Skip to content
Search
We independently pick everything we recommend. We earn a commission when you buy through our links, at no extra cost to you. Learn more ›

Controllers and Inverters

MPPT and PWM charge controllers, power inverters, inverter chargers and DC to DC chargers compared by amps, watts, voltage input limits and stated protections.

What to compare in controllers and inverters

This section covers the electronics between panel, battery and load. The child pages divide it by function, so decide which job you have first.

  • System voltage: Pick 12V, 24V or 48V once and match every part to it, because most of these devices accept only one or two.
  • Input limits: Controllers list a maximum PV voltage; compare it with your panels' open-circuit voltage and leave margin.
  • Output ratings: Inverters give continuous and surge watts separately. Compare each against your largest loads rather than the total.
  • Chemistry support: Check which battery types each part lists, especially LiFePO4 profiles.
  • Fuses and protection: Parts here handle high current, so fuse ratings on the listing matter. Wiring into a house is for a licensed electrician.

Before browsing, write down your system voltage, battery chemistry and the maximum panel voltage. Those three facts decide which of the pages below is relevant and which listings can be ruled out right away. If a listing leaves any of those figures unstated, treat the part as unconfirmed and move on to one that prints them clearly.

Guides to read first