Let’s Talk About Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank
The Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank promises a blend of rugged durability and off-grid charging capability, a tantalizing prospect for anyone who spends time outdoors. Rothco, known for its no-nonsense tactical and outdoor gear, aims to deliver a reliable power source that can withstand the elements. This power bank boasts a waterproof ABS plastic body, a solar panel for trickle charging, and dual USB outputs to keep your devices running.
I needed a reliable power solution for extended backcountry trips where access to conventional electricity is impossible. Over the years, I’ve relied on various power banks, but I’ve always been searching for something more rugged and sustainable. The promise of solar charging, coupled with Rothco’s reputation for durability, made this a compelling option.
Out of the box, the Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank feels solid and well-built. The ABS plastic housing has a reassuring heft, and the waterproof seals appear robust. The included carabiner is a nice touch, suggesting it’s designed to be easily attached to a pack. It is clear this is a product made with rugged durability in mind.
I considered the Goal Zero Venture 35 and the Anker PowerCore Solar 10000. Ultimately, I chose the Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank due to its competitive price point and Rothco’s established presence in the tactical gear market. I was hoping for a no-frills, dependable power source that could withstand the rigors of the outdoors, and Rothco seemed like a brand that could deliver on that promise.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The build quality seemed decent, and the features were promising. I was excited to see how it would perform in real-world conditions, but I also had some reservations about the solar charging capabilities, as solar panels on power banks are often more of a novelty than a primary charging source.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank on a three-day backpacking trip in the Cascade Mountains. The weather was variable, with periods of sunshine interspersed with rain and fog. I used it to charge my smartphone (for navigation and emergency communication) and my headlamp.
The Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank held up well to the wet conditions. I also attached it to the outside of my pack, allowing it to charge in the sunlight while I hiked. Initially, it seemed very easy to use.
After the first day, the power bank had only gained a small amount of charge from the solar panel, which was not a huge surprise. Using a micro-USB, I got it back to a full charge overnight. I was, however, disappointed to see the charge level drop significantly faster than expected, especially compared to other power banks I’ve used with similar mAh ratings.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank’s performance has been consistently underwhelming. While the waterproof casing has proven reliable during rainy hikes, the solar charging is minimally effective. I often leave it in direct sunlight for hours and see only a small increase in charge.
The ABS plastic shows minimal signs of wear and tear. It’s easy enough to wipe clean, though the textured surface tends to trap dirt. The carabiner attachment point remains secure.
Compared to my previous power bank, a higher-capacity Anker model, the Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank disappoints in terms of charging speed and overall capacity. While the Rothco is more rugged, it doesn’t deliver the same level of performance when it comes to keeping my devices powered.
Breaking Down the Features of Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank
Specifications
- The Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank features an ABS plastic body, promising ruggedness and water resistance. This material choice is intended to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, making it suitable for demanding environments.
- It utilizes a 5V/1.2W monocrystalline cell solar panel, intended for trickle charging in sunlight. The monocrystalline cells are efficient at converting sunlight to energy, but the low wattage indicates slow charging times.
- The Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank comes equipped with dual USB outputs and a 5V 1,000mAh input. This allows for charging two devices simultaneously, while the standard input allows for charging via a wall adapter or other USB power source.
- It contains a 3.7V 5,000mAh lithium polymer battery, a common battery chemistry for power banks. This battery type provides a decent balance of energy density and safety.
- A micro USB charging cable and carabiner are included.
These specifications suggest a product designed for basic power needs in outdoor settings. The low wattage of the solar panel means it’s best used as a supplementary charging method, not a primary one. The waterproof ABS plastic is reassuring, but the actual capacity of the battery is relatively small compared to other power banks on the market.
Performance & Functionality
The Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank performs adequately as a basic power bank, but falls short of expectations regarding solar charging. The dual USB outputs function as intended, delivering power to devices, but the 5,000mAh capacity is quickly depleted.
The biggest weakness is the solar charging, which is painfully slow, often providing only a few percentage points of charge after hours in direct sunlight. The waterproof design works well, however I have doubts about how it would handle prolonged submersion. It meets basic power needs, but doesn’t excel in any particular area.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank features a utilitarian design. The ABS plastic body is tough and the carabiner attachment point is convenient for attaching it to a backpack.
The power bank feels somewhat bulky for its capacity. There’s no learning curve; it’s simple to use, but not particularly ergonomic or visually appealing.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank seems reasonably durable, thanks to its ABS plastic construction. The waterproof seals appear well-made and should provide adequate protection against rain and splashes.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. How long it will last depends on usage and environmental conditions, but the build quality suggests it should withstand moderate wear and tear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank comes with a micro USB charging cable and a carabiner. There are no other included accessories or customization options.
The power bank is a self-contained unit and isn’t designed to be customized with aftermarket accessories. Compatibility is limited to standard USB charging cables.
Pros and Cons of Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank
Pros
- Waterproof ABS plastic body provides good protection against the elements.
- The included carabiner allows for easy attachment to backpacks and other gear.
- Dual USB outputs enable charging two devices simultaneously.
- The rugged construction makes it suitable for outdoor use in demanding environments.
- The low price point compared to competitors may be enticing to some consumers.
Cons
- The solar charging is very slow and inefficient.
- The 5,000mAh battery capacity is relatively small compared to other power banks.
- The design is bulky and utilitarian.
Who Should Buy Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank?
The Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a basic, rugged power source for short trips. It’s also suitable for individuals who prioritize waterproof construction and don’t rely heavily on solar charging.
This product should be skipped by anyone who needs a high-capacity power bank or expects substantial solar charging capabilities. It’s not suitable for extended expeditions or situations where consistent and rapid charging is essential.
A must-have modification would be to find some way to add a higher capacity battery, and improve the efficiency of the solar panel.
Conclusion on Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank
The Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank offers a mixed bag of features and performance. While the waterproof construction and rugged design are appealing, the weak solar charging and limited battery capacity hold it back.
The price is relatively low compared to other rugged power banks, but the performance doesn’t quite justify the cost, especially if you’re relying on solar charging. It’s an adequate backup power source, but not a primary one.
I would recommend it with reservations. If you need a basic, waterproof power bank for short trips and don’t expect much from the solar charging, it might be a decent option. Otherwise, consider investing in a higher-capacity power bank with more efficient charging capabilities. Consider carefully before investing in the Rothco Waterproof Solar Power Bank, and think about whether it fits with the intended use case.