10 Best Car Battery Brands

Shopping For The Best Car Battery Brands

Buying a new battery isn’t as simple as picking up any old model off the shelf. While you may be tempted to just grab any one when you’re in a jam, choosing the one that’s right for your car will likely help reduce some frustration down the road.

Here, I’ll introduce you to the best car battery brands to show you what options you have in today’s market. While there are countless car battery brands out there today, it wasn’t always like that.

The first types of cars didn’t use batteries. In fact, you used to have to start the engine with a crank! It wasn’t until 1920 when motor cars were made with electric start motors, and it took another half century to develop sealed batteries like the only ones you’ll find in vehicles today. 

Ready to get things started? Let’s dive in. 

10 Best Car Battery Brands

1. DieHard

I’ll admit it, I totally dig this battery’s name, but that’s not why it’s on my list of the best car battery brands. It’s here because it took retail giant Sears 7 years to make the brand, launching it in 1967.

They wanted to create a car battery unlike any other on the market, so they made theirs longer lasting with more starting power.

With batteries for all kinds of vehicles and vessels, from boats to trucks to farm equipment, DieHard is a dependable name in the battery world loved for their batteries’ ability to work well in all kinds of weather conditions. They did the tests to prove it too! With 11 different battery ranges, the average car battery costs $200.

Highlights

• Eco-friendly options
• Battering for electric & hybrid cars
• Longer lasting
• Works well in cold weather

2. Optima

While Optima has a smaller range of batteries than others, this brand is a go-to for its AGM batteries, which stands for “absorbed glass mat.” These are different from gel batteries.

You’ll shop through blue top and red top batteries for your vehicle which makes it really easy if you’re someone who just wants to pick up a battery and be done with it.

Optima was founded by Johnson Controls in 2012, which makes it the youngest name on my list of best car battery brands. Known for its innovation, this modern company has everything you need to start your car reliably. Prices start at $239.

Highlights

• Three battery options
• AGM battery
• 3X longer life
• 15x more vibration resistance

3. NAPA

Napa Auto Parts was founded in 1925 in Georgia. It’s now a subsidiary of Johnson Controls, the same company that owns Optima. Here, you’ll find a wide range of batteries in its inventory, including AGM, lithium ion, and lead acid gel cells. 

Known for their fuss-free nature, folks choose NAPA because of its battery’s powerful performance and low prices. In fact, it’s some of the lowest on my list of best car battery brands.

If you like having options and saving money, I think you’ll like this brand. Prices go as low as $100 and typically hover under $170

Highlights

• Made in the USA 
• Very affordable
• Wide range of powerful batteries
• Hybrid options

4. Odyssey

If you’re looking for a little more finesse with your batteries, don’t pass up on Odyssey. Its batteries are with 100% virgin lead plates that are thinner than other brands so they can fit more of them in. Smart. More plates mean more power, so you can expect flawless starts no matter which Odyssey product you choose. 

Odyssey has the most diverse battery lineup on my list of best car battery brands. You’ll find pro, powersport, extreme, and performance types within its selection. Known around the world, drivers gravitate to this brand due to how well its batteries handle the cold, how long they last, and their superior vibration resistance. 

If you constantly start and stop your vehicle, you might want to consider this brand. Prices clock in around $300+

Highlights

• Innovative design
• Wide range of batteries
• Premium quality

5. EverStart

Live in a cold climate? EverStart is perfectly named. With frequent 5/5 ratings for its cold cranking amps, this brand offers excellent reserve capacity and lifespan.

With some of the most affordable options on my list of best car battery brands, you probably won’t blink when you hear they’re a part of Walmart, although several different companies like Exide and Clarios actually make them. 

Divided into north and south categories, you’ll shop batteries by the part of the US you live in as some are better suited for colder climates than others. Enjoy a 2-5 year limited warranty with each battery along with free consultations and testing in Walmart stores.

Prices are as low as $30 and go up to $150.

Highlights

• Very affordable
• Nice range of cold and warm weather batteries
• Long lifespan 
• Excellent reserve capacity

6. ACDelco

With a small selection of batteries within their gold and silver lines, ACDelco has something for everyone. Stocking marine, heavy duty, and regular automotive batteries, they’re chosen for their smart features like high cycling and a spill-proof absorbent glass mat design. 

Part of General Motors, ACDelco got its start back in 1916 and is available across the globe. You can get a battery from its Silver line for $200 all in.

