FOSSiBOT F3600 Portable Power Station Review: Downright Impressive!

I recently had the chance to test out the FOSSiBOT F3600 Portable Power Station, and I found it to be an impressive piece of equipment with only a few notable drawbacks. FOSSiBOT was kind enough to lend me a sample to test, so today I’m here to report on what exactly I liked and didn’t like about it. This is a step-up from their F2400 model, which I also recently had the pleasure of testing.

The F3600 offers a massive 3840Wh capacity, which is more than enough for any off-grid adventure or emergency scenario. The 15 versatile outputs, including various AC and USB ports, make it incredibly convenient.

This is a well-made power station that’s priced affordably when compared to more-popular brands like Ecoflow and Bluetti. In fact, the price-per-watt is significantly less, making it a great option for those who want to obtain a reliable power source without breaking the bank.

Key Takeaways

• The FOSSiBOT F3600 features a 3840Wh capacity, supporting high-wattage devices like heaters, refrigerators, and laptops for extended durations.
• It includes 15 versatile output ports, including AC outlets, USB-A, USB-C, DC5521, and a cigarette lighter.
• Equipped with an efficient cooling system that activates only when necessary, ensuring silent operation under normal conditions.
• Rapid charging capabilities allow it to recharge in under two hours using dual solar and AC inputs.
• Weighing approximately 92 pounds, it is heavy but equipped with wheels and a retractable handle for easier movement.

What I Liked

Huge Capacity

The immense 3840Wh capacity of the FOSSiBOT F3600 Portable Power Station truly impressed me, making it an ideal solution for extended off-grid adventures and reliable emergency backup.

Whether you’re planning a multi-week camping trip, living the RV lifestyle, or preparing for potential power outages, this power station’s capacity guarantees you’ll have a steady and reliable power source.

This enormous capacity is achieved using EV-grade LiFePO4 battery cells, which are known for their safety, reliability, and longevity. Rated for over 6500 lifecycles, this battery technology guarantees that the F3600 will provide consistent performance for years to come.

I found it particularly reassuring to know that the power station could handle high-wattage devices like heaters and refrigerators without breaking a sweat. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone needing robust, dependable power in a semi-portable package.

Plenty of Outputs

Among the standout features of the FOSSiBOT F3600, its generous array of 15 different outputs truly sets it apart. This power station is designed to accommodate a wide range of devices, making it incredibly versatile for any situation, whether you’re camping, dealing with a power outage, or just need extra outlets for your gadgets.

Here’s a quick rundown of the outputs:

• 4 standard AC wall outlets: Perfect for appliances and larger devices that require more power.
• 1 120V 30-amp port: Excellent for powering RV’s or high-amperage devices.
• 2 USB-A ports: Ideal for older devices that still use USB-A.
• 4 USB-C ports: Great for newer tech, including laptops and smartphones.
• 1 cigarette lighter: Handy for car accessories or portable coolers.
• 2 DC5521 ports: Useful for specific equipment like certain types of lights.
• 1 XT60 port: Excellent for high-current devices like drones.

I love that I can run up to 15 devices simultaneously without any issues with overheating. This flexibility means I can charge my laptop, phone, camera, and even power a small fridge all at the same time.

The variety of ports guarantees that I’m never scrambling to find the right adapter or outlet. It’s a well-thought-out feature that enhances the overall utility of the FOSSiBOT F3600.

Ample Cooling

With the FOSSiBOT F3600, I was genuinely impressed by its effective internal cooling system that only activates when absolutely necessary. During my testing, I had it charging and powering four different devices simultaneously, yet the cooling fans didn’t need to turn on. This feature really stood out, especially given that many power stations tend to overheat or need constant cooling.

The fans only kicked in when the ambient temperature reached or exceeded 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that in most regular conditions, the unit operates silently, which is a huge plus. The quiet operation of the cooling system is quite remarkable considering the size and power of the F3600. It’s not just about keeping the noise down; it’s about efficiently managing the internal temperature without unnecessary energy use.

I found this feature particularly useful when using the power station indoors or during camping trips where silence is appreciated. It’s clear that FOSSiBOT has put significant thought into the design and functionality of their cooling system. This attention to detail guarantees that the F3600 can handle high-demand situations without compromising on performance or convenience.

Vivid Display Screen

One standout feature of the FOSSiBOT F3600 is its vivid display screen that provides clear, real-time readings of input, output, and battery metrics. As someone who values transparency and ease of use, I found this screen incredibly helpful. It’s bright, easy to read, and offers a wealth of information at a glance, making it simple to monitor the power station’s performance.

The built-in screen is located on the end with all the outputs, giving immediate insight into critical data without needing to navigate through complex menus. Even though it can give off a bit of glare in direct sunlight, it remains very usable.

Here are some of the display’s highlights:

• Live Readings: Shows real-time input and output power.
• Battery Percentage: Clearly indicates the remaining battery life.
• Charge/Discharge Time: Estimates how long the battery will last under current conditions.
• Activated Ports: Displays which ports are currently in use.
• User-Friendly Interface: Easy to understand and navigate.

This screen is an essential feature, especially during outdoor activities or power outages, where quick access to power metrics can make all the difference. It adds a layer of confidence, knowing exactly how much power is left and how it’s being utilized.

Input Setting Dial

A feature I genuinely appreciated on the FOSSiBOT F3600 is the input setting dial, which allows quick adjustments to the input wattage to avoid overloading your power source. This dial is a game-changer, especially in off-grid scenarios where power sources can be unpredictable.

I found it incredibly practical when using solar panels or a generator, as it enabled me to tailor the input wattage, ensuring a stable and efficient charge without stressing the power source. The ability to make these adjustments on the fly gave me peace of mind, knowing I could prevent potential overloading issues.

