BLUETTI Charger 2 Review 1200W Alternator & Solar Charging
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The BLUETTI Charger 2 is an all-new DC-DC alternator charger designed to push the boundaries of vanlife, RV, and off‑grid power systems. In this review, I break down the capabilities, new features, and important considerations to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your setup. It offers several advanced capabilities, including up to 1,200W output and the ability to reverse-charge your vehicle's starter battery. However, taking full advantage of these features requires compatible hardware and a clear understanding of the system’s limitations.
Charger 2 is currently available for $349 $599 and is scheduled to increase to $499 on February 5th at 6PM PST.
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More photos and setup instructions below.
Overview
- Automatic Charging: Automatically controls charging using intelligent voltage detection or an optional ignition wire so it only operates when the vehicle is running.
- Multifunctional: In addition to charging, when connected to a compatible BLUETTI power station it also offers reverse charging and battery maintenance for the vehicle's battery.
- Broad Compatibility: Basic charging and solar also work with many third‑party models from brands like EcoFlow and Jackery. This flexibility makes it a versatile option for mixed‑brand power setups.
- Smart App Control: Monitor energy flow and adjust charging settings in real time via the BLUETTI app.
- Backwards Compatible Wiring: Designed as a true drop‑in upgrade for Charger 1 users. Existing wiring can stay in place, which makes upgrading fast, clean, and hassle‑free.
- Configurable Charging Power: You can manually throttle the wattage to a desired level, making it compatible with smaller alternators or specific batteries.
What's New
- Increase in Charging Power: Delivers a significantly higher charging rate compared to the previous generation, supporting up to 800W of input from the alternator (at 12V or 24V) for a combined total charging power of up to 1,200W maximum when paired with solar and using power station port.
- Bidirectional Port: A bidirectional port (BAT) designed for connecting a BLUETTI power station with an expansion port (such as AC200MAX or AC200L) or a BLUETTI expansion battery (such as B230 or B300).
- Solar Input: Now features a dedicated 600W solar input (PV) with a voltage range of 13-50V. This allows you to charge your power station from solar panels while stationary or supplement the alternator while driving.
- DC Hub Port: Expand into a complete DC power distribution center by adding the DC Hub. This provides nine extra DC output ports, including a 50A Anderson port, cigarette lighter, USB-C PD, and USB-A. Requires a BLUETTI device connected to the bidirectional port to be active when the vehicle is off.
- Two Power Stations: Supports charging two power stations simultaneously: one through the power station port (CHG) and the other through the bidirectional port (BAT).
- Ignition‑Triggered Auto Start: Can be configured to automatically power on when the vehicle's ignition is engaged via a built-in ignition wire (D+) to the vehicle's ACC/IGN fuse box. This is a major improvement, especially for vehicles with smart alternators, as it ensures the charger only draws power when the engine is running.
Considerations
- Power Station Compatibility: Third-party power stations and BLUETTI models without a compatible expansion port are restricted to the one-way power station port. These units can be charged but do not support reverse charging features or the ability to power the DC Hub.
- Lower Bidirectional Charge: Bidirectional port only supports 1,000W, whereas the power station port supports 1,200W.
- Jump‑Start Limitation: Charger 2 cannot be used to jump‑start a vehicle. Its reverse‑charge output is limited to 800W. While this is suitable for recharging a starter battery, it is far below the surge current required for engine starting. For instant jump-starting, consider the NOCO Boost GB40 for standard vehicles or the NOCO Boost GB70 for larger trucks.
- Accessories Unavailable: No accessories are available yet, and the D+ and FridgePower cables are not expected until June 2026.
- DC Hub Limitation: This port only provides power when the vehicle is running or when a compatible BLUETTI device is connected to the bidirectional port. It does not function with solar input alone or while the vehicle is off without a device connected to the bidirectional port.
- D+ Cable Not Included: If your vehicle uses a smart alternator (common on most models built after 2015), you’ll likely want the optional D+ ignition cable. Since it’s not included in the box, plan to purchase one separately for more reliable automatic-start behavior.
- Very Large Fuse: The included fuse is physically huge and may not fit in recessed battery compartments. To resolve this, you can use a separate extension cable with a fuse block and a 75A-rated fuse.
- Limited Ingress Protection: With an IP20 rating, the Charger 2 offers no protection against water and minimal protection against dust. Keep this in mind if you plan to install it in dusty environments.
Detailed Comparison
BLUETTI Charger 2 vs Charger 1 comparison table:
| Model | Charger 2 | Charger 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Photo |  |  |
| Links | ||
| Price | $349 | $299 |
| Alternator Input | 800W | 560W |
| Solar Input | 13-50V⎓20A, 600W | -- |
| Power Station Port | 1,200W | 560W |
| Bidirectional Port | 1,000W 1 | -- |
| DC Hub Port | 700W 2 | -- |
| Max Reverse Charge | 800W 1 | -- |
| Battery Maintenance | 100W 1 | -- |
| Size | 10.4 × 6.7 × 2.7 in (265 × 169 × 70 mm) | 5.7 × 4.3 × 2.4 in (145 × 110 × 60 mm) |
1. Requires compatible BLUETTI product. 2. Requires BLUETTI DC Hub. Also requires a BLUETTI device connected to the bidirectional port to be active when vehicle is off.
Full Specifications
How to Install
Installing Charger 2 isn't difficult, but does require vehicle battery access, making the DC electrical connections, thoughtful cable routing, and a few basic tools.
Need an install guide for a Ford Transit?
Install Guide: Ford Transit
Ford Transit + BLUETTI Alternator Chargers
Accessories
It’s disappointing that no accessories are currently available for purchase. I am in direct communication with BLUETTI for estimated availability dates and will update this section as new information becomes available. So far, they have indicated that the D+ and FridgePower cables are not expected until June 2026. Charger 2 was announced and made available to order at CES, and it feels like the priority was having it ready for the show rather than ensuring the accessories were in place.
DC Hub (special version)700W Total DC Power
Ports: USB-C, USB-A, DC5521, Cigarette Lighter, and Anderson Port
Price: $299
Bidirectional Compatibility
What power stations and batteries support the bidirectional port?
- Using Included Cable (P090D):
- Using Optional Accessories:
More Accessories Coming Soon
Verdict
The BLUETTI Charger 2 is a high-speed DC-DC alternator charger that delivers up to 1,200W of combined vehicle and solar input. It supports bidirectional charging to maintain both connected power stations and the vehicle's starter battery, while an integrated DC Hub port offers comprehensive DC power distribution for off-grid systems.
Some features rely on specific hardware and come with system limitations that are important to keep in mind. Overall, it’s a capable and competitive alternator‑charger option, with real‑world performance that depends on the equipment you pair it with.
The Bottom Line: If you are already in the BLUETTI ecosystem and want the fastest charge times, this is a strong upgrade to consider.
Not sure it’s the best fit? My alternator charger guide covers all the popular brands.
This page will be updated as new information becomes available.
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