Is newer really better? Victron GX Devices Compared.
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- Опубліковано 8 лип 2024
- In this video, we break down the main differences between Victron Energy's monitoring devices - the Color Control GX, the Cerbo GX, and the newest Ekrano GX. We cover the history of these three products, their form functionality, and then get into the nitty-gritty details of why you would want to choose one GX device over another.
➤Victron GX Comparison Sheet: www.victronenergy.com/live/ve...
➤ Shop the EXPLORIST.life Store: shop.explorist.life
➤Victron Ekrano GX: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-...
➤Victron Cerbo GX:shop.explorist.life/shop/all-...
➤Victron Touch 70: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-...
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00:00 Victron GX Device Overview
00:58 History of Color Control GX
01:26 History of Cerbo GX
02:38 History of Ekrano GX
03:02 Recap of Devices
03:47 Venus OS
03:58 Technical Differences
04:57 Performance Differen ces
05:19 Which one is the BEST?
06:15 Which is best for YOU? - Авто та транспорт
➤ Shop the EXPLORIST.life Store: shop.explorist.life
➤Victron Ekrano GX: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/victron-ekrano-gx/
➤Victron Cerbo GX:shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/victron-cerbo-gx/
➤Victron Touch 70: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/victron-gx-touch-70/
www.victronenergy.com/live/venus-os:start
As others have already commented,, having a monitor (display) installed in the RV is one thing to run a data and HDMI cable. Having to run the attachments for all my other gear and sensors into my coach would not make sense.
Cerbo GX for the win.
IMO Cerbo is still the best because it is a more centralized device/hub and i didn't like to put all the connections into the color control as the Ekrano does too.
Running 6-8 cables into my outer bathroom wall sounds TERRIBLE. Cerbo > Ekrana.
I agree. I usually chase the latest tech, but upgrading my Cerbo to an Ekrano would require me to completely rewire my system since my Cerbo hub is near all my main components and the place I need the screen is ~20’ away.
I personally have the Cerbo GX with USB and HDMI extension cables in my 5th wheel and haven't had any connection issues, I couldn't imagine trying to get all the communication cables routed from my front storage area to my upper hallway where I have the Cerbo. Great videos as always!! Couldn't have done my own install without you and all your content! Thanks Nate!!!!
Another vote for the Cerbo. I didn’t want to run all the wiring to the location where the screen is mounted. This way, the Cerbo is in the electrical compartment with short wire runs to all the equipment, and just the one cable running to the screen.
Cerbo Gx for me. Prefer to have a screen located where I want it without all the other connections going to the screen.
Same here.
Same here. With a good quality 10m HDMI cable I've had no issues with connection.
This allows me to keep the Cerbo GX down in the electrical bay, and the screen up the front of the living space where I can see it as soon as I walk in the door., and only the one cable running the distance.
I can see the benefit of the Ekrano in something like a boat dash though.
I think the concept of the Cerbo is the better one. Not having to run all the cables to the screen is a big one for me. Personally i have chosen a PI with VenusOS with a tablet for the screen and user interface. Just needs a network connection to the VenusOsPI.
I wanted to give this comment more than one thumbs-up 😁. This is the direction I’m going with for my setup.
Just saw your comment after posting mine. Rasperry Pi 4 with Venus OS! 😁
Does the PI has the relay connections, just like the Cerbo?
@@seanlunsford8666 It was surprisingly easy to setup the PI. And it all runs flawless. SmartSolar, SmartShunt, Multiplus 1600 Setup. Be aware that you have to buy VEDirect to USB adaptors for every VEDirect device and the VEBus to USB device for the Multiplus to connect everything to the PI. Depending on the Setup and the price for the PI there isn't much saving compared to a Cerbo.
@@svestancia The PI doesn't have relay connections out of the box. You can add a relay HAT board to the PI and make it work, I have seen people in the VenusOS forums making it work. But you will have to do some tinkering. Like I said in my other comment, you'll need adaptors for every Victron device you wanna connect to the PI. So buying 5 adaptors and buying a relay board, and having to tinker everything together might not be worth the savings for everyone.
