BRIDNA PPS1200-3 1200W Power Station Review – Portable, Powerful, and Practical

If you are getting ready for the upcoming storms, the BRIDNA PPS1200-3 1200W Portable Power Station could be a vital device for a range of scenarios, from regular power outages to emergencies or natural disasters. Having a reliable power source for essential appliances in such situations is extremely important because power outages could last for days or weeks after a storm.

I have explored some big power stations with solar panels. However, I lacked a portable solution that could power essential appliances in an emergency. The BRIDNA PPS1200-3 fills this gap as an ideal entry-level option. This power station is not just for emergency preparedness; it’s also perfect for outdoor activities like camping, RV travels, and outdoor gatherings. With its 1,008Wh LiFePO4 battery, the BRIDNA PPS1200-3 offers enough energy to power devices like electric grills, TVs, water boiler, laptops, phones, or coffee makers.

Who Would Benefit from the BRIDNA PPS1200-3?

• RV Owners: The portability and quiet operation of the BRIDNA PPS1200-3 make it a great companion for RV travels, providing easy access to electricity.
• Campers: Its compact size and reliability offer campers a comfortable experience by allowing them to bring some home comforts to the outdoors.
• Vacationers: For long road trips or vacations, the BRIDNA PPS1200-3 ensures a steady power supply for various devices and appliances.
• Off-Grid Living: People living off-grid or in tiny homes find these power stations essential for their sustainable lifestyle. They also serve as reliable backup power sources.
• Out Buildings: The BRIDNA PPS1200-3 can power remote cabins, workshops, and other outbuildings that lack grid access.

Specifications

• Capacity: 1,008Wh (45Ah/22.4V)
• Battery Type: LiFePo4
• Life Cycles: 2,500+ Cycles to 70% Original Capacity
• Management System: MPPT Controller, BMS, UPS, etc.
• AC Output: 4 × 110V, 60Hz, 1,200W
• Inverter Type: Pure sine wave
• Surge Power: 2,400W
• USB-C Port(×2): 2 × PD60W Max (5V/3A & 9V/3A & 12V/3A & 15V/3A & 20V/3A PD3.0)
• USB-A Port: 2 × QC18W Max (5V/3A & 9V/2A & 12V/21.5A QC3.0), 2 × 5V/2.4A Auto (5V/3A & 9V/2A & 12V/2A QC3.0)
• DC Output: 2 × 13.8V/10A Rated Output (DC5521), 1 × Cigarette Lighter
• AC Adapter Input: 700W
• Solar Input: 400W
• Pass-Through Charging: Yes
• Weight: 26.5lbs / 12 kg
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 14.9 x 8.6 x 10.2 inches / 38 x 22 x 26cm
• Operating Temperature: 14-104℉ / -10-40℃
• Storage Temperature: -4-104℉ / -20-40℃

Design & Output Options

The power station’s design is both practical and user-friendly. It weighs 26.5lbs, has dimensions of 14.9 x 8.6 x 10.2 inches, and comes equipped with built-in handles on 2 sides, making it relatively portable. It also includes an LED light with three levels of brightness and an SOS mode, which can be useful in emergency situations or during outdoor activities.

The BRIDNA comes with 4 AC output ports, 4 USB-A ports, 2 TYPE-C ports, 2 DC5521 ports, and 1 DC output port. This range of ports makes it capable of powering everything from mobile phones and laptops to CPAP machines and home appliances. This allows multiple devices to be connected simultaneously, as long as the total power usage remains under 1,200 watts.

The design of the BRIDNA PPS1200-3 is both practical and durable, suitable for various environments and uses. While it has a fan for cooling, the noise level is relatively low and should not be intrusive. However, it makes some clicking noise when I use the AC ports; This is not audible when I use the power station outdoors but when I use it to power my workstation in a silent room, it is quite distracting.

Charging Options

The BRIDNA PPS1200-3 can be charged using an AC adaptor, a car charging cable, or solar panels. It also supports Pass-Through Charging, allowing you to charge other devices while the power station itself is being recharged.

Specifically, it offers 700W AC charging, 400W solar charging, and 24V car charging. The inclusion of an MPPT controller enhances its solar charging efficiency, making it a good choice for prolonged outdoor use. If you want to use the power station during travels, you probably should invest in the bundle including this BRIDNA and the SP200 200W portable solar panel. The solar panel features a portable design with built-in kickstands and handle so that you can set up and carry around easily. It also has 3 types of connectors which are XT60, M20, and Anderson. I tested the solar panel during the winter and couldn’t get enough sunlight to recharge the power station.

Notice that the power station can be charged only via the M20 connector. The M20 port is not so common in the US and you might find it difficult to find an adapter for this port. Fortunately, they include an adapter in the box, so you can use any solar panel to recharge the BRIDNA.

Battery and Inverter

The 1,008Wh LiFePO4 battery and 1200W pure sine wave inverter are significant features of the BRIDNA PPS1200-3. The LiFePO4 battery is safer and longer-lasting than standard lithium-ion batteries. LiFePO4 batteries are known for their longer lifespans, typically providing more charge cycles. This makes them more cost-effective in the long run. They also boast improved safety, with a lower risk of overheating and combustion, thanks to their more stable chemistry. Additionally, LiFePO4 batteries are more environmentally friendly, as they do not contain cobalt, a toxic heavy metal often used in lithium-ion batteries. Their stable nature also allows them to operate more efficiently in a wider range of temperatures, making them suitable for a variety of applications. Lastly, they tend to maintain a consistent voltage level for most of the discharge cycle, ensuring more reliable performance across a range of devices.

The combination of a top-tier BMS and a pure sine wave inverter ensures that sensitive electronics and a range of appliances can be powered safely. This system provides protection against short circuits, voltage fluctuations, and extreme temperatures. Besides, the power station has built-in fans for cooling, contributing to its secure usage.

Efficiency and Runtime

We used a smart plug on the AC outlet to measure capacity of the BRIDNA station. The battery efficiency of the BRIDNA PPS1200-3 is about 80%, typical for portable power stations. This means that its actual usable energy is slightly lower than its rated capacity (810Wh vs 1,008Wh); This is actually a common trait among power stations on the market.

During my testing, the BRIDNA PPS1200-3 demonstrated reliability and efficiency. With 1,200W max power, it efficiently powered a variety of appliances, such as a large TV, my work setup including a laptop and a monitor, a water boiler, or a small space heater. The unit’s safety sensor tripped when overloaded, but this was easily reset, showcasing its built-in safety features. The power station is good enough for essential devices and you shouldn’t expect to use it with your power tools or other demanding appliances.

Conclusion

Overall, the BRIDNA PPS1200-3 1200W Portable Power Station is a versatile and reliable choice for those needing portable power. Its combination of safety features, varied output options, and robust build quality make it suitable for a wide range of users, from those needing emergency power to outdoor enthusiasts. You can purchase it on the official website for over $600.