Jackery SolarSaga 100W is an ultralight 100-watt portable solar panel that claims an efficiency of 25%. It offers two USB ports, and magnetic closures allow you to fold the panel in seconds and store it in your motorhome. How much power does the compact solar power station actually generate? Is the solar bag robust enough to survive several days at a crowded campsite? Our detailed review of the Jackery Solar Saga 100W will answer your questions.
Jackery Solar Panel at a glance
At first, Jackery is perfect for transporting in cars and motorhomes. When folded, the solar module measures only 61 cm x 53.5 cm x 3.5 cm and weighs just 4.69 kg. The SolarSaga 100 fits in any vehicle. This makes the solar panel particularly suitable for mobile use (camping, fishing, picnics). Besides, the panel features a convenient carrying handle. However, this product could be too large for your backpack.
Secondly, the robust EFTE material makes it resistant to scratches and breakage, extending the lifespan of the solar panel. The striking orange colour protects against unexpected collisions with the panel. Also, it is IP68 water-resistant, which will protect it from water splashing. However, you mustn’t place it in the rain or soak it in water. The zippers on the pocket can hold the power cords and cover the power port.
On the other hand, smartphones, notebooks, power banks and speakers can be charged directly via the integrated USB-A or USB-C port with a maximum power of 15 watts. Also, you can charge a power station with a maximum of 100 watts of green solar power via the 8 mm DC plug on the 3-meter-long charging cable.
Finally, you can easily set it up and dismantle it in only 10 seconds, thanks to its magnetic closures and the two kickstands that can be placed firmly on any surface.
Tech Specs
| Weight | 7.9 lbs (3.6 kg) |
| Warranty | 3+2 Years |
| Waterproof | IP68 |
| Efficiency rate | 25% |
| Operating temperature | -4℉~149℉ (-20°C~65°C) |
| Protection Class Against Electric Shock | Class II |
| Folded | 24 x 21.7 x 1.4 in (61 x 55.2 x 3.5 cm) |
| Unfolded | 48.0 x 21.7 x 0.8 in (122 x 55.2 x 2.0 cm) |
Download the user manual here
Jackery SolarSaga 100W: Top Features Explained
High-Efficiency Monocrystalline Solar Cells
The Jackery SolarSaga 100W, as the name suggests, delivers a peak power of 100 watts. This panel features monocrystalline silicon cells. They are more expensive than polycrystalline cells, but also offer better efficiency. So, the maximum efficiency is 25%. This is comparatively high and even among the top portable solar panels.
In other words, the higher the efficiency of the cells, the more compact and lighter the solar module. Beneath the cells lies a robust, solid plate. If we lift the SolarSaga by one edge, the solar cells barely bend. That’s good – we don’t have to worry about a cell breaking.
Perfect for Off-Grid Camping and Emergency Use
The charging cable is 3 meters long. This is long enough for most applications, but in some cases (such as when the power station is in a motorhome) it might be a bit longer.The 18-volt output voltage generated by the solar panel is sufficient to charge even large power stations.
The Jackery SolarSaga 100W is compatible with Jackery Explorer 240 v2/500/1000 v2/2000 v2/1000 Plus/2000 Plus power stations. So, it is ideal for off-grid camping and unexpected power outages. On the other hand, this panel features 1* USB-C(5V,3A) output port and 1* USB-A(5V, 2.4A) output port to charge 2 small devices directly.
Durable EFTE Coating
The solar cells are not coated with glass, but with a protective layer of EFTE polymer. This plastic is as hard as steel, yet flexible and lightweight. The solar module is well protected against impacts during everyday camping use.
The honeycomb structure of the surface reduces reflections and glare, which we like. At the same time, it improves the panel’s efficiency in the morning and evening hours. Like tiny light collectors, the honeycombs capture obliquely incident light. However, cleaning takes a little longer than with a smooth glass solar panel. So, drying off liquids requires a few extra sweeps with the cleaning cloth.
On the other hand, we believe the edge seams could be a bit better. We didn’t really focus on them, but the slightly soft edge suggests that this is probably the first area the panel will wear out after months of use.
Integrated Cable Pocket with Zipper
The cable pocket on the back of the SolarSaga opens with a zipper and protects the cable and USB ports already attached. This is how we prevent damaging impacts, scratches, and weather-related damage to the SolarSaga 100. Also, the cleverly placed pocket prevents cable clutter – we can roll up the solar charging cable compactly and store it neatly.
Ultra-Lightweight Design
The Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar bag weighs just 3.6 kilograms – that’s a very good value. Compared to cheaper solar panels, which often have glass-coated solar cells in an aluminium frame, the SolarSaga is a much lighter product. When unfolded, Jackery’s Solar Saga 100W measures 122 x 55.2 x 2 cm. This allows us to use the solar system on virtually any camper roof.
