Best 50W Solar Panels: 10 Spec-Based Picks
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Choosing the best 50W solar panels requires looking past marketing claims and focusing on published specifications. We compared 10 models to find the most reliable options for your needs. The Voltset 50W 12V Solar Battery Maintainer Kit leads this list because its 8-pound weight and 12.8-inch width offer a stable, durable footprint for outdoor battery maintenance. Each pick is based strictly on the data provided by manufacturers. This guide helps you decide which panel fits your specific voltage, size, and mounting requirements.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need a rugged panel with visual status feedback Voltset 50W 12V Solar Battery Maintainer Kit The 1.7-inch height and 8-pound weight provide durable outdoor maintenance with clear monitoring.
- You want the lightest option for backpacking trips SOKIOVOLA 50W Foldable Solar Panel This 2.1-pound foldable panel features USB-C and USB-A ports for direct device charging.
- You require a flexible panel for curved RV roofs Renogy 50W Flexible Solar Panel The 0.16-inch thickness allows low-profile mounting on curved surfaces like boats or RVs.
Our 10 picks
Voltset 50W 12V Solar Battery Maintainer Kit
Best for: Durable outdoor battery maintenance
- Wattage
- 50W (what this guide is about)
- Rated Power
- 50W
- Cell Type
- Monocrystalline
- System Voltage
- 12V
- IP Rating
- IP67
- Weight
- 8 pounds
View on Amazon: Voltset 50W 12V Solar Battery Maintainer Kit
This Voltset kit delivers 50W of power via monocrystalline cells. It includes an intelligent controller with an LED display showing real-time status. The panel features an IP67 waterproof rating and a rugged aluminum frame. It operates in temperatures from -40°F to 185°F. You get a complete 12V charging solution for battery maintenance. The 8-pound build offers durability for outdoor use.
Pros
- Monocrystalline cells for efficient charging
- IP67 waterproof rating for weather resistance
- LED display shows charging status
- Operates from -40°F to 185°F
Cons
- Heavier at 8 pounds than flexible alternatives
- Fixed rigid frame limits surface flexibility
- No Bluetooth or app connectivity
Good fit if
- You need reliable battery maintenance for RVs or boats
- You want real-time visual charging feedback
- You require weather-resistant equipment for outdoor use
Skip if
- You need a lightweight portable panel for hiking
- You want to mount on a curved surface
- You prefer app-based monitoring and control
Verdict: Voltset 50W 12V Solar Panel offers a durable, weather-resistant charging solution with clear visual feedback. It is ideal for users who prioritize rugged construction and real-time status monitoring for stationary battery maintenance.
Renogy 50W Monocrystalline Solar Panel
Best for: fixed outdoor installations requiring high efficiency
- Wattage
- 50W (what this guide is about)
- Rated Power
- 50 W
- Conversion Efficiency
- 25%
- Cell Type
- N-Type Monocrystalline
- IP Rating
- IP65
- Weight
- 5.07 pounds
This Renogy panel delivers 50W of power using N-Type monocrystalline cells with a 25% conversion efficiency. It features a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame and an IP65 rated junction box for outdoor durability. Weighing 5.07 pounds, it is designed to withstand high winds and snow loads. You should choose this model if you need a rigid, high-efficiency panel for fixed installations on boats, RVs, or cabins.
Pros
- 25% conversion efficiency with N-Type monocrystalline cells
- IP65 rated junction box for weather protection
- Corrosion-resistant aluminum frame for outdoor use
- Withstands 2400Pa wind and 5400Pa snow loads
Cons
- Rigid frame limits portability compared to foldable options
- No integrated charge controller included
- Fixed dimensions require specific mounting hardware
Good fit if
- You need a high-efficiency panel for a permanent setup
- You require a rigid panel that resists weather damage
- You are mounting the panel on a roof or rack
Skip if
- You need a lightweight, portable panel for camping
- You require a panel with a built-in charge controller
- You need a flexible panel for curved surfaces
Verdict: Renogy 50W N-Type Monocrystalline Panel offers high efficiency and durability for fixed installations. It suits users who prioritize long-term outdoor performance over portability.
