Best Winch Batteries – 2021 Comprehensive Review

| Last Updated: October 20, 2022

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Getting a perfect battery for your winch can be a frustrating task. Whether you commute on your vehicle or use it for regular off-road trips, you must choose the best winch battery to serve you in sticky situations.

However, with a range of options on the market, which battery should you go with? We're here to help you out.

Make your way through this article in order to get complete information about the best products on the market to help you decide on the right one for you!

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • 100 minutes reserve capacity to serve for long
  • 12-volt battery to support heavy-duty winches
  • Best overall battery for its robust design and impressive features
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  • Runner-up for its built-to-last design
  • 12-volt battery to effectively run your winch
  • Reserve time of 120 minutes to serve for a long time
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  • 12-volt battery to operate winches
  • Reserve capacity of 133 minutes that is meant to last
  • Considered as the best for the money for its affordable price with amazing features
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  • AGM battery with high-end technology
  • Sealed and spill-proof design to last long
  • 12-volt battery to serve sound performance
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  • AGM battery with exceptional features
  • Non-spilling design that marks durability
  • Reserve capacity of 140 minutes to run your electronics as long as you want
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Are All Winch Batteries The Same?

No, not all winch batteries are the same. Since different winches are designed to bear a certain maximum load, the batteries to operate your winch would have different limits of Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). All batteries can't work with heavy winches, therefore, you must decide wisely.

These batteries also differ in durability, size, weight, discharge time, and brand. Some units might be capable of giving sound performance, even at a lower voltage and not will not out of charge so quickly. 

Characteristics of Our Favorite Winch Batteries

While there are many models on the market, it becomes difficult to choose the best out of them. The following are some features that make for the best winch battery. Therefore, whenever you set out to make a purchase, look for these features in order to get the best product.

Compatibility

You must look for a battery that is compatible with your winch and vehicle, as well. Try to get one with a small size that can easily fit in your car and does not require much adjustment. A great battery is less susceptible to the destruction caused by vibration.

Suits Your Style

Different batteries have their associated pros and cons. You should look for one that suits your driving style and respective demands.

Recharge Time and Voltage

Look for a battery with a short recharge time. The power and lifespan of a good battery are determined by its recharge time.

Maintenance-Free

It is better to purchase a battery that is sealed and maintenance-free. This saves you from the frustration of checking water levels and other specifications all the time. 

Warranty

The lifespan of the battery can be easily estimated by the warranty it comes with. In order to make a valuable purchase, go for a high-performance battery with at least a three-year warranty.

Review of the Best Winch Batteries

Now that we are done with the major features that amount to a good battery, let's move to our next section that talks about the reviews of our favorite products. It will guide you to choose the best option.

Let's jump in!

Best Overall:
Optima Batteries 8003-151 34R

OPTIMA Batteries OPT8003-151 8003-151 34R RedTop Starting Battery

PROS

  • No issue of spillage
  • Can be mounted in any position according to your desire
  • Comes with an impressive cranking power to run your winch
  • Sealed and thus, capable of withstanding any tough conditions
  • Good reserve capacity of 100 minutes guarantees long and sound performance

CONS

  • A bit heavy
  • Not suitable for those on a tight budget
  • Less warranty time as compared to other models

What Recent Buyers Report

This product is very popular among its users for a great set of features. It is mostly admired for being non-spilling, which makes it a perfect option to carry around on off-road trips. Moreover, the reserve time is great and lasts long, making this unit greatly appreciated by users.

Why it Stands Out to Us

In case you are looking for a great battery to suit your winch, this Optima Batteries 8003-151 34R is the right product for you. It is equipped with a reserve-time of 100 minutes and its 15x vibration resistance adds on to its perfection. Additionally, it comes with 800 cold-cranking amps to mark reliability.

Who Will Use This Most

This battery is an ideal product for anyone who wants a reliable battery to run a heavy-duty winch. It is resistant to any shock and tough conditions, which makes it perfect for a person who loves to go on off-road trips.

Bottom Line

With a versatile set of features, Optima Batteries 8003-151 34R is capable of providing stable current for a while before it loses power. It gives you excellent performance in tough conditions, making it an essential item to have on off-road trips.

