Monocrystalline

Polycrystalline

Amorphous

Output in Heat

BETTER

Gradually lose a small amount of output as the temperature of the panel increases above 25°C. (But less than poly though)

GOOD

Gradually lose a small amount of output as the temperature of the panel increases above 25° (But more than monothough)

BEST

Only slightly de-rate output over 25°C compared to crystalline panels

Efficiency for Surface Area (Size)

BEST

BETTER

Slightly larger cell than monocrystalline

GOOD

Needs almost twice as much surface area as crystalline panels for same output.

Performance in Shade

GOOD

BETTER

BEST

Larger physical size of panel results in more output

Weight / Flexibility

Rigid

Rigid

Flexible / Blanket Style

Mounting Angle

Must be as perpendicular to the sun as possible

Must be as perpendicular to the sun as possible

Flexible type takes advantage of varying light intensity and angle due to the spcial matt finish non-reflective laminated plastic covering