Below, we compare the Renogy Lycan to the Renogy Phoenix at the top of this guide.
We also separately compare the Renogy Firefly to the Renogy Phoenix lower in this guide.
Reviews of these solar generators are included throughout the guide.
Let’s take a look!
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Renogy Lycan vs Phoenix: TLDR
The Renogy Lycan has newer technology, increased output/performance and is a newer model solar generator than the Phoenix:
- You can pre order the Lycan for now on the Renogy site.
The Renogy Phoenix is an older model solar generator than the Lycan, with slightly lesser output, but you may find it more affordable from a price perspective:
Renogy Lycan vs Phoenix: Review
Renogy Lycan Review (Solar Generator)
The Renogy Lycan Powerbox is set to be released later this year in 2017.
This is a next generation type solar generator, which is an upgrade over the existing Renogy Firefly and Phoenix all-in-one generators.
This is a preview …
What We Know About The Lycan Powerbox So Far …
It’s a solar electric generator
Unlike the Renogy Phoenix – the Lycan is a power box that does not have in-built panels – so, it must be charged externally
It’s a clean and sustainable alternative to a gas generator
It’s designed for everyday charging of AC and DC devices around the house or in off-grid/remote locations, as well as power outages and emergencies
Examples of devices it can charge are TVs, smartphones, laptops, microwaves, radios, cameras, cell phones, and more
Can handle some notoriously energy hungry appliances like fridges and microwaves
As an estimate – you can get 120 charges into a standard USB smartphone, or 5 charges into a standard laptop
It provides up to 900 watt hours of power
It can power any AC or USB device up to 1200W with a 1200W Pure Sine Wave Inverter
It can be charged in 3 ways – Solar Power, Car Power (12 volt car charging socket), AC Power
It has a lithium ion phosphate battery with a battery voltage of 48 volts and capacity of 21Ah
You can have a n interchangeable battery for backup power
It caries 2000 Charge Cycles or more
It is not waterproof, but the casing is water resistant
Has a Maximum Power Point Tracking Charge Controller
It is compatible with all Renogy solar panels – if you want to use them externally to charge the Lycan faster
It can connect with up to 100 Watt panels, and 300 Watts in total i.e. 3 x 100 Watt external Renogy panels for faster charging of the Lycan
It is estimated you can FULLY charge the Lycan with 3 x 100 Watt Renogy external solar panels in 3 hours
You can use the Lycan to charge your devices while it is charging itself
The standard package comes with the Lycan Powerbox, an AC adapter, and a MC4 to DC connector
Has a LCD display which shows information on battery capacity, errors, and DC/AC load on/off
Can switch between AC and DC output with the push of a button
Has an LED worklight
Very portable – comes with wheels and a carry handle
Weighs less than alot of solar generators at 60 lbs
Plug in outputs include 2 x 12 volt DC outputs, 3 x 110v AC outputs, 3 x 2.4A USB Port outputs, 1 x 1A USB Output
The Lycan backing process was carried out on Indiegogo.com
Renogy are currently offering (as of May 2017) three pre order bundles, and a separate extra interchangeable battery option – you can check them out on their site at https://www.renogy.com/products/the-element-series/the-lycan-powerbox/
Renogy also released a video on their Youtube channel if you want to check it out.
Lycan Resources
1. https://www.renogy.com
2. https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-lycan-powerbox-ready-when-you-aren-t-power-battery#/
Renogy Phoenix Review
The Renogy Phoenix is the updated and better model of the previous Renogy Firefly.
It is an all-in-one solar generator, so it comes with almost everything you need to start charging AC and DC devices while only really needing to plug your device into the generator with the cables/connectors provided.
It is great for charging appliances while travelling, or while you’re in a remote location off-grid, and also makes a great back up power source.
The Phoenix has newer technology, slightly better input/out, can accept a wider range of external panels, and charge faster than the Firefly.
If you’d like to read a review specifically on the Phoenix, you can read on below.
What’s Good About It, and What Are The Features?
