Best Solar Panels
Good warranties, highest efficiency ratings.
440W
22.8%
-0.29%/ °C
Includes theft and damage insurance on solar leases
400W
21%
-0.26%/ °C
Reputable electronics brand, built to withstand high temperatures.
410W
22.2%
-0.26%/ °C
Great value for the quality, extensive warranties available.
410W
21.4%
-0.36%/ °C
Budget-friendly option, high efficiency for the price.
460W
22.5%
-0.26%/ °C
Positive customer reviews, free quotes and helpful app.
405W
20.6%
-0.34%/ °C
Solar panels are an investment in your future. Installing solar power can help lower the cost of running your most expensive appliances, raise the value of your home, and give you access to solar tax credits. But they can also be expensive — it's essential to do your research and pick the best solar panel company for your needs.
This review will walk you through five of the industry's most popular solar panel brands and cover the pros, cons and highlights of each, as well as provide a guide to help you pick the right solar panels for your home.
Our Top Picks For Best Solar Panels
- Panasonic - Best For Extreme Temperatures
- SunPower - Best Efficiency Rating
- Silfab - Best Warranty Options
- Canadian Solar - Best For Affordability
- Qcells - Best Customer Service
Best Solar Panels Reviews
Why we chose it: Panasonic solar panels have a temperature coefficient of -0.26% per degree Celsius. That means these panels are built to withstand extreme temperatures and won't lose their function in a hot climate.
Panasonic's EverVolt series of home solar panels are well-reviewed for their efficiency and durability. They have 410W of output per panel and an efficiency rating of up to 22.2%, depending on your chosen model. Unfortunately, some models have efficiency ratings as low as 14% to 18%.
According to Panasonic, these panels should retain at least 92% of their power output after 25 years of use. If they lose over 8% of their output within that period, replacement parts are covered under the 25-year parts warranty.
The standout feature of Panasonic's solar panels is their temperature coefficient. The temperature coefficient measures how much power is lost per each degree of warming as the panel heats up. The closer to zero that number is, the better the panel performs in high temperatures. Panasonic's panels have a temperature coefficient of -0.26% per degree Celsius. Other panels on this list have a coefficient of 0.3% or higher.
That low temperature coefficient makes Panasonic a good choice for someone who lives in a hot climate. However, Panasonic panels are pricier than other options and require a significant investment. In addition, the company recently outsourced the manufacturing of its panels, which could be an important consideration if you prefer American-made technologies.
Panasonic solar installation is available in all 50 states through its licensed installers. It has live chat services on its website and a 24/7 phone line to answer any questions about your warranty or solar panels. Customer comments on review sites show that these panels are high-quality and a good value for the cost. The company has an A+ rating with the BBB and responds to 100% of customer complaints on the site, which indicates helpful and responsive customer service.
Why we chose it: SunPower's Maxeon solar panels have higher efficiency ratings than any other panels on the market. This isn't a low-cost solar company, but it receives high ratings across review sites for quality, warranties and efficiency.
SunPower is one of the most popular solar panel manufacturers in the US, albeit one of the most expensive. With this company, you get what you pay for — SunPower's panels have a maximum efficiency rating of 22.8%, higher than comparable brands. They also come with extensive product, performance and workmanship warranties.
The efficiency rating of solar panels is a measure of how much sunlight is converted to usable energy. So, an efficiency rating of 20% means that 20% of the sun's energy absorbed by the panel becomes usable energy in your home. Average solar panels have a 15% to 18% efficiency rating. All of SunPower's products have above-average ratings, meaning they're more sustainable and cost-effective than the competition.
SunPower has an A+ rating from the BBB. The company does receive some negative reviews on consumer feedback sites, mainly referring to its customer service. It's important to note that SunPower's customer service is handled by its certified installers nationwide. That means your experience will depend on the installer in your area.
If you want to invest in long-term, sustainable solar energy, SunPower could be the way to go. But this isn't the best company if you're looking for an affordable option or want a guarantee of high-quality customer service.
Why we chose it: Silfab offers a 25-year product warranty and a 30-year performance warranty for all of its solar panels. Along with its warranties, this company produces efficient panels at an affordable price for the quality level.
Silfab is a North American solar panel manufacturer known for its durable panels and affordability. These solar panels have temperature coefficients between -0.36% and -0.38% per degree Celsius. Those aren't the best ratings for high temperatures, but Silfab's panels are built to withstand heavy snow and winds, so consequently may be best for people who live in colder climates.
Silfab's solar panels have efficiency ratings between 20.2% and 21.4%. That's not quite as high as SunPower's efficiency ratings, but higher than other options in the same price range. The standout quality of this company is its warranties — Silfab offers a 25-year product warranty and a 30-year performance warranty on all of its solar panel models. The product warranty covers repairs, including parts and labor, for any issues that occur with your solar panels within 25 years. The performance warranty covers repairs if your panels lose over 80% of their power output within 30 years.
