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The Best Solar Panels

Where Can You Find the Best Solar Panels?

Solar power is still a relatively new innovation, and it can be overwhelming trying to understand which solar panels are the best. It's important to recognize your priorities: if you're not overly concerned with maximum output and you want to stay on budget, you could choose something less efficient and still be happy with your solar storage system.

If you've decided to do it yourself, you may want to consider a company that also sells the compatible parts you will need when setting up your solar storage system. This way, you can know that all parts will work together. Another thing to consider as a DIYer is whether the company offers tech or permitting support. You may also want a company that can work with you to design a plan that would include helping you with the necessary permits and interconnection if you want to be hooked up to the electrical grid to receive rebates.

Sunday, February 16th

2025 Solar Panel Reviews

Top Consumer Reviews Best-In-Class Blue Ribbon Award EcoDirect Review 5 Star Rating

EcoDirect

5 Star Rating
  • Family-owned
  • Panels start at $36
  • Locals can pick up solar panels to save on shipping
  • Custom kits available
  • Technical support available
  • Financing options available
Top Consumer Reviews Best-In-Class Blue Ribbon Award

EcoDirect was founded in 2009 and is based in Carlsbad, California. This company designs and distributes for residential, commercial, and independent battery-based applications. EcoDirect is dedicated to providing solar to everyone, and they have a dedicated team providing technical support and clear guidance so customers can narrow down the choices to what best fits their needs.

Inviting website

EcoDirect offers a better look and experience than many other solar panel companies that use a slightly altered version of the same overly busy website template. EcoDirect feels warm and inviting in comparison.

Open-door policy

We loved that in the small print the company states, "If you are in the Southern California area and are interested in picking up an order or just coming in to say hello, please give us a call.” EcoDirect has nothing to hide here. Even in their "about” section, they honestly state that they have grown from a 3-person home operation to now having 10+ employees. There are no exaggerations here. This open-door policy adds a lot to company transparency. Also, we love the idea that we could pop by just to say "hello.”. That's a pretty friendly company culture.

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Solar panels offered from EcoDirect

EcoDirect sells so much more than solar panels. Sometimes, that makes it hard to find what you're looking for. Not so with EcoDirect. So much more organized and easy to navigate than a typical solar panel website, they have a whole category dedicated to solar panels, which breaks down into subcategories:

  • 200 watts and under. These are perfect for charging electric cars, small electronics, small garden, and emergency power equipment. These range from $36 for a 10-watt solar panel (new) to $424 for a 200-watt portable solar panel kit.
  • 300 watts or more. These solar panels are powerful and can be part of your DIY plans for whatever you have in mind. These come in all kinds of voltage levels and sizes to help you complete your dream solutions. These range in price from $153.10 for a 410-watt, 144 half-cell, bifacial mono solar panel to around $7,500 for 32 415-watt mono solar panels.
  • Commercial solar panels. These competitively priced solar panels are specifically made for commercial solar solutions. These panels are perfect for large ground mount projects or commercial rooftops. You can fill out a form online to learn more about commercial pricing.
  • Panels by pallet or container. This category is for people who want to save on a big project and receive bulk pricing. You will need to call for a quote in this category.

EcoDirect also places convenient links to popular brands like Mission, SLD, Solar Direct, and more.

California customers can get extra services

California homeowners can use EcoDirect for support services for existing solar systems that may have problems or need troubleshooting. Just fill out the form if you need some help with your current solar storage system.

Free local pickup

As was mentioned, you can pick up your solar panels at the warehouse. Customers have noted that it actually is nice to go and pick up and inspect the panels before taking them home, just in case there could have been damage during the shipping process. Shipping solar panels is always pricey, so be prepared to add on a pretty high rate (because solar panels are delicate and need to be shipped carefully).

Quick shipping

If you don't live close enough to Carlsbad to pick up locally, customers repeatedly say that their shipments arrived on time or even earlier than expected. Often, solar panels take a very long time to ship, as they are coming from the other side of the world. EcoDirect generally has stock ready to ship via either FedEx or UPS; freight shipments are sent via insured carriers. That means most orders can arrive within 7-10 days.

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Financing available

Getting your home off the grid requires an initial investment, and EcoDirect understands that. They offer flexible financing through LightStream/SunTrust Bank with credit application approval. They also take PayPal, Bitcoin, and bank ACH or wire transfer payments.

