Are Monocrystalline or Polycrystalline Solar Panels Right for You?

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Monocrystalline vs. Polycrystalline Solar Panels

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Written by Tamara Jude + 1 other

Tamara Jude is a seasoned content writer with more than seven years of experience in research and content production. She specializes in the solar energy, home warranty, and windows categories. Her interest in home improvement began as a child, when she regularly completed home projects alongside her family.

Homeowners can choose from three main types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels are the most common for residential installations, but they each have different costs, efficiency rates, and pros and cons.

We’ve broken down the key differences between monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels so you can determine the best solar panels for your home.

Monocrystalline vs. Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels are the two most common types of solar panels. Like all solar panels, they capture the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity. Both types utilize silicon, a material that is abundant and durable.

The most significant difference between these two designs is the manufacturing process. Monocrystalline (mono) panels use a single silicon crystal, while polycrystalline (poly) panels consist of multiple crystals melted together. Here’s a breakdown of how each type of cell is made.

Monocrystalline

Mono panels contain monocrystalline solar cells made from a single silicon crystal. This crystal is grown in a lab and formed into a cylindrical shape called an ingot.

The silicon ingots are cut into thin discs known as silicon wafers, which then undergo a series of treatments to maximize their efficiency. The rounded edges are shaved into straight edges and chamfered corners. This nearly square, octagonal shape allows more crystalline silicon cells to fit into a solar panel, minimizing the wasted space that would exist between circular cells.

Using a single crystal improves the solar panels’ efficiency and results in a sleek black surface. However, the mono cell manufacturing process is more expensive, and the shaved pieces cannot be reused for other mono cells.

Polycrystalline

Poly solar panels also use silicon, but the manufacturing process is different. Instead of using a single silicon crystal, poly panels utilize multiple silicon fragments melted together.

To create polycrystalline cells, molten silicon material is typically poured into a square mold and cut into thin wafers once cool. The multi-crystalline process is simpler and less expensive than producing monocrystalline cells, and it creates less waste.

On the downside, fusing the crystal fragments together creates small imperfections that reduce efficiency compared to mono cells. These imperfections also give polycrystalline cells their distinctive speckled blue appearance.

Once the individual mono or poly solar cells are manufactured, they undergo further processing to become complete solar panels. A thin layer of conductive material, usually in the form of metal lines or ‘fingers’, is printed onto the front and back surfaces of the cells to collect the generated electricity. The cells are then sandwiched between protective layers of tempered glass to improve their durability.

Compare Monocrystalline vs. Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Here’s an overview of the differences between mono and poly solar panels.

Factors	Monocrystalline Panels	Polycrystalline Panels
Color	Black	Blue
Cost	More expensive	Less expensive
Efficiency rate	Over 20%	15% - 17%
Life span	25 - 40 years	25 - 35 years
Temperature coefficient	Lower temperature coefficient, more efficient in heat	Higher temperature coefficient, less efficient in heat

In-Depth Comparison

Mono and poly panels both harness the sun’s power and are popular choices. Understanding the differences between the two will help you choose the best panels for your home.

Aesthetics

Monocrystalline solar panels are black and blend in better with most rooftops. Polycrystalline panels are blue, making them more visible on roofs. You will also need more of them to produce the same amount of energy, which translates into a larger and more obtrusive array.

Cost

Monocrystalline cells are more complicated and expensive to produce than polycrystalline cells. Mono panels can cost $1 - $1.50 per watt, while poly panels fall between $0.90 and $1 per watt. However, prices can vary significantly due to market conditions. Though the difference in cost may seem slight, it adds up when installing a large system. Additionally, the difference in efficiency means you need more poly panels to power your home.

Homeowners can reduce solar panel costs by utilizing solar incentives, credits, and rebates. The federal solar tax credit offers a tax reduction equal to 30% of your solar panel installation costs, regardless of your solar panel type. Additional incentives may also be available at the state and city levels.

Efficiency

Solar panel efficiency indicates how well your panels convert solar energy into electricity, expressed in a percentage. For example, a panel with an efficiency rating of 22% converts 22% of the sunlight it absorbs into usable energy. Monocrystalline panels are the most efficient, achieving rates over 20%, while polycrystalline panels range from 15% to 17%.

Life Span

Both panel types have a great life span, but mono panels typically last longer, around 30 - 40 years with optimal care, while poly panels last approximately 25 - 35 years.

