While preparing for a camping trip to Yellowstone and realizing how many gadgets and gizmos we all had, I decided to try out the Soladec as it was one of the only portable solar chargers out there with a decent high-output solar cell. Surprisingly, it works right out of the box since it has its own internal battery, which in turn is charged by solar power. Being a gadgets guy, I've had my share of solar chargers, none of which impressed me but after using the Soladec for four days in the wild, I can honestly say my faith in solar powered chargers is renewed!
Build Quality - sturdy construction and the solar cell glass feels tough enough to survive a drop.
LED Light - Be forewarned,BRIGHTER THAN YOU THINK! Very bright, comparable to higher-end flashlights.
Usage - After charging it in the sun all day, I still had enough juice to fully charge my iphone4, my nephews PSP, and had enough to use the built-in light for a few hours around at night. The higher output solar cell is a drastic difference to cheaper made-in-china chargers that can barely charge your phone halfway.
Compatibility - As soon as I got the Soladec, I immediately tested it with all the devices we would bring, ( which all worked): PSP, iPhone4, Kindle3, Garmin GPS, and an ipod nano.
The Soladec is by far the most functional solar powered charger that actually works and would gladly recommend it to anyone!
***UPDATE*** 3/29/2012
After a few months of rough trips through desert and mountains, glad to report that it still runs like its fueled by plutonium and fairy dust. I use it here and there but its a must-bring for our camping trips being our primary light and power source at night. For heavy use, you would have to charge it throughout the day in direct sun light to "fill up the tank". Also, after a some tossing around, some of the silver paint has faded but it still works just as well as it did on the first day. Seeing ours, a few of our frequent camping friends have even purchased one and i'm sure they too will gladly recommend it!