*Does off-grid solar confuse you?* Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system packages and product recommendations, and so much more! www.mobile-solarpower.com *Join our DIY solar community!* #1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike: www.diysolarforum.com Check out my best-selling, beginner-friendly 12V off-grid solar book (affiliate link): amzn.to/2Aj4dX4 If DIY is not for you, but you love solar and need an offgrid system, check out EnergyPal! They will price out a system and get your house offgrid: energypal.com/diysolar/ *My Solar Equipment Recommendations (Constantly updated! Check here first):* 12V/48V Lithium Batteries: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-batteries.html Solar System Component Directory: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solarcomponents.html Complete 48V System Blueprint: www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v-complete-system-blueprint.html Plug-N-Play Systems: www.mobile-solarpower.com/full-size-systems.html Complete 48V System Kits: www.mobile-solarpower.com/complete-48v-solar-kits.html DIY Friendly Air Conditioner/ Heat Pumps: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-friendly-air-conditioners.html *My Favorite Online Stores for DIY Solar Products:* *Signature Solar* Offgrid One-Stop-Shop. Best Value 48V LiFePO4, Victron and Offgrid Specific Heat Pumps: www.signaturesolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek *Current Connected* SOK, Victron, Mr.Cool Heatpumps and High Quality Components: currentconnected.com/?ref=wp *Ecoflow Delta* My favorite plug-n-play solar generator: us.ecoflow.com/?aff=7 *AmpereTime* Cheapest 12V batteries around: amperetime.com/products/ampere-time-12v-100ah-lithium-lifepo4-battery?ref=h-cvbzfahsek *Renogy* A classic 12V solar store that has been around for ages! renogy.sjv.io/n1VjXx *Rich Solar* Renogy's biggest competitor! Similar products, but at a better price: richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek *Battery Hookup* Cheap cell deals bit.ly/2mIxSqt 5% off code: diysolar *Contact Information:* I am NOT available for personal solar system consult! If you wish to contact me, this is my direct email: williamprowsediysolar@gmail.com Join the forum at diysolarforum.com/ if you wish to hang out with myself and others and talk about solar *FTC Disclosure Statement and Disclaimers:* Every video includes some form of paid promotion or sponsorship. Some links on this youtube channel may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these. My videos are for educational purposes only. Information is subject to change/update at any time. Electricity is DANGEROUS and can kill. Be smart and use common sense :) DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, An affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com
Have you ever stopped to think about how many people made the plunge into solar because of your channel? I have been wanting to get into solar for years but was always intimidated by it. This channel gave me the confidence to jump in. Thanks for that. Your teaching style is second to none. Keep it up!!!
I agree, and if you like this channel, then you should also check out ElectroBoom. He teaches a lot about electrical saftey, mostly by example of what not to do lol.
I agree! I researched for over 6 months which for me is hard to wait because I’m very impatient and normally just go for it. Not the case with what I wanted to do in Solar for our off grid RV’ing. A couple of his videos and battery break downs has definitely saved me from buying several lithium iron phosphate budget batteries.
I have to agree! I have been wanting to for years, and would have even without your channel for my off grid system. With your channel I'm going to have a high quality system and save money!
This kid is a damn UA-cam NATURAL!!!! He NEVER STOPS producing sounds from his face hole, yet EVERY SOUND is of extreme value!!!! This is the ONLY CHANNEL that gives you VAST EDUCATION // ZERO FLUFF - A+ 👍
Agreed. I am a retired electrical engineer and it is such a joy to watch this fellow and forget about everything else in the world. No one else explains things this well. Never had a professor that could do what he does.
@@bobhend10 you wouldn’t happen to be on the east coast NY/NJ/PA/CT area by any chance, would ya? I need HELP because I’m just not getting this stuff!!
Watched many videos to decide which solor panel to go with, yours topped all of them. I went with HQST panel and it performed very well. I thought about the packaging would be like what you showed but it actually had foam in the corners when it came in. Mabye they saw ur video, lol. Thank you very much for your amnest review. That's what we need with no BS. 2 thumbs up sir.
@@frankwc0o it's still going good, I'm loving it. Its putting out good amps to keep it charge. On a good sunny day, battery would be topped off and does not run down.
Excellent review. I recently added 2 NewPowa mono ($159 for 2 on Amazon Prime) panels to my 650 watt portable setup after watching this review. Lowest cost, highest output and best packaging sold me on Newpowa. My portable setup consists of 4 Renogy, 2 HQST, and a 50 watt Kyocera. I noticed your Newpowa are made in China. Mine said Vietnam. Frame is different as well as different cells. Fit and finish of the panel is excellent. No sharp burrs or rough edges. Packaging is the same, very well protected. Output rocks!....I'm getting 5.8-6.4 amps (69.6 watts-76.8 watts) winter NV sun is Awesome. 1-2 amps per panel better than my Renogy-HQST panels. I did find one difference between my Renogy-HQST that could pose a problem long term. The junction box wire connectors were soldered on my Renogy panels and crimped on my HQST. If you do another 100 watt panel test, would be helpful addition if you pop open the junction box and take a peek inside for us......:) TU for all the great videos.