Great social media channels

EcoDirect has updated and active social media accounts that are engaging and fun. We love that they have photos of their products at expos and other events.

Lots of good reviews

Customers consistently praise EcoDirect for their great and responsive customer service and quick delivery times. Over and over, people say how nice it was to get an update from the company about when items would ship. This is not the case with all solar panel companies. People also comment on the cheerful, friendly attitude of the customer service representatives. It is apparent that EcoDirect treats its small customers with just as much respect as it treats its commercial players.

EcoDirect is a sunny spot in online solar panel shopping

Shopping around the EcoDirect website was a fun and pleasant experience. We love that whether you are a commercial customer or an individual, EcoDirect offers the same customer service. With its easy-to-navigate website and friendly vibe, we can recommend EcoDirect as the best choice for finding the perfect solar panels for your solar storage needs.

Go Green Solar Review 4.5 Star Rating

Go Green Solar

4.5 Star Rating
  • Solar panels start at around $250
  • Solar interconnection services available
  • Custom kits and designs available
  • Financing available
  • Permit guarantee
  • Made in USA panels available

Go Green Solar, part of GigaWatt, Inc., was founded in 2006 and began its operations out of a garage. The website grew, and Go Green Solar did, too. Now they offer solar panels, wind turbines, LED lights, and other energy-saving products. The company not only sells and distributes green energy products, but it also designs, manufactures, and installs solar as a California C-10 Electrical Contractor.

Save money with this innovative approach

Rather than paying $3.20 to $5.00 per watt to have a solar-powered home, with Go Green Solar you can only pay $1.64 to $3.00 per watt. How is this possible? Go Green Solar eliminates intermediaries and provides all the necessary tools for self-installing solar panels. No need for an install crew or solar loan dealer fees. Go Green Solar offers panels starting at around $250 for a ZnShineSolar 405-watt mono 108-cell panel to $341 for a 550-watt bifacial mono 144-cell solar panel.

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How it works

Go Green Solar will include a custom solar design and plan set so that you will be guided every step of the way. You will have access to custom site-specific information with experienced tech support. All of this comes with organized packaging, system labels, and even financing. So, if you'd like to DIY your home solar storage system but aren't really an expert, this could be the perfect fit for you.

Permit guarantee

If you purchase a complete solar plan from Go Green Solar, it includes all of the documents that you will need to get a solar permit - or you get your money back. That's a great guarantee.

Made in USA panels available

With six of the world's seven largest solar manufacturers based in China, and China producing 86% of the world's solar panels each year, it is tough to find solar panels made in the USA. Go Green Solar is one of the few companies on our list that has USA-made solar panels available.

Offers solar interconnection service

So, you've got your solar panels, and the system gets a permit, and it's all installed. Yay! It's not the end yet, though. You have to get your system interconnected with the utility grid so you can send extra power you generate into your local grid. Before that happens, the electric company will come over and inspect your system and approve it. Interconnection usually takes about a month. You can let Go Green Solar worry about the paperwork and all communication with the utility company via its Solar Interconnection Service. Rather than enduring daily delays due to bureaucratic procedures or feeling unnecessary stress, you could dedicate that month to something much more fun (like completing the post-apocalyptic dystopian novella you've been longing to begin).

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What customers think

Customers online are overall pretty happy with Go Green Solar. One customer had installed four solar projects in his home, all successfully completed using Go Green Solar. Another happy customer spent only half as much as the quotes she'd been given to go solar with her home - and in less time than others would have gotten it done. Other customers praise the high quality of the materials and the great customer support. One reviewer warned that Go Green Solar offers most support via email, but everything still worked out. Customers are more than happy to recommend the company to friends and family, and many are repeat customers.

Quality customer service and products that shine

Go Green Solar is an innovator that prides itself on quality customer service and quality products. Go Green Solar consistently attracts repeat customers and offers great plans and services that eliminate red tape headaches, making it a top recommendation for solar panels. You'd probably regret not checking out Go Green Solar, especially with all the ways you can save on solar storage solutions.

