In the early 1970s, multiple investigations in the field of efficient and safe battery technologies led to the 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 a battery is considered to be a leak- and maintenance-free which makes it the best user-friendly option among other modern battery technologies.

Best AGM Batteries Compared

1. Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery 12 Volt 100Ah

This 12V deep cycle AGM battery features an excellent 100Ah capacity. Besides, it has the highest rate of 1800 CCA in the class. Its operating temperature range varies from 32-104F° for charging, and from 5-122F° for discharging. A self-discharge rate is maintained below 3% per month at 77°F.

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2. Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery 12 Volt 100Ah and 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel

The 12V 100Ah battery is designed to ensure optimum performance even at freezing temperatures. The high capacity and self-discharging rate, which is 5 % lower than conventional lead-acid batteries, are ensured by an advanced electrolyte. The 100W 12V solar panel comes in a compact design without compromising higher performance and durability, within a wide range of operating temperatures from -40°F to 176°F.

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3. Optima Batteries DH6

This 12V AGM deep cycle battery can deliver 800 cold cranking Amps. It is designed for vehicles with plenty of electronics and for audio systems. It can be recharged faster with more than 300 discharge/recharge cycles with a capacity of 72Ah. Also, it has 3x longer life and 15x more resistance to vibrations than conventional lead-acid counterparts.

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4. ACDelco 48AGM Professional AGM Automotive BCI Group 48 Battery

This 12V AGM automotive battery features high cycling capabilities. Its capacity amounts to 70Ah, with up to 120 minutes reserve capacity, which is one of the best among its competitors. The battery can be efficiently operated within 0-32F° range temperatures. Its robust and maintenance-free design contributes to higher vibration resistance.

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5. Odyssey PC680 Battery

It features 70% longer cycle life in comparison with conventional deep cycle batteries. It can withstand up to 400 cycles at 80% discharge. This 12V battery for power sport vehicles can be recharged within 4-6 hours; this rate is one of the fastest among other counterparts.

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6. Delphi BU9035 MaxStart AGM Premium Automotive Battery

This model comes with improved cycle life. It can provide higher cold cranking power of 680 Amps with up to 100 minutes of reserve capacity. It comes in a superior sealed corrosion-resistant design to withstand higher vibrations and higher loads.

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7. Chrome Battery YTX30L-BS AGM Motorcycle Battery

This 12V compact and lightweight battery is specifically designed for various sports applications like motorcycles, ATVs, jet skis, etc. With a constant capacity of 30Ah, this item can generate up to 385 CCA for an instant start. The weight of this battery is 19 lbs only, which makes it one of the lightest options for light-duty technics.

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8. Interstate Batteries 12V 110 Ah SLA / AGM Deep Cycle Battery 12V (DCM0100)

This 12V 110Ah battery, with an outstanding deep cycle power, features an increased versatility to be used with RVs, marine motors, solar/wind storage systems, medical equipment, and others. This product can be recycled similarly to the entire Interstate range. With its 67.5 lbs, this model is quite heavy affecting its mobility.

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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 their gelly-type electrolyte, AGM batteries feature an ultra-thin glass fiber in-between the plates saturated with liquid electrolyte. Due to the absence of flooded electrolytes 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 F° to 158 F°. 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 for minor cleanup from dust or dirt which can be gradually accumulated with 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 OPTIMA DH6 YELLOWTOP BATTERY is designated for heavy-duty vehicles and capable of supporting an entire range of high-demanding onboard electronics.

The development of modern battery technologies has contributed to the dissemination of professional-grade solutions to residential fields of application. The market of a backup power supply is not excluded. 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. The INTERTSATE DCM0100 would take the lead with its superior deep cycle power.

  • Marine motors, RV, off-grid applications and fish finders. You would appreciate the RENOGY 12 VOLT 100AH DEEP CYCLE AGM BATTERY as a reliable backup energy source.

  • Solar energy storing. The kit of RENOGY 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. In particular, the ODYSSEY PC680 battery is specifically designed for power sport applications.

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

Capacity. It is one of the main parameters which should be obligatory to consider 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. The capacity of AGM products is 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. Renogy has 12 Volt 100AH & 200AH Deep Cycle AGM Batteries.

