Looking for the best AGM battery for car audio can be a daunting task but thanks to this review and buying guide, you are that much closer to getting that car audio battery. With brands such as XS Power, Kinetik and Stinger, your options just got better.
While there are endless car audio batteries flooding the market, you need to go for the best AGM batteries for your car audio. A car audio battery using the Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) technology really is the smatter choice because durability is assured.
This technology revolutionizes the battery world in that it has created more surface area that is able to hold enough electrolytes on the cells basically for their entire lifespan.
Unlike most batteries that use gel or liquid electrolyte between the plates, absorbent glass mats made of boron silicate are used. Most batteries using this technology are recombinant meaning that recombination of oxygen and hydrogen happen inside the battery.
What all that basically means is that the AGM battery you’ll be buying is sealed and can therefore be mounted in any position without the constant fear of leaks.
Let’s have a look at some of the best AGM batteries the market has to offer:
Comparison Table
[content-egg module=Amazon template=list]
Best AGM Battery for Car Audio
XS Power D3400
- 12 Volt Battery With Ca: 1000, Ah: 65
- Absorbed Glass Mat (Electrolyte Is Suspended In Fiberglass)
- Spill Proof, Sealed, Valve Regulated And Vibration Resistant
- Ultra Low Internal Resistance, Mount In Almost Any Position
Last update on 2023-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
XS Power are quite known for their audio batteries made for cars and resonate more with enthusiasts who are all about versatility and top notch performance. This high output battery can be used for various applications such as an RV or boat, but most prefer to use it for the car’s audio systems.
The XS D3400 uses Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) to provide the power cell with the highest possible energy density resulted from an acid electrolyte. It is able to power high performing engines since it has a max output of 3300 Amps and 1,000 cranking Amps.
It is reinforced with an ABS plastic case and has a discharge capacity of 65 amp-hours which is great because it stores energy so you won’t need a capacitor. The Advanced Battery Systems (ABS) plastic casing is extremely essential as it creates resistance to extreme heat as well as vibrations. Added to this, it has a leak-proof design which allows you mount it either in a glove compartment, under a seat, etc., without any fear of leaks. This battery is the best audio battery for any systems between 2500 – 3500W.
The D3400 is a good option for use as an upgrade to your car audio system or as a replacement for your old one. It is however an expensive option and the weight as well is something be considered as it is heavier than most batteries. These are not really setbacks because sometimes you need to pay extra for prime quality and the XS D3400 does deliver.
Pros
- 12-volt deep-cycling design allows you to use it as a replacement or an extra source of power
- AGM design and ABS plastic casting makes battery durable
- Can be used with BCI Group 34 vehicles
- Resist vibrations and extreme heat
- Ultra low internal resistance
- Leak-proof design
- Can power high-performance audio systems
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Pricy
- Heavy; 46 pounds
View price on Amazon
Universal UB121000-45978
- UB121000 SLA is a 12V 100AH Group 30H Sealed Lead Acid...
- The spill-proof SLA/AGM battery features high discharge...
- Rechargeable battery that can be mounted in any position,...
- UPG #45978 UB121000
Last update on 2023-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Universal battery is a good performer surpassing lead-acid batteries in almost every way. With the AGM technology, this Universal battery has better performance as well as better and quicker recharging minimizing maintenance required.
It is a fairly easy battery to have as you just plug it in and play. As soon as it’s done charging, then you just need to connect it and that’s about it. For a complete charge when charging at 10 Amps, it will take you approximately 12 hours. The good news is that you don’t require to charge it frequently thanks to its low monthly self-discharge.
It is a spill proof battery allowing you to mount it anywhere without the fear or dangerous spills. This Universal battery is a great choice because it does resist vibrations, shock and is reliable under extreme heat so it does makes for a good contender.
The main drawback with the Universal UB121000-45978 is its weight. Its approximate weight is 64 pounds which creates a bit of a pickle when it comes to mounting it. For this reason, it doesn’t make for the most ideal car audio battery choice.