Santan Solar Review 4 Star Rating

Santan Solar

4 Star Rating
  • One-year warranty for solar panels
  • Solar panels starting from $40
  • Offers an affiliate and a rewards program
  • Offers assistance in sizing your project
  • New, used, refurbished, repaired and overstock solar panels for great prices

Bob and Minnie Lawrence started out refurbishing and repairing electronic items for resale. In 2018, they noticed a demand for used solar panels. They were hoping to recycle them, but they realized as they examined the solar panels that they still worked. They began to refurbish these used solar panels, and now they have two locations: the home location in Arizona and a second location in Savannah, Georgia.

Innovation and hard work equal substantial savings for you

Santan Solar's innovative approach of offering not just new solar panels but also giving new life to old solar panels by refurbishing them means really great savings for you. Sure, they might not be the prettiest panels in the bunch - but most of them have 20 or more years left on them. With panels starting as low as around $40 for a 250-watt cracked vinyl panel that is still operational to full pallets, you can purchase for under $5,000 - it could help a DIYer save a lot of money on their solar storage project.

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Shipping or pickup

Shipping is available, but it runs pretty high. This is because the majority of solar panels are about the size of a door and must be shipped on pallets. Santan has a whole page on the website dedicated to offering ways you can save money on this shipping. One obvious way to save is to go pick up the solar panels if you live near their locations. Other ways are to meet the truck at a terminal rather than at your residence, order a whole truckload (maybe go in on a big buy with your neighbors), or have the order sent to a business rather than a residential address. While we are uncertain if these options would be feasible for most customers, this approach demonstrates Santan Solar's willingness to think creatively and their dedication to finding cost-saving solutions.

Transparency is awesome

Santan not only opens for scheduled pickups, but they keep hours for walk-ins as well. It's great that not only can locals save money by going to the warehouse, but that any prospective customer can come by and check it out.

Everything in one place

These used solar panels are not the only ones you can grab online from Santan. They also sell kits and accessories so you can shop for the things you need all in one place. From racking and mounting to inverters and so much more, you can find what you need. Santan will also help you size your project if you need help.

One-year warranty

When you are buying refurbished equipment, a warranty helps to engender trust. Santan offers a one-year warranty, part of which states: "Santan Solar has a one-year replacement/repair warranty on the solar equipment we sell. Santan Solar warranties products against manufacturer defects in materials and workmanship. Products damaged due to faulty installation, improper procedures, or electrical surges will not be eligible for warranty coverage.” They also state that the customer must provide adequate packaging with an RMA in order to be valid for refunds. It is at the discretion of Santan whether they will refund or replace your defective item. Any non-branded solar panels will be covered by the original manufacturer's warranty, which will be determined at the time of purchase. Customers pay for return shipping fees.

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Overwhelmingly positive reviews

We scoured the web and found a few customer complaints, but it is clear that Santan Solar responds and resolves challenges and issues. Santan Solar gets an "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau and high praise from DIY solar forum members. Many complaints stemmed from the customer not understanding the sales process for refurbished solar panels. For example, one customer was upset because used solar panels cannot be interconnected with public utility companies. Our reading suggests that Santan is eager to address issues and find solutions that prioritize the customer's needs. At the price these panels are offered, most people can't believe how well they've been refurbished, and still others are surprised at how much wattage they can produce.

A great pick for DIYers interested in truly off-grid projects

We think Santan Solar is a great pick for the DIYer with projects that don't need to be tied into the grid. We love the innovation here and the great customer service. We are happy to recommend Santan Solar as a good alternative for DIYers. Due to the high price of shipping and the fact that they can't be tied to the grid, these solar panels didn't achieve a perfect rating, but they came really close. Santan Solar is a company that is definitely worth looking at, especially if you find that you have a tight budget.

Renogy Review 4 Star Rating

Renogy

4 Star Rating
  • Prices begin at around $60
  • Easy installation
  • Offers discounts
  • Great for DIYers
  • 25-year warranty for most solar panels
  • Tedlar Polyester Tedlar (TPT) back sheets for extra endurance

Renogy began as a project of now CEO Yi Li while she was working on her Ph.D. at Louisiana State University. Renogy started out on online marketplaces but eventually grew to being sold on Renogy's own website. It continues to grow today, and you can find everything you need in one place to get off the grid, including solar panels.

Solar panels at great prices for the quality

Renogy has been around since 2010, and customers have history with purchasing from this company. It's generally agreed that Renogy is a favorite brand of solar panels among solar power enthusiasts because they have shown to be reliable. Solar panels run from a 5-watt trickle charger at $24.99 to a 2500-watt kit for about $7,000; you'll find a good price at Renogy.

