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Our solar experts delve into the Suntech Ultra V Pro Mini 460W’s key specs, pros and cons, cost and warranties so you can decide whether it’s the right solar panel for your needs.
Founded in 2001, Suntech is a solar panel manufacturer for residential, commercial and utility purposes.
The Suntech Ultra V Pro series is a range of highly efficient N-type silicon solar panels, including compact models called “Mini”. Our solar experts have selected the Suntech Ultra V Pro Mini 460W as one of the best solar panels on the market today thanks to its good output and efficiency, small footprint, and durability.
| Panel efficiency | 23.00% |
| Power output | 460W |
| Degradation in first year | 1% |
| Degradation rate per year after first year | 0.4% |
| Product warranty | 15 years |
| Performance warranty | 30 years |
| Weight | 21.5kg |
| Size | 1762 × 1134 × 30 mm |
The Suntech Ultra V Pro Mini is made from N-type silicon solar cells, making it more efficient than older PERC solar panels. These types of cells are also less susceptible to light-induced degradation and are more heat-resistant, so they can function efficiently even in warmer weather. Another advantage for UK homes is N-type solar panels work well even in overcast conditions and low light.
Below, we’ve pitted the Suntech Ultra V Mini 460W against other panels in our guide so you can compare its specs.
| Solar panel brand | Efficiency | Power output | Product warranty | Performance warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suntech Ultra V Pro Mini | 23.00% | 460W | 12 years | 30 years |
| Project Solar Evolution Max | 25.50% | 500W | Lifetime | Lifetime |
| Trina Vertex Bifacial Dual Glass | 22.70% | 505W | 15 years | 30 years |
| REC Alpha Pure RX Series | 22.60% | 470W | 20 years | 25 years |
| Aiko Neostar 3P54 | 23.50% | 470W | 25 years | 30 years |
| Perlight 515W Double Glass PLK Transparent | 23.17% | 515W | 30 years | 30 years |
| JA Solar JAM60S4 LR | 22.70% | 530W | 12 years | 25 years |
| Jinko Tiger Neo 54HL4R-B 445W | 22.27% | 445W | 25 years | 30 years |
Suntech solar panels are on the affordable end of the spectrum, costing around £100 and £200 per panel.
Suntech solar panels are relatively low maintenance and should work well all year round.
That said, we’d recommend giving them a regular clean (maybe twice a year, or after a big storm or snowfall for example) to ensure they keep generating the amount of energy they are supposed to. To do so, don’t use bristled brushes or abrasives; a simple spray with a hose should clear any debris, or you can very lightly clean your panels with the soft side of a sponge to get rid of any bird droppings.
Compared to some of its competitors, Suntech warranties are rather short. In particular, the product warranty on the Suntech Ultra V Pro Mini is just 12 years, far below that of Project Solar, REC or Perlight.
The linear warranty, which guarantees the panel keeps generating a certain amount of energy throughout its lifetime, is 30 years, which is in line with the industry standard.
While there aren’t many reviews of Suntech solar panels to be found online, our survey of over 2,000 solar panel owners* showed that most of the brand’s customers were satisfied with their panels. Indeed, 91.70 per cent of Suntech solar panel owners we surveyed would recommend the brand to others.
The Suntech Ultra V Mini 460W is a great residential rooftop module. Its compact size (compared to utility-scale panels) makes it easier to fit on typical pitched roofs while still delivering high power. The N-type TOPCon technology gives it better efficiency and longevity than older PERC modules.
Because of its high efficiency and decent power, we think it’s a great panel for homeowners who want high power density on their roof but don’t have a lot of space. While its product warranty isn’t the longest, its performance guarantee and durability make it a very good choice for a long-term, reliable solar installation.
Yes, Suntech is a Chinese company headquartered in Wuxi. The company filed for bankruptcy in 2013 but was acquired by Shunfeng International Clean Energy Limited in 2014 and still operates globally today.
After reviewing dozens of solar PV panels, our experts have included the Suntech Ultra V Pro Mini in their roundup of the best solar panels on the market.
When we review solar panels, our final score is based on the following:
For more information, read our article on how we review solar panels.
* The Federation of Master Builders survey of 2,004 UK solar panel owners, June 2024.