Victron Energy makes two families of MPPT solar charge controllers: the SmartSolar and the BlueSolar. Both use the same maximum power point tracking algorithm, deliver up to 98% conversion efficiency, and support lead-acid and lithium batteries. The only headline difference is that SmartSolar models include built-in Bluetooth, while BlueSolar models do not. But is that single feature worth paying extra? This guide breaks down every difference, compares pricing across overlapping models, and helps you decide which range is right for your solar setup.
Quick Answer
SmartSolar MPPT charge controllers add built-in Bluetooth for wireless configuration and monitoring through the free VictronConnect app. BlueSolar MPPT controllers are the budget-friendly alternative—they skip Bluetooth but are otherwise built on the same hardware platform. In many model sizes the internal electronics are identical; you are literally paying for the Bluetooth radio and the blue-coloured label. If you want plug-and-play phone monitoring, choose SmartSolar. If you plan to use a GX device (like a Cerbo GX) or simply want the lowest upfront cost, BlueSolar does the same job for less money.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | SmartSolar MPPT | BlueSolar MPPT |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Bluetooth | Yes (Bluetooth Smart) | No |
| VE.Direct Port | Yes (on 15 A+ models) | Yes (on 15 A+ models) |
| Display Options | Built-in display on select models; optional SmartSolar Control display | Optional MPPT Control display via VE.Direct |
| App Configuration | Direct via VictronConnect (Bluetooth) | Requires VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart Dongle or USB adapter |
| Price (starting) | From ~£37 (75/10) | From ~£30 (75/15) |
| Available Sizes | 75/10 to 250/100, plus RS 450/100 & RS 450/200 | 75/10 to 150/100 |
| Built-in Networking | VE.Can on RS models; Bluetooth on all | None—networking via external accessories only |
What’s the Same
Beneath the label, SmartSolar and BlueSolar share a remarkable amount of DNA:
- Same MPPT algorithm – Victron’s ultra-fast maximum power point tracking scans the full IV curve and re-tracks throughout the day, squeezing maximum energy from every panel configuration.
- Same peak efficiency – Both families achieve up to 98% conversion efficiency, among the highest in the industry.
- Same battery compatibility – Lead-acid (gel, AGM, flooded) and lithium (LiFePO4 with compatible BMS) are supported with user-adjustable charge voltages.
- Same adaptive three-stage charging – Bulk, absorption (adaptive duration), and float stages are identical across both ranges.
- Same VE.Direct port – On 15 A and larger models, both SmartSolar and BlueSolar include VE.Direct for connection to GX monitoring devices, the MPPT Control display, or a USB adapter.
- Same build quality and warranty – Both carry Victron’s standard 5-year warranty and are manufactured to the same standards.
The SmartSolar Bluetooth Advantage
The defining feature of the SmartSolar range is built-in Bluetooth Smart. This gives you:
- Wireless configuration – Open the free VictronConnect app on your phone or tablet and adjust charge parameters, battery presets, load output behaviour, and more—no cables, no adapters.
- Real-time monitoring – See PV voltage, charge current, battery voltage, state of charge, and charger status live on your screen from up to 10 metres away.
- Historical data logging – VictronConnect stores up to 30 days of daily yield, max power, errors, and battery voltage history inside the controller. View graphs without any external logger.
- Firmware updates over the air – Keep your controller on the latest firmware with one tap in the app. No USB cable or laptop required.
- No extra hardware needed – For a simple single-controller system (campervan, shed, boat), SmartSolar gives you full visibility with zero accessories.
BlueSolar Monitoring Options
Choosing BlueSolar does not mean giving up monitoring—it just means the monitoring hardware is external rather than built in:
- VE.Direct to a GX device – Connect to a Cerbo GX, Venus GX, or similar for full local and remote (VRM portal) monitoring. If you already have a GX device in your system, the BlueSolar is fully featured on the dashboard.
- VE.Direct to USB adapter – Plug into a laptop and use VictronConnect to configure and monitor the controller. Ideal for one-off setup.
- VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart Dongle – This £30–£40 accessory plugs into the VE.Direct port and adds Bluetooth, effectively turning a BlueSolar into a SmartSolar equivalent for app access. However, it occupies the VE.Direct port, so you cannot simultaneously connect a GX device without a VE.Direct splitter.
- Optional MPPT Control display – A small wired screen that shows live data and allows basic configuration via VE.Direct.
If you are building a larger system with a GX device at its heart, the BlueSolar’s lack of Bluetooth is irrelevant because all monitoring flows through the GX.
Model Range Comparison
The SmartSolar family is significantly broader than the BlueSolar lineup, especially at the high end:
SmartSolar MPPT models (18 variants): 75/10, 75/15, 100/15, 100/20, 100/30, 100/50, 150/35, 150/45, 150/60, 150/70, 150/85, 150/100, 250/60, 250/70, 250/85, 250/100, RS 450/100, and RS 450/200.
BlueSolar MPPT models (11 variants): 75/10, 75/15, 100/15, 100/30, 100/50, 150/35, 150/45, 150/60, 150/70, 150/85, and 150/100.
Key takeaways:
- BlueSolar tops out at 150 V PV input voltage. If your string voltage exceeds 150 V, SmartSolar is your only Victron option.
- The SmartSolar 250 V range (60–100 A) handles higher-voltage strings common in larger off-grid and residential systems.
- The SmartSolar RS 450 V models (100 A and 200 A) are designed for commercial and high-power residential installations with long string runs, featuring an isolated DC-DC topology, built-in VE.Can networking, and optional display.
- BlueSolar does not include a 100/20 model, whereas SmartSolar does—handy for small 12/24 V systems that need just a little more current than the 100/15.
Pricing Comparison
The SmartSolar premium over BlueSolar is modest on smaller models—typically £5–£15—and can narrow or even reverse on some larger units where BlueSolar stock is limited. Below is a price comparison across UK retailers for the overlapping models:
| Model | SmartSolar Price Range | BlueSolar Price Range | Typical Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 75/10 | £37–£59 | £33–£51 | £4–£8 |
| 75/15 | £38–£58 | £30–£55 | £3–£8 |
| 100/15 | £45–£79 | £42–£56 | £3–£23 |
| 100/30 | £75–£117 | £65–£101 | £10–£16 |
| 100/50 | £107–£168 | £102–£152 | £5–£16 |
| 150/35 | £107–£168 | £130–£152 | SmartSolar can be cheaper |
| 150/60 | £203–£319 | £193–£288 | £10–£31 |
| 150/70 | £228–£378 | £183–£317 | £45–£61 |
| 150/100 | £302–£471 | £523 (1 retailer) | SmartSolar is cheaper |
Notice that at the 150/35 and 150/100, the BlueSolar can actually cost more than the SmartSolar due to limited stock and lower production volumes. At the smaller end (75 V and 100 V models), the BlueSolar saving is real but modest—often less than the cost of a coffee.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose SmartSolar If…
- You want plug-and-play phone monitoring with no extra accessories.
- You are building a simple system (campervan, shed, boat) without a GX device.
- You need a 250 V or 450 V model—BlueSolar does not exist in these sizes.
- You value over-the-air firmware updates and Bluetooth-based configuration.
- The price difference at your chosen model size is small (often under £10).
Choose BlueSolar If…
- You already have (or plan to add) a GX device that handles all monitoring centrally.
- Every pound counts and you want the absolute lowest hardware cost.
- You do not need Bluetooth because the controller will be managed via VE.Direct.
- You are buying in bulk for a commercial project and want to shave cost per unit.
- You plan to add a VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart Dongle later if you change your mind.
The Bottom Line
For most buyers, the SmartSolar MPPT is the better value. The Bluetooth premium is small—often under £10—and it saves you from buying a separate dongle or adapter down the line. You get instant app access for setup, monitoring, and firmware updates without plugging in a single cable. The only strong case for BlueSolar is when a GX device is already in the system (making Bluetooth redundant) or when you genuinely need to minimise spend on a tight budget. Either way, both families deliver the same outstanding MPPT performance, the same efficiency, and the same Victron reliability. You cannot make a bad choice—just a slightly more convenient one.