I like the separate touch 70 screen, to many wires to run to the newer Ekrano
As a diesel bus RV owner I agree with those saying Cerbo GX. With a diesel pusher and all the components down in the basement, the Cerbo GX has us snaking much fewer cables and wires as the Cerbo's location would be rather close to all the other compnents and we'd only be fishing the display cable. With the Ekrano all these cables and wires would have to be fished to the best display location. Now in a van where the wire runs may be minimal, I can see the appeal for the Ekrano for that market segment.
Another great video. Just what we were waiting for. Thanks Nate!
Like many have said, I'd go with the Cerbo for ease of wiring in my 5th wheel. Great video, Nate. we all appreciate it.
The issue I have with the Ekrano is running all the wires to the display and the required clearance behind the unit (4" I think I heard). On a scratch van build this can easily be planned for but for adding a system to an RV, finding an open wall with sufficient clearance behind could be an issue. In the other hand, the 2 meter hdmi limit is an equal issue that it seems like Victron should have improved on by now.
There are active HDMI repeaters or you can use fiber HDMI cables to get the additional length you need.
But yeah out of the box there is no reason why they shouldn't have set the voltage to be able to run 15ft or so. Especially considering the limited bandwidth required of a 720p or 1080p screeen. If this was 4K I would understand the limitation.
@lakorai2 Are you willing to personally guarantee that all of those will work?
Should I be forwarding all of my tech support emails to you regarding problems with hdmi extenders and the cerbo?
Point is: Sometimes the HDMI extensions will work, but sometimes they are the root of all problems based on our 'actual' experience.
@@EXPLORISTlifeI'd rather deal with the potential extension issues in my own system, but I certainly wouldn't recommend them to someone when I would end up being called up about them by customers. So I fully understand your position.
Nate, I always enjoy your videos and the information you provide. Thank you. As for which is better, I just purchased the Cerbo GX vs the Ekrano. Part of it was price point as I didn’t get a touchscreen ….yet(?)
However, the bigger reason is that I did not want to stretch every com cable across my trailer to where I would mount the screen should I get one.
Cerbo GX for the win in my book. It is a cleaner install with shorter device cables and either a single hdmi cable or just stay wireless for the display.
Cerbo Gx for me since it was the best option at the time. Been using my system in my fifthwheel for 2years now and works like a champ
Thank you Nate, for another important and easy-to-follow video on explaining the Victron display / controller differences! 😊👍 I still like the Cerbo with external interface, as the diplay is much shallower and allows for more options when mounting it to cabinet or wall. 😉
I have chosen a different approach though, as the Cerbo and Ekrano options are quite pricey.
I can download Victron's own Venus OS for free. I can use a 1GB Raspberry Pi 4 (with newest firmware!) with power supply and cooler for € 50.
Add an isolated 4 port USB to TTL UART FTD unit to connect the VE-direct conectors to a single USB input for the Pi (cost with 4 pcs.1m cables about € 55).
A 7 inch display to mount and connect a Raspberry Pi 4 perfectly € 50.
Makes about € 155 in total.
Bonus: If something fails, I can replace an SD or USB stick, a Pi, cables or interface as needed - and I do not have to replace the entire unit. I will actually carry a second setup (without display) just for redundancy. 😊 Perhaps a future kit for your shop? 😁
Cheers from Germany and stay safe, 🚐☁🍀
Volker
Easily the cerbo gx.
Simply because it is the cheaper option, if you do not want/need the screen and simply use the app on your phone.
I don't particularly find the Victron screen very attractive, had it looked like the Simarine Pico it might have been different.
Currently not convinced to run all the data cables to a screen, Cerbo GX and a remote screen seems more of a logical choice currently to me
Nate,
Thanks for the excellent review as always. For me with a small GD Imagine 22MLE, even 6' would be no problem for the HDMI Cable. Plus having to chase a half dozen or more data cable seems like a hassle.
