Best Deep Cycle RV Battery (AGM, SLA, 12V, 6V) 2025

What Kind Of Deep Cycle Battery Is Actually The Best For RV Use?

If your deep cycle RV batteries won’t hold a charge anymore and it’s time for new ones, you’ve probably noticed there are a ton of options out there.

We currently use the VMAX 100Ah in our RV, but there are a lot of options out there.

12V, 6V, Flooded Lead-Acid, SLA, AGM, GEL, Lithium, LiFePO4, these are all battery types that work in an RV and everyone has an opinion on what type and voltage is best.

While lithium batteries are great, they’re expensive and usually need a special charger that most RVs don’t have, so they’re not for everyone.

If you want something reliable that doesn’t break the bank or require changing parts in your RV, there are plenty of good non-lithium options out there.

In this article, I’ll go over the best non-lithium deep cycle RV batteries, explain their unique features, and help you figure out which one might work best for your camper.

Best Deep Cycle RV Battery Reviews & Info

Newport Heavy Duty SLA Deep Cycle Battery

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My Thoughts

The Newport Heavy Duty SLA battery is a solid budget-friendly choice for RVers who need a compact and dependable power source. With a 50Ah capacity, it works well for short trips, smaller setups, or as part of a battery bank. While it doesn’t provide as much power as larger batteries, it’s enough to keep essential appliances like lights and fans running smoothly.

Its compact size makes it easy to install in tight spaces, and its AGM design means it’s maintenance-free and resistant to vibrations. This makes it a practical option for RVers who travel on rough roads or need a battery that can handle movement without issues. It also holds up well in extreme temperatures, so whether you’re camping in the heat or cold, it stays reliable.

At 30 lbs, it’s not very heavy for an AGM battery, making it easy to install and move around. While it doesn’t have the capacity for long-term off-grid use, it works well as a backup battery or for those who need a dependable, budget-friendly option for shorter trips or lighter power needs.

Universal Power Group 12V 100ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery

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My Thoughts

The Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah AGM battery is a solid choice for dry campers and boondockers who need steady, reliable power for off-grid trips. With 100Ah of capacity, it provides enough energy to run multiple appliances, lights, and small electronics without constant recharging.

This battery is built to handle frequent deep discharges, making it well-suited for RVers who rely on battery power for extended stays. Its AGM design means it’s maintenance-free, spill-proof, and resistant to vibrations, so it can handle rough roads and uneven terrain without issues.

At 64 lbs, it’s on the heavier side, but that extra weight comes with better energy storage and durability. If you need a dependable power source that can handle both hot and cold weather, this battery is a practical option. It may not have the highest cycle life compared to premium models, but for most RVers, it strikes a good balance between performance and affordability.

Renogy AGM Deep-Cycle RV Battery

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My Thoughts

Renogy has earned a solid reputation in the battery and solar industry, and their 12V 100Ah AGM battery is a great example of their quality. This deep-cycle battery provides steady, maintenance-free power, making it a strong choice for RVers who need reliable energy for off-grid camping or backup power.

One of its standout features is the low self-discharge rate of just 3% per month, meaning it holds a charge well even when not in use. This makes it a great option for those who take seasonal trips or need a battery that can sit for extended periods without losing too much power. It’s built to handle rough conditions, including vibrations and extreme temperatures, so whether you’re traveling on bumpy roads or camping in hot or cold climates, it remains dependable.

With a lifespan of 500 to 700 cycles, it’s not the longest-lasting AGM battery on the market, but it’s still a solid option for most RVers who don’t need a high-cycle battery for heavy-duty use. At 64 lbs, it’s manageable for installation, though not the lightest available.

For those who want a trusted brand, durable build, and steady performance, this battery is a reliable choice that holds up well in real-world conditions.

Weize 12V 100Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery

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My Thoughts

The Weize 12V 100Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery is a great balance between affordability and reliability, making it a strong choice for RVers who want dependable power without spending too much. It provides steady energy for running lights, small appliances, and other essentials while camping off-grid.

Weize has built a reputation for making quality batteries at budget-friendly prices, and this one holds up well under normal camping conditions. It’s built to handle deep discharges and frequent recharges, though it may not have the same long cycle life as premium options. Still, for weekend trips or moderate off-grid use, it performs well.

At 63 lbs, it’s relatively lightweight compared to larger AGM batteries, making it easier to install and move if needed. It’s designed to resist vibrations and shocks, which is useful for RVers traveling on rough roads. It also holds up in a wide range of temperatures, so it won’t struggle in extreme heat or cold.

