Best Marine Battery Options For Boats

Marine batteries are essential for boating, fishing, and sailing adventures, as they power the engine and onboard appliances. There are three basic types of marine batteries: starting batteries, deep cycle batteries, and dual-purpose batteries. Starting batteries deliver short bursts of power to start the engine, deep cycle batteries provide a continuous source of power over a longer period, and dual-purpose batteries function as both starting and deep cycle batteries.

When choosing a marine battery, it is important to consider the type of battery, its capacity, size, and intended use. Lithium-ion batteries, for example, offer faster recharge times, less weight, and longer lifespans but come with a higher price tag. On the other hand, traditional lead-acid batteries are more affordable but require more maintenance and have shorter lifespans.

Some of the best marine batteries on the market include the Odyssey Extreme Trolling Thunder, Optima BlueTop Deep Cycle, Tracker Lithium Gen2 Deep Cycle, Duracell Ultra Flooded Marine, and Bass Pro Shops Pro Series Deep-Cycle AGM Marine Battery. These batteries offer a range of features, such as spill-proof designs, vibration resistance, and extended lifespans, to meet the diverse needs of boaters.

Flooded lead-acid batteries

Pros:

• Affordability: They are the most affordable option among marine batteries, making them a cost-effective choice for boaters on a budget.
• High Surge Currents: Flooded lead-acid batteries can deliver high surge currents, making them suitable for applications that require quick energy bursts, such as engine starting and winching.
• Compatibility: These batteries are compatible with existing maritime infrastructure and charging systems, making them a versatile option for both small and large vessels.

Cons:

• Maintenance: Flooded lead-acid batteries require frequent maintenance, including checking electrolyte levels, cleaning terminals, and equalizing charges, to ensure optimal performance and prolong their lifespan.
• Spillage and Corrosion: One of the main challenges of these batteries is their susceptibility to spillage and corrosion. They need to be handled with care to avoid damage and require a quality vented battery box to contain any potential spills.
• Weight and Space Constraints: Lead-acid batteries have a higher weight-to-energy ratio compared to other battery types, which can be a concern for vessels with limited weight and space.
• Self-discharge: They have a relatively high self-discharge rate, requiring off-season charging and regular maintenance to maintain their performance.
• Vibration Sensitivity: Unlike AGM batteries, flooded lead-acid batteries are not as resistant to vibration and should be installed in an upright position.

When choosing flooded lead-acid batteries, it is important to consider the specific needs of your boat, including power requirements, weight and space constraints, and maintenance capabilities. While these batteries have their drawbacks, they remain a popular choice due to their affordability and compatibility with maritime systems.

Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries

AGM batteries are best known for their long lifespans, being spill-proof and leak-proof, requiring no maintenance, and having a slow passive discharging rate. AGM batteries can be discharged and recharged repeatedly and fully without sustaining damage. This is especially useful for boats that require batteries to power lights and accessories. AGM batteries are also completely sealed and spill-proof, eliminating the risk of acid leaks, which can be dangerous on a boat.

AGM batteries are also designed to resist vibration, making them ideal for use in rough or choppy water conditions. They have internal pressure valves that allow oxygen produced on the positive plates to migrate to the negative plates and recombine with hydrogen, producing water. This design allows AGM batteries to be completely sealed and maintenance-free.

AGM batteries offer a longer lifespan than traditional batteries, typically lasting up to twice as long as flooded-cell batteries. They also provide better resistance to vibration and shock. While AGM batteries typically have a higher upfront cost, the benefits and savings over time can make them a worthwhile investment.

When charging AGM batteries, it is important to use a battery charger specifically designed for AGM applications. AGM batteries should be charged at low voltages, with the charging voltage not exceeding 13.8 to 14.8 volts, to prevent battery damage.

Overall, AGM batteries are a reliable and durable option for marine vessels, offering superior performance and low maintenance.

Lithium-ion batteries

However, they are the most susceptible to damage due to overcharging and require a compatible charging system to prevent this. They are also more sensitive to high temperatures and have limited options for use as starting batteries.

When choosing a lithium-ion marine battery, it's important to consider the voltage and amp hours you need based on the equipment you'll be powering. If you want to increase voltage, you can run batteries in series, and if you want more amp hours, you can run them in parallel.

To maintain your lithium-ion marine batteries, it's recommended to avoid charging them in extreme cold or heat, charge them after each use, keep them in a dry and secure compartment, and use a lithium-specific charger.

Some popular options for lithium-ion marine batteries include the Dakota Lithium, MillerTech, PowerHouse Lithium, and ZPro Lithium brands, which are known for their high-quality products and excellent customer support.

Overall, while lithium-ion marine batteries come at a higher cost, they offer significant advantages in terms of performance, weight, and longevity, making them a good choice for those seeking a reliable and low-maintenance power solution for their boats.

Starting batteries

Optima 34M BlueTop Marine Starting Battery

This battery provides optimal starting power regardless of the weather conditions and has excellent vibration resistance. It features a unique SpiralCell design that offers clean power, making it environmentally friendly. It has 800 cold-cranking amps and 12 volts, with a 100-minute reserve capacity.

Odyssey 31-PC2150S Heavy Duty Commercial Battery

The Odyssey battery is designed for heavy-duty vehicles, including boats, and can deliver enough power to start many powerboats. It has a rugged construction that protects it against vibrations and impacts. The battery is fitted with pure virgin lead plates for maximum conductivity and power, and the brass terminals are tin-plated and corrosion-resistant. It operates within a temperature range of -40oF to 113oF and comes with a 4-year full replacement warranty, as well as a 3-year limited warranty.