Designed to power several on-the-go appliances for mobile and off-grid applications, OR to be a back up system emergencies
Consists of two 10W Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Has capacity to expand up to 120 watts with additional PVs (so, you could at max add another 100 watt panel to charge this generator with the 2 x 10 Watt panels on the generator already, for a total of 120 watts)
Provides up to 210Wh of energy
Can be charged by solar, AC power, or 12v DC car power
Comes with AC Charge Cord MC4 to 4.5mm DC IN Cord CIG to 4.5mm DC IN Cord 5.5mm DC to 4.5mm DC IN Cord 5.5mm DC to Light Bulb Socket
It has 4 USB ports, 1 AC port, 2 DC ports and 1 CIG/12V Car port
Renogy provide all the necessary cables for the above outlets/inlets
Includes a replaceable 16Ah Li-ion(NMC) battery
The case feels super well built, and solid – which points to it being very durable
Comes with some great built in features like Multi-mode 3 watt LED Light, MPPT Charging Technology (look at PWM solar charging compared to MPPT), 150 watt built-in Pure Sine Wave Inverter (an inverter is for AC power)
MPPT (maximum power point tracking method) technology finds the maximum operating point for your panels, and is up to 99% efficient
LED light can be set to full, dimmed, or flashing mode
Examples of AC appliances you might charge with this generator are electric lamps, coffee makers, and heaters.
Examples of DC appliances using batteries, such as flashlights and battery power sources
To give you an idea of what the Phoenix is capable of on full charge- you can get around 32 charges into a standard smartphone, with each charge taking about 2 hours
As a very rough estimate, in direct sunlight, you might take 1-2 days to charge fully. If you add one 100 watt solar panel to help charge, you will likely be able to fully charge the generator in less than half a day.
Case feels solid and is water resistant
Dimensions are 16.24 x 11.95 x 3.94 inches
Weighs only 12.8 pounds
Power output has a 25 year warranty, and the materials and worksmanship has a 5 year warranty. There is a 1 year warranty on the accessories – always check conditions of warranty through third party sellers
Fan cools the generator when it heats up
If you over or under load the generator with voltage, or the BMS stops discharging, you get a specific error code which you can call tech support about
What Could Be Improved?
Make sure you check the limits on input and output charging to make sure it’s suitable for your devices
Sometimes can have issues with overheating if you leave it in the sun too long – but, not common or a major concern.
Won’t run super heavy energy appliances like large fridges
It’s not a cheap generator – but, considering the performance and technology, the price is justified for those who need it
What Else Might You Need?
No extras really needed – maybe a device specific cable, but most cables and connections are provided
Where To Check Out
View the Renogy Phoenix on Amazon
What Is The Renogy Phoenix Solar Generator?
It is an all-in-one solar generator which uses solar, AC and DC power, to charge DC and AC devices up to a certain limit.
It supersedes the Renogy Firefly.
What Is The Renogy Phoenix Used For?
It has two primary purposes:
To charge AC and DC devices (check limits of devices that it can charge) on the go, or off grid in remote locations away from mains power
To act as a backup power source in the event of emergency
Who Is The Phoenix Good For?
People who want a better performing version of the Firefly, with newer technology.
People who travel, go camping, have a remote cabin or holiday house, are away from house AC power, are out of a boat, or need a backup power source would benefit greatly from it.
It is an all in one generator, so, you can basically begin charging devices simply by plugging them in.
Renogy Phoenix – Accessories & Extras
The great thing about an all-in-one generator is that they come with basically most things you need to use them.
You may need connection or cable specific to a particular device you are using – but it comes with most connectors and cables you need.
You may also choose to get extra solar panels externally for charging the Phoenix faster.
You might like to read a review/guide of the Renogy 100 Watt panel here.
It is estimated with the 100 watt panel, you can charge the Phoenix in around 2.5 hours, compared to 1-2 days with the 2 x 10 Watt built in panels that come with the device.
Phoenix Resources
1. https://www.renogy.com/
Renogy Lycan vs Phoenix: Comparison
The Renogy Lycan Powerbox is set to be released later in 2017, and it boasts massive performance capabilities.
The earlier model is the Phoenix
With this is mind, below is a Renogy Lycan vs Phoenix comparison to see what advances have been made.
It’s worth noting that as solar generators, these power sources can replace a gas generator in some instances.
A big benefit is that you have clean and sustainable energy to use on a daily basis, or in an emergency or natural disaster.
