8x 100watt panels vs 2x 400watt panels

I have seen many installations with the above setup, I would like to know it benefits before buying my panels.
What are the advantages of using many small wattage of panels against using few higher wattage panels of say 12volt ?
What are the advantages of using many small wattage of panels against using few higher wattage panels of say 12volt ?
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I got mine new for 25 cents a watt, which is why I went that way, but it is a lot of extra wiring (potential failure points), extra work and materials mounting them, etc.
Even at such a cheap price, I wouldn't do it again. The only good reasons to use smaller panels are if you physically can't lift the larger panels or have tight space requirements.
There can be some advantages. 400 watt panels will likely be very high voltage.
To use high voltage panels effectively, you will need a MPPT type charge controller.
You would need a combiner box for 8 panels to meet code. so there is some additional expense there, but they are likely panels designed to charge 12 volt battery bank with a less expensive PWM charge controller.
- Assorted other systems, pieces and to many panels in the closet to not do more projects.
Great point about the higher voltage.
...easy to get dizzy these days, going back and forth...
- Assorted other systems, pieces and to many panels in the closet to not do more projects.