For off-grid homes and remote sites that want one controller with full networking, a load output and Morningstar’s fanless reliability. Hard to justify for a simple RV or cabin system.
Amazon $1,236 NAZ Solar Electric $1,172The Morningstar GenStar MPPT 80 is the better charge controller overall, rated 3.8 to 3.1. The Morningstar GenStar MPPT 80 leads on features. The MidNite Classic 200-SL wins on value. The MidNite Classic 200-SL costs $523 less ($649 vs $1,172).
For solar-only off-grid systems that want MidNite’s proven 200 V Classic for less money and can live without Ethernet and arc-fault protection.
Amazon $649Prices 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.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Morningstar GenStar MPPT 80 for features (Bluetooth app, lithium profile, temperature sensor, 200 V PV input vs temperature sensor, 200 V PV input; no Bluetooth).
- Choose the MidNite Classic 200-SL for value ($8.22 per amp of charge current vs $14.65 per amp of charge current).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every MPPT solar charge controller; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Morningstar GenStar MPPT 80 | MidNite Classic 200-SL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 3.1/5 |
| Value 35% | 0 $14.65 per amp of charge current | 24 $8.22 per amp of charge current |
| Features 25% | 100 Bluetooth app, lithium profile, temperature sensor, 200 V PV input | 30 temperature sensor, 200 V PV input; no Bluetooth |
| Efficiency 20% | 100 99% peak efficiency (maker rating) | 50 efficiency not published (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 20% | 100 5-year warranty | 100 5-year warranty |
Specifications
| Morningstar GenStar MPPT 80 | MidNite Classic 200-SL | |
|---|---|---|
| Charging | ||
| Type | MPPT solar charge controller | MPPT solar charge controller |
| Charge current | 80 A | 79 A |
| Battery voltage | 12/24/48 V | 12/24/36/48/60/72 V |
| Lithium profile | Yes | No |
| Custom profile | Yes | Yes |
| Temperature sensor | Included | Optional extra |
| Peak efficiency | 99% | - |
| Standby draw | 200 mA | - |
| Inputs | ||
| Max PV voltage (Voc) | 200 V | 200 V |
| Max PV power (12 V) | 1,075 W | 1,137 W |
| Max PV power (48 V) | 4,300 W | 4,550 W |
| Monitoring and build | ||
| Bluetooth | Built in | No |
| Display | Yes | Yes |
| Load output | Yes | No |
| Parallel units | - | Yes |
| Cooling | passive (fanless) | fan |
| Water resistance | IP20 | Type 1 (indoor) |
| Dimensions | 360.4 x 222 x 170.2 mm (14.2 x 8.75 x 6.70 in) | 378 x 151 x 102 mm (14.87 x 5.95 x 4.00 in) |
| Weight | 15.6 lb | - |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Released | 2023-06 | - |
