I definitely got the battery packs confused since the hard-wired pack is shown outside the bag in the images provided by the manufacturer of the Helius, while the battery pack that is actually removable is shown to be clipped onto the bag by the manufacturer of the Voltaic.

Thanks for helping me get this straightened out in my head!

Also, I’m glad to hear that it would take some serious impact to damage the Voltaic’s solar cells. And that they could be replaced should this happen.

Thanks again for the thorough review of this great new product!

To clarify (and hopefully now stated more clearly in my review), the Voltaic has the removable silver-colored battery, the Helius is hard-wired.

Yes, thanks for catching my typo, it’s a $120 difference.

As to the solar panels, the Voltaic has three ridged panels, and the Helius 1 somewhat flexible panel. While I suspect you could crack the Voltaic’s panels, I think it would take a VERY strong blow from a very hard object. So dropping it on the ground from 3 feet, shouldn’t do anything but perhaps scuff it up a bit. And if it does ever break, you can buy a replacement.

Hope this helps. Thanks!

However, could you review what you wrote and make some corrections. I noticed a few discrepancies…

First, from what I can gather, the Voltaic has the hard-wired battery, not the Helius. (which sucks because other than that, I love what the Voltaic provides)

Second, the price difference is about $120 rather than $1020. (I know most people would figure this out on their own, but if someone is simply skimming it could sway their purchase very quickly).

Sorry for the criticism, but I think that people should take a hard look at buying something like this and I just want to help you give them the facts they can use to make a smart purchase.

Can you tell me if you feel that the Voltaic’s solar cells might be susceptible to breakage if treated moderately roughly? That’s one of my biggest concerns at this point.

I read your blog almost every day and have gotten to attend some wonderful events I’d never have heard of if not for your diligence.

Keep up the great work!