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The Best Solar Battery Testers

Nothing beats the convenience of having a solar battery tester!

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Reviewed by
Robert Laswell
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Solar battery testers are still relatively new in the industry; nevertheless, these items make a wonderful addition to your repair shop, garage, or even your home and car.  These devices let us know how much power is left in an accumulator and provides us with enough information about the health of the battery. 

During those horrendous winters, especially concerning our RV’s, it is vital to ensure that our car battery is still functional enough before heading out on the road. Solar battery testers work great for those of us who own a variety of machinery, namely, home solar power systems, electric cars, or any device that operates through the use of solar electricity

These testers enable us to be aware of our rechargeable batteries’ status.  Testers such as these help us know whether our batteries are in desperate need of repairs or, in many cases, replacement.  This will help owners of solar battery testers inevitably save tons of cash.   

To this effect, we have thoroughly reviewed several solar battery testers and have narrowed down the 10 best solar battery testers.

Editor’s Picks

Let’s take a quick look at our top three solar battery testers.

SOLAR BA7 100-1200 CCA Electronic Battery and System Tester
Best Overall
SOLAR BA7 100-1200 CCA Electronic Battery and System Tester

SOLAR BA7 100-1200 CCA Electronic Battery and System Tester is our best overall solar battery tester.  This remarkable device has passed many of our benchmarks while researching and comparing various battery testers.

This solar electronic battery and system tester come with an affordable price that does not reduce its performance or effectiveness.  The device is compatible with a plethora of 12-volt accumulators rated within the range of 100 and 1200 CCA, the operation range being 7-15 volts.

Furthermore, this solar battery tester is great for regular batteries and accumulators such as Deep Cycle, Spiral Wound, AGM, and Gel Cell. Its functions include testing the battery’s health and the charging system for a somewhat detailed view of the battery.

FOXWELL BT705 12V 24V Car Battery Tester Automotive 100-2000 CCA
Best Performance
FOXWELL BT705 12V 24V Car Battery Tester Automotive 100-2000 CCA

Foxwell’s solar battery tester deserves to get our award for best performance, and here’s why.  This device is made for almost every 12 and 24-volt battery ranging from AGM, Gel to even batteries of the deep cell varieties.

The price for this Foxwell model might be a bit steep, but considering all the spectacular features and functions you get, we believe it is worth it.  If you are still not convinced, consider this device’s ability to test batteries between the ranges of 100 to 2000 CCA, its durable copper and wire clips, backlit LCD for easy reading, its 7.8-foot cable, and so much more.

Schumacher Solar Battery Load Tester and Voltmeter - 100 Amp
Best Price
Schumacher Solar Battery Load Tester and Voltmeter – 100 Amp

For the wonderfully affordable cost of this Schumacher Battery Load Tester, users can quantify 6 volt and 12-volt batteries as high as 1000 CCA.  Considering its costs and the competition in the marketplace, this device can reliably provide information about the battery system with a test load of 100 A for your 12-volt batteries and 50 A for 6-volt batteries.

How Do Solar Battery Testers Work?

Since solar battery testers are fairly new to the market, chances are you’re unfamiliar with how they work. Here’s a quick examination of the inner workings of solar battery testers.

In truth, their operation is incredibly simple. Whilst they may come in a range of designs, with variations on function, they are all built on the same foundation. A handheld device with a small screen on which test results are displayed, and menu options are presented, is equipped with two alligator clip cables – one red, one black. These cables (you guessed it) are what you attach to the positive and negative terminals on your battery (whether in or out of a vehicle, or free-standing). Make sure you attach the red clip to the positive terminal, and the black to the negative terminal.

From here, you need simply turn on the tester, and select an option from the several available on screen. You can test a range of battery elements, from charge to voltage, cranking power, and how much life is left in the battery (level of Ohm resistance), as well as any other potential defects or issues present in the battery. On-screen instructions generally walk you through each testing process step-by-step, so that you don’t need any prior know-how to test your battery.

What makes solar battery testers so ideal for the solar industry, is that they are equipped to test even deep cycle and high-capacity batteries: the sort most commonly used in solar array storage, from residential to professional setups. The only power these testers require to operate is that provided to them by the battery. Small and portable, they can be taken wherever you go and used on just about any battery, offering test results in seconds.

Pros and Cons of Solar Battery Testers

Let’s take a brief look at some of the most fundamental advantages and disadvantages to owning a solar battery tester.

