This review delves into the Vivo 50 Amp MPPT solar charge controller, a budget-friendly option aiming to deliver powerful performance without breaking the bank. We examine its physical build, ease of use, and performance characteristics, comparing it directly against a more established competitor, the Victron 100/20 amp controller. Key features such as its robust construction, intuitive mobile app for control and monitoring, and impressive response time are explored in detail. The review also addresses potential drawbacks, including slightly lower efficiency compared to higher-end models and the controller's rebadged nature.Our assessment covers the installation process, the functionality of the accompanying "Solar App," and the controller's overall performance in real-world testing. We analyze the data collected to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Vivo controller's strengths and weaknesses, allowing readers to make an informed decision based on their specific needs and budget. The concluding remarks offer a balanced perspective, weighing the controller's cost-effectiveness against its slight efficiency deficit, ultimately determining whether it’s a worthwhile investment for budget-conscious solar energy users.
Pros And Cons
- Weighs 1.33 kg
- Measures 183 mm L x 125 mm W x 70 mm H
- Easy access connector block with quality screw connection
- Clearly marked negative terminals (safety feature)
- Can handle 6 AWG cable (rated for 50 amps)
- Includes LEDs for solar, battery, and battery set information
- Easy-to-read battery type display
- Mobile app configuration is simple
- Substantial heat sink for heat dissipation
- Screw holes for service mounting
- Bluetooth connectivity for app control
- Excellent electronic protection
- Cost-effective
- Good Bluetooth range
- Lack of load connection
- App not straightforward to find (no dedicated Vivor app)
- Slightly less efficient than a Victron 100/20 amp controller in testing (3-5 watts lower output)
- May be a rebadged version from other Chinese sites, potentially lacking quick shipping, good customer service, warranty, or technical support
Read more: OUKITEL P2001 PLUS Review: Best Budget Portable Power Station?
Unboxing and Physical Overview
The Vivo 50 Amp solar charge controller is a substantial piece of equipment, weighing in at a reassuring 1.33 kg. Its dimensions are 183 mm long, 125 mm wide, and 70 mm tall, indicating a robust build. The design is similar to other controllers on the market, suggesting it may share a common manufacturing origin. The top features easily accessible screw connections for the connector block, ensuring convenient installation and maintenance.
Features and Specifications
The controller boasts three LEDs for solar, battery, and system status, providing clear visual feedback. These indicators display vital information regarding the solar array, battery status, and battery type, enhancing monitoring and troubleshooting capabilities. Notably, the negative terminals are clearly marked and adjacent for safety reasons. The unit also includes sockets for a temperature probe, a communication port, and a reset button, indicating further functionalities.
The controller is designed to handle 6 AWG cables rated for 50 amps, ensuring compatibility with high-capacity solar systems. It features a substantial heat sink to help manage heat buildup and prevent overheating during operation. The unit is also designed for mounting, either vertically or horizontally.
A key feature is the absence of a load connection, a common characteristic among similar controllers. This design choice simplifies the system configuration while maintaining sufficient charging capabilities.
Mobile App Configuration
Setting up the Vivo controller is straightforward via its dedicated mobile application, accessible through a QR code in the manual. The app, named 'Solar App', allows for easy configuration of various settings including battery type (Lead-acid or Lithium). This simplifies the setup process and eliminates the need for manual adjustments on the controller itself.
The app provides real-time monitoring of system performance, displaying essential parameters such as voltage, current, and temperature. It also provides a history log which tracks various metrics including power generation, charge cycles, and over-discharge incidents, offering comprehensive data for analysis and troubleshooting. Advanced users can even customize various charging characteristics within the app, though caution is advised.
Firmware updates can be performed through the app, although the process isn’t as simple as over-the-air updates. The app is basic but functional, with clear visuals and easy-to-navigate menus.
Performance Comparison and Testing
In a performance test against a Victron 100/20 amp solar charge controller, using a 160-watt test panel, the Vivo controller showed slightly lower efficiency (around 2-3%). This may be attributed to differences in MPPT algorithms or inherent inefficiencies in the 50-amp design compared to a smaller 20-amp controller. However, the Vivo exhibited faster response time reaching maximum output within seconds, while the Victron took several minutes. While the difference is minimal in real-world conditions, the more expensive Victron was more efficient.
Additional research is needed to determine if the lower efficiency is due to the increased capacity or other factors. It is important to note that the Vivo controller is a rebadged version of a controller found on other Chinese sites at lower prices. The main difference lies in the customer service and warranty provided by Vivo, therefore purchasing from Vivo carries greater risk.
Conclusion: Should You Buy It?
The Vivo 50 Amp MPPT solar charge controller presents a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers. While slightly less efficient than higher-end models like the Victron, it offers comparable performance with a significantly lower price tag (approximately 60% cheaper). The faster response time and robust Bluetooth connectivity are also advantages. The substantial build quality and inclusive warranty provided directly from Vivo also provides an added layer of reassurance.
Overall, if you're looking for an affordable 50-amp solar charge controller with a user-friendly mobile app and reliable performance, the Vivo model is worth considering. However, be aware of the rebadged nature of the product and the potential cost savings (and risk) of purchasing from alternative Chinese vendors. The Vivro's advantages are its cost-effectiveness, decent functionality and warranty support. The Victron controller, however, holds the edge in terms of efficiency.