Whether it is on-grid or off-grid, who doesn’t crave for interminable and long-lasting powers supply? When you go on camping for a few days with your boat or recreational vehicle that is out of the coverage of utility lines, you need something to provide an endless power supply.
Here comes the deep cycle battery to give you a predictable back up with its sustained energy storage. These batteries are specially designed to be discharged up to 80% of their capacity, though most of the manufacturer doesn’t recommend to do so. Moreover, the deep cycle battery is specially featured to store renewable energy, especially solar energy of solar panels. So all win and win situation.
Table could not be displayed.Our Top 10 Best Deep Cycle batteries
There are so many deep cycle batteries available with almost the same features. It is not an easy task to find out the best one. Here we have listed our top 10 favorite deep cycle batteries along with their unbiased reviews to help you end your quest. Let’s have a look.
![Best Deep Cycle Battery](https://www.autossquare.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Best-deep-cycle-battery.jpg)
1. Odyssey PC680 Battery
Assets
First, we have Odyssey PC680 Battery to start our picklist. If you are looking for a deep cycle battery that charges up very quickly, then this will seal the deal. It has a very high recharge efficiency as it charges up 100% in 4-6 hours.
The longer life cycle of the battery is the thing that is worth remarking. The battery life cycle is 70% longer than those as usual deep cycle batteries. It has a discharge depth of 80% with 400 cycles. This much power is the result of the rich recycling and surface area provided by the pure lead plate.
It is one of the best 12V deep cycle batteries available out there. So, it ensures to offer stable and high voltage with 18A current for a longer time.
I liked the fact that this deep cycle battery of Odyssey is designed to be rugged and to provide resistance against constant pounding. So, it is well protected against brunt shocks and all mechanical vibrations.
Another thing is, it is equipped to be non-hazardous as it is spill-free for the absorbed glass mate design. So, if the case is fractured, it will still prevent leakage of electrolyte and ensures to protect other batteries.
Also, this deep cycle battery is highly tolerant of temperature, corrosion-resistant for the brass terminals which are tin-plated. The mounting flexible design makes it stable.
Downsides
- It cannot hold the charge for a long time.
2. Optima Batteries 8016-103 D34M BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Marine Battery
Assets
Another best 12V deep cycle battery on our list is Optima 8016-103 D34M Deep Cycle Marine Battery. Not only this serves as the best marine deep cycle battery but also you can use it as a startup battery with strong cranking.
My attention was hooked by its spiral cell design. The series of spiral cells located in the center is composed of two 99.99% pure lead plates. This ensures your protection and a strong and clean power source. This makes this battery heavy-duty and durable.
As it has a high reserve capacity of 120 minutes, it can be your best friend on your boat or recreational vehicles with a heavy load. Also, it recharges almost 3 times more power in less time compared to conventional batteries.
It has a rating of 750 CCA which is another remarkable thing. This assures you of the optimal functioning of the battery even in harsh weather.
If we talk about construction, the case is made of polypropylene. The AGM construction protects the battery from spills by providing a seal. The battery is not much heavy as it weighs 43.5 pounds.
Another impressive thing is, it is almost 15 times more vibration-proof than other RV batteries.
Downsides
- Reserving capacity gets worse with time.
3. Mighty Max Battery ML35-1s2 – 12V 35AH U1 Deep Cycle AGM Solar Battery
Assets
One of the best solar deep cycle batteries is the Mighty Max Deep Cycle AGM Solar Battery. It is a sealed lead-acid battery. This is versatile as applicable not only in solar panels but also in wheelchairs, scooters, boats and so one.
The most remarkable fact is its AGM design which makes this battery spill-proof. It ensures protection of you and your other batteries as the electrolyte liquid is contained between fiberglass mates.
Mighty Max solar battery is a 12v deep cycle battery with a 35ampere hour capacity. There is a calcium-alloy grid to upgrade the performance by charging more power.
It weighs 23.5 pounds and has a dimension of 7.68 inches* 5.16 inches * 7.13 inches. This makes it compact and mountable on narrow spots. This compactness makes the battery installable on small boats.
Also, this battery is a pro to tolerate vibrations and shocks. It can operate in a wide range of temperatures so a good choice for all weather conditions. This temperature resistant feature makes it perfect for marine and RV vehicles.
Downsides
- Recharges pretty slowly and holds the charge for a short time.
- Only suitable for light works.
4. Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah Solar Wind AGM SLA DEEP Cycle VRLA Battery 12V
Assets
Next, we have Universal Power Group Deep Cycle Battery on our picklist. This is easily mountable and is versatile to use in solar panels, RV vehicles, golf carts, motorcycles, boats and so one.