SOLPERK 50W 12V Solar Panel Kit
Best for: Weather-resistant fixed-mount battery maintenance
- Wattage
- 50W (what this guide is about)
- Rated Power
- 50W
- System Voltage
- 12V
- Weight
- 7.2 pounds
- Application
- RV, Car, Marine
- Features
- Solar Charging
This SOLPERK 50W 12V solar kit includes a waterproof panel and a 10A PWM controller. The panel measures 21.3 by 21.3 inches and weighs 7.2 pounds. It features low-iron tempered glass and an aluminum frame. The controller offers intelligent three-stage charging with indicator lights. You get SAE extension cables and mounting hardware. This setup suits RV, car, or marine battery maintenance in various weather conditions.
Pros
- 50W rated power at 12V system voltage
- IP65 waterproof charge controller with three-stage charging
- Low-iron tempered glass withstands 5400Pa snow load
- Includes 10A PWM controller and SAE cables
- Pre-drilled mounting holes for easy installation
Cons
- PWM controller is less efficient than MPPT alternatives
- Fixed panel design limits portability compared to foldable options
- One-year warranty is shorter than some competitors
Good fit if
- You need a complete kit with controller and cables
- You require a waterproof setup for outdoor or marine use
- You want a fixed panel for RV or car battery maintenance
Skip if
- You need high-efficiency MPPT charging technology
- You require a lightweight, foldable portable panel
- You want a longer warranty period than one year
Verdict: SOLPERK 50W 12V Waterproof Solar Kit provides a durable, weather-resistant solution for users who prefer a complete, fixed-mount setup for maintaining 12V batteries in RVs or marine environments.
SOKIOVOLA 50W Foldable Solar Panel
Best for: backpackers wanting lightweight direct device charging
- Wattage
- 50W (what this guide is about)
- Rated Power
- 50W
- Conversion Efficiency
- Up to 24.8%
- Panel Type
- Foldable
- System Voltage
- 18V
- IP Rating
- IP68
This 50W folding panel weighs 2.1 pounds and packs down to 14.7 by 7.88 by 1.19 inches. It features ETFE lamination with an IP68 waterproof rating for the panel surface, reaching up to 24.8 percent cell efficiency. With integrated USB-C PD 30W, USB-A 18W, and 18V DC ports, you can charge devices directly on trail hikes without an intermediate power bank.
Pros
- Weighs 2.1 pounds and folds down to 1.19 inches thick
- Delivers up to 24.8% cell conversion efficiency using ETFE lamination
- Direct fast-charging outputs include USB-C PD 30W and USB-A 18W
- Includes 2-meter DC cable with XT60, DC7909, and Anderson adapters
Cons
- Junction box is not waterproof despite the IP68 panel surface rating
- Does not store electrical power internally
Good fit if
- You want a 2.1-pound folding charger to carry in or clip onto a backpack.
- You need direct off-grid charging for phones or cameras via USB ports without carrying a power station.
- You need out-of-the-box DC connectivity with XT60, Anderson, or DC7909 power station ports.
Skip if
- You operate in wet weather where the non-waterproof junction box risks water exposure.
- You expect the panel to hold an internal battery charge for nighttime use.
Verdict: SOKIOVOLA 50W Foldable Solar Panel suits backpackers and hikers who prioritize low pack weight and direct multi-port device charging on the trail.
Renogy 50W Flexible Solar Panel
Best for: curved RV and boat roof mounting
- Wattage
- 50W (what this guide is about)
- Rated Power
- 50W
- Panel Type
- Flexible
- System Voltage
- 12 Volt
- Weight
- 2.98 pounds
- Dimensions
- 28 × 18.1 × 0.16 inches
This Renogy panel delivers 50 watts at 12 volts in a flexible form factor. It measures 28 by 18.1 inches and weighs just 2.98 pounds. The thin 0.16-inch profile allows it to adhere to curved surfaces like RV roofs. It withstands significant wind and snow loads. You should choose this if you need a lightweight, low-profile power source for mobile or marine applications.