Pros:

  1. Test any battery, anywhere. Thanks to the small, portable design of these solar battery testers, you can take them with you wherever you go. And since they require no power other than that provided them by the battery, they can be used whenever you like, on any type of battery: from deep cycle to small solar light batteries.
  2. Battery health. Knowing your battery’s health condition is not only prudent, it can be life-saving in an emergency. When it comes to solar arrays – systems whose energy production fluctuates a lot and often as the intensity of sunlight changes during the day – testing your battery is the only sure fire way to know that your setup is functioning efficiently and safely.
  3. Easy to use. Since most of the models we’ve listed here walk you through each step with on-screen instructions, just about anyone can use a solar battery tester, with no prior experience required.
  4. Versatile. Test a wide range of battery health elements with these chargers – not just the charge level, but the voltage, crank power and more.

Cons:

  1. Expensive. For such small pieces of equipment, the price range is surprisingly high for solar battery testers. Granted, they are incredibly useful and high quality, but still, even the cheapest may be too expensive for some.

Best Solar Battery Testers Reviewed

The Best Solar Battery Testers In 2021

The following are the 10 best solar battery testers that we found and reviewed. Choose the one that suits you best.

#1. SOLAR BA7 100-1200 CCA Electronic Battery and System Tester

  • Brand: Clore Automotive
  • Test 12 volt batteries from 100-1200 CCA
  • Tests multiple battery types
  • LED indication of battery and system pass or fail
  • Easy to Use
  • Bright 4 digit LED display is great for bright or low light settings
SOLAR BA7 100-1200 CCA Electronic Battery and System Tester

This solar battery tester by Clore Automotive is extremely simple to use, making it a cinch to find out all the information you need about your batteries.  The innovative display provides a helpful guide for you to follow while conducting your tests.  This device is for both the novice and the expert due to its simplicity and functionality.

This battery tester comes with a four-digit LED display that is easy on the eyes and highly visible in low lighting conditions. Clore Automotive built this product to be flexible enough to work with every 12-volt battery that operates within the 7 and 15-volt range.  Furthermore, its versatility is attested to its capability to also work with deep cycle, gel, and AGM batteries.

This lightweight (9.6 ounces) device is portable, durable, and can test batteries within the 100-1200 CCA, issuing performance and pass/fail readout for your system. We highly recommend this as one of the best overall solar battery testers in the marketplace.

Pros:

  • Good compatibility
  • Easy-to-use guide
  • LED light display
  • Portable & lightweight
  • Durable

Cons:

  • Low readability of display in bright light

#2. FOXWELL BT705 12V 24V Car Battery Tester Automotive 100-2000 CCA

  • Brand: Foxwell
  • AGM flat plat
  • Function of Bluetooth printing
  • Quickly and accurately display test result in just 3 seconds
  • AGM spiral and gel batteries
  • Test 12V regular flooded
  • Test car 12V&24V charging system(Detect alternator)
  • 12V&24V charging system(Detect alternator)
  • Test car 12V&24V cranking system(Display cranking voltage and cranking time)
FOXWELL BT705 12V 24V Car Battery Tester Automotive 100-2000 CCA

Foxwell has brought us an amazing solar battery tester that was built for all models of 12-volt and 24-volt batteries across the general spectrum, such as batteries ranging from AGM, regular flooded, gel, or even deep cycle batteries.

This device has the ability to test batteries within 100 to 2000 CCA. Aside from merely testing the performance of your solar batteries, it also does this in as little as 2.5 seconds on a brightly lit LCD screen. This product is made of superior materials such as copper clips and wires, providing accurate and consistent readings.

Designed uniquely and attractively and weighing only three pounds, it packs a punch in performance while measuring 12-volt and 24-volt solar batteries. Furthermore, it comes with a cable that is a little less than eight feet, allowing users to use the device indoors as well as outdoors. It is all encased in a portable and efficient packing system.

Pros:

  • Precise results
  • Test results in less than 3 seconds
  • Well lit LCD backlight
  • Portable case for storage

Cons:

  • Incompatible with 6-volt varieties

#3. Schumacher Battery Load Tester and Voltmeter – 100 Amp

  • Brand: Schumacher
  • Trusted testing
  • Complete charging system diagnosis
  • Simple operation
  • Heavy-duty clamps
  • Durable steel case with baked enamel shell and rubber-insulated carrying handle
Schumacher Battery Load Tester and Voltmeter - 100 Amp

Schumacher’s solar battery charger has won our award for the best-priced device on the market.  Its affordable price does not influence the product’s effectiveness.  It can test and measure batteries of 6 volts and 12 volts as high as 1000 CCA, with a test load of 100 A for 12-volt and 50 A for 6-volt batteries.