Will, this is Amazing. I found your other video series a couple of years ago when my feet were screaming in pain and following your advice on treatment and shoes I resolved that problem. Now as I am researching solar for my RV, here you are again.
Interesting test ! Just precisions for curious persons (according to datasheet on the page I opened on Amazon:) 827.12 inch ² HQST 75.4W = 0.0911W/inch² 827.12 inch² Renogy 75.4W = 0.0911W/inch² 934.65 inch² Rich solar 81.7W = 0.0874W/inch² 1001.1 inch² New Powa 81.6W = 0.0815W/inch²
I went with the Newpowa for the following reasons which you helped me with. 1) Cost per width...The Newpowa is narrower that the Rich And HQST ( who cares how much distance goes horizontally?, it just goes towards the sky). 2) Output...81w vs 74W=7% more output
I picked up 8 HQST 100W panels and have been quite pleased with them. Power production in Wisconsin at midday under clear skies in early March with 8, 100W panels is peaking at 750W. I've been very impressed with them. Oh, and packaging has changed. The panels I received in Feb. of this year had dense foam corner protectors .
I studied EE at Univ. of Colo. for a couple of years and did not absorb much usable information. It cost a fortune. Your presentations give us practical, usable information in easily understood terms i.e. you discard the B/S and give us what we need. Well done Professor.
GREAT VIDEO!! I HAVE 4 RICH SOLAR PANELS, BOUGHT 4 MONTHS AGO. VERY WELL PACKAGED. I ACUALLY LIKE THE EXTRA WIEGHT OF THE PANELS. WELL BUILT, AND STURDY FOR OUTDOOR USE. STANDING UP WELL TO THE WIND , SNOW, ICE, RAIN ETC. THIS HAS BEEN A BRUTAL WINTER HERE IN MINNESOTA. PANELS DOING FINE!
Hi just wanted to say thanks for all your support you have helped me in many ways. I wanted to say that as a surprise thunderbolt panels from harbor frieght when testing in normal sunlight produced 100 to 104 watts, very impressive, of course under heavy clouds it still was pulling 20 to 30 watts. These where the folding 100 watt panels. Thanks again!
I'd love to see him review the SolArk panels. They are the only solar panels that are hardened to withstand a CME or EMP. They are probably more expensive, maybe heavier. I think they are guaranteed for 5 or 6 cycles, and each solar cycle is 11 years long. So that's 50-60 years of use. If they are built to last, the benefit would outweigh the cost of constantly replacing cheaper panels that would be fried in a CME or EMP. I'm not sure of the weight per panel, might not be suitable for RV's. Their website might say.
You have to go to Solark Webb site , I don’t think they make there own panels but build systems for your home which are EMP hardened! They have a emp test lab at there research lab in Allen , Tx
Thank you, Will. Once again you have anticipated my questions and answered them succinctly. I was not even aware of the HQST brand. I have now ordered 4 of them for my travel trailer. Thanks for sharing your expertise with those of us who are not so savvy!
Will, great review! expertly set out, set up, and explained. You're definitely the Go To Guru for all this type of equipment. Thankyou Will, best wishes from Alan, UK.
I’ve been buying renogy panels from Home Depot whenever they have sales. I used to have them delivered to my home but to many came in broken so now I have them delivered to the store in case they are broken during shipping.
What? I never comment on UA-cam videos - but - in your case, I will make the effort because you took the effort to produce simply outstanding videos. The organization, detail, accuracy, and clarity of your presentations are simply magnificent. You have helped me soo much in understanding what I need to know to design and make the best value purchases to build the solar system on my Dutch Star Motor Home. I wish you unlimited success in your future. You deserve it. Just he best!
I really appreciate the quality and thorough nature of this video. The testing was performed properly and safety under load. Additionally, the tests were run using equal operating conditions. There are other videos out there testing solar panels with a multimeter that are not under load. This can be misleading and potentially dangerous. Thank you for your videos. They are accurate and help promote safe practices.
Cause they can afford it. Very clever, gaining both sides of a newish market like that. Basic functionality/no nonsense for cheap, and then the $$$ cust Serv for the noobs. With one example being less mounting holes, you might even call custr serv. multiple times. $$$ SAME product, using the ever more popular, morph marketing. Costs are reflective of this practice in ALL things. Shop around! Peace In. Work it baby, work it .. ..
Thanks for this video. Watching your channel has taught this old dog quite a few things. I just built two of the prismatic lipo batteries for my motor home and all that I need are the solar panels and a mppt solar charge controller.
When I started years ago I used Renogy mono panels and then I switched to HQST panels mono. Now I just use HQST poly panels without problems. I have noticed that the Renogy and the HQST panels performed the same for the last few years with same dimensions. I think that both panels are from the same manufacturer and they just put different labels on them. I test my panels individual with my voltmeter having them disconnected from the solar system to get an accurate assessment.