This is equipped to give out 12 V and 100Ah. This refers to great storage capacity. You don’t have to worry about the self-discharge of the battery as it discharges less than 3% of its capacity every month when it remains unused.
The reliable AGM design of this universal battery makes it one of the best AGM deep cycle batteries available out there. This makes sure that the battery can prevent unwanted vibrations and shocks. Thus, it can be used along with other accessories safely.
The battery is well sealed to prevent leakage of harmful chemicals in case of the battery case is destroyed. So, it is well equipped to ensure yours and your property safety.
Another remarkable thing is, you can control the functioning of the battery using a valve. The body is plastic, so it is chemical resistant, acid-proof, and durable.
Also, the temperature resistant feature makes it applicable in any weather conditions. The weight of this battery is 63.93 pounds. The size is specified to be 12.17 * 6.61 * 9.16 inches.
Downsides
- The battery is a little heavy.
5. Odyssey PC925 Automotive and LTV Battery
Assets
Another mentionable battery of Odyssey is the Odyssey PC925 Automotive Battery. It is designed to provide a great recharging ratio. It has a 70% longer life cycle than other batteries.
The sturdy construction along with the sealed AGM design is the reason behind its long-lasting performance. This is because the design supports the battery to prevent spills and leak. Thus, it offers protection against vibration and shocks.
Another fact that is worth mentioning is, it has 80% discharging depth along with 400 cycles. This 12V and 30 A deep cycle battery is robust and gives out consistent power for a long time. The battery can recover rapidly.
Like other batteries of Odyssey, this battery has a faster recharging capacity. It is capable to charge up full in 4-6 hours. It has a power reserve capacity of 52 minutes. Also, the battery is capable to operate even at an extreme temperature that makes it perfect for marine applications.
It weighs around 26 pounds. The CCA rating of 330 of this deep cycle battery helps you to easily start your RV vehicles or boats. Also, the battery is greatly flexible to mount anywhere and the mounting process is not that complex.
Downsides
- The size is too big and may not fit.
- It cannot hold the charge for long.
6. Optima Batteries 8052-161 D31M BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Battery
Assets
Next, we have another reliable battery Optima 8052-161 D31M B Deep Cycle Battery manufactured by Optima. This is also a dual-purpose battery as you can use it as a deep cycle battery also as a starting battery.
Like the other batteries of optima mentioned above, it is based on the Spiral Cell technology too. This is composed of two lead plates one of which is positive another is negative.
I sorted out this battery for its better reserve capacity. It has a reserve capacity of 155 minutes that makes sure to give consistent performance. These make this battery the best RV deep cycle battery.
Another impressive fact about this 12V battery is, it has a starting power of 900 CCA. This is the reason behind the battery serving dual-purpose with powerful functioning.
You can easily install this on your RV vehicles or boats. The exterior is manufactured with polypropylene. This makes this version of optima battery construction-wise rugged and robust.
Also, the vibration-proof, temperature resistant, and spill-proof design is the reason for the versatility of the battery.
Downsides
- It may freeze and crack in extreme cold.
- It lacks compactness for its 59.8 pounds weight.
900cca
7. Vmaxtanks VMAXSLR125 AGM 12V 125Ah SLA Rechargeable Deep Cycle Battery for Use with Pv Solar Panels
Assets
Vmaxtanks VMAXSLR125 Deep Cycle Battery is a pretty tough competitor for all other batteries available in the market. It is unique compared to others for its 99% recombination design. This ensures your maximum safety as there are no harmful fumes and gases.
This 12 V deep cycle battery has a reserve capacity of 125 Amperes per hour. This enables the battery to supply high power which makes it heavy duty.
This deep cycle battery is featured to give 300 cycles with 100% discharge and about 3500 cycles for 10% discharge depth. Also, it has a low self-discharge rate of about 2% per month at a normal temperature.
As far as the matter of construction is concerned, the plates are made of military-grade with tin alloy grids. This can serve you with superior performance about 8 to 10 years long easily even in easy mode.
The leak-proof sealed AGM construction is provided for the safe operation. The harmful accumulation of gas is prevented by a regulator valve.
This battery is not only temperature resistant but also vibration proof. The dimension is 6.8 x 12.9 x 8.7 inches and it weighs 75 pounds.
Downsides
- The power supply is not consistent.
8. Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
Assets
We have Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery next on our list. It is made based on lithium-ion technology and is safer from the lead-acid batteries by having protection against ground faults.