Pros
- Flexible design fits curved surfaces
- Lightweight at 2.98 pounds
- Ultra-thin 0.16-inch profile
- High durability for wind and snow
Cons
- Lower efficiency than rigid N-Type panels
- Fixed size cannot be folded
- Only 50W output capacity
Good fit if
- You need to mount on curved RV or boat roofs
- You require a lightweight panel for easy transport
- You want a low-profile installation that blends in
Skip if
- You need higher efficiency than rigid panels offer
- You require a portable or foldable design for ground use
- You need more than 50 watts of power
Verdict: Renogy Flexible 50W 12V Solar Panel is ideal for users who need to mount power on curved surfaces like RVs or boats. It offers a lightweight, low-profile solution for mobile energy needs.
SOLPERK 50W 12V Solar Panel Kit
Best for: stationary battery maintenance in RVs and boats
- Wattage
- 50W (what this guide is about)
- Rated Power
- 50 W
- Conversion Efficiency
- 21%-30%
- Cell Type
- Monocrystalline
- System Voltage
- 12 V
- Application
- Camping, RV, Marine
This SOLPERK kit includes a 50W monocrystalline panel rated for 12V systems. It features a waterproof IP65 charge controller with three indicator lights to track charging status. The panel measures 21.3 by 21.3 inches and uses low-iron tempered glass. It comes with an adjustable mounting bracket that allows angles from 0 to 60 degrees. This setup is designed for maintaining batteries in RVs, boats, and trailers.
Pros
- Monocrystalline cells with 21%-30% conversion efficiency
- IP65 waterproof charge controller with status lights
- Adjustable mounting bracket with 0, 15, 30, 45, and 60 degree settings
- Withstands 2400Pa wind pressure and 5400Pa snow load
Cons
- Includes only alligator clips instead of MC4 connectors
- Fixed rigid panel design limits portability
- Uses PWM controller technology rather than MPPT
Good fit if
- You need a complete kit for battery maintenance
- You want clear visual charging status indicators
- You require weather-resistant construction for outdoor use
Skip if
- You need high-efficiency MPPT charge controllers
- You require MC4 connectors for easy wiring
- You need a portable or foldable panel design
Verdict: SOLPERK 50W 12V Solar Panel Kit provides a durable, weather-resistant solution for maintaining 12V batteries in stationary applications like RVs and boats. It suits users who prioritize a complete installation kit with clear status monitoring over portable flexibility.
ZOUPW 50W N-Type Marine Solar Panel
Best for: compact 12V off-grid and marine applications
- Wattage
- 50W (what this guide is about)
- Rated Power
- 50W
- Conversion Efficiency
- 25.6%
- Cell Type
- N-Type monocrystalline
- System Voltage
- 12V
- Busbar Count
- 16BB
The ZOUPW 50W solar panel uses N-type monocrystalline cells to deliver 25.6% conversion efficiency. It operates on a 12V system and weighs 8.81 pounds. The IP68 rating ensures waterproof protection, while the 16BB busbar design helps reduce hot spots. This compact unit fits well for RVs, marine use, or off-grid cabins where reliable energy generation is needed.
Pros
- 25.6% conversion efficiency with N-type monocrystalline cells
- IP68 waterproof rating for outdoor durability
- 16BB busbar design reduces hot spot risks
- Weighs 8.81 pounds for portable mounting
Cons
- Limited to 12V system compatibility
- Only includes the panel without a charge controller
- 10-year warranty is shorter than typical 25-year industry standards
Good fit if
- You need high efficiency in a compact 50W form factor
- You require waterproof protection for marine or outdoor use
- You are setting up a 12V off-grid power system
Skip if
- You need a 24V system compatible panel
- You want a complete kit with an included charge controller
- You prefer a standard 25-year product warranty
Verdict: The ZOUPW 50W N-Type Monocrystalline Panel offers strong efficiency and weather resistance for small-scale power needs. It is a solid choice for RV owners or boaters who prioritize compact size and high output per square inch.
SOLPERK 50W 24V Solar Panel Kit
Best for: 24V battery systems needing weatherproof durability
- Wattage
- 50W (what this guide is about)
- Rated Power
- 50W
- Conversion Efficiency
- Up to 30%
- Cell Type
- Monocrystalline silicon
- System Voltage
- 24V
- IP Rating
- IP67
This SOLPERK kit delivers 50W of power at 24V using monocrystalline silicon cells with up to 30% conversion efficiency. It includes an intelligent 10A PWM controller rated IP65 and a panel rated IP67 for weather resistance. Weighing 9.28 pounds, it suits home, outdoor, RV, and marine applications. The adjustable mounts allow flexible installation on rooftops or walls. It is designed for 24V battery systems like LiFePO4 and AGM.