Many panels come with a 25-year warranty. However, the warranty period does not necessarily reflect how long solar panels will last. Well-maintained solar panels often exceed their warranty period by several years.

Temperature Coefficient

The temperature coefficient indicates how well your solar panels perform when temperatures change. Panels are tested under standard conditions of 77 degrees Fahrenheit but operate most efficiently between 59 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Polycrystalline panels have a higher temperature coefficient, leading to efficiency loss as temperatures rise, while monocrystalline panels remain more efficient in heat.

Are Monocrystalline or Polycrystalline Solar Panels Right for You?

Monocrystalline panels are ideal for those seeking high power output and efficiency, or if you prefer less noticeable solar panels. A higher efficiency rating means fewer panels are needed to power your home, making mono panels a great choice for roofs with limited space.

Polycrystalline panels are more budget-friendly but have lower efficiency ratings, which means you’ll need more of them to run your home, requiring more roof space. Their blue color also makes them more visible on rooftops.

Consider that it takes roughly six to ten years to pay off solar panels. Although monocrystalline panels have a higher upfront cost, they may yield more energy savings and potentially shorten the payback period.

For more information about choosing the right solar panels for your home, check out this video featuring heating expert Richard Trethewey and Mark Trout, CEO of Sunworks.

Our Top Solar Company Picks

Sunrun

4.5

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We recommend Sunrun for its four financing options, including unique leasing options if you don’t wish to own your system. This feature sets it apart from other companies on this list.

Prepaid and leased systems also include a 25-year warranty for system service and maintenance, ongoing monitoring, and theft insurance. The company offers financing plans for high-quality monocrystalline solar panels and products from reputable brands such as LG.

How We Scored Sunrun

Sunrun earned 4.4 out of 5 stars based on our methodology. The company gained points for its positive reputation, comprehensive leasing options, and warranty coverage, but lost some for limited service selection.

• Solar Equipment and Services (15 out of 25 points): Sunrun provides solar panel and battery installation but relies on third-party installers.
• Warranty and Performance Guarantees (19 out of 25 points): Sunrun offers a strong 25-year manufacturer and labor warranty but doesn’t include a performance guarantee.
• Brand Reputation (13 out of 15 points): Sunrun has high customer ratings and a solid reputation online.
• Financing Options (13.5 out of 15 points): While no in-house financing is available, they offer extensive warranty coverage for leasing customers.
• Industry Experience (9 out of 10 points): Sunrun boasts 17 years of experience in the solar industry.
• State Availability (8 out of 10 points): Sunrun operates in 18 states.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Provides system monitoring that alerts you to issues with your system.
• Offers diverse financing options to cater to various budgets.
• Provides EV and solar battery solutions.

Cons

• Limited online information on solar incentive disqualifications with leases.
• Requires additional costs for the same coverage plans as leased and prepaid customers.
• Varies solar battery availability by state.

Warranty and Financing

Warranty: Sunrun backs its systems with a 10-year comprehensive warranty covering product, roof penetration, and workmanship.

Financing Options: Available options include full purchase, loan, lease, and PPA.

State Availability

Available in: States including California, Colorado, and more.

Reputation and Reviews

Sunrun has received several awards and holds an A+ rating from the BBB, with customers praising its comprehensive leasing system.

Solar Energy World

4.4

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Solar Energy World is well-regarded in the industry, offering a 30-year manufacturer's warranty. The range of services is limited, but they primarily use quality brands like Qcells and Silfab.

How We Scored Solar Energy World

SEW scored 4.4 out of 5 stars for its 30-year warranty, though it doesn’t install EV chargers and lacks energy audits.

• Solar Equipment and Services (18 out of 25 points): Offers basic services and some solar products but lacks certain options like EV chargers.
• Warranty and Performance Guarantees (19 out of 25 points): Standout features include their long warranties without production guarantees.
• Brand Reputation (15 out of 15 points): Holds an excellent reputation with no active alerts or lawsuits.
• Financing Options (13.5 out of 15 points): Offers multiple selling options but lacks in-house financing.
• Industry Experience (8 out of 10 points): Established since 2015, allowing it to score well.
• State Availability (6 out of 10 points): Services only eight East Coast states.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Features extensive solar product lines with trusted brands.
• Includes free active monitoring.
• Employs NABCEP-certified installers.

