Plug-In Batteries
Compare battery capacity, expansion blocks, AC input/output, solar input, zero-export support, TOU features, appliance-output limits, current pricing notes, warranty, and purchase links.
What they do
Plug-in solar batteries store daytime solar production or off-peak grid energy so it can be used later, usually during evening peak-rate hours. In small plug-in systems, the practical goal is self-consumption and bill savings, not whole-home backup.
The best batteries for this category are documented to work with a specific microinverter, meter/CT, and app ecosystem.
What to check
Compatibility: do not assume a battery works with any microinverter just because the connectors look similar.
Export behavior: verify whether the battery and meter can prevent unwanted grid export where required.
Backup limits: most plug-in batteries are not whole-home islanding systems without approved isolation equipment and electrical work.