Pros
- High 30% conversion efficiency from monocrystalline cells
- IP67 waterproof rating for the panel
- Includes intelligent 10A PWM charge controller
- Adjustable mounts for flexible installation angles
Cons
- Limited to 24V system compatibility
- PWM controller is less efficient than MPPT
- Heavier than flexible panel alternatives
Good fit if
- You need a 24V battery charging solution
- You require high weather resistance for outdoor use
- You want a complete kit with a controller included
Skip if
- You only have 12V battery systems
- You need maximum charging efficiency with MPPT
- You require a lightweight portable panel
Verdict: SOLPERK 50W 24V Solar Panel Kit is a robust option for users needing a weatherproof 24V setup with integrated control. It fits homes and RVs where weight is less critical than durability and ease of installation.
Goal Zero Boulder 50 Monocrystalline Solar Panel
Best for: Durable vehicle mounting and fixed installations
- Wattage
- 50W (what this guide is about)
- Rated Power
- 50W
- Cell Type
- Monocrystalline
- Weight
- 12.4 pounds
- Dimensions
- 21.8 × 26.8 × 1.75 inches
View on Amazon: Goal Zero Boulder 50 Monocrystalline Solar Panel
The Goal Zero Boulder 50 is a 50W monocrystalline solar panel designed for reliable outdoor power. It measures 26.8 by 21.8 inches and weighs 12.4 pounds. The unit features a durable anodized aluminum frame with tempered glass and a built-in kickstand for optimal positioning. It is engineered for use with Goal Zero power stations or standalone mounting on vehicles and sheds.
Pros
- Monocrystalline cells for efficient energy conversion
- Anodized aluminum frame with corner protection
- Tempered glass covering for weatherproof durability
- Built-in kickstand for adjustable positioning
Cons
- 2-year warranty is shorter than typical industry standards
- Fixed rigid panel limits portability compared to foldable options
- No integrated charge controller included in base unit
Good fit if
- You need a durable, weatherproof panel for permanent vehicle mounting
- You already own a Goal Zero power station for easy integration
- You prefer a rigid, low-profile design that resists wind uplift
Skip if
- You require a foldable design for backpacking or compact storage
- You need a panel with a built-in MPPT or PWM controller
- You want a warranty longer than two years for peace of mind
Verdict: Goal Zero Boulder 50 Monocrystalline Panel is a rugged, weather-resistant choice for users who prioritize durability and integrated kickstand positioning over portability. It fits best with Goal Zero ecosystems or fixed vehicle mounts.
Brrnoo 50W Heated Blanket Solar Panel
Best for: campers needing portable solar heat
- Wattage
- 50W (what this guide is about)
- Rated Power
- 50W
- Panel Type
- Monocrystalline
- Application
- Camping, Outdoor, Hiking
- Dimensions
- 18.1 × 11.8 × 1.57 inches
This Brrnoo unit combines a 50W monocrystalline solar panel with a heated blanket. It measures 18.1 by 11.8 inches and offers two adjustable heating gears. The design allows you to harness solar energy directly for warmth without external power. It is lightweight and compact, making it suitable for hiking, camping, or outdoor events where you need portable heat.
