The best RV battery will allow any camper’s essential systems to run for days at a time, whether you’re dry camping, going on an extended road trip, or facing an extended power outage at the campground.
However, the world of RV batteries is vast and complex, and there are so many options to consider. Below, we will break down the various types of recreational vehicle batteries and then review some top-rated ones.
If you’re hunting for the best RV battery, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve researched extensively and reviewed the best of the best RV batteries you can buy in 2022.
Let’s dive in.
RV Batteries Explained
Motorhomes or drivable RVs come with two types of batteries on board:
Chassis Battery
Also called the starter battery, this is the battery used to start your motorhome’s engine when you hit the ignition. It also operates other automotive systems such as windshield wipers and vehicle lighting. You won’t find this battery in towable RVs.
It’s made with many thin plates to supply a huge amount of starting current in short bursts. It’s rated in Cold Cranking Amps—the ability to start an engine in cold temperatures. Additionally, it’s unable to perform deep cycle applications such as powering appliances, as it isn’t built to provide long periods of power.
House Battery
Also referred to as the 12-volts or deep cycle battery, this battery supplies the requisite 12-volts that allow all electronic devices to work correctly. It serves as the power source for all other energy-related applications, such as running the interior lights, water pump, small appliances, TV, and for powering devices.
A house battery is constructed with fewer but thick lead plates to provide relatively smaller amounts of current for long periods of time without needing to be recharged right away. It’s rated in Amp Hours (AH) or Reserve Capacity (RC).
A 12 volts battery can be charged by shore power, generator, solar power, or even the chassis battery when the RV is driving. Depending on your power needs, you can have more than one house battery on board.
Construction Types of RV Batteries
Deep cycle RV batteries are not built the same. Below is a quick breakdown of the various house battery constructions:
Lead-Acid Batteries
Sometimes called a wet cell, lead acid is the most common type of RV battery, and it consists of flat plates of lead submerged in an electrolyte. The electrolyte can either be a liquid or semi-solid gel. These batteries need constant watering and can be damaged if discharged below 50%.
AGM Batteries
Absorbent glass mat (AGM) batteries are sealed lead-acid batteries that use fiberglass mats to absorb the electrolyte. They are maintenance-free, leakproof, can handle extreme temperatures, and don’t off-gas. Also, you can discharge them up to 80%.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Also called lithium iron phosphate or LiFePO4 batteries, these batteries use the metal lithium in place of lead. They provide more power than the others, charge faster, are lighter, don’t need regular maintenance, last the longest, perform well in all temperatures, and can be discharged without damage. Price-wise, they are the most expensive option.
Best RV Batteries in 2022
Now, what you’ve been waiting for – wondering which RV batteries are best? Below is a breakdown of the top RV batteries in the market today.
Best Overall RV Battery: Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle
Volts: 12 Volts
Battery Cell: Lithium-Ion
Weight: 31 lbs
Capacity: 100 Ah
Warranty: 10 Years
If you’re trying to track down a battery that delivers an all-around great performance, the Battle Born LiFePO4 is the best 12V RV house battery for any of your needs. Made in the USA, this unit uses the highest standards of technology in deep-cycle lithium-ion batteries. Although expensive up front, it has exceptional longevity, making it more economical in the long term. Expect to get 3000 to 5000 cycles from it.
Battle Born batteries have an unlimited mounting capability and are a third of the weight of their lead-acid counterparts. They’re fitted with a battery management system that helps prevent the most common causes of battery failure, such as temperature volatility. Another perk is they’re made from100% safe, non-toxic, renewable materials.
Best Dual Purpose RV Battery: Optima BlueTop D34M Deep Cycle Battery
Volts: 12 Volts
Battery Cell: AGM
Weight: 43.5 lbs
Capacity: 55 Ah
Warranty: 2 Years
Another high-performance battery is the Optima BlueTop D34M. It is a deep-cycle battery built to function as an RV house battery for rigs with large accessory loads. However, it also has excellent starter capabilities, making it a good option for someone who wants a sure-starting and strong cranking power source even in extreme weather.
The Optima BlueTop boasts an outstanding runtime and more recharges than what traditional batteries deliver. Additionally, this battery is 15 times more resistant to vibration than the average deep cycle battery, helping prolong its lifespan. You’ll also love the fact that it’s leakproof, can be mounted in virtually any position, and is maintenance-free.