Runner-up:
ACDelco 48AGM

ACDelco silver, calcium Gold 48AGM 36 Month Warranty AGM BCI Group 48 Battery For Truck , Black

PROS

  • Backed by an excellent warranty
  • Made of high-quality materials to last long
  • An affordable model compared to other products
  • A good reserve time of 120 minutes
  • Comes with low internal resistance that helps in efficient performance

CONS

  • Poor spill-proof design
  • Very heavy to carry around
  • Can cause a mess while driving fast on bumpy roads

What Recent Buyers Report

Similar to our top-listed product, this model is also appreciated by its users. It is appreciated for a high reserve time that is meant to provide you with a stable current for a long time. Moreover, it comes with an amazing warranty that makes it reliable.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This ACDelco 48AGM battery is built with a high-density negative paste that enhances its lifespan. Similarly, the lower internal resistance is achieved by employing a calcium lead positive grid. In addition, special technology is employed between the plates in order to minimize the internal short circuit risk. 

Who Will Use This Most

With a long reserve time, this model is a perfect option for Jeep winching. Therefore, it can be used by people who are off-road travelers. Moreover, it is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a robust battery with an excellent warranty.

Bottom Line

A battery with decent performance and good warranty, this ACDelco 48AGM model comes with a robust design and great winching performance. It is meant to serve constant current on-demand without wasting it.

Best for the Money:
NORTHSTAR Pure Lead

PROS

  • No frustration of spills
  • Can be recharged at a faster rate
  • Highly vibration-resistant for durability
  • Design is capable of withstanding any harsh conditions
  • Available at the most affordable price compared to other models

CONS

  • The heavy design adds weight to a vehicle
  • Need to confirm whether it fits vehicle or not
  • The Ah rating is not as impressive as its rivals

What Recent Buyers Report

Users have mostly positive reviews about this product. It is much appreciated for being available at quite a reasonable price. Moreover, the lower price does not mean you have to compromise on features at all, as it comes with all top-end qualities that make for the best product. Users have loved how feature-rich it is, considering its price. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This pure lead automotive battery comes with a non-spilling battery. It is equipped with cold-cranking amps of 620 and the 98-minute reserve capacity makes it highly impressive. Moreover, it is capable of withstanding any harsh conditions, making it perfect for off-roading trucks.

Who Will Use This Most

Designed to supply high amounts of power, this battery is best-suited for owners of Jeeps, Land Cruisers, or Ford trucks. Moreover, if you want to buy a battery with a reasonable price tag, then you must not miss this product.

Bottom Line

With extraordinary features, this battery is one of the cheapest units to meet your usage needs. Moreover, in terms of performance and longevity, it is genuinely one of the most reliable choices for winches.

4. XS Power D6500

XS Power D6500 XS Series 12V 3,900 Amp AGM High Output Battery with M6 Terminal Bolt

PROS

  • Low internal resistance helps in higher conductivity
  • Good resistance against vibration enhances its durability
  • Made of high-quality material that is meant to last long
  • Can be mounted in any direction according to your desire
  • Properly sealed, making it capable of withstanding harsh conditions

CONS

  • Heavyweight model
  • Not equipped with conventional terminals
  • Quite expensive for people on a tight budget

What Recent Buyers Report

This model is very much admired by users for its robust design and high-quality build. Moreover, another impressive feature, according to users, is its constant supply of current due to low internal resistance. Although it is a bit pricey, it's worth all the money. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

One of the leading batteries in the market, this XS Power D6500 is constructed with spill-proof technology in order to make it withstand bad weather conditions. Similarly, this model offers 150 minutes of reserve time to satisfy the user. Moreover, it has an impressive resistance of vibration that guarantees efficient performance of your equipment. 

Who Will Use This Most

This model is the perfect option for anyone who wants a strong battery that is resistant to shock and vibration. It can withstand any tough conditions effortlessly when you are on an off-road trip. Therefore, it can serve any truck owner with an uninterrupted supply of current.

Bottom Line

One of the most powerful batteries currently available in the market, this model is built to last. It is a powerhouse of features and is backed by an amazing four-year warranty. Despite its high price, if you have the extra cash, you won't regret spending it on this. 

