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What Kind of Solar Panel Should I Buy?

Finding The Best Solar Panel For Your Needs

Choosing the right solar panel depends on your specific needs and intended use.

We have tested and reviewed a lot of different type of panels, you can find a list of our solar panel reviews here.

Here’s a breakdown of the different types of solar panels—rigid, flexible, portable, lightweight, and slim—and their best applications:

1. Rigid Solar Panels

Description: Rigid solar panels are the most common and traditional type. They are typically made of aluminum frames with tempered glass covers, housing the photovoltaic cells. These are the type of panels we have on top of our RV, read this article if you would like to combine two or more of these.

Example: Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Solar Panel (click to view on Amazon): A rigid monocrystalline solar panel that weighs 14.1 pounds, uses MC4 connectors, is waterproof, and has mounting holes making it easy to mount for more permanent installations.

Best For:

  • Permanent Installations: Ideal for rooftops of homes, cabins, and RVs where they can be securely mounted.
  • High Efficiency: They often offer higher efficiency compared to flexible panels.

Pros:

  • Durable and long-lasting.
  • High efficiency and power output.
  • Weather-resistant, often with waterproof conjunction boxes and connectors

Cons:

  • Heavier and bulkier.
  • Requires mounting hardware for secure permanent installations
Solar panels on rv roof
We installed rigid solar panels on our RV for the best durability and weather-resistance.

2. Flexible Solar Panels

Description: Flexible solar panels are made with thin, lightweight materials that can bend to fit various surfaces. Read this article if you would like to combine two or more of these.

Example: Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Flexible Solar Panel (click to view on Amazon): A flexible monocrystalline solar panel that weighs only 4 pounds, uses MC4 connectors, is waterproof, and can be used either as a portable panel or permanently installed on a roof.

Best For:

  • Curved or Uneven Surfaces: Perfect for boats, RVs, and tents.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and easy to transport.
  • Can be applied to curved surfaces.
  • Quick installation.

Cons:

  • Generally less efficient than rigid panels.
  • Less durable and more prone to damage.

3. Portable Solar Panels

Description: Portable solar panels are designed for mobility and convenience. They often come in foldable or suitcase-like designs. We have two of these in our RV and bring them out as needed. Read this article if you would like to combine two or more of these.

Example: Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Portable Suitcase (click to view on Amazon): A portable 100W panel that weighs 20.5 pounds. Folds together like a suitcase, uses MC4 connectors, is waterproof, and can quickly be set up when you arrive at a campsite, or to charge a battery during a power outage.

Best For:

  • Camping and RVers: Great for charging devices on the go.
  • Emergency Use: Handy for backup power in emergencies.

Pros:

  • Highly portable and easy to carry.
  • Quick setup and takedown.
  • Often come with integrated stands and carrying cases.
  • Can be bought with our without a charge controller, depending on your battery setup. I have bypassed one with a controller, but it requires some DIY-skills.

Cons:

  • Lower total power output compared to permanent installations since they must be taken down and setup at new locations (if you’re a traveler).
portable solar panel connected to a goal zero yeti 1000
We bring out our portable rigid solar panels when we need more power than the roof panels can supply.

4. Portable Flexible Solar Panels

Description: These panels are often made with cloth and are designed to be lightweight and flexible, making them easy to pack and transport.

Example: Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Portable Lightweight Flexible Solar Panel (click to view on Amazon): A portable flexible and lightweight panel that weighs less than 12 pounds. Folds together for easy storage, uses MC4 connectors but also has two USB ports for quick charging portable devices like phones. IP65 rating, so not as waterproof as the rest, but can still handle some light rain. Not as stable in windy conditions.

Best For:

  • Backpacking and Travel: Ideal for situations where weight and space are critical.
  • Temporary Setups: Great for quick deployment in various locations.

Pros:

  • Extremely lightweight and portable.
  • Can be easily folded.
  • Quick and easy setup.
  • Some models have USB ports, so you can quickly charge portable devices without any extra batteries or accessories.

Cons:

  • Typically lower efficiency than rigid or traditional flexible panels.
  • Less durable and may require careful handling.
  • Not as wind-resistant as a rigid portable panel.
Jesse adjusting a portable flexible solar panel
A portable flexible panel is ideal when you want something lightweight yet effective.

5. Slim Solar Panels

Description: Slim solar panels are designed to be as thin as possible while maintaining a balance between durability and efficiency. Read this article if you would like to combine two or more of these.

Example: BougeRV Yuma 100W Thin-film Flexible Solar Panel (click to view on Amazon): Even more flexible than the more typical flexible solar panel. Weighs 4.3 pounds, uses MC4 connectors, waterproof, and has a sticky side with tape for easy installation.

Best For:

  • Aesthetic Installations: Great for installations where appearance matters, such as on buildings and vehicles.
  • Space Constraints: Fit into areas where traditional panels might be too bulky.

Pros:

  • Sleek and modern appearance.
  • Can fit into tight spaces.
  • Decent efficiency for their size.

Cons:

  • May be more expensive than standard rigid panels.
  • Potentially less durable if too thin.

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Conclusion

When choosing a solar panel, consider your specific needs:

  • For permanent installations on rooftops or fixed locations, rigid solar panels are a solid choice due to their durability and efficiency.
  • For curved surfaces or where flexibility is needed, flexible solar panels are ideal.
  • For portability and convenience during travel or emergencies, portable solar panels are the way to go.
  • For lightweight and easy handling, especially in mobile applications, portable flexible solar panels are suitable.
  • For space-constrained and aesthetically sensitive installations, slim solar panels or flexible solar panels offer a sleek solution.
  • For ultimate portability with flexibility, portable flexible solar panels made with cloth are perfect for travel and quick setups.

Evaluate your application, budget, and efficiency requirements to select the best solar panel type for your needs.

Please leave a comment if you have questions.

by Jesse
Jesse has always had an interest in camping, technology, and the outdoors. Who knew that growing up in a small town in Sweden with endless forests and lakes would do that to you?

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