If you’re looking for a solid deep cycle battery that delivers good performance for the price, this is a practical and reliable choice.

Interstate Batteries 110Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery

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My Thoughts

Interstate Batteries is a trusted brand, and the DCM0100 AGM battery continues that reputation with solid performance and durability. With a 110Ah capacity, it provides plenty of power for RVers who camp off-grid and need a steady energy source for running lights, appliances, and other essentials.

This battery is designed for deep cycling, meaning it can handle regular discharges and recharges without losing effectiveness too quickly. While it’s not the cheapest option, the quality and reliability make up for the price. It’s also maintenance-free, so you don’t have to worry about adding water or venting gases.

At 67.5 lbs, it’s lighter than some higher-capacity AGM batteries, making it a good middle-ground between power and portability. It also holds up well against vibration and rough terrain, which is great if you take your RV on bumpy roads. It works in a wide range of temperatures, so whether you’re camping in the cold or heat, it will stay reliable.

If you need a dependable AGM battery that offers a good mix of capacity, durability, and ease of use, this one is a solid pick.

VMAX 12V 125ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery

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My Thoughts

The VMAX 125Ah AGM battery is a great choice for RVers who camp off-grid and need reliable power. It holds a lot of energy and lasts a long time, making it one of the better options for running appliances and electronics without needing to recharge constantly.

This battery is built for heavy use. It can handle many charge cycles without losing power, which is perfect if you boondock often. At 75 lbs, it’s not light, but the extra weight comes with more capacity and durability. It works in all weather and doesn’t need maintenance, so you can install it and forget about it.

Unlike regular lead-acid batteries, you don’t have to worry about adding water or venting gases. It also handles deep discharges better, meaning you can use more of its power before recharging.

ExpertPower 12V 100Ah Gel Deep Cycle Battery

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My Thoughts

The ExpertPower 12V 100Ah Gel Deep Cycle Battery is a solid choice for RVers looking for a maintenance free option with added durability.

Gel batteries are known for their ability to withstand more cycles and higher discharge depths compared to standard AGM batteries, and this model delivers on those promises.

ExpertPower is a trusted brand in the battery industry, providing reliable products at competitive prices. With its spill-proof design and ability to handle tough conditions, this battery is a good pick for both weekend campers and frequent boondockers.

VMAX 6V 225ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery

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My Thoughts

The VMAX 6V 225Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery is a top choice for RVers who prefer the durability and performance of a 6V setup.

VMAX is a highly trusted name in the battery industry, known for their quality and long-lasting products. This battery is designed for deep cycle use, providing plenty of capacity for extended camping trips.

It’s durable enough to handle tough conditions, and its maintenance-free design means you won’t have to worry about topping off water.

While it requires at least two batteries in series to reach 12V, the performance and lifespan make it worth the investment.

If you would like to learn how to wire two 6V batteries together in series for a 12V system like in an RV, check out this article.

Trojan T-105 6V 225Ah Deep Cycle Battery (2-pack)

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My Thoughts

The Trojan T-105 6V battery is one of the most popular options for RVers and off-grid setups because of its proven performance and long lifespan.

Trojan is a well-established name in the battery industry, known for manufacturing high-quality products. The T-105 offers a robust 225Ah capacity and handles frequent deep cycling, making it a favorite among those who boondock or use solar setups.

While it requires regular maintenance to top off the water, this battery is reliable and performs exceptionally well in demanding conditions.

US Battery US2200XC2 6V 232Ah Deep Cycle Battery (2-pack)

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My Thoughts

The US Battery US2200XC2 6V battery is a premium option for RVers who need a reliable, high-capacity power source. With a capacity of 232Ah, it provides even more energy storage than many similar 6V batteries.

US Battery has been a respected name in the industry for decades, and this model withstands frequent deep cycles, making it ideal for off-grid camping and solar setups.

While it requires regular maintenance like most flooded lead-acid batteries, its performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment for serious campers.

