Yeti 700 Open Box Review: Is a Refurbished Power Station Worth It?

Shopping for a portable power station often brings you to a crossroads: pay full price for a brand-new unit or save some cash on an open box or refurbished model. The Yeti 700, a mid-size power station from Goal Zero, frequently appears in open box listings, tempting budget-conscious campers and emergency preppers alike. But is an open box Yeti 700 worth it? In this review, we'll dive into what you can expect from a refurbished unit, how it performs, and whether the savings justify any potential trade-offs.

We've spent time testing the Yeti 700 in real-world scenarios—from weekend camping trips to home backup during short outages. We'll share our honest assessment of its condition, performance, and overall value, so you can make an informed decision before clicking 'add to cart.'

What Does 'Open Box' Mean for the Yeti 700?

Open box items are typically products that were returned to the retailer, often because the original buyer changed their mind or received a duplicate. They may have been lightly used, but they are usually inspected, tested, and restored to like-new condition. For the Yeti 700, this means you could get a power station with minor cosmetic scuffs but fully functional internals.

It's important to note that open box units often come with a shorter warranty than brand-new models. While Goal Zero typically offers a 1-year warranty on new products, refurbished units might only include a 90-day warranty. Always check the specific listing details to understand what's covered.

• Inspect the listing photos and read the condition notes carefully.
• Check the warranty terms—some open box items still carry the original 1-year warranty.
• Look for units that have been tested and certified by the retailer.

Yeti 700 Performance: Does It Deliver?

The Yeti 700 packs a 630Wh lithium-ion battery and a 300W inverter (600W surge). It's capable of powering small appliances, charging laptops, and running CPAP machines overnight. In our tests, a fully charged Yeti 700 kept a mini fridge running for about 6 hours and charged a smartphone over 20 times. The 300W output is sufficient for most camping needs, but it won't run high-draw devices like hair dryers or electric kettles.

When it comes to open box units, performance is generally identical to new ones, provided the battery hasn't been degraded. Most open box Yeti 700s have only been used a handful of times, so battery health is usually excellent. We recommend performing a full charge and discharge cycle upon receipt to assess the battery's condition.

• Test the battery capacity with a known load to ensure it meets expectations.
• Check all ports (AC, USB, 12V) for proper function.
• Listen for any unusual fan noise or rattling during operation.

Condition and Cosmetics: What to Expect

Open box units may show signs of handling—small scratches, scuffs, or fingerprints on the casing. These are purely cosmetic and don't affect performance. In our experience, most open box Yeti 700s arrive in excellent condition, with only minor blemishes that are easily overlooked once you're out in the wild.

However, it's not uncommon to receive a unit with a slightly dented corner or a scratched display. If cosmetic imperfections bother you, consider purchasing a protective case or simply embrace the 'patina' of a well-loved power station. The key is to focus on functionality over looks.

• Document any damage with photos immediately upon arrival.
• Contact customer support if the condition is worse than described.
• Consider adding a silicone case for extra protection.

Warranty and Support: What's Covered?

As mentioned, open box items often come with a reduced warranty. This is the biggest trade-off when buying refurbished. While a 90-day warranty might be enough to uncover any initial defects, it doesn't provide the long-term peace of mind of a full-year warranty. If you plan to use the Yeti 700 frequently or rely on it for emergency backup, the extended warranty might be worth the extra cost of a new unit.

That said, Goal Zero's customer support is generally responsive, and many open box units are still covered under the original warranty if the transfer is allowed. Always confirm the warranty status before purchasing.

• Ask the seller for the unit's serial number to check warranty status.
• Read reviews of the seller's return policy.
• Consider purchasing an extended warranty if available.

Alternatives to the Yeti 700 Open Box

If you're not sold on the Yeti 700 open box, there are other options in the mid-size power station category. For instance, the Yeti 200X (OPEN BOX) offers a smaller footprint and lower price point, making it a great choice for minimalists. On the other hand, if you need more power, you might look at larger units like the 12 kWh Haven Home Backup, which is designed for whole-home backup.

Additionally, consider portable solar panels to pair with your power station for off-grid recharging. The BioLite SolarHome Wall Charger is a compact option for keeping your devices topped up, while the Outrider Charging Dock can streamline your setup. Each of these accessories can enhance your overall experience, regardless of which power station you choose.

• Compare the Yeti 700 to the Yeti 200X for smaller power needs.
• For whole-home backup, the 12 kWh Haven Home Backup is a robust alternative.
• Pair your power station with a solar panel for sustainable recharging.

So, is an open box Yeti 700 worth it? If you're comfortable with a slightly shorter warranty and don't mind minor cosmetic imperfections, the savings can be significant. The Yeti 700's performance is solid, and most open box units are in great condition. Just be sure to do your due diligence—check the warranty, inspect the unit upon arrival, and test it thoroughly. For budget-conscious adventurers, an open box Yeti 700 is a smart choice. Explore our selection of refurbished power stations to find the perfect fit for your next adventure.