Varta VS200
(2 reviews)
Foldable, IP67-rated and rated at 22.6% efficiency, the Varta VS200 solar panel delivers 200W to recharge the VP500 power station outdoors.
Characteristics
- Power: 200W (monocrystalline cells)
- Efficiency: 22.6% rated
- Ingress protection: IP67 (rain, dust, splashes)
- Weight: 8.5kg (foldable, adjustable stand)
- 22.6% efficiency, IP67 rated, compatible with the VP500
Detailed overview: Varta VS200 foldable solar panel
The VS200 is the solar panel Varta designed to accompany its VP500 power station, both launched together in June 2025 as part of the brand's new "Mobile Power Solutions" range. It delivers up to 200W of power thanks to monocrystalline solar cells rated above 22.6% conversion efficiency, a solid figure for a foldable panel of this format.
Its design focuses on ease of use: the panel unfolds in seconds, and a built-in adjustable stand lets you angle it towards the sun to optimise output throughout the day. Its surface is coated with ETFE, more resistant to scratches and UV than a simple plastic film, and the whole unit carries an IP67 rating, withstanding rain, splashes and dust.
On connectivity, the VS200 uses a standard MC4 output, supplied with an MC4 to DC(XT60) cable designed to plug directly into the VP500's solar input. This direct compatibility saves hunting for an adapter, unlike some third-party panels. The panel remains usable with other devices or solar controllers accepting an MC4 input, within their input voltage range.
Folded, the VS200 weighs 8.5kg, a weight consistent with its capture surface and stated durability. It's carried via a built-in handle, better suited to a car boot than a hiking backpack. Paired with the VP500, Varta states a charging time of around 2 hours 15 minutes under optimal sunlight conditions, a figure that varies depending on actual weather. For VP500 owners looking to gain autonomy away from the mains, the VS200 is the natural companion, though it can just as well be paired with other MC4-compatible stations. The box includes the panel itself, the connection cable and a short manual, so there's nothing extra to buy before putting it to work.
Full specifications
Detailed characteristics
Panel
| Peak power?Rated panel power in full sun (STC conditions). | 200 W |
|---|---|
| Cell technology?Cell type; monocrystalline offers the best efficiency, flexible CIGS tolerates shading better. | Monocrystalline |
| Conversion efficiency?Share of solar energy converted to electricity; higher means a more compact panel for the same power. | 22.6 % |
| Panel type?Foldable (portable), rigid framed (fixed install) or flexible (curved surfaces). | Foldable |
| Bifacial?Also captures reflected light on its rear side, for extra output. | No |
| Number of folds?Number of foldable segments. | 4 |
Electrical specifications
| Voltage at max power (Vmp)?Voltage at the maximum power point. | 20.52 V |
|---|---|
| Current at max power (Imp)?Current at the maximum power point. | 9.74 A |
Outputs and connectors
| Output connectors?Output socket type(s) (MC4, XT60, Anderson, DC, USB…); determines compatibility with your station. | MC4 |
|---|
Durability and format
| Ingress protection?Water and dust resistance (IP rating). | IP67 |
|---|---|
| Adjustable kickstand?Kickstand or support to angle the panel toward the sun. | Yes |
| Weight?Weight of the panel. | 8.5 kg |
Warranty
| Warranty?Length of the manufacturer's warranty. | 2 years |
|---|
User manual / Instructions for use (PDF)
☀ How fast does this panel recharge a power station?
The Varta VS200 panel (200 W) recharges a Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 (1070 Wh) in ~7h40 or an EcoFlow Delta 2 Max (2048 Wh) in ~15h, in full sun.
| Compact / mid | Recharge |
|---|---|
| EcoFlow Trail 200 DC (192 Wh) | ~1h20 |
| EcoFlow River 2 (256 Wh) | ~1h50 |
| EcoFlow River 2 Max (512 Wh) | ~3h40 |
| Growatt Vita 550 (538 Wh) | ~3h50 |
| High capacity | Recharge |
|---|---|
| Bluetti AC200L (2048 Wh) | ~15h |
| Allpowers R3500 V2 (2880 Wh) | ~21h |
| Allpowers R4000 (3456 Wh) | ~25h |
| Fossibot F3600 Pro (3840 Wh) | ~27h |
Estimate in full sun (ideal conditions). In practice, count on 3 to 5 hours of truly useful sunlight per day, so a full recharge may span several days depending on weather and orientation.
Our tester's review: Julien De Jurquet
We tested the VS200 alongside the VP500, and the pairing works well: the supplied MC4 to DC(XT60) cable plugs straight in, no adapter needed. Once unfolded and well angled thanks to the adjustable stand, output climbs quickly in good weather. The ETFE coating and IP67 rating are reassuring, a surprise shower isn't a concern. One practical downside: at 8.5kg and once unfolded, it stays bulky to carry and pack away, like most 200W panels of this format. We also missed a manufacturer figure for open-circuit voltage, useful for checking compatibility with stations other than the VP500. For anyone who already owns a VP500, it's a logical, well-matched companion.
Frequently asked questions: Varta VS200 foldable solar panel
Yes, via its standard MC4 connector. The supplied cable (MC4 to DC(XT60)) is matched to the VP500, but the panel can power any device or solar controller accepting an MC4 input within its voltage range.
Yes, its IP67 rating protects it against rain, splashes and dust. The ETFE coating also shields it from scratches and UV exposure.
Under optimal sunlight conditions, the VS200 can charge the VP500 in around 2 hours 15 minutes. This time varies considerably with weather, season and panel orientation.
Varta rates it above 22.6% conversion efficiency thanks to monocrystalline cells, a solid figure for a foldable portable panel at this price point.
It's foldable and carries via its built-in handle, but remains a genuine 200W panel: expect around 8.5kg folded, better suited to the boot of a car than a backpack.
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Published on 04/09/2026