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Equipment & Technology March 2026 7 min read

String inverter or microinverter: what to choose?

Editorial responsibility: Franck Tournier · Report a fix

TL;DR

On a simple, poorly shaded roof, a string inverter often remains the best performance/price ratio. Microinverters become very relevant on complex, partially shaded roofs or when panel-by-panel monitoring is a priority.

Architecture difference

In string architecture, several panels are grouped together and connected to a central inverter. In micro architecture, each panel has its own converter. The thong is more simple and often less expensive; the mic offers superior granularity and flexibility.

Monitoring and maintenance

Panel monitoring is native on microinverter solutions, making it easier to fine diagnosis in the event of a drop in performance. In string, tracking is often by string, unless additional optimizers or sensors are added.

Electrical safety

Both architectures can be compliant and secure if properly designed. Microinverters reduce the length of high-voltage DC portions on the roof; the Modern string architectures also incorporate advanced protection functions.

Which option to choose in Switzerland?

Simple roof, tight budget: string. Fragmented roof, variable shading, monitoring requirement detailed: microinverters. The right choice depends above all on the geometry of the roof, the uses and of the future expansion strategy.

Frequently asked questions

Do microinverters last longer?+

They often benefit from long warranties and good system resilience (local failure instead of central failure). In practice, the lifespan depends above all on the quality of the material, the installation and the thermal conditions on the roof.

Huawei or SolarEdge, is it a microinverter?+

No. Huawei and SolarEdge are primarily string architectures, sometimes with per-module DC optimizers. Optimizers improve shading management, but the main conversion remains centralized in an inverter.

With little shading, should I install microinverters?+

Not necessarily. A well-designed thong, perhaps with some optimizers on sensitive areas, is often more cost-effective while still providing excellent performance.

Sources & method

Manufacturer technical sheets (Enphase, APsystems, Huawei, SolarEdge), installer feedback and production simulations.

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