What is the best portable power station? The OPS-300 is our top pick.

Portable power stations are vital devices for keeping devices such as medical equipment, radios, appliances and smartphones charged and running during an emergency. Many power stations have standard AC outlets and USB ports that can power multiple types of equipment at the same time.

The advantage of portable power stations over traditional generators is that they do not require gasoline, kerosene or propane to operate. Not only will this save you money and time spent on engine maintenance, but it will also make backup batteries safer for indoor use.

Power stations also give you a wider range of power output options than traditional generators. If you just want to keep your phone charged and the radio running, you can use a handheld inverter.

However, if you need to keep high-power equipment (like CPAPs or oxygen generators or even kitchen appliances) running, you can buy a power station with an electrical output comparable to a conventional generator.

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Portable power stations are also quieter than traditional generators and feature push-button start and instant start; no more struggling with pull-start and warm-up cycles.

If you want a more in-depth look at the differences between portable power stations and traditional generators, you can read our feature article, which covers everything from cost and energy needs to how weather and even earthquakes can affect your emergency power options. You can also check out our list of the best home generators for whole-home emergency power.

The OPS-300 is designed to provide you with safe, reliable power in an emergency.

It has 1000 watts of output, which means you can do anything from charging phones and tablets to keeping your mini fridge running or setting up a space heater to keep you warm during a winter storm.

It features 3 standard AC outlets for plugging in items like lights, heating blankets and medical equipment, 2 USB-C ports and 2 USB Type-A ports for charging electronic devices.