Delta Pro Ultra and Apollo 5K Kits: PoweredPortableSolar.com/Shop/ The EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra and the Hysolis Apollo 5K are the top two units on the market right now. Which one is the absolute best one for a long term power outage?
Hi my name is Robert wooten an my family lost our house do to a fire an we lost everything an now we have to leave we're we are staying an I need help getting power off grid to a 35 foot camper on a property my dad left us but don't have a lot of money could really use your help please
Was a OUPES Mega 3 Home Backup & Portable Power Station | 3600W 3072Wh one of the solar generators you tested? I know you did a lot of work, but this generator seems to be a power horse. Just wondered how it compares to these two systems
If you can't afford something like this Even having a solar panel and battery, will make a world of a difference than not having anything when electricity is out.great video
I'm old school and like my systems just to be on all the time with no software or wifi needed. Large low frequency inverters. Charging happens with a contactor. When batteries are full the panels turn off. Simple robust components. Is been running that system almost eight years. Zero downtime.
I second this request! My greatest concern is what good does it do to have all this stuff if the EMP or CME wipes it all out. Only way I know for sure is to faraday cage it all, but then it’s sitting there doing nothing. I want to know how to fully protect the systems and utilize them at the same time so they can help pay for themselves.
I wholeheartedly third this request. This had been my biggest concern as well. If there is a way to harden these for EMP, I would love to know! Looking forward to that video!
Over the years I have purchased multiple EcoFlow products knowing that if there are issues that their customer service really sucks. I like their products and eventually EcoFlow does make things right. However, based on their customer service history, I would never consider purchasing another Ecoflow product, so my vote goes to the Apollo.
Actually I have to disagree I have had 2 units fail not my delta pros just a river 2 mini and delta mini which they both replaced for better refurbished units. One the screen failed on the river mini and the solar plug failed on the delta mini not huge issues but still needed to be replaced
@@CityPrepping I've watched your solar generator videos multiple times over the past year and would love if you added your thoughts on the Apollo system.
I went with EcoFlow due to the good service this past year. I am impressed with the attention to detail and quality of workmanship. Their forward thinking of creating other categories such as their Wave, Blade, etc assure me of strong viability of the company future.
Excellent overview, but a slight flaw in terminology. Standard 240 Volt service is single phase. This contrasts with the three phase power required by many types of industrial equipment. Two phase power is obsolete and used almost nowhere today. When the single phase 240 volt power is split by taking either side directly to ground you get split phase. A standard home service panel does not have two different phases, but two different sides of a single phase.
Absolutely an outstanding comparison video, thank you! Options are great. My personal need for one of these would be to provide up to 15 kw of battery, allow for a minimum of 4,000 watts of PV input (preferably combined low and high voltage), 240 split phase to run well pump and portable enough to move as needed. Both of these, as you pointed out, can do many of my wants. My decision, as close as it is, would be the EcoFlow. Currently I have to use multiple solar generators to accomplish the above and they take up a lot of space but I don't have close to the money either of these would cost me so until I can consolidate all I can do is watch videos like yours and keep dreaming.
Excellent video. It would be great if you could do a video about ground-neutral bonds. This comes up often in the Facebook groups where people make mistakes and create hazardous conditions.
From the first time and the beginning of the Apollo I’m still on board with there work. But. Thumbs up 👍 for both companies and your research on both. 😊
I just bought a Ford Lightning and it has a 7kW system that I can plug into my house and run it for days. The only problem there is I can't charge it with solar so I need another system to run off grid. If I was to get one of these I would get the Delta Pro Ultra all day long.
Really appreciate the time you put into this video. The only thing I would need 240 for is running my water well. I would choose the EcoFlow. Thanks again.
Thanks for putting this together! We have a mountain home in Colorado and I’m looking for a system to have us off grid. Just need the panels to charge the system and have the manual switch at the box. The Apollo is looking great! I have to find out what our max usage is, but we do have 240V in floor heating. The house is also all electric. So water heater and well boost pump will be a big draw possibly. No AC to worry about though!
Both very capable systems, do like the Hysolis but with pricing special $1,000 off went with the DPU, one unit with 240 volt, good solar input was only looking for critical load back up. Would not have been disappointed with Hysolis and it does have some great features.
Thanks for the comparison! I'd have to vote for the Apollo because one unit does what i want it to do now for less $ than one DP Ultra and I still have the choice of growing the system if circumstances create that need. It also seems that the DP Ultra has some early adopter issues at the moment, but then so did Apollo last year, Hysolis handled the Apollo situation very well as they loaned me one of their MPS3k units while they fixed the issues with the Apollo! Both look like great products!
Ben being offgrid the last thing I want to do is babysit my system and check to see if the solar power input has kicked on properly. I am not a big fan of having to make sure some firmware update has done its thing like it seems that you have illustrated with the DeltaPro Ultra. So in this situation my pick would be the Hysolis Apollo 5K. Thanks.
Great job on the video. I must say the footprint (compactness) of the DPU and that it’s totally portable (comes with wheels) and can be hauled to remote locations with the hand cart/dolly, was, in my opinion, totally overlooked. That is so huuuge to be able to wheel your charging station to wherever you have a need. That said, your analysis and great video quality and editing are outstanding!
Good stuff Ben! I'd totally take Apollo. Ecoflow burnt me in the past badly so screw them but even if they didn't, I live in NE so need that PV input and I just like to pull for the smaller company since it's also US based it's a no Brainer. Never regret my Growatt 3k and my Point Zero Titan purchases but yea I'd love an Apollo if I could justify the purchase😊
I feel like I can trust a smaller business much more than a larger company. Sure their resources may be less but their ethics and morals come through much more in the end and in their product&service.
