For budget van and trailer builds that want alternator and solar charging in one cheap box. Specs are thin, so pick it on price rather than features.
Amazon $165.99The Redodo 12V 40A DC-DC with MPPT is the better charge controller overall, rated 3.3 to 2.4. The Redodo 12V 40A DC-DC with MPPT leads on value. The Redarc BCDC Classic 40 (BCDC1240D) wins on features. The Redodo 12V 40A DC-DC with MPPT costs $419.63 less ($165.99 vs $585.62).
For overlanders who want a tough, potted charger that can live in the engine bay and take solar too. Buyers mounting inside the cabin can get similar charging for much less.
Amazon $585.62Prices were last checked October 22, 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 Redodo 12V 40A DC-DC with MPPT for value ($4.15 per amp of charge current vs $14.64 per amp of charge current).
- Choose the Redarc BCDC Classic 40 (BCDC1240D) for features (lithium profile, smart-alternator support; no Bluetooth vs lithium profile; no Bluetooth).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every DC-DC charge controller; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Redodo 12V 40A DC-DC with MPPT | Redarc BCDC Classic 40 (BCDC1240D) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 2.4/5 |
| Value 35% | 90 $4.15 per amp of charge current | 0 $14.64 per amp of charge current |
| Features 25% | 35 lithium profile; no Bluetooth | 45 lithium profile, smart-alternator support; no Bluetooth |
| Efficiency 20% | 38 93% peak efficiency (maker rating) | 50 efficiency not published (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 20% | 25 2-year warranty | 25 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| Redodo 12V 40A DC-DC with MPPT | Redarc BCDC Classic 40 (BCDC1240D) | |
|---|---|---|
| Charging | ||
| Type | DC-DC charger with MPPT solar input | DC-DC charger with MPPT solar input |
| Charge current | 40 A | 40 A |
| Battery voltage | 12 V | 12 V |
| Lithium profile | Yes | Yes |
| Custom profile | - | No |
| Temperature sensor | No | No |
| Peak efficiency | 93% | - |
| Standby draw | - | 8 mA |
| Inputs | ||
| Max PV voltage (Voc) | - | 32 V |
| DC input range | - | 9 to 32 V |
| Smart alternator | - | Yes |
| Ignition sensing | - | Yes |
| Monitoring and build | ||
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Display | - | No |
| Load output | No | No |
| Cooling | - | passive (fan-free) |
| Dimensions | 5.83 x 1.89 x 7.44 in | 6.5 x 4.75 x 1.47 in |
| Weight | 2.4 lb | 2.2 lb |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