A comparison of these models is …
Renogy Lycan vs Renogy Phoenix – Main Differences
The Lycan is a newer release than the Phoenix with newer technology
The Lycan is a Powerbox, not an all-in-one generator. What this means is that it doesn’t have the two 10 Watt in-built solar panels like the Phoenix – it must be charged externally via connected solar panels, AC power or a DC plug in from your car for example
The Lycan is a box with a long handle and wheels, whereas the Phoenix is more of carry case that folds open and close – so you transport them differently
The Lycan provides up to 900 Watt hours, whereas the Phoenix is only up to 210 Watt hours
The Lycan has a 1200w Sine Wave AC inverter – for AC or USB devices up to 1200 Watts. The Phoenix only has a 150 Sine Wave converter
The Lycan is compatible with ALL renogy solar panels and can connect up to 300 Watts of external solar panel to it to charge it. The Phoenix is compatible with most Renogy panels, and can only add an additional 100 Watts of external solar panels to charge
The Lycan weighs 60 lbs, whereas the Phoenix weighs only 12.8 lbs – quite a difference
Outputs are slightly different – the Lycan has 2 x 12 volt DC outputs, 3 x 110v AC outputs, 3 x 2.4A USB Port outputs, 1 x 1A USB Output, while the Phoenix has 4 USB ports, 1 AC port, 2 DC ports and 1 CIG/12V Car port
The Lycan has a 2000 Cycle battery life, whereas the Phoenix is 1500
The Lycan has aLithium Iron Phosphate Battery with a battery capacity of 21Ah, whereas the Phoenix has a Li-ion Battery Pack with a battery capacity of 16Ah
For a standard smartphone – its estimated the Lycan will give you 120 charges, whereas the Phoenix will give you 32
The Lycan can handle some notoriously energy hungry appliances like fridges and microwaves, whereas the Phoenix is for smaller devices only like laptops and phones
Lastly, obviously there is a big difference in price
Renogy Lycan vs Renogy Phoenix – Main Similarities
Designed for the same main purposes – to charge AC, DC and USB devices on the go, and to be a backup power source in the event of an emergency or disaster
Both have MPPT charge controller technology
Similar max charging times with external solar – with the Lycan being around 3 hours with 3 x 100 Watt panels, and the Phoenix being 2.5 with a 100 Watt panel
Both have the ability to have interchangeable backup batteries
Both have water resistant cases
Both have LCD displays that show similar monitoring information for the units themselves
Renogy Lycan vs Phoenix: Which Is Better For You?
You’d consider getting a Renogy Lycan if…
You want a powerbox that requires external solar, DC or AC charging
You are willing to pay more for newer technology, greater capacity and increased performance
You want a portable generator capable of charging some of the appliances that use more energy like microwaves and fridges
You want a true high capacity powerbox suitable for heavy use – and those who want maximum portable energy at their disposable
You want a powerbox that has estimated capacity for 120 charges of a USB smartphone
You can pre order the Lycan for now – visit the Renogy site.
You’d consider getting a Renogy Phoenix if…
You want an all-in-one generator with included solar panels
You want a more affordable solar generator than the Lycan
You want a portable sustainable generator for the average person – for light-medium use, and fine for one or several trips away
You want a solar generator with capacity for an estimated 32 charges of a USB smartphone
View the Renogy Phoenix on Amazon
Renogy Lycan vs Phoenix: Resources
1. https://www.renogy.com
2. https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-lycan-powerbox-ready-when-you-aren-t-power-battery#/
Renogy Firefly vs Phoenix Solar Generators: Comparison & Reviews
All-in-one solar generators are extremely convenient when compared to a traditional solar setup.
With a traditional solar panel – you need the panel, connectors and cables, a solar controller and of course the battery/batteries.
An all in one solar generator is essentially all those items in the one unit – you even get most of the cables and connectors you need to plug into the generator so you don’t have to buy them extra.
If you have been looking into these generators, you’ll want to look at a comparison of the Renogy Firefly vs Phoenix models.
Both are higher quality generators that are popular among solar users.
The following guide has a summary/review and comparison of each model, along with a final word on which might be better for your needs.
Renogy Firefly vs Phoenix Solar Generators: TLDR
The Phoenix is a newer model all-in-one solar generator, with newer technology, has increased power output & input, and can charge faster – when compared to the Firefly:
Renogy Firefly vs Phoenix Solar Generators: Reviews
Renogy Firefly Review
All-in-one generators are great value for money for some people.
As their name suggests – they have most components you need to charge your appliances and devices in the one piece – you just charge your generator up and hook up the device you want charged.
They are portable, can be carried around, and can be used for charging AC and DC appliances on the go, as well as a backup power source for emergencies.
We would note that the Renogy Firefly has been superseded in 2017 by the Renogy Phoenix, which you can read a review about elsewhere in this guide.
If you’d still like to know about the Firefly, you can read on below.
What’s Good About It, and What Are The Features?
