The Victron BlueSolar MPPT range uses the same MPPT tracking as Victron’s SmartSolar controllers, but without built-in Bluetooth. Here’s what Victron’s MPPT overview datasheet says about the differences, with the BlueSolar 150/35 and 150/45 as an example.
BlueSolar vs SmartSolar: The Real Differences
| BlueSolar | SmartSolar | |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Bluetooth | No (add a VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart dongle) | Yes (can be disabled) |
| Wireless Smart Battery Sense | No | Yes |
| VE.Direct port | Yes | Yes |
| MPPT tracking and charge algorithm | Same ultra-fast MPPT | Same |
Source: Victron BlueSolar and SmartSolar charge controller overview datasheet.
Victron points out an advantage of the BlueSolar approach: the product isn’t Bluetooth-accessible when the dongle isn’t connected.
Victron BlueSolar MPPT 150/35 and 150/45: Specs
| 150/35 | 150/45 | |
|---|---|---|
| Rated charge current | 35A | 45A |
| Nominal PV power, 12V | 500W | 650W |
| Nominal PV power, 24V | 1,000W | 1,300W |
| Nominal PV power, 48V | 2,000W | 2,600W |
| Max PV short-circuit current | 40A | 50A |
| Max PV voltage | 150V (145V operating) | 150V (145V operating) |
| Max efficiency | 98% | 98% |
| Weight | 1.25kg | 1.25kg |
Source: Victron BlueSolar charge controller MPPT 150/35 and 150/45 datasheet.
Self-consumption is 20mA at 12V, and there are eight preprogrammed charge algorithms. Power terminals take 16mm² (AWG6) cable, and the protection rating is IP43 for the electronics and IP22 for the connection area.
How to Set Up and Monitor It
Without Bluetooth, use one of these:
- VictronConnect over the VE.Direct to USB interface, or the VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart dongle.
- MPPT Control display, over a VE.Direct cable.
- A GX device and VRM, which also allows remote firmware updates.
Load Output
Only the 10A, 15A and 20A models have a physical load output. On the others, Victron uses a VE.Direct TX cable with a BatteryProtect or solid-state relay as a “virtual” load output.
Who It’s For
- Installs with a GX device, where Bluetooth on each controller adds little.
- Fixed systems that are set once and rarely changed.
- Buyers who want no wireless access on the charge controller.
Good to Know Before You Buy
- Setup is harder without a phone app connection out of the box.
- No wireless voltage and temperature sensing from a Smart Battery Sense.
- Using the remote on/off cable takes up the VE.Direct port on models without onboard remote terminals.
Victron’s BlueSolar MPPT 150/35 product page has the full datasheet and manual downloads.
Worked Example: Choosing Between 150/35 and 150/45
| Battery | 150/35 nominal PV | 150/45 nominal PV | Example array (estimate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12V | 500W | 650W | 3 × 190W (570W) suits the 150/45 |
| 24V | 1,000W | 1,300W | 4 × 285W (1,140W) suits the 150/45 |
| 48V | 2,000W | 2,600W | 6 × 365W (2,190W) suits the 150/45 |
Example arrays; check cold-weather Voc stays under 150V. You can connect more panel wattage than the nominal figure; the controller simply limits output to its rated charge current.
Worked Example: A 24V Array String
Three 365W panels in series, 48.4V Voc each, give 145.2V at 25°C. On a cold morning that rises above 150V, so three in series is too many. Two in series gives 96.8V, or roughly 110V at −10°C (estimate), leaving plenty of margin. Two strings of two (2S2P) gives 1,460W, which suits a 150/45 on 24V.
The Rotary Switch and LEDs
On the 150/35 and 150/45, a rotary switch selects one of the eight preprogrammed charge algorithms without any app. The front LEDs show bulk, absorption and float, and blink patterns signal errors. This makes the BlueSolar workable as a set-and-forget controller for a lead-acid or lithium bank whose voltages match one of the presets. For custom voltages, connect via VE.Direct.
Worked Example: Daily Harvest on 48V
A 2,000W array on a 150/35 with a 48V battery, in summer with about 5 peak sun hours, might produce roughly 7.5kWh a day after losses (2,000 × 5 × 0.75, estimate). The 35A limit at a 48V battery’s charge voltage is about 1,900W, so on the brightest hours the controller may cap output slightly. That’s a normal trade-off, since the array produces less than its rating most of the day.
Cable Sizing
The power terminals accept up to 16mm² (AWG6). For the full 45A on the 150/45, use cable sized for that current over your run length, and fit a fuse or breaker close to the battery.
Installation Steps
- Mount it vertically with at least 10cm of space above and below for airflow.
- Connect the battery cables first, through a fuse or breaker sized for the rated charge current.
- Let the controller detect 12V, 24V or 48V (or set it via VE.Direct on 48V systems if needed).
- Choose the charge algorithm on the rotary switch.
- Connect the PV cables through a PV disconnect.
- Check the LEDs: once the panels see light, bulk should light.
Monitoring Options Compared
| Option | What you get | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart dongle | Full VictronConnect on your phone | Owners who want app access later |
| VE.Direct to USB interface | VictronConnect on a laptop | One-time setup |
| MPPT Control display | Live readings on a panel | A wall display with no phone |
| GX device + VRM | Dashboard, history, remote updates | Larger systems |
Networking With Other Victron Gear
Through a GX device, the BlueSolar joins DVCC, so it follows the charge limits set by a compatible lithium BMS. Several BlueSolar controllers on one GX device work together and show as one solar total on VRM.
FAQ
Can a Victron BlueSolar MPPT get Bluetooth?
Yes, with Victron’s VE.Direct Bluetooth Smart dongle.
Is BlueSolar less efficient than SmartSolar?
Victron describes the same MPPT technology for both. The BlueSolar 150/35 lists 98% max efficiency.
Does the 150/35 work on 48V?
Yes. It supports 12, 24 and 48V batteries; 48V is selected through VE.Direct settings where auto-detect doesn’t apply.
Can I use it for lithium without the app?
Yes, if one of the rotary switch presets matches your battery’s datasheet. Otherwise set custom values via VE.Direct.
Is the BlueSolar waterproof?
No. It’s IP43 for the electronics and IP22 for the connection area, so mount it in a dry space.
Sources: Victron BlueSolar and SmartSolar charge controller overview datasheet; BlueSolar MPPT 150/35 and 150/45 datasheet; product page, victronenergy.com, accessed Oct 2026.
Related: SunSwift 60A MPPT Solar Charge Controller Review, EcoFlow Delta 3 Max Solar Setup, BougeRV Arch Pro 200W Flexible Solar Panel Review, plus the Victron Energy Guide