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Website specials available

At the time of this review, we noticed that you can get a free mounting kit with the purchase of selected panels over 300 watts. There was also a special sale going on where many items were priced at 56% off.

Ambassador program for DIY enthusiasts

Renogy has two "extras” for people who really love their products: the Ambassador and Collaborator programs. Ambassadors are a specially chosen group of advanced, skilled, off-grid DIY enthusiasts. Benefits of being an ambassador include long-term sponsorship, first access to product reviews, and launched and brand-sponsored trips, events, and seminars. Collaborators help test solutions and inspire the off-grid community, and benefits include paid content collaboration, product reviews, and first access to the newest launches.

Special discounts available too

You don't have to be an influencer to get a discount at Renogy. Renogy also offers a 7% discount to students, graduates, healthcare workers, first responders, teachers, military personnel, parents, low-income households, people with disabilities, and charity workers. We were pretty impressed with this list as an example of how Renogy gives back to those who serve others while also offering a discount to the underserved.

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Customer reviews are mostly positive

Most customers have been very happy with their purchases at Renogy. Many are also repeat customers, citing their track record with Renogy as being a 5-star experience every time. Customers state that Renogy delivers good customer service and even say that this solar panel company is an example of what customer service should be everywhere. Even when problems arise in shipping, Renogy works hard to find a positive resolution to these kinds of problems. They get an "A-” at the Better Business Bureau and are responsive to customer complaints.

A recommended pick

With a great website to navigate and good customer reviews, along with the great prices and a nice warranty, Renogy rates higher than average with us. We think you'll love your shopping experience with Renogy and recommend them as a very good choice when looking for solar panels.

Lowe's Review 3.5 Star Rating

Lowe's

3.5 Star Rating
  • Offers a wide range of brands and price points
  • Prices start at $19.77 for a 1-watt panel
  • Sign up online for installation services
  • You can choose to pick it up from the store or have it delivered
  • "A+” rating from Better Business Bureau

Lowe's is a home improvement warehouse that can provide you with all the materials to renovate, remodel, or upgrade your home. Lowe's knows that one upgrade people are interested in is solar panels. They offer a selection of solar panels in every price point - and from all the most well-known brands in the solar panel industry.

See what more people are buying at a glance

Lowe's has the advantage of lots of staff to operate and build a really great website. We really loved the search filters, layout, and the simplicity of the user experience. One thing that is nice with an online giant is the sheer number of customers that have previously purchased from Lowe's. When you are looking for solar panels and you see "Bestseller” tagged on a product, you know that it wasn't just a handful of people who were buying this particular panel but lots of people from all over.

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Pricing is a little higher than other companies

While pricing is a little higher than some other companies we've reviewed, Lowe's does offer free shipping and/or delivery on some solar panels. You can get a 2-watt solar panel for under $20 or a set of 10 Renogy 320-watt solar panels for around $3250. Lowe's also offers in-house financing through a Lowe's credit card.

A great place to compare brands

Although Lowe's only offers around 30 choices for solar panels on its website, it's nice to see Lowe's selling a diverse group of brands of solar panels. This makes Lowe's a great place to go to compare those different brands. You can contrast Renogy, EcoFlow, and Westinghouse all in one place - some of which you'll find reviewed separately here.

Free delivery

Ordering solar panels online can be frustrating when you check out and the end total has tacked on some pretty hefty shipping fees. Not so with Lowe's. Out of their selection at the time of this review, 81 products were available for free delivery. There are even options for expedited delivery (for an additional fee).

Lowe's now can offer installation

Lowe's has now partnered with a third-party company to offer professional installation of your solar panels, which you can set up online through an easy-to-fill-out form. You just complete the information to book a consultation with one of their solar experts. We saw a few reviews that customers weren't happy with the aggressive sales tactics of the installation company in store, but online, we don't have to worry about that particular complaint.

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Gets an "A+” from the BBB

Lowe's has been around for over 100 years - and you don't have that kind of success without knowing a little bit about customer service. Lowe's responds to customers when they have issues and has earned an "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau. Some customers have been disappointed with the slow response of customer service when dealing with delayed shipments and customers who are not happy with Lowe's attempts at resolution (usually with regard to missing shipments or attempts to cancel).

