Choosing the right solar panels is one of the most important decisions when investing in a solar PV system. With so many options available, which panels are the best?
At SolarTherm UK, we work with trusted brands, that offer high efficiency, strong warranties and have proven reliability. In this article, we’ll compare six of the most popular brands we have installed: Aiko, SunPower Maxeon, Trina Solar, JA Solar, Amerisolar and DMEGC.
Aiko Solar Panels
Aiko Solar is known for it’s cutting-edge All Back Contact technology, maximising efficiency and aesthetics. The panels have no front busbars, giving them a sleek black look and excellent light absorption.
- Efficiency: up to 22.3% depending on the selected panel
- Output: 440W to 460W range
- Warranty: 25-year product warranty with a 30 year performance warranty
- Best for: homeowners looking for premium performance and all-black panels
- Pros: high efficiency, modern design, long lifespan
- Cons: more costly compared to other brands
SunPower Maxeon
SunPower Maxeon panels are widely regarded as the most efficient solar panels on the market. Built with unique Maxeon cell technology, they are designed to deliver maximum energy over decades.
- Efficiency: up to 22.8%
- Output: 445W to 510W range
- Warranty: 40-year product and performance warranty
- Best for: customers who want higher efficiency and long warranties
- Pros: premium performance, outstanding durability and unmatched warranty
- Cons: more expensive than most other brands
Trina Solar
Trina Solar is one of the largest solar panel manufacturers in the world. They are a reliable mid-range option for homeowners. Their Vertex S series offers strong performance and value for money.
- Efficiency: up to22.5%
- Output: 425W to 510W range
- Warranty: 15-25-year product warranty and 25-year performance warranty
- Best for: homeowners looking to strike a balance between affordability and efficiency
- Pros: excellent value for money, strong global reputation and a reliable performance
- Cons: slightly less efficient than premium panels
JA Solar
JA Solar is a global giant popular for affordability and quality. Known for their half-cut cell technology, JA Solar panels perform well in partial shading.
- Efficiency: 20-21%
- Output: 430W to 455W range
- Warranty: 12–15-year product warranty and 25-year performance warranty
- Best for: budget-conscious households who still want solid quality
- Pros: affordability, durability and good shade tolerance
- Cons: lower warranty compared to premium brands
Amerisolar
Amerisolar is a US-based manufacturer with production lines worldwide. They offer cost-effective panels with a competitive warranty.
- Efficiency: 19-21%
- Output: 390W to 410W range
- Warranty: 12-20-year product warranty with a 25-30-year performance warranty (dependant on model)
- Best for: homeowners looking for a lower-cost solar solution
- Pros: affordability, decent warranty, wide availability
- Cons: lower efficiency
DMEGC
DMEGS Solar is part of the Hengdian Group, a major global manufacturer of solar panels. Their panels are reliable, offer consistent performance and are affordable. Relatively new on the UK market but proving to be a growing popular option for their high-performance and state-of-the-art technology.
- Efficiency: 20-21%
- Output: 395W to 405W range
- Warranty: 12-15-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty
- Best for: solid, affordable panels with a proven reliability
- Pros: cost-effective, reliable and widely certified
- Cons: lower efficiency
Which Solar Panel Brand Should You Choose?
- If you want the highest efficiency and sleek design → Choose Aiko
- If you want the very best warranty and performance → Choose SunPower Maxeon
- If you want a trusted balance of cost and quality → Choose Trina Solar
- If you want affordable but reliable panels → Choose JA Solar or DMEGC
- If you want the lowest upfront cost → Choose Amerisolar
At SolarTherm UK, we supply and install all of these leading brands. Our experts will recommend the best options based on your budget, roof space, shading and long-term energy goals.
Ready to Start Your Solar Journey?
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free bespoke design package, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
At SolarTherm UK, we do the research so you don’t have to.
