Today we’re taking a look at a variety of products from Nestout, including shock and waterproof batteries, unique lighting solutions, and travel ready, portable solar panels. This is my review:
Nestout is a Japanese based brand owned by Elecom, founded back in 1986. They’re more known for their gaming equipment (keyboards, mice, webcams, etc) but have recently branched out into the outdoor space and they’re bringing some innovation. Up for analysis are two portable chargers/battery banks, a portable lamp add-on (LAMP-1), a positional/directional lamp add-on (FLASH-1), and a portable solar generator panel kit (SOLAR-1).
Starting with the battery banks, as they are the core of everything we’re looking at today, these are not traditional chargers. They’re constructed out of hard, shock resistant plastic with an internal shock absorbing layer to protect from drops and impact. They are waterproof, dustproof, and also feature protection circuits for overheating, overcharging, excessive discharg, and more. They have a fantastic canteen-like look to them that is somehow both decidedly modern yet classic at the same time. Handy power LEDs display how much battery remains, while a power button cuts off the power output, which allows it to hold a charger longer when not in use. The screw on top provides a water tight seal, but occasionally can snag on the O-ring at the bottom of the threads, so watch out for that.
There are two lamps in this review. The LAMP-1 provides 360 degree lighting, while the FLASH-1 directs light forward, for concentrating lumens on a single focal point. Both lamps connect to either size battery pack using a small adapter screw on adapter and a locking clamp with push button release. They are controlled via an elegant, retro-inspired twist knob that reminds me of gas lamps of yesteryear. Initiating the lamp starts with a nice click, and continuing to turn the knob increases the brightness. I love the feel and the simplicity of the controls, but connecting to the battery itself can be a little frustrating. They require an adapter that has to be screwed on first, which is directional and prone to cross threading if attempted to connect it upside down. In dim conditions it’s often hard to tell which side screws onto the battery and which side connects to the lamp. I would have preferred if the lamp could connect directly to the battery without the need for an adapter, but once it is locked in place it is secure, water tight, and makes for a great looking centerpiece at camp. I also like the tripod stands. These screw onto the bottom of the batteries and allow them to stand just about anywhere. These also double as a hanging point, but doesn’t include a carabiner or any type of clip. The LAMP-1 provides plenty enough light for a small, intimate camp with it’s 300-1000 lumen range without being blinding or harsh. The FLASH-1 provides the same output, just in a more concentrated area. It serves well as a task light, helping with cooking or reading, but isn’t really bright enough for traditional photography as the name might suggest. It would help in a pinch, but dedicated hardware is still the way to go there. Still, it has its uses.
The SOLAR-1 has a lot going on. It comes in a two and four panel design, the smaller of which is tested here. When folded, the panels are protected internally underneath a water and dust resistant zipper. When it is unfolded, it can be propped up with kickstands that lock in place at varying heights and hang via small Velcro tabs, allowing it to be directed towards the sun. Inside there is a power output display that registers in amps, seemingly on a range of 0 to 2.4. Maximum wattage output is pretty good at 14 watts via the Maxeon cells, which is enough to charge two battery packs at once, phones, tablets, and even a laptop if you’re desperate. It features two USB-A outputs protected under rubber covers, a single USB cable, and a couple of loops to help secure batteries in place. It’s a neat setup but can be a little fiddly to use until you realize how it all comes together. I found the elastic battery retention straps tend to stretch out a bit, especially with the larger battery size, but otherwise it is built pretty solid. I was disappointed to learn that the batteries cannot be stored inside the SOLAR-1 pouch, as they are too thick, but that’s a minor complaint. Construction wise, it has a fairly rugged yet flexible body built primarily from ripstop nylon, with decent stitching and reinforced stress points.
Overall
When used together, the Nestout equipment is versatile, and honestly kind of fun. The large capacity batteries can be used to charge phones, tablets, or just power the Nestout FLASH-1 or LAMP-1. The SOLAR-1 panel keeps everything topped up and is great for having around in case of an emergency or sustained power outage. While hauling the entire kit isn’t terribly backpacker friendly due to the weight and size, it’s perfect for car camping, preparedness, or longer excursions where you’ll need a lot of light for a long time. Thankfully, the smaller battery pack and LAMP-1 when used as a duo is light enough for backpacking and fits nicely into even small packs. The items are priced well, have held up great in my testing, and have a wide range of uses, making them easy to recommend.
Highly Recommended
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I want to extend a huge thanks to Nestout for providing this product for review. We couldn’t do it without their help.
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