Introduction
As a tech professional and solar power enthusiast, I have extensively researched the best solar inverters on the market this year based on power output, features, price, and real-world performance. In this expert review, I will compare the top 5 models that stand out and provide actionable advice on selecting the right inverter for your needs.
How Solar Inverters Work
Before jumping into the product recommendations, let‘s quickly cover what solar inverters do and why they are an essential component of any solar power system.
Solar panels produce low voltage direct current (DC) electricity that must be transformed into 120/240-volt alternating current (AC) to power home appliances and devices. A solar inverter handles this critical conversion efficiently and reliably.
When shopping for a solar inverter, key factors to consider are:
- Power handling capacity – Size appropriately for your solar array
- Voltage specs – Match DC input to your solar panels and required AC output
- Pure sine wave vs. modified sine wave – Pure sine is better for sensitive devices
- Safety features – Overload, short circuit and overheat protection
- Ease of installation and operation
- Warranty coverage – At least 5 years is recommended
Getting the properly sized solar inverter with the right features is crucial for harnessing the full capability of your solar panel system and powering your off-grid or backup loads efficiently.
The 5 Best Solar Inverters of 2023
1. Victron Energy Phoenix Inverter 1200VA – Best Overall
The Victron Energy Phoenix line has earned a reputation for quality and performance in the solar industry. The Phoenix 1200VA pure sine wave inverter is my top overall pick for its robust 2200W power handling, integrated battery charging, and smooth sine wave output.
Key Specs:
- Continuous Output: 1200VA/1000W
- Surge Capacity: 2200W
- Input Voltage Range: 10-15V
- Output Voltage: 120VAC pure sine wave
- Dimensions: 17.3 x 11.4 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 15 pounds
- Warranty: 5 years
This mid-sized Victron inverter strikes the best balance of power delivery, advanced features, and ease of installation. It outputs a clean sine wave that is safe for powering sensitive electronics and small household appliances.
Integrated Bluetooth allows wireless monitoring and control from smartphones and tablets using the VictronConnect app. Other highlights include adjustable charging parameters, temperature-controlled cooling fan, and multiple programmable relay options.
In my experience using the Victron 1200VA model, it has worked flawlessly powering a variety of loads like lights, small power tools, laptops and my refrigerator in a DIY camper van build. Overall an incredibly versatile solar inverter option.
Pros:
- Strong continuous and surge power capacity
- Adjustable settings via Bluetooth app
- Reliable performance for RV/off-grid use
Cons:
- Only single AC output
- Bluetooth dongle sold separately
Ideal Uses: Household backup power, RVs, marine applications
2. GoPower Inverter GP-SW3000-12 – Best 3000W Model
For running larger household appliances and devices, I recommend the GoPower GP-SW3000-12 pure sine wave power inverter. With 3000W of continuous capacity and 6000W of peak output, this rugged inverter can handle most loads with ease in an off-grid or backup power scenario.
Key Specs:
- Continuous Output: 3000W
- Surge Capacity: 6000W
- Input Voltage Range: 10.5-15V
- Output Voltage: 120V AC pure sine wave
- Dimensions: 18 x 8 x 12 inches
- Weight: 21 pounds
- Warranty: 2 years
GoPower built this inverter for performance, with convenient front-facing controls and connection ports. The mid-size form factor allows flexible placement while still enabling enough breathing room for ventilation across its aluminum casing.
I especially like the automatic low battery shutdown feature to prevent excess battery drain when voltage drops too low. This prevents damaging lead-acid or lithium batteries. Add to that short circuit and overload protection, and you have a very reliable large-scale solar inverter perfect for home backup.
Pros:
- High 3000W continuous power capacity
- 6000W peak for motor startup loads
- Automatic low battery voltage protection
Cons:
- No wireless monitoring or control
- Shorter 2-year warranty period
Ideal Uses: Whole house backup power, off-grid homes
3. Renogy Wanderer Li – Best for Lithium Batteries
Purpose-built for powering lithium battery banks, the Renogy Wanderer Li inverter line features integrated battery management system (BMS) communication protocols. Available in 1000W and 2000W models, these 24V capable inverters maximize efficiency and lifetime of lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries.
Key Specs:
- Continuous Output: 1000W or 2000W options
- Surge Capacity: 2500W or 4000W
- Input Voltage Range: 20-32V
- Output Voltage: 120V AC modified sine wave
- Dimensions: 12.4 x 5.7 x 3.4 inches
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Warranty: 2 years
Renogy Wanderer Li inverters come equipped with a smart lithium battery charging algorithm and communicate directly via CAN bus or RS485 interfaces with the battery BMS. This coordinated charging regulation protects lithium cells from damage while allowing safe discharge to very low voltage thresholds unseen with lead acid batteries.
These lightweight inverters work well for lithium battery setups in RVs, overland vehicles and off-grid cabins running up to medium sized loads. Just take note they output a modified sine wave instead of pure sine.
Pros:
- Designed for lithium battery banks
- Integrated BMS communication
- Smart lithium battery charging
Cons:
- No pure sine wave option
- Less peak power than comparably sized models
Ideal Uses: Lithium battery systems for RV and off-grid
4. GoPower TS-MPPT-60-CC Solar Controller + Inverter Bundle – Best Solar Generator Kit
For a solar generator setup all in one, I recommend this combo package from GoPower bundling a 60 amp MPPT solar charge controller and 3000W inverter. With a built-in 20A AC transfer switch, it offers plug-and-play usability once wired to your battery bank and solar panels. No need to purchase separate components.