Pros
- Spill proof
- Reliable in extreme heat
- Shock and vibration resistant
- Low maintenance and efficient
- Great deep-cycling batteries
Cons
- Large and heavy at 64 pounds
View price on Amazon
Kinetik HC600
- 12 Volt High Current Car Audio Power Cell
- Sealed absorbed glass mat (AGM) design
- Can be used as a replacement for your vehicles standard...
- Can also be used as an additional battery to power your...
- Perfect for 600 Watt car audio stereo systems
Last update on 2023-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Kinetik HC600 AGM battery is a great affordable option that is maintenance free as well as being 100% sealed. It is best used for 600W audio systems and has been specifically designed for use as an additional battery for the high performance audio systems. However, most people use it as an extra source of power.
Just because this battery is a cheaper option doesn’t mean it slacks off. It is a performer and is able to withstand extreme heat and vibrations. It saves your battery and at the same time enhances your audio systems and generally this can be a good replacement for your normal car battery.
The Kinetik HC600 has a non-spill design allowing you to mount it in any position without any spill fears. It also has been made with durable construction so this adds onto the peace of mind knowing you can mount it anyhow and the battery won’t incur any damages.
It has an ultra-low Equivalent Series Resistance (ESR) and cells that are tightly packed to allow for higher voltage experienced under load conditions. Added to this, it contains more plates important for superior energy density and all these combined makes the battery your definite go-to if you have a modest-sized system.
Pros
- Vibration resistant
- Endure extreme heat
- A high performer with durable construction
- Mounted in any position
- Affordable
- Requires no capacitors
- Deep cycle battery
Cons
- Not suitable for high powered systems
- Replacing your current battery will require purchase of additional equipment
View price on Amazon
Stinger SPV69C
- 12V Power Series Dry Cell Battery
- Sealed absorbed glass mat (AGM) design
- Can be used as a replacement for your vehicles standard...
- Can also be used as an additional battery to power your...
- Leak-Proof, non-hazardous design / 100% Sealed and...
Last update on 2023-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Stinger SPV69C is 100% sealed preventing any hazardous spills. It has an AGM design which combined with the removable brass battery posts, it allows installation of the battery in really any factory battery positions. It is a mid-range battery designed for varying audio systems from moderate to high performance systems.
This Stinger is perfect for systems with up to 1320W with some ratings placing it at up to 2000W. More to this, it has a rating of 660 cranking Amps and can manage discharge cycles of over 300. All this simply means that you will not require a capacitor as it can store energy.
If you happen to have ring-shaped terminals, the Stinger will be a good choice because it does accept ring terminals so you need not worry. You can comfortably use this battery use this battery as a starter battery or use it to power your audio system separately.
The Stinger APV69C is perfect for replacement of Group Sizes 34/34M/78 as well as Group 51 vehicles. It weighs 46.53lbs.
Pros
- Discharge cycles of over 300
- Compatible with ring-shaped terminals
- Mount in any position
- Spill-proof design
- No capacitor needed
- Corrosion-free construction material
Cons
- Not suitable with high powered audio systems
View price on Amazon
Kinetik HC600-BLU
- BLU Series
- Black Case with Blue Logo
- 800 Watt Maximum Power Cell
- Perfect for 800W car audio stereo systems
- 12V High Current Car Audio Power Cell
Last update on 2023-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you’re looking for a high performance battery, this might be it for you. The Kinetik HC600-BLU uses AGM technology and the spill proof design which make up for the small but highly powerful battery. It comes with cranking Amps of up to 600 as well as an 18Ah that make this battery a great battery for audio systems under 600W.
The battery has a durable housing with no external vents that allows for mounting of the battery without the fear of leaks which makes it a maintenance free battery. Added to this the Kinetik Blu has a reinforced ABS plastic casing able to withstand extreme heat as well as vibrations. What this essentially means is that it can replace the original equipment manufacturer battery with this battery.