In terms of pricing, Silfab isn't the most affordable option on this list. But these panels are less expensive than comparable brands with similar quality, durability and warranty options. The main downside is that Silfab doesn't handle its own panel installation, so the quality of your service will depend on the local installer you work with. This is also a relatively new solar manufacturer, meaning there are limited customer reviews.
You can reach Silfab's customer service at the 24/7 helpline or through email. This brand is the best choice for someone looking for a long warranty, but it might not suit you if you prioritize a trusted, long-standing brand name.
Why we chose it: Canadian Solar produces high-quality, durable solar panels at a budget-friendly cost. While the warranties for these panels aren't the greatest, they're highly efficient for the price range.
Canadian Solar produces a range of solar panel models with a power output of up to 460W per panel. They offer both monocrystalline (solar cells made from a single source of silicon) and polycrystalline (solar cells with blended silicon) panels. The monocrystalline panels have a sleek black design but are usually costlier than other options.
The most efficient solar panels made by Canadian solar have up to 22.5% efficiency ratings. They also have temperature coefficients as low as -0.26% per degree Celsius. Those ratings are comparable to more expensive brands like SunPower and Panasonic. However, where Canadian Solar falls behind those brands is with its warranties. The company offers a 25-year performance warranty that covers repairs if your panels fall below 83% output. Its product warranties vary for each solar panel model; some are as short as 12 years.
This company offers solar panel installation through its own installers and licensed contractors nationwide. It has limited customer reviews online, and customer service is available over the phone during business hours (PST) or through email. This might not be the best solar company if you're looking for prompt, helpful customer service or a comprehensive warranty. But it offers high-quality products for the price. Canadian Solar could be a good option for a new homeowner installing solar on a budget.
Why we chose it: Qcells offers free cost estimates and a user-friendly app for remote monitoring. This company receives positive ratings on multiple solar review sites.
Qcells, a German solar panel manufacturer, offers solar panel installation through its licensed installers across the US. This is another budget-friendly option with comparable prices to Canadian Solar. Qcells receives plenty of positive reviews for its customer service.
You can get a free quote by visiting Qcells's North American website and filling out a brief form. A customer service representative will contact you with a cost estimate based on your home size, location and other factors. The company can also connect you with an energy advisor in your area to learn more about your options. Once your solar panels are installed, you can download the Qcells app to monitor their power output and function.
Qcells's solar panels have a power output of up to 405W, slightly lower than some of the other options on this list. Efficiency ratings max out at 20.6%. Their temperature coefficient ratings are also average at around -0.34% per degree Celsius. These panels aren't the best for hot climates, but are built to withstand heavy snow in colder areas.
Qcells offers a 25-year product warranty for most solar panel models. However, some of its system components have warranties as short as two years. Another downside is that it only offers monocrystalline panels, which many customers like for their sleek black design, but aren't always as efficient as polycrystalline panels.
Other Solar Panels We Considered
Solar energy is becoming a popular investment for homeowners around the country. Many brands produce and install solar panels in the US alongside the companies listed above; here are a few more popular options — and why they didn't make our list of the best solar panels.
Trina
Trina Solar is a Chinese solar panel manufacturer that offers a range of monocrystalline models. These solar panels are relatively affordable and have decent efficiency ratings for the price, but Trina only offers a 12-year product warranty. Its panels have up to 400W of power, which is lower than comparable options.
Tesla
Tesla is known as one of the biggest names in electric vehicles, but it also produces home solar panels. These panels have a low-profile design but only four sizing options, which might make it difficult to fit them onto your roof. Tesla also has limited customer service and receives negative reviews on some sites.
REC Solar
REC Solar's panels are similar to Panasonic and SunPower in terms of price and quality. These are durable panels with efficiency ratings up to 22.3% and good temperature coefficients. However, as a lesser-known brand name, REC has limited customer reviews online, and its certified installers aren't as widely available as other big brands.
Solar Panels Guide
If you're considering switching to solar power, there are a few things to consider before you start shopping. Solar will help you save money in the long run and can offset the costs of your appliances that use a lot of energy. But they also require a significant upfront investment, so picking the best solar company for your home, budget and energy needs is crucial.
What Are Solar Panels?
Solar panels absorb energy from the sun and convert it to usable energy in your home. They are usually installed on your roof or in your yard and capture energy throughout the day. Smaller panel types, including portable solar panels or RV solar panels, can be taken on the go to create usable energy for camping, hunting or road trips.
There are a few key reasons people choose to install solar panels for home energy use:
- Sustainability: Solar energy is a renewable resource and doesn't release greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. Many people choose to install solar to lower their carbon footprint.
- Saving money: With solar panels, you can offset your monthly energy costs or even eliminate them. Solar will also raise the resale value of your home, so you get more out of your property investment.
- Tax credits: Solar tax credits are another way you can save money with solar. These incentives can lower your annual state or federal tax payments.
