Victron SmartSolar MPPT 250/70-Tr
#16 in MPPT solarFull review
For 48 V systems with long or high-voltage strings and a Victron GX device. Choose the 150/70 instead if 150 V is enough.
Amazon DRSA $536.35$536.35
The Victron SmartSolar MPPT 250/70-Tr is the better charge controller overall, rated 4.1 to 3.8. The Victron SmartSolar MPPT 250/70-Tr leads on value. The Morningstar GenStar MPPT 80 wins on features. The Victron SmartSolar MPPT 250/70-Tr costs $635.65 less ($536.35 vs $1,172).
Morningstar GenStar MPPT 80
#25 in MPPT solarFull review
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 $1,172$1,172
Prices 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 Victron SmartSolar MPPT 250/70-Tr for value ($7.66 per amp of charge current vs $14.65 per amp of charge current).
- Choose the Morningstar GenStar MPPT 80 for features (Bluetooth app, lithium profile, temperature sensor, 200 V PV input vs Bluetooth app, lithium profile, temperature sensor, 250 V PV input; no temperature sensor).
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 | Victron SmartSolar MPPT 250/70-Tr | Morningstar GenStar MPPT 80 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.1/5 | 3.8/5 |
| Value 35% | 31 $7.66 per amp of charge current | 0 $14.65 per amp of charge current |
| Features 25% | 90 Bluetooth app, lithium profile, temperature sensor, 250 V PV input; no temperature sensor | 100 Bluetooth app, lithium profile, temperature sensor, 200 V PV input |
| Efficiency 20% | 100 99% peak efficiency (maker rating) | 100 99% peak efficiency (maker rating) |
| Warranty 20% | 100 5-year warranty | 100 5-year warranty |
Specifications
| Victron SmartSolar MPPT 250/70-Tr | Morningstar GenStar MPPT 80 | |
|---|---|---|
| Charging | ||
| Type | MPPT solar charge controller | MPPT solar charge controller |
| Charge current | 70 A | 80 A |
| Battery voltage | 12/24/36/48 V | 12/24/48 V |
| Lithium profile | Yes | Yes |
| Custom profile | Yes | Yes |
| Temperature sensor | Optional extra | Included |
| Peak efficiency | 99% | 99% |
| Standby draw | 35 mA | 200 mA |
| Inputs | ||
| Max PV voltage (Voc) | 250 V | 200 V |
| Max PV power (12 V) | 1,000 W | 1,075 W |
| Max PV power (48 V) | 4,000 W | 4,300 W |
| Monitoring and build | ||
| Bluetooth | Built in | Built in |
| Display | No | Yes |
| Load output | No | Yes |
| Parallel units | Yes | - |
| Cooling | passive (no fan) | passive (fanless) |
| Water resistance | IP43 (electronics), IP22 (connection area) | IP20 |
| Dimensions | 185 x 250 x 95 mm | 360.4 x 222 x 170.2 mm (14.2 x 8.75 x 6.70 in) |
| Weight | 6.6 lb | 15.6 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Released | 2020-04 | 2023-06 |