Best AGM Battery: Capacity, Deep Cycle Power, Reserve Capacity, Voltage, CCA | Trusted Brands

In the early 1970’s multiple investigations in the field of efficient and safe battery technologies led to development of an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) system. AGM batteries contain acid in the ultra-thin glass mats unlike the conventional flooded lead acid batteries. Nowadays, AGM technology is widely used for modern cars and all-terrain vehicles due to the design peculiarities of such batteries. Let’s have a closer view of advanced AGM products and the best options available on the current market.

What is the best AGM battery? The high-performance deep cycle AGM battery should be suitable for the majority of modern types of vehicles, marine motors and RVs. Due to its innovative Absorbent Mat Technology it can store an unmatched amount of energy to power various electric devices during extended periods of time. Thanks to the minimum self-discharge rate it should be a perfect solution for all-season applications. More than that, such battery is considered to be leak- and maintenance-free which makes it the best user-friendly option among other modern battery technologies.

Trusted Brands of AGM Leisure Batteries

To make sure you buy a reliable AGM battery, opt for a trusted brand. In Europe, it is Varta, a German company making batteries for both industrial and consumer markets worldwide. The enterprise was established late in the 19th century to manufacture portable lead accumulators. Since then, Varta batteries have been the choice of professionals. It was a battery made by Varta that NASA specialists installed in Neil Armstrong’s camera for his mission to the Moon. Today, Varta makes micro-batteries for the Apple Airpods and has a 50% market share for premium headphone batteries.

You may go for the Varta 580901080D852 Silver Dynamic AGM Car Batteries that are able to power the most demanding vehicles. When compared to batteries from other brands, this unit has three times more endurance and is ideal for systems that require the battery to be quickly recharged. The Varta Professional AGM 595901085D852 G14 Car Battery Pack has a greater capacity of 95Ah and boasts a CCA of 850A. If you want a maintenance-free AGM battery, choose the E39 Varta Start-Stop Plus 096 AGM Car Battery, which is spill- and leakproof.

As for American brands, we recommend Exide Technologies, a multinational company producing lead-acid batteries. Based in Georgia, U.S., Exide has a rich 133-year history and owns manufacturing and recycling facilities. The company uses AGM, gel, enhanced flooded battery, and other technologies. One of the best sellers is the Exide 096 AGM Car Battery with a capacity of 70Ah and 760 CCA. There is a higher-capacity option from this brand — the Exide EK800 AGM Car Battery that features an 80Ah capacity and 800 CCA.

What is AGM technology? | Advantages over SLA batteries

AGM batteries, together with gel cell batteries, are the modern types of valve regulated lead acid (VRLA) batteries which are also named as sealed lead acid (SLA) batteries.

AGM and gel batteries are similar in design developed to provide a sufficient sealing of housing with internal lead plates submerged in electrolyte material of higher density. Unlike gel batteries with its gelly-type electrolyte, AGM batteries feature an ultra-thin glass fiber in-between the plates saturated with liquid electrolyte. Due to absence of flooded electrolyte in AGM batteries and their high-tightness characteristics, the risk of leakages is minimized. Thus, such batteries can be used at a certain slant, and they are safe in case of an occasional tip over. Besides, such batteries are suitable for almost any type of vehicle.

• AGM self-discharge rate is considerably lower (1-3% per month) in comparison with conventional flooded lead-acid batteries. That is, they can be stored for a year without additional recharging before its further use.

• AGM batteries feature deep cycle capabilities. That is, they can be discharged down to 50% without affecting the installed capacity. Besides, they are less sensitive to temperature fluctuations with an ability to work within -40°C to +60°C. And again, it relates to the fact that there is no free liquid acid inside which could be frozen and expanded.

• AGM batteries are maintenance-free except minor cleanup from dust or dirt which can be gradually accumulated with the time. With a rugged and sealed design AGM batteries are highly resistant to vibrations and impact loads.

More than that, AGM batteries come with lower inner resistance than the traditional models. Thanks to this feature they can generate higher current in a shorter period of time, which is especially important during cold cranking.