Vampire current and inverter efficiency for small loads pretty much comes down to inverter size. NONE of the big inverters will do well. Not a single one of them. Smaller is better, bigger is worse. Universal axiom when efficiency and vampire current is a concern. If small-load efficiency is important you basically want an external battery bank... 24V is best for small loads, and a small inverter connected to it, somewhere in the 500W to 800W range. That will generally have a vampire load of roughly 6W and be super-efficient for small loads. And still be big enough to handle a fridge cycling (for example). Some people even use little pure-sine-wave 12V "car" inverters, at least for the 100W-300W range. Vampire draw is typically 1-2W but watt-for-watt efficiency is a bit worse for the loads. Rule of thumb for an inverter, 50% of the inverter size is near the maximum efficiency point of the inverter watt-for-watt for loads. -Matt
I really like both of these units. Thanks to this channel, I've been able to follow both of them for the last year. Thank you Ben! This video was very well done. They definitely have their pros and cons to fret over. Thank goodness that both of these units are very quiet. For me, it comes down to the initial costs. A few times, Ben mentions needing two Apollos to match the Delta Pro Ultra (to start with). If my goal is to have 12,000 watts running inverter output, 240 volt split phase, and 50 amp service, what will it cost me? In this case I need to buy two Delta Pro Ultras (non-sale price $11,600) or four Apollos (non sale price $21,980) Granted that only gives you about 12 kw of battery capacity for the DPU, versus 21.5 kw of battery capacity for the Apollo. And really, for long term power outages, battery capacity is king. But that roughly $22,000 for 50 amp service was more than I wanted to pay. $11,600 for delta pro ultras is bad enough. In addition, I couldn't afford (or have the space for) the amount of panels to recharge 21.5 kw of battery quickly. I kind of feel like its a repeat of the tortoise and the hare. The Delta Pro Ultra is the tortoise that gets an awesome head start; but in time, the Apollo (with its overall solar/battery capacity) will catch up and surpass the DPU. I'm with Ben's conclusion....for home/suburban use, the DPU is the way to go for small-medium setups. Even though I side with the DPU, I still have wandering eyes for the Apollo 😛
Great job 👍. I personally don’t want one system. I much prefer zone usage of different sizes. It gives me redundancy and allows me to continue to take advantage of prior purchases. I love the tech but I like basic systems. I’ve had my share of issues with software on two of mid-cap platforms. I’ve since purchased simpler systems. But hey, to each his/her own. If I was buying I’d buy the Apollo. I love EF but don’t trust them for long term.
I don't think either one would be a bad choice. Both are rock stars! I think your last category is the most important what fits the individual user. I really like that the delta makes that 240 so easy man that is an awesome innovation.
Thank god we have you to spend 10’s of thousands of dollars of your own money and 100’s of hours to educate us. You are the greatest person alive. Thank you for all you sacrifice in your attempt to help us little people.
The apollo is what i need. But being in Europe, has to be 240v from the get go on a single apollo unit. Yes, i would love to have 1.2 gigawats (great scott!!) of power through multiple apollos and expansion batteries, but the reality is that I can’t afford from the get go 2 apollos etc. Buying 1 apollo with 240v output and then adding expansion batteries as i go would be awesome, but unfortunately not available. 😮💨
I can only speak from my experience which has been good. When I call them I make a point to not let them know who I am or my channel so I get normal treatment. I can understand not everyone will have the same treatment but mine has been good.
Excellent presentation Ben. This gives me a lot to think about. At some point I will be running my 1200 sq ft off grid home with one of these or something similar. Thank you.
Ben I bought my first solar unit from you that was a Titan with 3 batteries. Could you update your views on it now. I only need a unit to survive on at my small cabin. Thank you for all you have done to help us understand solar 😅
The Titan is still a great unit if you only need 120v power. I ran my Titan for over 4 years non-stop and it worked great. I have since upgraded my system at my cabin only because I have added 240v items and want to run them off of battery at night.
Mannnnnn! Great video.We just started installing solar this year and getting into solar powered generators. I'm always looking for the best and most economical choices for my customers and I appreciate videos like this. I heard you briefly touch on generator integration with the Apollo but not the Ultra - or I missed it. I was all Ecoflow till this video, and still am for home standby or back up power, but a lot to think about. Thanks for sharing
Brother your video really help retired in phillipines the grid sucks thats only reason I'm even looking 329 kw a month bill roughly $60 don't laugh we don't run ac 24 / 7 but I want and need to. Delta pro is where I'm leaning towards just on shipping..Semper Fi
I like the name brand recognition of the Eco-Flow but I would probably go with the Apollo. I say this because I can break it apart for home and remote use as needed. Amazing. Finally! Thought I saw 8 expansion batteries on the Hysolis. ... Did they have but downgrade? X FACTOR CONSIDERATIONS: Some people like the 90° cables of the DPU. And if you only had the one system, you could at least take the Apollo apart and reconfigure for a home and remote location and at least have 120V.
Thank you for your extensive testing and data. However, with the years of issues I have had with EF, they could have received all the points, and I still would go with the Apollo.
I would go with the Apollo! After having my Victron system for a number of years, support is critical, and the things I’ve heard about eco-flows support worries me! Also, the expandability (PV) is huge on the Apollo and the fact that it gets twice as many cycles is also huge! And if you’re waiting for power to come into your system in the morning or if it’s cloudy, the eco-flow fails badly! I would like to know if the Apollo can charge by a gas generator while running your house? Great review! 🤙
@simon359 But it doesn't get twice as many cycles. Apollo gives cycle count to 50% of original capacity and misleads the reader. Ecoflow gives cycle count to 80% of original capacity (like it has always been with all other lithium based chemistries). They have the exact same cycle life.