However if the single package of the Ektano GX were good price advantage, then that might change the equation and also where I'd choose to place it.
Cheers, Eric
I used just the Cerbo GX with no display and use the app on my phone and tablet, that way I cant get an out of date display fitted - the app updates itself and works very well, from anywhere! Used on a narrowboat.
I guess it is application dependent between the Cerbo and Ekrano. In most of our installs I would prefer the Cerbo because I can remote locate it and just put the display where needed. And in an RV that is challenged for space and wire routing ability routing a bunch of wires to the display can be very, very challenging. So for that I prefer the Cerbo. If in a van or a very small RV where the display is easily co-located with "logic" then I'd put in the Ekrono. We have never had an issue with the extended HDMI, but you do have to use a high quality extension cable.
As others have said, there would be too many cables to run to my preferred display location and not enough rear clearance in the wall for me to use the Ekrano. With my Cerbo GX, I will utilize all three VE-direct ports, the VE-bus and VE-can for all of my devices. I had to put some thought into locating my Cerbo close enough to the display mounting point, but I like that it is still central to my devices, whereas the display is not.
Agree with everyone else on the cable issue. I typically end up with at least 5 VE.Direct devices and that is just too much wiring to run to where I want the screen. What Victron needs to make is a VE.bus to VE.direct hub. Small box that connects back via VE.bus and provides like 8 to 10 VE.direct ports.
I'd love to hear more about the reliability problems you're mentioning with HDMI. Do you suspect poor quality extension cables?
To answer your question, I had thought that running a single HDMI cable all the way across the van would be more reliable than running 4 rj45 and 4 sensor lines.... but now I'm questioning that.
I just bought an Ekrano to replace a CCGX. Faster processor and more ve.direct devices for roughly the same cost as a cerbo and 7” screen swung it for me. Plus they had a lot of problems with Bluetooth on the Cerbo so I’m hoping it’s better on the Ekrano.
Hi Nate, thanks for the great video as always! My question: I have a complete RV electrical system with a colour control built for me a little while ago but not yet installed in the vehicle, are these units interchangeable, can I easily swap out the colour control for one of the touch screen units?
The Ekrano would be a be a direct swap for the color control in 99% of installations.
Nate, thanks for the prompt reply! So no extra wiring, programming or anything……..just “plug and play”
I’ve got my touch50 30’ away from the GX. Never any issues. As for the Gx vs that new thing, if I were to install the ekrano the same way, I’d have 8 different wires to install around my rig vs the hdmi and usb.
Gx hands down.
I already have the Cerbo GX but do not have the screen for it yet. But I do believe I can locate the unit and the screen in a location so that the Cerbo GX is out of sight so I only see the screen. That being the case I don't have to worry about feeding all the various wires I may or will use for the various devices to the Cerbo GX whereas I will with the Ekrano GX. Therefore, the Cerbo GX still remains my preference. Now if I was ordering a new motorhome or boat and having it built then I might be inclined to have the Ekrano GX, but still not keen on all the wires going to it.
Great summary!! However, usng one cable (Cerbo GX) with a 15 foot HDMI cable from my front storage compartment, to the inside of my 5th wheel for the win. Running all the cables from each device to the Ekrano seems like a lot more cost and a lot more wires to deal with.
Glad that's working for you, but HDMI extenders are not reliable and your results are one of the lucky ones that actually work.
@@EXPLORISTlife Mine does work also very good. No problems.
Do yall want me to forward all of my tech support emails over to you two for all of those whose extensions don't work so yall would be on the hook for customer support and on those? 😂
@@EXPLORISTlife lol no. But i can tell you need a USB Extension Cable with Amplifier. They are not cheap but works as a charm!
@LordOneHoop lol, well I think that if you were on the hook for tech support and warranties on these things, I think that over time, your willingness to suggest extenders would drastically decline. 😂👍
Hi want to know something. Can the mulitplus-ii be fitted to raspberry pi which has CAN support. Do I need the mk3 if I want to connect to raspberry pi.
