Been into Solar Chargers for the past 6 months. Interest in solar charges grew from wanting to be prepared for emergencies. The electronic devices that I have are powered through AA, AAA, and USB sources. Therefore, my focus was on finding a solar charger that can power one or any combination of the three. I was hopeful for this solar charger would be able to charge my iPhone and Sanyo Eneloop USB Battery Charger. The Sanyo Eneloop USB Battery Charger can charge either up to two AA or AAA batteries at a time. This is the review of the XTG SOL1500 Premium Solar Charger.
First, this solar charger appeared to be of quality build. It is roughly the size of an iPhone, but significantly lighter. The item arrived in new condition, well aligned, and finished nicely. Second, the solar panel is able to charge the internal Lithium Ion battery very fast. I never had the charger completely drained, but it never took more than several hours in full sun to completely charge the internal battery. Third, the device successfully charged my iPhone, iPod Shuffle, and Sanyo Eneloop USB Battery Charger. Fourth, the internal battery charge indicator is so helpful and useful. Four separate LEDs can light up to indicate 20, 50, 80, or 100% charge with a push of a button. Last is the LED light which is quite powerful and unexpected.
I would improve this device with relatively minor adjustments. First, I would not mind more capacity. Second, due to personal preference in the way I store electronic devices, I wish the lithium ion battery were removable and interchangeable. On that note, having an internal, non-removable battery sort of limits the life of the device overall. Keep in mind that these are very picky things which that would not bother most people.
Overall, I rate this XTG SOL1500 Premium Solar Charger a 4.8 out of 5.0 stars. I am very pleased with this device and would highly recommend it to friends. Most of my experience with solar chargers has been very disappointing. This is the only one, so far, that I can honestly recommend.