Fields of application of AGM batteries

AGM batteries are capable of generating a high starting current rate and a quick charge recovery. Besides, these batteries are widely used in high-class vehicles to power big energy consuming accessories like heating and audio systems.

For instance, the Varta is designated for heavy-duty vehicles and capable of supporting an entire range of high-demanding on-board electronics.

The development of modern battery technologies has contributed to dissemination of professional-grade solutions to residential fields of application. The market of a backup power supply is not exclusion. In particular, maintenance-free high capacity AGM batteries can be applied as follows:

• UPS (uninterrupted power supply) devices, for domestic and commercial applications, including deep cycle usage. 

• Marine motors, RV, off-grid applications and fish finders. 

• Solar energy storing. The kit of DEEP CYCLE AGM BATTERY & MONOCRYSTALLINE SOLAR PANEL would be an outstanding combination for such purposes.

• Auto and motorcycle racing companies stand for AGM products due to their ability to withstand higher vibrations and higher impact loads in comparison with the conventional lead acid models. 

Features to be considered when looking for AGM Leisure battery | Buyers’ Guide

Capacity. It is one of the main parameters which should be obligatory considered when choosing an AGM battery. It is a volume of electricity stored by the battery and the amount of time it is capable to power your vehicle and other energy consumers. Capacity of AGM products are usually measured in Ah. It is preferable that the amount of power left after starting would be sufficiently high, as this might guarantee a successful restarting in case of failure. And be advised that, high capacity batteries take more time for recharging. 

Reserve capacity. It is another crucial issue you should think through before purchasing an AGM battery. Reserve capacity shows how much time (minutes) left till full battery depletion at an average ambient temperature. AGM batteries demonstrate quite high reserve capacity in comparison with conventional flooded lead acid options. Thus, AGM products have in average 100 minutes of reserve capacity and even more.

Voltage. This parameter helps to monitor and determine battery charge. By applying special measuring devices you can easily get to know a state of charge, thus increasing a useful lifetime without affecting battery capacity. A conventional ideal voltage level should be always close to 12,8V. However, don’t forget that this value will be lower with outside temperature reduction, and vice versa.

Cold Cranking Amps. This definition means the maximum current transferred by a battery during several seconds for engine starting. If a battery doesn’t come with appropriate CCA for a certain state or a region with specific weather conditions, there could be mishaps with its smooth performance in winter. 800 CCA and higher would be adequate values for those who live in colder areas. 

Overall dimensions. Additionally, you should pay attention to the size and weight of an AGM battery. Despite the fact that there is no direct relation between battery size and its properties, it just could happen that the battery will not fit its mounting place.

Weight. You might need to know the weight of a battery in case you are going to transfer it from its working stationary place to another. For instance, if you plan to use it as a UPC source, or as solar energy storing battery, then its portability would be highly useful. Besides, knowing the weight of a battery, you can figure out which tools and attachments will be required to carry it safely.

How to charge AGM batteries?

Be advised that in order to charge such batteries you will need special devices designed for dealing with AGM batteries only, or universal chargers with an additional option which makes them compatible with AGM systems. It would be an ideal situation if you purchase a battery together with the right charger. Otherwise, using an improper device you might overcharge your battery, which is highly sensitive to excess voltages. Thus, if you want to purchase a universal device which could be used as AGM battery charger and portable power station for other electronics or appliances, check its compatibility beforehand.

For instance, the NOCO GENIUS2X4 is a universal helper, indeed. It can be used as a jump-starter for 12V AGM, GEL and WET batteries. Besides, it has an alternator check function, and it is equipped with an auto-stop 120 PSI air compressor. More than that, it can simultaneously support two sensitive electronic devices by means of its USB outlets provided.

Best-Selling AGM Leisure Batteries in the UK | Comparison Table

AGM Batteries | Reviews

RENOGY DEEP CYCLE AGM BATTERY 12 VOLT 100AH FOR RV, SOLAR MARINE AND OFF-GRID APPLICATIONS

RNG Group Inc. was founded in 2010 as a small technological unit at Louisiana State University. Nowadays, it is an international group which supplies renewable and sustainable power sources including solar and electric power batteries, panels and accessories to them.