Designed for mobile charging off grid, or emergency usage for a backup power source
Can charge DC devices, and any USB or AC appliance under 150W
Has a switch that allows you to switch between the AC and DC charging
Has an LCD display that has information on battery capacity, errors, and DC/AC load on/off
Provides up to 175Wh of energy
2 x 10 watt monocrystalline panel built in
Has a convenient and comfortable carry handle
Has a built-in 10A charge controller
Comes with a 5.5mm adaptor cable with DC to MC4 connectors to connect up additional input power
Includes an LED flashlight on the side with two modes, lighting and SOS
Includes one 16Ah lithium polymer battery
Case feels solid and is water resistant
Weighs only 12 lbs
Dimensions are 15.20 x 11.81 x 3.84 inches
Power output has a 25 year warranty, and the materials and worksmanship has a 5 year warranty. There is a 1 year warranty on the accessories – always check conditions of warranty through third party sellers
What Could Be Improved, Or Should Be Noted?
Make sure you check the limits on input and output charging
Sometimes can have issues with overheating if placed in the sun for too long – but, not common or a major concern
Won’t run super heavy energy appliances like large fridges
Compatible only with extra Renogy panels up to 50 Watts for Monocrystalline, and only the Poly 50 Watt panel > for quicker charging than the 2 x 10 watt panels provided
Not listed on the Renogy site anymore as of May 2017 – has been superceded by the Phoenix and soon the Lycan
What Extras Might You Need?
No extras really needed
Where To Check It Out?
View the Renogy Firefly on Amazon
What Is The Renogy Firefly Solar Generator?
It is an all-in-one solar generator which uses solar, AC and DC power, to charge DC and AC devices up to a certain limit.
What Is The Renogy Firefly Used For?
It has two primary purposes:
To charge AC and DC devices (check limits of devices that it can charge) on the go, or off grid in remote locations away from mains power
To act as a backup power source in the event of emergency
Who Is The Renogy Firefly Good For?
People who want a cheaper version and older version of the Renogy Phoenix all-in-one solar generator.
The Firefly has older technology, and decreased performance compared to the Phoenix.
If you travel, go camping, have a remote cabin, go boating – or do basically anything which requires you to be away from your home for longer periods of time – it will suit you.
Renogy Firefly – Accessories & Extras
The great thing about an all-in-one generator is that they come with basically most things you need to use them.
You may need connection or cable specific to a particular device you are using – but it comes with most connectors and cables you need.
Firefly Resources
1. https://www.renogy.com/
Renogy Phoenix Review
Refer above in this guide
Renogy Firefly vs Phoenix Solar Generators: Comparison
Renogy Firefly vs Phoenix – Main Differences
The Phoenix is a more recent release (2017) than the Firefly (2015)
The Firefly can only accept additional solar panels up to 50 Watts and mainly just poly and mono panels. The Phoenix can accept a wider range of solar panels (like the Renogy solar suitcases and Eclipse), and up to 100 Watt panels.
The Phoenix has slightly higher max AC and DC outputs
The maximum amount of external solar power you can connect to the Firefly is 70 Watts, whereas the Phoenix is 100 Watts
The quickest charge time the Phoenix can have is 2.5 hours, whereas the Firefly is 3 hours
The Firefly has a Lithium-Polymer battery, whereas the Phoenix has a Li-ion battery
The Phoenix LED light has more settings
The technology on the Phoenix charge controller is updated
The Phoenix is priced higher than the Firefly
Renogy Firefly vs Phoenix – Main Similarities
Similar weight
Similar dimensions
Have the same overall designed use – to charge DC and AC appliances on the go, and to be a back up power source for emergencies
Renogy Firefly vs Phoenix Solar Generators: Which Is Better For You?
You’d consider getting the Renogy Firefly if…
You want a cheaper, older version (older technology, and released to market longer ago) of the Phoenix
You are OK with the decreased output, input and slower charging times – and overall older technology of the Firefly
You want a solar generator that will charge AC and DC appliances on the go, and can be a backup power source
You want a solar generator that can be charged by external solar, external DC power like a car charger, and AC power
View the Renogy Firefly on Amazon
You’d consider getting the Renogy Phoenix if…
You want a more expensive, newer version of the Firefly
You want newer technology than the Firefly – with increased input, output and quicker charging times
You want a solar generator that will charge AC and DC appliances on the go, and can be a backup power source
You want a solar generator that can be charged by external solar, external DC power like a car charger, and AC power
View the Renogy Phoenix on Amazon
Renogy Firefly vs Phoenix Solar Generators: Resources
1. https://www.renogy.com/
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