The Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/50 is the better charge controller overall, rated 4.4 to 3.2. The Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/50 leads on value and features. The Morningstar TriStar MPPT 45 wins on efficiency. The Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/50 costs $364.20 less ($193.80 vs $558).
For RV and van owners running 500-700 W of panels on 12 V or about 1,400 W on 24 V. It has the same app and warranty as the smaller Victrons at a low cost per amp.
Amazon DRSA $193.80For 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 $558Prices 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.
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 100/50 | Morningstar TriStar MPPT 45 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.4/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Value 35% | 82 $3.88 per amp of charge current | 0 $12.40 per amp of charge current |
| Features 25% | 77 Bluetooth app, lithium profile, temperature sensor; no temperature sensor | 30 temperature sensor, 150 V PV input; no Bluetooth |
| Efficiency 20% | 75 98% peak efficiency (maker rating) | 100 99% peak efficiency (maker rating) |
| Warranty 20% | 100 5-year warranty | 100 5-year warranty |
| Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/50 | Morningstar TriStar MPPT 45 | |
|---|---|---|
| Charging | ||
| Type | MPPT solar charge controller | MPPT solar charge controller |
| Charge current | 50 A | 45 A |
| Battery voltage | 12/24 V | 12/24/36/48 V |
| Lithium profile | Yes | No |
| Custom profile | Yes | Yes |
| Temperature sensor | Optional extra | Optional extra |
| Peak efficiency | 98% | 99% |
| Standby draw | 30 mA | 225 mA |
| Inputs | ||
| Max PV voltage (Voc) | 100 V | 150 V |
| Max PV power (12 V) | 700 W | 600 W |
| Max PV power (48 V) | - | 2,400 W |
| Monitoring and build | ||
| Bluetooth | Built in | No |
| Display | No | No |
| Load output | No | No |
| Parallel units | Yes | - |
| Cooling | - | passive (no fans) |
| Water resistance | IP43 (electronics), IP22 (connection area) | IP20 (Type 1, indoor and vented) |
| Dimensions | 130 x 186 x 70 mm | 29.1 x 13.0 x 14.2 cm (11.4 x 5.1 x 5.6 in) |
| Weight | 2.9 lb | 9.2 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Released | 2017-08 | 2009 |