This 12V general purpose deep cycle battery can be used as a reliable energy backup. It can grant more power by means of connection of several batteries in series or a parallel bank with specific Renogy cables.

The capacity of this battery is 100Ah. The self-discharge rate is lower than 3% at 77℉ which is 5x lower in comparison with traditional flooded lead acid batteries. Thanks to AGM technology the internal resistance is significantly low which contributes to a high performance of a battery. A stable operation of this model is guaranteed within a wide range of temperatures.

Features

• Battery capacity (Ah): 100
• CCA (min): 1800
• Weight (lbs): 30.9
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 13.1 x 6.9 x 8.6

This AGM battery comes in sturdy design to be used for multiple off-grid applications providing excellent performance at varying ambient temperatures.

RENOGY DEEP CYCLE AGM BATTERY 12 VOLT 100AH FOR RV, SOLAR MARINE AND OFF-GRID APPLICATIONS & 100 WATT 12 VOLT MONOCRYSTALLINE SOLAR PANEL

Also, the above-mentioned advanced AGM battery from Renogy is offered together with a 12V monocrystalline solar panel from the same manufacturer in one kit.

The panel comes in an innovative multi-layer anti-corrosion design which prevents hot spots on its surface and ensures high efficiency for a long period of time. Besides, it is equipped with by-pass diodes which minimize power drop even in under low-light conditions. Also, its rugged design contributes to an increased load resistance (up to 5400 Pa) under high severe ambient conditions like high winds or heavy snows.

The panel is ready for installation right after its receipt. It has pre-drilled holes for a quick mounting and commissioning procedures.

Features

• Power output (W): 100
• Weight (lbs): 16.5
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 42.2 X 19.6 X 1.3

This AGM battery/solar panel set gives you plenty of opportunities to feel confident whenever and wherever power is needed.

OPTIMA BATTERIES DH6 YELLOWTOP DUAL PURPOSE SEALED AGM BATTERY

Optima Batteries, Inc. was established in 1995 in the U.S. Nowadays, the company belongs to Johnson Controls, the leading manufacturer of battery technologies in the automotive industry worldwide. The Optima produces a range of multi-color batteries with SpiralCell Technology designed for various applications.

This yellow top 12V battery is suitable for heavy-duty vehicles with power hungry electronics and audio systems. This 72Ah model is capable of generating up to 800 CCA for an optimal starting supreme starting. Besides, it comes with an ultimate deep-cycle power to withstand more than 300 discharging/recharging without compromising its full capacity. It features 3x longer runtime in comparison with flooded lead acid counterparts. And it can generate continuously 25 Amp with its 140 minutes reserve capacity to be on the safe-side in any unpredictable power-off situation.

Features

• Battery capacity (Ah): 72
• CCA (min): 800
• Weight (lbs): 43.5
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 16 x 11.5 x 10.7

You can rely on this Optima yellow-top battery when facing higher electrical loads, thus supporting several energy consumers with no hassle.

ACDELCO 48AGM PROFESSIONAL AGM AUTOMOTIVE BCI GROUP 48 BATTERY

With more than 100-year history on the U.S. market, ACDelco has been manufacturing parts and accessories for the automotive industry. All products are subject to testing and validation by General Motors which owns the brand.

This 12V AGM battery is suitable for SUVs, RVs, light trucks, or similar vehicles. It comes in a sturdy spill-free design which doesn’t require routine maintenance.

It has an increased starting power with its 760 cold cranking Amps. The installed capacity equals to 70 Ah, thus enhancing its cycling capabilities. Its 120 minutes reserve capacity is enough to accomplish multiple charging tasks with no rush.

Features

• Battery capacity (Ah): 70
• CCA (min): 760
• Weight (lbs): 45.5
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 11.9 x 7.5 x 7.6

This ACDelco professional-grade battery is suitable for heavy-duty applications, which may certainly take the lead in durability among other worthy options from our list.

