8 Best RV Batteries Reviewed

Welcome, my fellow bright sparks, to this expert review of the eight BEST RV batteries for your buck. You have power needs, and I have power solutions! The answers you seek are within, and no longer will you be in the dark.

I’ve spent many lonesome nights on the road in my trusty portable home. Having an all-out comprehensive power solution makes those lonesome nights that much less lonesome. And yes, I am speaking from personal experience.

 It’s nice to have lighting. It’s nice to be able to charge your phone and call home! Going off-grid doesn’t mean you can’t be a little on-grid.

But I’ll be the first to say that RV batteries are COMPLICATED. For the longest time, I stayed right out of the world of RV electronics. It’s only after years of experience that I’ve learned how to separate the good batteries from the shockingly bad ones.

And speaking of the best, the results are in! The top pick is without a doubt the Battle Born Batteries LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery. This premium purchase offers performance and reliability out the wazoo!

But that doesn’t mean it’s the best battery for you. RV batteries are specific to both the RVer’s needs as well as the setup of their rig. So whether it’s cheaper, smaller, or built to withstand the impact of a small nuclear missile, you’ll find it in this guide.

Are you ready? Of course you are! You’re a bright spark.

And the brightest sparks only buy the best batteries.

How to Choose the Best RV Battery

No matter whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time nomad, an RV battery is your lifeline. I’ve spent countless nights camped out under the stars. As much as the Great Outdoors are a vibe, they’re much more suited to long-term living if you have adequate lighting and a way to charge your essentials!

Picking the right RV battery makes all the difference to your enjoyment of the lifestyle. Having a capacity suitable for your needs is the obvious first parameter. However, there’s a lot more to consider. 

You want reliability. You want durability. Even more so, you want to know what YOU need. Only then can you buy a battery that meets that.

Before even making the purchase, I’d suggest you sit down and plan. Map out the spacing of your RV and where things will go. Consider the appliances you’ll want. Charging a phone and a laptop is one thing. Running a whole washer dryer unit is a whole other story!

Preparation is key to making a purchase that ensures your lifeline is just that and not a tremendous pain in the posterior. So to make sure your love-hate relationship with your RV’s electronics remains on the “love” side of the spectrum, let’s dig into the key considerations!!

Durability

A durable battery ensures you won’t be left in the dark on a chilly night. Or worse, with a fridge full of spoiling food and no milk for your morning brew!

Durability also equates to less frequent replacements and a lot more reliability in your battery’s performance. Basically, durability equals peace of mind.

Seek out batteries with sturdy casings and high resistance to vibrations. This makes a big difference on the bumpy roads ahead.

I also like to keep an eye out for batteries with corrosion-resistant terminals. Generally speaking, lithium-ion batteries usually outshine their lead-acid counterparts in durability.

Capacity

Capacity represents how much energy the battery can store. Consider it the stamina of your RV.

Sure you can have a little Energizer bunny running amok with incredible output. But if it doesn’t have the endurance of a tortoise, it won’t last long.

Focus on batteries with a higher amp-hour (Ah) rating.

For most RV adventures, a capacity ranging between 100-200 Ah should suffice. Less than 100 Ah and you’re looking at a lifestyle of charging gadgets and not much else. More than 200 Ah, and not even the icy tundras of Canada will be able to stop your off-grid expeditions!

Shelf Life

The longer the shelf life for your battery, the less you’ll need to recharge. The shelf life also dictates how long you can keep your battery in storage when not in regular use. This is relevant to campers who love being in secluded spots long-term. Casual adventurers who might not use their battery for months at a time should also take this into account.

I’ve found that batteries with a self-discharge rate of less than 3% per month are golden. At that level, I have the freedom to camp off-grid without forever worrying about my draining battery levels.

Types of RV Batteries

Equally important is the type of battery that you buy. The very first lead-acid battery ever invented was way back in 1859. Since then, the tech has only gotten better!

So whether you like old-school or new-school, all battery types present their own pros and cons.

