Sometimes, it’s just too hot to go outside and play. Why not try this DIY smartphone projector? You can enjoy time with the kids while staying cool.
Is this portable power station for your outdoor adventures worth the price?
Last month, I took a camping trip to the Grand Canyon. We had the typical gear you would expect: a tent, tarp, cots, sleeping bags, camp stove, flashlights and more.
I also brought along a home theater of sorts that included a projector, Apple TV and a 100-inch screen designed to attach to a portable canopy. It was all powered by a high-end Lithium-ion power station and four solar panels.
Check out my full review on that one here, but I get that not everyone has or would be willing to spend $2,700 on a solar generator set. If you don’t need that much juice for camping trips or to power large appliances during outages, other options are far more affordable …
Say hello to the Anker PowerHouse II 800
The Anker PowerHouse II 800 is a portable power station with some pretty impressive specs for its relatively small size. Here are the highlights:
- 777 watt-hours
- 2 AC outlets
- 2 DC outlets (including specialized “Anderson” ports)
- 2 USB-C ports
- 4 USB-A ports
- 11.8″ x 8″ x 7.2″
- 18.3 lbs.
- Retails for
This power station is also capable of recharging via solar panels, which are not included. What is included in the box is an AC adapter, USB-A to USB-C cable, USB-C to USB-C cable and a DC cable to plug into your car.
It’s powerful enough to handle your mobile devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops and more, along with certain small appliances rated under 500W. So it’ll power lamps, TVs, blenders, mini-fridges, etc., but don’t try to plug in bigger appliances like toasters or microwaves. More on that later.
The best part about this whole thing is that you can have everything plugged in simultaneously. That’s up to 11 devices total.
Getting to know this power station
This power station had roughly a 30% charge out of the box, so the first order of business was to plug it in. It reached 100% in a little over four hours.
Also in the box were the cables mentioned above, but really not all that much in the way of documentation. While the various ports are pretty self-explanatory and the quick start guide covers the operation basics, there’s just not much in best practices for maintaining the power station — only a few tips on the last page of the booklet.
7 projectors to create a home theater on any budget
© Elmomelting | Dreamstime.com
Miss going out to the movies? You can make a movie theater right in your own home for a lot less than you think with a projector.
A nice TV set may give you a brighter and more detailed picture, but a projector is the best way to create a big-screen experience without completely blowing your budget. You can set it up and take it down, too, so no worries if you don’t have a room that can serve as your theater all the time.
Virtual party list
🥳 Hosting or heading to a get-together? Let’s get the fun started.
- 🎁 Wrapping, handled: This double-sided organizer (28% off) keeps your gift bags, ribbons and bows tidy.
- 🍷 Pop, pour, press: All with a four-in-one wine opener (15% off) that aerates and seals when the party’s over.
- 🍫 More like fun-do: NutriChef’s electric fondue pot (8% off) makes gooey goodness in minutes.
- 🚀 Vibes in overdrive: Bring the night sky indoors with a galaxy light projector (19% off). 4.4 stars and 7,000+ reviews.
- ⛺ “No adults allowed” zone: From playing to reading, this kid’s canopy (28% off) gives ’em a cozy space to do it.
🛍️ Still stumped? I got you. An e-gift card is a great last-minute idea. And don’t forget, more gift-worthy finds are on my Amazon store.
We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.
DIY smartphone projector
You only need a few supplies for this fun project. Go ahead and give it a shot!
Bed-ly in need of sleep
😴 Here’s your A-list of bedroom upgrades for top-tier zzz’s.
- Wake up without bedhead with a two-pack of sleep bonnets ($13).
- Can’t reach your nightstand? Grab a handy bedside caddy ($16.49).
- These cooling gel pillows ($46) are great for back and side sleepers.
- Guests coming over? This air mattress (20% off) has a built-in pump.
- A four-pack of bedsheet organizers (40% off) keeps your linens tidy.
🌃 Cosmic dreams: Turn your ceiling into a starry sky with a galaxy projector (44% off) that looks like a cute astronaut.
We may earn a commission from purchases, but our recommendations are always objective.