EcoFlow. I've been using two Delta 2 systems with two Delta Max extra batteries for 3 months without solar swapping one out while I charge the other carrying it to my daughters house to plug in for recharge. Plan to add solar soon but it has been great to have the flexability so far. Also, love the other innovations with the Wave, Glacier and Blade. Very innovative company with a diverse assembly of additional products. A company worth watching for future technologies.
I'm a rookie when it comes to solar power so I have a question about batteries and safety with these two specific solutions. Do these units need to be installed outside in a separate structure or are they safe to be installed say in a basement next to the pain breaker panel? Any issues with the batteries off-gassing? Great video. Very informative.
Have you had a problem with delta pro ultra sold by amazon.The q/a:"Is ac pass through possible with 120v input? A: Use the c20 outlet for a bypass mode with a 120v input. There is no bypass mode for 240v input. AC output is turned off at this time"
Great video. I came to similar conclusions. The market is changing more and more. The new Anker actually might be what I get due to how portable it is in comparison plus its way cheaper. For my basic portable needs I can save 3k which allows me to upgrade elsewhere. If I wanted off grid with rare portable needs then Apollo would be the choice. I think for my off grid set up I am going with a Schneider XW Pro inverter and get the Anker to be able to wheel it around to other parts of the property. Its a shame the Apollo couldnt be more portable because I really like it's specs. Ankers PV input is its biggest limitation but to run some saws and battery charging it would be ok.
This technology & market continues to move forward. What is the best today will be surpassed tomorrow; reminds of the PC/CPU days beginning in the 90's where CPU speeds were constantly doubling every year. With that said, which of these should a person buy for the long haul... say 5-10 years of use... maybe more?
Thank you for all the research!! You mentioned EMP, wouldn’t that or a solar event fry these? How would you protect a system this large from an event like that? Too big for a typical faraday bag
@minutemanprep Solar storms won't affect these. You need long runs of conductor, which is a grid issue, and not a household issue. (If you have long runs between buildings, it MIGHT have an issue) Why? Solar storms are low flux, long time, wide area events. The magnetic flux in any small area is, well, small. But, over long runs (like telegraph lines for the Carrington event) the charge buildup can be significant. But in a small area, (like a house) the flux isn't enough to cause any issues. It may interfere with wifi (and DEFINITELY GPS) but nothing wire/conductor related. Foe the other EMP event, it's VERY high flux, over a wider area, but short duration. A Faraday cage is needed for this.
Do you feel that, at some point, if you need something that large, (basically no longer "portable") you're better off just going to a component-based system? Both of those systems are INSANELY expensive, for the capacity they bring to the table. There are any number of other solutions, which aren't "portable", but you get far more system for the money. The only use case I could see for either of these over-priced beasts would be someone who has BOTH an off-grid cabin AND a large RV that they boondock with regularly. For anyone other potential buyer of a system this big, they'd be way better off building a component-based system.
My opinion is if you need upwards of 1,500 kWh/mo it's a really good idea to look into hardwired system over a power station system. But some people want to pull the units out their boxes, attach some cables, flip their interlock switch and be off-grid. With these systems you can do that. With a hard wired system, you can't do that so easily.
If you can afford them, they're the best. Best overall size, integration, capability, software, functionality...and portability. I have delta pro's running my house and I like how I can roll each one away and throw them in a truck and take them to a cabin.
I pick the Apollos. That said, "portability" is relative. One Apollo weighs ~ 135lbs. One Apollo expansion battery weighs ~116lbs. The cart made for them rolls like glass, so that is not a problem. I don't know what DPU's weigh, but 135lbs. is not something easily picked up and moved without 2 people. The smaller Apollo footprint, the additional 3000 cycles, and ease of service with legitimate English speakers does it for me. I am "switching" from a gas backup generator to Apollos, (sort of). I have a manual switching system wired in long ago with a transfer box that I will keep for Apollos. I know how it works, plus I will keep the gas generator. I can use the gas generator to charge the Apollo system when needed, plus use the generator anytime the Apollo system might fail. You cannot charge an Apollo from your wall (electric utility) at the same time you charge it using a gas generator. You can charge with solar at the same time as either of the above. With a four Apollo system, one or two can fail and the others will get you by. With two DPUs if one fails you are down by 50% and if both fail you are down to zero. Even one Apollo is better than zero. It's a close choice, and Ben is right. What do you need, what do you want, and what do you want to pay or can afford? Neither system is cheap. I decided before I started this experiment that the idea of it paying for itself over time is a nonexistent issue for me. I want emergency power 1st, 2d, and last. Solar where I live is not the best as it is in AZ, NM, or TX. If you absolutely have to have solar pay for itself, perhaps you should forget it and stick with Edison. All of the above said, I don't see much wrong with a DPU system if that is your preference. Finally, If I want a hardwired system I would use Victron components and skip portability. I may yet do that, too, for unused space above my garage. Even so, I want a manual plug in system, not automatic switching. I know how that works and fully understand it. I can do that with any system, portable or Victron. Nothing requires you to hardwire Victron to your house. All systems have pros and cons------ your choice. Bottom line: Apollos for me. Thanks, Ben. You explained it well the same as always.
@@minutemanprep - I agree that some people think these systems are easier to hook up, and they are, but only by small degrees over the increasingly easy-to-install modular systems. The new 6000XP from EG4 (Luxpower) is dead simple, very powerful, very scalable, and really much better suited for a whole house solution than anything portable. Plus, it's quite a bit less expensive. You pay a real premium for the largest of the (marginally) portable systems.
