![]() I tested the bestselling Victron SmartSolar MPPT model on Amazon at the time of my research, which happened to be the 100/30 model (100V PV voltage limit, 30A charge current rating).īut Victron has a huge product lineup and sells SmartSolar controllers with a wide range of PV voltages (75-250V) and current ratings (10-100A). After finding the maximum power point, the Victron output a max of 146 watts according to my battery monitor. It was also the smallest and lightest controller I tested, if that’s an important factor in your system. Otherwise, the build quality of the Victron felt solid. The screws felt high quality, but the terminals themselves were shallow and a little too close together for my taste. The Victron’s wire terminals are passable, but nothing to write home about. The Renogy Rover and EPEver Tracer AN tied for last with an output of 142 watts. The Victron placed first in my power output test with a max output of 146 watts. panel temperature, fluctuations in solar irradiance), but it was nice to see a first place finish from a top-of-the-line MPPT. I wouldn’t put too much stock in these results because of the variables I couldn’t control (e.g. ![]() I also performed a power output test and the Victron placed first - by a hair. Victron makes all sorts of accessories - sensors and shunts and the like - that can pair with the app as well and communicate with your controller to customize and optimize your system. The Victron has lots of battery presets that you can use right out of the box, including one for lithium iron phosphate batteries.Īnd that’s just the tip of the iceberg. You can use one of the many battery presets or, for advanced users, easily create and save custom charging profiles. But, once you learn your way around it, it can be quite powerful. It can be a little overwhelming at first. The VictronConnect app has a lot of features. That helps justify the Victron’s price a bit. All the other charge controllers in this review make you buy a $30-40 Bluetooth module for that feature. The Victron was the only MPPT I tested with Bluetooth built in. The VictronConnect app is free and lets you monitor and edit your system settings from your phone. Once the Victron is installed, you can use the free VictronConnect mobile app to monitor and customize your system. I connected the Victron BMV-712 Battery Monitor to my battery to monitor the peak power output in watts of each charge controller.īluetooth is built in to all the models in the Victron SmartSolar MPPT product line. Performing a power output test with the Victron. It’s about as “plug and play” as it gets. Out of the box, I found the Victron to have the most features and be the easiest to use. Pros: Easy to use, built-in Bluetooth, robust mobile app, custom charging profilesĬons: Expensive, mediocre wire terminals, no screenīest for: Those looking for the best MPPT charge controller who don’t mind paying top dollar advanced users who want the most features and customizability Reviewįor the sake of everyone’s wallets, I almost hoped the Victron wouldn’t be my favorite. LiFePO4, sealed (AGM), gel, flooded, custom So if you see one on this list you like, but it isn’t compatible with your system, just search for the other available models and you’ll probably find one that is. Note: Most of the charge controllers I tested offer models with different charge current ratings, max PV voltages, and/or compatible battery voltages. Or keep reading for my full MPPT charge controller reviews. Honorable Mention: EPEver Tracer 4215BN.Top Pick: Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/30.Quick Recommendations: Best MPPT Solar Charge Controllers I also researched their specs and spent time using their mobile apps to monitor my system and create custom charging profiles.īased on all that, here are my reviews and recommendations. ![]() I built a custom testing setup and tested their ease of use, build quality, and power output. I also bought all of them with my own money. I tested all the MPPT charge controllers in this review. I spent weeks testing 5 of the best MPPT solar charge controllers on the market.
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