Lead-Acid

Speaking of old-school, flooded lead-acid batteries might be 200-year-old veterans in the scene, but they still more than hold their own in the market. While not as efficient as some modern battery types, they’re very reliable. They also tend to be more budget-friendly. I’ve enjoyed many an RV journey with a trusty flooded lead-acid battery.

Lithium-Ion And LIFEPO4

But now we’re talking high performance! These battery types are lightweight, offer longer lifespans, and have faster charging times.

Specifically, LiFePO4 batteries are safer and have longer lifespans than lithium-ion variants. But a lithium battery will have a higher energy efficiency and density. Either way, they’re both premium battery types well suited for full-time and long-time RV-lifers.

Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM)

These are a notch above lead-acid variants, but without reaching the soaring heights of lithium-ion and LiFePO4. These are sealed, maintenance-free, and with a good balance between cost and performance.

AGM batteries are a strong go-to for weekend getaways and the casual RV lifestyle.

Gel

Although rarer on the market, gel cell batteries are known for their impeccable deep-cycle capabilities. They’re less prone to leakage and perform well in high temperatures. For that reason, they’re quite a good option if you intend to do a lot of traveling in the State’s southern regions. You can even head abroad to other treasured RV hotspots like the Great Down Under!

12-Volt VS 6-Volt RV Battery

Ahh, well, every niche hobby must have its controversial opinions! This debate often boils down to personal preference. 

At a glance, 12-volt batteries provide more power and are easier to set up. But 6-volt batteries often last longer and generally provide a steadier power output. Personally, I’ve always gone for the simplicity of a 12-volt battery.

Having said that, a couple of 6-volt batteries linked together will give you a reliability that will rarely (if ever) falter.

The 8 Best RV Batteries

I’ve rounded up the “what to look for”, let’s discuss the “what to get”. Note that these are all deep cycle batteries. This is simply because deep cycle batteries are dual-purpose batteries. They’re able to provide an initial burst to start the engine and also deliver cycling power for running other electrical items.

Now, are you ready for some shockingly insightful reviews on the best RV batteries? Then sink your teeth into these POWERful contenders.

Puns away!

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Best Overall

1. Battle Born Batteries LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery

• Type: LiFePO4
• Capacity: 100 Ah
• Shelf Life: ~1 year
• Dimensions: 12.8” x 6.9” x 9”
• Warranty: 10 years

Ready for all the battles to fare on the road ahead? Then try the Battle Born Batteries LiFePO4 Battery: the BEST RV battery to take with you no matter the foe.

As a battery sitting on the very premium end of the spectrum, the Battle Born offers a lot. Just as all good warriors must, it focuses on longevity and durability. Its lithium-ion build lasts 10 times longer than its lead-acid counterparts. And because of its acid-free design, the battery is very versatile and mountable in any orientation.

Meanwhile, its durability matches that of Achilles himself!  The Battle Born features a specialized internal Battery Management System (BMS). This protects it from common failures such as…

• High and low voltage
• Short circuits
• And temperature fluctuations. 

Nevertheless, if you’re still worried, it even has a 10-year warranty! That alone justifies the hefty investment.

But that’s also the downside. The Battle Born is a HEFTY investment. It’s the second-most expensive RV battery you’ll find on this list. 

That’s perfectly reasonable though considering the level of premium this RV deep cycle battery offers. It’s a long-term product for the years to come. However, it might not be the smartest buy for very casual RVers or more budget-geared travelers with lower power needs.

But full-timers and luxury livers need look no further! The Battle Born Battery has cut its teeth on enough trials and tribulations of the nomadic life. It’ll accompany you into all frontiers. It packs more power and more endurance into a lighter and smaller build than a lot of other cheaper deep cycle batteries. And it’s more than equipped to service even the grandest of RVs.

Anyone who’s serious about their on-the-road living needs a battery built like this.

