String Inverters vs Microinverters: Which One’s Right for You?

Thinking about going solar? You’re not alone— more and more homes and businesses are making the switch to this clean, green energy source. But as solar technology keeps getting smarter, so do the decisions you’ll need to make— like whether to choose string inverters or microinverters.

So, what’s the difference between the two? And what are the pros and cons of each when it comes to cost, efficiency and long-term sustainability?

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key differences, helping you decide which option is the best fit for your solar setup.

String inverters

String inverters have been the go-to option for many solar installations over the years. In this setup, several solar panels are connected in a series— known as a ‘string’— and the electricity they generate is sent to a central inverter. This inverter then converts the combined Direct Current (DC) into usable Alternating Current (AC).

It’s a tried-and-true method, but it does come with a few drawbacks. Because the panels are linked together, the performance of the whole string can be affected if just one panel is underperforming (due to shading, debris or damage). Plus, the high DC voltage running through the system can pose some safety or efficiency concerns. These are some of the reasons microinverters have started gaining popularity.

Microinverters

Microinverters take a different, more decentralised approach. Instead of relying on a single inverter for an entire string of panels, each panel gets its own small inverter. This means each panel can operate independently, converting DC to AC right at the source.

The big advantage here is improved efficiency—if one panel is shaded or underperforming, it won’t drag the others down. Microinverters also offer better system monitoring and increased safety due to lower voltage at the panel level. It’s a more flexible, often more reliable setup, especially for roofs with complex layouts or variable sun exposure.

So how can you make the best choice for your solar system? Let’s take a look at them side by side:

Advantages of string inverters

1. Cost-effective: String inverters are generally more affordable than microinverters. Since you only need one central inverter for the entire system, the overall equipment and installation costs are lower.

2. Easier maintenance: With just one inverter to monitor, diagnosing and fixing issues is usually quicker and less expensive.

3. High efficiency in ideal conditions: If your panels are all facing the same direction with minimal shading, string inverters can deliver excellent efficiency and performance.

   
   

Downsides of string inverters

While string inverters have plenty of benefits, they also come with a few limitations to be aware of:

1. Performance drops with shading: Because panels are connected in a series, the entire string’s output can be reduced if even one panel is shaded, dirty, or underperforming—like a string of Christmas lights where one faulty bulb dims the rest.

2. Limited monitoring: String inverters usually provide system-level data, but not panel-level insights. This can make it harder to pinpoint problems if something isn’t working quite right.

3. Less flexibility: All panels in a string must face the same direction and have the same tilt to perform well. If your roof has multiple orientations or gets patchy sunlight, this can reduce overall efficiency.

4. Single point of failure: If the central inverter fails, your entire solar system goes offline until it’s repaired or replaced.

   
   

String inverters aren’t without their limitations—especially in less-than-perfect conditions. This is where microinverters come in.

Advantages of microinverters

1. More energy from each panel: Because microinverters allow each panel to operate independently, your system can continue generating maximum power even if one panel is shaded or underperforming.

2. Detailed monitoring: You’ll get panel-level data, making it easier to spot and troubleshoot any issues. Plus, if one microinverter fails, the rest of the system keeps running as usual.

3. Easy to expand: Planning to grow your solar setup down the line? With microinverters, adding more panels is simple and doesn’t require major rewiring.

4. Flexible panel orientation: Since each panel works independently, they can face different directions without affecting each other’s performance—ideal for complex roof designs or partial sun exposure.

   
   

Downsides of microinverters

Of course, no system is perfect, and it’s worth weighing the potential drawbacks too:

1. Harder to access for repairs: If a microinverter fails, you’ll likely need to get up on the roof to replace it—unlike a string inverter, which is usually mounted in an easier-to-reach location.

2. Tougher conditions: Being roof-mounted means microinverters are more exposed to heat, cold, and moisture. They're built to withstand it, but extreme weather can still affect longevity and efficiency.

3. Slightly lower efficiency: While microinverters are getting better all the time, they’re still not quite as efficient at energy conversion as top-tier string inverters.

4. Higher upfront cost: Microinverters are more expensive upfront, both in terms of equipment and installation, although this can sometimes be offset by higher long-term performance in the right conditions.

   
   

Making your choice

Choosing between string inverters and microinverters depends on several factors—your roof design, shading, budget, and energy goals all come into play. String inverters are ideal for simple, unshaded setups and are typically more affordable upfront. Microinverters, while slightly more expensive, shine in more complex installations and offer more control and insight into your system’s performance.

Their popularity is growing for a reason:

• Microinverter systems can produce around 8% more power over a year compared to similar systems using string inverters, thanks to panel-level optimisation.

• And with 98% of the Australian solar market being residential, microinverters are particularly well-suited to the kinds of homes that often have multiple roof angles, shading, or the need for future expansion.

• The global market for microinverters was worth around $2.9 billion in 2024, and it's still growing steadily.

• Industry experts expect the microinverter market to reach somewhere between $14 and $20 billion by the early 2030s—that’s a huge leap, driven by strong interest in smarter, more adaptable solar systems.

• Homeowners make up the bulk of microinverter demand—up to 90%, depending on who you ask—thanks to the way these systems handle things like shading, multiple roof angles, and future upgrades with ease.

  
  

Which One’s Right for You?

• If low cost and simplicity are your top priorities and your roof is relatively uniform and unshaded, string inverters might be the most practical fit.

• But if you have multiple roof angles, shading issues, or plan to expand later, a microinverter system could provide better long-term return through higher energy production and panel-level monitoring.

  
  

Ready to Get Expert Help?

We’re here to guide you. At Energy Wired, we’ll assess your roof, run system modelling, and match the best inverter option to your specific needs—whether that’s string or panel-level systems.

Get in touch with us via our website, give us a call on 03 9071 2468, or shoot us an email at hello@energywired.com.au. We’re excited to help you power a cleaner, more efficient tomorrow.