Super interesting, thank you. I've paid some attention to the Ekrano vs. Cerbo GX. My main beef was that I wanted the screen in some convenient place, and therefore thought the Ekrano was a bust. I hadn't considered that the HDMI might be flakey over distance. Have you tested how reliable the data communications are when the Ekrano is placed at a distance from the heart of the electrical system?
Most of my electrics and sensor cable runs will be less than 3 feet from the floor, so I'll be using the Cerbo GX to keep the connections close to the cable raceway for tidier wire management, and only a single cable running to the touchscreen at operator height. I may not need an HDMI extension, but, if I do, my research indicates this is not typically an issue with a quality extension cable, same goes for the USB power.
Definitely bench test the hdmi extension in depth. Based on us running tech support as a victron dealer, hdmi extensions cause a ton of headaches and problems.
I have the new victron multiplus 2. I'm having a hard time finding a portable generator that's compatible with this inverter. Any suggestions?
Honestly, I'd rather go for the Cerbo GX + Touch50/70.
That way you can place the screen where it makes sense for viewing it, even with limited space and accessibility, but the Cerbo GX can be in a technical compartment close by, for easily adding new connections without having to remove the screen to get access.
Also if the screen were to get damaged, you can more easily replace it when separated into two devices. You can even go third party. Also Touch50 is usually more than enough, and much cheaper combo.
I love Victron gear!
The issue I have with the newest device is the mounting. If you don’t have an area that is at least 2-3 inches deep behind the mounting surface you’re in trouble. You either have to build the mounting surface out or bend the wires very sharply behind the device. That’s the only issue I can see with the new GX device.
I have a ‘older’ Color Control GX and my ranking would be the Ekrano followed by the Color Control and the Cerbo bringing up the rear. Here’w why: first, processing power isn’t a big deal unless you detect noticeably slower responses, which I don’t think there is. Second, the sole advantage of the Cerbo is only running one one cable to the display but with HDMI reliability issues for long lengths, its a non-starter. The only reason why the Ekrano wins over the Color Control GX is it’s increased number of interface connections.
Isn't there a DIY screen/control option? Is that a different model Cerbo? And do you have any videos on that method?
Yeah; you can get a raspberry pi, arduino, or whatever and install venus OS on it and code it all to work; but I don't have any tutorials on that. A bit to advanced for 90% of the people seeking this channel out. Sorta like how I don't have any tutorials that teach somebody how to build an Inverter or MPPT charge controller from individual components or something like that; but if that's your gig... the info is out there; I just don't have any tutorials on it.
@@EXPLORISTlife good to know man! Yup I can do the raspberry pi way probably... I have a few just never found a great use case for them.
I prefer the detached screen setup (Cerbo GX + Touch) for more options on screen location, without having to bring all cables to the screen... As for ports, the new Cerbo GX Mk2 is on par or better than the Ekrano GX.
All I know is I wish they would duplicate both relays the same eg: gen start / stop I’ve got a very useful idea for that, and yes have one old gx and 2 cerbos🙈
Is the cerbo gx no longer needed with the Ekrano?
Correct. The Ekrano basically has the cerbo built into the back of it.
If only the Cerbo GX had Cat6 Video extending as opposed to running an Hdmi cable. The HDMI interface is woefully inadequate for mobile applications, and for extended 30'+ runs.
The Ekrano is cost prohibitive at nearly 700$, and again if its a long run, now you have to extend all involved modules communications cables to that display, making it even more cost prohibitive.
Naturally the equipment will likely be in one location, which is why the cerbo does well for itself. Except the cerbo relies on HDMI and USB to power a remote screen. They really should use a POE cat6 extension which is superior in almost every way and used very often in the commercial A/V world already- Now we can introduce the AVB protocol and how this tech already exists in an open protocol that Victron is welcome to use.. This would save money for all involved, and be significantly more robust.
Maybe next generation Cerbo will be the perfect unit, it sure is close now.