- Off-grid energy: Many people use solar panels to power their homes off-grid. This requires a powerful home battery to store the power your solar panels capture and use it throughout the day.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
When solar energy (sunlight) hits a solar panel, it reacts with semiconductors inside the panel. This creates an electrical current, which merges with the currents produced by the rest of your solar panel system and is converted into AC power — the same type of power we use to run our homes.
There are two main types of solar panels:
- Monocrystalline: This panel type is made of single silicon crystals and acts as a single photovoltaic cell. Monocrystalline solar panels are generally more durable and efficient but can be expensive to manufacture.
- Polycrystalline: These panels incorporate multiple silicon crystals and absorb energy as an arrangement of photovoltaic cells. Polycrystalline panels are cheaper to produce but less efficient than monocrystalline models.
A few things can happen to the AC power generated by your solar panels. It can be used to power your home, which will offset the amount of power you use from the power grid, or it can be "sold" back to the grid through a process called net metering. With net metering, you'll be charged the difference between the power you use and the power your home generates, lowering your monthly power bill.
The other option is to store your solar energy in a home battery. Solar batteries retain energy to be used throughout the day and night. Without a battery, your home can only use solar energy while it's being generated. Batteries can help power off-grid homes but aren't necessary if your home is on a municipal power grid.
How To Choose A Solar Panel Company
The right solar panel company for you depends on your priorities. There are tons of reputable solar manufacturers out there, each with its own pros and cons. Here are a few factors to consider before you make your choice.
Pricing
Solar is always an investment, but your solar panel cost can vary depending on the company you work with. Some companies offer more affordable panels than others. Just be aware that a lower price can affect the workmanship, warranties and technologies used to produce the panel — you should always read the product reviews before you buy a budget-friendly solar system.
The cost of installation can also add to your investment. To save money, you might want to look for a solar company that has a wide reach and works with multiple licensed installers in your area.
Household Energy Use
Before you buy solar, consider your home energy use. Will you get your money's worth from a high-quality, expansive monocrystalline system, or will a few small polycrystalline panels be enough to offset your energy costs?
The size of your home can also affect how much energy you use. Larger homes need more solar panels to power them, but they also have more roof space to hold those panels. Remember, if your home is on a power grid, you don't need enough solar energy to cover 100% of your home usage — but the more solar energy you can use, the better return you'll get on your investment.
Get in touch with a local solar installer to talk about your energy needs. They might be able to recommend the best brand for your home to help you avoid overpaying.
Solar Panel Efficiency
The more efficient a solar panel is, the more energy it produces. A higher efficiency rating means more energy saved in your home.
An average solar panel has an efficiency rating of around 15% to 18%. The best solar panels from top manufacturers reach up to 22% efficiency. You might have to pay more for a high-quality, efficient solar panel, but you'll save more on energy costs in the long run.
Temperature Coefficient
The temperature coefficient is an essential factor if you live in a hot climate. This measurement shows how much your solar panel's power output will decrease as it heats up. For example, a temperature coefficient of -0.3% per degree Celsius means the panel loses 0.3% of its power per degree above its standard operating temperature.
Along with the temperature coefficient, you should pay attention to a solar panel's wind and snow ratings. Some panels are designed for colder climates, meaning they can withstand heavy snow buildup and high wind speeds. Make sure you choose a solar manufacturer that fits your local climate.
Installation Services
Most solar manufacturers provide credentials to local installers, certifying them to carry and install their products. Before you decide on a solar company, ensure there is a licensed installer in your area.
Some certification processes are more in-depth than others. In other words, with certain solar brands, the quality of your installation is entirely up to the installer. With others, you can trust that the installer has gone through extensive training. You can learn more about each brand's certification and licensing process by reading customer reviews online.
Solar Panels FAQ
How We Chose The Best Solar Panels
We looked into a few critical factors to narrow down the best solar panel companies. Important features of the best solar panels include:
- Maximum power output per panel: The higher output each solar panel has, the more you'll get out of your solar system, regardless of how many panels you have.
- Maximum efficiency per panel: Efficient solar panels convert more sunlight into usable energy, so you'll reach your ROI for your solar panel installation faster.
- Quality for the price: Cheaper isn't necessarily better, but we looked for solar panel companies that charge a fair cost for the quality of their products.
- Nationwide availability: We looked for solar panel companies that are available nationwide.
- Third-party ratings and reviews: Multiple ratings from third-party reviewers can provide a clearer picture of a company's products, customer service and ease of use.
- Number of customer complaints online: A high rate of customer complaints shows poor customer service and a lack of transparency in a company.
- Temperature coefficient: The temperature coefficient shows how well a solar panel will function in high temperatures. This rating is most important for people who live in hot climates.
- Durability and warranty offers: Because solar is a significant investment, your panels must be built to last and come with extended warranties to cover future repairs.
Summary Of Digg's Best Solar Panels
- Panasonic - Best For Extreme Temperatures
- SunPower - Best Efficiency Rating
- Silfab - Best Warranty Options
- Canadian Solar - Best For Affordability
- Qcells - Best Customer Service
