Victron Orion
The smart choice for your onboard energy system
One of the most popular products in our range is the Victron Orion.
But what makes the Orion so special? And what do all the different options mean? In this article, we give you the information you need to choose the right Orion for your situation. Whether you are looking for a DC-DC inverter or a powerful charger, the Victron Orion is always right for you!

What is the Victron Orion?
You might think of the constellation when you hear "Orion", but Victron has given this name to a series of smart DC-DC converters and chargers.
These devices ensure that power is properly converted or charged, keeping your electrical system stable and reliable. Whether charging batteries or converting voltage, the Orion does it all.
Victron
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Victron Orion XS 1400 DC-DC battery charger
0 Reviews€ 499,00Oorspronkelijke prijs was: € 499,00.€ 439,00Huidige prijs is: € 439,00. - Deal!
Victron Orion-Tr Smart 12/24-10A insulated
0 Reviews€ 199,00Oorspronkelijke prijs was: € 199,00.€ 169,00Huidige prijs is: € 169,00. - Deal!
Victron Orion-Tr Smart 24/12-20A insulated
0 Reviews€ 209,00Oorspronkelijke prijs was: € 209,00.€ 169,00Huidige prijs is: € 169,00. - Deal!
Victron Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-18A insulated
0 Reviews€ 189,00Oorspronkelijke prijs was: € 189,00.€ 159,00Huidige prijs is: € 159,00. - Deal!
Victron Orion-Tr 24/12-15A (180W) non isolated
0 Reviews€ 59,00Oorspronkelijke prijs was: € 59,00.€ 44,95Huidige prijs is: € 44,95. - Deal!
Victron Orion-Tr Smart 24/12-30A (360W) insulated
0 Reviews€ 349,00Oorspronkelijke prijs was: € 349,00.€ 239,00Huidige prijs is: € 239,00.
What is the Victron Orion used for?
The Victron Orion is mainly used in systems where different voltage levels need to be converted or batteries need to be charged safely.
A common application is when switching to LiFePo4 batteries (lithium), which often demand a lot of current from the alternator. Without protection, this can lead to a burned-out alternator, something you definitely want to avoid. How quickly this happens varies, but that it happens is certain.
You can have a High Amp Dynamo Set from Electromaax purchase for most efficient charging of a large lithium bank or keep using your old alternator. In both cases, you will need an Orion. With a High Amp alternator, however, a much smaller one because this will only charge the starter battery. Often, a 9A is then sufficient.
The Orion helps prevent this problem and ensures reliable and safe power distribution.
Do you still have a standard alternator?
Then you can charge your starter battery with an Orion and safely charge your lithium battery via the Orion.
Do you have a high amp alternator?
Then charge your lithium battery directly and use a DC-DC charger like the Orion to maintain your starter battery.
In addition, the Orion is also often used to bow thruster batteries charging. For example, do you have a service bank and want to use it to charge other batteries? The Orion is the perfect solution.
Do you have a 24V system on board, but still want to power 12V equipment, such as lights or pumps? With a Victron Orion, you can easily convert from 24V to 12V. This way, you can easily use a 24V alternator to charge your 24V service bank and then use the Orion to convert the voltage to 12V.
The possibilities are endless!
Whatever your specific challenge, there is always a Victron Orion to solve your problem.
The Differences between the Victron Orions
There are different models of the Orion, but how do you know which one you need? We would like to help you make the right choice by explaining what the texts on the hood of the orion mean.
Smart function:
Always connected to your system
At Victron, "Smart" means that the product has Bluetooth functionality. This offers huge advantages. With the VictronConnect app, you can easily monitor the charger or inverter, change settings and perform updates. We always recommend choosing a Smart model; it makes your system more flexible and easier to operate.
Insulated or non-insulated:
What do you need?
A common question is: should I use an insulated or a non-insulated DC-DC inverter? Here is the answer.
Insulated DC-DC Orion:
Galvanic insulation: There is no direct electrical connection between the input and the output. This means that faults in one circuit do not affect the other.
Application: Mainly used in situations where safety and separation of circuits is important, such as on boats and vehicles.
Advantages: Provides protection against earth loops, voltage differences and noise. Ideal for marine applications and sensitive equipment.
Non-isolated DC-DC Orion:
No galvanic isolation: The input and output are directly connected.
Application: Suitable for systems where the source and destination share the same ground, such as in vehicles where the batteries share the same ground.
Advantages: Usually more compact, efficient and cheaper than the insulated version.
Application to boats:
Insulated inverter on steel or aluminium boats: These materials conduct electricity, which increases the risk of malfunctions. An insulated inverter prevents electrical problems and protects the system.
Non-insulated inverter on polyester boats: Polyester is non-conductive, reducing the risk of earth loops. Here, a non-insulated inverter is often sufficient, provided the motor and electrical system are properly installed.
Exception: If your boat has an insulated engine, in some cases you can also use a non-insulated inverter, regardless of the hull material.
Summary: Use an insulated inverter on steel or aluminium boats, and a non-insulated one on polyester boats, unless you have an insulated motor.
TR: TRiple Charge, for optimal battery performance
The "TR" in Victron Orion stands for "Triple" and refers to the three-phase charging process. This ensures that your batteries are safely, quickly and fully charged, resulting in minimal wear and tear and maximum service life. Here are the three phases of charging:
Bulk phase (Fast charging): The charger delivers maximum current to quickly charge the battery up to 80% of capacity.
Absorption phase: The voltage is kept constant while the current gradually decreases. In this phase, the final 20% is charged slowly and in a controlled manner.
Drip phase (Maintenance charge): The battery is kept at a low voltage to keep this 100% full without overcharging.
XS: eXtra Small Small, but powerful
The Orion XS is a compact version of the Orion series, but make no mistake! Despite its small size, the XS can deliver up to 50A at 12 volts, ideal for systems with two battery banks charged by an intelligent alternator. The Orion XS is fully adjustable and continues to operate at full capacity up to temperatures of 40°C. Its small size is perfect for installations where space is a challenge but performance should not be lacking.
What do the numbers on the Orion mean?
On the blue box of the Victron Orion, you will find a series of numbers, such as "24 | 12 - 30". What do these mean?
24: The input voltage is 24V, but can vary between 16V and 35V.
12: The output voltage is 12V, suitable for powering batteries or lower voltage devices.
30: This indicates that the Orion can deliver a maximum of 30A.
Why choose Smartmarine?
At Smartmarine, we understand that your onboard energy needs are unique. Not only do we offer a wide range of Victron products, we also provide expert, tailor-made advice. Our experts will be happy to help you choose the right configuration for your specific situation. Whether it's a small installation or an extensive system for harsh conditions, we make sure your system performs optimally and meets all your requirements.
We are known for our customer-oriented approach and excellent service. When you buy from us, you not only get the best product, but also support with installation and any questions after purchase.
Need help? We're here for you!
We hope this explanation has given you a better understanding of the versatility and benefits of the Victron Orion. Do you still have questions or would you like personal advice? Don't hesitate to contact us!
We will be happy to help you and make sure you make the right choice for your on-board situation. With us, you will always find the perfect solution for your energy system.