Things to Consider When Buying a Deep Cycle RV Battery

• Battery Type – Decide between AGM, Gel, Flooded Lead Acid, or Lithium batteries. AGM and Gel are maintenance free, Flooded Lead Acid requires regular upkeep, and Lithium offers the best performance but at a higher price.
• Voltage – RVs typically use either 12V or 6V batteries. If you choose 6V batteries, you’ll need at least two wired in series to create 12V power. Make sure your setup matches your RV’s requirements.
• Capacity (Amp Hours) – Higher amp hours (Ah) mean more power storage. For boondocking or extended trips, aim for at least 100Ah or more. If you mostly camp with hookups, lower capacity batteries may suffice.
• Battery Lifespan and Cycle Rating – Check the battery’s cycle rating (the number of times it can be charged and discharged). AGM and Gel batteries typically have a higher cycle rating than Flooded Lead Acid, while Lithium lasts the longest.
• Maintenance Requirements – Flooded Lead-Acid batteries need regular water refilling and cleaning. AGM and Gel are maintenance free, making them easier to manage.
• Weight and Size – Make sure the battery will fit in your RV’s storage compartment and that you can handle its weight during installation. Larger batteries often offer more capacity but are heavier and may require extra lifting help.
• Durability – Look for shock and vibration resistance, especially if you travel on bumpy roads. Batteries designed for tough conditions will last longer in an RV setup.
• Budget – Balance your budget with your needs. AGM and Flooded Lead Acid are more affordable, while Gel and Lithium batteries cost more but offer longer lifespans.
• Charging Compatibility – Ensure your RV’s converter/charger is compatible with the type of battery you choose. For example, Lithium batteries often require a specialized charger.
• Intended Use – Consider how you plan to use the battery. For dry camping or boondocking, a high-capacity battery with deep cycling ability is ideal. For occasional trips or camping with hookups, a smaller battery may work.
• Brand Reputation – Stick with trusted brands that have a history of producing reliable and durable batteries. Well-known names often come with better warranties and customer support.

Frequently Asked Questions About Deep Cycle RV Batteries

What is the difference between AGM, Gel, and Flooded Lead-Acid batteries?

• AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) – Maintenance-free, spill-proof, and durable. Handles vibrations well and charges faster than Flooded Lead Acid batteries.
• Gel – Maintenance-free and spill-proof with a longer lifespan and better performance in extreme temperatures, but typically more expensive.
• Flooded Lead Acid – The most affordable but requires regular maintenance (adding water) and can spill if tipped.

What are cranking amps?

Cranking amps are a unit commonly associated with car and marine starting batteries. They are the number of amps a battery can output in 30 seconds at 32°F (0°C).

The higher the cranking amps the better the battery will be at starting a motor in cold weather. Cranking amps aren’t something you need to be worried about for RV batteries.

If you are looking at a deep cycle battery that has the cranking amps listed, chances are it’s a “starting” deep cycle battery and not the best option for RV use.

What is a cycle rating?

The cycle rating tells you how many times a battery can be charged and discharged before losing significant capacity.

AGM and Gel batteries typically have higher cycle ratings than Flooded Lead-Acid batteries, while Lithium batteries last the longest.

What does “ah” stand for?

“Ah” stands for “Amp Hours,” which measures the battery’s capacity. It shows how much power the battery can deliver.

For example, a 100Ah battery can provide 1 amp of power for 100 hours or 10 amps for 10 hours. Higher Ah ratings mean longer run times, especially for boondocking or running multiple appliances.

Can I mix different batteries?

No, mixing different battery types or sizes is not recommended. They have different charging requirements and capacities, which can cause uneven charging and damage the batteries.

Always use the same type, brand, and capacity when combining batteries in a series or parallel connection.

How do I calculate watt hours from amp hours?

To calculate watt hours you multiply the voltage of the battery by the amp hours.

For example, a 12 volt battery with 100 amp hours will have 1,200 watt hours. A 6 volt battery with 100 amp hours will only have 600 watt hours.

Will my RV charger charge Gel and AGM batteries safely?

Gel and AGM batteries need to be charged with a good battery charger so they don’t get damaged.

A battery charger with an AGM or Gel option is the best but most RVs don’t have smart chargers with battery type options in them.

A lot of them have 3 stage chargers that are suitable for AGM batteries.

You should be able to check what kind of charger is in your RV’s converter/charger in the manual.

My 2013 Heartland Prowler has the WFCO WF-8900 Series in it which uses a 3 stage battery charger.

You can’t choose the battery on the charger but because it’s 3 stage, it will not damage the battery too much and I won’t bother changing the charger in it.

If you have an older RV, I recommend replacing the converter/charger.

A good battery charger will not only charge your batteries safer and faster it will also extend the life of them which helps you save in the long run.

How long will my RV batteries run the furnace?

This is an excellent question that deserves a good response.

I made another post about how long an RV battery can run a furnace you can check out here.

Why isn’t my deep cycle RV battery charging?

