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  1. Home
  2. /Comparisons
  3. /String inverter vs micro-inverter

String inverter vs micro-inverter

The difference between a string inverter and micro-inverters, and which suits your roof and budget.

On an unshaded roof with one section, string is often fine. With shade, dormers or multiple orientations we more often look at micro-inverters.

The inverter determines how power from your panels reaches your home. String and micro are the two most common options.

String inverter

Pros

  • +Usually lower cost on large strings
  • +One unit, straightforward maintenance
  • +Fine with little shading

Cons

  • -One underperforming panel can affect the whole string
  • -Less flexible on complex roofs

Micro-inverter

Pros

  • +Each panel separate, better with shade
  • +Flexible on multiple roof sections
  • +Per-panel monitoring

Cons

  • -More components on the roof
  • -Usually higher cost per Wp

Verdict

On an unshaded roof with one section, string is often fine. With shade, dormers or multiple orientations we more often look at micro-inverters.

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Frequently asked questions

On an unshaded roof with a single section, a string inverter is often the most cost-effective choice, with fine output.
With shade, dormers or panels on multiple sides. Each panel then works on its own, so a shaded panel does not drag the rest down.
With micro-inverters, yes: you see performance per panel. With a string inverter you see the system as a whole.

When do I choose a string inverter?

On an unshaded roof with a single section, a string inverter is often the most cost-effective choice, with fine output.

When are micro-inverters better?

With shade, dormers or panels on multiple sides. Each panel then works on its own, so a shaded panel does not drag the rest down.

Can I see output per panel?

With micro-inverters, yes: you see performance per panel. With a string inverter you see the system as a whole.

Need help choosing?

We help you make the right choice for your home and energy use.

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Get started

Solar panels

View and request a quote

Related articles

What is an inverter?

What an inverter does in a solar system, the difference between string, micro and hybrid, and what to look for.

How do solar panels work?

From sunlight to the socket: how solar panels work, what the inverter does, and how you use or feed back the power you generate.

Buying solar panels: what to look for

A practical buyer's guide for solar panels: panel types, comparing brands and installers, warranty, quotes and what to check before you sign.