If you are looking for the best PWM Solar Charge Controller then I’ll assume you have chosen a PWM charge controller rather than the more popular MPPT solar charge option, and already understand the differences.
Before you make the final purchase, review the differences in the charge controller types one more time.
In this article, I review the PWM Charge Controllers I think are currently some of the best options available. I’ll provide a comparison chart so you can narrow down your choices, and then I have included an overview of each charger.
Finally, in the reviews below I have reviewed 20A charge controllers. Each of these brands makes quality-made charge controllers in different amperage and types (PWM vs MPPT).
Table of Contents
When You Should Use a PWM Charge Controller
- A PWM charge controller should be used for smaller systems. It is not intended for larger systems with complex systems.
- If price is an issue, and you have a small system, this is a good charger to consider. It is less expensive than MPPT chargers.
- If you are charging a 12v battery then use a PWM charger with solar panels with a maximum power voltage (Vmp) of up to 18V.
HQST 20 Amp PWM Solar Charge Controller
This multi-functional and intelligent 20A solar charge controller comes equipped with dual USB ports designed to charge electronic devices – a feature some of its competitors do not have.
The product provides overcharge and overload protection as well as short-circuit and reverse-connection protection.
- Good information on the LCD Screen
- No separate amp and volt meters are necessary since info. is on the screen
- Temperature compensation feature
- The LCD screen itself is lower quality
Additionally, it provides a dot matrix graphic LCD screen and human-machine interface with a key that makes operations on the interface convenient.
Charging parameters can be automatically adjusted with temperature compensation, and a wide range of load working modes make this charge controller easy to use.
Also, by virtue of an advanced load starting method, large-capacity loads can be started smoothly.
Renogy Voyager 20A 12V/24V Solar Charge Controller
Renogy has designed and built a very good controller at an economical price point that is waterproof and has many useful features.
This PWM controller uses SMART technology and has 4-stage bulk charging (Bulk, Absorption, Float, and Equalization), ensuring your battery is protected. In addition, the charger supports numerous battery types (Gel, AGM, Flooded batteries or lithium) and detects 12v or 24v batteries.
- Durable - IP67 Waterproof
- High-quality controller for this price point
- Very easy to use, plug-and-play controller
- A few complaints about the display not working
The charger itself is IP67 rated, so it is waterproof and tightly sealed. It also has additional safety features – reverse polarity, overcharge, short-circuit, reverse current, overload, and over-discharge. This ensures the battery is protected.
One of the things I like is the LCD screen. There is no longer any need for a meter since all of the information you need is displayed, although it would be nice to see watts.
This is a solid PWM controller from Renogy that receives good consumer feedback and should definitely be on your short list of considerations.
ALLPOWERS Best 20A PWM Solar Charge Controller
The ALLPOWERS solar charge controller manages the overall performance of a solar panel and battery. With a discharge current rated at 20A, it provides multiple electric protections. The charger also has a reliable battery to charge and discharge period management.
- STM microprocessor helps control the charger
- Multiple Electric Protections
- Easy to use and set-up
- Digital display is not impressive
This charge controller is only suitable for lead-acid batteries and offers an adjustable power rate with dual USB ports as well as 4-stage charge management and 4-stage PWM charge. This charger also has good protections – short-circuit, overloading, reverse protection, as well as good heat dissipation.
Additionally, the controller provides a digital display feature that provides information on the status and data of the controller. It can be conveniently switched between varying modes and its parameters reconfigured.
This is a simple, easy-to-use controller with limited uses, but it performs its job.
Morningstar – SunSave 20A PWM Charge Controller
This 20A PWM charge controller is more expensive than the other charge controllers on this list, but it is also made by Morningstar and backed by their 5-Year warranty. Morningstar is known for its quality products and claims this charge controller has “the lowest fail rate in the industry.”
This is a no-frills charge controller with no display and only a few led operations for monitoring its operation. Users will tell you that is fine though because there is never any reason to check this dependable charger.
- Five Year Warranty
- The lowest "Fail" rate claimed by the manufacturer
- Industry grade device
- No display to review operations
This charger has a low-voltage disconnect and 4-stage charging, along with safety protocols – surge, short-circuit over-current and reverse polarity conditions. It also has self-diagnostics and factory settings so there are no installation settings required.
The charge controller is also durable, and able to take abuse, with epoxy encapsulation, marine-rated terminals, and a cover for wire terminals. The polycarbonate case for the charge controller is industrial grade and one of many features that set this charge controller apart from many other controllers currently on the market.
If you want a charge controller that is dependable, and that you can set up and forget, this is the PWM charge controller you need.
Summary – PWM 20A Charge Controller
While an MPPT charge controller is more efficient, it is not always necessary for a small system. In many cases, it is more economical to purchase a PWM controller.