BLUETTI EB3A vs EcoFlow River 2: Which is the Best Choice for You?
If you are looking for a portable power solution that is lightweight, compact and without costing an arm and a leg, the Bluetti EB3A and EcoFlow River 2 are definitely two solid option to consider. In this comparison guide we will compare these two models one-on-one.
Read our other Portable Power Station Reviews or learn what the TOP performers are for different occasions: TOP 10 BEST Portable Power Stations, BEST Portable Power Stations for Camping, BEST Portable Power Stations for Power Outage, BEST Portable Power Station under $200, BEST Portable Power Station for Refrigerator.
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Comparison Table: Bluetti EB3A vs. EcoFlow River 2
| Feature | EcoFlow River 2 | Bluetti EB3A |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 256Wh | 268.8Wh |
| Battery Type | LiFePO₄ (Lithium Iron Phosphate) | LiFePO₄ (Lithium Iron Phosphate) |
| Life Cycles | 3000 cycles to 80% Original Capacity | 2500+ Cycles to 80% Original Capacity |
| AC Output | 120V 50Hz/60Hz, 300W | 2 x 120V/5A Outlets 600W In Total |
| Inverter Type | Pure Sine Wave | Pure Sine Wave |
| Surge Power | 600W | 1200W |
| USB-C Output | 1 x 60W Max | 1 x 100W Max. |
| USB-A Output | 2 x 5V/2.4A 12W | 2 x 5V/3A 15W |
| Wireless Charging Pad | N/A | 1 x 15W Max. |
| Car Power Output | 12.6V 8A, 100W Max | 1 x 12V/10A 120W Regulated. |
| DC5521 Output | N/A | 2 x 12V/10A DC 5521 (5.5mm Outlets) Regulated. |
| AC Input | 100-120V 50Hz/60Hz, 360W Max | 350W Max. |
| Solar Input | 110W Max, 8A, 11-30V | 200W Max, 8.5A, 12-28V |
| Car Charger Input | 12V/24V, 8A, 100W Max | 12/24V from Cigarette Lighter Port |
| Charging Time | 1 hour AC | 1.3-1.8 Hours AC, 1.8-2.0 Hours Solar (With prime sunshine, ideal orientation and low temperature) 430W, with AC and Solar Input Simultaneously |
| Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
| Pass-through Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 7.7lbs | 10.14lbs (4.6kg) |
| Dimensions | 9.6 x 8.5 x 5.7in | 10.04 x 7.09 x 7.20in / 255 x 180 x 183mm |
| Operating Temp | 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C) | -4-104℉ (-20-40℃) |
| Storage Temp | 14°F to 113°F (68°F to 86°F is best) / -10°C to 45°C (20°C to 30°C is best) | 32-104°F (0-40°C) |
| Warranty | 5 Years | 24 Months |
| Normal Retail Price | ~$239 | ~$299 |
| Get Best Deal | Get Best Deal |
Key Features Comparison: Bluetti EB3A vs. EcoFlow River 2
Power/Performance – winner: Bluetti EB3A
Our experts tested both solar generators and both are quite similar in terms of battery capacity. This means that you will be able to power the same device equally long. However, the Bluetti EB3A can power devices that are twice as powerful, up to 600W max, whereas the River 2 can power appliances up to 300W in total. The EB3A can also handle twice as much surge power (1200W) compared to the EcoFlow. In addition, other outlets such as the USB ports have a higher Wattage which will charge your electronics such as laptops or smartphones faster. A nice bonus on the EB3A is the wireless charging pad at the top of the power station. Although both portable power solutions have the same battery capacity, the EB3A is twice as powerful.
Portability & Design – winner: Bluetti EB3A
Solar generators in this price segment are often small and compact, which makes them very portable and useful for small camping trips by car for instance. Both of these portable power stations are no different. The size and weight are very similar. However, the Bluetti is slightly heavier and a bit larger. The design of the EB3A is better in our opinion. It has a clean rectangle shape which makes it easier to stack. The River 2 has a fixed handle that protrudes slightly towards the back, making it less stackable. What we also liked is that the Bluetti has two full-fledged AC outputs, whereas the EcoFlow has one large and one smaller AC output.
Battery Life and Expandability – winner: EcoFlow River 2
Both budget-friendly portable power solutions are equipped with a LFP battery. However, there is a notable difference in battery life cycle between the two. The River 2 will last longer with 3000 cycles until dropping to 80% of its maximum capacity. The EB3A has a lower life cycle with 2500 cycles. Both will serve you well for years, but the River 2 takes the win here.
Charging Time and Solar Compatibility – winner: EcoFlow River 2
Another aspect where the River 2 comes out on top is the charging time. EcoFlow is known for its fast charging times and that is no different for the River 2. It will fully charge through AC in just an hour. The EB3A will need approximately 1.5 hours for instance. Although the AC charging time is considerably faster on the River 2, the opposite counts when you want to charge your solar generator via solar panels. That is because the EB3A has a higher max solar input. So, depending on your preferred charging method, one may be a better choice for you. However, since AC charging is probably the most often used way to charge a power station, this one goes to the River 2.
