Weight is an important factor with anything you plan to put on your boat. The weight of your marine battery can mean the difference in the amount of gear or passengers you can haul, and it can also influence how well your boat handles in the water.
The math is simple: if you have a small boat, you will want a lightweight battery. But you’ll also want to make sure you get a battery that performs as well as the heavier marine batteries on the market.
Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries may provide the solution you’re looking for.
These batteries are lightweight and highly practical, with the ability to charge more quickly, last longer between charges, and give you many more charge-discharge cycles than the average marine battery.
This article will review and discuss the best lightweight LiFePO4 batteries on the market.
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Table of Contents
Lightweight Marine Battery Reviews
1. Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
- Up to a Decade of Use - Enjoy superb return on your investment with this heavy duty 100Ah 12V LiFePO4 battery! This 100Ah 12V lithium battery lasts 3,000 - 5,000 deep discharge cycles, providing up to...
- Built for Rugged Adventures - Our fast-charging LiFePO4 100Ah 12V batteries are the perfect camper, van, boat, trolling motor, and lithium RV battery. Battle Born Batteries are also made to power...
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This premium lithium battery comes from Battle Born Batteries, a U.S.-based company. All of Battle Born’s batteries are made and distributed from the United States. They produce top-quality products and are willing to back them up with industry-leading warranties.
This 12V, 100 Ah battery is large–it comes in at nearly 13 inches long, 7 inches wide, and 9 inches tall. And yet it weighs just 29 pounds–a fraction of what similarly-sized lead-acid batteries weigh.
According to the product description on Amazon, “At only 29 lb, it packs the power of a 140 lb lead acid battery and lasts 10 times longer.” It is rated for 3,000 to 5,000 charge-discharge cycles and recharges much more quickly than lead-acid batteries.
The battery comes with a 10-year warranty.
This battery can be mounted in any position; you don’t have to worry about it leaking battery fluid because it doesn’t use battery fluid. In fact, this battery is constructed using environmentally-friendly materials that are completely safe and non-toxic.
Some of this battery’s features include a reliable BMS system that prevents it from over- and under-charging, short circuiting, and sustaining other damage; and a continuous output of 100 amps and an amp surge output of 200 amps, which gives you plenty of power for all your needs.
This is an exceptional choice if you’re looking for a top-quality battery and are willing to pay a top-tier price to get it. Its main drawback is the price, which is rather expensive for a deep cycle battery.
What we like
- This battery is top-quality and is backed up with a 10-year warranty.
- It is rated for 3,000 to 5,000 cycles.
- It is environmentally friendly and non-toxic.
What we don’t like
- This battery is expensive compared with other lithium batteries.
2. Ampere Time LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
- Grade A+ LiFePO4 Battery: LiTime 12V100Ah BCI Group 31 LiFePO4 Lithium batteries have exceptional quality since they are manufactured by Grade A+ Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) Cells with higher...
- 10 Years Lifetime: LiTime 12.8V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery provides 4000~15000 cycles (10 times longer) 4000 Time Cycles at 100% DOD, 6000 Time Cycles at 80% DOD, 15000 Time Cycles at 60% DOD & a 10-year...
Last update on 2024-11-23 at 06:07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This versatile battery comes in many different voltage and amp hour options. The standard 12V, 100 Ah option is significantly less expensive than the Battle Born battery reviewed above, but aside from the price it is very similar.
This battery weighs a little less than the Battle Born battery, weighing in at just over 24 pounds. Its dimensions are nearly the same, measuring roughly 13 by 7 by 9 inches. It is made of automotive-grade materials for durability but is waterproof so it will work for marine uses.
This battery also comes with a 10-year warranty, as it is rated for 4,000 or more charge-discharge cycles over the course of its life. This battery can be discharged up to 95 percent before it begins to lose voltage, so it gives you exceptional run times between charges.
Some of its features include the built-in BMS system which protects it from damage and incorrect charging; and its wide temperature range both for charging and operating.
This is a great battery option for anyone who doesn’t want to pay the big bucks for a lithium battery but is still looking to get a dependable product.
Some customers have stated that these batteries don’t seem to last as long as advertised and that “you get what you pay for.” That said, other customers have had excellent results with this battery. If you plan to give it a try, don’t forget about the warranty if you run into any problems.
What we like
- This battery comes in many different volt and amp-hour options.
- It is rated for 4,000 to 8,000 cycles.
- It comes with a 10-year warranty.