Love the hard work you put in to make the comparison equal. Prefer the larger panels for the amount of power, but can't argue with your views. Awesome. Thanks Matt, a brit from across the pond where we done see much sun
Will can you please do an updated video on your take for internet options for nomads and such. With the recent Verizon unlimited package I would love to know your take on it. Thank you so much for your informative videos. Appreciate your hard work in creating these teaching vids.
Now in June 2022 HQST & Renogy 100w panels are just about the same price now on Amazon. I had already ordered Renogy before I watched htis video and will probably just stick with Renogy panels. Good video Will.
Will you do a great job with your videos. Not sure what your education is but your knowledge is very extensive. I particularly like your ethical position on buying the products with your own funds. It shows that you are truly unbiased. I am sure I will criticized for pointing out you grammar error but "these ones" is incorrect. Keep up the good work!
Hey dude I'm super impressed with your knowledge and level of detail you go into with these solar comparison videos. Thanks for all the time and money you put into your videos. Just subscribed.
Power per sq ft is a great metric especially if you are moving your building to Net Zero. Typically there is just enough roof area to generate enough power to go to NZ. If you can squeeze an additional few panels on the roof it may make the difference between hitting NZ or not.
pretty sure i read that renogy buys product (panels, charge controllers, etc.) and puts their name on them. this video, and one on charge controllers, kinda proves that.
I bought one of the Renogy panels a month ago. It arrived poorly packaged (just foam in front of the glass like the HQST in your video). I also saw that the stickers on it were applied badly and had large wrinkles/bubbles as well as caulking was smeared all over. It was bad enough I contacted them to verify it was actually one of their panels and not a cheap knockoff. They confirmed it was legit.. Now seeing the results from your video I'm guessing Renogy and HQST are made/packaged in the same factory with just a different label on them. I'll be buying whatever is cheapest from here on out.
Which makes sense given that Renogy is supposed to be an American company…they’re getting the panels somewhere? Plus they’re more expensive than the rest hands down. The Newpowa’s can be bought under $75’ish..
I Purchased 2 100W HQST panels. One of them failed and they wouldn't warranty them for me. I then purchased 2 panels on ebay from fred480. They are US made and much heavier and a better output. They are made by High Tech Solar from Michigan City, Indiana.
@Clay Michael Is it this one: rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_id=114&ipn=icep&toolid=20004&campid=5338408166&mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fp%2F3-165-Watt-12-Volt-Battery-Charger-Solar-Panel-off-Grid-RV-Boat-495-Watt-Total%2F1353019783
Please do a partial shadow test. They will perform differently. Also, you can tilt them at different angles to the sun. The panel coating will react differently to the incident angle, and will give different readings.
I literally had the Renogy kit in my Amazon shopping cart. After watching your comparison, I've bought the HQST and saved money. Thank you for taking the time to review the different products.
Same! PLOT TWIST: Though I am seriously considering buying his ebook on setting up off-grid solar systems. I am repowering a sailboat with diesel engine to an solar-powered electric motor and really need good info.
Thank you for providing us with all this information and you always explain it so well. I have a question that might seem irrelevant. Where are HQST panels made? Are there any American\Canadian PV panels produced with these same results? I always try to support either countries when ever possible but of course we can never completely avoid the other producers.
Great test! I was wondering if another test, say on a light overcast day, weak sunshine would make any sense. I heard some types of panels do better than others on days of weak or no direct sunshine. Thanks.
Hi Will and thanks for sharing your expertise. Just an FYI: My Rich Solar panels have been very well packaged, so I was surprised by your experience receiving panels. I ordered my R Solar panels directly, vs via Amazon.
That was interesting, Will. Now, can u please do the same testing format for flexible or semi-flexible solar panes since does are more appealing to a lot of people as well. U ROCK🤘Will. Awesome channel.
I actually just bought two of the 100 watt HQST panels the other day for my van build. Getting them in Tuesday. Glad to see I chose correctly. Especially with the size. I was gonna get some 235 watt Kyocera panels but they measure 63" long. That's half my van roof and I couldn't have them side by side so I had to find smaller panels. Kinda forgot that they're rated for 100 watts but only put out like 70 but oh well. Live and learn.
Thanks for this test, you can do a test with panels of the same power but amorphous vs. monocrystalline, both in axis with the sun and off-axis? Thank you
I bought three 100 Watt Renogy panels for black Friday sales (2022). All three shipped FROM HQST out of Houston. All three have the HQST aluminum frame shown in your video. But- All three have Renogy labeling and serial numbers. One of them had a shipping issue, in which Renogy corrected the error via customer support (validating they ARE Renogy brand). I think there is a mixture of the companies on a level not disclosed.