This flexibility makes the F3600 not just another portable power station but a thoughtful piece of equipment designed with real-world use in mind. Whether I was charging from an AC outlet or harnessing solar energy, the input setting dial allowed me to optimize the charging process.

Most power stations don’t offer this level of control, making the FOSSiBOT F3600 stand out in a crowded market. This feature alone considerably enhanced my user experience, particularly when I needed to manage power flow carefully to maintain the longevity and efficiency of my energy sources.

Incredibly Quick Charging

Charging the FOSSiBOT F3600 is impressively fast, taking less than two hours when using both solar and AC inputs in ideal conditions. This rapid charging capability is a game-changer, especially for those who need reliable power on the go. I was amazed by how quickly the internal batteries replenished, allowing me to get back to my activities without much downtime.

One of the key aspects that make this possible is the F3600’s ability to handle a combined input. By utilizing up to 2000W of solar power alongside the AC input, the charging speed is maximized, ensuring you’re never left waiting.

Here are some standout features that contribute to its incredibly quick charging:

• Dual Input Capability: Utilizing both solar and AC inputs simultaneously drastically cuts down charging time.
• High Solar Input: Supports up to a 2000W solar array, making it efficient even in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
• Rapid AC Charging: Capable of handling up to 1500W from an AC outlet, recharging the station in under 4 hours on its own.
• Versatile Charging Options: Whether you’re at home or on the road, you can charge via AC, solar, or even your car, but car charging is slow, taking up to 30+ hours.
• Durable Battery Technology: The LiFePO4 batteries not only charge quickly but also offer longevity and safety.

This combination of features makes the FOSSiBOT F3600 a powerhouse in both performance and convenience.

UPS Feature

During my testing, I found the UPS feature on the FOSSiBOT F3600 to be incredibly reliable and fundamental for maintaining power during unexpected blackouts. This feature guarantees that my essential devices, like my computer and CPAP machine, stay fully powered without any interruption.

In a blackout, the F3600 automatically kicks in with less than a 10ms response time, meaning there’s no delay or downtime. This instant switch-over capability is vital for protecting sensitive equipment and preventing data loss.

I was particularly impressed by how seamlessly the F3600 handled the shift. I connected my computer and a few other essential devices to the power station, while keeping it plugged into my home’s AC wall outlet.

When I simulated a power outage, the F3600 didn’t miss a beat, maintaining power flawlessly. This kind of reliability brings peace of mind, especially during stormy seasons when blackouts are more common.

Included Extras

The reliable UPS feature isn’t the only standout aspect of the FOSSiBOT F3600; I also appreciated the thoughtful extras included in the package.

First off, the high-quality handheld flashlight included in the box is a wonderful bonus. It’s incredibly bright and made from durable aluminum, making it an excellent bonus for any situation, especially unexpected power outages.

There’s a dedicated light bar on the flashlight, as well as a beam on one end. It’s rechargeable via USB, and very compact. It pairs well with the built-in, brightly-lit LED bar on the “input” side of the unit.

Next, the accessories pouch is a small yet significant inclusion. It holds all the charging cables and can be strapped onto the top of the unit for easy storage, ensuring that everything is kept organized and accessible.

Another great feature is the moisture-resistant rain cover. This cover lets you protect the power station from rain, making it ideal for outdoor conditions without worrying about damage. Additionally, the package comes with all the necessary charging cables and adapters, which simplifies the setup process.

What I Didn’t Like

No Mobile App

One minor drawback is the lack of a mobile app for the FOSSiBOT F3600, which would have added extra convenience for monitoring and controlling the device remotely. In today’s tech-savvy world, having a companion app to manage settings or check the status of your power station from your phone would be incredibly useful. Without this feature, users are limited to the physical interface on the device itself.

While the F3600 is fully functional without an app, here’s what a mobile app could have offered:

• Remote Monitoring: Check battery levels, power input/output, and charging status without having to be physically near the unit.
• Firmware Updates: Easily update the device’s software to enhance performance or fix bugs.
• Custom Alerts: Receive notifications for low battery, charging completion, or any malfunctions.
• Control Features: Turn outlets on or off, adjust settings, or switch modes remotely.
• Usage Statistics: View historical data on power consumption and efficiency to optimize usage.

Despite this omission, the FOSSiBOT F3600 remains a solid choice for those seeking a reliable portable power station.

However, potential buyers should consider if the absence of a mobile app is a deal-breaker for their specific needs.

Very Heavy

Despite its impressive features, I found the FOSSiBOT F3600’s weight to be a drawback. Weighing in at about 92 pounds (42 kilograms), this portable power station can be a bit cumbersome to move around.

For a device that’s marketed for camping, RV use, and general portability, its heft may be a serious concern. Lifting it in and out of the back of a truck or carrying it up a flight of stairs is no small task. This weight makes it challenging for anyone who isn’t particularly strong or who may have back issues. You’ll definitely want some assistance if lifting it.

However, I do appreciate that FOSSiBOT has tried to mitigate this issue with some thoughtful design elements. The built-in wheels and retractable handle make it relatively easier to roll around on flat surfaces. Additionally, the two built-in handles with padded grips are a nice touch, allowing for a two-person carry, which distributes the weight more evenly.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I’m really impressed with the FOSSiBOT F3600 Portable Power Station. Its massive capacity and variety of outputs make it super versatile for any situation.

The cooling system is quiet, and the display screen is easy to read. Though it’s heavy, the wheels and handle make moving it around manageable.

The lack of a mobile app is a downside, but its fast charging and UPS feature more than make up for it.

If you’re looking for a well-priced LiFePO4 portable power station with a significantly lower price tag than most options in its class, this is the one.