Solar Panel Types Compared — which suits your situation?
Not all solar panels are equal. Depending on your roof type, budget and goals, there are different technologies and configurations. This page explains the main types in plain language — without technical jargon — so you can make an informed decision.
22%
max. efficiency monocrystalline
best value under standard conditions
4 types
in direct comparison
mono, poly, thin-film, bifacial
25–30 years
lifespan of all types
with manufacturer performance warranty
Overview
The main solar panel types at a glance
| Type | Efficiency | Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Monocrystalline | 18–22% | Medium–High |
| Polycrystalline | 15–17% | Low |
| Thin-film | 10–13% | Low |
| Bifacial | 20–24% | High |
Detailed comparison
The four types in detail
Monocrystalline panels — the standard in Switzerland
Monocrystalline panels are today by far the most common choice for Swiss single-family homes. They consist of a single silicon crystal and have the highest efficiency of all common technologies.
Advantages
- Highest efficiency (18–22%)
- Best performance in diffuse light and overcast conditions
- Compact — ideal for smaller roof areas
- Long lifespan and high reliability
- Aesthetically pleasing (uniformly black)
Disadvantages
- Higher cost than polycrystalline panels
- Slight performance reduction at very high temperatures
Verdict: For most Swiss households the best choice — especially in the often overcast Midlands.
Polycrystalline panels — the budget option
Polycrystalline panels consist of multiple silicon crystals and have a slightly lower efficiency than monocrystalline. They are increasingly being replaced by higher-performance alternatives.
Advantages
- Lower purchase price
- Proven and reliable
- Well suited for large roof areas
Disadvantages
- Lower efficiency (15–17%)
- Larger area needed for the same output
- Recognisable by their blue-shimmering appearance
Verdict: Interesting for large roof areas with a small budget. Increasingly less common in Switzerland.
Thin-film panels — for special applications
Thin-film panels are deposited on a thin substrate and are more flexible than crystalline panels. They are particularly suitable for flat roofs and unconventional applications.
Advantages
- Light and flexible
- Low manufacturing cost
- Perform well at high temperatures
Disadvantages
- Lowest efficiency (10–13%)
- Require significantly more area
- Shorter lifespan than crystalline panels
Verdict: Rarely recommended for standard installations in Switzerland. Interesting for special applications such as façade integration.
Bifacial panels — more power from the rear side
Bifacial panels generate electricity from both sides — from direct sunlight at the front, and from reflected light at the rear. The additional yield is particularly high with snow or light roof coverings. Ideal for flat roofs.
Advantages
- Highest yield under the right conditions
- Particularly effective with snow (reflects light)
- Ideal for flat roofs with gap to the roof surface
Disadvantages
- More expensive than monocrystalline panels
- Additional yield depends strongly on installation
- Not always beneficial on normal pitched roofs
Verdict: Interesting for snow regions and flat roofs. For normal pitched roofs in Switzerland, usually no significant advantage.
Decision guide
Which type is right for me?
The choice depends on your specific situation. For a single-family home in Switzerland, monocrystalline is almost always the best choice — especially in the Swiss climate with a lot of diffuse light.
In practice, a certified installer recommends the right panel type after inspecting your roof. PVPro.ch connects you with providers who know all technologies and give neutral advice.
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Small roof, maximum output | Monocrystalline |
| Large roof, small budget | Polycrystalline |
| Flat roof, snow region | Bifacial |
| Façade or unconventional roof | Thin-film |
| Standard single-family home Switzerland | Monocrystalline |
Which type suits your roof?
A certified installer from your region will analyse your roof and recommend the optimal panel type for your situation — free of charge and without obligation.
Get free quoteFirst compare quotes? More about the costs of a solar system.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Which solar panels are most popular in Switzerland?+
Monocrystalline panels are by far the most commonly installed in Switzerland. They offer the best efficiency even in overcast conditions and are ideal for the Swiss climate.
What is the difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline?+
Monocrystalline panels have higher efficiency and are more compact, but cost a bit more. Polycrystalline panels are cheaper, but need more space for the same output.
Are bifacial panels worth it for a normal single-family home?+
On a normal pitched roof, the additional production from the rear side is small. Bifacial panels are most worthwhile on flat roofs or in snow regions.
Which panels last the longest?+
All high-quality crystalline panels have a performance warranty of 25–30 years. The choice of manufacturer is often more important than the technology.
Can I combine different panel types on the same roof?+
This is technically possible, but not recommended in practice. Different panels have different electrical characteristics, which can reduce system performance.
Which panel type best suits the Swiss climate?+
Monocrystalline panels are the best choice for the Swiss climate — they deliver good output even in overcast conditions and with diffuse light, and are robust against snow and cold.