@@MotoJB - I can see that working, in very specific situations, but it's a very expensive solution. You could almost buy two stationary systems for the same price, and never have to move anything around.
Yes, unless you have the units in a Faraday cage the electronics will be junk. The battery may still pass power on its own. I stress the word may because nobody has even tested to see if an emp will disable a lithium battery.
For me I would Take the Apollo...Just learning about this stuff.Looking to buy a off grid system...Right now I do have a back Generator.It only keeps the lights on.Where is the video on you hooking together 4 Apollo's into split phase.Please let me know where I can fine that.Thanks>:))
Be curious to compare Apollo and the EcoFlow Delta Pro 3...Have heard the 3 isn't as good as the Ultra, so mya just need to go with this great comparison, TY
the never can have solar guy here. virtually no videos for that type of of customer that i’ve seen. ben, which of these would you pick for someone that will be recharging it with a dual fuel generator, if a prolonged outage? please do a video for no solar people please. thanks!
Very interesting, the issue you mentioned at 23:45 is also with Delta Pro (the version before Ultra), so it seems like EcoFlow is struggling to fix this issue
To be fair, you were using a preproduction unit, so that means you were also using a beta version of the app, which I would make sure you're now using the official version. There is a longer cable coming out for the DPU but both are good systems and I want your DPU batteries lol
so 1 Ultra = to 2 Apollo. just looking at amount of space each setup take up is huge. 3-phase 208V is nice to have if needed with the Apollo. The Ultra dose have a longer cable that was available at lunch so I have no idea what he is talking about as that's not an option.
great video, but what i didn't hear you talk about is where can these units be placed. Do they have to be in a climate controlled area or can they be in a shed?
You mentioned that the Appolo is better in an RV because not having tomstack them, however I don't recall you mentioning how many ways the Apollo can charge. The DP ultra has can charge with solar, regular wall outlet, 240v, connected to the cars alternator as well as with additional charging with a smart plug with the adapter. Does the Apollo have the same options?
I'm not sure which to get. I know zero and need it set up by someone and basic tutoring. I think I'll get one but like portability a lot. I'm going to decide by May but sure have to find help. I can't even follow all the connector advice you give. I'm a disabled officer and have a brain injury. I don't have much in loss of thinking but my memory is pretty bad. I do want to get a system asap. Thank you for your video. I had narrowed my choice between these exact units and do have budget limits. So I'll get one unit so perhaps the Delta is best but I do worry about less charging panels with a package.
The only thing that really matters to me if they both were charged if they are all would charge with solar and solar alone. And then it doesn't matter to me. One way or another how it charges as long as it charges with solar panels. And that'll make me happy and if it's still running loads.
I think they've gotten most of them out, but it's hard to say I'm 100% comfortable. But that could be because I'm part of the beta testing and am destined to find those bugs. Overall I think the DPU is awesome.
Delta Pro Ultra and Apollo 5K Kits: PoweredPortableSolar.com/Shop/
The EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra and the Hysolis Apollo 5K are the top two units on the market right now. Which one is the absolute best one for a long term power outage?
Thank you!
Hi my name is Robert wooten an my family lost our house do to a fire an we lost everything an now we have to leave we're we are staying an I need help getting power off grid to a 35 foot camper on a property my dad left us but don't have a lot of money could really use your help please
@@robertwooten9424 I'm sorry to hear about your tragedy. Feel free to email me at info@poweredportablesolar.com
Was a OUPES Mega 3 Home Backup & Portable Power Station | 3600W 3072Wh one of the solar generators you tested? I know you did a lot of work, but this generator seems to be a power horse. Just wondered how it compares to these two systems
Can you also include the EG4 and the point zero titan 240 next time?
If you can't afford something like this Even having a solar panel and battery, will make a world of a difference than not having anything when electricity is out.great video
LoL
i have nothing.. too poor..
but i love watching these videos lol.
Delta Pro is the winner for me. Now I need to win the lottery.
You do an excellent thorough job on your videos !! You make it so easy to understand , my hats off to you sir !!! Happy father’s day to ya !!!
I'm old school and like my systems just to be on all the time with no software or wifi needed. Large low frequency inverters. Charging happens with a contactor. When batteries are full the panels turn off. Simple robust components. Is been running that system almost eight years. Zero downtime.
What brands do you recommend?
Doesn't matter any used panel is fine just not broken glass.
Thank you for putting this together! As a follow up, I would love to see how you protect these against an EMP with such large systems.
I second this request! My greatest concern is what good does it do to have all this stuff if the EMP or CME wipes it all out.
Only way I know for sure is to faraday cage it all, but then it’s sitting there doing nothing. I want to know how to fully protect the systems and utilize them at the same time so they can help pay for themselves.
Great idea. I'll write that down and get a video about it.
@@criticalhadlock886 Good to know, thanks for seconding.
@@minutemanprep@minutemanprep , Also, please include how to protect your solar panels against an EMP .
I wholeheartedly third this request. This had been my biggest concern as well. If there is a way to harden these for EMP, I would love to know! Looking forward to that video!
Over the years I have purchased multiple EcoFlow products knowing that if there are issues that their customer service really sucks. I like their products and eventually EcoFlow does make things right. However, based on their customer service history, I would never consider purchasing another Ecoflow product, so my vote goes to the Apollo.
I've been fortunate with my Ecoflow Delta pro and haven't required customer support, but I have heard they are terrible.
It's hit or miss. Had and issue with DeltaPro contacted them, communication as painful but ended up getting a new unit quickly.
