Consumer Electronics, Gadgets & Accessories

Anker SOLIX V1 test: The smart wallbox for maximum charging efficiency

Electromobility is rapidly gaining momentum, and with it the demand for efficient charging solutions for the home is growing. The Anker SOLIX V1 is a promising candidate for the smart wallbox market. In our in-depth test, we investigate whether the intelligent charging station delivers what the manufacturer promises: up to 83% electricity cost savings, seamless integration with solar systems and intuitive operation. We used the wallbox for several weeks in everyday use and show you for whom the investment is really worthwhile.

Unboxing & first impression

The Anker SOLIX V1 is delivered in sturdy cardboard packaging that securely protects all components. The scope of delivery includes the wallbox itself, a wall bracket, an RFID card for access control and detailed operating instructions. Depending on the model selected, either a permanently installed 5-meter charging cable with type 2 plug is integrated or a type 2 socket is installed.

The first impression is consistently positive: the wallbox presents itself in a simple, modern design with high-quality workmanship. With dimensions of around 21 × 36 × 12 cm and a weight of around 4.5 kg (version without cable) or 5.6 kg (with cable), the device looks compact but robust. The material quality makes a high-quality impression – the plastic surface is matt and scratch-resistant, while the finish has no burrs or unclean transitions.

The innovative touch display on the front, which is equipped with IntelliGesture™ technology, is particularly eye-catching. This allows the charging process to be started, stopped or switched to fast charging with a swipe gesture – a feature that we will take a closer look at in the practical test.

Technical specifications

The Anker SOLIX V1 is available in different performance variants to suit different requirements. Here is an overview of the most important technical data:

Specification Model 7.4 kW Model 11 kW Model 22 kW
Nominal power 7.4 kW 11 kW 22 kW
Nominal voltage 230V (1P+N+PE) 400V (3P+N+PE) 400V (3P+N+PE)
Nominal current 32A 16A 32A
Phases Single-phase Three-phase Three-phase
Charging time (60 kWh battery) approx. 8 hours approx. 6 hours approx. 3 hours
Range per hour approx. 40-50 km approx. 60-70 km approx. 120 km

All models have the following features in common:

  • Vehicle connection: Type 2 plug (permanently installed or as a socket)
  • Communication: WLAN, Ethernet/LAN, Bluetooth, RS485
  • Protocol: OCPP 1.6J (open standard)
  • Authentication: RFID, app, Bluetooth
  • Protection class: IP65 (protected against dust and water jets)
  • Impact resistance class: IK10 (highest level)
  • Operating temperature: -30°C to +50°C
  • Dimensions: approx. 21 × 36 × 12 cm
  • Weight: 4.5 kg (without cable) / 5.6 kg (with cable)

Installation & commissioning

The Anker SOLIX V1 should always be installed by a qualified electrician. Anker offers an installation service via its website; alternatively, you can also commission a trusted electrician. The installation itself is straightforward and follows a clear procedure:

  1. Select a location for the wallbox (ideally at chest height)
  2. Mark and drill holes using the enclosed drilling template
  3. Mount the wall bracket
  4. Select cable entry (bottom, rear or top)
  5. Make the electrical connection (hard wiring or CEE plug)
  6. Place the wallbox on the wall bracket and secure it
  7. Optional: Mount the cable holder
We simply connected the wallbox to the Anker Solix Powerdock

Once the hardware has been installed, it is set up using the Anker app. This automatically recognizes the wallbox and guides you through the setup process. The Wi-Fi connection, firmware updates and basic settings are configured. Particularly practical: You can choose between auto-start, schedule and RFID card authentication for the access settings.

Installation went smoothly in our test. It took around 90 minutes from installation to the first charge, with the majority of the time required for professional electrical installation. The app setup itself only took around 10 minutes and was easy to understand, even for less technically experienced users.

Performance in the practical test

For our test, we used the 11 kW version without a built-in cable and tested it with various electric vehicles. The wallbox consistently delivered the promised charging power and proved to be reliable even during longer charging processes.

Charging speed

The measured charging speeds corresponded to the manufacturer’s specifications. We were able to determine the following values for a test vehicle with a 77.4 kWh battery:

  • Charging time from 20% to 80%: approx. 4.5 hours
  • Average charging power: 10.8 kW
  • Range gained per hour: approx. 65 km

The efficiency of the wallbox is particularly impressive. With an efficiency of over 95%, very little energy is lost during the charging process – a top value in this price range.

Intelligent charging with Anker Intelligence™

A key feature of the SOLIX V1 is intelligent charging control. In conjunction with a smart meter (available separately), the wallbox continuously analyzes power consumption and solar production. We examined the following scenarios in our test:

Scenario 1: Wallbox only

Even without a solar system, the SOLIX V1 offers advantages thanks to time-controlled charging. With a dynamic electricity tariff, savings of around 25% can be achieved compared to unscheduled charging processes, as the wallbox automatically charges during the most favorable hours.

Scenario 2: With solar system

In combination with a solar system, the savings increased significantly. The wallbox prioritized solar power and only supplemented with grid power when needed.

The savings of up to 58% (without storage) and 83% (with storage) advertised by Anker appear quite realistic according to our tests, but depend heavily on individual factors such as the size of the solar system, driving profile and electricity tariff.

