The Freeloader Solar Charger

The freeloader solar charger is another one of the wide range of units in the approximately $100 range. It is similar to the Solio solar charger in that the unit contains a Lithium Ion battery that can also be charged from the grid. Unlike the Solio however, the Freeloader can only be charged through a USB plug into a computer. This is recommended as the best method to first charge the battery. This can take up to 8 hours, meaning that setting up the Freeloader for use is a bit more work than with the Solio or Soldius solar charger.

It comes with the usual swag of connectors for the majority of current mobile devices, but it is always worth checking that the devices you have are on the compatability list. A potential vendor should have the most up to date list of compatible items.

The Battery

The Freeloader's internal battery is rated as 1000mAh. The warranty on the device does not cover the battery though it is stated as having a useful life of two years. The battery is fairly low capacity when compared to the Solio's 1800mAh battery. The lower capacity of the Freeloader battery is the reason for its shorter charging time but this also means a smaller amount of stored power.

Issues With The Product

The Freeloader looks rugged with its Aluminium case, however the user's manual states that "Any severe shock or impact may result in damage and will invalidate the warranty." Like the other devices in this range, the Freeloader needs to be taken care of and protected from the elements. While its exterior may appear more durable than those of the other chargers, it is not guaranteed to be waterproof, heat proof or shock resistent.

The need for a computer to charge the Freeloader from the mains electricity, combined with the relatively small battery capacity, make the Freeloader less valuable as a mobile power source than its competitors.