Because each uses a distinct manufacturing technology, monocrystalline solar panels are somewhat more efficient than polycrystalline panels.
A monocrystalline cell is made up of a single crystal ingot, while a polycrystalline cell is made up of numerous crystal structures in a growth.
Most monocrystalline cells have a peak efficiency of 22 percent, whereas most polycrystalline cells have a peak efficiency of 18 percent. Polycrystalline cells are blue, but monocrystalline cells are a dark blue that nearly looks black.
Both kinds of cells are produced from silicon ingots, although monocrystalline silicon has a greater purity requirement.