In this paper, a novel beta parameter three-input one-output fuzzy-logic based maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm is presented for the photovoltaic (PV) system application. The conventional fuzzy-logic controllers (FLCs) exhibit obvious limitations such as their dependence on the user's knowledge about the system and complicated rules. Furthermore, they show inherent dilemma between the rules number of FLC and the universality for various operating conditions, which is revealed and explained with details in this paper. Thus, a novel FLC is proposed by introducing a third input: an intermediate variable beta. It can simplify the fuzzy rule membership functions and cover wider operating conditions. The dependence on the user's knowledge about the system is reduced. The converging speed for transients is improved and oscillations around the MPPs are completely eliminated compared with conventional MPPT methods. Typical operation conditions such as varying solar irradiation and load resistance are tested for fair comparison of various algorithms. An experimental prototype was designed and main experimental results were presented to verify the advantages of the proposed algorithm. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.