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50 watt portable solar panels are designed to be used with a battery of either 12V, 24V, 36V or 48 volts. They are manufactured and tested to the same standard as any other solar panel size. Their charging capabilities are not as great as larger sized panels.
But a 50 watt can do a good job if paired with the right size of battery. And are fine for keeping large batteries topped off. They are made in the usual four varieties: rigid, flexible, suitcase and soft foldable. In this best of post I will be presenting all four types of 12V monocrystalline portable solar panel.
If you feel like you just want to jump straight to the type of solar panel you want to know about. You can use the quick jump menu below;
Quick Jump Menu
| Best 50 Watt Rigid Solar Panel | Newpowa 50 Watt 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel |
| Best 50 Watt Flexible Solar Panel | Renogy 50 Watt 12V Flexible Moncrystalline Solar Panel |
| Best 50 Watt Soft Foldable Portable Solar Panel | ACOPOWER 50 Watt Foldable Solar Panel |
| Best 50 Watt Portable Solar Briefcase | Renogy E.Flex 50 Portable Solar Panel |
Table of Contents
What Are The Best 50 Watt 12V Portable Solar Panels?
“It all depends on what you want to use the 50 watt portable solar panels for. For instance a 50 watt 12V rigid panel could be installed to a small camper van. The best way to keep a 30Ah house battery charged with no mains electricity hook-up available. A 50 watt flexible solar panel could be installed on boats where curves are a problem. And 50 watt foldable solar panels can be used to charge a portable power station. What use did you have in mind?”
Best 50 Watt 12V Rigid Solar Panel
Rigid solar panels are made from glass and aluminium and are designed to be waterproof. They can resist most weather conditions like high wind, snow and rain. The three 50 watt portable solar panels presented here are all 12 volt monocrystalline.
Rigid panels are best used with RV’s, boats, trailers, cars, trucks and green house solar systems. Their high efficiency will produce a great charging potential for a battery and they all have good warranties.
ACOPOWER 50 Watt 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel
Specifications
| Specifications | ACOPOWER 50 Watt 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel |
|---|---|
| Solar Cell | Monocrystalline |
| Wattage | 50 Watts – 12 Volt |
| Efficiency | Described As High Efficiency |
| Dimensions | 21.08 x 21.08 x 1.18 inch/550x550x30mm |
| Weight | 6.8 lbs/3.1kg |
| Maximum Operating Voltage (VMP) | 19.8V |
| Maximum Operating Current (Imp) | 2.53A |
| Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc) | 23.3V |
| Short-Circuit Current (Isc) | 2.73A |
| Junction Box Rating | IP65 (Waterproof) |
| Output Cables | 16 AWG (3.2ft Long) |
| Warranty | Workmanship; 5 Years Output Efficiency; 85% – 25Years Accessories – 1-year material warranty |
| Price | $75.80 |
Aco Power was established in 2011 and is based in Los Angeles. They produce solar panels, generators, controllers, inverters, batteries and accessories. They invented the world’s first portable battery powered fridge/freezer.
Their 50 watt solar panel has a lightweight anodised aluminium frame. It is fronted by 3.2mm thick reinforced anti-reflection safety glass. And comes complete with MC4 connectors. It weighs 6.8 lbs/3.1kg which is lower than Newpowa and Renogy’s 50 watt panels. All completed with a good 25 year output warranty.
