The 15 Best Solar Panels in 2024
Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative energy source. They offer a clean and renewable source of energy that can be used to reduce electricity bills, reduce environmental impact, and even earn some extra money. With advances in solar panel technology, solar panels are becoming more and more efficient and cost effective.
With the growing awareness of the environment and the potential of solar energy, it can be overwhelming to determine which type of solar panel is best for you. We will provide you with all the information you need to know about solar panels.
We did all the research for you and handpicked recommendations of the best solar panels in 2024.
We will look at the key features that make each solar panel model unique, and compare them to other models on the market. This will help you to make an informed decision about which solar panel is best for your individual needs.
We will also discuss the various benefits of solar panels, such as financial savings and environmental protection. Additionally, we will provide a guide to help you with the installation of your solar panels.
Finding the Best Solar Panels - Buying Guide
Different sizes, usage, efficiency, are just some of the characteristics that you will be looking into when buying solar panels. Also, it is very important to know what you are going to use the panels for.
Whether it is going to be portable or residential panels. If you read our reviews, there is no doubt you will find the best fit for your needs.
Pros and Cons of Solar Panels
1. Renewable and sustainable energy.
2. Solar panels are virtually maintenance-free.
3. Can be used in remote and rural areas with no access to the conventional grid.
4. Clean, non-polluting source of energy.
5. Solar power systems are highly efficient and require minimal space.
6. Can be used to generate electricity, heat water, and even power vehicles.
7. Can help reduce electricity bills and save money.
8. Reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
9. Can be used to power entire homes and buildings.
10. Can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
1. Require a large upfront investment.
2. Solar panels are not very efficient in low-light conditions.
3. Solar panels can be visually unappealing to some people.
4. Solar panels can be unreliable in cloudy or shady conditions.
5. Solar panels require regular maintenance.
6. Solar panels can be damaged by extreme weather conditions.
7. Solar panels can be difficult to install in some locations.
8. Solar panels can be expensive to replace or repair.
9. Solar panels can be difficult to resell.
Different Types of Solar Panels
| Solar panel type | About | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monocrystalline | Their main advantage when compared to others is that they have higher efficiency than the others. These types of panels are considered “premium” solar products. | Space-efficient, highest efficiency, perform better in low level of sunlight | Level of performance goes down as the temperature grows, most expensive |
| Polycrystalline | Polycrystalline panels are often called multi-crystalline or many-crystalline which indicates the presence of more than only one crystal. This specific type of panels offers decent efficiency for a lower amount of money and that is why they are recommended for most projects. | Less waste produced in the making process, cheaper than monocrystalline | Lower efficiency rate, not space efficient, usually shorter lifespan |
| Thin-film | Thin-film solar panels are a type of panels that are made out of, obviously, thin films of semiconductors. Those films are frequently 20 times thinner than the others and that makes them very lightweight as well as flexible. | Very flexible and lightweight, cheapest type, temperature tolerant | Low efficiency, not space efficient, short lifespan |
Important Features to Look for
Size/Weight
Whether you are looking for panels for your home or portable panels, size and weight of it are very important features. Average size of solar panels is five feet length and three feet width.
The weight is about 40 pounds per panel. Each property is specific and that is why you need to adjust the solar panels to your needs. Size and weight are always important to look at, but when buying panels specifically for your home or a commercial building, that is when you need to consider these features more seriously.
Read through our reviews and find what works the best for you.
Efficiency
Solar panel’s efficiency is one of the most important features of the panel. You will of course want a panel that has high efficiency in order to get the best results.
However, efficiency is tied with the price of the panel. The higher the price, the higher efficiency. Monocrystalline panels have the highest efficiency as well as the highest price. If you are choosing solar panels for your home, the one with higher efficiency will be the best pick for you.
In order to get the results you want and reduce your electric bills significantly, you will search for high efficiency panels.
Warranty
Whether it is nature or malfunction of the panel, if something is ought to happen to it, warranty is a necessity. There are companies that give 10-year warranty on their solar products.
Companies that provide the best customer support and take care of the buyers, offer warranty up to 25 years. They also claim that once the warranty expires, the models will work at about 90% of the original power.
Power
Every solar panel has a power output. An average power output is around 265 watts, but can also be up to and over 350 watts. If the wattage of a solar panel is higher, the electricity level produced will be, of course, higher.
Which brings us to the conclusion that you should look for solar panels that have higher wattage so you can get the best results possible. According to some sources, it takes 16 panels to power a typical household (around 1,500 square feet).