"I thought I'd mention it because if I don't I know someone will bring it up in the comment section." ….You give us waaaaay too much credit Will, lol!! ;D Great video as always! -PJ
Will, great job on your unbiased comparison. I do business with HQST often. You only prove me right when I tell my friends to go HQST and not Harbor Freight.
Not worth the hassles. The water has to be circulated and that uses up the energy that cooling gains. For a big utility scale system it would be worth it. But what benefits even more is to have the panels track the sun as it moves across the sky. Another way is to put the panels above bushes or plants which help cool the air above them.
Thank You Will , I was about to purchase the Jackery 1500 but got the EF Delta instead. It runs everything in my RV C Class for back up Power Staton. I have a Jackery 240 and almost settled for their 1000. You are the Electrical Guru !!!!
Great video as always, keep up the good work! Curious why you didn’t include in the video the power specs of each panel for comparison such as voltage and amperage ratings. Also if the larger panels (size) are producing more watts in the same sunlight as the smaller panels, why would you dismiss them from being recommended? They’re going to net more power then the smaller ones in the same conditions?
*Does off-grid solar confuse you?*
Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system packages and product recommendations, and so much more! www.mobile-solarpower.com
*Join our DIY solar community!*
#1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike:
www.diysolarforum.com
Check out my best-selling, beginner-friendly 12V off-grid solar book (affiliate link):
amzn.to/2Aj4dX4
If DIY is not for you, but you love solar and need an offgrid system, check out EnergyPal! They will price out a system and get your house offgrid: energypal.com/diysolar/
*My Solar Equipment Recommendations (Constantly updated! Check here first):*
12V/48V Lithium Batteries: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-batteries.html
Solar System Component Directory: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solarcomponents.html
Complete 48V System Blueprint: www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v-complete-system-blueprint.html
Plug-N-Play Systems: www.mobile-solarpower.com/full-size-systems.html
Complete 48V System Kits: www.mobile-solarpower.com/complete-48v-solar-kits.html
DIY Friendly Air Conditioner/ Heat Pumps: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-friendly-air-conditioners.html
*My Favorite Online Stores for DIY Solar Products:*
*Signature Solar*
Offgrid One-Stop-Shop. Best Value 48V LiFePO4, Victron and Offgrid Specific Heat Pumps:
www.signaturesolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek
*Current Connected*
SOK, Victron, Mr.Cool Heatpumps and High Quality Components:
currentconnected.com/?ref=wp
*Ecoflow Delta*
My favorite plug-n-play solar generator:
us.ecoflow.com/?aff=7
*AmpereTime*
Cheapest 12V batteries around:
amperetime.com/products/ampere-time-12v-100ah-lithium-lifepo4-battery?ref=h-cvbzfahsek
*Renogy*
A classic 12V solar store that has been around for ages!
renogy.sjv.io/n1VjXx
*Rich Solar*
Renogy's biggest competitor! Similar products, but at a better price:
richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek
*Battery Hookup*
Cheap cell deals
bit.ly/2mIxSqt
5% off code: diysolar
*Contact Information:*
I am NOT available for personal solar system consult! If you wish to contact me, this is my direct email: williamprowsediysolar@gmail.com
Join the forum at diysolarforum.com/ if you wish to hang out with myself and others and talk about solar
*FTC Disclosure Statement and Disclaimers:*
Every video includes some form of paid promotion or sponsorship. Some links on this youtube channel may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these. My videos are for educational purposes only. Information is subject to change/update at any time. Electricity is DANGEROUS and can kill. Be smart and use common sense :)
DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program,
An affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com
Have you ever stopped to think about how many people made the plunge into solar because of your channel? I have been wanting to get into solar for years but was always intimidated by it. This channel gave me the confidence to jump in. Thanks for that. Your teaching style is second to none. Keep it up!!!
Q
I agree, and if you like this channel, then you should also check out ElectroBoom. He teaches a lot about electrical saftey, mostly by example of what not to do lol.
I agree! I researched for over 6 months which for me is hard to wait because I’m very impatient and normally just go for it. Not the case with what I wanted to do in Solar for our off grid RV’ing. A couple of his videos and battery break downs has definitely saved me from buying several lithium iron phosphate budget batteries.
I have to agree!
I have been wanting to for years, and would have even without your channel for my off grid system.
With your channel I'm going to have a high quality system and save money!
My husband now is ready to try too, thanks to Will.
This kid is a damn UA-cam NATURAL!!!! He NEVER STOPS producing sounds from his face hole, yet EVERY SOUND is of extreme value!!!! This is the ONLY CHANNEL that gives you VAST EDUCATION // ZERO FLUFF - A+ 👍
Agreed. I am a retired electrical engineer and it is such a joy to watch this fellow and forget about everything else in the world. No one else explains things this well. Never had a professor that could do what he does.
@@bobhend10 you wouldn’t happen to be on the east coast NY/NJ/PA/CT area by any chance, would ya? I need HELP because I’m just not getting this stuff!!
He's amazing. I love this channel so much!