It is unique for its inbuilt battery management system which is like the brain. This prevents temperature volatility or ground faults for which battery failure occurs. It also regulates the power supply and controls shutoffs to protect the cells from harmful conditions.
Another interesting thing is the batteries’ reserve capacity of 100 AH and 12 V output. This is more than enough to give out high power. You can apply it with 12, 24, 36, or even 48V systems.
I would like to mention that this battery is equipped with a wide range of mounting capabilities. You can mount it anywhere and thus is perfect for marine, campers, RV, golf cart, and many other applications.
The weight of the battle born battery is 29pounds which is about one-third of the weight of lead-acid batteries. This lightweight and 12.8 x 6.9 x 9 inches dimension is also another reason for its versatility.
Also, this battle born battery is much eco-friendly as it is constructed with non-toxic, renewable, and safe energy and there is no acid inside.
Downsides
- Voltage oscillates after using a few years.
9. WindyNation 100 amp-Hour 100AH 12V 12 Volt AGM Deep Cycle
Assets
WindyNation AGM Deep Cycle battery is perfect for all types of off-grid systems like solar panels, UPS, marine, or RVs. This battery requires the least maintenance so you don’t need to be concerned.
This is designed based on AGM technology with heavy-duty plates that are designed for repetitive and deep discharge. Stay worry-free while using this deep cycle AGM battery. It is designed with a complete seal to get rid of dangerous leaks of harmful electrolytes and fumes.
It has a reserve capacity of 100AH at 10 H rating and 110AH at 20 h rating. This 12v deep cycle battery has a minimal amount of self-discharge rate.
The low discharge rate is the result of 99.99% pure lead. This also ensures maximum power storage. Even in float mode, it will last long for 10 to 12 years at room temperature.
The housing is made of ABS plastic. So, it will last long without any cracks. The size of this lead-acid battery is 13 x 6.8 x 8.7 inches and it weighs 66 pounds.
Downsides
- It doesn’t charge up full.
- Can’t withstand harsh weather conditions.
10. Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery 12 Volt 100Ah for RV, Solar Marine, And Off-grid Applications
Assets
Finally, we have Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery to draw an end line to our picklist. This is highly reliable for enthusiasts to meet their stand-by or continuous power supply needs.
It is constructed with absorbent glass mat separator plates. This results in extreme protection from the acid or harmful gas leakage. It contains an advanced valve to regulate the battery. This enables you to use this battery with the least maintenance.
The two great features, one is the high discharge current and the other one is the low internal resistance is the result of the special construction. It is constructed with proprietary quinary alloy plates and special grid plates. So, you can extract 10 times of discharge than the rated capacity.
The improved electrolyte formula is another worth mentioning quality of this deep cycle battery. This offers a stable capacity and excellent operation even if in temperatures below 0℃. So, you can use this in a wide range of temperature conditions even in extreme cold.
The capacity of this 12V battery is 100 ampere-hour at 10h rate. It has a minimal self-discharge of about 3% per month at room temperature. It is nearly 5 times lower than the flooded counterparts.
Downsides
- It doesn’t charge up full and holds the charge long.
- Often overheats so can swell a bit.
How to Find out the best deep cycle battery?
You certainly cannot judge a deep cycle battery with its outlook. In this section, we have piled up and discussed the main facts to examine before buying a deep cycle battery. Hopefully, this will help you to get satisfaction from your purchase.
![Best Deep Cycle Battery Buying Guide](https://www.autossquare.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Best-deep-cycle-battery-Buying-Guide.jpg)
Depth of Discharge and Life Cycles
Depth of discharge is defined as the amount of discharged power before it requires recharging and normally expressed in percentage. The life cycle refers to how long the battery will serve.
A higher value of discharge depth means it will not require recharging frequently. But it has an inverse relation with the discharge cycles in a lead-acid battery. If your battery gives deeper cycles it will provide lesser total cycles.
Most of the RV deep cycle battery has a discharge depth of 80% with 400 total cycles. Some have 300 cycles with 100% discharge and about 3500 cycles for 10% discharge depth.
Ampere-hour Rating
This indicates the amount of current delivery over a specified time. It is a rule of thumb to search for battery with a higher Ah rating which means more power storage that will serve you long.
The deep cycle battery that you are going to purchase must have the capacity to provide enough power you need to operate your intended system. You have to assure the battery will serve you without the power falling below 50%.
Most of the deep cycle batteries have 100-150 Ah rating. This works with a 20*Ah formula. A 150Ah battery will give 7.5 A per hour. But it is good to estimate more than the Ah rating as no battery discharges the full ampere cycle.
