Deep cycle batteries store and transmit consistent levels of electrical power with less wastage. These batteries are perfect for short and mid-range off-grid applications. They are generally more durable and user-friendly than regular batteries. Thanks to such offerings, the applications of these battery types are growing every day. They are used as supplementary products with solar panels to store renewable energy. But you can also use them for storing non-renewable energy obtained from conventional power sources.
Multiple types of deep cycle batteries are available to you that are differentiated with unique specs and features. We have created this buying guide to help you out in choosing the right deep cycle battery according to your energy needs. We have also reviewed some of the top-quality products that are currently available in the market. Let’s take a look.
Editor’s Picks
Following are three of the best deep cycle batteries in their categories:
Mighty Max ML35-12 is the best product for all types of users including beginners, intermediate, and pros. 35Ah is enough battery capacity to serve small, medium, and large-sized applications. What makes this product stand out, even more, is its high discharge rate requiring minimum maintenance. Also, it’s a highly durable SLA battery type that is popular for operating in intense conditions. Mighty Max offers a 1-year warranty to safeguard your investment even further.
Mighty Max ML35-12 5Ah model is the cheapest starter battery that you can purchase. It is a great value provider as it is an SLA-type battery that can operate in tough working conditions. It is easy to install and safe to operate. It is a spill-proof battery which means that you can mount it in any position. Also, it is durable enough to resist shocks and vibrations. You can purchase this product to power up small-sized electric devices without any compatibility issues.
Renogy 12V 100Ah Deep Cycle Battery provides the highest capacity and performance as compared to other products on this list. It is manufactured with durable AGM technology that makes it durable and effective for operations in extreme temperatures. This battery reduces the monthly self-discharge rate to below 3% at 25℃, which is significantly lower than its counterparts in the same category. However, it can only be installed in a specific position, so be careful with that.
How Do Deep Cycle Batteries Work?
If you’re fairly new to the renewable energy game – even if you’ve spent years working with all sorts of other batteries and energy arrays – you may well wonder why it’s so important to equip your solar array with a deep cycle battery, versus a regular battery. It’s important to us here at Semprius that you are as best informed as possible, so that you can make an educated purchase and come away with the most efficient and effective solar setup to suit your needs. That’s why we’re here to explain to you a little more about deep cycle batteries.
First, a quick note on nomenclature. A ‘cycle’ of a battery occurs when the battery is charged and then discharged. Thus, deep cycle batteries are named so for the fact that they’re designed to be discharged as fully as possible each time you use them, hence ‘deep cycle’. This may make a little more sense when we compare them to starting batteries – the kind found in vehicles and accompanying fossil-fuel motors. Starting batteries are designed to discharge a high amount of electricity over a short period of time, and should never be fully discharged, as this damages the battery and renders it useless for the performance of its core function (think of a car’s battery dying). On the other hand, a deep cycle battery is designed to discharge a smaller amount of energy, over a much longer period of time, and actually benefits from fully, deeply discharging itself.
As such, deep cycle batteries make perfect additions to solar arrays. They have a high enough capacity to contain all of the energy generated by solar panels during a day, and can then slowly, steadily discharge most (or even all) of that energy over a long period of time (i.e. to keep your home appliances, such as air conditioners and refrigerators, charged and powered consistently throughout the day and/or night). Deep cycle batteries also tend to preserve the quality and depth of charge better than other batteries, meaning that even after extended periods without use, they will have retained the majority of their charge.
Different deep cycle batteries are compatible with different appliances and solar arrays/panels, and as such it’s important that you match the requisite voltages of your panels and appliances to the battery.
Pros and Cons of Deep Cycle Batteries
Let’s take a look at the most important advantages and disadvantages associated with deep cycle batteries.
Pros:
- Low maintenance. Deep cycle batteries are the work horses of the battery industry. As such, they are designed to last, and to do their job with minimal fuss and minimal maintenance required, for many years.
- Affordable. Whilst there are some top quality deep cycle batteries which tend toward the expensive side, plenty of the batteries on this list are well-suited to even those of us on the tightest of budgets.
- Easy installation. You don’t need to be an expert in energy or electronics to install a deep cycle battery into your solar array. Just follow any instructions in the included manuals and you’ll have it up and running in no time at all.
- Minimal energy loss. Deep cycle batteries are designed to retain the electricity stored in them better than other, conventional batteries. As such, even after months of disuse you should still find the battery near full-charge.
