Compare LONGi vs AIKO Solar Panels
Choose the right solar panel brand with this helpful LONGi vs AIKO comparison. These high-quality, reliable solar panel systems are top players in the Australian solar market, delivering innovative photovoltaic (PV) technology and panels with excellent efficiency. Compare costs, performance, warranty, features, and more here.
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Brand Overview: LONGi vs AIKO
LONGi Solar is a China-based company founded in 2000. It has since become widely established worldwide and has gained a reputation for innovation and reliability. Its strong presence in Australia is one of the reasons why LONGi solar panels are highly favoured among installers.
AIKO, on the other hand, only started operating in Australia last year. However, the company has been operating as a solar cell manufacturer since 2009. Just like LONGi, AIKO also hails from China. Despite being newer in the industry compared with LONGi, its solar panels are noteworthy for their use of All Back Contact (ABC) cell technology, increasing the aesthetic value and efficiency of their panels.
LONGi Solar Panels Series
- Hi-MO X10: Using HPBC 2.0 cells technology, the Hi-MO X10 is one of LONGi’s most popular for large-scale installations, favoured for its higher efficiency and power generation performance. It offers two series—Scientist and Guardian.
- Hi-MO 9: Designed for utility-scale solar projects, the Hi-Mo 9 panels also use HPBC 2.0 cell technology and offer up to 24.80% efficiency. Its soft breakdown design results in its anti-shading feature for greater energy yield.
- Hi-MO X6: A popular choice for residential usage, the Hi-Mo X6 model has an efficiency of up to 25.5% with its HPBC cells. It is equipped with the Anti-Dust feature to enhance energy output and reduce cleaning cost. It comes in four series: Explorer, Scientist, Guardian, and Artist.
- Hi-MO X6 Max: An upgrade of the Hi-Mo 6 model with better HPBC cells technology and the new LONGi TaiRay Inside. The latter tech provides an upgrade in module efficiency, degradation parameters, and mechanical performance.
- Hi-MO 5: Ideal for large-scale, ground-mounted solar power plants (particularly the 72-cell modules), as well as for industrial, commercial, and residential rooftops.
AIKO Solar Panels Series
- Neostar: AIKO’s flagship solar panel offering with an efficiency of up to 24.3% and optimised for partial shading scenarios.
- Comet: AIKO’s lineup for commercial and industrial applications, built to generate high energy yield. Lauded for being a cost-effective solution for large-scale projects.
- Stellar: For utility-scale installations, AIKO has the Stellar Series, offering up to 24.4% efficiency.
LONGi vs AIKO: Efficiency and Performance
Both AIKO and LONGi are considered top choices in terms of quality and reliability. But AIKO is a rising star in the industry due to its growing reputation for being the more advanced technology when compared with LONGi.
AIKO Key Specifications
- Efficiency: This advancement is reflected in the high efficiency of AIKO’s solar panels, which can go up to 24.5%.
- Degradation Rate: The degradation rate is also notably low—only 0.35% per year
- Temperature Coefficient: With a temperature coefficient of -0.26% per degree Celsius, this ensures that AIKO solar panels can withstand high-temperature environments like Brisbane without compromising their efficiency and performance.
LONGi Key Specifications
- Efficiency: LONGi solar panels also offer high efficiency. Older releases like the LONGi LR4-72HBD have the maximum efficiency of 20.2%, while those utilising crystalline silicon Heterojunction Back Contact (HBC) solar cells offer up to 27.3% efficiency. The Hi-MO 6 series, popular for residential use, has an efficiency rate of 25.5% due to Hybrid Passivated Back Contact (HPBC) cells, modules designed to maximise energy generation while maintaining utmost durability.
- Degradation Rate: LONGi’s models for large-scale projects also have low degradation rates—only a 1% degradation in the first year and linearly decays by 0.35% for the remaining 29 years (based on its 30-year product power warranty).
- Temperature Coefficient: The LONGi model Hi-MO X6 panels have a temperature coefficient of -0.28%/°C, maintaining efficiency even in high temperatures for consistent energy output.
Solar Panel Installation in Brisbane
Decided which LONGi or AIKO panels you want? Get your free quote for Brisbane solar panel installation.
LONGi Features and Benefits
- High Efficiency: LONGi modules are known for their high efficiency, particularly the more advanced Hi-MO models.
