Short answer — the brands that consistently rank best for U.S. residential solar in 2024–2025 are (in no particular single-order for every homeowner): Maxeon (SunPower’s successor brand), REC, Qcells, Panasonic, Canadian Solar, Silfab, Jinko/JA Solar, and a few U.S.-focused makers such as SEG/Sumitomo/VSUN depending on model availability. These names repeatedly appear near the top of EnergySage, SolarReviews, PV‑Magazine and other industry rankings because they combine high efficiency, strong test performance and long warranties. (energysage.com)

How to read that list (what matters most)

• Efficiency and panel output: higher-efficiency panels (e.g., Maxeon/Top SunPower-style cells, REC Alpha series) produce more energy per roof area — important if your roof is small or oddly shaped. (energysage.com)
• Durability & testing: look for panels with strong third‑party test results (PVEL/UL/IEC) and good temperature coefficients for hot climates (Panasonic models often score well here). (pv-magazine.com)
• Warranties: product warranty + power (performance) warranty length and guaranteed output at 25–40 years vary a lot — Maxeon offers very long (40‑year) warranties on some lines, while many good brands offer 25–30 years. Longer warranties add value if you expect to stay in the house long term. (energysage.com)
• Value (performance per dollar): REC, Qcells, and some Canadian Solar/Jinko models often give better cost-to-output balance if budget is a priority. (energysage.com)
• Availability & installer preference: many installers have preferred brands (inventory, local support, microinverter/optimizer compatibility). A top-rated panel that your installer can’t source or support may not be the best practical choice. (energysage.com)

Quick brand notes (strengths)

• Maxeon (formerly SunPower tech): top efficiency and long warranties — premium price; excellent for limited roof area. (energysage.com)
• REC: high-efficiency models with very competitive price/performance and solid warranties — good mid/high-range option. (energysage.com)
• Qcells: consistently high rankings from SolarReviews and good balance of quality, warranty and price; growing U.S. manufacturing footprint. (solarreviews.com)
• Panasonic: strong temperature performance and reliability (good in hot climates); historically popular on EnergySage lists. (pv-magazine.com)
• Canadian Solar / Jinko / JA Solar / Longi: large manufacturers with many high‑value models; good options when cost and bankability matter. (solarreviews.com)
• Silfab & SEG (and some regional U.S. assemblers): often ranked highly for quality and U.S. market focus — worth considering if you want more local manufacturing/assembly. (solarreviews.com)

Which one should you pick?

• If roof space is tight: prioritize highest efficiency (Maxeon, REC high‑end). (energysage.com)
• If budget is primary concern: look for REC, Canadian Solar, Jinko or Qcells value lines (compare warranty and degradation specs). (energysage.com)
• If you live in very hot climates: prefer models with strong temperature coefficients (Panasonic and certain Maxeon/REC models). (pv-magazine.com)
• If you want longest-term peace of mind: favor panels with long combined product + performance warranties (Maxeon and some premium REC models). (energysage.com)

Practical next steps

1. Get 2–3 quotes from reputable local installers that list the exact panel model and inverter. Ask about panel datasheets, warranty transferability, and local warranty handling. (energysage.com)
2. Compare installed system price per watt, expected annual production (using your roof tilt/azimuth), and warranty terms — don’t pick solely on brand name. (energysage.com)
3. Check third‑party test results (PVEL Top Performer lists) and recent brand rankings (EnergySage, SolarReviews) for the specific model you’re quoted. (energysage.com)

If you want, I can:

• narrow the list to 3–4 best options tailored to your priorities (budget, roof size, climate), or
• compare specific panel models if you have installer quotes or model names.

Sources: EnergySage (2025 brand rankings and model details), SolarReviews (brand rankings), pv‑magazine / press coverage summarizing EnergySage and SolarReviews analyses, and marketplace selection data. (energysage.com)