Actually I have to disagree I have had 2 units fail not my delta pros just a river 2 mini and delta mini which they both replaced for better refurbished units. One the screen failed on the river mini and the solar plug failed on the delta mini not huge issues but still needed to be replaced
Oh and I got replacement units within days
Excellent video!
Thanks! I appreciate it. This one was A LOT of work haha.
@@minutemanprep I can tell. This video will do well
@@CityPrepping
I've watched your solar generator videos multiple times over the past year and would love if you added your thoughts on the Apollo system.
I went with EcoFlow due to the good service this past year. I am impressed with the attention to detail and quality of workmanship.
Their forward thinking of creating other categories such as their Wave, Blade, etc assure me of strong viability of the company future.
Excellent overview, but a slight flaw in terminology. Standard 240 Volt service is single phase. This contrasts with the three phase power required by many types of industrial equipment. Two phase power is obsolete and used almost nowhere today. When the single phase 240 volt power is split by taking either side directly to ground you get split phase. A standard home service panel does not have two different phases, but two different sides of a single phase.
Absolutely an outstanding comparison video, thank you!
Options are great. My personal need for one of these would be to provide up to 15 kw of battery, allow for a minimum of 4,000 watts of PV input (preferably combined low and high voltage), 240 split phase to run well pump and portable enough to move as needed. Both of these, as you pointed out, can do many of my wants. My decision, as close as it is, would be the EcoFlow.
Currently I have to use multiple solar generators to accomplish the above and they take up a lot of space but I don't have close to the money either of these would cost me so until I can consolidate all I can do is watch videos like yours and keep dreaming.
Excellent video. It would be great if you could do a video about ground-neutral bonds. This comes up often in the Facebook groups where people make mistakes and create hazardous conditions.
Good idea, I'll make a note of that.
Great Eco flow delta pro ultra solar system 👍😎
From the first time and the beginning of the Apollo I’m still on board with there work. But. Thumbs up 👍 for both companies and your research on both. 😊
Thanks for sharing, always good to hear from you.
I just bought a Ford Lightning and it has a 7kW system that I can plug into my house and run it for days. The only problem there is I can't charge it with solar so I need another system to run off grid.
If I was to get one of these I would get the Delta Pro Ultra all day long.
Really appreciate the time you put into this video. The only thing I would need 240 for is running my water well. I would choose the EcoFlow. Thanks again.
Thanks for putting this together! We have a mountain home in Colorado and I’m looking for a system to have us off grid. Just need the panels to charge the system and have the manual switch at the box. The Apollo is looking great! I have to find out what our max usage is, but we do have 240V in floor heating. The house is also all electric. So water heater and well boost pump will be a big draw possibly. No AC to worry about though!
Apollo would fit my needs, I want off grid
Both very capable systems, do like the Hysolis but with pricing special $1,000 off went with the DPU, one unit with 240 volt, good solar input was only looking for critical load back up. Would not have been disappointed with Hysolis and it does have some great features.
Thanks for the comparison!
I'd have to vote for the Apollo because one unit does what i want it to do now for less $ than one DP Ultra and I still have the choice of growing the system if circumstances create that need. It also seems that the DP Ultra has some early adopter issues at the moment, but then so did Apollo last year, Hysolis handled the Apollo situation very well as they loaned me one of their MPS3k units while they fixed the issues with the Apollo! Both look like great products!
Ben being offgrid the last thing I want to do is babysit my system and check to see if the solar power input has kicked on properly. I am not a big fan of having to make sure some firmware update has done its thing like it seems that you have illustrated with the DeltaPro Ultra. So in this situation my pick would be the Hysolis Apollo 5K. Thanks.
Time for a new spreadsheet
It's updated =)
Great job on the video. I must say the footprint (compactness) of the DPU and that it’s totally portable (comes with wheels) and can be hauled to remote locations with the hand cart/dolly, was, in my opinion, totally overlooked. That is so huuuge to be able to wheel your charging station to wherever you have a need.
That said, your analysis and great video quality and editing are outstanding!
Thank you for sharing the knowledge!!
Good stuff Ben! I'd totally take Apollo. Ecoflow burnt me in the past badly so screw them but even if they didn't, I live in NE so need that PV input and I just like to pull for the smaller company since it's also US based it's a no Brainer. Never regret my Growatt 3k and my Point Zero Titan purchases but yea I'd love an Apollo if I could justify the purchase😊
US based is a cultural need for me.
I feel like I can trust a smaller business much more than a larger company. Sure their resources may be less but their ethics and morals come through much more in the end and in their product&service.
I would really like to see a comparison of the efficiency with a small load, seeing how much it takes just to keep each inverter turned on.
Vampire current and inverter efficiency for small loads pretty much comes down to inverter size. NONE of the big inverters will do well. Not a single one of them. Smaller is better, bigger is worse. Universal axiom when efficiency and vampire current is a concern.
If small-load efficiency is important you basically want an external battery bank... 24V is best for small loads, and a small inverter connected to it, somewhere in the 500W to 800W range. That will generally have a vampire load of roughly 6W and be super-efficient for small loads. And still be big enough to handle a fridge cycling (for example).
Some people even use little pure-sine-wave 12V "car" inverters, at least for the 100W-300W range. Vampire draw is typically 1-2W but watt-for-watt efficiency is a bit worse for the loads.
Rule of thumb for an inverter, 50% of the inverter size is near the maximum efficiency point of the inverter watt-for-watt for loads.
-Matt
I really like both of these units. Thanks to this channel, I've been able to follow both of them for the last year. Thank you Ben!
This video was very well done. They definitely have their pros and cons to fret over. Thank goodness that both of these units are very quiet.
For me, it comes down to the initial costs.
A few times, Ben mentions needing two Apollos to match the Delta Pro Ultra (to start with).