What we don’t like
- It seems to have a relatively low-quality design.
3. Miady LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
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This battery from the Miady brand is small in every way–price, amp hour rating, and size. It is an excellent budget option if you’re looking to try lithium batteries for the first time or don’t need a whole lot of power.
This 12V battery has an amp hour rating of 20, so it may not be sufficient for large, powerful trolling motors or for running multiple electrical systems for long periods.
That said, it is the most lightweight option on this list. It weighs just under 4 pounds and is roughly 6 by 4 by 4 inches in diameter. It is rated for 2,000 charge-discharge cycles and can be fully discharged without sustaining any damage.
Like other lithium batteries, it has a long lifespan, a quick recharge rate, a wide operating temperature range, and can be mounted in any position.
This battery comes with an 18-month warranty.
Some of the battery’s key features include its tough ABS construction, which helps it resist damage from shocks and vibrations; and it’s no-slip rubber casing, which makes it easy to grip as you carry it.
This battery is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a small battery for a small boat, or for anyone who wants to give lithium a try without investing a significant chunk of change.
Some users have stated that it stops recharging after several uses and that it doesn’t provide the advertised output.
What we like
- This battery is inexpensive.
- It is extremely small and lightweight.
- It is durable for a battery in its price range.
What we don’t like
- This battery may experience problems with recharging as it ages.
4. ECO-WORTHY LiFePO4 Battery
- [Mini Size & Light Weight] ECO-WORTHY 12V 100Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery's size is only 3/4 of other LiFePO4 battery, 2/3 of lead-acid battery, which makes it more convenient to carry. Variety...
- [Up to 15000+ Cycles] ECO-WORTHY 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery can reach 3000~15000 deep cycles, which is equivalent to 6 lead-acid batteries
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This battery from the ECO-WORTHY brand is one of the most lightweight for its size. It is another excellent battery that comes in different options, ranging from 50 to 200 amp hours, so you can choose the size that best fits your needs and budget.
The 12V, 100 amp-hour battery weighs just 23 pounds. Its dimensions are roughly 10 inches by 7 inches by 8 inches.
This battery boasts a lifespan of at least 10 years and 3,000 charge-discharge cycles. It recharges extremely quickly, as it can reach a capacity of 80 percent after just one hour of charging.
The design of the battery makes it easy to carry, and it can be mounted in any direction without fear of spills or damage.
Some of this battery’s key features include its exceptionally lightweight, quick charging times, and its ability to be wired in series and in parallel for even greater power.
This is an excellent battery for inflatable boats, or for anyone who needs a higher amp hour capacity in the most lightweight package possible.
Some users have reported that these batteries have a lower-than-advertised capacity out of the box, so you may want to test your new battery before using it if you need to return it.
What we like
- This battery is exceptionally lightweight for its size.
- It recharges more quickly than other comparable batteries.
- It comes in different amp-hour options.
What we don’t like
- This battery may have a lower-than-advertised power capacity even when it’s brand new.
5. LOSSIGY LiFePO4 Battery
- High Quality Cells: LOSSIGY lithium iron phosphate batteries are manufactured of A-grade cells with higher energy density, more stable performance&greater power. Highest-level safety based on UL...
- 10-Year Lifespan: LOSSIGY Lifepo4 battery provides at least 4000 charge discharge cycles. The built-in BMS effectively protects the electric core from damage caused by high temperature, low...
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This battery comes from the LOSSIGY brand, another trusted name in marine batteries. This battery combines lightweight, hassle-free user-friendliness with dependability to give you a high-quality product.
This 12V battery comes in various amp-hour ratings ranging from 8 to 400 amp hours. It also comes in a 24V, 100 Ah option. With all these choices, you’re sure to find one that will fit your needs and your budget.
The 12V, 100 Ah battery weighs 25 pounds and has dimensions of roughly 10 by 7 by 8 inches. It packs a powerful punch in a moderately small box, making it a good choice for anyone concerned about taking up a lot of space in their boat.
Like other lithium batteries, it can be mounted in any position and has a long lifespan. It is rated for 4,000 to 7,000 charge-discharge cycles and up to 10 years. It comes with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty.
This battery is completely non-toxic, contains no heavy metals, and produces no pollution. There is no risk of burning or exploding from overcharging, and the built-in BMS system helps to prevent problems with over- and under-charging.
Some of the battery’s key features include its high-temperature cutoff function, which prevents the battery from overheating; and its ability to be wired in series and parallel for greater capacity and voltage.