With RVs, there are tons of things that can go wrong and the battery charger is no exception.

If your RV battery or batteries don’t seem to charge at all even when plugged into power the problem is most likely the batteries themselves.

The first thing you should do is check the terminals.

They need to be clean and securely connected to the RV.

Also, check the ground wire which will be attached to the frame somehow. If the ground wire has come loose, the batteries won’t charge.

Some campers have a battery cut-off switch, check your RV manual to see if you have one or not and if you do make sure it’s not turned off.

If everything looks good, it’s time to test the battery and the RV charger/converter.  For this, you will need an external battery charger.

Unhook your RV from the batteries and attach the charger to one of the RV batteries.

If it charges just fine, then you know the problem is with the RV charger/converter.

The RV converter/charger is usually located under the fuse box. To you need to remove the cover from the converter.

Before doing any of this, make sure all power is disconnected from the RV including the batteries.

Once all the power is off, inspect the wires leading to the converter box to see if anything has come loose.

It’s pretty rare for an RV battery charger/converter to go bad, but anything is possible.

They can be replaced. All you have to do is find the model number and search for the correct replacement part.

One last thing you should think about is the type of batteries you are trying to charge.

Most RV chargers are not designed to charge Lithium-ion batteries. It could be why it’s not working.

If you want to replace the lead-acid batteries in your RV with lithium ones, you will also need to replace the converter/charger.

For WFCO WF-8900 series you can use this Lithium-ion replacement converter/charger (click to view on Amazon).

Note that if you go with lithium RV batteries and you replace the converter/charger you may not switch back to traditional lead-acid batteries later on.

To read more about lithium RV batteries and find out how to charge them, check out this article here (click to view).

Why is my deep cycle RV battery draining?

An RV uses 12 volt power for many appliances in the RV.

Even when it seems like everything is turned off, you may still find that your camper’s house batteries are being drained.

A common misconception is that only the lights and water pump use the 12V power. This isn’t entirely true.

Even when turned to LP gas (propane) mode, the RV fridge will use around 250 watts a day for the thermometers and electric starter.

The water heater also uses electricity even when in gas mode to test the temperature and start the propane.

If it seems like your batteries are draining super fast every day, it could be the batteries are damaged and not holding a full charge anymore.

Draining deep-cycle lead-acid RV batteries past 50% will damage them and your batteries won’t hold a full charge.

Temperature is also another draining factor. In cold weather, batteries will not be as efficient and you may lose more power when using 12V appliances in your RV.

Why is my deep cycle RV battery boiling?

If you are getting a strong rotten egg smell from your RV batteries or you notice vapor coming out of them, you may have boiling batteries.

Boiling batteries only happen when the battery is receiving a charge of some kind.

If your RV batteries are boiling, unplug your RV from shore power or disconnect the charger if you have one attached.

Wait until the acid has calmed down before opening up the battery.

Wear gloves and old clothes as battery acid is very corrosive and will damage any clothing it touches. It’s also dangerous on your skin, so be careful.

Flooded lead-acid batteries need to be checked and topped off with distilled water regularly.

If your battery is boiling when being charged by your RV, the most likely cause is low water.

Top off each cell with distilled water and plug the battery in again.

If this hasn’t fixed the problem and the battery still boils, you probably have a bad cell that was damaged from the lack of water and the battery will need to be replaced.

Where should I store my deep cycle RV battery in the winter?

An RV battery should be stored indoors during the winter.

There are different opinions about whether or not you should store an RV battery directly on cement. Some say it drains them, others say it doesn’t matter.

To be safe I always place the battery on cardboard or a few pieces of wood.

An important thing when storing an RV battery is to make sure it stays charged all winter long.

Don’t just hook it up to a trickle charger because overcharging can be just as damaging as letting a battery go dead.

For winter storage you should use a smart charger like any of these (click to view post on best battery chargers).

Smart chargers will not let your batteries overcharge and some even have a repair mode that will work to remove sulfuric crystal buildup and repair the battery.

When should I replace an RV battery?

Batteries go bad over time and they may get damaged faster if you often let them go below a 50% charge.

If your camper batteries are no longer holding a charge you can try using a repair mode on a smart charger.

It will boil the battery and remove the sulfur crystal buildup that has damaged your battery.

If this doesn’t work, it’s time to get a new one.

How long does a deep cycle RV battery last?

The life of an RV battery depends on the kind it is, how well you maintain it, and how often it goes below the charge that will damage it.

Traditional flooded lead-acid batteries are the most work to maintain and often go bad faster than sealed lead-acid batteries like AGM or gel batteries.