Newpowa 50 Watt 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel
Specifications
| Specifications | Newpowa 50 Watt 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel |
|---|---|
| Solar Cell | Monocrystalline |
| Wattage | 50 Watts – 12 Volt |
| Efficiency | Described As Class A High Efficiency |
| Dimensions | 23.07 x 20.08 x 1.18Inch/586 x 510 x 30mm |
| Weight | 7.72lbs/3.50Kg |
| Maximum Operating Voltage (VMP) | 16.77 |
| Maximum Operating Current (Imp) | 3.15A |
| Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc) | 19.83V |
| Short-Circuit Current (Isc) | 3.31A |
| Junction Box Rating | N/A |
| Output Cables | 3ft with MC Connectors |
| Warranty | Workmanship; 2 Year Output Efficiency; 90% – 10 Years, 80% – 25Years Accessories – 2-year material warranty |
| Price | $75.00 |
Newpowa was founded in Las Vegas in 2013 but is now based in Ontario. And has expanded its operations into Germany. They manufacture portable solar panels, power stations, batteries, controllers and inverters.
The Newpowa 50 watt is my best choice ridgid 12v solar panel. Because it’s definitely made with high end Class A PV cells. Designed to withstand all weather conditions with a TPT backing to help dissipate heat. The heavy duty anodized frame has drilled holes for mounting.
The glass fronting is highly transparent and low iron tempered. And the efficiency warranty at 10 years is better than the ACOPOWER and Renogy Offerings
Renogy 50 Watt 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel
Specifications
| Specifications | Renogy 50 Watt 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel |
|---|---|
| Solar Cell | Monocrystalline |
| Wattage | 50 Watts – 12 Volt |
| Efficiency | Described As High Efficiency |
| Dimensions | 22.9 x 20.0 x 1.2inch |
| Weight | 7.72 lb/3.5 kg |
| Maximum Operating Voltage (VMP) | 18.6V |
| Maximum Operating Current (Imp) | 2.69A |
| Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc) | 22.3V |
| Short-Circuit Current (Isc) | 2.94A |
| Junction Box Rating | IP65 (Waterproof) |
| Output Cables | 14 AWG (1.31ft Long) |
| Warranty | Workmanship; 5 Years Output Efficiency; 85% – 25Years Accessories – 1-year material warranty |
| Price | $74.99 |
Renogy was started by students at Louisiana State University. Renogy LLC was organized in 2010 and in 2013 they launched their online store. By 2013 they incorporated as the RNG Group Inc. In 2016, Renogy won two bronze-level Golden Bridge Awards. One of them for best product of the year with the Lycan solar power station.
Renogy is probably the best known manufacturer amongst the three I am presenting. Their 50 watt solar panel is known for its quality of manufacture and high standard of workmanship. Again it can withstand most weather conditions with its corrosion resistant aluminum frame.
The pre – drilled holes allow for easy mounting and its IP65 rated junction box ensures it is waterproof. It is fronted with anti-reflective, highly transparent and low iron tempered glass. And Renogy says the glass has enhanced stiffness and impact resistance.
The panel is slightly smaller than the Newpower and ACOPOWER and it comes with a 25 year output warranty.
Best 50 Watt 12V Flexible Solar Panel
Neither Newpowa or ACOPOWER produce a 50 watt flexible solar panel. So in this best of guide Renogy are left to fly the flag. Flexible solar panels are great for vehicles or boats that have curves.
50 watts might not seem powerful enough but they will do just fine when used on a smaller craft or vehicle. It is true that they will only keep a 30Ah battery fully recharged. And a modestly discharged 50Ah battery recharged.
But they are great for keeping higher amp hour batteries topped off which is fine for day use. Like taking the boat for a spin or a day out camping in a recreational vehicle.
Renogy 50 Watt 12V Flexible Monocrystalline Solar Panel
Specifications
| Specifications | Renogy 50 Watt 12V Flexible Monocrystalline Solar Panel |
|---|---|
| Solar Cell | Monocrystalline |
| Wattage | 50 Watts – 12 Volt |
| Efficiency | 14.6% |
| Dimensions | 26.5 x 20.0x 0.08 in (673 x 508 x 2 mm) |
| Weight | 2.87 lbs (1.3 kg) |
| Degree Of Flexibility | Up To 248° |
| Thickness | 0.08inch/2mm |
| Maximum Operating Voltage (VMP) | 18.5V |
| Maximum Operating Current (Imp) | 2.71A |
| Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc) | 22.6V |
| Short-Circuit Current (Isc) | 2.92A |
| Junction Box Rating | IP68 |
| Output Cables | MC4 |
| Warranty | Workmanship; 5 Years Output Efficiency; 95% – 10 Year, 80% – 25Years Accessories – 5-year material warranty |
| Price | $109.99 |
As I mentioned earlier Renogy is a well respected company in the portable solar panel arena. Their 50 watt flexible is no exception because it can be bent to an incredible 248°. Which means that it should be able to be used on any curved surface a boat or vehicle would have.