Best RV Battery for Boondocking: Expert Power LiFePO4 Deep Cycle
Volts: 12 Volts
Battery Cell: Lithium-Ion
Weight: 27 lbs
Capacity: 100 Ah
Warranty: 1 Year
If you’re looking for an RV battery for dry camping, go for the Expert Power 12V 100AH. With a total capacity of 100Ah and 2500 to 7000 cycles, the ExpertPower battery is quite a workhorse that can handle a wide array of applications, including storing solar-generated energy. One of its biggest benefits is its long service life, which is around 10 years.
You can use up to 96% of the energy it stores, which allows you to power your appliances longer. The battery is designed with an environmentally friendly approach, and it also has an in-built safety system to protect it from overcharge, deep discharge, short circuit, overheating, or overloading. Another thing this battery does really well is holding onto its juice, with a self-discharge rate of only 2 percent per month.
Best Lithium RV Battery: Renogy LiFePO4
Volts: 12 Volts
Battery Cell: Lithium-Ion
Weight: 26 lbs
Capacity: 100 Ah
Warranty: No Warranty
If all you want is a lithium RV battery that’s reliable, efficient, and smart, consider the Renogy LiFePO4. Its superior cells ensure a lifespan of more than 4000 cycles and 100Ah continuous discharge current. You can use this battery when camping in a wide range of temperatures without any disappointment. In extremely cold conditions, its self-healing function will activate, ensuring it stays charged.
Besides self-heating, it has other intelligent functions, including a battery management system that controls short circuits, overcharging, and temperatures while still retaining a balanced voltage across all cells. It has an auto-balance feature for connecting multiple batteries and a function that enables communication with a Bluetooth-connected computer, allowing you to monitor the charging status in real time.
Best AGM RV Battery: VMAX XTR6-235 6 Volt 235Ah
Volts: 12 Volts
Battery Cell: AGM
Weight: 78 lbs
Capacity: 235 Ah
Warranty: 1 Year
VMAX batteries are famous for their unmatched reliability and performance when used in RVs and boats. The VMAX XTR6-235 6 Volt 235Ah is capable of delivering high currents, and its extreme deep cycle capabilities make it suitable for powering electronic equipment on board your rig. This top-rated unit not only delivers lasting, reliable power, but it’s also highly durable.
The battery will last more than 10 years if managed and maintained correctly. It has a military-grade construction quality, doesn’t release any harmful fumes, and is maintenance-free. On the downside, this unit is very heavy and large compared to other deep cycle batteries, making it unsuitable for RVers who want to keep their rig’s weight low.
Most Budget-Friendly RV Battery: WindyNation 100Ah AGM Battery
Volts: 12 Volts
Battery Cell: AGM
Weight: 71 lbs
Capacity: 100 Ah
Warranty: 1 Year
The WindyNation 100Ah 12V Battery is a great example of an RV battery that is offered at a low price without sacrificing power. At less than $250, you’ll get a battery with an impressive shelf life and exceptional durability. It’s specially designed to offer off-grid power, making it an excellent choice for anyone camping in remote areas, away from a dependable energy source.
Although it’s heavy and big like other AGM batteries, it stands out because it’s made from 99.995% pure virgin lead, giving it an extremely low discharge rate. It has a sealed, non-spillable construction and can be mounted in any position except for the terminals facing down. This gives you more flexibility in installing the batteries in your battery compartment.
Best RV Battery for Lighter Loads: Interstate DCM0035
Volts: 12 Volts
Battery Cell: AGM
Weight: 23 lbs
Capacity: 35 Ah
Warranty: 1 Year
If you want an RV battery for lighter applications like powering individual appliances, consider the Interstate DCM0035. It’s one of the best 12V deep cycle batteries if you don’t want to spend so much on a battery that you won’t be using it much often. Apart from its friendly price point, it’s easy to install, lightweight, and has a compact footprint. It also boasts a long life for deep discharge usage.
The Interstate RV battery is maintenance-free and is built using VRLA Technology to prevent spilling and over-pressurization. An extremely durable case keeps it safe in rough terrain and harsh weather. The main drawback is that it isn’t ideal for powering multiple appliances due to its small capacity.
Wrapping Up: Which is the Best RV Battery?
An RV battery is at the heart of any successful camping trip. But picking the right fit will come down to what kind of camper you are, your budget, and your power needs.
Ultimately, Lithium-Ion batteries offer the most value for the money regardless of what type of RVer you are. They live longer, have a larger reserve, recharge faster, and perform well in all temperatures. In addition, they’re lighter, maintenance-free, and safer.
Want an RV but not ready to invest in a motorhome or travel trailer? Here on Outdoorsy, you can find all types of RVs for rent, including those fitted with powerful batteries for dry camping.
