Solar Panels Vs Solar Shingles: Which Is Best For You

When considering going solar, you'll come across two popular options: solar panels vs solar shingles. Solar panels and solar shingles are two popular options that can help you reduce your electricity costs and save the planet. But which one is right for you?

The differences between the two technologies in terms of aesthetics, costs, etc., might make you favor one over the other. In this article, we'll take a closer look at solar shingles vs solar panels. We'll discuss the pros and cons of each technology and help you decide which is the best choice for your home.

If you are running short on time, consider solar panels as your ideal charging solution. Solar panels like Jackery SolarSaga 200W are portable and foldable, so you can carry them to your outdoor adventures.

What Are Solar Panels

A solar panel consists of many PV or photovoltaic cells arranged in a rectangular plate. These solar cells generate electricity when direct sunlight falls on them. Connecting these solar panels to a battery or power station ensures you can easily store the charge for later use.

You can connect Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels with Explorer Portable Power Station to charge most of your appliances. The portable power station has multiple ports, ensuring you connect various appliances to charge them simultaneously.

A factor that makes solar panels a more likely choice for homeowners is their portable nature. Jackery offers highly efficient, durable, and portable solar power panels, meaning you aren't limited to one place. You can take them with you on camping trips or other outdoor adventures or use them for backup power during a power outage.

What Are Solar Shingles

Solar shingles, also called solar roof tiles, are small solar panels typically integrated into a conventional roofing system. These thin photovoltaic sheets or solar cells perform like traditional asphalt shingles that protect you and your home from the elements.

Solar shingles work as standard solar panel systems. When the sun shines on the shingle, the light is absorbed by photovoltaic cells. Generally, these solar roofs have an inverter, which converts direct current to alternating current. The power generated can be used by homes, stored in power stations for later use, or fed back to the national electricity grid.

Solar Panels Vs Solar Shingles: Pros and Cons

As solar technology evolves, new options are becoming readily available for homeowners. While solar power panels have been in production for decades, solar shingles are an emerging technology that involves some challenges. Let us evaluate the pros and cons of solar panels vs solar shingles below.

Solar Panels Vs Solar Shingles: Similarities

While solar shingles vs panels differ in various aspects, they have some similarities.

Photovoltaic Technology: Both solar panels and solar shingles use photovoltaic (PV) cells to convert the sun's energy into electricity.

Eco-friendliness: Since both the advancing solar technologies use the sun's energy to work, they are a clean and renewable source of energy.

Power Appliances: The electricity generated with the help of solar panels or shingles can be used to power home appliances like refrigerators, ACs, lights, etc.

Solar Panels Vs Solar Shingles: Differences

Solar panels and solar shingles share the same working principle. It absorbs and collects sunlight to convert it into power for your home or office. Here are a few main differences between the two solar solutions.

Cost

Solar panels are less expensive than solar shingles, all thanks to the easy installation of the former. Those planning to install solar shingles need to replace their traditional roofs, which increases the overall costs.

However, if you choose solar panels, you don't have to worry about complex installation. They are foldable, portable, and can be easily connected to a power station to charge appliances like refrigerators, heaters, ACs, etc.

Efficiency & Output

Solar panels are more efficient compared to traditional solar shingles. The reason is that there is constricted airflow underneath the shingles, which eventually decreases energy efficiency. Typically, solar tiles produce nearly 13-63 watts of power.

On the contrary, solar panels produce around 200-400 watts of power, depending on their type, wattage, etc. Using solar panels and a power station can help you lower energy bills by nearly 90%. Hence, solar panels are highly efficient and produce more power compared to shingles.

Design

Most solar panels are designed for functionality, not aesthetics. For this reason, you'll find bulky panels that take up considerable space on a building's roof. However, that's not the case with Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels.

Designed with functionality and aesthetic in mind, Jackery solar panels look portable and stylish. They feature a handle for easy carrying and can be folded and stored.