That being said, a well maintained flooded lead-acid battery that isn’t allowed to go below 50% charge should last for years and years.

One that isn’t taken care of may only last as little as 1-2 years.

AGM and gel batteries require no maintenance but they’re still being damaged a bit each time they’re discharged.

The deeper the discharge is, the more severe the damage is.

Some companies boast their deep cycle batteries can last up to 10 years when kept at a full charge.

Which means you should get around 7 years of life from them if you don’t allow them to go below 50%.

To make an AGM or Gel battery last even longer, I suggest getting a battery charger that has an AGM or GEL battery mode so it’s being charged the correct way.

(click here to view a post on best smart deep cycle battery chargers).

If you discharge an AGM battery down to 20%, the most important thing you can do is to quickly get it charged up again.

Lithium-ion batteries will last the longest even when being discharged to as low as 20-30% which is why they are so popular with solar and off-grid set-ups.

If you want lithium-ion batteries for your RV, make sure you change the RV charger/converter because an incorrectly charged lithium-ion battery will be damaged.

You can check out the best options for RV lithium batteries and read more about how to charge them here (click to go to article).

How to charge a deep cycle RV battery from a vehicle?

When you plug your trailer into your vehicle it will automatically start charging. To charge efficiently, the vehicle needs to be running.

How to charge an RV battery with a generator?

If you plug your RV into a generator the batteries will automatically start charging through the RV’s converter/charger.

(Click here to view an article on how to plug an RV into a generator)

If you have an external battery charger you can plug it into the generator and charge your RV battery this way.

Can an RV battery freeze?

Yes, an RV battery can freeze at 32°F if it’s fully discharged.

That’s why if you are expecting cold weather you should make sure your batteries stay above a 50% charge.

If extremely cold weather is in the forecast, keep your RV batteries fully charged.

That being said, even fully charged batteries will freeze at -76°F.

Luckily, that’s not camping weather and not a very common temperature for places other than Antarctica and sometimes Alaska.

If your batteries are frozen, make sure you let them thaw before trying to charge them again.

Some people say that a battery that has been frozen should be replaced because it damages them and it may not be dependable anymore.

If you have lithium-ion batteries, you should never try to charge them in temperatures below 41°F.

Can an RV AC run off the battery?

The short answer is no.

A regular RV battery set-up can not run the RV AC.

There are things you can do to make it possible to run an RV AC off of batteries, but you need a powerful inverter and lots of battery and solar power to back it up.

There are, however, portable generators that are powerful enough to run an RV AC. You can check out the best ones in this article here.

Can you use a deep cycle RV battery in a car?

A true deep-cycle RV battery cannot deliver enough power to start a car.

That being said, some hybrid deep-cycle marine batteries are made to start boat engines. You may get one of these to start a car, but it’s not recommended.

Can you overcharge an RV battery?

Yes, you can overcharge an RV battery.

If you plug your RV battery into a single or even a dual-stage battery charger and leave it over the winter, it will start overcharging the battery, which will damage it.

Today most people use 3 and even 4 stage smart chargers to keep their RV batteries charged over the winter.

These kinds of battery chargers know when to stop and when to start again so the battery doesn’t get damaged. (click to view post on best smart battery chargers)

Many new RVs have smart 3 stage battery chargers in them, so you won’t overcharge your RV batteries when plugged into shore power for a long time.

Older RVs may not have this.

To see what kind of battery charger is in your RV, check the converter’s manual.

If you have a very old RV, it may be a good idea to replace the converter/charger anyway since battery charging technology has come a long way over the years.

Also, if you are switching from lead-acid batteries to lithium-ion, you will need the change the converter in your RV.

Most do not come with chargers that can charge lithium-ion RV batteries.

How long will a deep cycle RV battery last when boondocking?

When boondocking or dry camping, the time the RV batteries will last entirely depends on how many amp hours each battery can hold and how much power you will be using.

Remember, even the RV fridge will use power when on LP gas mode, and lights can drain a battery even if they are LED.

When boondocking for the first time, keep a close eye on your battery so you get a good idea of how long it will last.

You probably will end up using more power than you think and will need to charge your batteries almost every day.

To charge your RV batteries when boondocking you can use a generator (click to view post on best inverter generators), solar panels (click to view post on best solar panels that will charge RV batteries), and even electric power stations (click to view post on best electric power stations).

Have any more questions about deep cycle RV batteries or AGM batteries? Leave a comment below.