The solar table was built by the team at our Louisville testing lab, where CNET experts test rooftop and portable solar panels, solar batteries, portable power stations, solar generators and more.

Wondering what the output of a solar panel is? We’ll break down that question and its answer to help you understand solar panels before you buy.

To calculate how much output a solar panel generates, use the panel's wattage rating, which is the maximum electricity the solar panel can generate under ideal conditions, said Gallagher.