I love this comment. The second sentence is gold. Hilarious and spot on!
Lots of edits. Always good info,, no fluff.
Bought direct from Amazon to stop them sending their tested and best panels. Thank you for doing this.
I received a renogy panel through amazon with no mounting bracket holes.
That was badass!
An updated video on this same subject would be great.
Most of these companies have changed their design multiple times.
True
Watched many videos to decide which solor panel to go with, yours topped all of them. I went with HQST panel and it performed very well. I thought about the packaging would be like what you showed but it actually had foam in the corners when it came in. Mabye they saw ur video, lol. Thank you very much for your amnest review. That's what we need with no BS. 2 thumbs up sir.
honesty is the best policy
@@frankwc0o it's still going good, I'm loving it. Its putting out good amps to keep it charge. On a good sunny day, battery would be topped off and does not run down.
i went with hqst over a year ago and have been very impressed by how much output there is even on cloudy days
Excellent review. I recently added 2 NewPowa mono ($159 for 2 on Amazon Prime) panels to my 650 watt portable setup after watching this review. Lowest cost, highest output and best packaging sold me on Newpowa. My portable setup consists of 4 Renogy, 2 HQST, and a 50 watt Kyocera. I noticed your Newpowa are made in China. Mine said Vietnam. Frame is different as well as different cells. Fit and finish of the panel is excellent. No sharp burrs or rough edges. Packaging is the same, very well protected. Output rocks!....I'm getting 5.8-6.4 amps (69.6 watts-76.8 watts) winter NV sun is Awesome. 1-2 amps per panel better than my Renogy-HQST panels.
I did find one difference between my Renogy-HQST that could pose a problem long term. The junction box wire connectors were soldered on my Renogy panels and crimped on my HQST. If you do another 100 watt panel test, would be helpful addition if you pop open the junction box and take a peek inside for us......:) TU for all the great videos.
Will, this is Amazing. I found your other video series a couple of years ago when my feet were screaming in pain and following your advice on treatment and shoes I resolved that problem.
Now as I am researching solar for my RV, here you are again.
No way!!! That's so cool to hear. Foot pain to solar, I got you covered haha
Man, i love how specific and relevant your tests are and data is, thank you for all your hard work
Outstanding, clear, concise and thorough testing with a no-nonsense approach. Kudos!
Interesting test !
Just precisions for curious persons (according to datasheet on the page I opened on Amazon:)
827.12 inch ² HQST 75.4W = 0.0911W/inch²
827.12 inch² Renogy 75.4W = 0.0911W/inch²
934.65 inch² Rich solar 81.7W = 0.0874W/inch²
1001.1 inch² New Powa 81.6W = 0.0815W/inch²
Thank You!!! This is the information that Will should have included, and what I was looking for.
I went with the Newpowa for the following reasons which you helped me with.
1) Cost per width...The Newpowa is narrower that the Rich And HQST ( who cares how much distance goes horizontally?, it just goes towards the sky).
2) Output...81w vs 74W=7% more output
william Gebhardt exactly, I don’t see the draw back of any of those outputs?
Love how you nailed all the parameters to produce a genuine comparison
Awesome! I bought 2 hqst panels a couple months back and couldn't be happier. Thanks for the video Will!
I'm addicted to these videos. I'm gaining so much knowledge. Thanks for all of this information.
Just about the best review of ANYTHING that I’ve watched !
I picked up 8 HQST 100W panels and have been quite pleased with them. Power production in Wisconsin at midday under clear skies in early March with 8, 100W panels is peaking at 750W. I've been very impressed with them. Oh, and packaging has changed. The panels I received in Feb. of this year had dense foam corner protectors .
I studied EE at Univ. of Colo. for a couple of years and did not absorb much usable information. It cost a fortune. Your presentations give us practical, usable information in easily understood terms i.e. you discard the B/S and give us what we need. Well done Professor.
I LOVE THE DEPTH if information and the fact your still straight to the point
GREAT VIDEO!! I HAVE 4 RICH SOLAR PANELS, BOUGHT 4 MONTHS AGO. VERY WELL PACKAGED. I ACUALLY LIKE THE EXTRA WIEGHT OF THE PANELS. WELL BUILT, AND STURDY FOR OUTDOOR USE. STANDING UP WELL TO THE WIND , SNOW, ICE, RAIN ETC. THIS HAS BEEN A BRUTAL WINTER HERE IN MINNESOTA. PANELS DOING FINE!
Excellent unbiased review! Like how you just ordered directly through Amazon without telling them you were a pro reviewer.
Hi just wanted to say thanks for all your support you have helped me in many ways. I wanted to say that as a surprise thunderbolt panels from harbor frieght when testing in normal sunlight produced 100 to 104 watts, very impressive, of course under heavy clouds it still was pulling 20 to 30 watts. These where the folding 100 watt panels. Thanks again!
Thank you so much for making this video. My wife and I are trying to decide what brand to buy and this was extremely helpful!!
