Solar Panels Compatible With the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Power Station: Expert Guide
When paired with the right solar panels, the EcoFlow RIVER 3 can provide a fully off-grid power source for your small devices and appliances. And while they can be a good choice, you do not have to use solar panels from EcoFlow.
In this guide, we’ll identify what makes solar panels compatible with the EcoFlow RIVER 3, including the specs you need to look for and how you can connect the panels to the power station. After that, we’ll wrap up with a curated list of the best solar panels for the RIVER 3 power station.
Disclaimer: This article is independently written and is not affiliated with or endorsed by EcoFlow. It is intended for informational purposes only to help customers understand which third-party products may be compatible with certain power stations.
Specs and Solar Panel Compatibility
Before you connect any solar panel to your portable power station, verify the solar panel specs are suitable. The solar input on your power station has limits to what it can handle safely, including a voltage range, a maximum current (amps), and wattage (a combination of voltage and current).
The voltage range is the most important one – never exceed the maximum voltage your power station can handle.
The other consideration to finding compatible solar panels is the connection type. MC4 connectors are the most common for solar panels, but many small power stations use other connection types (XT60 / XT60i).
Here are the specs and information you need to know about the RIVER 3:
| Power Station | RIVER 3 |
| Solar Input Watts Max | 110W |
| Solar Input Volts Min | 11V |
| Solar Input Volts Max | 30V |
| Solar Input Amps | 8A |
| Solar Input Connector | XT60 / XT60i |
Note: Always double-check your power station specs before using a solar panel to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. The specifications listed here are based on publicly available information from the EcoFlow Support center but it is subject to change.
XT60 vs. XT60i
One common question we get is about the difference between XT60 and XT60i cables. The quick answer is that for solar panels, you should be able to use either one without a problem for the RIVER 3.
You can use solar panels that have an XT60 connector already attached or you can use solar panels with another connector and get an adapter (e.g., MC4 to XT60 adapter cable).
The difference is that XT60i has a third pin that is especially useful for using other DC charging sources.
For solar panels, however, that extra pin isn’t necessary. The power station should always use the full amount of power available from solar panels (up to the power station’s solar input maximums). Testing from many sources has confirmed that using an XT60 (without the extra pin) is perfectly suitable.
Connecting More Than One Panel: Series vs. Parallel
The RIVER 3 is a small power station with a solar input that matches. With a maximum power input of just 110W for solar panels, it’s unlikely that you’ll want to use more than one panel with the RIVER 3.
If you find that you need more than one panel, then you need to understand how to connect solar panels together:
- Series connections: Solar panels are in a chain. The positive lead from one panel attaches to the negative lead of another panel. This causes the voltage to increase but keeps current equal to one panel’s output.
- Parallel connections: Use specialized Y branch connectors (2-to1, 3-to-1, etc.) to combine all positive leads in one spot and all negative leads in another. These cause the voltage to remain equal to one panel’s output but causes the current (amps) to increase.
Solar Panel Considerations
Now that you know what the specs and connection type are, it’s time to look at the other side of the equation.
Ideally, one panel that maximizes the charging speeds is ideal. So you want to get as close as possible to 30V and 8A as you can. However, you must leave extra room for voltage spikes in cooler temperatures. We recommend leaving about 10% for most people (if you’re in freezing temps, 20% might be better).
When shopping for solar panels compatible with the EcoFlow RIVER 3, an ideal solar panel has ~27V or less (Open Circuit Voltage, Voc) and no more than 8A output.
It would also be nice if it already has an XT60 or XT60i connector. Or you can get a solar panel with MC4 connectors and use the MC4 to XT60 adapter cable.
Compatible Solar Panels for RIVER 3 Power Station
Here we have a short list of our favorite solar panels compatible with the RIVER 3. These panels are from well-known brands, made with high-quality components, and will perform extremely well.
1. DOKIO 100W Foldable Solar Panel
Our top choice is this unique solar panel from DOKIO. It features a rigid panel that’s typically seen on roof installations. The reason we like this is because it is built to last much longer than typical portable solar panels that use flexible thin panels. And it includes the XT60 connector. This one panel will be your power station’s companion for many years to come, likely outlasting the power station itself.