Pros
- 50W monocrystalline solar panel capacity
- Integrated heated blanket with two gear settings
- Compact dimensions of 18.1 x 11.8 inches
- Lightweight and portable design for outdoor use
Cons
- Heating options limited to only two gears
- No mention of waterproof rating for the blanket
- Panel is not flexible like other blanket-style options
Good fit if
- You need a solar-powered heating solution for cold weather camping
- You prefer a compact panel that doubles as a blanket
- You want to save energy by using direct solar heat
Skip if
- You require multiple heating levels for precise temperature control
- You need a fully waterproof panel for heavy rain exposure
- You want a flexible panel that conforms to curved surfaces
Verdict: Brrnoo 50W Heated Blanket Solar Panel fits campers who want a single device to generate power and provide warmth. It is a practical pick for hikers who value compact, multi-use gear.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Voltset 50W 12V Solar Battery Maintainer Kit | Renogy 50W Monocrystalline Solar Panel | SOLPERK 50W 12V Solar Panel Kit | SOKIOVOLA 50W Foldable Solar Panel | Renogy 50W Flexible Solar Panel | SOLPERK 50W 12V Solar Panel Kit | ZOUPW 50W N-Type Marine Solar Panel | SOLPERK 50W 24V Solar Panel Kit | Goal Zero Boulder 50 Monocrystalline Solar Panel | Brrnoo 50W Heated Blanket Solar Panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rated Power | 50W | 50 W | 50W | 50W | 50W | 50 W | 50W | 50W | 50W | 50W |
| Conversion Efficiency | not specified | 25% | not specified | Up to 24.8% | not specified | 21%-30% | 25.6% | Up to 30% | not specified | not specified |
| Panel Type | not specified | not specified | not specified | Foldable | Flexible | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Monocrystalline |
| Cell Type | Monocrystalline | N-Type Monocrystalline | not specified | not specified | not specified | Monocrystalline | N-Type monocrystalline | Monocrystalline silicon | Monocrystalline | not specified |
| System Voltage | 12V | not specified | 12V | 18V | 12 Volt | 12 V | 12V | 24V | not specified | not specified |
| Busbar Count | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 16BB | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| IP Rating | IP67 | IP65 | not specified | IP68 | not specified | not specified | IP68 | IP67 | not specified | not specified |
| Weight | 8 pounds | 5.07 pounds | 7.2 pounds | 2.1 pounds | 2.98 pounds | not specified | 8.81 pounds | 9.28 pounds | 12.4 pounds | not specified |
| Wattage | 50W | 50W | 50W | 50W | 50W | 50W | 50W | 50W | 50W | 50W |
| Application | not specified | not specified | RV, Car, Marine | Camping, Outdoor, RV, Hiking | not specified | Camping, RV, Marine | RV, Off-Grid, Marine | Camping, Home, Outdoor, RV, Car, Marine | not specified | Camping, Outdoor, Hiking |
| Features | not specified | Solar Charging | Solar Charging | Solar Charging | not specified | Solar Charging | not specified | Solar Charging | not specified | not specified |
| Voltage | 12V | not specified | 12V | not specified | not specified | 12V | 12V | 24V | not specified | not specified |
| Output Ports | not specified | not specified | not specified | USB-C, USB-A | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Water Resistance | not specified | not specified | Waterproof | not specified | not specified | Waterproof | Waterproof | Waterproof | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 14.6 × 12.8 × 1.7 inches | 22.9 × 20 × 1.18 inches | 21.3 × 21.3 × 1 inches | 14.7 × 7.88 × 1.19 inches | 28 × 18.1 × 0.16 inches | 21.3 × 21.3 × 4.45 inches | 30.1 × 1.18 × 18.4 inches | 21.3 × 21.3 × 0.98 inches | 21.8 × 26.8 × 1.75 inches | 18.1 × 11.8 × 1.57 inches |
| Size | 50W Kit | 50 W Monocrystalline Solar Panel | 50W PWM+Load Kit | 50W-SP | 50W-Black | 50W | 1 Pack 50W N-Type Solar Panel | 50W 24V (with Controller) | One Size | #811 |
| Color | Silver | 50W Solar Panel | Black | Orange | Black/White | not specified | Black | Black | Black | #811 |
| Model | 50W | Solar Panel 50 Watt | SOLPERK | SJSO50 | Flexible Solar Panel 50 Watt 12 Volt | 00c2ad2e-6adf-4baf-9ff4-9c711c239d4c | ZOUPW 50 | 50W | 32406 | BRRNOOqbu40pcsot |
For tools that draw similar wattage, you can compare the best 50W laser engravers based on their technical specifications.
How to choose the right one
-
Check Panel Flexibility
Determine if you need a rigid or flexible design for your mount. Rigid panels like the Renogy 50W Monocrystalline offer high durability for fixed outdoor installations. Flexible options, such as the Renogy 50W Flexible Solar Panel, bend to fit curved RV or boat roofs. The flexible model weighs only 2.98 pounds and has a thin 0.16-inch profile. Choose rigid panels for stationary setups where weight is less critical. Select flexible panels for curved surfaces or where low profile mounting is required.