This is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a solid, safe, and relatively inexpensive battery, as well as anyone who wants to have options in terms of battery capacity and voltage.
Some customers have stated that these batteries tend to lose their charge even when they are not being used, as their voltage may drop by tenths even with no load.
What we like
- This battery comes in a variety of capacities as well as both 12V and 24V options.
- It is non-toxic and completely safe to use.
- It comes with a 5-year warranty.
What we don’t like
- It may slowly lose its charge even without a load.
Lightweight Marine Battery Buyer’s Guide
Now that we’ve reviewed some of the top lightweight batteries on the market, you probably noticed something: many of the batteries seem quite similar to each other. How can you know which one is right for you?
In this section, we’ll discuss some of the factors to consider when narrowing the options from five batteries down to the one you choose. Using this buyer’s guide, you’ll be able to determine the best lightweight battery for your specific needs.
Weight and Dimensions
Obviously, one of the most important things to consider is the battery’s size. If you’re looking for a lightweight marine battery, then you probably have a small or lightweight boat to use it on.
With any boat, even a small amount of added weight can make a difference in how well the boat handles. With small and lightweight boats, the weight of your batteries can mean the difference in how much gear or how many passengers you can carry.
As you probably noticed, most of the batteries in this article had a similar weight. That said, for the smallest boats, such as kayaks, you may want to choose the 4-pound, 20 Ah battery.
On the other hand, you may want to choose the 29-pound, 100 Ah Battle Born option for somewhat larger or more expensive boats.
It’s also important to consider the battery’s dimensions. Some boats, especially smaller ones, have very little space for batteries. Depending on the size of your boat or its battery compartment (if it has one), you may want to choose a smaller battery that will fit better.
Lifespan
All lightweight lithium batteries claim to have an exceptional lifespan. Considering the extra price you pay for lithium, you should expect the battery to last proportionally longer than other types of batteries.
Keep in mind, though, that not all lithium batteries are created equally. If you find a battery claiming to last for 6,000 to 8,000 cycles, then you can expect it to cost you a pretty penny.
Cheaper is not necessarily better, especially when it comes to lithium batteries. Make sure to do your research beforehand so you can choose a durable, well-made battery. You will pay more for lithium batteries, even if you buy a “cheap” one; but cheap ones won’t last as long.
If possible, it’s best to choose a battery from a reputable brand, and that comes with an extended warranty. The battery manufacturer needs to be willing to back up its claims about the battery’s lifespan.
Remember, lithium batteries should easily last 8 to 10 years, if not longer, depending on how much they are used. Do not settle for anything less.
BMS System
The best batteries have a battery management system (BMS) built into them. This BMS system regulates the amount of charge going into a battery while it’s charging, as well as the amount going out when it is being used.
An effective battery management system will prevent batteries from overcharging and undercharging; will prevent short circuiting; will reduce or eliminate the chance for fires and explosions related to battery failure; and will prevent other damage to the battery.
Battery management systems are a necessary safety feature of any lithium battery; when choosing your battery, make sure it has a BMS system built-in.
Design and Materials
As mentioned above, not all lithium batteries are created equally. Two batteries that appear similar or even identical on the surface could have a completely different design on the inside.
Of course, that’s not to say you need to open up any battery you’re considering to see how it’s built on the inside. But it is a good idea to find out what materials were used in its construction.
The materials used can give you clues as to how much the manufacturer cares about the quality of their products. Batteries made in the U.S., designed with automotive-grade and waterproof designations, will also give you a better idea about how well a battery might be built.
Price
We’ve already talked a little bit about the price of lightweight batteries, but it’s worth discussing again. There is no such thing as a “cheap” lithium battery, so it’s important to keep this in mind while you’re shopping around.
You don’t necessarily have to buy the most expensive lithium battery you can find, but you definitely don’t want to settle for the cheapest one either. Try to find one somewhere in the middle–one that has received good reviews and appears well-built.
Conclusion
Overall, the best lightweight marine battery on the market is the Battle Born LiFePO4 battery because of its high-quality construction, its dependability, and its industry-leading 10-year warranty. The most lightweight and best budget option is the Miady LiFePO4 battery.
Hopefully, after reading this article, you’ll have a better idea of the different lightweight batteries available and will be able to make an informed decision about which one will work best for you.
Happy fishing!
Last update on 2024-11-22 at 23:07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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