PortablePowerLife.com, the hip and happening blog for all things portable power and green living. We’re pumped to dive into the deets on the Goal Zero Nomad 7 – a teeny tiny but mighty solar panel charger that wants to power up your gadgets on the go.
This lil’ 7-watt sun-powered dynamo claims it can keep your phones, cameras, GPS and other small devices juiced up with its foldable, portable design. But is this solar sidekick really as reliable, robust, and versatile as it promises? Let’s find out!
The Goal Zero Nomad 7 is a good portable alternative for small devices that require low power, such as phones, cameras, or GPS. It has a 7-watt panel, multiple charging options, and a durable design. However, it is not very efficient, fast, or powerful compared to other solar panels on the market.
Features and Specifications
The Goal Zero Nomad 7 has the following features and specifications:
- A 7-watt monocrystalline solar panel that can produce up to 1.4 amps of power under optimal conditions.
- A foldable and lightweight design that measures 9 x 1.5 x 17 inches when unfolded and weighs only 16.2 ounces.
- A built-in junction box with a smart charging chip that can optimize the output for different devices.
- Multiple charging options, including a USB port, a 12V port, and an 8mm port that can connect to other Goal Zero products.
- A weather-resistant and rugged fabric casing that protects the panel from dust, water, and impact.
- A detachable kickstand that allows you to adjust the angle and position of the panel for maximum sun exposure.
Pros and Cons
The Goal Zero Nomad 7 has some advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before buying it. Here are some of them:
Pros
- It is portable and easy to use. You can fold it and carry it in your backpack or attach it to your bike or tent with the built-in loops. You can also plug in your devices directly to the panel without needing any extra cables or adapters.
- It is compatible with a wide range of devices that require low power, such as phones, cameras, GPS, headlamps, lanterns, speakers, or e-readers. You can also pair it with a compatible power bank, such as the Goal Zero Flip 10 or Venture 30, to store the energy for later use.
- It is durable and reliable. It can withstand harsh weather conditions and rough handling. It also has a smart charging chip that can prevent overcharging or undercharging your devices.
Cons
- It is not very efficient or fast. The efficiency of the panel is around 17%, which means that only 17% of the sunlight hitting the panel is converted into electricity. The charging speed also depends on many factors, such as the weather, the angle of the panel, the type of device, and the battery level. According to some user reviews, it can take several hours to fully charge a phone or a power bank.
- It is not very powerful or versatile. The panel can only produce up to 7 watts of power, which is not enough for devices that require high power, such as laptops, tablets, or drones. It also has limited charging options compared to other solar panels on the market that have more ports or wireless charging capabilities.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Goal Zero Nomad 7:
Q: How do I use the Goal Zero Nomad 7?
A: To use the Goal Zero Nomad 7, you need to unfold it and place it in a sunny spot with the solar cells facing up. Then you need to plug in your device to one of the ports on the junction box. You can use the kickstand to adjust the angle of the panel for optimal sun exposure. You can also connect the panel to a compatible power bank to store the energy for later use.
Q: How long does it take to charge a device with the Goal Zero Nomad 7?
A: The charging time depends on many factors, such as the weather, the angle of the panel, the type of device, and the battery level. According to Goal Zero’s website, it can take about 4 hours to charge a smartphone or a Flip 10 power bank, about 8 hours to charge a Venture 30 power bank or a tablet, and about 16 hours to charge a laptop.
Q: How do I maintain and care for the Goal Zero Nomad 7?
A: To maintain and care for the Goal Zero Nomad 7, you need to keep it clean and dry. You can use a damp cloth to wipe off any dust or dirt from the panel. You should also avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, humidity, or moisture. You should store it in a cool and dry place when not in use.
Conclusion
The Goal Zero Nomad 7 is a good portable alternative for small devices that require low power, such as phones, cameras, or GPS. It has a 7-watt panel, multiple charging options, and a durable design. However, it is not very efficient, fast, or powerful compared to other solar panels on the market. If you are looking for a more powerful or versatile solar panel charger, you might want to consider other options.
