Car Power Inverter 400W with 2 AC Outlets & 2 USB Ports - Compact

In this review the Tripp Lite PV400USB proves to be a practical, no-frills power inverter for people who need reliable 120V AC and USB charging on the road. The bottom line: it is best for drivers, RVers and boat owners who want a compact inverter that plugs into a 12V cigarette lighter or connects directly to a battery and can run laptops, charge phones and power low-wattage devices without fuss. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of two AC outlets plus a 2.1A and 1.0A USB port in an ultra-compact housing that includes built-in safety features.

Key Features

• 400W continuous power: Provides enough AC output to run laptops, small TVs and other low-power devices while traveling.
• Dual AC outlets: Lets you power two standard 120V devices at once without additional adapters.
• Two USB ports: A 2.1A and a 1.0A USB port give fast charging for phones and tablets alongside AC charging for larger gear.
• Flexible connections: Use the 3 ft DC cord with cigarette lighter plug for quick setup or connect battery cables for higher-current needs.
• Built-in protection: Includes a 40A fuse and circuitry that guards against overheating, short circuits, under/over voltage and overloads.
• Compact, durable design: Rugged housing and an integrated cooling fan make it suitable for regular travel and mobile use.

Who It's For

The PV400USB is ideal for people who need portable AC power during road trips, camping, or while working from a vehicle; it handles laptops, phone charging, small lights and media players with ease. Its easy cigarette lighter hookup makes it convenient for occasional use by drivers who do not want to hardwire an inverter.

Those who should look elsewhere include users who need sustained high-wattage power for large appliances or heavy-duty power tools, and anyone requiring pure sine wave output for sensitive audio/video equipment; this unit is a durable, budget-friendly modified-sine inverter intended for low- to moderate-load devices.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact size and straightforward setup make it simple to use in cars, trucks and RVs.
• Multiple outputs (two AC outlets plus two USB ports) cover a wide range of devices simultaneously.
• Safety features and a 40A fuse protect connected equipment and vehicle battery.
• Good build quality and perceived value for the price.

Cons

• Fan noise is reported variably by users, so it can be noticeable under load in quiet environments.
• Not suited for high-wattage or sensitive equipment that requires pure sine wave output.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The PV400USB is a sensible, value-oriented inverter for travelers, RVers and anyone who needs dependable AC and USB charging from a vehicle. Its combination of dual AC outlets, two USB ports and built-in protections makes it a versatile companion for low- to moderate-power devices, and the compact design keeps it easy to store. For those not needing high-wattage or pure sine output, it represents good value and reliable everyday performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this inverter run a laptop?
Yes; the 400W continuous output is sufficient for most laptops and chargers used while traveling.

How do I connect it to my vehicle?
Plug the DC jack into the 12V cigarette lighter socket for quick use, or attach the included battery cables directly to the battery (red to red, black to black) for higher current.

Is it safe to leave plugged in?
It includes a 40A fuse and protection against overheating, over/under voltage and short circuits, but avoid leaving it unattended for extended periods and monitor battery charge.