Duracell Ultra 12V Flooded Starting Marine Battery

Recommended by Batteries Plus, this battery is ideal for starting marine engines and is designed to offer an extended lifespan and power.

Bass Pro Shops Pro Series Deep-Cycle AGM Marine Battery

This battery combines a reasonable price with impressive performance, delivering outstanding cold-cranking amps, reserve capacity, and marine-cranking amps. It can start your engines and power your trolling motor, audio systems, and fish finder. The battery recharges quickly and can withstand deep discharges. It has 545 cold-cranking amps, 25 amps (120 minutes) of reserve capacity, and 12 volts.

Everstart Marine 29DC

This is a good budget option for a starting battery, available at Walmart. It has 845 MCA (marine-cranking amps) and is designed for marine deep cycle use, making it suitable for starting your boat and running livewells. It comes with a 2-year free-replacement warranty and is expected to last around 5 years.

Precision Power Lithium 12V 100Ah

This battery is a good option for those seeking a dedicated electronics battery. It has been extensively tested in various scenarios and offers solid engineering and customer service. It comes with a 5-year full warranty and a 10-year limited warranty.

Goldenmate Lithium 12V 100Ah Orion 1000

Another budget lithium option, the Goldenmate battery offers good performance and features a digital readout and a Bluetooth app for monitoring. It has 100 amp hours and 12 volts, and the manufacturer claims it will last for 10 years or 3,000 to 5,000 cycles. It comes with a 5-year warranty for manufacturer defects.

X2Power AGM Marine Battery

Recommended by Batteries Plus as the best dual-purpose battery, this battery combines starting and deep cycle functions in one. It is made with pure lead for fast recharging and is non-spillable, non-gassing, and maintenance-free.

Deep-cycle batteries

When choosing a deep-cycle battery, it is important to consider the battery's amp-hour capacity and reserve minutes to ensure it meets your boat's energy needs. The amp-hour capacity refers to the total amount of electrical energy a battery can store and supply over a given period, typically measured in hours. For example, a battery with a 105-amp hour capacity can theoretically supply 1 amp of current for 105 hours, 2 amps for 52.5 hours, and so on.

• Banshee LiFeP04 Deep Cycle Battery 100Ah 12V: This lithium-ion battery is super lightweight, weighing 60% less than a typical lead battery. It offers up to 70% more cranking power and has a built-in LED voltage indicator.
• Bass Pro Shops Pro Series Deep-Cycle AGM Marine Battery: This battery combines reasonable pricing with outstanding performance, packing quite a bit of power with impressive cold-cranking amps, reserve capacity, and marine-cranking amps. It is easy to install due to its dual terminal design and offers long-term use with shock and vibration resistance.
• Mighty Max ML35-12 - 12V 35AH Deep Cycle Battery: This affordable option provides the benefits of AGM construction, including maintenance-free and leakproof design. It can be mounted in almost any position, making it suitable for tight spaces.
• VMAX SLR125 AGM Sealed Deep Cycle 12V 125Ah Batteries: These sealed deep-cycle batteries can deliver exceptional performance for up to 10 years in float mode.
• Duracell Ultra 12V Flooded Deep Cycle Marine Battery: This battery is ideal for powering trolling motors, fish finders, and other applications. It is designed to provide extended power and battery life on the water.
• X2Power 12V Lithium Deep Cycle Marine Battery: This lithium battery offers up to 10x longer cycle life than standard batteries and features ultra-fast charging and discharging, along with a long cycle life.
• Interstate Deep Cycle Batteries: These batteries are a proven, budget-friendly option that has powered everything from small one-man boats to larger vessels. They feature simple and proven technology, and with no bells and whistles, there is less that can go wrong.
• Deka Marine Master: These batteries are easy to find and have consistently exceeded expectations. They are widely available through marine dealers, auto parts stores, and hardware stores, making replacements convenient.
• Dakota Lithium: Dakota Lithium offers a wide array of options to fit any scenario or need, including solid choices for kayak and ice fishing applications. Their batteries manage power very well and provide clean, consistent power.
• LiTime 12V 100Ah Bluetooth Trolling Motor Lithium Battery: This battery stands out for its reliability and power efficiency, delivering excellent performance in demanding conditions. It offers Bluetooth connectivity for real-time monitoring and low-temperature cut-off protection for safe operation in extreme conditions.
• MillerTech Lithium 12V Dual Purpose 135Ah: MillerTech offers a range of lithium battery options to fit various fishing needs. Their batteries are extremely well-made, manage power terrifically, and charge fast. They also provide excellent customer service and a hassle-free warranty.
• Goldenmate Lithium 12V 100Ah Orion 1000: This budget-friendly lithium battery performs well and has a great digital readout and informative app. It comes with a 5-year warranty for manufacturer defects.
• Everstart Marine 29DC: This budget-friendly lead acid battery from Walmart has been a reliable option for over a decade. It is simple, no-nonsense, and easy to charge with nearly all 12V chargers.

When choosing a deep-cycle battery, consider your budget, power needs, and the specific applications you require. Additionally, pay attention to the battery's size and weight, especially if you have limited space in your boat's storage area.

Frequently asked questions