PWM and MPPT controllers have their own unique advantages and disadvantages:

  1. Price: The MPPT controller is more expensive than PWM controller, however, the MPPT controller has higher charging efficiency, especially in colder weather conditions. The MPPT controller also supports more photovoltaic (PV) panels wired together in series (high voltage difference), which is another big advantage. In this case, the cross-sectional area of the connecting cable can be greatly reduced, thus reducing the overall cost of the system.
  2. Efficiency: The PWM charging controller cannot charge the maximum power generated by the photovoltaic (PV) array. Its overall efficiency is usually between 65-85%. On the other hand, the MPPT controller will ensure that the solar array is always in the best running state. In some cases, such as cold weather, the MPPT controller provides a 30% higher charging efficiency than PWM (high charging efficiency).
  3. PWM technology is mature, the circuit is simple and reliable, the price is cheap but the utilization rate of components is low, it is more suited for the small systems, the temperature range of the solar charging unit is 45-75℃.

The MPPT controller is a better choice for larger system, its higher efficiency means good economic benefit. In addition, the MPPT controller enables the user to obtain maximum power from the photovoltaic (PV) array, which is a significant advantage in situations where additional power needs exist and the space is limited to allow for the expansion of the PV array size.