ODYSSEY PC680 BATTERY

Odyssey batteries are manufactured by EnerSys Energy Products Inc., the U.S. company which was founded in 2000. Nowadays, it is a global supplier of advanced batteries and accompanying accessories for automotive, military industries and other professional-grade applications. The company has the production facilities located in the U.S., the U.K., and France.

The Odyssey PC680 is compact and lightweight battery which is ideal for various power sports applications like motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles and other light-duty techniques. With its 170 CCA this battery and 70% longer cycle life in comparison with traditional flooded lead acid options, it can ensure a smooth running of your vehicle during extended periods of time. This model is designed to withstand up to 400 cycles at 80% discharge without affecting its full capacity. The battery can be recharged within 406 hours which is the highest rate among similar models on the market.

Features

• Battery capacity (Ah): 16
• CCA (min): 170
• Weight (lbs): 15
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 7.1 x 3 x 6.6

This is the lightest option in our review of the advanced AGM batteries which still provides enough power and strength to endure high loads and vibrations.

DELPHI BU9035 MAXSTART AGM PREMIUM AUTOMOTIVE BATTERY, GROUP SIZE 35

Delphi Technologies is a global supplier of various parts, accessories and services for the automotive industry in more than 150 countries.

This battery is suitable for powering various cars and a range of demanding on-board electronics available on the market. This model features 680 CCA and 100 reserve capacity to ensure an ultimate performance under any unpredictable conditions.

The utmost durability of the DELPHI BU9035 is proved by a rugged corrosion-resistant housing design and fortified internal elements contributing to its superior anti-vibration capabilities.

Features

• Battery capacity (Ah): n/a
• CCA (min): 680
• Weight (lbs): 39.4
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 9 x 8.9 x 8.2

This AGM battery from Delphi is a good value for the money ensuring your vehicle with enough power and reliability.

CHROME BATTERY YTX30L-BS HIGH PERFORMANCE | SEALED AGM MOTORCYCLE BATTERY

Chrome Battery is a comparatively young U.S. company which is located in Carmel, Indiana. However, they offer a wide range of high-quality batteries and chargers for various fields of applications at affordable prices.

The 12V YTX30L-BS sealed AGM battery features 30Ah capacity and can deliver 360W on a constant basis. Also it is capable of delivering 385 CCA for a trouble-free instant starting of your motorcycle, snowmobile, ATV, or similar.

The battery comes in compact but rugged design to be used for various purposes easily transferring from one location to another, when necessary. Besides, this model features a patented sealed post as a superior anti-corrosion protection. The latter considerably increases the lifetime of a battery.

Features

• Battery capacity (Ah): 30
• CCA (min): 385
• Weight (lbs): 19.8
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 6.5 x 4.9 x 6.8

This power sport battery is the most budget-friendly option in our list; nevertheless it demonstrates ultimate performance and durability for its class!

INTERSTATE BATTERIES 12V 110 AH SLA / AGM DEEP CYCLE BATTERY 12V FOR SOLAR, WIND, AND RV APPLICATIONS

Interstate Batteries, Inc. is the U.S. provider of automotive, machine, and industrial batteries and accompanying after-sale services. The company has distributors around the globe with a continuous expansion on a constant basis.

This DCM0100 battery belongs to a line specifically designed for wheelchairs and scooters, as well as for RVs with all the range of on-board power hungry electronics, solar/wind energy storage, medical equipment, elevators and other mobility applications. Being an AGM battery this 12V 110Ah model doesn’t require almost no maintenance due to its design peculiarities. Also, this deep cycle battery is suitable for heavy-duty charging and discharging applications providing reliable, long-lasting performance. However, with the weight of 64.9 its mobility can be restricted. Thus, always take additional precautions while handling this battery.

Features

• Battery capacity (Ah): 110
• CCA (min): n/a
• Weight (lbs): 64.9
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 12.9 x 6.8 x 8.3

This battery will ensure a continuous and extended performance for different power consuming applications.