An above-average choice

We think Lowe's is an above-average pick for finding solar panels. It would have been an even better pick if not for the concerns we had regarding customer service falling short when deliveries are delayed or go missing. But, with the conveniences that come with in-store pickup of online orders and local returns, Lowe's deserves a look when you're shopping for solar panels.

Home Depot Review 3 Star Rating

Home Depot

3 Star Rating
  • Free ship-to-store option
  • Military discount
  • Good prices
  • In-home consultations available
  • Sales and coupons available

Home Depot was founded in 1978 by Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank. Today, it's the world's largest home improvement retailer. With more than 2,300 stores across North America, there is probably a store not too far from you. Home Depot launched their online shopping experience in 2000, back when floppy disks were still a thing. They've been online for a long time, and their website is very user-friendly.

Good choices available, though limited

Though choices are limited, Home Depot has done a good job of curating a nice collection of higher-rated solar panels. So, although the solar panel selection is mostly relegated to portable or RV-type panels, at least they are from some of the better-known brands.

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Free ship-to-store option

One reason to like purchasing from Home Depot online is that you get to order your solar panels at home and pick them up, all ready to go, at your local Home Depot or get them delivered straight to your door - in some cases for free. Solar panels are notoriously expensive to ship, so this will save you some money.

Competitive prices

Overall, Home Depot offers some pretty competitive pricing; that, plus the free shipping, starts to make this choice look quite good. From $15 for a 5-watt trickle charge solar panel to a Renogy eight-piece 320-watt panel set for an RV, house, or shed priced at around $2,400, Home Depot offers a good value.

Discounts available

Home Depot offers a 10% military discount on online purchases of many products. This discount is available to all US veterans, active-duty service members, and spouses.

Sales and coupons

Many people who've purchased solar panels from Home Depot also waited for sales, which are offered frequently here. For example, at the time of this review, Home Depot was offering around 15% off some of its solar panels with no coupon needed. Always be on the lookout for a sale or coupon - you'll probably find one.

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Consultations for installation available

While you are browsing the solar panel selection, you can also schedule an in-home consultation regarding solar panel installation. This is great if you want to get a real-life estimate of how much it will cost to put solar in your home or another place (like an RV).

Low in-store inventory

Home Depot usually lists a little less than 100 choices in solar panels available for purchase, but when you click on "In Store Availability,” it comes up, at least in our area, with only one EcoFlow solar panel. If you order from Home Depot online, you are likely to have to wait a little while before the panels get there. We wish Home Depot would manage expectations better for their customers, as many complain of delayed deliveries, but if you are purchasing solar panels that are not in the store, be prepared for it to take a few weeks.

Average choice

In terms of solar panels, Home Depot is a moderately priced option. Lots of positives are leveled by the lack of selection and some of the customer reviews regarding shipping. If you can find the panels you want on the website, along with a coupon or a discount that can be applied, this choice will save you money on shipping - just remember shipping may take a very long time.

A1 Solar Store Review 3 Star Rating

A1 Solar Store

3 Star Rating
  • Ready-made systems and accessories available
  • Free pickup at one of 40+ fulfillment centers
  • Free shipping on selected products
  • Prices are good
  • Easy-to-use website

Alexey Kruglove started Florida-based A1 Solar Store in 2017 to make solar panels available to the average consumer and to educate people about solar energy. Since he started the company, he has written many articles and guides about solar energy.

Very good prices

A1 Solar Store is known for its competitive pricing - most customers are really happy with the savings they experience from shopping at A1 Solar Store's clearance, discounts, and whole pallet deals. "Solarheads” have been known to recommend A1 Solar to friends and family who are looking to set up solar panels as an energy storage solution. You can get a pallet of JA Solar 500-watt bifacial panels with 144 cells for $0.37 per watt. The priciest option for solar panels that was available in our area was priced at $223 but was on sale for $186 - for a 430-watt Jinko solar panel with 108 cells.

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Easy-to-navigate website

A1 Solar Store upgraded their website, and now it's really easy to navigate. The filtering system is really helpful - lots of criteria make it easy to find what inventory is located near you or has the ability to ship to you. You can set up a price range, power output, brand, number of cells, whether or not the panel is compatible with EcoFlow, and whether or not it's made in the USA. A1 Solar Store lists your results by category: clearance, 400-watt panels, US-made, wholesale, commercial, and bestsellers.