Reserve Capacity
This is defined by the time the battery requires to discharge 10.5V and 25 Amps. The higher value of reserve capacity means serving for a longer period. Generally, AGM deep cycle batteries have a reserve capacity of 52-155 minutes.
Voltage
The voltage rating will define the electromotive power supplied by the battery. The majority of the deep cycle battery has a 12V voltage. But there are still 6V, 18V, or 24V deep cycle batteries available out there. 6V batteries are often used in series to get 12V DC.
You have to make sure the vehicle in which you are going to use the battery supports the voltage rating of the battery. You can use a power inverter if you need AC power.
Construction and Design
The housing of the battery should be made of chemical-resistant material like ABS plastic or polypropylene. This makes the batteries durable and long-lasting by preventing fading and cracking.
Pure lead plates of the spiral cell offer rich recycling and surface area and thus provides great power. Thicker plates help to withstand deeper cycles. In some batteries, the plates are made of military-grade with tin alloy grids. These help to ensure the safety of other accessories from the harmful liquid.
Some deep cycle batteries have central management or valves to regulate power supply. Also, you should look for the batteries that are designed to be flexible to be mounted anywhere and requires no maintenance.
CCA rating
The cold-cranking amps indicate that how much cold your battery can withstand. This defines the amperage provided to maintain 7.2V at 0 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 seconds.
Most of the marine deep cycle batteries have a CCA rating of 330-900. For freezing temperatures, we recommend at least 500 CCA. But for the tropical environment, CCA rating is not required to be that high. So, make sure your battery can withstand all weather conditions.
Charging Time
Everyone wants their deep cycle battery to charge up 100% in no time. This is because if a battery takes a whole day to charge up, it will fail to provide power supply when required especially in ATV, RV, or marine applications.
The majority of deep cycle batteries takes 4-6 hours to charge up 100%. Normally a lithium-ion battery has charging time less than a lead-acid battery as it requires multiple sessions to recharge.
Charging Method
First, you have to think about the resources available for you to charge the battery. It can be from a solar panel, generator, or shore power. The deep cycle battery must support the charging method. You can also use a smart charger.
Size and Weight
If you intend to use the deep cycle battery on a boat, golf cart, or recreational vehicles where other electronic equipment is required, you need a battery that is lighter and compact. You have to ensure that the battery fits well in the allotted space.
The weight of deep cycle batteries ranges from 23.5 to 75 pounds. Though the size and weight refer to the power holding capacity, lithium-ion batteries have higher energy efficiency despite they are smaller and lighter.
Vibration and Shock Resistance
In the case of boats, trucks, RVs the deep cycle batteries have to face continuous vibrations. So, your marine deep cycle battery should be high vibration and shock-resistant, or else the battery case will crack often and will require repairs frequently.
Spill-free
Now, most of the deep cycle batteries are featured with AGM (Absorbed glass mate) design that prevents spills by offering seal. This feature makes the battery non-hazardous as the harmful electrolyte is contained in absorbent fiberglass mate and ensures strong safety.
Self-discharge Rate
If you are intending to get a deep cycle battery that you are not going to use frequently, you have to anticipate the lower self-discharge rate. The batteries discharge a small amount of power even while not in use which is self-discharge. Maximum deep cycle batteries have 2-3% self-discharge per month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does a deep cycle battery last?
Ans: the standard rating period is about 20 hours.
Q: Can you charge a deep cycle battery using a car alternator?
Ans: Yes, it can charge a deep cycle battery at a higher rate as it is rotating faster.
Q: Should you store deep cycle batteries charged or discharged?
Ans: It should be charged at least at 40% while storing.
Q: What amp should you charge your deep cycle battery?
Ans: It is better to charge a higher charge rate like 6-10 amps or higher.
Wrap Up
While a starter battery is designed to kickstart a car with short bursts, deep cycle batteries are designed to provide continuous power supply for longer timespan to operate the RVs, ships, golf carts, and other off-grid vehicles.
The Optima deep cycle batteries are best for their high CCA rating and spiral cell technology. If you want greater life cycles and willing to compromise a little reserve capacity then the deep cycle batteries of Odyssey will be prominent for you.
Moreover, You can choose the Renogy deep cycle battery for itsimproved electrolyte formula and regulator valve. After all, having the best deep cycle battery will be a valuable thing especially when you are far from an electrical energy source.
Also read – Optima car battery review and Interstate car battery review
Leave a Reply