Types Of Solar Panels: Which One Is The Best Choice?

There are three main types of solar panels used in solar projects: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film.

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Each kind of solar panel has different characteristics, thus making certain panels more suitable for different types of solar installations.

Luckily, we've created a complete guide to help you differentiate each type of panel, and help you decide which type is right for your home.

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Key takeaways

• There are three different types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film.

• Monocrystalline solar panels are highly efficient and have a sleek design, but come at a higher price point than other solar panels.

• Polycrystalline solar panels are cheaper than monocrystalline panels, however, they are less efficient and aren’t as aesthetically pleasing.

• Thin film solar panels are the cheapest, but have the lowest efficiency rating and require a lot of space to meet your energy needs.

• The brand of solar panels and the solar installer you choose is far more important than which type of solar panel you install.

Three types of solar panels

1. Monocrystalline

Monocrystalline solar panels are the most popular solar panels used in rooftop solar panel installations today.

Monocrystalline silicon solar cells are manufactured using a method known as the Czochralski process, where a ‘seed’ crystal of silicon is placed into a molten vat of pure silicon at a high temperature.

This procedure creates a single silicon crystal, referred to as an ingot, that is sliced into thin wafers for solar modules.

2. Polycrystalline

Polycrystalline panels, also recognized as ‘multicrystalline panels,’ are favored by homeowners seeking affordable solar solutions.

Like monocrystalline panels, polycrystalline versions are made from silicon solar cells. However, the cooling process differs, leading to the formation of multiple crystals instead of one.

Typically, residential polycrystalline panels consist of 60 solar cells.

3. Thin-film

Thin film solar cells are predominantly used in large-scale industrial and utility solar projects due to their lower efficiency ratings, though portable versions are available from companies like BougeRV.

These panels are created by applying a thin layer of a photovoltaic material onto a solid substrate like glass. Common substances include Amorphous silicon (a-Si), copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), and cadmium telluride (CdTe). Each type produces a distinct variant of a thin film solar panel.

During manufacturing, the photovoltaic layer becomes a lightweight sheet that can sometimes be flexible.

Solar panel type by performance

Highest performance: Monocrystalline

Monocrystalline solar panels exhibit efficiency ratings ranging from 17% to 22%, making them the most efficient panel type available. Their high efficiency makes them ideal for homes with limited roof space, as fewer panels are necessary to meet energy needs.

Monocrystalline panels benefit from their manufacturing method, allowing electrons to flow freely throughout the cell, thus enhancing overall efficiency.

These panels not only have superior efficiency ratings but typically also boast higher power output ratings. Most monocrystalline products on the market can deliver a power output of at least 320 watts, sometimes exceeding 375 watts!

Mid-tier performance: Polycrystalline

Efficiency ratings for polycrystalline panels usually range from 15% to 17%. Their lower ratings stem from the restricted movement of electrons in the multiple silicon crystals that make up these solar cells.

This results in a lower power output compared to monocrystalline panels, generally between 240 watts and 300 watts. While 300-watt solar panels aren't frequently used in residential settings, some polycrystalline models exceed that rating.

However, advancements in technology and manufacturing have gradually improved the efficiency and power ratings of polycrystalline panels, decreasing the performance gap with monocrystalline options.

Lowest performance: Thin-film

Thin-film solar panels exhibit remarkably low efficiency ratings. In previous years, efficiencies were often in single digits, though recent prototypes have reached 23.4% efficiency. Still, commercially available thin-film panels usually achieve efficiencies between 10% and 13%.

To meet energy requirements, significantly more thin-film panels are needed, occupying a larger area compared to crystalline silicon panels, which is why they're impractical for residential applications with limited space.

Fun fact! Thin-film panels have the best temperature coefficients!

Despite their low performance in most areas, thin-film panels perform best at high temperatures, producing less electricity as temperatures increase. Their temperature coefficient indicates how much output decreases for every degree Celsius rise above 25°C. For instance, crystalline panels tend to have a coefficient between -0.3% and -0.5% per °C, while thin-film panels have a coefficient around -0.2% per °C, making them more efficient under heat than other types.

Calculate your solar panel payback period

Solar panel type by cost

Highest cost: Monocrystalline panels

Monocrystalline panels rank as the priciest among solar panel types due to their intricate manufacturing process and superior performance.