Got to love Will: "... cheap Chinese stuff " in so many videos, in reference to components, connections, built, etc. Thanks for your honesty, Will.
Good test Will. I believe HQST does, or used to, manufacture panels for Renogy. If true then it makes sense that they are probably the same.
I believe they are sourced in China.
@@tjhouston4916 Oh yeah. Pretty sure HQST is a Chinese company.
I love the wood skid idea for testing. Great idea. Thank you for the videos 👍👍
Really good video Will, I can't think of anyone else doing a direct comparison like this :)
Project farm
Thankyou for not wasting time and getting right to the info.
Perfect timing, Will. I was planning to purchase solar panels this week and you did my homework for me. You rock!
That's so awesome!
I'd love to see him review the SolArk panels. They are the only solar panels that are hardened to withstand a CME or EMP. They are probably more expensive, maybe heavier. I think they are guaranteed for 5 or 6 cycles, and each solar cycle is 11 years long. So that's 50-60 years of use. If they are built to last, the benefit would outweigh the cost of constantly replacing cheaper panels that would be fried in a CME or EMP.
I'm not sure of the weight per panel, might not be suitable for RV's. Their website might say.
@@recoveringsoul755 I am not finding the SolArk panels anywhere. Do you have a link?
You have to go to Solark Webb site , I don’t think they make there own panels but build systems for your home which are EMP hardened! They have a emp test lab at there research lab in Allen , Tx
Thank you, Will. Once again you have anticipated my questions and answered them succinctly. I was not even aware of the HQST brand. I have now ordered 4 of them for my travel trailer. Thanks for sharing your expertise with those of us who are not so savvy!
Nice hat from the solar expert. Thanks for shedding light. I still hope to do that interview with you next time I get to San Diego.
I drove a 67 firebird ragtop and the sun will kill you.
@@chriseudy4684 These days the Cosmic Rays have increased, and not a hat or a mile of dirt will protect you.
I have hqst panels and they work just fine! Very happy with my purchase!
Will, great review! expertly set out, set up, and explained. You're definitely the Go To Guru for all this type of equipment. Thankyou Will, best wishes from Alan, UK.
Will, Thanks for taking the time and spending the money to put together this comparison for us. Very much appreciated.
I’ve been buying renogy panels from Home Depot whenever they have sales. I used to have them delivered to my home but to many came in broken so now I have them delivered to the store in case they are broken during shipping.
You have the best content, concise, intelligent and non biased… thank you for the hard work you put into providing us with such great knowledge!
Thanks :)
I really appreciate the testing that you do. I have been debating which ones to buy, and you just made my day. Thank you
What? I never comment on UA-cam videos - but - in your case, I will make the effort because you took the effort to produce simply outstanding videos. The organization, detail, accuracy, and clarity of your presentations are simply magnificent. You have helped me soo much in understanding what I need to know to design and make the best value purchases to build the solar system on my Dutch Star Motor Home. I wish you unlimited success in your future. You deserve it. Just he best!
Does he breath? I want a panel that give me the same amount of energy that he has
I love his passion and enthusiasm.
vidinman great comment!
Breathe and breath are dif. Breathe is a verb. Breath is a noun. Answer, yes he breathes and is very clever. Oh to be young again!
I plugged oxygen free copper wires in to Will and powered my whole house and sold electricity back to the grid.
@@syzygysyzygy8332 love these comments lol..
I really appreciate the quality and thorough nature of this video. The testing was performed properly and safety under load. Additionally, the tests were run using equal operating conditions. There are other videos out there testing solar panels with a multimeter that are not under load. This can be misleading and potentially dangerous. Thank you for your videos. They are accurate and help promote safe practices.
Hi Will. Another variable would be customer service. Renogy always gets high marks for theirs.
Cause they can afford it.
Very clever, gaining both sides of a newish market like that.
Basic functionality/no nonsense for cheap, and then the $$$ cust Serv for the noobs.
With one example being less mounting holes, you might even call custr serv. multiple times. $$$
SAME product, using the ever more popular, morph marketing.
Costs are reflective of this practice in ALL things. Shop around!
Peace In.
Work it baby, work it .. ..
Thanks for this video. Watching your channel has taught this old dog quite a few things. I just built two of the prismatic lipo batteries for my motor home and all that I need are the solar panels and a mppt solar charge controller.
When I started years ago I used Renogy mono panels and then I switched to HQST panels mono. Now I just use HQST poly panels without problems.
I have noticed that the Renogy and the HQST panels performed the same for the last few years with same dimensions. I think that both panels are from the same manufacturer and they just put different labels on them.
I test my panels individual with my voltmeter having them disconnected from the solar system to get an accurate assessment.
I bought 3 HQST 100w panels and all were well packaged with foam corners. Great video thanks.
Dude!!! Your video... IS EXCELLENT!!! Exactly what I was looking for and so helpful! Best wish for future videos!
