Morningstar TriStar MPPT 45
#38 in MPPT solarFull review
For off-grid cabins and remote sites that want a proven, fanless 45 A controller. Most home and RV buyers get more for less elsewhere.
Amazon $558$558
The Morningstar TriStar MPPT 45 is the better charge controller overall, rated 3.2 to 2.9. The Morningstar TriStar MPPT 45 leads on efficiency and features. The Morningstar ProStar MPPT 40 costs $20 less ($538 vs $558).
Morningstar ProStar MPPT 40
#43 in MPPT solarFull review
For boats and remote installs where reliability matters more than price or app features. Most RV owners will get more for their money elsewhere.
Amazon $538$538
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 Morningstar TriStar MPPT 45 for efficiency (99% peak efficiency (maker rating) vs 98% peak efficiency (maker rating)) and features (temperature sensor, 150 V PV input; no Bluetooth vs temperature sensor; no Bluetooth).
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 TriStar MPPT 45 | Morningstar ProStar MPPT 40 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 2.9/5 |
| Value 35% | 0 $12.40 per amp of charge current | 0 $13.45 per amp of charge current |
| Features 25% | 30 temperature sensor, 150 V PV input; no Bluetooth | 22 temperature sensor; no Bluetooth |
| Efficiency 20% | 100 99% peak efficiency (maker rating) | 75 98% peak efficiency (maker rating) |
| Warranty 20% | 100 5-year warranty | 100 5-year warranty |
Specifications
| Morningstar TriStar MPPT 45 | Morningstar ProStar MPPT 40 | |
|---|---|---|
| Charging | ||
| Type | MPPT solar charge controller | MPPT solar charge controller |
| Charge current | 45 A | 40 A |
| Battery voltage | 12/24/36/48 V | 12/24 V |
| Lithium profile | No | - |
| Custom profile | Yes | Yes |
| Temperature sensor | Optional extra | Optional extra |
| Peak efficiency | 99% | 98% |
| Standby draw | 225 mA | - |
| Inputs | ||
| Max PV voltage (Voc) | 150 V | 120 V |
| Max PV power (12 V) | 600 W | 550 W |
| Max PV power (48 V) | 2,400 W | - |
| Monitoring and build | ||
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Display | No | No |
| Load output | No | Yes |
| Parallel units | - | Yes |
| Cooling | passive (no fans) | passive (aluminum heatsink) |
| Water resistance | IP20 (Type 1, indoor and vented) | IP20 |
| Dimensions | 29.1 x 13.0 x 14.2 cm (11.4 x 5.1 x 5.6 in) | 20 x 17 x 7 cm (7.9 x 6.7 x 2.8 in) |
| Weight | 9.2 lb | 3.1 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Released | 2009 | 2015-09 |