When it comes to alternator charging for your off-grid electrical system, two standout options dominate the market: the REDARC BCDC Alpha100 R DC Battery Manager and the Victron Orion XS 12/12-50 DC-DC Charger (Non-Isolated).
Both are exceptional components—but which one is right for your build? Today, we’re going to cover how these two chargers compare in performance, features, installation, and price so that you can make an informed decision for your rig.
Best DC-DC Charger for Alternator Charging: Victron vs REDARC Compared – VIDEO
Overview: What Both Chargers Do
At their core, both units serve the same purpose: charging your house (auxiliary) battery bank from your vehicle’s alternator. Both do this very well, but they differ significantly in how they handle power, system integration, and additional functionality.
- Victron Orion XS 12/12-50: 50 amps output (~700 watts), compact form factor, available in both 12V and 24V configurations.
- REDARC BCDC Alpha100 R: 100 amps output (~1,400 watts), integrated solar controller, and reverse charging capability for your starter battery.
Size and Output Power
The Victron Orion XS is much smaller than the REDARC Alpha100 R, largely because it outputs half the current. To match the REDARC’s 100-amp output, you would need two Orion XS units.
While two Victron chargers may seem similar in footprint, keep in mind that the wiring required for a dual setup adds bulk and complexity. Once wiring is considered, the REDARC actually takes up less overall space than two Victrons.
If faster charging is your top priority, the REDARC wins.
If minimizing size and simplifying your system is more important, the Victron is the better fit.
System Integration & Communication
If your build uses other Victron components—such as the Cerbo GX, Ekrano GX, or the Victron Connect app—the Orion XS integrates seamlessly. It communicates over VE.Direct and can display live performance data alongside your other Victron gear.
The REDARC Alpha100 R, on the other hand, has its own app and doesn’t communicate within the Victron ecosystem. However, if you use a Victron SmartShunt or BMV-712, you’ll still see overall charging performance through your shunt readings.
So, if Victron ecosystem integration is key for you, choose the Orion XS.
If you just want to monitor total charging performance and don’t mind using a separate app, the REDARC will work just fine.
Solar Charging and Reverse Charging Features
This is where the REDARC Alpha100 R really stands out.
It has built-in solar charging with a 48V input limit—ideal for up to about 500–700 watts of solar in real-world use. It can even prioritize solar charging over alternator charging, reducing alternator strain when sunlight is available.
Another key feature is reverse charging:
If your starter battery is low, the REDARC can pull power from your house battery to top it up. This can be a lifesaver if you accidentally drain your starter battery while camping.
The Victron Orion XS, meanwhile, does not include solar or reverse charging features. Victron prefers a modular approach—pairing separate components for specific tasks, such as using a SmartSolar MPPT for solar management.
If solar and reverse charging are high on your list, REDARC wins hands-down.
If you prefer modular simplicity and flexibility, stick with Victron.
Price Comparison
Let’s break down the pricing for a realistic, apples-to-apples comparison:
| Setup | Components | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| REDARC BCDC Alpha100 R (25 ft kit) | Charger + wiring kit | $1,858.99 |
| REDARC BCDC Alpha100 R (50 ft kit) | Charger + wiring kit | $2,108.99 |
| Dual Victron Orion XS (40 ft kit) | Two Orions + wiring | $1,096.19 |
| Dual Victron Orion XS + MPPT + wiring | Two Orions + MPPT + wiring | $1,347.63 |
While the Victron setup is less expensive, it requires more installation time—roughly three times longer than wiring a single REDARC unit.
If you value simplicity and time savings, REDARC may justify the cost.
If you’re budget-conscious and comfortable with more wiring, Victron delivers excellent performance for less money.
Build Quality and Reliability
Both brands have excellent reputations:
- Victron: Over 50 years in the marine and off-grid power industries.
- REDARC: More than 40 years in commercial and heavy-duty vehicle power systems.
Both are proven, high-quality products built for demanding environments. You really can’t go wrong with either.
Final Thoughts
Here’s how to decide which charger fits your needs best:
- 💰 Best for Value: Victron Orion XS
- ⚡ Best for Solar Integration: REDARC Alpha100 R
- 🔄 Best for Reverse Charging: REDARC Alpha100 R
- 🧠 Best for Full Victron Ecosystems: Victron Orion XS
If you’re ready to add one of these to your system, you can pick them up directly from our store:
Both options are priced the same as anywhere else online, and your purchase directly supports the tutorials and resources we create here at EXPLORIST.life.
If you need help designing your setup or deciding which option fits best in your system, reach out to our tech support team at shop.explorist.life/support — we’re happy to help get you pointed in the right direction.