Free shipping on 12 or more items

A1 Solar Store ships through freight carriers like XPO, FedEx, ODFL, and R&L to get your order to you as soon as possible. All of the solar panels are shipped for curbside delivery, which means generally that they will deliver a pallet to the end of your driveway. They aren't responsible for bringing the pallet up your driveway or on your property, and you will have to get on the truck and unload it yourself from the height of the truck. If you need them to lower your pallet off the truck, you will need to pay an additional $99. You can get free shipping on some panels when you purchase more than 12 items.

Free shipping on select items

A1 Solar also offers to ship batteries, inverters, charge controllers, and add-ons with FedEx Ground free of charge. However, the risk in small orders is that they are more easily damaged. Just remember not to sign the delivery slip until you've inspected all of your panels - you can't make a claim easily if you don't note damages on the bill of lading.

Wire transfers or Zelle preferred

We have read several reports that customers were uncomfortable with A1 Solar's checkout process. They complained that payment methods like PayPal or credit card were not able to process, thus leaving customers with the option of wire transfer or Zelle. The problem with these forms of payment is that it is like cash - you can't get it back if there is a problem with non-delivery or wanting to receive a refund. Be aware that A1 Solar tacks on a credit card processing fee if you can get that payment option to work.

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Really invasive requests for personal information

We don't feel comfortable with these payment methods, especially coupled with the fact that you are then required to send a photo of your driver's license and a selfie photo along with other sensitive data. One customer explained how they felt about this process: "This is more invasive than opening up an online Bitcoin trading account... all for a basic cash-and-carry online merchandise transaction. No way am I going to arm some random sketchy online retailer with that kind of info. Want my social and mother's maiden too?” We also noticed that in order to get to the shopping, we had to add our email address to see pricing and shipping.

Great value, but big security concerns

We loved the prices and the website layout - and we were happy to see that most customers really had a nice experience with A1 Solar Store. However, their response to issues such as damaged panels, delays, or no-shows appears to be inconsistent. We would have rated them higher if not for the invasive data collection and reviews mentioning problems with payments if they aren't Zelle or wire transfers.

Allpowers Review 2.5 Star Rating

Allpowers

2.5 Star Rating
  • Solar panels starting at around $40
  • Free shipping
  • Frequent promotions
  • Pay over time with Affirm
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Allpowers, based in Guangzhou, China, was founded in 2008, specializing in the design, development, and production of portable solar energy products. Allpowers products can be found in 30 countries. The solar panels you will find at Allpowers are portable and different from traditional solar kit systems you might set up permanently as part of your home solar power storage solutions.

Pricing is very competitive

Allpowers carries solar panels starting at $39.99 for a foldable mini panel. The company also offers flexible solar panels with a 23% conversion rate starting at $119.99 for 100 watts. Foldable solar panels start at $69.99 for the Allpowers Solar Panel Built-in 10,000mAh Battery, at 5 volts and 21 watts.

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Sales and discounts offered

Allpowers almost always has a discount, coupon, or other promotion going on. At the time of this review, customers could receive up to 48% off in storewide sales and another additional 8% for signing up for the newsletter. If you pay full price at Allpowers, you are doing it wrong. You don't have to wait long to get a deal on the solar panels you're looking for. In addition, you can pay over time when you choose to pay through Affirm at checkout.

Portability for on-the-go power

The solar panels available at Allpowers are portable, which means they are not designed to go on the roof of a house but with you on your camping trips and tailgating events, or as backup power for electronics and other devices - or even some appliances during a power outage.

Free shipping

Allpowers, unlike other solar panel companies, offers free shipping from a local warehouse and no tax, usually within 2 days of placing an order. They state that you can expect to receive your solar panels within 3-5 days, but you should be aware that some customers did not receive their panels within that timeframe. In fact, some customers received their panels much later.

Limited support, hard to return

Free shipping is a nice perk, but if you encounter issues with products that are defective or damaged in the shipping process, the only way to contact Allpowers is through an email. While some customers have had success getting a replacement product within the first 30 days, others have complained that Allpowers takes a very, very long time to communicate. We've also seen some reviews that indicate Allpowers products are not long-lasting and that returns involve exorbitant shipping fees.

