If you’re setting up a dual battery system for your 4WD, caravan, or off-grid setup, you’ve probably come across both DCDC chargers and MPPT solar charge controllers. While they both help you keep your auxiliary battery charged and healthy, they serve different purposes – and understanding the difference is key to choosing the right gear for your adventure setup.
What Is a DCDC Charger?
A DCDC charger takes power from your vehicle’s alternator or starter battery and converts it into a controlled charge for your auxiliary battery.
Unlike basic isolators, a DCDC charger:
- Delivers a consistent, multi-stage charge (ideal for AGM, lithium and other smart battery types)
- Compensates for voltage drop over long cable runs
- Works with smart alternators found in most modern vehicles
In other words, it gives your secondary battery a proper, regulated charge even when the engine is running – whether you're on the highway or crawling through the bush.
What Is an MPPT Charger?
An MPPT charger (short for Maximum Power Point Tracking solar controller) is designed to take power from your solar panel and convert it into the most efficient charge possible for your battery.
It does this by:
- Tracking the ideal voltage and current (the “maximum power point”) from your solar panel
- Boosting efficiency by up to 30% over older-style PWM controllers
- Delivering a safe, multi-stage charge to protect your battery
MPPT chargers are a must-have if you want to get the most out of your solar setup – especially when dealing with changing sunlight, shade, or partially cloudy skies.
So… Which One Do You Need?
The answer is... it depends on how you’re charging your auxiliary battery.
Many KickAss DCDC chargers feature built-in MPPT solar charging, so you don’t have to install two separate devices. Some models support the ability to select either the alternator or solar as the priority input, while others automatically default to the alternator. Alternatively, you can buy a separate MPPT Solar Charge Controller to add to your setup as a standalone product.
Final Tips
- AGM, Gel, Calcium or Lithium? Make sure your charger is compatible with your battery type.
- Solar Panel Specs: MPPT controllers perform best with higher-voltage panels – check the voltage input range of your MPPT or DCDC+MPPT unit.
- Mounting Location: Both DCDC chargers and MPPT chargers are best installed close to the auxiliary battery.
At KickAss, we design our chargers to suit the real-world needs of our customers. Whether you’re after a simple install or building a full off-grid rig, we’ve got a charger that’ll do the job – and will keep doing it for years to come.
Still not sure which one you need? Drop into one of our retail stores, or give us a call on (07) 3123 4715 – our team of 12V experts will be happy to chat.
