Introduction and Unboxing Experience
BLUETTI graciously provided me with their latest compact yet powerful mid-size power station, the EB70. While I appreciate the opportunity to test this model, I found it lacking in several key areas when compared to its competitors. Upon unboxing, I observed several notable features and design choices that merit discussion.
Key Features and Highlights
- Fast Charging Capabilities: Supports up to 190W input via AC charging, enabling rapid replenishment of the battery.
- Wireless Phone Charging: Equipped with a 15W Qi wireless charger conveniently placed on top of the unit for easy device top-up.
- Battery Capacity and Price: Offers a commendable capacity relative to its cost, making it attractive for budget-conscious users.
- Dual USB-C Power Delivery Ports: Provides two 100W USB-C PD ports for versatile device charging.
Initial Impressions & Unboxing
For a closer look, check out my unboxing video: BLUETTI EB70 Unboxing and First Impressions. One immediate concern was the default setting of the ECO mode. By default, ECO mode is turned off, which means the unit continues to consume power even when idle. This can be problematic since the LED indicators are small and not very bright, and the display screen turns off after a few seconds, making it easy to forget that the device remains active. I inadvertently drained the battery three times over several weeks due to this oversight, which was quite frustrating until I discovered how to activate ECO mode.
How to Enable ECO Mode on the BLUETTI EB70
According to a representative from BLUETTI, enabling ECO mode significantly reduces no-load power loss. Here’s a step-by-step guide to activate ECO mode on the EB70, which I believe will also apply to similar models like the AC200P, EB240, EB150, and AC50S:
Steps to Turn on ECO Mode:
- Power on the device and navigate to the main menu.
- Select the settings option.
- Locate the ECO mode toggle and enable it.
- Once activated, the EB70 will automatically shut off if no power consumption exceeds 50W for a specified period.
Advantages of the EB70
The two standout benefits of this power station are its attractive pricing and the built-in wireless charging pad on the top surface. These features make it a convenient choice for users seeking basic portable power solutions without breaking the bank. Beyond these, however, the device’s overall performance and design are fairly standard and lack innovation.
Drawbacks and Limitations
The EB70 presents several shortcomings that are hard to overlook. Its bulky and somewhat unattractive design makes it less portable and less appealing visually. Unlike some competitors like the EcoFlow River or Delta, which support high-speed charging, the EB70’s charging rate is limited to approximately 190W, whereas rivals can handle over 250W. Additionally, the AC adapter supplied with the EB70 is notably large, noisy, and poorly designed. It even activates its internal fans when not connected to the device, leading to unnecessary noise and power consumption. This design flaw prevents leaving the charger plugged in continuously without concern for constant operation or excess noise.
Performance Testing with Electric Heaters
The EB70 demonstrates impressive sustained output capabilities, sustaining around 700W continuously with short surges up to 1400W. During testing with a 500W electric heater, the device performed well without issues. However, when attempting to operate a higher setting on a larger heater, the EB70 automatically shut down to protect itself. For detailed insights, see this video: BLUETTI EB70 Wattage and Heater Compatibility Test.
Final Verdict: Would I Recommend the EB70?
Based on my thorough testing and experience, I find it difficult to recommend the EB70 unless your budget is strictly around $500 and you need a straightforward, high-capacity power solution. For similar or even lower prices, alternatives like the EcoFlow River 600 or Jackery 300 offer better performance, faster charging speeds, and more refined designs. In summary, while the EB70 has its merits, such as affordability and wireless charging, its shortcomings in design, noise levels, and overall performance make it less appealing for most users seeking a reliable portable power station.