Can the Jackery Explorer 500 Run a Microwave?
Updated 2026-10-17 · No
No. A microwave draws about 1200W, more than the Jackery Explorer 500’s 500W continuous AC output. The inverter will overload and shut off as soon as it switches on.
The numbers
| Battery capacity | 518Wh (NMC) |
|---|---|
| Usable energy | 440Wh (85% via AC outlets) |
| Continuous AC output | 500W |
| Surge rating | 1000W |
| Microwave running watts | 1200W |
| Startup watts | 1500W |
| Average draw | 1200W |
| Estimated runtime | Won’t run |
| Energy per day of typical use | 300Wh |
Station specs: source, checked 2026-10-17. See how we calculate runtime.
Adjust the numbers
Check the label on your microwave and enter its real wattage.
Recharging with solar
The Jackery Explorer 500 accepts up to 100W of solar input. In real conditions that harvests about 375Wh on a sunny day (5 peak-sun hours).
Tips
- A microwave rated at 1,000W of cooking power pulls around 1,200–1,500W from the outlet. Check the label on the back, not the cooking power.
- The Jackery Explorer 500 uses NMC cells, which are lighter but rated for fewer cycles (typically 500–800) than newer LFP models.
Other power stations running a microwave
| Power station | Capacity | Output | Runtime | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jackery Explorer 300 Plus | 288Wh | 300W | Won’t run | No |
| Goal Zero Yeti 500X | 505Wh | 300W | Won’t run | No |
| EcoFlow River 2 Max | 512Wh | 500W | Won’t run | No |
| Anker 535 PowerHouse | 512Wh | 500W | Won’t run | No |
| DJI Power 500 | 512Wh | 1000W | Won’t run | No |
| EcoFlow River 2 Pro | 768Wh | 800W | Won’t run | No |
| Anker SOLIX C800 Plus | 768Wh | 1200W | 33 minutes | Yes |
| Bluetti AC70 | 768Wh | 1000W | Won’t run | No |
FAQ
How long does the Jackery Explorer 500 take to recharge with solar?
With its maximum 100W of solar input it refills in about 6.9 hours of strong sun. A single 200W panel is enough to max out its solar input.
Which power station can run a microwave?
The Anker SOLIX C800 Plus (768Wh, 1200W output) can, for about 33 minutes. See the comparison table below for more options.