I prefer the cerbo. Several of the custom cables that hook to different devices, for example my wake speed to cerbo are relatively short. And instead of having to extend four or five ethernet cables. I have had pretty good luck with a HDMI to ethernet extension and putting my screen where it's more useful
Also, it wouldn't make me go out and buy a new one, but it seems like you would be relatively simple to upgrade the processing power of the cerbo
I'd still go with the Cerbo just for the cabling, the new one would need to be close to equipment for ease of cable management. Imo
Regardless of device, The data cables will need to terminate at the device as HDMI extensions with the Cerbo are incredibly unreliable. Fortunately, Data cables come in quite long lengths.
The real DIY option is running VenusOS on a Raspberry Pi, which Victron freely distributes. If you have the technical expertise you'll save a fortune going this route. My Pi works perfect, inexpensive touchscreen with DSI connection, connected to a USB hub that sits with my other devices. Many people do this so don't feel you need to invest in these more expensive products if you are on a tight budget.
i have the same setup but we'll see how the new gui will work, as of now it's not yet implemented in the latest Beta for the pi
I don’t see the additional value in any of the servo GX products if you already have the info bluetoothed on your phone.
You could have mentioned, that there is going to be a new Cerbo GX and that there was the Cerbo-S GX released lately. or did i miss it?
Realistically, the concepts are still the same. Cerbo MK2 and the Cerbo S just have a few different features in terms of inputs/outputs and processing power, but is still a 'blue box' that connects to the external touch 50/70 display screen.
The deciding factor will be how far your monitor will be from your equipment. In my case the monitor requires a 30' difficult cable run. In this situation, making just one cable run is a better solution.
I'm a fan of taping the end of all data cables together and then running them 'as one cable' for situations like that. If it's a 30ft cable run, you would still need to run the data cables 25ft to the cerbo because the HDMI cable is only 6ft long and using HDMI extenders with that unit is incredibly unreliable.
@@EXPLORISTlife The HDMI cable has been in place for over a year with no issues. Your suggestion of taping all the cables together is fine if you're never going to expand your capabilities. If I want to say add tank sensors later, I would have to make the same difficult cable run again.
It seems like every company and device is trying to force a touch screen on everything to make it seem more modern. For example: My oven and microwave have touch screens. Enough is enough. I like a nice simple tactile control on a device. Apple already made the perfect touch screen devices (iPhone and iPad) everything else just don’t quite work as well. The other devices “work” but just not quite as reliable or fluid. I wish tech companies would just focus on quality apps that can connect via Bluetooth to an iPad or iPhone if you need touch screen and leave actual attenuators and knobs and buttons on the devices. The touch screen backlash is coming and touch screen everything will seem dated soon. The flip flop is already happening with home appliances, low end appliances have touch screens and the higher end appliances are back to actual knobs and buttons. That’s my two cents.
Boy do I have a present surprise for you. Victron already has that, and it's free, through the VictronConnect app.
These devices are more for those who want a wall mounted display.
I know all about it. I've got it and I'm glad they continually update it and try to improve it. My comment is just a general observation that everything needing a touchscreen seems to be a fad we are going through. "Remember back around the 2020s when they were putting touch screens on tv remote controls, home ovens, guitar pedals, every car stereo display? That was crazy! Glad we all got over that!" Haha @@EXPLORISTlife
You missed the multiplexs with a built in cerbo off your list . Should have same cpu/memory in the cerbo and ekrano as i can see use cases for both.
I didn't 'miss' them. Those units just aren't available in the USA where we are based, so I omitted them intentionally.
@@EXPLORISTlife ok cool they are available where I live but I'd prefer a separate box
Too much wires to extend with Ekrano. Imagine 3 ve.direct+2, ve.direct to usb+, 1 ve.bus, 1ve.can. tank sensors... I've been installing cerbo with 5 meters hdmi+usb extenders without any problem. Also if your going to install Ekrano over van walls, you need a lot of depth behind. They are designed for different purposes. Ekrano is great in home scenaries and speciallyy when you are going to use node-red. Surely we will see a new Cerbo with updated processor in the future
You didn’t mention prices. That might be relevant for some where wiring etc issues aren’t as important. Also, when considering price, can’t someone just use an iPad or other tablet to display the information wirelessly? That would mean no wires to run to display.
