The Chinese battery manufacturer, Marstek, is unveiling three products at CES 2026, including one very interesting. A compact, powerful and rather affordable solar battery. We were there, here is our first opinion.
Marstek is taking advantage of CES 2026 to expand its range with USB-C rechargeable AA/AAA Li-ion batteries, new ruggedized external batteries (powerbanks) and the V500 solar battery designed for outdoors.
On site, handling gives the impression of well-finished and practical products, but it will obviously be necessary to wait for a complete test to decide on endurance, thermal resistance and reliability over time.
V500: the solar battery for the outdoors
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The MARSTEK V500 is announced as a waterproof solar generator (solar battery) with an output power of 500 W (1000 W peak), which makes it more suitable for sensitive electronics (PCs, cameras, small appliances) than for very demanding household appliances.
Marstek also highlights a 2 kWh LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) chemistry and an IP65 design (dust + water resistance), clearly geared towards camping, van and emergency power.
On the charging side, the brand announces a 500 W PV input (solar panels), a 750 W AC input and the possibility of powering devices while recharging the station.
In other words: on paper, it is a product that aims for autonomy and versatility more than raw performance, and this is often what van owners are looking for.
P326D / P327D: all-terrain power bank
Marstek is also exhibiting the P326D and P327D, external batteries (powerbank) for recharging devices via USB, with TFT screen which displays the battery level, charge/discharge status and power in real time.
The most striking promise here is IPX7, which aims for more peaceful use in the rain (or even in the event of accidental immersion), typically when hiking, boating or fishing.
Another well-regarded idea: a detachable USB‑C to USB‑C cable which also acts as a wrist strap, with the possibility of charging two devices simultaneously and fast charging announced at up to 65 W on one port.
Also note the mention “certified aircraft safety”: this is a frequent argument about power banks, but it will be necessary to check the exact capacity (in Wh) depending on the version, because it is this which conditions acceptance in the cabin.
AA/AAA lithium batteries: the return of 1.5 V
Last part, more discreet but potentially very practical in everyday life: rechargeable Li‑ion (lithium) batteries in AA and AAA formats, with USB‑C charging. Marstek insists on a nominal voltage of 1.5 V “stable”, a key point for certain devices which behave better with 1.5 V than with conventional rechargeable Ni‑MH batteries (often at 1.2 V).
The brand also announces 80% charge retained after 3 years of storage, up to 1,500 cycles, and possible discharge down to -20°C, which clearly targets outdoor uses (lamps, photo accessories, etc.).
On the product page, Marstek presents this range as AA/AAA Li‑ion (kits available depending on the pack), which confirms the “simple replacement of everyday batteries” orientation.
Handling and price: encouraging, to be confirmed by testing
After a visit to the stand, the first impression is positive: serious finishes, a pleasant product in the hand, and a practical side that is quickly seen (readable screen, accessories designed for portable use).
But at this stage, there remain important unknowns that only a test can validate: real performance of the 2 kWh, behavior of the inverter at sustained load, noise / thermal management, and resistance of the seal over time.
Notable point: Marstek mentions a European price for the V500 between 300 and 400 euros, which, if confirmed at launch, would place it very aggressively against stations of comparable capacity.
It remains to be seen the compromises (connectivity, guarantees, availability of parts / after-sales service in Europe): on this type of product, this is often where the difference between a good deal and a risky purchase is made.
