Ugreen’s PowerRoam 1200 Is Ideal for AC Power backup for home and away

Although the PowerRoam 1200 and 600 are designed for camping and outdoor use, they're also ideal for ... [+] standby use during power outages.

There was a time when power packs of rechargeable batteries were heavy and expensive equipment designed for well-heeled campers who needed power in the middle of nowhere. However, times have changed. In this time of net zero and surging energy prices, there is a need for backup power for those of us who don’t have solar panels to get us out of trouble.

The Ugreen PowerRoam 600 and 1200, have been developed with leading electric vehicle manufacturer BYD to provide off-grid power options for a range of uses. At its heart, the PowerRoam units have an EV-rated lithium-ion phosphate battery. Coupled with a sophisticated battery management system like the technology used in electric vehicles. The units even can be connected to solar panels to provide 24/7 power that Ugreen claims is clean, safe and green.

The PowerRoam 1200 is Ugreen’s top-of-the-range power station and was designed to provide a useful amount of power for outdoor and leisure use. The PowerRoam 1200 us equipped with U-Turbo Technology and has 6 AC outlets that can supply up to 1,200 watts of power, enough to charge multiple charging devices and appliances.

The US version on the PowerRoam 1200 has six 110V AC outlets, while the UK version has two 230V ... [+] outlets.

Built-in power distribution and consumption algorithms can lower voltages, enabling heavier-duty electronic use up to 2,500W. For outdoor power needs, electrical charge is supplied and maintained because of the internal LiFePO4 batteries regulated by Ugreen’s own Battery Management System (BMS). The BMS protects the batteries from over-current, over-voltage and overheating, guaranteeing safe power for connected devices.

Ugreen claims that by working with BYD, the PowerRoam units can supply sustainable output for more than 3,000 charging cycles, translating into a potential lifespan of 10 years. The PowerRaom has a robust polycarbonate ABS shell that should withstand the rigors of outdoor life over many years.

The PowerZip feature with all PowerRoam units enables users to have electricity during a power outage. PowerZip Technology delivers a fast charge when connected to an AC outlet, allowing the PowerRoam batteries to get from 0 to 80% in less than an hour and fully charging in just 1.5 hours. If there is a power outage, the PowerRoam can kick in within 20ms, ensuring an uninterrupted power supply during a power outage.

As well as supplying AC power, the Ugreen PowerRoam 1200 is ideal for recharging smartphones, ... [+] tablets, cameras batteries and laptops.

Although the PowerRoam units are great to use as a UPS or an auxiliary power source during an outage, the unit can be connected to a couple of 200W solar panels that will potentially charge the unit in around four hours. Users can also charge a PowerRoam unit from a vehicle in about six hours, ensuring the user has power for the evening by the time they arrive at a campsite following six hours of driving.

Managing the PowerRoam is aided by using the Ugreen PowerRoam app. Pressing the IoT button on the PowerRoam starts the pairing process using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The PowerRoam units can be monitored remotely with the app and receive over-the-air firmware updates. The app provides access to power settings, diagnostic checks and battery charge monitoring. Everything can be controlled and customized from a smartphone.

The unit feels heavy at 12kg, but the integrated handle makes it less demanding to carry. That said, you need some muscle to carry the PowerRoam any distance. The handle could probably use a little rubber padding on its underside or, failing that, some anchor points for a shoulder strap.

As well as for outdoor use, the PowerRoam 1200 makes an ideal backup device with its UPS PowerZip ... [+] function for power outages.

I tested the UK version of the PowerRoam 1200, which offers two UK sockets with 230V output. There is also a cigarette lighter socket for charging items that work with a car’s power outlet. Alongside the two AC power sockets, there are also two USB-C ports that output up to 100W of power, enough juice for a top-of-the-range MacBook Pro. Additionally, two USB-A ports output 23.5W of power, plenty enough for smartphones and tablets. Finally, there are two 12V 10A DC outputs.

In terms of inputs, for obvious reasons, this UK unit was limited to an input voltage of 200 – 240V at 10A max. Next to the mains input, which uses a standard kettle lead, is an input for connecting a couple of solar panels to charge the unit. A built-in fan keeps everything cool while charging to ensure the unit doesn’t overheat.

Verdict: I’ve tried out the PowerRoam 1200 to see how usable and easy it is to recharge. The color LCD on the unit is superb and immediately offers all the necessary stats. The quality of the construction is excellent and feels safe. That’s important with such a high-powered piece of equipment. The PowerRoam charges very quickly, and the LCD screen or app keeps you updated on progress. The PowerRoam comes with a selection of cables and a handy bag to keep them in. As a backup power unit for camping or power outages, the Ugreen PowerRoam is hard to beat. It’s undoubtedly a great UPS for most uses except for very sensitive equipment that can’t cope with the 20ms interruption of the power supply. It’s certainly ideal for use with a fridge or an internet router. And if you find the PowerRoam a little big and heavy, there’s even a robust optional carry bag available. Recommended.

Price & Availability The Ugreen PowerRoam 1200 is available on Amazon.com and at Ugreen.com from $999 / £1,199.99 although $200 discount coupons are available from the Ugreen website.

More info: Ugreen.com

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