Cons:
- Low capacity. Unfortunately, many of the deep cycle batteries on this list have relatively low capacities for storing electricity. Thus, you may need to shop for larger batteries, or buy a couple of these deep cycle batteries in order to compliment large solar arrays, such as those comprised of enough solar panels to power entire homes. (They are however well-suited to small-mid range arrays.)
The Best Deep Cycle Batteries Reviewed
Below are the top ten products in the deep cycle battery category. Let’s try to find out which one suits you the most.
#1 Mighty Max ML35-12 12V 35Ah Deep Cycle Battery
- Brand: Mighty Max
- Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) rechargeable maintenance free battery
- SLA / AGM spill proof battery has a characteristic of high discharge rate
- Wide operating temperatures
- Long service life and deep discharge recover
- Long lasting high performance
Mighty Max is a popular brand when it comes to manufacturing high-quality deep cycle batteries. They have a wide range of products in this category to fulfill the energy needs of a diverse customer base.
Their best product is the mid-range ML35-12 12V 35Ah Deep Cycle Battery. There are a few products that offer a low battery capacity while others offer just too much. This battery has just the right capacity for your outdoor adventure. You can power up small and mid-range electric devices with fast charging capabilities.
This product is a Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) battery. These types of batteries are known for less maintenance and high discharge rates, two of the finest qualities that you’d expect from deep cycle batteries. Also, these batteries have high endurance and, therefore, operate in tough environmental conditions. Thanks to its durability, Mighty Max offers a 30-day refund policy and a 1-year warranty with this product.
Pros:
- Low Maintenance
- Strong and Durable
- High Discharge Rate
- Decent Battery Capacity
- Affordable
- 30-day Refund Policy
- 1-Year Warranty
Cons:
- Not Suitable For Heavy Usage
#2 Mighty Max ML5-12 12V 5Ah Rechargeable SLA Battery
- Brand: Mighty Max
- Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) rechargeable maintenance free battery
- Long lasting high performance
- High discharge rate
- Wide operating temperatures long service life and deep discharge recover
The Mighty Max ML35-12 is a 5AH deep cycle battery that is manufactured to fulfill the energy needs of a wide segment of customers. It is a small-sized battery that is used for powering up small electrical devices. These include mobile phones, tablets, and flashlights. Mighty Max has also made it highly compatible.
This product is yet another SLA-type battery which means that it can perform in extreme temperatures without losing its discharge efficiency. This rechargeable battery can be easily installed in any position thanks to its spill-proof capability. Not only that, it is durable enough to resist shocks and vibrations. These qualities make it a great product for off-road purposes.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Small and Lightweight
- Highly Compatible
- Durable
- High Discharge Rate
Cons:
- Low Capacity
#3 Miady LFP16AH 12V 20AH LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Batteries
- Brand: Miady
- 2000 Charging Cycles
- Flat Discharge
- Robust ABS Casing & Soft Grip Texture
The third product on our list is a small yet effective deep cycle battery from Miady. It is a 20Ah battery that can be used to power up electric wheelchairs and kids’ riding toys such as small scooters and jeeps. This product is also great as an off-grid power source for your home security. Apart from these applications, you can also charge all sorts of small and mid-size devices with this battery.
This battery is a LifePO4 -type battery. It can provide 2000 cycles over its useful time. The cycles are significantly more than average AGM batteries. For durability purposes, this product has been protected with non-conductive ABS plastic that is one of the strongest materials that are used as a market standard. To safeguard your investment even further, Miady provides an 18-month replacement warranty with this product.
Pros:
- Energy Efficient
- Highly Compatible
- Strong and Durable
- Affordable
Cons:
- Low Capacity
#4 Renogy 12V 100AH AGM Deep Cycle Battery
- Brand: Renogy
- Maintenance Free
- Excellent Discharge Performance
- Long Shelf Life
- Wide Operation Temperature Range
Renogy has produced this 100Ah deep cycle battery for the highest energy performance. It has a usable capacity that dwarfs all other products on this list. It can be used to power up all sorts of electric appliances including laptops, TVs, fans, and lamps.
It has been manufactured with thick AGM separators and advanced valve-regulated technology. These features not only make it extremely durable but also enable it to perform at extremely low temperatures; as low as 0℃. Also, you’ll have to deal with less acid leakage and regular maintenance.
