Spectre 18W

This isn’t your average solar panel. Spectre 18W is ultra-durable, weatherproof, and designed to keep your gear powered when the grid’s nowhere in sight. It’s fast, efficient, and built to work—day after day, in the harshest conditions.

Spectre 18W

This isn’t your average solar panel. Spectre 18W is ultra-durable, weatherproof, and designed to keep your gear powered when the grid’s nowhere in sight. It’s fast, efficient, and built to work—day after day, in the harshest conditions.

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Highlights

  • Charge your gear anywhere the sun shines

  • Flexible cells bend without breaking

  • Lightweight solar, just over 20oz

  • IPX7 waterproof means you're ready for any weather

  • Can charge Poseidon Pro in 4 hours

  • Backed by 2 year warranty

Specs

18 W Total Maximum Output: USB‑C (18 W, 9 V/2 A) + USB‑A (15 W, 5 V/3 A)

20.5 oz ultra-lightweight build 

IPX7 waterproof: no more worrying about rain or river spray

Armor‑Flex™ Protection with 200 lb crush rating

Photo‑Skyn™ technology flexes under load, and keeps charging in cloudy conditions

Built-in sun meter with 4 LEDs to show charging speed and optimize charging

Kickstand included to improve solar efficiency by up to ~25%

MIL‑STD‑810G rated for impact and drop resistance

Multiple latch points for secure mounting

Folds up for easy packing and transport

Supported temperature range approximately –20 °F to 120 °F—built to charge reliably in harsh climates

Dimensions

Folded:
Height: 12.25 in (31.15 cm)
Width:  9.5 in (24.12 cm)

Thickness: 1.5 in (3.81 cm)

 

Unfolded:
Height: 12.25 in (31.15 cm)
Width:  25 in (63.5 cm)

Thickness: 0.75 in (1.9 cm)

 

Weight: 20.5 oz 

FAQ's

Q: Does the Spectre 18W store power?

A: No. The Spectre is a solar panel only—it doesn’t have a built-in battery. It’s designed to charge external devices or power banks. The Spectre 18W was specifically designed to charge Poseidon Pro directly using sunlight.

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Q: Why am I only getting one LED light when using the Spectre 18W?


A: This usually depends on your location and how strong the sunlight is. More LED lights mean more solar output—but even one light means the panel is generating power and your device is charging.

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Q: How long will it take to charge my device using the Spectre 18W?


A: Charging times vary based on sunlight, cloud cover, and panel placement. 
Here’s what to expect in full sun:

Poseidon Nano: 1–2 hours

Poseidon Pro: 3–5 hours

Phone: 1–3 hours (we recommended charging to a battery for a better experience)

Using the included kickstand and sun meter can significantly improve charging efficiency.

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Spectre 18W

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Maximum of 18W output

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1 USB-C + 1 USB-A output port

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Designed to charge Poseidon Pro

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Flexible Solar Cells

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Ideal for that carry more battery powered gear

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Folded Size: 
9.5” × 12.25” × 1.5”
Unfolded Size:
25” × 12.25” × 0.75”

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Weight: 20.5 oz

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Spectre 8W

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Maximum of 8W output

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1 USB-C + 1 USB-A output port

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Designed to charge Poseidon Nano

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Flexible Solar Cells

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Ideal for those that need the lightest power generation

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Folded Size: 
9” × 8.75” × 1.5”
Unfolded Size:
16.75” × 8.75” × 0.75”

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Weight: 9.5 oz

SOLAR BUILT FOR THE BACKCOUNTRY

RUGGED WHERE IT COUNTS

This panel doesn’t need a protective case—it is one. With crush-resistant construction, waterproof materials, and flexible solar cells that won’t crack under pressure, the Spectre is made to thrive in the wild, not just survive it.

RUGGED WHERE IT COUNTS

This panel doesn’t need a protective case—it is one. With crush-resistant construction, waterproof materials, and flexible CIGS cells that won’t crack under pressure, the Spectre is made to thrive in the wild, not just survive it.

WORKS WHERE OTHERS FAIL

Spectre uses high-efficiency solar cells that perform even in less-than-perfect sun. No perfect angle? No problem. You’ll still get a charge.

A SAFETY NET IN YOUR POCKET

Most of us don’t think about backup power—until we wish we had it. Poseidon Nano gives you confidence on the road, in the woods, or halfway through a chaotic day.

PACK-FRIENDLY. MISSION-READY.

Folds flat, weighs just over a pound, and fits easily in or on your gear. It’s solar that travels light 

PACK-FRIENDLY. MISSION-READY.

Folds flat, weighs just over a pound, and fits easily in or on your gear. It’s solar that travels light 

Customer Reviews

Based on 4 reviews
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Brad Craig
Works as advertised

I tried mine out at home as soon as I received it. Everything works as advertised. It charged my Poseidon Pro, iPhone, rechargeable hearing aids and lantern. I haven’t had it in the backcountry yet but will really put it to the test this fall! I too have had a Goal Zero for years and the Spectre seems to be a significant improvement on it

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Gregory

So I set it up as soon as I got it .works as it should. It charged up my battery bank fairly quick and then I used that to charge up my phone in a few things works great love it thanks!

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Corey

I love everything about it! I can hang it on my pack while walking and charge my Poseidon Pro. I can set it up with the supports that came with it, aim it at the sun, and charge my Poseidon Pro to keep all my electronic gizmos, providing me with the power I need every day. I have had a Goal Zero charger for eight years, and this Dark Energy Spectre 18W puts it to shame.

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michael

Did not work from the beginning. Indicator lights are inoperable. Poor customer service communication. Sent email with no response.