The flexible panel is very light weight coming in at 2.87 lbs (1.3 kg) much lighter than the rigid equivalent. Again it can withstand most weather conditions and is tough and durable.
It has a TPT backsheet and the solar cells are encased in EVA and fronted with a layer of EFTE.
In case You didn’t know;
| TPT is Tedlar Polyester Tedlar |
| EVA is Ethylene Vinyl Acetate |
| EFTE is Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene |
It comes complete with 6 metal mounting holes, MC4 connectors and an IP68 waterproof junction box.
Best 50 Watt 12V Soft Foldable Portable Solar Panel
50 watt soft foldable portable solar panels are easily transported. Because they fold down into a small lightweight package. Like all other solar panels they can charge any type of battery only limited by the solar charge controller used.
They are best used for keeping batteries topped off or with portable power stations (generators). But like all 50 watt panels they are capable of keeping smaller batteries around 30Ah fully recharged.
ACOPOWER 50 Watt Foldable Solar Panel
Specifications
| Specifications | ACOPOWER 50 Watt Foldable Solar Panel |
|---|---|
| Solar Cell | Monocrystalline |
| Wattage | 50 Watts – 12 Volt |
| Number of Solar Panels | 4 X 12.5 Watt |
| Efficiency | 23% Sunpower™ Solar Cells |
| Dimensions Folded | 14 x 11.4 x 1 in /355 x 290 x 25mm |
| Dimensions Unfolded | 44.8 x 14 inch |
| Weight | 5.9lbs/2.66kg |
| Maximum Operating Voltage (VMP) | 18V |
| Maximum Operating Current (Imp) | 2.77A |
| Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc) | 21.6V |
| Short-Circuit Current (Isc) | 2.94A |
| Junction Box Rating | N/A |
| Output Cables | MC4 |
| Warranty | Workmanship; 18 months Output Efficiency; 85% – 25Years Accessories – 1-year material warranty |
| Price | $140.80 |
As I mentioned earlier ACOPOWER have been around for 10 years with their head office based in LA. They ship worldwide and their products are well made and are of a high standard and quality.
The ACOPOWER 50 watt soft foldable is made from industrial strength Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET). Which is tough and highly water resistant. The 4 x 12.5 watt solar panels are sewn into the carcase to make up the final wattage. Folding out to 44.8 inches the four panels fold down 14 inches giving it the appearance of a briefcase.
Great for charging batteries on the fly with a charge controller it can even be hooked up to an AC inverter. Finished with MC4 connectors, its lightweight 5.9lbs/2.66kg, fine warranty 23% efficiency and portability. Might be the 50 watt solution you are looking for.
Best 50 Watt 12V Portable Solar Briefcase
50 watt foldable briefcases are used for recharging smaller batteries and topping off larger ones. But their main use is to charge solar power stations up to around 200 watts. This type of setup is commonly known as a portable solar generator.
This type of generator is ideal for charging electronic devices like smartphones, tablets and laptops. Because the power station has a built-in inverter it can also be used to power smaller AC appliances.
Great for short camping trips, days out and home emergency use during power outages.