Cons

• Reports of communication issues with staff.
• Warranty coverage varies by brand.
• No power production guarantee offered.

Warranty and Financing

Warranty: Offers a 30-year manufacturer's warranty on solar panels, but coverage varies by brand.

Financing Options: Available options include full purchase, loan, lease, and PPA.

State Availability

Available in: Areas including Washington D.C., Delaware, and more.

Reputation and Reviews

SEW ranked high on Solar Power World's Top Solar Contractors List and holds an A+ BBB rating. Customers appreciate the professionalism and smooth installation process, while some reported scheduling discrepancies.

Blue Raven Solar

4.4

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Blue Raven Solar is known for its reliability and outstanding customer service. The company provides in-house financing, including 18 months of free solar energy, leading to significant customer satisfaction.

How We Scored Blue Raven Solar

Blue Raven earned 4.4 out of 5 stars, praised for customer service but noted for limited financing options.

• Solar Equipment and Services (18 out of 25 points): Offers installation services, but lacks EV chargers.
• Warranty and Performance Guarantees (22 out of 25 points): Provides top-notch warranties, but lacks roof leak coverage.
• Brand Reputation (13 out of 15 points): High ratings from BBB and other sites, but no NABCEP certification assurance.
• Financing Options (12 out of 15 points): Good in-house financing, but limited in terms of options.
• Industry Experience (7 out of 10 points): In business for only 10 years.
• State Availability (7 out of 10 points): Services in 19 states.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Offers SunPower’s high-efficiency panels and storage options.
• Provides unique in-house financing with 18 months of free solar energy.
• Recognized as one of the most reputable solar companies.

Cons

• Production guarantee duration is shorter than some competitors.
• Some customers mention issues with communication.
• Workmanship warranties may be slightly below the industry standard.

Warranty and Financing

Warranty: Blue Raven provides a 25-year product warranty, 10-year workmanship warranty, and a two-year production guarantee.

Financing Options: Options include full purchase and loans.

State Availability

Available in: States like Colorado, Florida, Idaho, and more.

Reputation and Reviews

Blue Raven has received many accolades, including high customer service ratings and recognition for its culture. However, communication issues were reported by some customers. Comprehensive reviews indicate satisfaction with installations but some concerns arose with third-party installers.

Other Types of Solar Panels

Mono and poly panels are not the only types available. Thin-film solar panels are made with thin layers of photovoltaic material deposited onto a backing like glass, plastic, or metal.

Thin-film solar panels are black, thin, and flexible. They are the least expensive option but have a lifespan of only 10 - 20 years and low efficiency rates between 9% and 15%. These panels are suitable for small solar installations, such as a shed or garage.

Three main types of thin-film solar panels include:

• Amorphous Silicon (a-Si): Flexible and cheap but less efficient.
• Cadmium Telluride (CdTe): A balance of efficiency and affordability, but carries the drawbacks of toxic materials.
• Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS): Offers durability and efficiency similar to polycrystalline panels but costs more.

Additionally, there are variations within the mono and poly categories, such as PERC technology that improves efficiency by reflecting unused light back to the cell.

Our Conclusion

The best choice between monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels depends on your roof space, budget, and preferences. Mono panels are more efficient and require less space but are more expensive. Conversely, poly panels are more cost-effective but less efficient and need more roof space.

Request quotes from at least three solar companies to compare options, services, and costs.

FAQ About Monocrystalline vs. Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Which solar panel is better: monocrystalline or polycrystalline?

Monocrystalline panels offer higher quality but at a premium. They have better efficiency ratings and generate more power per panel, meaning fewer panels are needed for your home. Polycrystalline panels are more budget-friendly but less efficient, requiring greater installation.

Which type of solar panel is the most efficient?

Monocrystalline panels are typically the most efficient types available. Their single-crystal structure facilitates better electron flow, improving energy conversion. However, they are also the most expensive due to their complex manufacturing processes.

Which type of solar panels works better in hot climates?

Monocrystalline panels perform better in hot, dry conditions due to their lower temperature coefficient, but they are affected by cooler temperatures.

What is the main disadvantage of monocrystalline panels?

The primary drawback is their price; monocrystalline panels are the most expensive due to their complex manufacturing process.

What are the advantages of polycrystalline panels?

Advantages include lower costs and minimal waste created during production.

For more details on choosing the right solar panels, feel free to contact us regarding Monocrystalline 72 Cells Solar Panel.