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Not for everyone

Portable solar panels are very innovative and a great solution for so many people who need power in remote areas. That being said, most people looking for solar panels are usually looking for a way to get off-grid in a bigger way, and Allpowers, while selling portable solar panels, doesn't sell solar kits or home storage solutions.

Not quite there

With mixed reviews and a smaller selection than other companies, along with issues regarding reliability over a long period of time, Allpowers doesn't quite make an average ranking here. If you're looking for portable solar panels, you may want to visit this site to research prices, but otherwise, Allpowers is not quite there yet.

Walmart Review 2 Star Rating

Walmart

2 Star Rating
  • Local and delivery options available
  • One of the biggest selections of solar panels online
  • Sales and discounts offered
  • Panels start at around $6

Walmart is a household name - whether you are rushing to get a last-minute snack for soccer or remodeling your house, Walmart sells it. Walmart also sells solar panels and gives you an extremely robust selection of panels and kits, from better-known names to some lesser-known manufacturers, through its third-party seller marketplace online.

Large selection and low prices

With well over 200 different solar power products available, Walmart has one of the larger selections of solar panels for purchase. While most of their offerings fall into the portable category, there are some solar starter kits for off-grid living and other options if you need solar panels for a roof. Walmart's pricing is very low - you can get a 5-watt panel with a cooling fan for around $6 on clearance, all the way up to a $2,200 Renogy Bifacial 6-pack of 450-watt monocrystalline solar panels - without paying exorbitant shipping fees.

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Local pickup and delivery

Pretty much anywhere in the United States, you can find a Walmart, which makes it a really convenient choice when purchasing solar panels. You can have Walmart deliver your panels to your door, or in some cases, you can go to the store and pick them up.

Customers concerned with quality

Customers have expressed concerns about the quality of the solar panels available on Walmart's website. This is mostly from third-party vendors - there are some good ones like Renogy. The vendors seem to be a mixed bag in terms of quality - many people complained that the advertised voltage did not match what they were able to get at home. Others were concerned about charging time being very slow.

Credit card holds and processing

Walmart delivery online will put a temporary hold on your credit card when you shop there. Be aware that it can take up to 10 days for the hold to be removed. We are concerned that customers consistently complained about delayed shipments - customers called to cancel the orders as they wouldn't arrive on time - and Walmart wouldn't refund the money or allow a cancellation or refund.

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Not a great pick

Walmart has always been about low prices. However, low prices aren't that great of a choice if quality is compromised. While we like the robust selection of solar panels here, we're worried that there is a lack of quality control in the selections available. We are also concerned that customers have experienced extra-long money holds and refusals from customer service to give refunds. So, while we appreciate the low prices, we can't recommend Walmart as a good pick unless the lowest prices are your only priority.

Eco-worthy Review 1 Star Rating

Eco-worthy

1 Star Rating
  • Sells parts and accessories for solar energy
  • Rewards programs
  • Sales and discounts offered consistently
  • Solar panels starting at around $35

Eco-worthy, owned by Xiamen Eco-Sources Technology Co. Ltd., was established in 2007. This company produces lithium batteries and solar products. Eco-worthy offers solar panels and kits, as well as generators, mounting brackets, accessories, inverters, and more.

Average prices

Eco-worthy sells an upgraded 10-watt 12V solar panel trickle charger kit for $33.99, and solar panels range from around $65 to $139.99 for a Bifacial 195-watt 12-volt monocrystalline solar panel. They offer discounts and specials consistently, so it pays to wait for a sale. For example, at the time of this review, there were several discounts available, including one in which you could get up to $80 off your purchase. There was also a limited-time offer that included double reward points.

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Everything you need at one place

Eco-worthy doesn't just sell you solar panels. They also sell inverters, solar panel kits, mounting brackets, charge controllers, and other cables and wires necessary for setting up a solar energy storage solution.

Rewards program

Eco-worthy offers a rewards program with points earned based on tiers of spending. To join, you fill out a form to create an account, and then you start earning rewards points to go toward your next purchase. You can get points for subscribing to the Eco-worthy newsletter, signing up for the program, and placing an order with the company. You can become a VIP when you spend $200 or more. If you spend $2,500, you will become a Silver VIP, and when you spend $4,000, you become a Gold VIP, which awards you a $15 discount on all orders of $500 or more.