Prices are listed in product pages linked in the video description and pinned comment. If you don't need/want a wall mounted screen, may as well do without any of these devices and just use the VictronConnect app which connect with each device via bluetooth.
None of the above! The reason is I use my VictronConnect app and find that it works for me on my off grid system for my house. I don’t use a lot of relays or any exotic measures.
One thing I would like to know, though, as a Mac user I cannot update my inverter’s firmware. Can I update my firmware without buying a PC by using one of these?
Yeah, not everybody needs these; but I'd say that most people like the convenience of a wall mounted display.
You can use windows, android, or Iphone to update the Multiplus firmware w/ MK3-USB Programming dongle.
@@EXPLORISTlife
I’m using the Quattro 5000 48 V. Tried it with the iPhone and it doesn’t work. The only thing I can change is power coming in for like a generator amperage.
Perhaps you have a video?
@simon359 Are you using the VE.Bus Smart Dongle or the MK3 USB Programming dongle?
@@EXPLORISTlife yep! What software for my Mac computer? I looked on Victron site and all I find is for PC/EXE.
@@EXPLORISTlife
Interface MK3-usb (VE.bus to usb.
But I have both!
Cerbo GX for me. First, I can run GuiMods on it, and next I'd hate to have to run ALL the cables to the remote position of the screen.
The Cerbo gives you the option of relocating your monitor basically anywhere,
With the other options; relocating the monitor is going to be a pain in the a**
I don't really like combo devices. Also, it would be much more problematic if I carried all my sensor cables to where the screen is. It's perfect for me to just carry my information display instead. That's why the winner is CERBO GX TOUCH 70
For some, the screen is unnecessary. If you have the Cerbo, one can do many of the controls from a computer or phone.
If you don't need/want a screen, may as well do without any of these devices and just use the VictronConnect app which connect with each device via bluetooth.
I’m not to familiar with the screens why not the data be transferred by Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to a mini or iPad display.
That is another option by using the native VictronConnect app and not using any of the GX devices.
I agree with everyone else, Cerbo is better.
Can hide the cables and box, and have screen wherever you want.
I left my comment on the existing models, now my final comment is that I’m pretty disappointed in Victron’s Ekrano It’s still a step backwards. Their newest touch screen interface should include built in Bluetooth and more importantly WiFi hub/router capability along with USB 3.0. Victron needs to transition from their wired bus architecture to a wireless one, either Bluetooth or preferably WiFi. This would eliminate ALL the wiring between units yet still allow them to communicate with each other as well as a celllphone or tablet app. Programming and firmware updates are either done wirelessly or via a USB interface. Running wires these days is very old-school.
The non-touch screen is better looking and 2024 standards aren't something to be excited about. I'll always prefer the vintage look.
🤣😂 That's the first time I've heard that one!
Probably Raspberry Pi :-)
Cerbo still wins
😏Victron reminds me of Apple 🖥️:
always updating to something new that should’ve been established a long time ago. 😑
They are indeed always updating to the newest technology, yes.
Cerbo gx for me, all in one means one bit goes down it probably all goes down
I guess in that same mindset, if the Touch 50/70 dies, that means re-running wires. If an ekrano dies, it'd be a direct swap without needing to re-run anything.
@EXPLORISTlife I don't see why it means re-running wires if a GX monitor /unit goes out? Also if the Ekrano monitor goes kaput chances are it'll knock the whole unit out. If a GX monitor goes I bet the core unit will still be working your system
The hdmi wire for the Touch 50/70 is hard wired to the unit, so that would have to be re-run to the cerbo, which MAY not be a big deal, or it may mean Uninstalling walls.
Plus, equipment failure is rare enough that shouldn't matter. And there is a 5 year warranty.
@@EXPLORISTlife fair point, didn't know that