Solar Shingles Vs Solar Panels: Which is Better?
- Sarah Lozanova
- Nov 19
- 6 min read
Table of Contents
When Elon Musk introduced the Tesla solar roof in 2016, it brought the dream of seamless solar energy into the mainstream. The idea was simple: replace bulky solar panels with integrated tiles that look like a traditional roof while generating clean electricity.
While solar roof shingles (or solar tiles) are still less common than standard panels, the buzz they created pushed the market to innovate. For homeowners, the decision now often comes down to two major factors: aesthetics and maximum long-term savings.
Is the sleek, integrated look of shingles worth the higher upfront cost, or does the superior efficiency of traditional panels win out?
With our 12+ years of experience in solar design and engineering, we’ve helped thousands of people navigate both technologies. Here’s a straightforward comparison to help you find the best fit for your home or next project.
What Are Solar Roof Shingles?
Solar roof shingles (also called photovoltaic shingles) are roofing materials designed to do two jobs at once: generate solar energy and protect your home from the elements.
As a form of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), these systems combine a traditional roof's function with active solar technology. Some designs fully hide the solar cells for a perfectly clean look, while others maintain a low profile that still blends better than mounted panels. For homeowners prioritizing curb appeal, solar shingles are where form truly meets function.
How Do Solar Shingles Work?
Functionally, solar shingles and traditional solar panels operate almost identically. Both systems use photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into DC electricity, require an inverter to convert that DC power into usable AC power, and are suitable for both grid-tied and off-grid applications.
The core difference is how they are installed:
Solar Panels are mounted on top of your existing or new roof structure.
Solar Shingles replace the traditional roofing material itself.
This integration means that installing solar shingles often involves a full roof replacement, providing the homeowner with a completely new roof surface and an energy generator in one package.
Solar Shingles, Tiles, and BIPV
Yes, solar shingles and solar tiles are essentially the same product, and the terms are often used interchangeably. Both fall under the broader category of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics.
The term used often depends on the manufacturer's specific product design (e.g., Tesla uses a "tile" look, while others resemble an asphalt "shingle"). Regardless of the name, the goal is the same: to generate electricity discreetly while performing the full protective function of your roof.
Solar Shingles vs. Solar Panels: Key Differences
Here is a quick side-by-side comparison of the two photovoltaic technologies.
Performance Comparison: Efficiency, Aesthetics, and Cost
Efficiency and Performance
When comparing solar shingles vs. solar panels, traditional panels hold the advantage in efficiency. Standalone panels allow for optimal airflow beneath them, which keeps the cells cooler. Cooler cells convert more sunlight into electricity.
Premium solar panels often exceed 20% efficiency.
Photovoltaic shingles generally range between 14% and 18%.
If you have a limited roof area but high energy needs, standard panels will give you a higher energy output per square foot.
Home Aesthetics and Curb Appeal
Aesthetics is the biggest selling point for solar shingles. They integrate so well that they maintain your home's original curb appeal. This is a clear advantage over traditional panels, which are bulky and conspicuously mounted.
For homeowners in HOA communities with strict aesthetic rules, solar shingles are often the only approved solar solution.
Cost and Installation
Cost is where the tables turn. Solar panels are significantly more affordable per watt installed.
Solar shingles come with a higher initial cost because they serve as both your energy generator and your new roof. However, there are times when this cost evens out:
If you need a new roof anyway, replacing an old roof with solar shingles means you combine two major costs into one project, often qualifying the entire installation for federal solar tax credits.
Panels are ideal if your roof is relatively new.
Top Solar Shingle Products and Brands
The market offers several proven options, typically falling into two categories: integrated (seamless) and interlocking (low profile). However, the solar shingle industry, like the broader photovoltaic market, is volatile and constantly changing, facing hurdles like significant tariffs that have forced some American manufacturers out of business.