30-day return policy; customer pays shipping fees

Eco-worthy has a 14-day DOA product guarantee that states if you receive an item that is damaged, different from what you ordered, or not working, you can get an RMA within 14 days, and if you need a replacement, Eco-worthy will arrange for the return of the defective items. Once the part has been received and inspected, they will ship out the replacement within 3 working days. You have to return the product in its original packing; otherwise, the guarantee is void. They also offer a 30-day return window for any reason. You will get a refund or a credit to your account as long as it is returned in new and resalable condition with the original blank warranty cards, manuals, and accessories. Eco-worthy will not pay for return shipping unless the product was damaged, defective, or incorrect. Shipping fees are very expensive, as products will be returned to China, not a local warehouse.

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Customers report problems with returns and missing items

Customers report that their orders arrive with missing items. One customer was missing the inverter, with Eco-worthy saying it was out of stock. There was no other notification and no advanced warning that they weren't getting the inverter. When the customer tried to call, he couldn't get through, and emails were not responded to. In addition, error codes kept occurring. This is not a one-off experience: many people experienced the same exact thing, and some never got their out-of-stock items. Other buyers experienced products that stopped working after a very short time, with no response from Eco-worthy's customer service.

"F” rating at Better Business Bureau, and we agree

Eco-worthy received an "F” rating from the Better Business Bureau, and we have to agree with that. Eco-worthy seems to have good prices, but their returns are very difficult, and it is a terrible experience overall to have to deal with Eco-worthy's subpar customer service. With missing shipments and defective parts, we can't recommend Eco-worthy as a place to shop for solar panels.

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Continued from above...

There are four common types of solar panels: monocrystalline, which are made from a single source of silicon; polycrystalline, which are made up of silicon pieces all melted together; thin-film solar panels, which are somewhat flexible and lightweight; and PERC panels, which use silicon backing to make them more efficient. Monocrystalline PERC panels will be your most efficient choice, but also your most expensive.

The majority of solar panels available in the United States come from China. This is important to remember when shopping for solar panels, especially if you are doing your solar project on your own and not through an installation service. Most solar panel companies often run low on stock, and it takes a bit of time for shipping, as the panels come from the other side of the globe.

There are some solar panel companies that offer panels made in the United States; however, they are generally going to be more expensive than their Chinese-made and -assembled counterparts.

At this point, things may seem pretty daunting to the uninitiated, but we're here to help. Here are some questions to ask yourself as you consider which solar panel company you should choose:

  • Installation. Are you pretty well-versed in setting up solar storage systems, or are you an overly confident Clark Griswold type? Maybe you admit that you know nothing but want to be more environmentally conscious? Depending on your level of expertise, you may want to go with a company that takes care of the installation of the system. If you are confident but still desire some support, there are companies that also provide that service.
  • Power needed. If you are only looking for a few portable solar panels to take with you on a camping trip or to set up for an RV, you don't need to worry about installation, but you might want to stick with a company that also offers batteries or solar generators.
  • Price. What is your price range? If you have a tight budget, you may want to look at a company that sells refurbished solar panels at a steep discount. You can also look at bargain-priced companies, but beware of location. If the company is located overseas, it means that in the event of a defective panel, you will be spending a lot of money on shipping fees so they can replace or repair it.

To assist you in finding the best solar panels for your needs, Top Consumer Reviews has curated and ranked a list of companies for you to shop from. We're confident that this list will make your solar panel shopping experience brighter!

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Solar Panel FAQ

A solar panel is designed to convert sunlight into electricity. It's made up of silicone, glass, and a set of wires.
Sunshine releases tiny particles of energy called photons. Your solar panel collects these photons, and an inverter changes the current so it can be used to power your home.
Solar panels are low maintenance, increase your property value, save you money on your electric bills, and can provide you with energy independence.
There are monocrystalline ones, which are the most efficient and take up the least space. There are also polycrystalline and thin-film solar panels.
How many you need depends on where you live, how large your home is, and how much electricity you use. This would also depend on how many watts each panel can collect.
Before you install, you will need to get permitted and have an engineer approve the design. Then you can install using a contractor or DIY with ties and mounting accessories.
Solar panels don't require a lot of maintenance, especially if they are on a tilt, since rain and snow can wash away any debris that collects on the panel.
Yes. Solar panels are pretty reliable and have a failure rate of only 0.05% annually, which means only 5 out of 10,000 solar panels fail each year. Solar panels can last up to 30 years.
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