The SolarSaga folds in half in seconds, making it easy to transport. When folded, the solar bag is a real space-saver, measuring just 61 x 55.2 x 3.5 cm, making it comparable to a large doormat. Anyone who owns a smaller compact camper will appreciate the SolarSaga’s compact dimensions.
Foldable Kickstands with Velcro for Easy Setup
The magnetic closures incorporated into the edge area are ideal for protecting the solar bag from damaging influences when folded. The solar module did not open on its own – this is exactly what the magnetic closures effectively prevent. The hinged brackets on the back can be easily detached from the back panel using Velcro and serve as a stand for the solar panel.
These foldable stands are especially important if you want to position the solar panel at a sharper angle to the sun’s rays to improve charging performance. Although the kickstands are practical, they do feel rather unstable. While this flexibility can be beneficial on uneven terrain, it can become a con on flat or smooth surfaces, where the panel is more likely to slip or topple over. Of course, you can also lay the solar panel flat on the ground when the sun reaches its peak at midday.
Comfortable Carrying Handle for Easy Transport
The carrying handle on the Jackery SolarSaga 100W makes a good tactile impression. It appears to be well-made. We didn’t find any sharp edges or other injury hazards in our test. When folded, the solar bag can be easily transported over long distances using the carrying handle. You should protect the solar panel from tipping over in strong winds. This is especially important on hard surfaces. We want to avoid damage from scratches on the surface at all costs.
The metal eyelets at each of the solar module’s four corners are particularly suitable for this purpose. For example, we can thread a piece of flexible paracord through each eyelet and attach it to the motorhome or a tree. You can also use the metal eyelets of the Jackery Solar Saga for hanging or for fixing it to the roof of your RV. Because there is an eyelet in each corner, we can hang the Jackery solar bag either lengthwise or crosswise.
Easy Impressive Performance in Both Sunlight and Clody Conditions
The Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panel delivers outstanding performance, whether you’re under clear skies or typical British cloud cover. While no solar panel can defy the laws of physics—don’t expect miracles in dull weather—the SolarSaga performs as efficiently as current technology allows, even on overcast days.
In real-world use, it has proven to be an ideal companion for charging portable devices. One user noted that on a sunny day, it charged their iPads and multiple power banks with ease, providing so much power that it barely limited their screen time at all.
What truly sets the SolarSaga apart is its performance relative to other panels. In the often cloudy conditions of Scotland, users reported generating between 45 to over 60 watts on hazy or slightly dappled days. In direct sunshine, the panel can exceed expectations, frequently producing close to or above 100 watts. One user was surprised to see the SolarSaga delivering up to 113W, outperforming a neighbouring 120W panel that could only produce around 90W.
In short, the Jackery SolarSaga 100W panel consistently impresses, offering reliable, high-efficiency power generation, whether the skies are blue or grey.
Tips for Getting the Most from Your Jackery SolarSaga 100W
Which accessories are useful?
- Jackery Explorer 240: The compact power station performed very well.
- Jackery Explorer 1000: If you need more power, you can connect two SolarSaga 100W units to the Jackery Explorer 1000 to charge the powerhouse within 8 hours.
How do I clean the SolarSaga 100W?
First, you should remove any loose dirt and dust from the surface with a soft brush. You can use a damp cloth to wipe away any remaining dirt and dust particles from the surface of the solar module. Also, you should remove bird droppings and other sticky substances immediately to avoid risking a reduction in the solar panel’s performance.
What safety tips should you observe for the SolarSaga 100W solar module?
- Before use, check the connection status: cables, ports and connectors.
- Be careful when placing the Jackery solar bag on damp grass. Do not allow the connectors to get wet.
- Make sure that no corrosive substances can come into contact with the surface of the solar panel.
- Never immerse the solar panel in water.
- Do not bend the SolarSaga 100W solar panel excessively
- Do not place the solar panel in the immediate vicinity of very hot sources (campfire, barbecue, heater).
- Be careful not to accidentally step on the solar panel.
- Do not drop any objects onto the surface.
- Do not pierce the surface (for example, with a nail).
Advantages and disadvantages of the Jackery SolarSaga 100W
What we like
What we don’t like
Conclusion
We usually always have something to complain about in a product test. But here, we have to look for the drawbacks with a microscope. Perhaps what we liked least about this product is that the kickstands can be a bit flimsy. But let’s take a look at what the manufacturer is doing right. The Jackery SolarSaga 100 is a sturdy, easily transportable, quick-to-set-up, well-protected against environmental influences, versatile, and also attractive solar panel with conveniently integrated stands. And, oh yes, the performance is also impressive; in some cases, it even exceeds 100 watts.
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