It has a really low ESR and for stronger energy density, it comes with more plates. The design of this Kinetik Blu battery is that it can be mounted in basically any factory battery location. A plus of buying the battery is that it comes as a pair meaning you get two batteries. Despite this, the Kinetik Blu is not suitable for high-powered stereo audio systems.
Pros
- Reinforces durable plastic construction
- Leak proof design
- Mountable in any position
- Perfect for systems up to 600W
- Competitively priced
- Two batteries can be used to power moderately sized audio systems
Cons
- Not suitable for high-end audio systems
- For primary use of the battery, you require extra equipment
- Might require more room to fit the two batteries
View price on Amazon
DieHard 38188
- 20X more vibration protection safeguards battery performance...
- BCI Gp 34R, CCA 775, RC 120 minutes, 55 AH rating
- Spill proof design provides added protection for...
- Optimized power full-frame positive and negative plates...
- Enhanced electrolyte suspension system absorbs more...
Last update on 2023-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The DieHard 38188 battery solves the dilemma for those who have been looking for a high performance as well as maintenance free battery. The DieHard battery is engineered with AGM technology as well as a leak-proof design to prevent dangerous leaks and allowing the battery to mount in any position.
The cranking Amps are rated at 775 with a discharge capacity of 55Ah allowing it quickly charge more electronics for a longer period of time. It’s ability to withstand extreme heat is quite high which in essence prolongs the life span of the battery.
This DieHard battery comes with highly optimized with full-frame positive as well as negative plates responsible for avoiding shorts that rob the battery’s life. It also has more than 20 more efficient vibration safeguards as compared to most conventional lead-acid batteries.
It’s a battery that can be used for a wide range of applications and is pocket friendly.
Pros
- Leak proof design
- Durable battery
- Pocket-friendly price
- Optimized full-frame +ve and -ve plates
Cons
- It is heavy
- Difficult to fit in some cars
View price on Amazon
Optima Batteries 8014-045 YellowTop
- 12-Volt, 750 Cold Cranking Amps, Size: 10" x 6 7/8" x 7...
- Reserve capacity of 120 minutes for constant performance
- Optimal starting power even in bad weather. Case Material:...
- Fifteen times more resistant to vibration for durability....
- This item is not for sale in Catalina Island
Last update on 2023-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Optima YellowTop is a great dual purpose battery that might not look that serious but that actually means business as it designed for heavy load vehicles. It can be used to start your car as well as power your audio system. It has a cold cranking amperage of up to 750 so if you’ve got a lot of electrical applications, you need not worry as the battery’s performance will not be affected.
It has a reserve capacity of 120 minutes and has a deep cycle suitable for discharge cycles of up to 300. The low self-discharge rate is conducive for seasonal use and horrible weather. At 43.5 pounds, it has a SpiralCell design which basically provides you and the environment, a friendly source of power.
You can use the Optima YellowTop battery as a replacement for your current battery or are looking for a bigger battery to meet the high power demands. The only drawback to this battery is that it is bulky but if you have the space, then this would be the ideal car audio battery.
Pros
- Reserve capacity of 120 minutes
- Leak proof and maintenance free
- Vibration resistant
- Polypropylene casing for durability
- Electrical accessories can be used even when the car is parked
- Can be mounted in any position
- Great cranking power and quick recharging
Cons
- Bulky
View price on Amazon
Shuriken SK-BT35
- 800 Watts
- 35 AMP Hours
- AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) Technology
- 12V Reserve Power Cell
- Compact size
Last update on 2023-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Shuriken SK BT53 like all other batteries on this list, uses AMG technology and its casing is of reinforced ABS plastic making it able to withstand extreme heat and vibrations and can be mounted in any position.