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Best Splurge

2. LiTime 12V 300Ah Lithium LiFePO4 Battery

• Type: LiFePO4
• Capacity: 300 Ah
• Shelf Life: ~ 2 years
• Dimensions: 20.6” x 9.5” x 8.6”
• Warranty: 5 years

Alternatively, get a battery built like this! The LiTime LiFePO4 Battery is the epitome of RV battery luxury equipped to accompany you into all conquests. Just like the formidable Battle Born, LiTime hails from the very premium end of the spectrum. However, it’s the LiTime’s edge in capacity, shelf life, and elite features that propel it to the top.

At its core (literally), the LiTime stands out due to its high-quality automotive-grade LiFePO4 cells. This doesn’t just translate to safer output. You also get higher energy density, superior power, and unmatched performance stability. Meanwhile, much like the Battle Born, LiTime houses a built-in BMS for protection against all those pesky common threats.

But the LiTime does still stand taller. While the Battle Born boasts impressive longevity and durability, the LiTime has a significantly larger capacity and excellent self-discharge rate. These make it even more resilient for those extended road journeys. No matter how long the journey might be, the LiTime promises to always keep the lights on and the music bangin’.

Of course, although, the LiTime’s comes pretty darn tootin’ close, perfection is elusive. It lacks specific features catering to extreme temperatures such as internal heating and cooling. If you’re venturing into truly extreme locales, there are better batteries designed for these climates. However, this robust build is going to manage just about anything that’s not Canada’s Arctic tundras.

The only other real downside to this deep cycle RV battery is its steep price. But that also reflects the user. Any nomad 100% dedicated to the lifestyle will be overjoyed with this battery and willing to fork out the extra cash. The LiTime ensures an uninterrupted and lavish RV experience in the lap of luxury for years to come.

The Battle Born might be the trusty warrior we all need, but the LiTime is the luxury knight in shining armor we want. It packs power and a whole lot of it!

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Best Budget

3. WEIZE 12V 100Ah Deep Cycle AGM Battery

• Type: AGM
• Capacity: 100 Ah
• Shelf Life: ~2 years
• Dimensions: 5.1” x 9.1” x 11.2”
• Warranty: 1 year

I’ve always preferred minimalism and a lower footprint. If you’re like me, something like the wallet-friendly WEIZE will be way better suited to your needs. It’s the “champagne taste on a beer budget” solution!

Despite its lower price point, this RV deep cycle battery still packs a serious wallop. Its deep cycle design means it’ll dance through repeat charges and discharges without stumbling. Plus, it’s got adaptability. It’s a durable, maintenance-free AGM battery. That means you can swap it from powering your RV’s creature comforts to the other spices of life (like your solar setup) with relative ease.

In fact, though it’s not as hardened as the Battle Born, its capacity proves that price isn’t everything. There are heaps of reports from happy campers saying this covered all their power needs during their weekend adventures.

Of course, it’s still most definitely NOT the Battle Born. Compared to lithium batteries like the Battle Born, the WEIZE is sensitive to overcharging. (Which is common amongst AGM batteries.) It’ll never rival the performance of lithium-ion variants and the reliability they offer nomadic souls. Similarly, its warranty is 10% of the Battle Born’s.

So in comparison to the Battle Born and LiTime, there’s definitely a David versus Goliath vibe. Still, it’s easily the best RV battery at this price range. It gives you solid performance without emptying your pockets. Maybe you prefer your RV road trips to be more budget-oriented. Or maybe you just don’t travel with on-board amenities that rival a small mansion. Either way, you can’t do much better than the WEIZE. It’s also a great choice for a replacement battery.

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Best Monitoring

4. Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery

• Type: AGM
• Capacity: 100 Ah
• Shelf Life: ~6-8 years
• Dimensions: 13.1” x 6.9” x 8.6”
• Warranty: 2 years 

We’ve spoken a lot about how these deep cycle batteries meet your needs. But are you meeting the needs of your battery? With the Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery, you can! It’s an intelligent product choice for savvy RVers who prioritize the health and longevity of their battery.