Renogy E.Flex 50 Portable Solar Panel
Specifications
| Specifications | Renogy E.Flex 50 Portable Solar Panel |
|---|---|
| Solar Cell | Monocrystalline |
| Wattage | 50 Watts – 12 Volt |
| Number of Solar Panels | 2 X 25 Watt |
| Efficiency | 21% – 23% |
| Dimensions Folded | 19.9 × 16.1 × 0.8inch/506 × 408 × 20mm |
| Dimensions Unfolded | 32.5 × 19.9 × 0.2inch/826 × 506 × 5mm |
| Weight | 5.25lbs/2.38kg |
| USB Port-C x 1 | 5V/3A max |
| USB Port-A x1 | 5V/2.4A Max |
| DC Port x 1 | 19V/2.4A – 16V/2.8A max |
| Maximum Operating Voltage (VMP) | 18V |
| Maximum Operating Current (Imp) | 2.77A |
| Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc) | 21.6V |
| Short-Circuit Current (Isc) | 3.04A |
| Junction Box Rating | N/A |
| Output Cables | N/A |
| Warranty | 1-year material warranty |
| Price | $139.99 |
Having previously discussed Renogy’s pedigree I don’t think I need to go into that again here. As opposed to the ACOPOWER 50 Watt 12V Foldable Solar Panel the Renogy is a 2 piece foldable suitcase. Consisting of 2 x 25 watt panels that fold on the fabric in the middle.
It is constructed from PET polymers and durable polyester canvas making it resistant to the weather. The weight of the ACOPOWER and the Renogy is roughly the same. But overall the Renogy 50w is larger, folded and when unfolded.
It has a built-in junction box (not waterproof) with USB-A and USB-C ports and a DC output port. With a high efficiency rating, built in junction box and a slightly cheaper price than the ACOPOWER . It might be the perfect solution for what you are looking for.
My Closing Thoughts
I know there are a few 50 watt 12 volt portable solar panel choices presented here. But which one would be a possible solution for your intended use will depend on it’s application.
If you are looking for a rigid panel to use to charge a smaller house battery or a topping off solution. I have recommended the Newpowa because of its class A solar cell high efficiency description. But to be honest with you there isn’t really any difference between the 50 watt panels. So you may want to base your decision on reputation alone.
A 50 watt flexible might be better for you if weight and curves are in the forefront of your mind. Charging a 200 watt or less portable power station might be your bag. Either the Ronogy or ACOPOWER will do the job. But there is a further consideration you can think about between the two.
The Renogy comes with a kickstand which means it can be stood up at an angle towards the sun. While the ACOPOWER can only be laid out flat or hung. This means the Renogy has a better potential to catch more sunlight. Because it can be moved to follow it during the day while the ACOPOWER can’t.
If you would like to check out my best choice 50 watt rigid solar panel you can do so here;
I hope you enjoyed this post and have found it helpful. If you have any questions about the best 12V 50 watt solar panels to use. Or want to leave your own personal review, please feel free to leave a comment below.
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My husband bought one of theses last year and it has been really helpful for us.
ACOPOWER 50W Monocrystalline Portable Solar Charger is Designed Specifically for Customers New to Solar. When you’re out enjoying the great outdoors, enjoy yet another perk: free limitless power. Simply spread out the solar panels or attach to your pack to start repowering your gadgets.
Hi Emmanuel
Ye the ACOPOWER is a great product very light and versatile in it’s use. Also as you say very easy to use if you are new to solar.
Reagrds
Steve
This is seriously cool stuff. I am thinking about going off the grid and this would work in really well with my plans. Is it easy to transport and maintain? The cost is great, cheap even. Could I run a dozen lights and a WiFi connection. Maybe satellite.? What other benefits, apart from saving money would you envisage?
Cheers
Stephen
Hi Steve
No you couldn’t run a dozen lights, WiFi connection and a satellite using a 50 watt solar panel, small battery and inverter. But you can with a larger system.
Of course any solar power system is great for use in electrical emergencies such as power outages.
If you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to ask.
Regards
Steve