It’s hard to exist today without a lot of electronic gear — from the keyboards we use to work at our computers to the sound systems that keep our parties rocking. And no matter how well-intentioned we are with keeping power cords organized, we all have that unruly mess of tangled cords around some of our power outlets. We might not even remember what some of the cords plugged into it are for. But you can avoid the electronic cord overload with solar-powered gear.
With a growing selection of solar-powered options available for everyday electronics, we can eliminate some of the cord chaos while reaping other benefits of solar technology. Using solar-powered gear helps us save money on utility bills and/or batteries, decreases phantom or vampire energy wasted by electronics plugged in while not in use, and gives us options to contribute to a clean energy future. While there are many solar-powered products out there, here are a few that stand out as new and unique solar gear must-haves.
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Headphones and Earbuds
These first-of-their-kind self-charging solar headphones from Sweden-based audio electronics company Urbanista are powered by indoor and outdoor light. Also available on Amazon, the Phoenix earbuds and Los Angeles over-ear headphones provide endless playtime with access to light. If you are using them in the dark for long hours, the earbuds offer 24 hours of playtime, and the over-ear headphones offer 80 hours of playtime from a full charge. Both have great sound quality and noise-canceling technology and are fashionable with a sleek and modern look.
Keyboards
A comfortable and reliable keyboard is a work-from-home staple in the era of remote work. The Logitech wireless solar keyboard, also available on Amazon, will last for 3 months on a full charge. It charges from solar light and indoor lights in your home or office, so you don’t need direct sunlight to power this device. Non-solar wireless keyboards have long been the standard for a tidy workspace, but they require a battery to power them. This thin and lightweight solar keyboard is the next step in keyboard evolution, connecting to your computer via USB and requiring no cords and no batteries. How much easier can it get?
Speakers
Whether you are in need of a portable speaker for a summer camping trip, to use at the pool or beach, or just around your house, this solar-charged speaker by Goal Zero is the perfect addition to your audio tech needs. Available on Amazon, this portable speaker provides mobility and freedom from electrical cords and outlets. It plays for 10 hours on a full charge and comes with a USB cable option as well if you run out of sunlight. With Bluetooth connection and a weatherproof exterior, this solar speaker is ready to go with you wherever you go both indoors and outdoors.
There are also other options on Amazon for solar-powered speakers with different features, such as the multi-functional ABFOCE Solar Bluetooth Speaker that’s waterproof and has a built-in light and charging station. Once you start shopping around, you may find there are more options for solar-powered speakers than you originally thought.
Outdoor String Lights
A cozy and welcoming addition to any outdoor patio or deck ambiance is a set of outdoor string lights. With so many solar-powered string light options to choose from, it can be hard to pick the right one for you. The Solar-Powered Edison Bulb String Light, available at Home Depot, is a classic style that gives off a soft warm light on a 48-foot strand.
If you are looking for different styles and options, refer to this Buyers Guide for multiple style, color, and brightness options. Be sure to check if the lights are weatherproof and safe for outdoor use if that is where you intend to use them. Some options come with bulb replacements, which can be useful when some inevitably break or burn out. Review the pros and cons for each product, and make sure to measure the length to ensure the coverage you need.
Solar-Powered Gear: Just the Beginning
This is only a brief roundup of some unique and useful solar products that are available now. By switching to solar-powered products, you can immediately start doing your part in championing clean energy, while saving money on batteries and utility bills and cleaning up some of that power cord clutter in the process.
If you are not in the market for new devices, consider portable solar energy systems to power any of your electronics. There are so many solar technology advancements and options on the market, and we are excited to see future developments for solar electronics.