This all comes down to the onboard monitoring technology. This innovative feature monitors real-time voltage and current draws to ensure stable discharges. This also puts control back in YOUR hands. There’s no reason not to stay on top of your battery’s health and ensure it’s maximizing its performance.

Other than that, it’s a mid-range product that screams balance versus features. It’s got a ridiculously long shelf life and low discharge rate (one of Renogy’s claims to fame with their catalog of products). Plus, its performance holds up even in extreme temperatures. It boasts durability in the chills of -4°F up to a toasty 140°F.

Nonetheless, despite its premium features at a middle-of-the-pack price, this is still an AGM battery. It has the aforementioned sensitivity to overcharging. It’ll also never rival the power efficiency and density of its lithium-loaded cousins. Plus, I’d say it’s an extremely heavy battery compared to others I’ve used. This makes installation quite tricky (and likely a two-human job).

In the grand scheme of (RV)life, the Battle Born and LiTime still overshadow it in terms of raw power. However, if the WEIZE and other budget batteries aren’t quite right, then the mid-tier Renogy could be the perfect fit for you. Particularly if the idea of reliable performance and smart monitoring appeals to you. I dare say it’s a top pick for all the part-time RVers who want reliability when on the road and long-term storage solutions when off it.

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Best Versatility

5. Optima BlueTop Battery

• Type: AGM
• Capacity: 55 Ah
• Shelf Life: ~8-12 months
• Dimensions: 10.1” x 6.9” x 7.9”
• Warranty: 3 years

If you need a deep cycle battery that can adapt to just about any situation, the Optima BlueTop is the one to be sniffing out. This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill power source: it’s engineered for adaptability.

At the BlueTop’s heart is the SpiralCell design. This innovative feature of Optima batteries provides impressive resistance to vibration. Think 15 times MORE than your typical battery. It also guarantees superior durability.

On top of that, it’s designed with both marine and RV environments in mind. This means it’s weather-resistant and prepared for any storms ahead.

Lastly, as an AGM battery, it’s spill-proof and low maintenance. This allows you to mount it in almost any orientation. It’s a perfect match for both road warriors and salty sailors alike. And trust me,  there’s more in common between the two lifestyles than you might think!

However, there’s no skirting around it – it’s pricier than the WEIZE. And for that higher price, you’re looking at a significantly lower capacity and shorter shelf life too. It’s definitely not the best value battery if you’re purely seeking a balanced power-to-cost ratio.

Still, if you’re looking for a versatile battery that thrives in diverse environments, it’s got you covered. In fact, if you like to combine your outdoor adventures with some marine activities, you could get a two-for-one with the Optima! But if this versatility is overkill and battery power and price are the greater concerns, I’d say the WEIZE is the overall better package.

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Best Small Battery

6. Odyssey PC680 Battery

• Type: AGM
• Capacity: 16 Ah
• Shelf Life: ~2 years
• Dimensions: 7.2” x 3” x 6.4”
• Warranty: 2 years

Speaking of packages, if ever there was a product to show good things do come in small ones, it would be the Odyssey. This is a very small deep cycle battery built for very limited use. But the RVers that suit that specification will be stoked with the result!

The Odyssey PC680 is a good RV battery for those who prefer a more minimalist mobile lifestyle. Its compact size ensures it snugly fits in pretty much any setup without hassle. As such, it’s ideal for Class B motorhomes or full-blown grungy vanlifers of the dirtbag arts. 

But despite its small stature, this thing is sturdy. Its resilient construction is designed to tackle shock and vibration. In other words, it’s very marryable with RV road trips. Moreover, it houses dense pure lead plates. These promise both an amplified power output and remarkable longevity.

But remember how I said this was for minimalistic mobile lifestyles? With a tiny 16 Ah capacity, the Odyssey is better suited for charging devices and powering small, essential appliances. It simply won’t work for luxury coaches or even more standard Class C steeds. The bonus of the small capacity, however, is that the Odyssey charges up lighting fast!

