Optima has held its brand value for 40 years straight, power products and batteries are their strong point. Their batteries are proven to survive the harshest of weather due to a superior build. Their AGM batteries have been holding the throne for a while now.
When it comes to Optima we do take a lot for granted. But there’s still a buzzing dilemma that demands to settle. YellowTop, BlueTop, and RedTop are the most popular and high-end lines of batteries that Optima manufactures. So, let’s get to the bottom of it with our Optima Car battery Reviews.
Top 5 Optima Car Battery Review for You
As optima batteries come in different sizes, voltages, and performances, you need to pick wisely whenever you want to buy a battery. You have to consider many options and choose the right one for you. To help you, below we have highlighted the strengths and downfalls of some of the finest optima batteries both in quality and functionality.
1. Optima 8171-767 YellowTop Prius Battery
Strengths
Optima 8171-767 Prius Battery is hugely admired for its dual-purpose compact battery which is sturdy and durable. Among other optima batteries, it is hard to beat the yellow top in both quality and functionality. If you are looking for something not too highly specialized yet very fitting for modern and filled with the latest featured vehicles then you can’t miss it.
This battery offers trickle charging which is perfect for cars that you don’t drive regularly. You don’t need to recharge it often which lowers the operational costs. But on the other side of the river, heavy discharging on a regular basis would not affect it either. Thanks to deep cycle power charging for that.
Not to mention, its compact and lightweight dimension makes it suitable for fitting inside of your car’s hybrids and EVs.
Its sturdy and durable outer cover can give enough protection against extreme weather conditions. Because of it, it offers premium quality performance for a long time. This battery is leak-proof even in extreme vibrations or movement. Installation is very easy and less time-consuming.
Shortcomings
- This battery cannot hold the charge and the voltage drops continuously.
- It is not suitable for cold weather.
2. Optima 8004-003 34/78 RedTop Battery
Strengths
Optima Redtop Battery is an ultra-reliable battery with some commendable specs to sweeten the deal. If you live in extremely cold weather conditions, then this battery might be very flitting for you, unlike the yellowtop. To sweeten the deal, this is highly vibrant resistant.
With this durable battery, you won’t have any problem starting your car with a high-powered burst of ignition in no time. This provides high power cracking ability which is far more superior to other optima batteries. Also its 100-minute reserve capacity, you can power the battery anywhere and anytime.
On top of all, this remarkable battery can generate 12 volts of high power which are about the size of any engine. But not too bulky for your liking and you can lift or move it without any hassle. Not to mention, this battery is multidirectional and spill-proof.
Shortcomings
- This Optima Redtop battery has an average lifespan of only 1-2 years.
- As you know it can create 12v of high voltage, this high voltage can be dangerous and if it is not handled well.
- The positive and negative ports of it are far away from each other which can be troublesome while working.
3. Optima 8016-103 D34M BlueTop Battery
Strengths
Another remarkable addition to this list is Optima Batteries 8016-103 D34M BlueTop Battery. This dual-purpose marine battery is impressive in both starting and deep cycle batteries for RVs, boats or motor homes. Because of its spiral cell design and uninterrupted lead plates, it can withstand the harshest weather condition.
The outer body is made of sturdy plastic which ensures long shelf life and durability. Not to mention, it is completely waterproof which makes it suitable for boat or reserved vehicles.
This unbreakable battery will less likely spill or give you acid burns. Other than that, it has more reserve capacity than other batteries we talked about so far.
What’s more, compared to other batteries it can generate three times more recharges and fifteen times more vibrant resistant. You also get a 24 hours warranty with it. At the same time, a safe and secure constant power supply and low maintenance make it hard to miss.
Shortcomings
- The Optima 8016-103 D34M BlueTop Battery is a bit more expensive than anyone’s liking.
- Also, it is not suitable for ordinary vehicles or cold weather.
- It is prone to damage if you accidentally drop it.
- Beyond these, you need some technical skills to properly handle the battery which makes it not suitable for anyone.
4. Optima 8002-002 34 RedTop Battery
Strengths
If you are looking for a battery to use in cold weather, then Optima 8002-002 34 RedTop Battery can deliver top-tier performance. With unique superCell technology, this provides a safe and secure power source.
Most amazingly it requires maintenance next to nothing. Beyond that, it has a long shelf life which is three times longer than other batteries.
Due to its 12v of high power transmission, this battery is highly suitable for vehicles that need high power like hot rods and off-roaders. 100 minutes of reserve capacity not only delivers constant conduction but also available anywhere, anytime. Like Optima Batteries 8016-103 BlueTop Battery, it is also fifteen times vibration resistant.
What’s more amazing, its strong starting power assures reliability and endurance. This battery is also multidirectional or you can mount it at any position or direction.
Also recharging time is quick and its high power cracking ability assists you to withstand extreme weather conditions with maximum security. Lastly, it can fit in most vehicles easily.
Shortcomings
- Optima 8002-002 34 RedTop battery is quite heavy and relatively pricey than other batteries in this list.
- Some users complain that this battery lasts only 1-2 years.
- At the same time, it has a small bolt alignment issue.
5. Optima 8003-151 34R RedTop Starting Battery
Strengths
Optima 8003-151 34R RedTop Starting Battery is another powerhouse battery with marvelous cracking ability. No matter how harsh the weather condition is, you will be able to crank up your car engine in no time.
Nevertheless, it comes in a well built and indestructible case which saves it from unnecessary movement, shocks, and vibrations.
A prime advantage of this battery is, it is highly suitable for off-road use. With its reserve capacity, you can power small vehicles up to 100 minutes at any conditions and whenever you need it.
In terms of quality, it’s a very versatile leakage free and charges quicker than an average battery. On top of all, with high internal resistance, this battery can give you constant service for a long time.
Shortcomings
- It cannot power large and heavy-duty vehicles.
- If you don’t use it often, it can lose power capacity after one year.
- Even with a warranty, it is roughly usable for up to 2 and a half years.
- Not to mention, installation requires little work before use.
FAQ
Q: How can you maintain your optima battery?
Ans: Normally an optima battery can usually sit for eight to twelve months depending on storage temperature and condition of charge at the time you bought it. For safety, you should keep it in a cool and dry location and check battery voltage every six months to see if the voltage drops from 12.4 volts.
Q: Do you need to vent your optima battery?
Ans: You need to vent if your battery is mounted inside the passenger compartment. However, most optima batteries have ports to connect the vent hose.
Q: Do you need a special charger to power the battery?
Ans: Generally, AGM batteries like optima have built-in settings to charge.
Conclusion
Although all these optima batteries look the same, it does not power a car the same way. I assume, our Optima car battery review has so far helped you enough to choose your suitable one. However, if you are still in confusion, you can still from our personal favorites among others.
Optima 8004-003 34/78 RedTop Battery is hard to miss if you are looking for a suitable battery to power off-road heavy-duty vehicles in cold weather. On the other hand, Optima 8171-767 YellowTop Prius Battery is a dual purpose battery with deep cycling ability. It delivers optimum power for any high-performance car.
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