Which is Better PWM or MPPT Solar Charge Controller?

Before installing your solar IPS, choose which type of solar charge controller is better for you. We will find two types of controllers in the market— MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) and PWM (Pulse Width Modulation).

But often buyers become confused about their suitable ones. In this blog, we will show you the differences and identify which one is better according to your use case.

Key Points:

• Definition of MPPT and PWM solar charge controller systems.
• The major differences between MPPT and PWM solar charge controller systems.
• Explaining which system is better in which situations and users.

So, without any more delay, let’s hop into the definition first!

What is a PWM Solar Charge Controller?

PWM charge controllers are an affordable option for small-scale solar systems. They regulate power flow to the battery by reducing current in pulses. Moreover, PWM controllers become less efficient in larger installations. They continue to supply minimal power to maintain any type of battery charge, even when full.

What is an MPPT Solar Charge Controller?

MPPT charge controllers extract maximum power from solar panels in every weather condition. They continuously monitor and adjust their input to regulate the system’s current and voltage. In the math, MPPT controllers achieve more than 90% efficiency by stepping down voltage and boosting current.

PWM vs MPPT: The Differences

The primary differences lie in power efficiency, pricing, performance, and electronics compatibility.

• Efficiency: MPPT controllers are more efficient when the weather varies. It can maximize energy output from solar panels on cloudy and sunny days.
• Installation Cost: PWM controllers are simpler and cheaper options if you have a smaller system. Whereas MPPT controllers are more costlier for extra performance.
• Weather Conditions: MPPT controllers can bear cold and low-light conditions, which is pretty good for adapting to different conditions.
• Application Suitability: PWM controllers are well enough for small and basic solar setups for running normal instruments. But MPPT controllers are ideal for larger commercial grade electronics.

Which is Better, PWM and MPPT?

If we consider the power output and efficiency, yes, you can rely on the MPPT system for more lethal output. So it is better when you compare it with the efficiency of another solar charge controller. But we cannot say that one particular system is best over another.

In fact, you can choose PWM over MPPT or MPPT over PWM for better results in your particular setup. PWM is better for small systems, but MPPT has the best power efficiency. So, you can determine which one is best for you according to your budget and needs.

When is PWM Better?

You should buy the PWM controller when you want to reduce the costs of operating home-based electronics. For small-scale systems with low power requirements, the additional cost of an MPPT controller may not justify the increased efficiency. 

Plus, PWM controllers maintain relatively constant efficiency across different system sizes. If you use MPPT controllers in low-power applications, they can exhibit reduced efficiency compared to their peak performance.

Moreover, when panel voltage is lower in hot weather, the efficiency advantage of MPPT controllers may be diminished, and the efficiency of PWM controllers might be upgraded. 

In such cases, a less expensive PWM controller may be sufficient.

When is MPPT Better?

MPPT controllers operate at higher voltages by uplifting your energy harvest by 5-30% compared to PWM controllers. More significantly, they continuously adjust voltage and current to maximize power output.

Then, MPPT controllers can work with a wider range of solar modules and array configurations. They support smaller wire sizes for the array. Overall, MPPT controllers can handle oversized arrays by limiting current intake during peak solar hours.

So, if you want increased energy production during early and late daylight hours, you have the MPPT system as a better option.

What is Better for Array to Load Ratio?

A large solar array relative to the system’s power draw will keep batteries nearly full. In such cases, a less expensive PWM controller can efficiently maintain the system, making an MPPT controller unnecessary.

Conclusion

The working process of the solar inverter is quiet and user-friendly. So, you just need to think about which types of solar charge controllers will get your job done in your budget. Of course, the expensive one, such as the MPPT solar charge controller system, is convenient. But that does not mean you cannot get performance from PWM units.

At IPS Bazar, we have all the premium quality PWM and MPPT controllers at the best price. The products are quality-tested and directly imported from the factories. So, you can place an order or contact us for more information to clarify any confusion.

FAQs

Are there any disadvantages of MPPT solar charge controllers?

There is no disadvantage in performance from MPPT solar charge controllers. Just the controllers will be high prices and heavy in size due to its infrastructure. So, you might need an expert person for the installation.

Is MPPT better than PWM in cloudy weather?

MPPT controllers outperform PWM controllers on cloudy days. It’s because they can be friendly to lower light levels. So, they can maximize energy output from solar panels in rainy weather. For this value, many people buy expensive MPPT controllers over affordable PWM controllers.

What are the best features of PWM controllers?

PWM controllers are simple and affordable options for general citizens. The best quality is ideal for small-scale solar systems. As they are easy to maintain, you could have a longer lifespan due to their fewer components. Although described as less efficient than MPPT controllers, PWM controllers are perfect in the low budget.