Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT Solar Charge Controller (Bluetooth) - Charge Controllers for Solar Panels - 100V, 20 amp, 48-Volt

I recently purchased two *Victron 100/20 Smart solar charge controllers for my (off-grid/on-grid) solar ranch project. These controllers are very versatile and compatible with any 12v, 24v, or 48-volt system and are rated up to 100 volts max / 20 amps max. Currently, these controllers are managing two 480-watt 24-volt solar arrays and two 24-volt x 400Ah battery banks. I plan to expand to a 48-volt system soon using the same controllers. The Bluetooth function is very handy for changing settings and monitoring your system. I didn't see a real need for a display screen on the unit itself (unlike a few reviews I've read) since you can carry the display screen with you using the phone app.I'm sold on *VICTRON*. Spend a couple more dollars and get the best. Five ***** Stars!

I have many Victron components and as always they work flawlessly. This does great with my solar panels on my RV. Functions perfect, bluetooth adds so much. Controls are easy, and the controllers is perfect.

This solar charge controller is my go-to controller for my solar generator builds. I use a 12 volt system and these are Bluetooth and connectivity is is positive. These controllers all well built small in size and the connections are easy to locate. I have purchased at least six of these for my solar generators that I have built and I have had no issues with installation and connectivity. Anyone that is building a solar generator will be happy with this product because the app software provides information in regards to watt hours are being used and All battery functions are listed on the app. There are no negatives in my opinion with the solar charge controller.

Summary: I have evaluated quite a few MPPT controllers for Vine, and while all were decent, the Victron Energy (VE) has high ratings, so I decided to purchase one for evaluation. My solar/PV system specs: 1000W of panels; 24-volt, 270Ah marine battery bank (Optima); Voltworks 2000W inverter. Using the system to reduce our electricity bill.Observations: The first thing to notice is that this one, unlike most others, does not have a control panel (just three LEDs); which means you'll need a smart device to read the values. There are two basic VE offerings: this SmartSolar (built-in bluetooth), and BlueSolar (requires a BT dongle). Between the two, I went with the built-in BT (SmartSolar). One great feature of the VE system, is that it allows the MPPTs to communicate with each other via BT; which is a great feature for a larger system.Recommendations: One reason to choose the lower cost BlueSolar over the SmartSolar, is if you do not need the additional features that the BT brings; but for me, I didn't mind spending the extra $30-40 (per controller) to gain those features.Pros: Industrial quality & features; good application support (firmware updated upon first connect); security (bluetooth); good/efficient charging algorithm; good data and graphs.Cons: No built-in display (offset by the much better app and graphs).Conclusion: At $160, rating this 5-stars. Of all the MPPT controllers I have reviewed, this is the recommended one.Related Products (lised in ORDER of HIGH to LOW rating):EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller 10A 60V PV 1206N ~ $60 (5-star)https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B094JCG6Y1ACOPOWER Midas 40A MPPT ~ $180 (4-star)https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08HQB8RYKACOPOWER MPPT Solar Charge Controller 30A ~ $140 (4-star)https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NB1KOOZRenogy Rover 20/30/40 Amp ~ $112/170/168 (2-star)https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MRWTAB5GARNDE Rosefinch XS 30A MPPT ~ $150 (1-star)https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B094Z7RVXR

This Victron charge controller is electrifying! It was relatively easy to install in my trailer, attach the red and black wires to the PV and Battery inputs, then send the battery wires to the + and - terminals of the battery, as well as plugging in the solar panel. The unit's Bluetooth feature is very useful. It allows me to monitor the incoming voltage and amps from the solar panel, in addition to the battery charge state., all on my smart phone. It's true that these units are a bit pricey, but they are top quality controllers that will last a long time. The other Victron charge controller in my trailer has been working flawlessly ever since it was installed 4 years ago. I heartily recommend Victron and their products.

The Victron 100v 20 amp 48-volt * * * Solar Charger Controller does have Bluetooth. But works best with 12 or 24 volts for the full 20 amp output. Note: with a 48 volt battery it can only output 1 amp. Therefore look carefully at the specs before purchase. Victron does indeed have many of the very best charge controllers on the market, very reliable, and reasonably priced. This charge controller is now installed into my backup solar power wall as a secondary.

I have 3 Kyocera 140 watt PV modules in series so needed a MPPT charge controller capable of switching that HV input to charge a 24 VDC battery to replace the BZ products one which failed.The unit works great, but I wish it came in an enclosure capable of accomodating the need for conduit... which is a NEC code requirement. I kludged some wire wrap over the connections which is hacky at best.

So many cheap controllers out there with bad directions and confusing menus, it's nice to find one that is simple and straight forward to use. Download the phone app, hook up the controller and let it do it's magic. MPPT is the way to go and if my 52 year old self can figure it out, you can too.