What is the difference between Optima Yellow Top versus other deep cycle batteries

[daz]

I have been going through the different type of batteries and suppliers available. During my search I have seen people mention using Optima's Yellow top batteries for RE here on the forum.

My question is, what is the difference between the Yellow Tops compared to other deep cycle batteries? The reason I ask is because the Yellow Top batteries are a lot more expensive compared to other deep cycle batteries.

Do Yellow Tops have such a long/durable lifespan that they charge more? Are they specifically made for RE applications? Or is it just because it is branded Optima?

[Sunking]

Do Yellow Tops have such a long/durable lifespan that they charge more?

No

Are they specifically made for RE applications?

No

Or is it just because it is branded Optima?

Yes


The Yellow Top is a hybrid battery just like the Blue Top. Yellow is sized (physical size and dimensions) to BCI auto sizes, and Blue Top is sized for Marine RV sizes. What sets them apart is the extremely low Internal Resistance which means they can deliver very high C rates of up to 5C. Deep cycle batteries cannot do that without significant voltage sag. The Yellow Top is marketed for autos with large electrical accessories like 1000 watt Ghetto Blaster, Chicano Low Riders with hydraulic jumping bean pumps, or trucks with winches.

[daz]

Thank you for clearing that up for me Dereck! I was a bit confused over it....

The cost for the 55AH 12V Yellow Top here is $400 ($0.60/W), whereas I can get deep cycle batteries for $290 for a 105AH 12V ($0.24/W). Those figures were a direct currency translation, not the best, but the easiest way to show the prices of the batteries here.

The one for $290 is a "US BATTERY" brand, the 105AH 12V, the dealer says it is a true deep cycle battery, but they list it under the heading "utility - deep cycle" (and they list the industry reference for it as a "12v scrubber 27TMX").
I specifically asked if this deep cycle battery is a true deep cycle, and not a hybrid (like golf cart batteries). He confirmed that they were indeed true deep cycle batteries. Should I take the dealer at his word that those are true deep cycle batteries, or is there a way to know if a battery is a true deep cycle for sure?

[Sunking]

The one for $290 is a "US BATTERY" brand, the 105AH 12V, the dealer says it is a true deep cycle battery, but they list it under the heading "utility - deep cycle" (and they list the industry reference for it as a "12v scrubber 27TMX").
I specifically asked if this deep cycle battery is a true deep cycle, and not a hybrid (like golf cart batteries). He confirmed that they were indeed true deep cycle batteries. Should I take the dealer at his word that those are true deep cycle batteries, or is there a way to know if a battery is a true deep cycle for sure?

Don't sweat bullets. USB is a good quality battery. I did not check but look at the warranty. If they give 3 to 5 years you are OK.

[daz]

Thanks Dereck! You have put my mind to rest. I am def leaning towards it now, firstly the cost, and secondly because you reckon that USB is a good brand!

With regards to warranty, 99% of their range only carries a 1 year warranty. The only batteries that they offer 3 years on is their own brand of battery.

Thank you for the advice though. I really appreciate it!

[daz]

Sorry to revive the thread......
Is the US27DCXC a flooded battery? The reason I ask is because I have not physically seen the battery yet....

[FloridaSun]

Sorry to revive the thread......
Is the US27DCXC a flooded battery? The reason I ask is because I have not physically seen the battery yet....

easy to see online, just do a search for US27DCXC
yes, conventional wet cell, FLA marine battery, specs actually give a 20 hour rating (105AH), 1year warranty