If you're building or upgrading a campervan electrical system, you've probably come across two very similar Victron solar charge controllers: SmartSolar MPPT and BlueSolar MPPT.

At first glance they look almost identical. They use the same MPPT charging technology, offer the same charging profiles, and are available in many of the same sizes.

So why is one more expensive than the other?

The answer is surprisingly simple.

In this guide, we'll explain exactly what the differences are, who each controller is designed for, and which one we recommend here at Nomadic Leisure.

What Does an MPPT Charge Controller Do?

Before comparing the two ranges, it's worth understanding what an MPPT controller actually does.

An MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) charge controller sits between your solar panels and your leisure battery. Its job is to maximise the amount of power harvested from your solar panels while safely charging your battery.

Compared to cheaper PWM controllers, Victron MPPT controllers can harvest significantly more energy, especially on cold or cloudy days.

Whether you choose SmartSolar or BlueSolar, you'll benefit from Victron's industry-leading MPPT technology.

SmartSolar vs BlueSolar: The Main Difference

The biggest difference is incredibly straightforward.

SmartSolar MPPT controllers have built-in Bluetooth.

BlueSolar MPPT controllers do not.

That's it.

Both controllers:

• Use the same charging algorithms
• Offer the same charging performance
• Support the same battery types
• Have the same efficiency
• Are built to the same high Victron quality standards

The charging performance is identical.

The only real difference is how you communicate with the controller.

SmartSolar MPPT

SmartSolar controllers include integrated Bluetooth, allowing you to connect directly from your phone using the free VictronConnect app.

With Bluetooth you can:

• View live solar production
• See battery voltage
• Monitor charging current
• View historical solar data
• Update firmware
• Change battery charging settings
• Configure load outputs (where applicable)

Everything can be done wirelessly without removing panels or opening cupboards.

For most campervan owners, this makes setup and troubleshooting much easier.

BlueSolar MPPT

BlueSolar controllers don't include built-in Bluetooth.

Instead, they communicate using VE.Direct.

If you want the same wireless monitoring as SmartSolar, you'll need to purchase a Victron VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart Dongle separately.

Once connected, the functionality is almost identical to a SmartSolar controller.

This means a BlueSolar plus a Bluetooth dongle effectively becomes a SmartSolar, although usually at a higher overall cost.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Can You Add Bluetooth to a BlueSolar?

Yes.

Victron sells a VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart Dongle that plugs directly into compatible BlueSolar MPPT controllers.

Once installed, you can monitor and configure your controller through the VictronConnect app just like a SmartSolar model.

However, by the time you've bought both the controller and the dongle, the total cost is often similar to—or even more than—a SmartSolar.

Which Models Are Available?

Both product ranges are available in a wide variety of sizes, including popular models such as:

• 75/15
• 75/10
• 100/20
• 100/30
• 100/50
• 100/50 Tr
• 150/35
• 150/45
• 150/60
• 150/70
• 250/60
• 250/70

The numbers refer to:

• First number: Maximum PV input voltage.
• Second number: Maximum charging current.

For example, a 100/30 can accept up to 100V from your solar array and charge your batteries at up to 30A.

Which One Should You Buy?

For most campervan owners, we'd recommend the SmartSolar range.

The small additional cost gives you built-in Bluetooth, making installation, setup and fault finding much easier. Being able to monitor your solar performance from your phone is incredibly useful when you're off-grid.

BlueSolar controllers still make sense if:

• You're replacing an existing BlueSolar controller.
• Your system is already monitored by a GX device (such as a Cerbo GX or Ekrano GX).
• You don't need Bluetooth access.
• You already own a VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart Dongle.

Do They Work with Cerbo GX or Ekrano GX?

Yes.

Both SmartSolar and BlueSolar MPPT controllers connect to a Cerbo GX, Cerbo GX MK2, or Ekrano GX using a VE.Direct cable.

Once connected, all monitoring is handled through the GX device and Victron's VRM Portal.

In these installations, built-in Bluetooth is less important because the GX device provides centralised system monitoring.

Our Recommendation

If you're installing a new campervan electrical system, the Victron SmartSolar MPPT is usually the best choice.

You'll get the same excellent charging performance as the BlueSolar range, but with the convenience of built-in Bluetooth, wireless setup, live monitoring and easy firmware updates through the VictronConnect app.

BlueSolar controllers remain an excellent option in certain installations, particularly where a GX device is already providing system monitoring or when replacing an existing controller. However, for most modern campervan and motorhome builds, SmartSolar offers the simplest and most user-friendly experience.

At Nomadic Leisure, we stock a wide range of genuine Victron SmartSolar and BlueSolar MPPT charge controllers. If you're unsure which model is right for your solar setup, our team is always happy to help.