It can be used as a replacement for your current battery or can be used as an extra source of power for high performance aftermarket systems. The Shuriken SK-BT35 battery is best used for audio systems with 800W and has an essential spill-free design. This means that it can fit easily in majority of the factory battery locations without worrying about hazardous spills.
This battery is quite small and lightweight and it comes with very closely packet lead plates as well as an ultra-low ESR. It has cranking amps of up to 950 and the installation is quite easy making it an ideal battery for most users with limited space.
Pros
- Mounted in any position
- Leak proof design
- Small and lightweight
- Affordable battery
- Extreme heat and vibration resistant
Cons
- Not suitable for audio systems over 800W
View Price on Amazon
Buyer’s Guide
When going to buy a car audio battery, there are some factors that you need to consider so as to get a long lasting battery that will give you no troubles whatsoever. Here are a few things to look out for:
Reserve Capacity and Cold Cranking Amps
The ability of the battery to be able to power an audio system in low temperatures is what is referred to as the Cold Cranking Amps. The CCA on the battery should definitely match the amount of watts being produced.
You want to look out for higher CCA numbers for higher power production that will be able to withstand the load. The Cold Cranking Amps and Reserve Capacity should be top of the list on things to look for.
Size and Fitting
As we’ve seen in the different batteries, they come in different sizes. You therefore, you need to get a battery that will properly fit in the tray provided for the tray.
To know how to check the dimensions, check your user manual being precise about the dimensions and positioning of the terminals. The car audio battery works the same as your car battery meaning that any looseness will result in vibrations which eventually damage the battery.
Age of the Battery
This is a tricky bit that many tend to overlook and in return get ‘mediocre’ products. Once a battery has been manufactured, it starts to depreciate so to speak as it loses its power when not in use. When you’re going to buy your battery, make sure that it hasn’t been standing for more than six months.
In case you’re wondering how to know the standing period when buying the product, look at the shipping code that you’ll find on the case. When buying the product online, the same applies. After buying a new battery, make sure you recycle the old one since many retails do help you in disposing of older batteries.
Battery Care and Maintenance
Care and maintenance of your battery is really dependent on what kind of battery you have i.e. is it sealed or unsealed? For sealed batteries, no maintenance whatsoever is required and are replaced in the case that they do get damaged. For unsealed batteries on the other hand, water might be added occasionally until the batteries are in need of replacement.
Price
When it comes to pricing of batteries, it is dependent on the two types of batteries: dry cells and wet cells. Dry cell units are more expensive than their counterparts the wet cell units because they tend to be more durable.
Wet cell units on the other hand power stereo systems faster than the dry cells so eventually the price will be determined by your preference between the two types.
Warranty
When buying any commodity really, you need to look into getting the longest warranty available and the same applies when shopping for a new audio battery. Usually the free replacement tends to be between 24 months with a prorated guarantee of 84 months.
Things that could easily make void your warranty are improper installation and low water levels.
FAQs
Below are responses to a few of the frequently asked questions.
What is a car battery made of?
Car batteries are a combination of lead and acid formulations with 30% being sulfuric acid and the remaining 70% water base.
What is the difference between a cycle and lifespan of a battery?
The difference boils down to the rate of discharge and recharge when in use. The lifespan is dependent on how deep the cells are cycled every time. If for example, a battery discharges at 40% daily, it will last longer than one being cycled at say, 70% so the lower the discharging percentage on a daily, the longer lifespan the battery will have.
What is the approximate lifespan of an audio car battery?
The approximate lifespan of most cars is approximately three years but the standard AGM deep-cycle battery tends to outlive this mark as it has a lifespan of 6 – 8 years.
Conclusion
Getting the best AGM battery for your car audio is clearly just as important as it is getting your car battery. Performance, extreme heat withstanding and so much more has to be put into consideration and for this reason our top pick is the XS Power D3400 for it checks out on all points. Hopefully this article takes you closer to getting your perfect audio car battery.