Solar shingles are sleek, and their slim look makes them seamless on your roof. They resemble traditional tiles on a fresh roof but function by using the sun's energy instead of electricity.  

Size

Solar shingles have similar dimensions as that of traditional roofing tiles. The average size of solar shingles is around 86 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 1 inch thick.

Alternatively, Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels are 91.34 inches long, 21.26 inches wide, and 1 inch thick. They are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for indoor or outdoor usage scenarios.

Durability & Availability

Both solar shingles and solar panels can withstand harsh weather conditions and have high durability. However, what makes them different from one another is their energy efficiency and availability. Solar panels generally have higher efficiency compared to shingles.

While solar panels are readily available, solar shingles are less frequently installed. Only a limited number of brands manufacture shingles, leading to scarcity. On the other hand, solar panel systems are widely available in most areas.

Installation & Maintenance

If your existing roof condition is good, it will take only a week to complete the installation process. However, roof replacement may take two or more weeks. An annual inspection and cleaning are necessary to ensure solar shingles generate an appropriate amount of electricity.

On the other hand, Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels are easy-to-install. Within a minute, you can connect solar panels to the power station to collect, convert, and store electricity. In addition, they are easy to maintain and require no high maintenance costs.

Lifespan

Both solar shingles and solar power panels have a long lifespan and can supply stable electricity for years. However, you'll need to check the brand type, warranty period, and the material used while investing in your preferred solar solution.

Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels

Jackery manufactures a wide range of solar panels, power stations, and solar generators for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts. These highly-efficient Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels are designed to collect energy from the sun.

You can place the solar panels directly under the sunlight to collect and convert absorbed sunlight into electricity. Connecting solar panels with Jackery Explorer Portable Power Stations allows you to charge appliances using solar energy.

Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels

Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels are durable and long-lasting solar solutions. They have a solar conversion efficiency of 24.3%, making them an ideal quick charging solution. The portable and foldable panel is IP67 waterproof and weatherproof, ensuring you can enjoy outdoor trips without a hitch.

Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels

The foldable, compact, and lightweight Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels are suitable for camping, hiking, and RV trips. They have a solar conversion efficiency of 24.3% for quick recharging. It is IP65 waterproof and has 2 USB output ports to charge two small appliances, like smartphones.

Jackery SolarSaga 80W Solar Panels

The Jackery SolarSaga 80W Solar Panels can generate on-the-go power, all thanks to its dual-sided nature. It offers an impressive solar conversion efficiency of 25%, making it one of the fastest charging solutions. Weighing only 11 lbs, the solar panels are lightweight and easy to carry. The rubber bumpers are attached to each corner of the solar panels, preventing accidental damage during transport.

Solar Panels Vs Solar Shingles FAQs

Are solar shingles more expensive than solar panels?

In short, yes. Solar shingles generally involve more expenses, like expert installation, etc., than panels. However, the final cost will depend on the roof size and how much power they generate. Portable solar panels require no complex installation, making them less expensive.

Are solar shingles as efficient as solar panels?

Although solar shingles and solar panels use the same technology, shingles are often less energy-efficient. They have less airflow and may not cool as quickly. Hence, it leads to lower efficiency of shingles compared to panels.

Solar panels or solar shingles? Which is best for you?

The choice between solar panels vs solar shingles depends on your home power needs, project budget, and goals. For instance, if you want a portable, cost-effective charging solution, it's best to choose solar panels with a battery backup for your home.

Jackery Solar Generators combine portable power stations and solar panels. Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro can charge 99% of home appliances with a battery capacity of 3024Wh. The Explorer 3000 Pro features a retractable handle and wheels for easy carrying during outdoor trips.

Final Thoughts

There is no single answer to understand who wins the battle of solar panels vs solar shingles. For instance, solar panels are an excellent choice for high energy efficiency and a portable solution. Alternatively, solar shingles offer an aesthetically pleasing integration with the roof.

Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels are portable solar charging solutions for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts. You can connect these panels with Jackery Explorer Portable Power Stations to store the generated electricity.