Price and Value for Money
The original retail price of the Bluetti EB3A is a bit higher compared to the River 2 but they often run good deals for this model. This makes both models nearly identical in price. Hence, considering what model will offer you the best value for money totally depends on what you value. As described above one model has better performance and design where the other is better in terms of longevity and charging speed.
Pros and Cons of the Bluetti EB3A
Pros of the EB3A
- ✔️ Superior power output: Handles up to 600W continuous power and 1200W surge, making it twice as powerful as the River 2.
- ✔️ Faster USB charging: Higher wattage on USB ports means quicker charging for smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
- ✔️ Wireless charging pad: Conveniently charge your devices wirelessly on top of the power station.
- ✔️ Better AC output configuration: Features two full-fledged AC outputs compared to River 2’s one large and one smaller outlet.
- ✔️ Higher solar input: Charges faster via solar compared to the EcoFlow.
- ✔️ Stackable design: The rectangular shape makes it easier to store compared to the River 2’s protruding handle.
Cons of the EB3A
- ❌ Shorter battery lifespan: 2500 cycles vs. River 2’s 3000 cycles before dropping to 80% capacity.
- ❌ Heavier and slightly bulkier: Not a huge difference, but it’s a bit less compact.
- ❌ Slower AC charging: Takes 1.5 hours vs. 1 hour for River 2 when plugged into the wall.
- ❌ Slightly higher price (before discounts): Often retails at a higher price than River 2 unless discounted.
Pros and Cons of the EcoFlow River 2
Pros of the EcoFlow River 2
✔️ Longer battery lifespan: Up to 3000 cycles before dropping to 80% capacity, meaning it will last longer than the EB3A.
✔️ Faster AC charging: Fully charges in just 1 hour via wall outlet, making it one of the fastest-charging models in this range.
✔️ More compact and lightweight: Slightly smaller and lighter than the Bluetti, making it easier to carry around.
✔️ More efficient power management: Optimized energy usage for longer-lasting performance.
Cons of the EcoFlow River 2
❌ Lower power output: Max 300W continuous and 600W surge, making it half as powerful as the EB3A.
❌ Slower solar charging: Lower maximum solar input compared to the Bluetti, which limits solar recharging speed.
❌ Less versatile AC output: One large and one smaller AC outlet instead of two full-sized ones.
❌ Less flexible design: The fixed handle protrudes, making it harder to stack or store.
Real-Life Use Cases
When to Choose Bluetti EB3A
If you are looking for a highly budget-friendly portable power solution for car camping trips or short outages, the EB3A is a great choice. You can power “heavier” appliances compared to the River 2 which is a huge plus. If the 500 less cycles don’t bother you and you don’t mind waiting half an hour longer for it to fully charge, then this model is your best option.
Bluetti EB3A Review score: 3.9/5 stars
Our experts choose the EB3A over the River 2 because it is twice as powerful for the same price.
Best Deal Available on AmazonWhen to Choose EcoFlow River 2
If you want maximum longevity and lightning fast charging speed via AC, then the River 2 is your go to. It’s perfect for camping trips during weekends to charge your small electronics and some lights on the campsite for instance.
EcoFlow River 2 Review Score: 3.7/5 Stars
The River 2 offers the most longevity and lightning fast charging speeds. Perfect on camping trips to quickly charge it back to 100%.
Best PriceFAQs
Which is best, EcoFlow or Bluetti?
It depends on your needs: Bluetti offers higher power output and better AC ports, while EcoFlow has faster AC charging and longer battery life.
How long does Bluetti EB3A last?
The battery lasts for 2500 cycles before dropping to 80% capacity, meaning several years of use. If you want to know how long the EB3A lasts with 1 fully charged battery it depends on what appliances you want to power. Use our battery calculator to get an estimation.
Is EcoFlow a Chinese brand?
Yes, EcoFlow is a Chinese company based in Shenzhen.
How long does EcoFlow River 2 battery last?
It lasts for 3000 cycles before dropping to 80% capacity, offering excellent longevity. If you want to know how long the River 2 lasts with 1 fully charged battery it depends on what appliances you want to power. Use our battery calculator to get an estimation.
Will a Bluetti EB3A run a fridge?
Yes, the Bluetti EB3A can run a small fridge, provided its power consumption is under 600W continuous.
Is Bluetti a Chinese brand?
Yes, Bluetti is also a Chinese company, headquartered in Shenzhen.
How long will EcoFlow River 2 run on TV?
The runtime depends on the TV’s power consumption. For a 50W TV, the River 2 can run for about 4.5–5 hours.
How many times can EcoFlow River 2 charge a laptop?
It can charge a 50Wh laptop approximately 7–8 times on a full charge.
How long can EcoFlow River 2 run a fan?
For a 40W fan, the EcoFlow River 2 can power it for around 5–6 hours.
Conclusion
Both the River 2 and EB3A are great budget-friendly portable power stations for small car camping trips. However, since the EB3A has better power performance we would recommend going for the Bluetti EB3A.
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