Functions & operation

IntelliGesture™ touch control

The innovative gesture control of the SOLIX V1 works surprisingly well in everyday use. A simple swipe gesture to the right starts the charging process, a swipe gesture to the left stops it. Particularly practical: swiping upwards activates fast charging mode. The gestures are reliably recognized and offer an intuitive alternative to app control.

Anker app

The Anker app impresses with its clear design and wide range of functions:

  • Real-time monitoring of the charging process
  • Detailed statistics on energy consumption and costs
  • Individual time schedules for charging
  • Setting the maximum charging power (6A to 32A)
  • Integration of electricity tariffs for cost calculations
  • Management of RFID cards for access
  • Firmware updates

In our test, the app was stable and responded quickly. The connection to the wallbox via Wi-Fi was reliable, and the Bluetooth connection also worked smoothly as a backup in the event of a Wi-Fi failure.

Operating modes

The SOLIX V1 offers various operating modes that can be flexibly adapted to different requirements:

Auto-start

The charging process starts automatically as soon as the vehicle is connected – ideal for uncomplicated use.

Schedule charging

Charging processes can be scheduled for specific time slots, for example for low night-time electricity tariffs.

Solar mode

The wallbox charges exclusively or primarily with solar power and thus maximizes the use of self-generated energy.

Particularly impressive is the intelligent charging mode, in which the Anker Intelligence™ automatically determines the optimum charging time based on solar production, electricity prices and driving habits. In our test, this optimization worked surprisingly well and quickly adapted to our usage habits.

Integration into the energy system

A particular advantage of the SOLIX V1 is its seamless integration into existing or planned energy systems. We tested various scenarios:

Standalone operation

Even without other Anker products, the wallbox works perfectly and already offers advantages over conventional charging stations thanks to its intelligent control system.

With Anker SOLIX Solarbank

In combination with the Anker SOLIX Solarbank Powerdock Multisystem or the X1 home storage system, the SOLIX V1 unfolds its full potential. The system recognizes excess solar energy and directs it specifically to charge the electric vehicle. In our test, this integration worked smoothly – the components communicated reliably with each other and automatically optimized the energy flows.

Compatibility with third-party systems

Thanks to the open OCPP 1.6J protocol, the SOLIX V1 can also be integrated into many third-party systems. We successfully coupled the wallbox with a Shelly Pro 3EM smart meter, which enabled basic load control. However, the full functionality only unfolds in the Anker ecosystem.

Prices & availability

The Anker SOLIX V1 is available in six variants, which differ in terms of performance and features. Anker is currently offering a discount on all models:

Model Regular price (RRP) Special offer price
7.4 kW without cable 619 € 399,00 €
7.4 kW with cable 689 € 449,00 €
11 kW without cable 719 € 479,00 €
11 kW with cable 789 € 529,00 €
22 kW without cable 749 € 519,00 €
22 kW with cable 819 € 549,00 €

Our tip: The 11 kW variant is the best choice for most households with a standard connection. It offers a good compromise between charging speed and cost. The version with cable is somewhat more expensive, so it may be worthwhile simply buying an additional cable. This also gives you more flexibility.

Conclusion: For whom is the Anker SOLIX V1 worthwhile?

The Anker SOLIX V1 is a high-quality wallbox that impresses with its intelligent functions, robust workmanship and future-proof technology. Although the price is higher compared to simple charging stations, the additional costs are amortized by the potential savings in electricity costs.

The SOLIX V1 is particularly recommended for:

  • Owners of photovoltaic systems who want to make optimum use of their self-generated electricity to charge their e-car
  • Users of dynamic electricity tariffs who want to benefit from intelligent charging control
  • Tech-savvy users who value smart functions and detailed evaluations
  • Customers who already use other Anker SOLIX products or are planning to invest in this ecosystem

The investment makes less sense for users who only charge occasionally or have no opportunity to benefit from the smart functions. A simpler wallbox might be sufficient here.

In our test, the Anker SOLIX V1 impressed across the board and proved to be a reliable, intelligent charging partner for everyday use. The innovative gesture control, the sophisticated app and the seamless integration into existing energy systems clearly set the wallbox apart from the competition. With the current discount, the SOLIX V1 also offers an attractive price-performance ratio.

PRO

  • Intelligent charging control with real AI optimization
  • Innovative gesture control for easy operation
  • High build quality and robust design (IP65, IK10)
  • Comprehensive app with detailed statistics
  • Flexible operating modes for different requirements
  • Seamless integration into the Anker SOLIX ecosystem
  • Open OCPP 1.6J protocol for future-proofing
  • Wide operating temperature range (-30°C to +50°C)
  • High compatibility (99.9% of all e-vehicles)
CONTRA

  • Higher price compared to simple wallboxes
  • Full functionality only with additional smart meter
  • Maximum savings only in the complete Anker ecosystem
  • No integrated residual current circuit breaker (separate installation required)
  • No MID-certified electricity meter for billing purposes

Anchor SOLIX V1

Processing & design
Range of functions
Ease of use
App & connectivity
Price-performance ratio

91/100

The Anker SOLIX V1 is a smart wallbox that really comes into its own when combined with a solar system. Intelligent charging control, solid workmanship and seamless integration into the Anker ecosystem justify the higher price compared to simpler models - provided you really make use of the smart functions. If you only charge occasionally, you are better off with a cheaper solution.

Simon Lüthje

I am co-founder of this blog and am very interested in everything that has to do with technology, but I also like to play games. I was born in Hamburg, but now I live in Bad Segeberg.

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