When it comes to solar panels, quality is important. You want a good-quality product with a strong production and performance warranty.
Efficiency is another important consideration, but experts caution that focusing too much on it can lead to overpaying for a solar system. Overall, you should find a balance between cost and other factors, like brand and aesthetics.
1. BioLite Solar Panel 100
The BioLite best solar panels 100 is one of the most powerful and versatile solar panels we tested. It features USB-A and USB-C ports, a hardwired DC charging port, and foldout legs that help you angle the panel directly at the sun. This panel also has the highest output when used in indirect sunlight, outproducing the second-best model we tested.
It also has the smallest folded size of any panel we tested at 20 inches by 14.5 inches and 1.5 inches thick. That makes it easy to stash in your trunk along with other camping gear for a weekend away.
It pairs perfectly with BioLite's BaseCharge power stations (sold separately) for a complete solar generator solution. And it has a water-resistant storage pouch to keep cables and ports dry in case of rain. A padded integrated handle also makes it comfortable to carry. You can even daisy-chain multiple panels together to create up to 400 W of energy drawing power.
2. Bluetti PV120
The PV120 is a monocrystalline solar panel that uses durable ETFE material for a lightweight, sturdy portable power source. It performed well in our direct sun charging speed tests and generates up to 53 watt-hours per hour when fully charged. It's one of the most expensive panels we tested, but it comes with a zippered carrying case that doubles as support to angle it at the sun.
The only caveat is that you'll need to purchase a separate solar cable for connecting to most of the power stations and batteries we tested, except for the EcoFlow 110, Jackery SolarSaga 100, and Renogy 100W Foldable, which all have MC4 universal solar connectors. You can find them online or at a local hardware store.
This panel is also the easiest to set up in terms of positioning, as it only folds once and has a pair of legs that fold out to support it at an optimal angle. It's also the lightest out of our top picks and packs down to about half the size of the BigBlue SolarPowa when folded.
3. BigBlue SolarPowa 100 ETFE
The BigBlue SolarPowa 100 ETFE is an easy-to-use panel that does a great job in indirect sun and has a few features to help you get the most out of your solar camping setup. It folds down and packs flat for storage, is a bit lighter than other panels we tested, and has a hardwired DC charging port so you can connect it directly to your power station at camp.
It also has a handle and a zipper pouch for easier carrying and packing, making it the easiest large solar panel to transport between campsites. It’s also one of the smallest in terms of packed size, giving you plenty of room to pack it along with your other gear.
It also performs well during our direct solar testing, although its wattage output fluctuates more than some other panels. It’s still a good option for those looking for a reliable solar panel that will work in any conditions.
4. SunPower Maxeon 7
SunPower, also known as Maxeon Solar Technologies outside of the US, is a leading manufacturer of PV modules. Their monocrystalline panels are primarily designed for homes and boast some of the highest efficiency ratings available today, reaching nearly 23%.
In addition, SunPower’s high-efficiency design helps these solar panels resist damage from harsh weather conditions like intense heat and heavy hail. This durability translates to a lower power temperature coefficient, allowing the panel to deliver a consistent power output over time.
Although these high-end solar panels sydney typically cost more than standard options, their superior quality and performance can offset the initial upfront investment. Additionally, a variety of financial incentives including rebates and net metering can further reduce these costs.