If my goal is to have 12,000 watts running inverter output, 240 volt split phase, and 50 amp service, what will it cost me?
In this case I need to buy two Delta Pro Ultras (non-sale price $11,600) or four Apollos (non sale price $21,980)
Granted that only gives you about 12 kw of battery capacity for the DPU, versus 21.5 kw of battery capacity for the Apollo.
And really, for long term power outages, battery capacity is king.
But that roughly $22,000 for 50 amp service was more than I wanted to pay. $11,600 for delta pro ultras is bad enough.
In addition, I couldn't afford (or have the space for) the amount of panels to recharge 21.5 kw of battery quickly.
I kind of feel like its a repeat of the tortoise and the hare.
The Delta Pro Ultra is the tortoise that gets an awesome head start; but in time, the Apollo (with its overall solar/battery capacity) will catch up and surpass the DPU.
I'm with Ben's conclusion....for home/suburban use, the DPU is the way to go for small-medium setups. Even though I side with the DPU, I still have wandering eyes for the Apollo 😛
Thanks so much for sharing and for watching.
Great job 👍. I personally don’t want one system. I much prefer zone usage of different sizes. It gives me redundancy and allows me to continue to take advantage of prior purchases. I love the tech but I like basic systems. I’ve had my share of issues with software on two of mid-cap platforms. I’ve since purchased simpler systems. But hey, to each his/her own. If I was buying I’d buy the Apollo. I love EF but don’t trust them for long term.
I'd pick the Ultra. It will allow me to use my Delta Pros with it.
Great video, clear, well thought out important information and comparison.
I don't think either one would be a bad choice. Both are rock stars! I think your last category is the most important what fits the individual user. I really like that the delta makes that 240 so easy man that is an awesome innovation.
The smart panel does only have 12 knockouts but you can use split double breakers to control 24 circuits
Thank god we have you to spend 10’s of thousands of dollars of your own money and 100’s of hours to educate us. You are the greatest person alive. Thank you for all you sacrifice in your attempt to help us little people.
Wut
Great video! Thank you for providing this information!
The apollo is what i need. But being in Europe, has to be 240v from the get go on a single apollo unit.
Yes, i would love to have 1.2 gigawats (great scott!!) of power through multiple apollos and expansion batteries, but the reality is that I can’t afford from the get go 2 apollos etc.
Buying 1 apollo with 240v output and then adding expansion batteries as i go would be awesome, but unfortunately not available. 😮💨
But, being in the EU, not having a TUV/CE certification means it's not available for you.
Unfortunately, I’ve been hearing a lot of negative talk about Ecoflow’s support! I don’t know if they fixed this or not?
I can only speak from my experience which has been good. When I call them I make a point to not let them know who I am or my channel so I get normal treatment. I can understand not everyone will have the same treatment but mine has been good.
Question, If an EMP attack should occur will these inverters be functional, or will they be useless unless kept in an EMP protection bag?
They are not EMP proof.
Excellent presentation Ben. This gives me a lot to think about. At some point I will be running my 1200 sq ft off grid home with one of these or something similar. Thank you.
What up Doe MMP!?
WoW!! Amazing vid, very informative!!
Right now I'm team Ecoflow Ultra because of home backup with added smart panel
Thanks!
Wow - he didnt even thank you for this??
Grand Rising ✊🏾 I think this will be a good review.
Ben
I bought my first solar unit from you that was a Titan with 3 batteries. Could you update your views on it now. I only need a unit to survive on at my small cabin. Thank you for all you have done to help us understand solar 😅
I'm in the situation... they are running great, but... I'm wondering about how to sell them to get the latest & greatest
The Titan is still a great unit if you only need 120v power. I ran my Titan for over 4 years non-stop and it worked great. I have since upgraded my system at my cabin only because I have added 240v items and want to run them off of battery at night.
Mannnnnn! Great video.We just started installing solar this year and getting into solar powered generators. I'm always looking for the best and most economical choices for my customers and I appreciate videos like this. I heard you briefly touch on generator integration with the Apollo but not the Ultra - or I missed it. I was all Ecoflow till this video, and still am for home standby or back up power, but a lot to think about. Thanks for sharing
Excellent review, thank you
Thanks for watching.
Brother your video really help retired in phillipines the grid sucks thats only reason I'm even looking 329 kw a month bill roughly $60 don't laugh we don't run ac 24 / 7 but I want and need to. Delta pro is where I'm leaning towards just on shipping..Semper Fi
I'm glad the video helped. Best of luck, I hope you can get one to you in the Phillipines.
Ben, great job walking through all of this and I agree the correct answer to which is preferable is always, it depends..
Thanks for watching =)
I was of the understanding that if a emp went off it would fry all those devices regardless due to the circuit getting fried
Excellently done.
Apollo looks like a Mining Rig
I Love this Breakdown video and your website. Thanks
I like the name brand recognition of the Eco-Flow but I would probably go with the Apollo. I say this because I can break it apart for home and remote use as needed.
Amazing. Finally! Thought I saw 8 expansion batteries on the Hysolis. ... Did they have but downgrade?
X FACTOR CONSIDERATIONS:
Some people like the 90° cables of the DPU. And if you only had the one system, you could at least take the Apollo apart and reconfigure for a home and remote location and at least have 120V.
Thank you for your extensive testing and data.
However, with the years of issues I have had with EF, they could have received all the points, and I still would go with the Apollo.
Fair enough. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment.
I would go with the Apollo! After having my Victron system for a number of years, support is critical, and the things I’ve heard about eco-flows support worries me!
Also, the expandability (PV) is huge on the Apollo and the fact that it gets twice as many cycles is also huge!