-
Evaluate Portability Needs
Consider how often you will move the panel. Foldable designs like the SOKIOVOLA 50W Foldable Solar Panel are ideal for backpackers. It weighs just 2.1 pounds and packs down to 7.88 inches wide. This lightweight form factor suits hikers who need to carry gear on their backs. In contrast, stationary kits like the Voltset 50W weigh 8 pounds and are larger. They are not designed for frequent transport. Match the weight and folded size to your carrying method.
-
Verify Voltage Compatibility
Ensure the panel voltage matches your battery system. Most 50W panels output 12V, suitable for standard RVs and boats. The Voltset 50W 12V Kit and SOLPERK 50W 12V Kit both target this voltage. However, the SOLPERK 50W 24V Solar Panel Kit outputs 24V. This is necessary for larger home or marine battery banks. Using a 12V panel on a 24V system will not charge it correctly. Check the voltage specification before purchasing to ensure compatibility with your existing power infrastructure.
-
Assess Weather Resistance
Look for waterproof ratings if the panel will face rain or snow. The SOLPERK 50W 12V Solar Panel Kit is rated waterproof for marine environments. The ZOUPW 50W N-Type Marine Solar Panel offers an IP68 rating, providing strong protection against water immersion. This is crucial for boats or off-grid sites exposed to harsh weather. Panels without explicit water resistance ratings may degrade faster outdoors. Prioritize models with clear waterproof or IP68 specifications for long-term outdoor reliability and durability.
-
Check Output Ports
Determine if you need direct device charging or just battery maintenance. The SOKIOVOLA 50W Foldable Solar Panel includes USB-C and USB-A ports. This allows you to charge phones or tablets directly on the trail. Other models, like the Voltset 50W 12V Kit, focus on battery maintenance and may require additional controllers. If you need to power devices directly, look for integrated USB ports. Otherwise, a standard panel with a controller is sufficient for keeping batteries topped up.
Frequently asked questions
What is the lightest 50W solar panel for hiking?
The SOKIOVOLA 50W Foldable Solar Panel weighs just 2.1 pounds. It measures 7.88 by 14.7 inches when folded. This compact size and low weight make it ideal for backpackers. It includes USB-C and USB-A ports for direct device charging on the trail.
Which 50W panel works with a 24V battery system?
The SOLPERK 50W 24V Solar Panel Kit is designed for 24V systems. It features a waterproof build and integrated controller. The panel measures 21.3 by 21.3 inches. It weighs 9.28 pounds. This setup suits homes or larger RVs where durability matters more than portability.
Can I mount a 50W solar panel on a curved RV roof?
Yes, the Renogy 50W Flexible Solar Panel fits curved surfaces. It is only 0.16 inches thick and weighs 2.98 pounds. Its low-profile design allows it to adhere to boat or RV roofs. This flexibility ensures secure mounting without drilling holes in the roof structure.
What 50W panel has the best weather resistance for marine use?
The ZOUPW 50W N-Type Marine Solar Panel offers an IP68 rating. It is fully waterproof and built for harsh marine environments. The panel measures 18.4 by 30.1 inches. Its N-Type monocrystalline cells provide high efficiency in small-scale off-grid applications.
Does the Voltset 50W kit include a controller?
The Voltset 50W 12V Solar Battery Maintainer Kit is designed for durable outdoor maintenance. It provides clear visual feedback for real-time status monitoring. The kit weighs 8 pounds and measures 12.8 by 14.6 inches. It is ideal for stationary battery care with rugged construction.
What is the most efficient 50W panel for fixed installations?
The Renogy 50W Monocrystalline Solar Panel uses N-Type cells for high efficiency. It is built for fixed outdoor installations requiring long-term performance. The panel weighs 5.07 pounds and measures 20 by 22.9 inches. It prioritizes durability and output over portable flexibility.
Is there a 50W solar panel that doubles as a blanket?
The Brrnoo 50W Heated Blanket Solar Panel combines power generation with warmth. It uses monocrystalline cells for solar charging. The panel measures 11.8 by 18.1 inches. It is a practical choice for campers who want compact, multi-use gear for hiking and outdoor stays.