However, unlike other batteries, it doesn’t have a spill-proof capacity. You have to be careful while installing this battery as it can only be mounted only in a specific position.
Pros:
- High Capacity
- Highly Durable
- Energy efficient
- Less Maintenance
Cons:
- Expensive
#5 Mighty Max ML18-12 12V 18AH SLA AGM Deep Cycle Battery
- Brand: Mighty Max
- Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) rechargeable maintenance free battery
- UL Certified
- High discharge rate
- Wide operating temperatures
- Long service life and deep discharge recover
Mighty Max ML18-12 is yet another great product that has a capacity of 18Ah. It is designed for powering up small and mid-sized electric appliances. Sealed lead-acid batteries are known for their high discharge rates and the ability to perform in tough conditions. This SLA AGM battery is no exception either. You can install this product anywhere and in any position thanks to its spill-proof capability. Mighty Max provides a 30-day moneyback guarantee and a 1-year replacement warranty.
Pros:
- Energy Efficient
- Safe and Reliable
- Strong and Durable
- Easy Installation
- 30-days Refund Policy
- 1-Year Warranty
Cons:
- Not Suitable For Heavy Usage
#6 Interstate Batteries 12V 35Ah Deep Cycle Battery
- Brand: Interstate Batteries
- Interstate Batteries Deep-Cycle mobility product
- Rechargeable, Maintenance-free
- Professional-grade quality
- Long life for deep discharge usage
Interstate Batteries has manufactured a 35Ah deep cycle battery that has scored high ratings compared to some other products in this list. This is a mid-range product that is highly compatible with a lot of electrical devices. AGM and VRLA technologies have been integrated into this battery to make it strong, effective, and maintenance-free. It is a small and lightweight product that can be installed in any position due to its spill-proof capability. Interstate Batteries provides a 1-year warranty with this product along with quality customer services.
Pros:
- Energy Efficient
- Maintenance Free
- Easy Installation
- High Discharge Rate
- 1-year Warranty
Cons:
- Not Suitable For Heavy Usage
#7 Miady LifePO4 12V 16AH Deep Cycle Lithium Batteries
- Brand: Miady
- 2000 Charging Cycles
- Flat Discharge
- Robust ABS Casing & Soft Grip Texture
Miady 12V Deep Cycle Battery is a lithium-iron-phosphate battery. It can last for 2000 recharge cycles that are significantly more than typical lead-acid batteries. Miady has increased the durability of this product by protecting it with a highly robust ABS plastic. This enables this battery to resist shocks and vibrations, making it perfect for operation in tough conditions. This battery has a very flat discharge curve which means that it sustains consistent power to the very end until it is completely discharged. It is just the right battery for outdoor adventures thanks to its compact configuration and low weight. Lastly, this product is offered with an 18-month warranty.
Pros:
- High Charge Efficiency
- Flat Discharge Curve
- Strong and Durable
- 18-month Warranty
Cons:
- Requires Regular Maintenance
#8 Mighty Max Battery ML12-12 12V 12AH SLA AGM Deep Cycle Battery
- Brand: Mighty Max
- Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) rechargeable maintenance free battery
- UL Certified
- High discharge rate
- Wide operating temperatures
- Long service life and deep discharge recover
Mighty Max ML12-12 is yet another great product with a storage capacity of 12Ah. It can be used to power small and medium-sized electric devices. It is a small and lightweight SLA-type battery with spill-proof capability. You can install it without worrying about the correct position. Also, it is highly durable for operating in extreme temperatures. It can resist shocks and tense vibrations therefore you can use this battery on your off-road adventures. Like all other products from Mighty Max, this one is also offered with a 30-day moneyback guarantee and a 1-year replacement warranty.
Pros:
- Strong and Durable
- High Discharge Rate
- Easy Installation
- 30-day Money-Back Warranty
- 1-year Replacement Warranty
Cons:
- Low Storage Capacity
#9 Mighty Max ML35-12 12V GEL Cells Battery
- Brand: Mighty Max
- GEL rechargeable maintenance free battery
- Vibration Long lasting high performance in high and low temperatures
- Gel cell battery is charged
Mighty Max ML35-12 is yet another 35Ah capacity battery on this list. This one however is composed of GEL cells. This is a maintenance-free battery that saves you a lot of hassle.
