POWER INVERTERS

Neat devices convert 12V to mains power to charge all manner of kit in-car. Which is best?

PRODUCT GROUP TEST 25| 7| 2018 Every week, we extensively test all the latest car kit from tyres to trim cleaners. Log on to www.autoexpress.co.uk to look through our huge online test archive

WE’RE relying more and more on our portable electronic gadgets, all of which demand constant power or charging. A power bank is one answer, but it won’t help with larger items and this, too, could go flat.

For more versatility, an inverter, which converts 12V car power to 240V mains electricity, is extremely useful day to day. It is even more handy when spending longer periods away from a 240V supply, such as touring or camping. It can also be used to power tools such as drills or sanders, or to provide lighting for garages that have no mains power connection.

Howwe tested them

WE connected a selection of portable devices, including an iphone, ipad, Android phone and an HP laptop. We logged whether the USB socket (where fitted) was Apple-friendly. Then we added a couple of items of garage equipment in the form of a 24-LED lead light and an 18V battery charger. We recorded how well they coped, measured the fan noise using an iphone app decibel meter and the voltage when powering a 60W bulb.

Verdict

AS before, the Ring RINVU300 stays ahead of the Bestek, although the competition is heating up, with the Portable Powertech 300W making an impressive debut to take the second ‘recommended’ position.

1. Ring Powersource Inverter RINVU300 2. Bestek Power Inverter MR13013BU 3. Portable Powertech 12v Power Inverter