EcoFlow's new River Gen4 power stations pack more energy into smaller, lighter designs
EcoFlow unveiled its fourth-generation River series, featuring the 260 and 520 models with capacities of 256Wh and 512Wh respectively. The units use LFP chemistry for improved safety and longevity, and the 520 can run a standard US fridge for about four hours. They are notably more compact and lighter than similarly specced competitors.
The new units feature a bidirectional 140W USB-C PD3.1 port, enabling direct DC charging without a separate power brick. Both models also function as uninterruptible power supplies, switching over in under ten milliseconds. The 260 model provides 300W through a single AC outlet, while the 520 delivers 500W across two outlets.
Using safer LFP chemistry, these batteries hold roughly 2.5 to 5 times the energy of the largest power banks permitted on flights. Their compact dimensions and reduced weight make them suitable for overnight trips, remote photo shoots, or keeping a standard refrigerator operational during a four-hour outage.
The shift toward higher energy density in portable power stations could make off-grid electricity more accessible to campers, digital nomads, and homeowners facing short outages. By prioritizing LFP chemistry, manufacturers may improve long-term safety and battery lifespan, potentially reducing electronic waste. However, the modest continuous wattage (300W to 500W) could limit adoption for users needing to run heavy appliances, meaning these units may serve as a bridge between small power banks and larger home backup systems.