Let’s Talk About Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank
The Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank aims to be a convenient, all-in-one solution for charging your devices while off the grid. Marketed by Rothco, a company known for its military and tactical gear, this panel combines a 7.5W solar panel with a 5000 mAh power bank. The promise is simple: solar charging on the go with the added benefit of storing energy for later use.
My search for this product stemmed from a need for reliable power during extended backcountry trips. I needed a portable charging solution for my GPS, phone, and headlamp, without relying solely on disposable batteries. I envisioned clipping this to my pack during hikes, ensuring I always had a backup power source.
Upon unboxing, the initial impression was…underwhelming. The materials felt cheaper than expected, particularly the nylon. The overall build felt less robust than other tactical gear I’ve used. The weight was reasonable, but the overall size felt a bit bulky compared to other portable solar options.
Compared to a Goal Zero Nomad 7 (only a solar panel, no power bank), and a smaller Anker PowerCore solar-charging power bank (smaller solar input), the Rothco aimed to combine both into one MOLLE-compatible unit. The Goal Zero is more rugged, but needs a separate power bank. The Anker is smaller, but the solar charging is slow and more of a trickle charge to maintain the bank. I chose the Rothco hoping for a sweet spot of convenience and functionality.
My initial excitement was tempered by the build quality. However, I remained hopeful that it would perform adequately in the field. The concept of integrated MOLLE straps and a power bank was appealing enough to warrant further testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place during a three-day backpacking trip in the Angeles National Forest. I attached the Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank to the outside of my pack, hoping it would soak up the California sunshine. The conditions were ideal: clear skies and temperatures in the 70s.
The solar panel did generate power, albeit seemingly less than expected. I attempted to charge the power bank directly from the panel, but discovered a major flaw: the included cable was incompatible for direct solar panel to power bank charging. This completely defeated the purpose of having an integrated system.
It was frustrating to realize that I would have needed to use a different cable and charge my devices from the power bank, or directly through the solar panel, separately. I could not test the panel’s performance in charging the bank.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the panel (with a different cable), it became clear that the panel’s output was inconsistent. Even on sunny days, it struggled to fully charge the 5000 mAh power bank. Durability also became a concern. The nylon showed signs of wear after only a few trips, and the stitching on the MOLLE straps started to fray.
Maintaining the panel was relatively easy. Wiping it down with a damp cloth removed most dirt and debris. However, the flimsy construction made me hesitant to use harsh cleaning agents.
Compared to my experience with the Goal Zero Nomad 7, the Rothco disappointed in terms of solar output and durability. The Goal Zero felt much more rugged and reliable, and the panel output was notably higher in similar conditions. The Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank simply did not deliver the performance I had hoped for.
Breaking Down the Features of Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Rothco
- Charger Type: USB
- Color: Black
- Application: Camping, Outdoor, Hiking
- Fabric/Material: PET, EVA, Nylon
- Battery Capacity: 5000 mAh
- Amperage: 1.5 amps
- Solar Panel Output: 7.5W (5V, 1.5A)
These specifications, on paper, seemed adequate for basic charging needs. However, the real-world performance fell short of expectations. The 1.5A output struggled to provide a consistent charge, especially in less-than-ideal sunlight. The 5000 mAh power bank offered limited capacity for extended trips.
Performance & Functionality
The Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank‘s primary function is to provide portable solar charging. The solar panel charges connected devices through a standard USB port. It falls short in overall performance due to the low wattage and the issue with the cable.
The strengths lie in its MOLLE compatibility, allowing for easy attachment to backpacks and other gear. The weaknesses are numerous, including inconsistent solar output, questionable durability, and the frustrating cable incompatibility. It barely meets basic expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design attempts to integrate a solar panel and power bank into a compact, MOLLE-compatible package. The build quality leaves much to be desired. The materials feel cheap, and the overall construction is flimsy.
The user-friendliness is hampered by the cable issue. The layout and form factor were initially appealing, but the execution was poor.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank is questionable. The nylon material is prone to wear and tear. The stitching on the MOLLE straps feels weak.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning. However, the overall construction does not inspire confidence in its long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank comes with a single USB charging cable. However, as discovered, the included cable won’t work from solar panel to power bank. There are no customization options available. It is not easily compatible with other aftermarket accessories, due to its proprietary design.
Pros and Cons of Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank
Pros
- MOLLE compatible for easy attachment to tactical gear.
- Integrated 5000 mAh power bank for storing energy.
- Lightweight and portable design.
- USB output for charging a variety of devices.
Cons
- Incompatible cable prevents charging the power bank directly from the solar panel.
- Low solar output (7.5W) results in slow charging times.
- Questionable durability and cheap materials.
Who Should Buy Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank?
The Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank might be suitable for casual campers or hikers who need a very basic, low-power charging solution and aren’t reliant on their electronic devices. It could serve as an emergency backup in a situation where minimal charging is needed.
Those relying on their electronics or undertaking more rugged outdoor activities should avoid this product. Survivalists, serious backpackers, or anyone needing reliable power in demanding conditions will find it inadequate. A separate, higher-quality solar panel and power bank would be a much better investment.
A must-have modification would be a compatible cable to allow the solar panel to charge the power bank effectively. But, honestly, there are too many other issues to recommend investing further into this product.
Conclusion on Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank
The Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank promises convenience and portability but ultimately falls short in performance and durability. The cable incompatibility issue is a significant flaw that severely limits its usefulness.
The price of $107.89 is not justified, considering the low solar output, flimsy construction, and frustrating design flaws. You can get much better performance and durability with separate solar panels and power banks at a similar price point.
I would not personally recommend this product. The Rothco MOLLE Solar Panel w/ Power Bank fails to deliver on its promise of reliable, on-the-go solar charging. Invest in separate, higher-quality components for a more dependable power solution. Don’t be fooled by the MOLLE compatibility; this one’s a hard pass.