5. Exide Edge

Exide Edge FP-AGML4/94R Flat Plate AGM Sealed Automotive Battery

PROS

  • Can easily withstand tough weather conditions
  • Offers a great performance in automotive test
  • Made of high-quality materials that account for reliability
  • A great reserve capacity helps in long-lasting performance
  • Equipped with non-spilling technology that saves the user from any frustration

CONS

  • A bit difficult to install
  • Heavy to carry around
  • The CCA rating is relatively less impressive

What Recent Buyers Report

This amazing product gets mostly positive reviews from its users. Owners are highly impressed by its high-end technology that accounts for a decent performance. Although it is a bit heavy, it is equipped with a range of features that make it perfect, making it a user favorite.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Exide is well-known for its powerful and long-lasting batteries. Exide Edge is surely another great product from the manufacturer that offers a great reserve capacity of 140 minutes, which, in turn, offers a constant supply of current. Moreover, it passed the automotive stress test with great excellence. Additionally, it is built with non-spilling technology that marks reliability.

Who Will Use This Most

One of the most functional batteries in the market, this Exide Edge is surely a great option for anyone who loves to go on off-road trips. It can easily withstand all tough weather conditions and will serve you when higher-than-usual electrical loads are expected. 

Bottom Line

Particularly designed to do a great job for your winch, you can go with this battery without any qualms. Therefore, in case you want a highly powerful battery, you must consider this Exide Edge model. Not to mention, Exide is well-known in the industry, so you know this is a fantastic product. 

Aspects to Consider Before Buying

It is quite important to take some factors into consideration first, before making any purchase. This will help in easy decision-making and get you the best product to fulfill your demands.

Purpose

One of the most important things when buying any product is the purpose of use. It depends on the type of vehicle you will be using a winch battery on. It must be compatible with your vehicle such that it can be attached easily in order to avoid any adjustment expense.

Brand

There are plenty of models available in the market under the name of various brands. You must opt for a battery from a reputed brand in order to bring value to your money and to ensure quality. 

CAA

CAA refers to Cold Cranking Amps. This differs for different types of batteries. In case you are using a lead battery of 12 volts, the CAA is normally rated up to a minimum of 650. On the other hand, a deep cycle battery will have a higher CAA and provide a stable current for longer.

Shelf Life

You must keep in mind, the longer a battery remains on the shelf, the shorter the time span it will have. A battery with a short lifespan will be less expensive and will come with a short warranty. Consequently, it is not best-suited for high performance.

Weight

No doubt, batteries are heavy. Therefore, you must opt for a battery that is relatively lighter and thus, can be easily carried around on your vehicle.

Cost

Price is crucial when it comes to purchasing a battery for a winch. Different brands offer batteries with various price tags. You must decide your budget first and then look for a great battery that fits within it. 

Conclusion

With a great winch battery, you can never go wrong in tough conditions. In fact, if you don't have a battery that suits your winch, you'll face great difficulty when your vehicle is stuck somewhere. So, go through our buying guide and detailed reviews before choosing a battery in order to make an informed decision.

People Also Ask

Users have some questions associated with the best winch batteries will serve them in sticky situations. Every user requires a different type of winch battery based on their needs, so some questions are expected. Below are some questions people usually have regarding such batteries. 

Can You Run a Winch Off a Deep Cycle Battery?

Well, it is better to use a deep cycle battery that is specially designed for this task. Generally, a car battery can be employed for short-term use, such as starting the equipment and fully charging it. On the other hand, when it comes to a deep cycle battery, they drain until they die off completely and then need to be recharged for another use. 

Will a Winch Drain My Battery?

The drainage of your battery greatly depends on the quality and operation of the product. A winch won't drain your battery while it's not in operation. You only have to ensure that the cables are in good condition and are tight enough. If the battery continues to drain, maybe it has gone bad with time.

I used to work in construction and landscaping, so I've seen my fair share of ratchet straps, winches, and similar rigging gear. I started Winch Central because I've seen some nasty accidents due to crappy rigging or poor practice. I wanted to be able to recommend good equipment that's SAFE and also provide resources for how its used. I handle the research side of things here as well as product selection for gear reviews.