This device tests the load and gives us an accurate reading of the whole battery system. Schumacher’s model comes in an enamel and steel housing that is durable while also being portable.

Its shock-resistant body comes with openings to ensure it is properly ventilated and kept cool.  The lightweight design weighing under two pounds makes it a cinch to carry and travel around, making it one of the best digital battery and system testers.

Pros:

  • Highly affordable
  • Durable and ventilated housing
  • Accurate test results for various batteries
  • For the novice as well as experts

Cons:

  • Analog display; not digital
  • Limited, short cables

#4. ANCEL BA101 Professional 12V 100-2000 CCA 220AH Automotive Load Battery System Performance Tester

  • Brand: Ancel
  • Small compact design
  • Tests batteries on and off the vehicle
  • Accurate results in milliseconds
  • Battery life analysis
  • Analysis results: Good or Replace
  • Large easy to read LCD screen
  • Test results based on JIS, EN, DIN, SAE and IEC Standards
ANCEL BA101 Professional 12V 100-2000 CCA 220AH  Automotive Load Battery System Performance Tester

Ancel has a created a beast of a product with their latest solar battery tester release. This device measures the ohm resistance of batteries while checking their overall system. It not only provides users with reliable performance and power results but is also compatible with a wide array of batteries.

It has a comprehensive diagnosis tool that explains whether the battery in question needs to be replaced, repaired, or tolerated.  With its super-fast system performance test results (within milliseconds), it makes a perfect tool for testing batteries in cars, solar power systems, etc.

This solar battery tester has a bright LCD backlight with adjustable settings to make it visible in poor lighting situations.  It also has a durable yet flexible casing and a three-foot cable, making it capable of being used in hard-to-reach ones. Furthermore, you can save your results and have them printed out at a later date.

As far as its functions go, it is capable of testing from 100 CCA to a whopping 2000 CCA for 12-volt batteries over a plethora of battery models.  In addition, one can easily test a starter’s cranking performance along with the alternator making it great for use with cars.

It weighs about five pounds, but we found it portable and durable with its strong exterior, 4 buttons, and scroll bar.

Pros:

  • Easy-to-use menu
  • A wide variety of battery uses
  • Great for testing car batteries
  • Adjustable LCD backlight
  • Save and print data at a later date

Cons:

  • Owner’s manual and usage is a bit confusing

#5. SOLAR BA327 20-2000 CCA Electronic Battery and Complete Testing Solution with Printer

  • Brand: Clore Automotive
  • Wide Testing Range
  • Test Multiple Battery Types
  • Integrated Printer
  • 10 Foot Cable Leads
  • User Friendly
  • Backlit Screen
SOLAR BA327 20-2000 CCA Electronic Battery and Complete Testing Solution with Printer

Clore Automotive does not play games when it comes to building exceptional solar batteries and automotive digital battery testers.  They have done it again with this gem of a product.  Experts in this field will feel more than comfortable shelling out a few more bucks for this high-performing device.

For those who take solar power seriously and have devices powering up their homes, a Clore Automotive solar power battery tester is a great choice.  It functions well with 6-volt and 12-volt batteries that are in the range of 1.5 volts and 30 volts and within 40 CCA and 2000 CCA, making it more capable than other products in its class.

This five-pound piece of marvel comes with an LED backlight display, which is easily viewed in all light conditions.  It also has an extra-long ten-foot cable, which is attachable to many batteries.  As if all this was not enough, it also has an integrated printer making it a high-performing battery tester that will please even the experts.

Pros:

  • Compatibility with different batteries
  • Works with charged and discharged batteries
  • Save feature and integrated printer
  • Bright LED backlight display

Cons:

  • A bit expensive

#6. SUNER POWER Digital 12V Car Battery Tester Automotive Battery Load Tester and Analyzer

  • Brand: Suner Power
  • Test Multipble Battery Type
  • Wide Operating Range
  • Continuous test with battery power
  • No damage to battery
  • Over voltage protection make it to be ultra safe
  • Large LED screen and heavy duty clamp
SUNER POWER Digital 12V Car Battery Tester Automotive Battery Load Tester and Analyzer

With this model, Suner has given us an affordable device with just enough functions and features to make it competitive enough.

