Ghost, Mighty Mule or TOPENS: compare the missing pieces.

Start with a common shopping task

For a single swing gate, our launch set contains four packages: Ghost Controls TSS1XP, Mighty Mule MM371W, Mighty Mule MM571W and TOPENS A5S. They do not arrive with the same pieces. A lower opener price can leave a larger list of separate purchases, while a bigger box can still omit the battery you need.

The useful first comparison is therefore a parts comparison. We separate the manufacturer default package from the seller’s offer and label each item included, buy separately, conditional, optional or still unknown. Nothing unknown becomes a zero-dollar item, and we do not calculate an installed total without verified prices for the actual required parts and labor.

TSS1XP: panel included, battery extra

The TSS1XP default package includes one opener arm, a 10W solar panel, a remote and pull-to-open mounting hardware. It requires a separately purchased battery. Ghost provides battery options, but the exact battery, enclosure and connections still need to match the installation and intended accessories.

An outward-opening gate changes the hardware list. The base pull-to-open hardware does not remove the need for the appropriate push-to-open bracket set. Round posts can also call for different adapters. Treat those as condition-dependent purchases, and check the post geometry before assuming a bracket purchase solves every mounting problem.

MM371W and MM571W: check the exact model

Both Mighty Mule base packages need a solar panel purchased separately. Their battery starting points differ. The MM371W current model page excludes the battery; the MM571W current page includes an FM150 12V battery and enclosure. This is why “Mighty Mule kit” is too broad a description for a useful comparison.

The MM371W battery answer conflicts with broader manufacturer collection copy. The MM571W current package also differs from older battery descriptions. Our working record follows the exact current product page, keeps the conflict visible and asks you to verify the seller bundle. Neither model should receive a generic “battery included” badge at brand level.

The MM571W manual identifies additional push-to-open hardware for an outward-opening installation. A solar panel plus that bracket can still be missing even when the battery is included. Keep accessory connectivity and site-specific safety equipment separate from the default kit inventory.

A5S: more solar and bracket hardware, a different battery task

TOPENS A5S includes two 10W panels, its TCS3 controller, TS24-U charging adapter, two remotes and push/pull mounting brackets. The solar-only setup still requires a separately purchased 24V battery system; the product page specifies a minimum 12Ah capacity. Included brackets do not establish that your post spacing and opening geometry fit.

The charging adapter is not permission to skip that battery. TOPENS distinguishes battery charging from direct-power alternatives in its comparison guidance. Verify the selected power architecture instead of combining pieces from multiple configurations into one implied complete kit.

Compare the offer only after defining the extras

Select two single-gate models in our comparison and turn on the outward-opening option if it applies. The page keeps the battery, panel and bracket differences together, then produces a printable checklist. Take that list to the current seller offer and verify every included item against the exact bundle.

There is no unconditional winner across these packages. A panel-included kit may simplify one list; a battery-included package may simplify another. Your gate construction, dimensions, geometry, sunlight and safety requirements still need a separate assessment. We researched documents and have not installed or tested these products.