had been looking for a backup solution for a while and recently got the opportunity to review the Pecron E1500 Pro Portable Power Station along with one of their Aurora 200W Solar Panels, so here we go…

What is it?

The Pecron E1500 Pro is a 1450W capacity battery power station with both AC and DC outputs and a wireless charger along with multiple ways to recharge it. One to four of Pecron’s own solar panels can be used to charge the Pecron E1500 Pro, with each additional panel further reducing the charge time.

What’s in the boxes?

Pecron E1500 Pro

• Pecron E1500 Pro
• AC Charging Cable
• MC 4 Solar Charging Cable
• Car Charging Cable
• Anderson Solar Charging Cable
• 12V Cable w/ Alligator Clips
• Storage Bag

Pecron Aurora Solar Panel

• Aurora Solar Panel
• Output Cable

Hardware specs

Model: E1500 Pro Power: 2000W Rated | 4000W Peak Battery Type: Lithium-ion Capacity: 1450Wh AC Output: 100 ~ 200V Pure Sine Wave DC Output: 30A (12V) Outputs: AC and DC AC outlets (3) | DC 12V (1) XT60, (1) Aux, (1) 5525 Barrel USB (3) A @ 5v/2A | (1) A @ 18W Max | (1) C 100W Max | (1) C 18W Max | Wireless charger 15w AC Input: AC 100~120V / 60Hz Pure Sine Wave Car Input: DC 12~18V 100W Max Solar Input: Voc 12-18V 100W/7A Max (5521 port) | Voc 32-95V 800W/15A Max (GX16MF port) Cycle Life: 1,000+ cycles to 80% Dimensions: 14.8 x 9.4 x 10.6″ | 33lbs (15kg)

Model: Aurora 200
Power: 200W Rated | 36V | 5.55A Working Current
Dimensions: 28 x 19 x 3″ Folded | 82 x 28 x 1′ Unfolded

Design and features

The Pecron E1500 Pro power station

All input and output ports are on the front panel along with the information display and the on/off controls. Here are some closer images of all those connections…

And of the display during the power-on cycle where you can see all of the possible info locations…

The underside has the always required product label.

The top side of the Pecron E1500 Pro power station has two large carry handles on each side which is very helpful due to it’s near 33lb weight. Additionally, there is a prominently placed wireless charger right in the center of the top capable of up to 15w.

The Aurora Solar Panel comes in a self-contained folded case that reminded me of an artist’s portfolio.

Unfolded, it takes up a good bit more space which is exactly what you need with solar panels.

Setup

The varied use cases for a power station like the Pecron E1500 Pro power station are a bit different than for standard consumer electronics. It then follows that the setup is also a bit different. Regardless of what you’re planning to use it for, you’ll want to have it charged and ready.

The fastest, around 90 minutes is, is to connect the AC input cable to a wall outlet and the AC input on the E1500 Pro. Alternatively, you can use the car charging cable which will take significantly longer (around 18 hours). Could be a good solution if you’re actively driving on a road trip though. The final option, if you’ve got access to open spaces and a lot of sunshine, is to connect one or more of the Aurora 200 Solar Panels.

Pecron’s Aurora 200W Solar Panels have a zippered pocket on the back that contains a long tethered output cable.

This connects directly to the GX16MF input port on the E1500 Pro via the MC4 Solar Charging Cable for a single panel. If using 2 panels, the positive and negative connections require different configurations. Separately available Y-Branch charging cables are required if using 3 or 4 panels as inputs.

To set up one of the solar panels, unclip the buckles and unfold them to expose the panels. On the back of each panel, there is a velcro retained stand you’ll need to release and unfold. It’s tricky to unfold them all as tilting the panels forward can cause them to close again. Just go slow and keep some tension on the ones you just deployed while you open the next one. When finished, it should look like this.

It’s important that the panels face the sun, and that you avoid placing them where shadows will be cast on the surface as the sun’s position changes. Charging time is greatly dependent on constant sun exposure. Shadows, clouds, and anything similar will knock down or completely stop output to the battery. This example here shows a shadow on the leftmost panel which definitely affected the output.

Connect the cable to the Pecron E1500 Pro power station and the display will automatically kick on and show data on the power it’s receiving.

To use, connect an appliance or device you need to charge to the appropriate port on the front. Turn on the E1500 Pro by pressing and holding either the AC or DC power switch. The screen with flash illuminating all the info and then settle in to show you just the information you need. To turn off, press and hold the same switch again.

Performance

So I’m happy to report that since receiving the Pecron E1500 Pro power station I have not experienced any power outages, however, that doesn’t exactly help the review scenario. What I was able to do is validate the claims that this will power almost all electric home appliances. It ran our big Samsung refrigerator without an issue. Same for the toaster, coffee maker, and other small appliances. Obviously, the larger and more power-hungry the appliance, the shorter the runtime will be. Pecron estimates running an 800w fridge for only about 1.6 hours. You’d want to be judicious with what you’re powering if you’ve got a long outage on your hands.

I was surprised at how long it can take to charge with solar. The simple truth is the more panels the better. My planned usage is as a backup power source in an outage. In this scenario, it’s easiest (and fastest) to charge from an AC wall outlet and then store the unit, checking on its charge level every couple of months and topping it off when necessary.

I did notice that the Gadgeteer’s own Bill Henderson reviewed an earlier version of the E1500 back in June of last year. A lot of the things he wished for have been addressed in this Pro update like adding 4 additional USB ports including 2 USB-Cs. One of those can now power your 60w laptop at full speed 21 times. That’s a lot of juice! That charging brick in his review is now built-inside and there are fans on both sides to help reduce heat when needed.

What I like

• Lots of backup power
• Really fast to charge up with AC, and clean solar when you have the need
• Can pretty much power any of your electric home appliances

What I’d change

• Would like to see a bi-stable hinge on the solar panels to keep the support legs locked in the deployed position

Final thoughts

There’s a lot to like about the Pecron E1500 Pro power station and you likely have a houseful of things that you’ll be able to keep charged in a pinch. You may not need one of these often, but the peace of mind it brings is pretty valuable, especially at the current sales price.

Prices: All variants are currently on sale for 25% off
$1,599 $1,199 as tested – E1500 Pro + 200W Solar Panel
$1,199 $899 – E1500 Pro
$1,999 $1,499 – E1500 Pro + (2) 200W Solar Panels
$2,699 $2,099 – E1500 Pro + (4) 200W Solar Panels
Where to buy: Pecron and Amazon
Source: The sample of this product was provided by Pecron.