- Why It’s Great: More durable and longer-lasting foldable solar panel that uses rigid panels. Includes XT60 connection you need. Slightly thicker and heavier, but will last years longer than typical portable panels with thin solar panels.
- Perfect For: Capable of generating ~400Wh in a day of direct sunlight. That's almost enough to fully charge the 245Wh twice. Voltage is well within the power station limits (Voc = 21.6V).
- Add-Ons: None needed. Includes XT60 output directly from panels. Also includes a charge controller, but you do NOT want to use that with any power station. Use the XT60 from the panel directly.
2. ALLPOWERS 100W Portable Solar Panel
Our other choice for the best solar panel compatible with the RIVER 3 is the 100W portable solar panel from ALLPOWERS. It is an unbeatable price yet it is still made with high-quality parts and has countless positive reviews and customer experiences.
The only downside is that you need to get an MC4 to XT60 adapter cable, but even after including that in the purchase price, you’re still getting one of the best solar panel deals on the market.
Plus, you get a simple charge controller that you can use for charging other devices directly from the solar panel. You don’t use the charge controller with a power station, but you can use it to charge phones or other batteries.
- Why It’s Great: This is an ultra-portable folding solar panel with highly efficient (22%) solar cells. It’s priced much lower than other solar panels but still offers great performance and high-quality construction.
- Perfect For: Capable of generating ~400Wh in a day of direct sunlight, enough to charge the RIVER 3’s battery easily within one day and still have plenty of power to charge devices while charging the power station. Voltage is well within the power station limits (Voc = 22.4V).
- Add-Ons: This comes with some adapters, but it does not include the XT60 or XT60i. You’ll need to get the MC4 to XT60 adapter cable.
Recommended Solar Accessories
You might need something else to make your solar setup work perfectly. Here are some accessories that pair well with your power station and solar panels:
MC4 to XT60 Adapter Cable
The RIVER 3 power station uses XT60 or XT60i connections. If you choose to buy a panel that does NOT have this connection, you’ll need an adapter cable. Both of these are high-quality options we’ve carefully vetted and sourced from our providers.
Solar Extension Cables
Ideally, you want your solar panels in full direct sunlight and your power station in a protected, shaded location that’s convenient for charging your devices. These solar extension cables let you have the best of both worlds.
If your panels have an XT60 connector (like the DOKIO 100W), you can use the XT60 extension cable. If your panel has an MC4 connector (like the 100W ALLPOWERS), you can use MC4 extension cable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What solar panels are compatible with my power station?
As long as you stay within the solar input limits, you can use almost any solar panel with any power station. Never exceed the voltage limit and make sure to leave ~10% for voltage spikes in cooler weather. You’ll need to attach the panels to the with the right connector (XT60 or XT60i). If your solar panel doesn’t have that, you can use an MC4 to XT60 adapter.
Can I use more panels than the specs allow for?
Exceeding the solar input limits can damage your power station. We recommend always staying within the 30V and 8A limits. This is more than enough to charge the power station fully within about 3 hours of direct sunlight from one 100W panel. You should NEVER exceed the input’s maximum voltage.
How do I get solar panels with an XT60 connector?
You can shop for solar panels that include an XT60 connector or adapter. Or you can buy any solar panel with another type of connector and get an adapter. Most solar panels use MC4 connections. A simple and affordable MC4 to XT60 (or XT60i) adapter cable will allow you to use any solar panel with a power station that uses the XT60 orXT60i input.
Can I use a solar extension cable to put my power station in the shade while solar panels are in the sun?
Absolutely. We highly recommend using an extension cable to get max sunlight on your panels while keeping the power station in a convenient (and shaded) location. You can use XT60 extension cables or MC4 extension cables, depending on the connections of your solar panel.
Final Thoughts
It’s never been easier or more affordable to get the right solar panel that's compatible with your RIVER 3 power station. As long as you keep the voltage under 30V and the current at 8A or less, you can use almost any solar panel. You’ll need to ensure it has an XT60 or XT60i connector as well (or get an MC4 to XT60 adapter).