And if you’re waiting for power to come into your system in the morning or if it’s cloudy, the eco-flow fails badly!
I would like to know if the Apollo can charge by a gas generator while running your house?
Great review! 🤙
Thanks for sharing =)
@simon359 But it doesn't get twice as many cycles. Apollo gives cycle count to 50% of original capacity and misleads the reader. Ecoflow gives cycle count to 80% of original capacity (like it has always been with all other lithium based chemistries). They have the exact same cycle life.
@@Lenluh
Interesting, different type of battery cells?
He stated in the video with the Apollo while using 220 split phase you have to charge with split phase. The DPU can accept 110 input while using 220.
@@bbariceo
On Victron, you have 180 split phase.
EcoFlow. I've been using two Delta 2 systems with two Delta Max extra batteries for 3 months without solar swapping one out while I charge the other carrying it to my daughters house to plug in for recharge. Plan to add solar soon but it has been great to have the flexability so far.
Also, love the other innovations with the Wave, Glacier and Blade. Very innovative company with a diverse assembly of additional products. A company worth watching for future technologies.
I'm a rookie when it comes to solar power so I have a question about batteries and safety with these two specific solutions. Do these units need to be installed outside in a separate structure or are they safe to be installed say in a basement next to the pain breaker panel? Any issues with the batteries off-gassing? Great video. Very informative.
Appollo is the best double battery life for the win.
In your battery category, you should compare the price per kwh not just wattage if you want to be truly judicious in your comparisons 😊
Have you had a problem with delta pro ultra sold by amazon.The q/a:"Is ac pass through possible with 120v input? A: Use the c20 outlet for a bypass mode with a 120v input. There is no bypass mode for 240v input. AC output is turned off at this time"
Great video! It would be the ecoflow for us since we are grid tied. I am also interested in how you would protect the system from an emp spike
Great video. I came to similar conclusions. The market is changing more and more. The new Anker actually might be what I get due to how portable it is in comparison plus its way cheaper. For my basic portable needs I can save 3k which allows me to upgrade elsewhere. If I wanted off grid with rare portable needs then Apollo would be the choice. I think for my off grid set up I am going with a Schneider XW Pro inverter and get the Anker to be able to wheel it around to other parts of the property. Its a shame the Apollo couldnt be more portable because I really like it's specs. Ankers PV input is its biggest limitation but to run some saws and battery charging it would be ok.
Surviving long-term power outages is one thing while running out of food can spell doom.
Which one shocks you lol, I’ll wait till Costco has a deal on the ecoflow extended warranty and easy returns.
Which unit.
Wow excellent comparison! Can you share the spreadsheet with the data of all the backup modules?! That would be cool to see! Thank you.
This technology & market continues to move forward. What is the best today will be surpassed tomorrow; reminds of the PC/CPU days beginning in the 90's where CPU speeds were constantly doubling every year. With that said, which of these should a person buy for the long haul... say 5-10 years of use... maybe more?
Thank you for all the research!! You mentioned EMP, wouldn’t that or a solar event fry these? How would you protect a system this large from an event like that? Too big for a typical faraday bag
A couple solutions are coming to market for EMP protection. Once they're ready, I'll post videos. But for now, they'd be fried in an EMP event.
@minutemanprep Solar storms won't affect these. You need long runs of conductor, which is a grid issue, and not a household issue. (If you have long runs between buildings, it MIGHT have an issue)
Why? Solar storms are low flux, long time, wide area events. The magnetic flux in any small area is, well, small. But, over long runs (like telegraph lines for the Carrington event) the charge buildup can be significant. But in a small area, (like a house) the flux isn't enough to cause any issues. It may interfere with wifi (and DEFINITELY GPS) but nothing wire/conductor related.
Foe the other EMP event, it's VERY high flux, over a wider area, but short duration. A Faraday cage is needed for this.
Love this video. How difficult and expensive is it to protect these kits from an EMP? And can the EcoPro run without WiFi?
EF DPU for the win.
Nice comparison! I like everything about the Apollo. I just wish I could afford one.
Thanks for the video. Great job I like the ultra.
Do you feel that, at some point, if you need something that large, (basically no longer "portable") you're better off just going to a component-based system? Both of those systems are INSANELY expensive, for the capacity they bring to the table. There are any number of other solutions, which aren't "portable", but you get far more system for the money. The only use case I could see for either of these over-priced beasts would be someone who has BOTH an off-grid cabin AND a large RV that they boondock with regularly. For anyone other potential buyer of a system this big, they'd be way better off building a component-based system.
My opinion is if you need upwards of 1,500 kWh/mo it's a really good idea to look into hardwired system over a power station system. But some people want to pull the units out their boxes, attach some cables, flip their interlock switch and be off-grid. With these systems you can do that. With a hard wired system, you can't do that so easily.
If you can afford them, they're the best. Best overall size, integration, capability, software, functionality...and portability. I have delta pro's running my house and I like how I can roll each one away and throw them in a truck and take them to a cabin.
I pick the Apollos. That said, "portability" is relative. One Apollo weighs ~ 135lbs. One Apollo expansion battery weighs ~116lbs. The cart made for them rolls like glass, so that is not a problem. I don't know what DPU's weigh, but 135lbs. is not something easily picked up and moved without 2 people. The smaller Apollo footprint, the additional 3000 cycles, and ease of service with legitimate English speakers does it for me.
I am "switching" from a gas backup generator to Apollos, (sort of). I have a manual switching system wired in long ago with a transfer box that I will keep for Apollos. I know how it works, plus I will keep the gas generator. I can use the gas generator to charge the Apollo system when needed, plus use the generator anytime the Apollo system might fail.