Just to drill it in, this is a great RV battery for minimalist and budget travelers. It’s really more for camping in a bit of style rather than full-blown RV-living. Budget road-trippers with smaller vehicles, low power needs, and low stacks of cash will be delighted by its performance, size, and durability.

But everyone else in larger motorhomes will need more. You can go for something like the Battle Born for its hardened performance. Alternatively, you can get the WEIZE for its power-to-cost ratio. Either way, there are options better suited to the complete RV lifestyle.

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Best Durability

7. Vmaxtanks’ VMAXSLR125 AGM 12V 125Ah SLA Rechargeable Deep Cycle Battery

• Type: AGM
• Capacity: 125 Ah
• Shelf Life: ~10 years
• Dimensions: 6.8” x 12.9” x 8.7”
• Warranty: 1 year

Adventure seekers and off-road enthusiasts, gather around. The VMAXSLR125 isn’t just a battery—it’s a behemoth. Other run-of-the-mill deep cycle batteries might whimper at the sight of a bumpy, unsealed road. But the military-level construction of the VMAX simply giggles in glee at every pothole and corrugation.

Maintenance woes? Not with the VMAX! This thing has it all:

• Extreme vibration resistance
• A heavy-duty build
• And tailor-made military-grade plates

It’s a powerful beast of a battery ready for wherever the roads, or lack thereof, take you.

But taking that reliability one step further is the AGM technology. This deep cycle battery employs a specialized electrolyte suspension system. So, even if you neglect it for a bit, this little trooper doesn’t lose its charge like some drama-queen batteries might. That’s reflected in the 1-2% discharge rate. You’ll net yourself up to 10 years of shelf life in the right conditions.

There’s not a lot of negatives about the VMAX. I’d say it’s more of a personal needs thing. For example, the Optima BlueTop also offers versatility and durability. That said, its lower capacity and easier installation make it more for RV owners who need versatility over durability.

The VMAX, meanwhile, is bigger, meaner, and heavier. Once it’s installed, I much prefer not to take it out again. Price-to-power-wise, it also packs more punch than most budget batteries like the WEIZE. In fact, it’s very comparable to the Renogy as a mid-tier offering.

That’s why it’s the best pick for serious off-roaders! Even 4X4ers with solar setups might want to consider the VMAX. Perhaps other comparable batteries on this list met your power needs but didn’t seem like they’d hold up during your most offbeat and off-grid adventures. If that’s the case, then the VMAX is the tough-as-nails option for you.

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Best For Casual Usage

8. WindyNation 100AH 12V AGM Deep Cycle Sealed Lead Acid Battery

• Type: AGM
• Capacity: 100 Ah
• Shelf Life: ~12 years
• Dimensions: 13” x 6.8” x 8.7”
• Warranty: 1 year

Twelve years! If your jaw hit the floor when you saw that shelf life, you’re not alone! And that’s why this deep cycle battery is perfect for the most casual of RVers.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a weekend warrior or head out once a year for Christmas. This deep cycle battery will quite literally outlive most of its competitors with that insane shelf life. You can even very comfortably de-install it for storage. You’ll still have some juice to come back to when you’re ready!

The WindyNation also puts a lot of attention into the quality of its build materials. Instead of compromising with recycled lead, WindyNation opts for an almost pure virgin lead – 99.995% pure total! This quality translates into a ridiculous shelf life. It also further enhances the battery’s ability to sustain deep, repetitive charges.

It’s honestly very comparable to the WEIZE. The WindyNation is more expensive than the WEIZE and prioritizes longevity over all-around performance. It’s also a tad heavier and bigger, making installation trickier. I’d say the WEIZE is the better overall choice for part-time to full-time RVers who need top performance calendar-round.

But if you indulge in RVing sporadically, then the WindyNation is a gem. Its unparalleled shelf life makes it ideal for those who hit the road less often. It comes in at a very reasonable price for that niche too. While part-time adventures will like the Weize more, this might be the more attractive choice for weekend wanderers. 

