The Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/20-48V rates 4.3 among MPPT solar charge controllers; the CTEK D250SE rates 2.4 among DC-DC ones. The Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/20-48V costs $306.80 less ($93.50 vs $400.30).
For small 48 V systems with one or two strings of panels, such as a shed, pump or backup bank. A dependable, inexpensive Victron with the app and a five-year warranty.
Amazon $96.31 DRSA $93.50For owners of small lead-acid or lithium banks who want a sealed, set-and-forget charger that also keeps the starter battery topped up. Bigger lithium banks need a higher-current unit.
Amazon $400.30Prices were last checked October 24, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
These two sit in different type classes (MPPT solar and DC-DC), and each is scored against the reference points for its own class, so a rating says how well each does among its own type peers. How we rank explains each factor.
| Factor weight | Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/20-48V | CTEK D250SE |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.3/5 | 2.4/5 |
| Value 35% | 71 $4.67 per amp of charge current | 0 $20.02 per amp of charge current |
| Features 25% | 77 Bluetooth app, lithium profile, temperature sensor; no temperature sensor | 45 lithium profile, smart-alternator support; no Bluetooth |
| Efficiency 20% | 75 98% peak efficiency (maker rating) | 50 efficiency not published (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 20% | 100 5-year warranty | 25 2-year warranty |
| Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/20-48V | CTEK D250SE | |
|---|---|---|
| Charging | ||
| Type | MPPT solar charge controller | DC-DC charger with MPPT solar input |
| Charge current | 20 A | 20 A |
| Battery voltage | 12/24/36/48 V | 12 V |
| Lithium profile | Yes | Yes |
| Custom profile | Yes | No |
| Temperature sensor | Optional extra | No |
| Peak efficiency | 98% | - |
| Standby draw | 10 mA | - |
| Inputs | ||
| Max PV voltage (Voc) | 100 V | - |
| Max PV power (12 V) | 290 W | - |
| Max PV power (48 V) | 1,160 W | - |
| DC input range | - | 11.5 to 23 V |
| Smart alternator | - | Yes |
| Monitoring and build | ||
| Bluetooth | Built in | No |
| Display | No | - |
| Load output | Yes | No |
| Parallel units | Yes | - |
| Cooling | passive (no fan) | - |
| Water resistance | IP43 (electronics), IP22 (connection area) | IP65 |
| Dimensions | 100 x 131 x 60 mm | 192 x 110 x 65 mm |
| Weight | 1.4 lb | 1.5 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | 2 years |
| Released | - | 2021-03 |