The lowest wattage a solar panel can have is 225 watts.
Price
As discussed, solar panels are pricey which means you will need to put some money aside if you decide to “go solar”. Price includes panels themselves, installation, batteries. Prices are usually decided per watt.
So, an average price for solar panels per watt can go anywhere from $2.57 to $3.35. And we already said an average output is 265 watts so the math can roughly be done. Smaller, portable panels that are used for, let’s say, charging gadgets are usually cheaper.
But panels for homes are pricier because they need more wattage and are used for much more electricity.
5 Best Performing Solar Panels for Home in 2023
| Product | Wattage | Dimensions | Module Efficiency | Degradation rate | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 360/370 W | 40x67.75 in | 20.6% / 21.2% | 92% | 25 Years |
 | 400 W | 41.4x73.98 in | 20.4% | 86% | 25 Years |
 | 415 W | 40x72.2 in | 22.3 % | 92% | 25 Years |
 | |||||
Panasonic HIT N 245W- Our Top Choice
Best for: Beginners in solar energy, this is one of the most reliable products on the market.
Introducing the Panasonic HIT N 245W: the world’s most efficient and powerful solar panel. This innovative and revolutionary technology will change the way you power your home and business. Built with an advanced monocrystalline silicon cell, it maximizes the energy output of each square inch of space.
Ideal for residential and commercial applications, the Panasonic HIT N 245W promises to be a game-changer in the solar industry.
It is a high-performance solar panel with an impressive power output of 245 watts.
This is one of the highest outputs from any single solar panel in the world. It is also one of the most efficient, with a module efficiency of 19.4 percent. More energy is converted from sunlight into usable electricity than with any other solar panels. The monocrystalline silicon cell provides excellent temperature tolerance and ensures high performance in both hot and cold climates.
The Panasonic HIT N 245W also features an advanced back sheet material, which protects the panel from moisture, dust, and UV damage.
What customers loved and hated?
PROS:
+ High power output
+ High module efficiency
+ Easy installation
+ Low maintenance
+ 25-year warranty
+ Suitable for a wide range of applications
CONS:
– Expensive
Q Cells Q.Peak–G4.1 solar panels are built with innovative technologies that provide superior energy performance and reliability. The high–efficiency mono PERC cells are designed to capture more sunlight and convert it into electricity.
These cells are also designed with an anti–reflection coating to reduce power loss from dust and dirt. Additionally, the Q Cells Q.Peak–G4.1 features an innovative frame design for easier installation and improved wind resistance.
The panel also includes an integrated junction box with bypass diodes to protect the solar cell from power loss in the event of shade or partial shade.
The Q Cells Q.Peak-G4.1 features the company’s MultiBusbar technology that increases cell conductivity and reduces internal losses and hotspots. This technology also increases the panel’s efficiency and power output.
Finally, the Q Cells Q.Peak–G4.1 comes with a 25–year warranty to ensure that customers are able to enjoy their panels for years to come. It is easy to install and requires minimal maintenance. It is designed to be resistant to wind and snow with its robust frame and structure.
Q Cells Q.Peak-G4.1
Best for: Great choice for homeowners and business owners alike
What customers loved and hated?
PROS:
+ Advanced technology for maximum efficiency and performance
+ 25-year warranty with power output guarantee
+ Easy to maintain
CONS:
– Installation may require help from a professional
– Initial cost may be high for some
Canadian Solar CS3K-305MS
Best for: Great choice for homeowners and business owners alike
Are you looking for a powerful solar panel to power your home?
Then look no further than the Canadian Solar CS3K–305MS. This cutting–edge solar panel is designed to provide maximum efficiency, reliability and peace of mind. With its advanced features and impressive performance, the CS3K–305MS is the perfect choice for anyone looking to upgrade their solar power system.
Whether you’re powering a home, business or a large–scale solar array, the CS3K–305MS will provide exceptional results.
The CS3K-305MS features a monocrystalline solar cell design, which maximizes the efficiency of its power production.
This solar panel is designed to be both easy to install and easy to maintain.
With its 25-year warranty, easy installation and maintenance, and superior power output, the CS3K-305MS is the perfect choice for anyone looking to get the most out of their solar system.
What customers loved and hated?