Key Specs:
MPPT Solar Charge Controller:
- 60A Maximum Current
- 100V DC Maximum Input Voltage
- 12/24V Compatible
Inverter:
- 3000W Continuous / 6000W Peak
- 120V AC Output
- Transfer Switch: 20A
Having both the MPPT controller to harvest power from solar panels and store into batteries AND a full-scale inverter to deliver 120V electricity, this integrated system is brilliant for building out DIY solar generators.
It is an easy recommendation for anyone wanting a power station to take camping or emergency backup power at home without complex component sizing and compatibility concerns. Just wire up panels, battery bank, outlets and flip the switch for "generator" level off-grid capability.
Pros:
- Bundled MPPT charge controller + inverter
- Integrated 20A AC transfer switch
- DIY solar generator all-in-one
Cons:
- Cannot add more charge controllers
- Less flexibility in placement
Ideal Use: Turnkey backup solar generator
5. Voltus Power Inverter/Charger – Best Marine Inverter
Operating DC appliances and devices on boats and yachts requires unique power management suited to the harsh marine environment. Here the Voltus VEC series inverter/charger shines with corrosion resistant construction and targeted features catering specifically to marine applications.
Key Specs:
- Continuous Output: 2000W or 3000W options
- Input Voltage: 12/24/48V DC Compatible
- Output: 120/240V AC 60Hz Split Phase
- Battery Charger: 100A/50A (selectable)
- Waterproof Casing: IP23
- Dimensions: 18 x 14 x 7 inches
These rugged, marinized inverter/chargers efficiently produce smooth AC to run microwave, TV, coffee machine and other onboard outlets and appliances. At the same time, automatic 2/3 stage battery charging Regulates cycle charging when connected to dockside or generator power.
IP23 water ingress protection, anti-corrosion PCB coatings and powder coated casing allow trouble-free performance in rough offshore conditions spanning temperature extremes and humidity exposure over long durations.
Add intuitive network monitoring via smartphone through the VictronConnect integration, and the marine-grade Voltus inverter charger is my top recommendation for yachts or sailboats relying on steady, reliable AC power generation offshore.
Pros:
- Marine-grade waterproof construction
- Automatic battery charging modes
- Network monitoring via VictronConnect
Cons:
- Larger dimensions than comparable models
- Higher cost than standard inverters
Ideal Use: Oceangoing yacht/sailboat house power
Choosing the Best Solar Inverter: A Buyer‘s Guide
The key to choosing the right solar inverter lies in properly sizing it to your system‘s power requirements and intended loads. Follow this guide when assessing your needs:
Step 1: Determine your usable solar power generation capacity by totaling your solar array wattage then multiplying by 0.8 to account for real-world inefficiencies.
For example, 4 x 300W panels = 1200W x 0.8 = ~960W of available power.
Step 2: Audit and total the wattages of devices/appliances you plan to run. Select an inverter with at least 20% buffer above this number.
If you need 700W of equipment, choose an >= 840W continuous output inverter.
Step 3: Ensure your inverter‘s DC voltage range matches battery bank voltage for proper connectivity. 12V, 24V and 48V systems are common.
Step 4: Match required AC output specs – 120V or 230V split phase to power devices. Pure vs. modified sine wave depends on connected loads.
Step 5: Choose physical size and mounting requirements fitting installation space constraints. Ensure sufficient airflow and ventilation.
Following this methodical process calibrated to your off-grid or backup system parameters will ensure you select the best solar inverter model tailored to your electrical loads and usage needs.
Real-World Solar Inverter Performance
In my experience installing various solar inverters for home, RV and boat electrification projects, these devices perform remarkably well converting battery power into clean, usable AC electricity rivaling utility grid quality and consistency.
The top inverter models on the market today boast excellent voltage regulation, producing a steady 120V 60Hz sine wave output able to handle sensitive electronics without interference ordamage.
Sound levels are very quiet, especially in smaller ≤2000W units, making indoor mounting feasible. Larger 3000+W inverters emit a faint cooling fan hum – comparable to a quiet desktop PC. Vibration is a non-issue.
With pure sine wave inverters like the Victron Phoenix lineup, powered devices run exactly as if plugged into a normal wall outlet, except the power source is now self-contained – be it solar or battery. Any compatible appliance functions properly without performance sacrifices.
The digital interfaces and smartphone connectivity of premium inverters vastly improve monitoring and control compared to past generations of analog units. Seeing critical system data graphed over time provides valuable insights.
In real-world operation, I have been highly satisfied by solar inverter reliability and absolutely consider these an essential upgrade over generator power for clean, green, off-grid residential, marine and recreational electricity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size solar inverter do I need?
Choose an inverter with at least 20% higher capacity than the combined wattages of devices and loads you plan to run. Audit the peak power consumption of all equipment, then multiply this by 1.2X as a safe buffer.
Will a 3000W inverter run my house?
A 3000W solar inverter can run most household loads besides electric stove/oven and central air simultaneously. Calculate total running wattage used over a typical day excluding those to determine feasibility.
Do I need a pure sine wave vs. modified sine wave inverter?
Pure sine wave inverters output a smooth, continuous AC waveform like grid power. This is recommended for powering sensitive electronics, appliances and medical/industrial equipment. Modified sine generates a less smooth stepped output that works for most loads besides precision devices.
What happens if I undersize my solar inverter?
An undersized solar inverter will go into overload protection shutoff if connected equipment tries to draw more wattage than its rated continuous power capacity. Size appropriately to avoid nuisance trip-offs.
