Because of its mobile nature, RV camping is often at the forefront of innovation and technological advancement. Often, the smaller the better for all things in campers. Luxury and performance usually overrides cost. Modern devices require modern power sources, so more and more campers are opting for Lithium batteries over traditional lead-acid batteries, whether 6-volt or 12-volt.
Photo: Battle Born Batteries
Both lithium and lead-acid batteries have their advantages and disadvantages. Camper owners are torn between the established lead-acid and the new lithium batteries. Here is why. Lithium batteries provide more consistent power for a longer duration. Advanced lead-acid batteries may discharge only 60 to 80 percent of their charge. Lithium batteries, which provide 80 percent or more of their charge capacity can recharge quicker than a similar lead-acid RV battery. The charge-lifespan of a lithium battery can reach hundreds of times more than an average lead-acid battery, which can last typically 2 to 5 years. Most lithium RV batteries are expected to last more than a decade. Cost for lithium batteries is higher, but many RV owners see performance and lifespan outweighing cost. Lastly, lithium batteries weigh less, which in a mobile lifestyle can save money on travel expenses in the long run.
Let us say for this piece the debate between which type of battery is better was won by team Lithium. We considered and researched Lithium RV batteries to find the best on the market to recommend. For our decisions we compared battery life, cost, conditions, and customer satisfaction.
GoldenMate 12V 100AH
GoldenMate batteries Are built as safer, longer lasting batteries. Their advanced technology puts them on the top of manufacturers of lithium RV batteries, specializing in LiFePO4 batteries. The 12V 100AH LiFePO4 has a low self-discharge and a proven 100 percent depth of discharge (DoD). With a 10 year, 5,000+ cycle lifespan this 30 lb. battery with a 1280W output is both functional and powerful. Advanced technology includes an LCD screen, which displays battery measurements. Battery information can also be accessed via a GoldenMate app for Apple and Android. The 5-year warranty is among the highest on the lithium battery market.
Battle Born Lithium 100Ah
The makers of Battle Born batteries state their goal is to power the ideal RV experience. The Battle Born line of batteries are built to perform better, last longer, and provide the maximum power when needed. The selection of products available from this US-based company is right for every camper, from weekend adventures or those living a full motorcoach life on the road. Battle Born designed their batteries to serve as replacements for the most common lead acid batteries on the market, so they are available in 12-volt or 24-volt sizes. Customers note Battle Born deep cycle lithium batteries supply up to three times more power and charge up to five times faster than traditional lead-acid battery. Battle Born products come with a 10-year warranty, which is among the highest on the market.
RELiON 12V 20Ah
The smallest and fastest charging 12V 20Ah lithium battery according to customer satisfaction surveys is the RELiON. Powerful and compact, this replacement for the traditional lead-acid battery system is constructed of LiFePO4 technology. Customers state the battery has more power, significantly less weight, and up to 10 times longer usage than a lead-acid counterpart. This style of lithium battery is an environmentally secure choice for uses that would normally drain standard batteries. This battery performs well in extreme weather. The RELiON 12-volt weighs only 5.6 lbs.
AIMS LiFePO4
Campers who spend most of their time in hot climates find the AIMS 12V 100Ah the best bang for their buck. Utilizing LiFePO4 chemistry, the AIMS battery works in a wide range of temperatures, especially in high temperature. Rated to last a whopping 4,000 discharge cycles this unit provides maximum amperage without the worry of damage to the battery. So, let the AC run. A three-year manufacturer defect warranty aids in an estimated 10-year battery life. The AIMS battery comes with minimal self-discharge, weighs 27.5 pounds, and includes a built-in battery management system to protect against short circuits, overheating, overloading, and high or low discharge.
Canbat 12V 100Ah COLD WEATHER
From the great north of Canada comes the Canbat CLI100-12LT, a 12V 100Ah lithium battery specifically designed for cold temperatures. Like many other recommended lithium batteries, the Canbat features LiFePO4 technology and adds M8 ring crimp terminals. This cold-loving battery can be charged at temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F) and an advanced temperature control feature pulls power from the charger making it a self-sustaining system. The Canbat battery can be connected in a series of up to four units of the same model to create a 24V , 36V, or even 48V 100Ah battery. In cold temperatures, the battery management system disconnects from the cells to protect the battery and prior to charging a built-in heating system draws power from the charger to warm up the battery.