- Great for Residential Solar: For residential usage, their Hi-Mo X6 panels are touted as some of the best in the market. This model series utilises the Hybrid Passivated Back Contact (HPBC) Technology, increasing absorption of light and mitigating shading losses.
- High Energy Yield: With this tech, there’s a 10% increase in energy yield compared to the typical PERC modules.
- High Conversion Capacity: Enhanced photoelectric conversion capacity boosts solar panel performance and power.
- Protective Design: Anti-dust, humidity, and heat design means longer-lasting panels that stay reliable.
- Full Back Welding Technology: This helps further improve the modules’ resistance to micro-cracking.
AIKO Features and Benefits
- All-Back-Contact (ABC) Cell Technology: This tech makes AIKO solar panels shine, not just aesthetically, but in the efficiency of their modules.
- High Efficiency & Energy Output: The AIKO Neostar Series, for instance, achieves a maximum efficiency of 24.3% while being suited for residential applications.
- Durable, Reliable Panels: Durability-wise, it is resistant to hail and harsh conditions with special protective casing and materials.
- Optimised for Performance: AIKO solar panels are optimised for partial shade scenarios, reducing energy loss, plus it has a low performance degradation over time.
LONGi vs AIKO: Price and Warranty
LONGi solar panels are usually more affordable than AIKO solar panels. However, AIKO is considered the more advanced and sleeker choice in terms of appearance.
For example, the approximate price of a single AIKO 470 Watt Neostar 2P solar panel is around $200-$300, while a LONGi Hi-Mo 6 430W costs around $170 per panel.
In terms of warranty, AIKO offers a stronger one with a 15-year product warranty (extendable to 25 years) and a 30-year performance warranty. LONGi, meanwhile, offers a 12-year warranty for most of its panels, plus a 30-year linear warranty.
Pros and Cons Summary
To better compare these two solar panel brands, check out the table below:
LONGi
AIKO
Pros
Lower upfront costs.
Established brand.
Good efficiency.
Widely available.
Industry-leading efficiency.
Sleek, all-black design.
Strong warranty.
Cutting-edge ABC technology.
Cons
Slightly lower efficiency for older models.
Shorter product warranty on some models.
Higher upfront costs.
Not as widely available as LONGi.
Just began operations in Australia in 2024.
LONGi vs AIKO Verdict: Which One is Right for You?
LONGi and AIKO are excellent choices for residential and commercial applications.
LONGi solar panels offer a cost-effective solution with lower upfront costs while providing your home or business with a reliable solar PV system. LONGi is also a well-known brand with a longer presence in Australia, which makes installations and customer support easier.
AIKO only began its Australian operations in 2024, but its advanced technology—particularly its use of N-type ABC solar cells—makes its solar panels more cutting-edge and more efficient than industry standards. That’s why AIKO solar panels are also the more expensive option, which may not be ideal for those with budget constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: LONGi or AIKO?
Honestly, both solar panels are great, so it comes down to what you need. Both are Tier-1 and CEC-approved. AIKO suits smaller roofs because it packs in more power per square metre, and it also has a longer 15-year product warranty. That said, LONGi is usually cheaper and still offers top performance and energy efficiency.
Not sure which one is right for you? Contact our friendly team.
How long doHow much do LONGi solar panels cost? solar batteries last?
LONGi is usually the budget-friendlier option. You're looking at roughly $159 to $264 per panel, or about $0.34 to $0.48 per watt, before bulk discounts and rebates. Installation costs are extra, and the final price depends on the model and installer, so it's worth getting your free quote to see what your specific price would be.
How much do AIKO solar panels cost?
AIKO sits at the pricier end of solar panel costs. A popular 470W AIKO panel costs around $200 to $300. You're paying a little extra for higher efficiency and a longer warranty. Prices vary by model and installer, so get a few quotes to see what you'd actually pay.
Which solar panel is best for commercial use?
Both work well for commercial solar panels, but the best choice depends on your roof. LONGi is a popular pick for big roofs where keeping costs down matters most, and it has a long track record in Australia. AIKO is worth a look if space is limited, since its panels squeeze out more power.
Do LONGi and AIKO panels pair well with solar batteries and inverters?
Yes, both pair well with most popular solar batteries and inverters. The panels just generate the power, so the brand rarely limits what you can add. What matters more is choosing a battery and inverter that suit your system size, and your installer can check that it all matches up.
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