We really liked the simplicity and innovation that this product introduces to the marketplace. Its operating range works great with deep cycle, flood, gel cell batteries, AGM battery types, or accumulators within the 5 CCA and 9555 CCA range and between 7 volts to 15 volts. It comes with clips that are heavy-duty and durable, a beneficial alarm system. It even offers us a polarity reverse function and an overload voltage protection option.

In addition, another feature that we enjoyed was its large LED backlight screen and grading test results system that aids in explaining the information for novices.

Pros:

  • Great performance
  • Wide battery test range (5 CCA till 9555 CCA)
  • Large LED backlight display
  • Heavy-duty clips
  • Alarm
  • Over-voltage protection

Cons:

  • Not very accurate assessment

#7. TOPDON BT100 100-2000 CCA Automotive Alternator Tester Digital Auto Battery Analyzer Charging Cranking System Tester

  • Brand: TT Topdon
  • Car Battery Tester Automotive
  • 12V Battery Load Tester
  • Fast & Accurate
  • Unique smart 3 LED indicators directly show the battery status
TOPDON BT100 100-2000 CCA Automotive Alternator Tester Digital Auto Battery Analyzer Charging Cranking System Tester

TT Topdon’s BT100 not only tests solar batteries but also includes cars, motorcycles, ATVs, SUVs, boats, RVs, and several other vehicle batteries.  It has an intuitive all-in-one design also tests cranking systems, charging systems, load checking, and alternator checking.

This model impressed us with its simple design that is easy to read and operate.  It has smart LED backlight indicators that display whether the battery requires a charge, is in good shape, or needs to be replaced.

This TT Topdon device operates with 12 volts regular flooded AGM flat plates, AGM spirals, EFB, GEL Cell batteries, and deep cycle battery types.  It offers on-point system performance and alternator output readouts for 100 CCA to 2000 CCA types.

Pros:

  • Simple design
  • Works on many systems
  • Smart LED display

Cons:

  • No integrated printer

#8. KZYEE KS21 Battery Tester 12V 100-2000 CCA

  • Brand: KZYEE
  • Fast and accurate results
  • Test car 12V charging system(Detect alternator)
  • Analyze the health condition of the 12V battery(Display voltage, CCA value and age status )
  • Test car 12V cranking system(Display cranking voltage)
  • KS21 is a handy tool to ensure your batteries are always working at an optimum level, helps you fix the potential problems before they arise.
KZYEE KS21 Battery Tester 12V 100-2000 CCA

We had to add KZYEE’s product to our listing of the ten best solar battery testers simply because it comes loaded with features that we found irresistible.

The battery health check function uses modern conductivity methods to evaluate and test the scanned battery.  Within only three seconds, users can get their charging system’s performance results, such as battery health, battery condition, testing conclusion, and internal resistance.

KYZEE’s model works with the following battery standards: SAE, CCA, IEC, EN, DIN, JIS, and several others.  As you can see, its operating range versatility is a must-have for those of us who have multiple battery types around our homes, offices, or cars.

But that’s not all. It also works with all 12-volt (100 CCA – 2000 CCA) batteries, has a cranking and charging system test, and a safety feature to prevent overheating and sparks.

Pros:

  • Very lightweight and compact
  • Great customer support
  • Accurate assessment
  • Overvoltage protection

Cons:

  • No warranty

#9. Schumacher ProSeries Battery Load Tester – 100 Amp – with Complete System Diagnosis

  • Brand: Schumacher
  • Compatible with 12V battery systems
  • Microprocessor-controlled, for easy and accurate load testing
  • Durable ventilated steel case
  • Digital display indicates voltage and test results
Schumacher ProSeries Battery Load Tester - 100 Amp - with Complete System Diagnosis

The Schumacher company is on another level when it comes to quality battery testers; hence we felt we had to put two of their models on our top ten list.  The PST-200 model is a simple yet reliable load testing device that requires no manual timing.  It is easy to carry around and also solidly built and durable with its steel case and sure-grip clamps.

When it comes to its features and functions, this Schumacher product offers a total system diagnosis test and load, charge state, battery condition, and an excessive starter draw motor.  Add to this a three-step LED backlight process for checking polarity, load, and charging system readout.  The display shows users the battery types, voltage, and test results in an easy-to-read format.