Love the hard work you put in to make the comparison equal. Prefer the larger panels for the amount of power, but can't argue with your views. Awesome. Thanks Matt, a brit from across the pond where we done see much sun
I saw it last Tuesday, oh wait a minute perhaps I dreamed that 🤔👍🏻🇬🇧
Will, you are THE solar Goto guy! Thanks
I got the renology 200w suitcase panel on black friday sale for $200, definitely happy with my purchase after seeing this video
Very useful video and carried out in an unbiased fashion. Quality review!
LOVE your videos! You're my new "go to" guy for unbiased and quantitative analysis and testing of this stuff!
Will can you please do an updated video on your take for internet options for nomads and such. With the recent Verizon unlimited package I would love to know your take on it. Thank you so much for your informative videos. Appreciate your hard work in creating these teaching vids.
Now in June 2022 HQST & Renogy 100w panels are just about the same price now on Amazon. I had already ordered Renogy before I watched htis video and will probably just stick with Renogy panels. Good video Will.
Will, your videos and information are top notch.
SCIENCE!!!! Excellent work! Thanks for the super helpful video!
Congratulations! Excelent analysis. Thank you very much.
Will you do a great job with your videos. Not sure what your education is but your knowledge is very extensive. I particularly like your ethical position on buying the products with your own funds. It shows that you are truly unbiased. I am sure I will criticized for pointing out you grammar error but "these ones" is incorrect. Keep up the good work!
Murphy Squint Irony. “you grammar error”
@@xReaperx5 Wanted to make sure soomeone was paying attention. I also left out a comma after Will's name in the first line but you missed that one.
🤣👍
Hey dude I'm super impressed with your knowledge and level of detail you go into with these solar comparison videos. Thanks for all the time and money you put into your videos. Just subscribed.
Thanks man!!
If someone only wants to buy one panel, they should go with the higher output panel. Size isn’t always the constraint. Great video!
Good, consistent, unbiased (mostly) review! The Renogy is only $90 on Amazon now. Thanks!
Thanks for this video Will!
You have been a God send for my project next year.
You should add a cost of power per square inch per year calculation. That would take into account the variance of cost, size, and service life.
I was thinking of a watt per sq ft calculation per panel.
This. I think it incorrect to say the hqst and renogy are better without calculating the power per square cm.
You mean bananas per rectangle toes, right?
Power per sq ft is a great metric especially if you are moving your building to Net Zero. Typically there is just enough roof area to generate enough power to go to NZ. If you can squeeze an additional few panels on the roof it may make the difference between hitting NZ or not.
nice and short with no Bullshit, thanks for making a handy video and not 1 hour movie.
Thanks a lot
I got 4 NewPowa panels and I actually really like them!
I have 8 and so far so good. If you have the space, they seem to be a great deal. Let's see how they hold up over time.
Love the unbiased science. Please keep it up. You are The Man!
You look like a solar panel farmer with that hat :)😁sweet dude :)👍👍👍
You could be a farmer in those clothes...
@@epicdeuce LOL,, He's struggling farmer,, so maybe solar Cropping
Lol
Billy bob farmer diy y’all
Great news since I had just bought 4 HQST 160 Watt Panels for my RV!
I know the flexible panels aren't great but would love a comparison on those. I need flexible for portable and not sure best ones to get.
I was totally set on getting Renogy panels until I watched this video. Thanks for changing my mind and saving me money!
pretty sure i read that renogy buys product (panels, charge controllers, etc.) and puts their name on them. this video, and one on charge controllers, kinda proves that.
@@nonyabizness.original whose charge controllers do they rebrand? Was looking at the Rover 40 amp mppt
I bought one of the Renogy panels a month ago. It arrived poorly packaged (just foam in front of the glass like the HQST in your video). I also saw that the stickers on it were applied badly and had large wrinkles/bubbles as well as caulking was smeared all over. It was bad enough I contacted them to verify it was actually one of their panels and not a cheap knockoff. They confirmed it was legit.. Now seeing the results from your video I'm guessing Renogy and HQST are made/packaged in the same factory with just a different label on them. I'll be buying whatever is cheapest from here on out.
Which makes sense given that Renogy is supposed to be an American company…they’re getting the panels somewhere?
Plus they’re more expensive than the rest hands down. The Newpowa’s can be bought under $75’ish..
Just got the Rich Solar panel. Arrived fine & puts out the power. 22+ dc volts out, without a load. Give you more, when I get the system set up.
I Purchased 2 100W HQST panels. One of them failed and they wouldn't warranty them for me. I then purchased 2 panels on ebay from fred480. They are US made and much heavier and a better output. They are made by High Tech Solar from Michigan City, Indiana.
dude. this is awesome!!! those prices are insanely good
Good to know
@Clay Michael Is it this one: rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_id=114&ipn=icep&toolid=20004&campid=5338408166&mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fp%2F3-165-Watt-12-Volt-Battery-Charger-Solar-Panel-off-Grid-RV-Boat-495-Watt-Total%2F1353019783
@Clay Michael they seem amazing!!! I want to check them out
I think HQST is a recall of Renogy. 🤔.