You cannot charge an Apollo from your wall (electric utility) at the same time you charge it using a gas generator. You can charge with solar at the same time as either of the above.
With a four Apollo system, one or two can fail and the others will get you by. With two DPUs if one fails you are down by 50% and if both fail you are down to zero. Even one Apollo is better than zero.
It's a close choice, and Ben is right. What do you need, what do you want, and what do you want to pay or can afford? Neither system is cheap. I decided before I started this experiment that the idea of it paying for itself over time is a nonexistent issue for me. I want emergency power 1st, 2d, and last. Solar where I live is not the best as it is in AZ, NM, or TX. If you absolutely have to have solar pay for itself, perhaps you should forget it and stick with Edison.
All of the above said, I don't see much wrong with a DPU system if that is your preference.
Finally, If I want a hardwired system I would use Victron components and skip portability. I may yet do that, too, for unused space above my garage. Even so, I want a manual plug in system, not automatic switching. I know how that works and fully understand it. I can do that with any system, portable or Victron. Nothing requires you to hardwire Victron to your house.
All systems have pros and cons------ your choice. Bottom line: Apollos for me.
Thanks, Ben. You explained it well the same as always.
@@minutemanprep - I agree that some people think these systems are easier to hook up, and they are, but only by small degrees over the increasingly easy-to-install modular systems. The new 6000XP from EG4 (Luxpower) is dead simple, very powerful, very scalable, and really much better suited for a whole house solution than anything portable. Plus, it's quite a bit less expensive. You pay a real premium for the largest of the (marginally) portable systems.
@@MotoJB - I can see that working, in very specific situations, but it's a very expensive solution. You could almost buy two stationary systems for the same price, and never have to move anything around.
Wouldn't an EMP just take these things out if you are within range?
Yes, unless you have the units in a Faraday cage the electronics will be junk. The battery may still pass power on its own. I stress the word may because nobody has even tested to see if an emp will disable a lithium battery.
Very infirmative! thanks! Please include review on monitoring options, lan, wifi, bluetooth, alerting etc.. :)
For me I would Take the Apollo...Just learning about this stuff.Looking to buy a off grid system...Right now I do have a back Generator.It only keeps the lights on.Where is the video on you hooking together 4 Apollo's into split phase.Please let me know where I can fine that.Thanks>:))
Excellent video! :) :)
Thanks Jason!
Be curious to compare Apollo and the EcoFlow Delta Pro 3...Have heard the 3 isn't as good as the Ultra, so mya just need to go with this great comparison, TY
This was awesome. Thank you
Thank you for doing what you do! Great presentation it helped me a lot.
the never can have solar guy here. virtually no videos for that type of of customer that i’ve seen. ben, which of these would you pick for someone that will be recharging it with a dual fuel generator, if a prolonged outage? please do a video for no solar people please. thanks!
Very interesting, the issue you mentioned at 23:45 is also with Delta Pro (the version before Ultra), so it seems like EcoFlow is struggling to fix this issue
Great video. Can you charge these with (2 phase) 208V, while still outputting (split phase) 240V?
To be fair, you were using a preproduction unit, so that means you were also using a beta version of the app, which I would make sure you're now using the official version. There is a longer cable coming out for the DPU but both are good systems and I want your DPU batteries lol
Has anyone done a video on how clean the power is coming out of any of these
Awesome video, Thanks for sharing.
I love my Apollo 5K !!!
so 1 Ultra = to 2 Apollo. just looking at amount of space each setup take up is huge. 3-phase 208V is nice to have if needed with the Apollo. The Ultra dose have a longer cable that was available at lunch so I have no idea what he is talking about as that's not an option.
great video, but what i didn't hear you talk about is where can these units be placed. Do they have to be in a climate controlled area or can they be in a shed?
I like EcoFlow DPU
You mentioned that the Appolo is better in an RV because not having tomstack them, however I don't recall you mentioning how many ways the Apollo can charge. The DP ultra has can charge with solar, regular wall outlet, 240v, connected to the cars alternator as well as with additional charging with a smart plug with the adapter. Does the Apollo have the same options?
I'm not sure which to get. I know zero and need it set up by someone and basic tutoring. I think I'll get one but like portability a lot. I'm going to decide by May but sure have to find help. I can't even follow all the connector advice you give. I'm a disabled officer and have a brain injury. I don't have much in loss of thinking but my memory is pretty bad. I do want to get a system asap. Thank you for your video. I had narrowed my choice between these exact units and do have budget limits. So I'll get one unit so perhaps the Delta is best but I do worry about less charging panels with a package.
If you'd like please email me at info@poweredportablesolar.com
Excellent presentation. Any ideas on what would work on a boat? If i get one, i would like to be able to take it with me.
apollo for me
The only thing that really matters to me if they both were charged if they are all would charge with solar and solar alone. And then it doesn't matter to me. One way or another how it charges as long as it charges with solar panels. And that'll make me happy and if it's still running loads.
My need is for automated home grid use
Great video
Thanks.
Being amongst all of these large power banks, have you ever thought about exposure of any kind to your body?
Is that even a thing?
I'm not concerned from what I have seen and studied.
Do you think that another important criteria would be cost/watt ?
Great video. Thank you.
What is solar charge time from 0 to 100% when solar is maxed out?
How can you write off your cost of purchase ecoflow etc? Business/LLC/non-profit?
Still a LOT of bugs to be worked out on the DPU....and SHP2
I think they've gotten most of them out, but it's hard to say I'm 100% comfortable. But that could be because I'm part of the beta testing and am destined to find those bugs. Overall I think the DPU is awesome.
I like the apollo for it's simplicity. How about the anker solix?