It can be used to power up small and medium-sized devices ranging from mobile phones tablets to televisions and electric scooters. Mighty Max has ensured that this battery is highly compatible with a wide range of popular brands. You can install this product in any position and operate it in tough conditions.
Pros:
- Energy Efficient
- Highly Compatible
- Strong and Durable
- Easy Installation
Cons:
- Not Suitable for Heavy Usage
#10 ExpertPower 12V 20AH Lithium LiFePO4 Battery
- Brand: ExpertPower
- Sealed Lead Acid Battery
- Longer Service Life
- Efficient Power
- Impeccably Lightweight
- Complete Protection
The last product on our list is a Lithium LiFePO4 deep cycle battery from ExpertPower. It is a 20Ah battery made specifically for small applications. It is safe and reliable thanks to the integration of the Battery Management System (BMS) for its protection. This battery provides 2500 – 7000 cycles over a lifespan of 10 Years. It can resist shocks while operating in extremely harsh temperatures.
Pros:
- Strong and Durable
- Easy Installation
- Energy Efficient
Cons:
- Low Storage Capacity
Buyers Guide
As we have seen in the reviews section, deep cycle batteries are entirely unique in their features and specifications. Choosing the right option can be challenging and, therefore, in this section, we’ll discuss some key points that can help you out in this regard. Take a look.
Battery Capacity
The important feature of any battery is its storage capacity. Some batteries have a small storage capacity to power only small-sized devices while others can do so much more. In this article, we have witnessed battery capacities ranging from 5Ah to 100Ah. You have to identify your energy needs before you choose a battery.
Battery Type
There are multiple battery types that offer unique operational functions due to the difference in their chemical composition and other physical attributes. Some require more maintenance than others. Some have fast charging capability while others don’t. Some can only operate at moderate temperature conditions while others are much more durable. Therefore, choose accordingly.
Discharge Cycle
A discharge cycle is the process of energy utilization after a complete recharge. It also represents the expected useful life of the battery. You can expect high discharge rates from top-end products.
Price
Not all expensive products provide a better service than their economical counterparts. Prices can, however, give you a general impression of what the product has to offer. Identifying the price is the first step that must be followed by a detailed inspection.
Warranty
Almost all manufacturers of deep cycle batteries provide a minimum of a 1-year warranty. This is the standard market practice in this product category. However, you must confirm that the product you’re looking to purchase does come with a warranty.
Size and Weight
Size and weight are critical for portability. You should invest in a compact and lightweight battery if you are looking to carry it around with yourself. If this isn’t the case, then weight and size shouldn’t impact your purchase decision. Note that lithium-ion batteries weigh less than flooded batteries.
Charging Time
Some types of deep cycle batteries can charge quicker than others due to their chemical composition. You have to keep in mind that deep cycle batteries are generally slower than regular batteries and take more time to recharge.
Final Verdict
It is extremely difficult to find a product that offers everything mentioned in the buyers’ guide. Mighty Max has solved this issue and designed a product that has the right mix of performance, durability, user experience, and reliability.
The Mighty Max ML35-12 12V 35AH Deep Cycle Battery is an SLA-type battery that provides high discharge rates. It is an excellent choice if you are looking for a consistent level of voltage to power up your electric devices. Another great feature of this product is that it can perform at high levels in extreme temperatures. Also, it requires far less maintenance than some other products on our list. Mightily Max has truly built a safe and reliable product and, yet, they provide a 30-day money-back guarantee and 1-year replacement warranty in addition to quality customer services.
FAQs
Regular car batteries are not good for repeated charge and discharge cycles; rather they are used for providing a quick voltage boost to start a vehicle’s engine. Deep cycle batteries on the other hand provide the exact opposite service. These are built with dense active materials for providing a deeper discharge rate at an extended period than regular batteries.
The major difference between the two battery types is that a flooded lead-acid battery requires proper maintenance, unlike its counterpart. This is because a liquid electrolyte sulfuric acid is absent in a flooded battery which is present in a sealed battery.
Deep cycle batteries require a bit more maintenance than regular batteries. They emit an unhealthy hydrogen gas that is not good for the environment. Also, it is inadvisable to use them for small electric devices such as mobile phones and tablets. Lithium cobalt oxide batteries are used for this purpose.
It is not advisable to connect together different types of batteries because they are different in chemical properties and therefore provide unique energy performances. You may however connect two or more batteries if you have a solar charge controller. It acts as a battery combiner for charging relay and to monitor the flow of voltage.
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