Victron SmartSolar MPPT 250/85-Tr
#10 in MPPT solarFull review
For big 48 V arrays wired in long high-voltage strings. Worth it over the 150/85 only if the 250 V input saves real cable cost.
Amazon Inverters R Us $576.30$576.30
The Victron SmartSolar MPPT 250/85-Tr is the better charge controller overall, rated 4.2 to 3.6. The Victron SmartSolar MPPT 250/85-Tr leads on features and efficiency. The OutBack FLEXmax 80 costs $48.31 less ($527.99 vs $576.30).
OutBack FLEXmax 80
#29 in MPPT solarFull review
For off-grid homes and cabins on 24 or 48 V, especially those built around OutBack inverters. A proven 80 A controller at a fair price.
NAZ Solar Electric $527.99$527.99
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 250/85-Tr for features (Bluetooth app, lithium profile, temperature sensor, 250 V PV input; no temperature sensor vs temperature sensor, 150 V PV input; no Bluetooth) and efficiency (99% peak efficiency (maker rating) vs 98.4% peak efficiency (maker rating)).
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 250/85-Tr | OutBack FLEXmax 80 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.2/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Value 35% | 43 $6.78 per amp of charge current | 45 $6.60 per amp of charge current |
| Features 25% | 90 Bluetooth app, lithium profile, temperature sensor, 250 V PV input; no temperature sensor | 30 temperature sensor, 150 V PV input; no Bluetooth |
| Efficiency 20% | 100 99% peak efficiency (maker rating) | 86 98.4% peak efficiency (maker rating) |
| Warranty 20% | 100 5-year warranty | 100 5-year warranty |
Specifications
| Victron SmartSolar MPPT 250/85-Tr | OutBack FLEXmax 80 | |
|---|---|---|
| Charging | ||
| Type | MPPT solar charge controller | MPPT solar charge controller |
| Charge current | 85 A | 80 A |
| Battery voltage | 12/24/36/48 V | 12/24/36/48/60 V |
| Lithium profile | Yes | - |
| Custom profile | Yes | Yes |
| Temperature sensor | Optional extra | Optional extra |
| Peak efficiency | 99% | 98.4% |
| Standby draw | 35 mA | 83 mA |
| Inputs | ||
| Max PV voltage (Voc) | 250 V | 150 V |
| Max PV power (12 V) | 1,200 W | 1,000 W |
| Max PV power (48 V) | 4,900 W | 4,000 W |
| Monitoring and build | ||
| Bluetooth | Built in | No |
| Display | No | Yes |
| Load output | No | No |
| Parallel units | Yes | - |
| Cooling | passive (no fan) | fan (active cooling) |
| Water resistance | IP43 (electronics), IP22 (connection area) | Indoor Type 1 |
| Dimensions | 216 x 295 x 103 mm | 41.3 x 14.6 x 11.4 cm (16.25 x 5.75 x 4.5 in) |
| Weight | 9.9 lb | 12.2 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Released | 2020-04 | 2008-07 |