PROS:
+ Monocrystalline solar cell design for maximum efficiency
+ 25-year warranty with power output guarantee
+ Anodized aluminum frame and tempered glass cover for superior durability
CONS:
– Not suitable for small-scale applications
SunPower Maxeon 6 is the latest in solar energy technology, and it’s truly a marvel. Boasting an efficiency rate of up to 22.8%, the Maxeon 6 is one of the most efficient solar panels on the market. This means that you can get more power from fewer panels, saving you money and energy in the long run.
And with its sleek and stylish design, the Maxeon 6 looks great on any rooftop.
The Maxeon 6 features a unique cell design that reduces shade loss, allowing the panel to produce more power in the morning and evening. Additionally, the Maxeon 6 comes with SunPower’s exclusive 25-year Combined Power and Product Warranty, giving you peace of mind for years to come.
This solar panel is easy to install and requires little to no maintenance. It has no moving parts, so you don’t have to worry about parts breaking down or needing to be replaced. And with its advanced temperature control system, the Maxeon 6 stays cooler and produces more energy in hotter climates.
Sunpower Maxeon 6
Best for: Excellent choice for those looking to save money and reduce their environmental impact
What customers loved and hated?
PROS:
+ High efficiency rate up to 22.8%
+ 25-year Combined Power and Product Warranty
+ Low maintenance requirements
+ Advanced temperature control system
+ Produces more energy in low light conditions
CONS:
– Requires a substantial upfront investment
Sunpower Maxeon 3
Best for: Performance warranty
SunPower Maxeon 3 is the latest solar cell technology from SunPower, designed to deliver maximum efficiency and power from the sun. This revolutionary technology combines advanced materials and patented cell design to capture more energy from the sun than any other solar cell.
SunPower Maxeon 3 solar cells are designed for maximum efficiency, with an average efficiency of 22.6%.
The cells feature a patented cell design that minimizes cell-to-cell shading, increasing the overall efficiency of the system. They are also robust, able to withstand extreme temperatures, strong winds, and other harsh conditions.
SunPower Maxeon 3 solar cells are best for applications where maximum efficiency is desired. This includes residential and commercial solar energy systems, as well as applications such as electric vehicles and home energy storage. The cells are also ideal for large scale solar installations, where they can be used to generate large amounts of electricity.
SunPower provides a 40 year product warranty on all SunPower Maxeon 3 solar cells. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and degradation of the cells, as well as power output.
What customers loved and hated?
PROS:
+ High efficiency and reliability
+ Durable construction
+ Corrosion-resistant aluminum frames
CONS:
– Expensive upfront cost
– Requires regular cleaning
Other Categories to Choose From
Top Rated Solar Panels from each Category
- Best Portable: Goal Zero Nomad 20
- Best Flexible Solar Panel: Newpowa 100W 12V
- Best Solar Panel for RV: Renogy 100 Watts 12 volts Monocrystalline
- Best Panel for Camping: Goal Zero Boulder 200 W
- Best Solar Panel for Boats: Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt
- Best Solar Panel Car Battery Charger: Go Power GP-PSK-120
- Best for Travel: Goal Zero Nomad 7 Plus
TopSolar 100W - Best Portable Panel
Portable solar panels have become very popular in recent years, as they provide a great way to generate electricity without having to break the bank.
The Topsolar SolarFairy 100W is one of the best portable solar panels available on the market today. This panel is designed to be lightweight, yet powerful and reliable.
It weighs just 11.9 pounds, making it one of the lightest portable panels on the market. This makes it easy to transport and install wherever you need it. It also has an impressive power output of 100 watts, providing enough power to charge devices or to power small appliances.
The Topsolar SolarFairy 100W comes with a built–in charge controller, which helps to regulate the output of the panel and prevent overcharging of devices. It also features four USB ports, which make it easy to charge multiple devices at once. The panel also features an adjustable stand for easy positioning, as well as an LCD display for easy monitoring.
It comes with a 25–year warranty, giving you peace of mind that you are buying a quality product. Installation is relatively easy, and the panel comes with all the necessary mounting hardware for quick and easy installation.
What customers loved and hated?
PROS:
+ High efficiency:
+ Durable construction
+ Easy installation
+ Solar tracking technology
+ Wide compatibility
CONS:
– High power outputs, so it may not be suitable for smaller applications
– Limited warranty
Newpowa 100W 12V Solar Panel is a heavy–duty, lightweight, and flexible solar panel that is ideal for camping, RV, or remote home applications. It is made of high–quality monocrystalline solar cells and a durable aluminum frame that is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
The panel has a maximum power output of 100 watts and a peak voltage of up to 17.5 volts. With an IP65 rated waterproof rating, the panel can withstand rain, snow, and other outdoor elements.