I just seen on Q&A on Amazon HQST page 100w flexible solar panel.
Just the info I needed for an upcoming camper project. You're very well informed and get to the point. It's much appreciated.
Please do a partial shadow test. They will perform differently.
Also, you can tilt them at different angles to the sun. The panel coating will react differently to the incident angle, and will give different readings.
Yes, please do a partial shading test, e.g. shade one cell. I've read this causes very different power results on different panels.
THANK YOU! This is helping so many people get the most for their money.
Prowse, you're too cool for school. Thanks for the amazing info as usual.
I literally had the Renogy kit in my Amazon shopping cart. After watching your comparison, I've bought the HQST and saved money. Thank you for taking the time to review the different products.
Ok.. I'm starting to feel like I owe you money.
Same!
PLOT TWIST: Though I am seriously considering buying his ebook on setting up off-grid solar systems. I am repowering a sailboat with diesel engine to an solar-powered electric motor and really need good info.
This video is so very useful. Your testing assessments are well constructed and thorough.
Thank you for providing us with all this information and you always explain it so well. I have a question that might seem irrelevant. Where are HQST panels made? Are there any American\Canadian PV panels produced with these same results? I always try to support either countries when ever possible but of course we can never completely avoid the other producers.
I already have HQST before I discovered this video. Now I'm double satisfied :)
Can you do a review on solar panels sold from Aliexpress? Their products are usually less expensive.
Great video Will. Both of your solar panel comparison videos prove that more surface area generates more power.
Great test! I was wondering if another test, say on a light overcast day, weak sunshine would make any sense. I heard some types of panels do better than others on days of weak or no direct sunshine. Thanks.
I use the smaller panels he tested. On a cloudy day here in Florida. I get about 7 watts per solar panel.
@@jj-bz8ry damn thats shitty what about in storms? im in ohio i think im screwed for the winter
Hi Will and thanks for sharing your expertise. Just an FYI: My Rich Solar panels have been very well packaged, so I was surprised by your experience receiving panels. I ordered my R Solar panels directly, vs via Amazon.
How about testing the SUNPOWER panels please.
That was interesting, Will.
Now, can u please do the same testing format for flexible or semi-flexible solar panes since does are more appealing to a lot of people as well. U ROCK🤘Will. Awesome channel.
I actually just bought two of the 100 watt HQST panels the other day for my van build. Getting them in Tuesday. Glad to see I chose correctly. Especially with the size. I was gonna get some 235 watt Kyocera panels but they measure 63" long. That's half my van roof and I couldn't have them side by side so I had to find smaller panels. Kinda forgot that they're rated for 100 watts but only put out like 70 but oh well. Live and learn.
Thanks for this test, you can do a test with panels of the same power but amorphous vs. monocrystalline, both in axis with the sun and off-axis?
Thank you
I bought three 100 Watt Renogy panels for black Friday sales (2022).
All three shipped FROM HQST out of Houston.
All three have the HQST aluminum frame shown in your video. But-
All three have Renogy labeling and serial numbers. One of them had a shipping issue, in which Renogy corrected the error via customer support (validating they ARE Renogy brand). I think there is a mixture of the companies on a level not disclosed.
"I thought I'd mention it because if I don't I know someone will bring it up in the comment section." ….You give us waaaaay too much credit Will, lol!! ;D Great video as always! -PJ
..I'm still looking for where the Sun lives.....
Man, I’m glad I watched your video, I’m a Renogy fan for a few years now and they perform really well, but just ordered HQST, so much cheaper.
Should I invest in a inverter with recharge capacity?
Will, great job on your unbiased comparison. I do business with HQST often. You only prove me right when I tell my friends to go HQST and not Harbor Freight.
Could you try to make a water cooled cooling system for a panel, I’m sure it would be awesome!
Not worth the hassles. The water has to be circulated and that uses up the energy that cooling gains. For a big utility scale system it would be worth it. But what benefits even more is to have the panels track the sun as it moves across the sky. Another way is to put the panels above bushes or plants which help cool the air above them.
@@acmefixer1 ok, thx
Thank You Will , I was about to purchase the Jackery 1500 but got the EF Delta instead. It runs everything in my RV C Class for back up Power Staton. I have a Jackery 240 and almost settled for their 1000. You are the Electrical Guru !!!!
Nice hat 😁 Great video too, as always......
Great video Will. This is the second time I watched this and I appreciate all the hard work you did in testing fairly.
Great video as always, keep up the good work! Curious why you didn’t include in the video the power specs of each panel for comparison such as voltage and amperage ratings. Also if the larger panels (size) are producing more watts in the same sunlight as the smaller panels, why would you dismiss them from being recommended? They’re going to net more power then the smaller ones in the same conditions?
Dude, great job on breaking the facts down man. Much appreciate this video and perhaps many other ones from you too. Thanks!