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FAQs

Navigating the world of RV batteries can throw up a host of questions. It certainly did for me my first time around the bends! 

You have questions, and I have the answers. I’ve been on countless escapades (and a few mishaps too) in the RV realm. Here are my answers to the most commonly pondered queries about RV batteries.

Can RV Batteries Withstand Extreme Temperatures?

Absolutely, but to a limit. Batteries are designed to perform within a range of temperatures. This means their efficiency can wane in extreme conditions. For instance, lead-acid batteries might struggle in bone-chilling temperatures. On the other hand, lithium-ion ones often fare better. That said, it’s also essential to know that high temperatures can also shorten a battery’s lifespan. 

If you’re planning on venturing into extreme frontiers, it’s good to purchase an RV battery prepared for that journey. Some batteries are simply more climate-resistant. But other batteries will have on-board protection mechanisms for extreme temperatures.

Are these RV batteries American-made?

Some of the batteries on this list are made in the States while others aren’t. Having said that, many RV batteries are indeed manufactured in the USA and boast rigorous quality and testing standards. 

Of course, there’s absolutely zero reason to prioritize American origins in your battery purchase. With globalization, industry-dominating battery brands come from all over the world! When I’m buying a new battery, my focus is on the quality and reviews rather than just the manufacturer’s origin

What is the Average Lifetime of an RV Battery?

Ahh, the age-old (sticky) question! My question to you is how long is a piece of string?

In general, they last longer than car batteries. That said, the lifespan of your battery is going to fluctuate quite a bit depending on how well you take care of it and how carefully you store it.

On average, a typical lead-acid battery can last anywhere between three and five years.

Meanwhile, lithium-ion batteries, with their superior technology, often boast a lifespan of up to 10 years. But in the end, it’s still going to come down to how you treat your battery.

How Long Should RV Batteries Last?

Regarding the duration between charges, a fully-charged RV battery can power your rig for about 48-72 hours.

However, that’s seriously contextualized by the battery’s capacity amongst other things. The actual duration will vary greatly from battery to battery.

The best thing you can do is give it a few solid test runs before going on any major expeditions to learn the best way to manage your battery.

How to Best Charge My RV Battery?

Charging your RV battery correctly ensures its longevity.

The golden rule a lot of RV veterans swear by is to never let your battery drain below 50%. Using a multi-stage charger that includes a bulk, absorption, and float phase can also maximize your battery’s health. 

Regularly check and clean battery terminals. And if you’re using lead-acid types, ensure the water levels are topped up.

Remember that to secure the best performance from your battery, you need to have at least some input on the maintenance. They’re not just a plug-and-play solution!

Our Verdict

And now you’re all wired up and ready for the road! As I said, batteries are complicated. However, they’re a whole lot less complicated when you have a bang-on review to guide you through your purchase!

After spending a silly amount of time in the rabbit hole, reading specs and reviews on all the best battery brands, my choice still remains clear. The Battle Born Deep Cycle Battery is the best purchase for RVers. It’s 100% the right choice for full-time and part-time RV-livers who never want to deal with a power outage again.

But if you don’t have the capital to fund an incredibly lavish RV glamping experience, the WEIZE Deep Cycle AGM is the best budget pick. I’ve scoured through all the low-end and mid-tier options, and there’s no question that WEIZE jams the best performance into the cheapest package possible.

Whatever you do though, get yourself a battery. And take care of it! There are some luxuries of life on the road that you probably don’t need. A battery is NOT one of them.

Without it, you’re camping in a glorified tent. Part of the freedom of the open road means infinite possibility. And while it might go against the nomad’s code, some reliance on electricity enhances that freedom. You can adventure longer, harder, and even make a career of it and never go home.

So in that sense, an RV battery is the golden ticket to the Peter Pan lifestyle that awaits. Go hard and never go home, fellow bright sparks! Or if you do, then at least have the capability to light your way back there.