However, enhancements in manufacturing techniques have significantly reduced the price gap between monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels. Data from the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory shows the cost difference is now about $0.05 per watt.

Mid-cost: Polycrystalline panels

Historically, polycrystalline panels appealed to cost-conscious homeowners, offering lower prices without significantly sacrificing performance. Their affordable nature garnered them substantial market share in residential installations.

Yet, as mentioned, the price disparity between monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels has diminished, leading many to invest a bit more for enhanced efficiency and power output with monocrystalline options.

Lowest cost: Thin-film panels

Thin-film solar panels are the least expensive type due to their easier installation and reduced equipment requirements. However, they underperform compared to the other types and necessitate larger spaces for adequate energy generation.

Moreover, their quicker degradation rates than other types can result in more frequent replacements, translating to higher long-term costs.

Solar panel type by appearance

Most attractive: Thin-film panels

Thin-film panels feature a sleek all-black design. Their compact profile allows for a flush installation against rooftops, offering a blended aesthetic. In some instances, the individual cells may not even be visible, and they typically have less visible wiring or busbars.

However, due to their inefficiency, full roof coverage with thin-film panels could be necessary, which may clash with desired aesthetics.

Mid-tier appearance: Monocrystalline panels

Monocrystalline panels present a solid black appearance, generally seated subtly on rooftops. Yet, their cell configurations can result in noticeable white spaces on the panels. Some manufacturers have devised methods to address this through black framing or unique cell shapes, but these modifications may also impact cost and performance.

Ultimately, while they maintain a sleek look, monocrystalline panels tend to be more visible compared to their thin-film counterparts.

Worst appearance: Polycrystalline panels

Polycrystalline panels often attract attention for their strikingly distinct marbled blue appearance. The manufacturing process gives rise to inconsistencies among panels, which can detract from a uniform aesthetic. Many homeowners find themselves less inclined toward the looks of polycrystalline panels.

Fun fact! Crystalline panels are more durable than thin film

Thin-film panels often have lower ratings for wind and hail resistance compared to mono- and polycrystalline panels. Therefore, despite their initial visual appeal, adverse weather could lead to considerable damage.

What is the best type of solar panel for your home?

Monocrystalline solar panels are the top choice for residential installations.

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While monocrystalline panels come at a higher price, they provide an attractive appearance without sacrificing performance or durability. The superior efficiency and higher power output from these panels can lead to greater savings over their lifespan.

For those on a tighter budget, polycrystalline panels might prove to be a more suitable alternative. We advise against choosing thin-film solar panels for residential settings due to their subpar performance and durability, alongside the likely insufficient space for the number of panels required to meet energy needs.

A concise overview to aid in your decision-making process for your home’s solar installation:

Monocrystalline solar panels

• Featuring a sleek black look with high-quality silicon

• Require less space with an extended lifespan

• Involved in an energy-intensive production process that generates considerable waste

• Typically carry a higher installation cost

Polycrystalline solar panels

• Characterized by visible crystals and a more scattered appearance with lower-quality silicon

• Use a bit more space to generate the same energy output as monocrystalline panels

• Utilize a simpler production process with less waste

• More affordable

Factors to consider besides solar panel type

Two critical factors at SolarReviews that typically outweigh the type of solar PV cells when selecting panels for your home are the brand of solar products and choosing a reputable solar installer.

Choosing a high-quality solar panel manufacturer guarantees a superior product on your roof, irrespective of the panel type. Our rankings of top home solar panel brands can assist you in finding the best options without compromising on quality.

No matter the panel type you decide on, installing solar to power your household is a sustainable choice with multiple benefits:

• Reduces harmful emissions

• Provides easy financing options for solar installation

• Enables claiming sales and property tax exemptions

• Offers credits for surplus electricity production

Most importantly, any panel installation will significantly reduce your monthly energy bills.

The installer is perhaps the most crucial aspect of your solar plan. Since solar systems remain on roofs for at least 25 years, selecting a reliable installer is vital for long-term peace of mind. We recommend engaging reputable local solar installers with high customer satisfaction ratings for optimal service throughout your solar project.

See what local solar installers are charging for solar panel installations

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