The Victron Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-30 is the better DC-DC charger overall, rated 4.2 to 2.9. The Victron Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-30 leads on value, warranty and charge current. The Victron Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-30 costs $511.85 less ($177.15 vs $689).
For boats and vans that need an isolated charger from a brand with a long track record. Buyers who don’t need isolation get more current and efficiency from the Orion XS.
Amazon $177.15For 4x4 and truck builds that need the toughest sealed charger with Bluetooth. Buyers on a budget get more amps per dollar elsewhere.
Redarc $689Prices were last checked October 31, 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 up to 30 A DC-DC charger; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Victron Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-30 | Redarc BCDC Alpha 25 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.2/5 | 2.9/5 |
| Value 30% | 72 $5.91 per amp ($177.15, 30 A) | 0 $27.56 per amp ($689, 25 A) |
| Charge current 20% | 100 30 A | 75 25 A |
| Efficiency 10% | 0 87% peak efficiency | 50 efficiency not published (neutral score used) |
| Features 20% | 75 smart alternator support, Bluetooth, isolated | 75 solar input, smart alternator support, Bluetooth |
| Warranty 20% | 100 5-year warranty | 25 2-year warranty |
| Victron Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-30 | Redarc BCDC Alpha 25 | |
|---|---|---|
| Charging | ||
| Charge current | 30 A | 25 A |
| Input battery | 12 V | 12/24 V |
| Output battery | 12 V | 12 V |
| Battery types | - | AGM, gel, calcium, standard lead acid, LiFePO4, heated LiFePO4 |
| LiFePO4 profile | Yes | Yes |
| Smart alternator support | Yes | Yes |
| Peak efficiency | 87% | - |
| Isolated | Yes | - |
| Solar | ||
| Solar input | No | MPPT, up to 500 W |
| Max solar voltage | - | 48 V |
| Build | ||
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Ingress rating | IP43 | IP67/IP69K |
| Weight | 4 lb | 2 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | 2 years |
| Released | 2020-10 | - |