Pros:

  • Smart micro-processors for accuracy
  • Steel build and durable
  • Complete system diagnosis and operating range

Cons:

  • Does not test older or vintage cars and trucks

#10. Clore Automotive SOLAR Digital 12V Digital Battery and System Tester

  • Brand: Clore Automotive
  • 12 Volt battery and system testing
  • 40-1200 CCA testing capacity
  • 7-15V operating range
  • Compatible with many battery types
  • LCD display for optimal viewing in all lighting environments
Clore Automotive SOLAR Digital 12V Digital Battery and System Tester

Clore Automotive is another company that deserved to have one more of their models on our list of best testers.  Their BA9 digital system and battery tester give users a quick performance test of 12-volt batteries, charging systems, and starting systems.  This product works great with a range of batteries across all spectrums.

It offers a fast, reliable, and accurate test assessment of the condition and performance of the batteries. It has an operating range of 40 CCA to 1200 CCA and works with AGM Spiral Wound, Gel Cell batteries, Lead Acid Batteries, and AGM Flat Plate.  Furthermore, it tests both charged and discharged batteries up to 7 volts and includes safety features such as polarity reverse and overload voltage protection.

Pros:

  • Fast and simple test results
  • Compatible with many battery types
  • Ability to test against a wide range of rating systems (CCA, DIN, JIS, EN, IEC)
  • LCD for optimal viewing in all lighting conditions

Cons:

  • Only does testing up to 1200 CCA

Buyers Guide

We have reviewed and chosen the 10 best products we believe will provide you with the customer satisfaction you seek when purchasing a battery tester.  Nevertheless, it is always wise to conduct a bit of your own research. After all, only you truly know what you require. 

Therefore, keep a couple of things in mind, such as the size, weight, durability, distinct battery types tested, system diagnosis, and last but not least, its user-friendliness.  Before deciding on the right product for you, one should look at some of the utmost importance factors. 

Ease of Use

You should always ask yourself if the product is easy enough to use, depending on your skill level.  Most people are not experts in the field of battery testing and analysis. Therefore be sure that the product you choose has a friendly interface and comes with easy-to-understand instructions.

Compatibility

Another question to ask is, what exactly will I be using this battery tester for.  Compatibility plays a major role in your decision-making since each tester has its own distinct battery types that it is associated with. Specifications to look for include the tester’s operating range in CCAs, the voltage range, and the different types of batteries (i.e., AGM Spiral Wound, Gel Cell batteries, Lead Acid Batteries, and AGM Flat Plate).

Price

The price is an important factor that comes into question, especially when dealing with battery testers.  Luckily, there is a wide variety of options to choose from. The more hefty-priced testers come with many complicated options, but simpler ones come with wonderfully affordable prices.  The choice is yours!

Warranty

Battery testers are fickle devices, as they are usually small, portable, and placed precariously in glove compartments, pockets, etc.  With this in mind, buyers should be aware of the warranty being provided by the manufacturers.  It is always good to have that peace of mind when purchasing your brand new tester.  Some in this niche market do not provide warranties, and this might influence your choice.  So, buyers, beware!

Size and Weight

As previously mentioned, these testers are a small lot built to be portable and handy. Their sizes vary from the smaller 9.6 ounces to the much larger 5-pound varieties.  This will be important for those who want a pocket device versus those that need it for professional work in a garage, etc.

Screen

There are those who have trouble reading without glasses, and having a screen to look at that is tiny and not intuitive might be a turnoff. Some testers come with LED backlight screens, while others are still using analog displays.

Final Verdict

We believe that the best overall battery tester is the SCHUMACHER SOLAR BA7 100-1200 CCA Electronic Battery and System Tester.  This great product is an overall gem compared to most of its competitors. It works with many different battery types, provides accurate readings, has a durable and portable design, and is not too highly-priced.

FAQs

What is a Battery Tester?

These are devices that test the condition and performance of batteries.  Some come in a simple form and conduct simple evaluations, whilst others offer in-depth analysis and interpretations of different types of batteries and voltages.

Why Do You Need a Battery Tester?

These devices warn us if our batteries need to be replaced or charged.  In more complicated situations, these devices will give us a complete analysis of the battery in question.

How Does a Solar Battery Tester Work?

These devices measure the current that is exuding out from the battery in real-time.  The display, which is usually an LCD screen, will provide all the details of the test batteries rated in its class.

How to Choose the Best Solar Battery Tester?

It is always good to read reviews and make your own judgment as to whether they will provide you with customer satisfaction.  Some people want a fast and simple tester, while others might use it in their occupations, such as mechanics or electricians.

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Author Bio

Robert is a renewable energy and sustainability specialist with 10+ years of experience in the solar and renewable energy space.

With experience in different organizations in the industry, he operates semprius as a passion project promoting sustainable renewable energy ideas and products.

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