The most recognized name, Tesla offers an integrated glass tile system with a 25-year warranty. While highly aesthetic, the system is known for a higher price point and specialized, sometimes complex, installation requirements.
Despite the significant media attention, Tesla solar panel shingles have faced some challenges. Production delays, high costs, and legal issues, including lawsuits related to defective products and installation delays, have impacted the product’s adoption rate. Nevertheless, Tesla continues to refine its solar roof technology and remains a key player in the quest for sustainable, aesthetically pleasing solar solutions.
CertainTeed offers the Apollo II system, designed to replace only parts of the roof where sunlight is optimal. It offers flexibility as it can be installed on new or existing asphalt shingle roofs, but it may have a more distinct look compared to the non-solar parts of the roof.
GAF, a major roofing manufacturer, offers an interlocking shingle system that focuses on easy integration and combining traditional roofing protection with power generation. This is a common solution for contractors already familiar with GAF roofing products.
A premium, robust option, Luma Solar focuses on extreme durability (designed to withstand Category 5 hurricanes) and high energy output, marketing itself as an upgradable system.
SunTegra Shingles (Discontinued)
SunTegra offered an interlocking solar shingle system known for its low profile and reduced weight. This system was an excellent choice for older homes or buildings with limited load-bearing capacity, as it attaches directly to existing roofing materials without adding excessive structural burden.
How Much Do Solar Roof Shingles Cost?
It is difficult to give a precise "ballpark" price because the cost of PV shingles depends on several factors: the roof size, the complexity of the roofline, the specific product chosen, and the capacity of the solar system.
For example, a high-capacity Tesla system can cost $50,000 or more before incentives for an average-sized home and roof.
Both shingles and panels qualify for federal, state, and local solar incentives and rebates. However, because shingles are typically less efficient, they may produce less total electricity over time, potentially resulting in slightly lower energy bill savings than a maxed-out standard panel system.
Pros And Cons Of Solar Roof Shingles vs Panels
When comparing solar shingles vs solar panels, the key difference lies in aesthetics and installation. Solar panels are typically added to an existing roof, while solar shingles replace the roof itself. This makes shingles a more integrated solution, but panels may still offer a better performance-to-cost ratio for some homeowners.
✅ Pros of Solar Shingles
Solar shingles offer several advantages for homeowners looking for a sleek and efficient way to incorporate renewable energy into their homes, blending aesthetics, functionality, and long-term savings.
Unmatched Curb Appeal: They blend seamlessly into the roof, making them ideal for homes where traditional panels are considered unsightly.
HOA Friendly: Often approved in communities with strict aesthetic guidelines.
Combines Projects: Saves money and hassle by eliminating the need to remove and reinstall panels during a future roof replacement.
Long-Term Durability: Many options, particularly those made with metal or robust glass, are highly weather-resistant.
❌ Cons of Solar Roof Shingles
Solar roof shingles offer a unique alternative to traditional solar panels, blending seamlessly into the roof for a sleek, integrated look. However, when comparing solar shingles vs solar panels, there are several drawbacks to consider.
High Initial Cost: Shingles are a newer technology and are more expensive than standard panels, especially if you don't need a roof replacement yet.
Lower Efficiency: You may need more square footage of shingles to achieve the same energy output as fewer standard panels.
Installation Complexity: Installation takes longer and requires specialized contractors, which can limit availability and increase labor costs.
Limited Capacity Expansion: Once installed, expanding the system is more difficult than simply adding another rack-mounted panel.
Solar Shingles vs Solar Panels: Which Is Best For Your Clients?
Ultimately, whether solar shingles are a good fit for a home depends on the home's goals and project budget. As solar roof shingles become more common, the prices may decrease, creating more widespread appeal.
Whether you're a solar contractor looking for fast, code-compliant permit plan sets or a homeowner in need of expert solar repairs or upgrades, GreenLancer has you covered. Our U.S.-based team and nationwide network of licensed professionals deliver reliable support for every stage of your solar projects. Complete the form below to get started.