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 a high reserve capacity in comparison with conventional flooded lead-acid options. Thus, AGM products have on 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. Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery for RV, Solar Marine and Off-grid Applications has the highest rate of 1800 CCA in the class.

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.

Top-8 Best AGM Batteries

1. 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 that supplies renewable and sustainable power sources including solar and electric power batteries, panels, and accessories.

This 12V general-purpose deep cycle battery can be used as a reliable energy backup. It can grant more power by means of the 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 from 5℉ up to122℉.

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
Pros: Cons:
  • High capacity
  • Low discharge rate
  • Wide operating temperature range
  • Versatility
  • Leak-proof design
  • It is not recommended to discharge the battery below 50% to keep its full capacity

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

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2. 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 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 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
Pros: Cons:
  • Durable design
  • High-efficiency solar cells
  • Versatility
  • Lightweight
  • Preassembled
  • Can be used in series
  • Expensive as a kit
  • Mounting systems for a solar panel should be purchased additionally

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

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3. 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
Pros: Cons:
  • High cranking power
  • High reserve capacity
  • Longer lifetime
  • Faster recharging rate
  • Versatile
  • Improved vibration resistance
  • Expensive
  • Heavy

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

OPTIMA BATTERIES DH6: Check the current price

4. 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
Pros: Cons:
  • High cold cranking power
  • High reserve capacity
  • Low inner resistance
  • Durable design
  • Reliable
  • Heavy

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.

ACDELCO 48AGM: Check the current price

5. ODYSSEY PC680 BATTERY EXTREME

Odyssey batteries are manufactured by EnerSys Energy Products Inc., a U.S. company that 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 production facilities located in the U.S., the U.K., and France.

The Odyssey PC680 is a compact and lightweight battery that 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
Pros: Cons:
  • Lightweight
  • High recharging rate
  • Long life cycle
  • Improved resistance to spillages
  • Affordable price 
  • Suitable for light-duty powersport vehicles only
  • Lower capacity

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

ODYSSEY PC680: Check the current price

6. 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 onboard 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
Pros: Cons:
  • High cold cranking power
  • High reserve capacity
  • Durable design
  • Compact
  • 20x vibration resistance of a conventional lead acid battery
  • Due to its compact size it mightn’t fit your vehicle. Always check the dimensions in advance!

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

DELPHI BU9035: Check the current price

7. 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 a 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 a 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
Pros: Cons:
  • High CCA for a sport-grade battery
  • Increased durability
  • Fortified internal components
  • User-friendly
  • Compact
  • Affordable price
  • Restricted scope of applications

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

CHROME BATTERY YTX30L-BS: Check the current price

8. 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 the 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 onboard 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 any 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 a 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
Pros: Cons:
  • One of the highest capacity in its class
  • High deep-cycle power
  • Recyclable
  • Versatile
  • Heavy
  • Low efficiency for vehicle starting

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

INTERSTATE BATTERIES: Check the current price

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 that 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 that could be used as an AGM battery charger and portable power station for other electronics or appliances, check its compatibility beforehand.

For instance, the DEWALT DXAEJ14 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.

8 Best-Selling AGM batteries in the US in 2020: Comparison Table

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Products with a 5-star rating

 

Product5 Stars Votes
Optima OPT8016-103 Batteries D34M BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Marine Battery709(49.6%)
WindyNation 100 amp-Hour 100AH 12V 12 Volt AGM Deep Cycle Sealed Lead Acid Battery - Solar RV UPS Off-Grid (1 pc 100 amp-Hour)239(16.7%)
Renogy Deep Cycle Agm Battery 12 Volt 200AH for RV, Solar, Marine, and Off-Grid Applications, Gray200(14%)
12V 100Ah AGM Sealed Lead Acid Battery UB121000 Group 27123(8.6%)
QTY 2: VMAX SLR125 AGM Sealed Deep Cycle 12V 125Ah batteries for Use with Pv Solar Panels,Smart chargers wind Turbine and Inverters80(5.6%)
Interstate Batteries 12V 110 AH SLA/AGM Deep Cycle Battery for Solar, Wind, and RV Applications - Insert Terminals (DCM0100)79(5.5%)
Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah Solar Wind AGM SLA DEEP Cycle VRLA Battery 12V 24V 48V0(0%)

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