TechRadar Verdict
The Jackery Explorer 240D is designed to be powered on the go, anywhere. It has a decent capacity, the essential ports for a power supply of this size, and a built-in cable to make it even easier to use. It is, however, a USB port only, with no jack for larger devices.
Benefits
- +
Integrated braided cable doubles as a carrying handle
- +
Very portable size
- +
Essential Fast Ports
Disadvantages
- –
Not the greatest capacity
- –
No catch
- –
Limited availability outside of the United States currently
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I feel like there are more power plants than ever these days. Currently I’m very interested in some of the smaller formats and what they can offer. Although I’m still trying to understand the technical differences between a power bank and a powerhouse when they get to this size, I know that the Jackery 240D has really impressed me with its capabilities and how easily it fits into my workflow, even if it’s not perfect.
In short, it’s a small-capacity portable power station with simple, useful ports, no AC outlet, a tiny screen, and a built-in cable/handle hybrid, which makes it more useful. Jackery has rightly promoted this cable as the flagship feature of this powerhouse, and they are right to do so.
Jackery Explorer 240D: Price and availability
The Jackery Explorer 240D is available from Jackery in the US for $209 – as a standalone unit or as part of a bundle with other accessories.
It’s also available at Walmart for $150 at the time of review.
Unfortunately, I’m currently having trouble finding it outside of the US.
Jackery Explorer 240D: unboxing and first impressions
Unboxing the Jackery Explorer 240D is a fairly simple process. Inside the box is just the power station itself, the braided cable/handle, and some documentation.
The cable and handle are approximately 1m/3ft and connect via locking connectors on either side of the power station.
The port offer is ideal for a small unit like this; however, I would note pretty quickly that there was no AC port. Some units in this size category have an AC port, but only one, which gives them an advantage in certain scenarios.
I’m guessing that most people who need a power station of this size don’t necessarily need an AC port, as USB-C is growing in popularity and availability.
The cable/handle is surprisingly good. Looks like a quality braided cable. The ports connect well to any of my devices and the attachment mechanism is sturdy enough that I don’t worry about it when carrying the power station via the hybrid cable handle.
Finally, although a shoulder strap is available, I would probably still throw it in a backpack if I’m carrying it with me somewhere due to its smaller size.
Jackery Explorer 240D: quality design and construction
The Jackery Explorer 240D is compact and easy to transport thanks to the integrated handle or with a shoulder strap. It’s also incredibly easy to be able to throw it in a backpack or the back of a vehicle, if you want. I even put it on the side saddle of my Lectric XPedition 2.0 a few times to get a little power on my long bike rides, just in case.
The screen adds a simple display to help you with basic information about battery capacity and runtime.
As most compact power stations of this size do, all the ports are on the front of the device, meaning it’s very easy to access if you’re placing it somewhere or tucking it into the side of a bag.
What’s super cool about this type of power station is that because it’s so easy to transport while still having enough capacity and power, it might be the only device you take with you if all you need to power it is a tablet, phone, computer or something like that and nothing bigger.
For example, if I went camping quickly. Chances are this will be the only powerhouse I’ll need to bring. That’s just enough power to charge my phone several times in an emergency. Pair it with a simple portable solar panel (like the one I have that has a simple USB-C output) and you have unlimited power for the essentials.
I’ve been using this powerhouse around the house for a few months for various things. I also used it during a few power outages we had during storm season in the Midwest.
Meanwhile, the only things I’ve needed to use a different power station for are scenarios where I need to power a larger device or when I need to power those weird devices that still only require an AC outlet.
For example, when I was inflating an air mattress that had a built-in pump that required an AC outlet, I couldn’t use this Jackery Explorer 240D power station and had to look for something else. Outside of those scenarios, though, this is a phenomenal device. Especially since I don’t have to keep track of cables as well, which seems so small on paper but actually makes a huge difference in daily use.
It’s the kind of powerhouse that makes me truly grateful that almost all of my devices have now moved to USB-C. Thanks to this universal cable standard, the use of cable rollers is no longer necessary.
Jackery Explorer 240D: Final Verdict
I won’t lie to you: the Jackery Explorer 240D is not a perfect powerhouse; However, it is quite fantastic for those who only need a small battery bank, slightly larger than standard, but smaller than the average power station.
For those who need something between a simple power bank and a full-sized portable power station, the Jackery Explorer 240D has proven to be a pretty phenomenal middle ground.
If you’re looking to add just a little power for peace of mind while camping, or want to have something in the back of your car in case of an emergency, especially perhaps during the winter months or long trips, then the Jackery 240D is a great option.
A former TechRadar Pro B2B material editor, Collin has worked in journalism for years, with experience in markets large and small, including Gearadical, DailyBeast, FutureNet, and more.