Four-field comparison guide
How should power, efficiency, size and weight be compared together?
These four fields describe different parts of a module. A useful comparison connects them to layout, structure, handling and system design instead of turning one value into a universal ranking.
Direct answer
Compare output and physical format as one design decision.
Rated power identifies the output class, efficiency describes the proportion of incident solar power converted to electrical output under the stated test conditions, dimensions determine the footprint, and weight affects structure and handling. None of the four confirms project fit alone.
The relationship
The numbers answer four different questions.
A high headline wattage can come with a larger physical format. A compact module can fit a constrained roof differently. The comparison only becomes meaningful after the project constraint is named.
Power: how much rated output is listed?
Use the published range to identify output classes within the exact model. It does not predict annual energy yield or confirm current availability.
Efficiency: how much incident solar power becomes electrical output?
Module efficiency is the ratio of electrical output power to incident solar power (irradiance × total module area) under the stated test conditions. It is not annual energy yield.
Dimensions: how much physical space does one module occupy?
Length and width affect row count, roof coverage, setbacks, access paths, mounting geometry and transport planning.
Weight: what does each unit add to structure and handling?
Module weight belongs in structural and installation review. Compare both weight per module and the number of modules required by the system concept.
Published Sunhorn snapshot
The same four fields reveal different module formats.
The table is a factual starting point from the currently published English datasheets, not a ranking.
| Model | Power range | Maximum efficiency | Dimensions | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SH18-54H-D | 425–445W | 22.8% | 1722 × 1134 × 30 mm | 21.5 kg |
| SH21R-48H-D | 435–455W | 22.8% | 1762 × 1134 × 30 mm | 21 kg |
| SH21R-192H-D | 460–485W | 24.27% | 1762 × 1134 × 30 mm | 24.4 kg |
| SH18-72H-D | 570–590W | 22.8% | 2278 × 1134 × 30 mm | 30.5 kg |
| SH21R-66H-D | 605–625W | 23.2% | 2382 × 1134 × 30 mm | 32.5 kg |
| SH21R-264H-D | 650–670W | 24.80% | 2382 × 1134 × 30 mm | 32.5 kg |
| SH21-66H-D | 690–710W | 22.8% | 2384 × 1303 × 35 mm | 38.5 kg |
Three project lenses
Start from the constraint, then return to the datasheet.
The same module can be evaluated differently when the primary constraint changes.
Space-constrained roof
Review usable area, obstructions, setbacks and access first. Efficiency and module dimensions become especially relevant, but electrical design and mounting still require the complete specification.
Handling-constrained installation
Review access, lifting method, crew plan and module weight. Fewer high-power modules may change handling and layout without automatically simplifying installation.
Large project or repeated layout
Consider how module format, string design, mounting repetition and logistics interact across the whole system. A per-module comparison is only the beginning.
Comparison checklist
Record the same evidence for every candidate.
A consistent comparison sheet prevents one attractive number from changing the criteria halfway through the review.
Fix the project assumptions
Record application, available area, mounting approach, electrical concept and handling constraints.
Use exact model codes
Keep series, model and power range together in every row of the comparison.
Copy fields from one revision
Record the datasheet language and revision so every value remains traceable.
Compare the four fields together
Review power, efficiency, dimensions and weight against the same project assumptions.
Complete the engineering review
Check electrical, mechanical, certification and warranty requirements in the full documents.
Confirm current commercial conditions
Use the enquiry to confirm availability, order requirements, destination and current terms.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about comparing module specifications.
Does higher wattage always mean a better module?
No. Higher wattage identifies a higher output class, but the module format, efficiency, weight, electrical characteristics and project conditions still determine fit.
Is the highest efficiency always best for a roof?
No. Efficiency can matter when space is constrained, but usable layout, dimensions, structure, mounting and system design must also be reviewed.
Can published values confirm the final selection?
No. They support a shortlist. Final selection requires the exact current documents and project-specific technical and commercial confirmation.