It comes with a 25–year warranty, which covers workmanship and materials, as well as any defects in the product. The warranty also covers up to 80% power output after 25 years. The Newpowa 100W 12V Solar Panel has a pre–drilled hole and an adjustable mounting bracket that make it easy to install. It has a built–in junction box for simple wiring, and the panel is compatible with most charge controllers.
Since it is made of monocrystalline cells, it is very efficient and can produce a lot of energy. In addition, the panel is compatible with most charge controllers, making it easy to use with any system.
Newpowa 100W 12V - Best Flexible Panel
What customers loved and hated?
PROS:
+ 25-year warranty
+ Lightweight and flexible
+ Built-in junction box for easy wiring.
+ Compatible with most charge controllers
+ Durable aluminum frame.
+ IP65 rated waterproof rating
CONS:
– Not suitable for large-scale solar installations
– Not compatible with all charge controllers
Renogy 100 Watts 12 volts - Best Panel for RV
Renogy 100 Watts 12 volts solar panel is an excellent choice for RV owners looking to reduce their electricity bills and enjoy the convenience of solar power. This high–quality panel has been designed to provide optimal power output in all types of weather conditions and is an easy to install solution for anyone looking to enjoy the benefits of solar power.
This RV solar panel is made from high–quality monocrystalline cells and comes with a 25–year power output warranty. This ensures that the panel will remain at optimum efficiency for years to come, and that the customer will always get the most bang for their buck.
It features an anodized aluminum frame, which is strong and lightweight, making it easy to mount and install. The Renogy 100 Watts 12 volts solar panel is an ideal choice for RV owners because it is easy to install and maintain.
The panel can be installed with just a few basic tools, and the included mounting hardware makes the job even easier. Also, the panel is designed to be weather resistant, so you won’t have to worry about rain or snow damaging the panel.
PROS:
+ 25-year warranty
+ Lightweight and flexible
+ Built-in junction box for easy wiring.
+ Compatible with most charge controllers
+ Durable aluminum frame.
+ IP65 rated waterproof rating
CONS:
– Not suitable for large-scale solar installations
– Not compatible with all charge controllers
The Goal Zero Boulder 200 W is a portable solar panel that is ideal for camping and outdoor use. It is a powerful and durable panel that is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use while providing reliable and efficient solar power.
One of the key features of the Goal Zero Boulder 200 W is its high power output. With a maximum output of 200 watts, this panel is capable of charging a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even small appliances. It also has a built-in charge controller that ensures a stable flow of power to your devices and prevents overcharging or short-circuiting.
Another feature of the Goal Zero Boulder 200 W is its rugged construction. The panel is made from durable materials and is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including high winds and heavy rain. It is also equipped with a built-in kickstand that allows you to angle the panel towards the sun for optimal charging.
The Goal Zero Boulder 200 W also comes with a one-year limited warranty. This provides you with peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong with the panel within the first year of use, it will be repaired or replaced at no additional cost.
Goal Zero Boulder 200 W - Best Panel for Camping
PROS:
+ High power output
+ Durable construction
+ Built-in charge controller
+ Easy to install
CONS:
– The panel is relatively large and heavy, making it less portable than smaller solar panels
– It does not include batteries or inverters for storage
Go Power GP-PSK-120 - Best Panel for Car Battery Charging
The Go Power GP-PSK-120 is a portable solar panel that is designed specifically for charging car batteries. It is a compact and lightweight panel that is easy to transport and set up, making it ideal for camping, road trips, and other outdoor activities.
One of the key features of the Go Power GP-PSK-120 is its high power output. With a maximum output of 120 watts, this panel is capable of charging a car battery quickly and efficiently. It also has a built-in charge controller that ensures a stable flow of power to your battery and prevents overcharging or short-circuiting.
Another feature of the Go Power GP-PSK-120 is its lightweight and compact design. The panel weighs only 8 pounds, making it easy to transport and set up. It also has a small footprint, so it takes up minimal space in your vehicle.
The Go Power GP-PSK-120 also comes with a one-year warranty. This provides you with peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong with the panel within the first year of use, it will be repaired or replaced at no additional cost.
PROS:
+ High power output
+ Durable construction
+ Built-in charge controller
+ Easy to install
CONS:
– Weather dependent: it may not be suitable for prolonged use in areas with poor sun exposure
– It does not include batteries or inverters for storage