Highlights

• Small but inclusive range of batteries
• Two core lines
• Heavy duty options
• Accessible
• Easy to shop with GM

7. Bosch 

Around since 1880, Bosch is one of the most popular names on this list of car battery brands. Even though it’s been around for longer than others, drivers prefer these batteries thanks to their affordable prices and how well they perform. 

With an array of high performance, sport, and options for all types of passenger cars, you can pick up a Bosch battery for around $100-$125.

Highlights

• Affordable
• High performance options
• Flushed tops
• Minimized leakage
• Long service life

8. Duracell

Duracell is a name that truly needs no introduction. You’ve probably used their batteries in your home before, but you may not know they’re often chosen for cars too. Founded in 1920 by Philip Mallory and Sam Ruben, the Swiss brand is easy to find on the shelves at stores around the world. 

With a huge selection of automotive batteries for cars, vans, buses, electric vehicles, and even RVs, Duracell batteries are said to have awesome starting power. Get one for $30-$180.

Highlights

• Wide selection of batteries
• Affordable options
• Accessible
• EV options
• Can withstand extreme temperatures

9. Antigravity Batteries

Antigravity Batteries does “all things lithium.” With a line of heavy-dirty, powerful batteries, you might be surprised to find out just how lightweight they are. 

This brand’s batteries are said to last 2x longer than lead-acid batteries can and they offer forward-thinking features on some of their higher end models like charge check buttons. Since these batteries are made to last, you’ll pay a little more than other automotive batteries—$400-$1,200.

Highlights

• 70% lighter than lead
• Powerful, heavy duty batteries
• Lasts 2x longer
• Wireless jump start built in

10. Interstate

Interstate might just have the most expansive selection on this list of best car battery brands. Chosen for their reliability, the brand was launched in the 1950s by John Searcy and offers batteries for just about every vehicle you can think of—from golf carts to boats.

With 5 core models (good to super premium) in its line, it’s easy to find the type of power you need for a price that works for you. For regular vehicles, prices range from $180-$250.

Highlights

• 5 core models
• Options for all climates
• Top of the line performance
• 18-36-month warranty

What is Considered the Best Car Battery? 

Your car won’t start without a battery, so the title for the best car battery carries a lot of weight. To land on a winner, I combed through numerous best-of lists. Surprise, surprise, one particular battery frequently came out on top: the Odyssey Extreme Series car battery.

Scoring flawlessly in the categories of reserve capacity, life, and cold cranking amps, it’s a great choice for most standard sized vehicles.  

Which Brand of Car Battery is the Best?

While Odyssey takes the cake for the top-rated car battery, my pick from the best car battery brands is Optima. Their RedTop Battery is a fan favorite, and it seems like this brand is chosen time and time again because of its reliable, long-lasting batteries. 

Are There Different Types of Car Battery? 

There are 8 different types of car batteries. Some are rechargeable and some aren’t so be sure to read up on each one to make sure you’re selecting the right type for your car:

1. Flooded Lead Acid Battery
2. Silver Calcium Battery
3. Enhanced Flooded Battery
4. Gel Cell Battery
5. Absorbent Glass Mat
6. Deep Cycle
7. Lithium Ion
8. Nickel Metal Hydride 

How Do I Pick a Good Car Battery? 

Picking a good car battery is all about knowing your car, your options, and your needs. While shopping for a battery isn’t the most enjoyable activity, keeping these points in mind while you browse the best car battery brands can make it a lot easier:

Brand

There’s a reason you’ll find a brand’s story and mission on its website. They want you to get to know them and identify with them. Choosing a brand that aligns with your values is a great start. Be sure to track down those with great reputations for reliability and customer service too.

Size

The size of your car battery doesn’t only depend on the actual size of the battery, it also has to do with the voltage per cell. Most car batteries have 12 volts. If you need more, find a brand that has it.

Reserve Capacity

This is where it gets sciency. Reserve capacity refers to the length of time a fully charged battery will power up 25 amps of current in an 80° environment before its voltage lowers to 10.5. The higher this number, the more use you’ll get out of your battery.

Age

Knowing the age of your current car battery is a good way to tell if it needs to be replaced. You’ll find this information on the side of the battery. Batteries over three years old should probably be replaced. Unless you’ve taken good care of yours and don’t live in a humid environment, then your battery may last longer.

Cold-Cranking Amps

This rating determines how well a battery can start an engine in cold temps. Since it’s a lot easier to start up an engine when it’s warm, this number will mean a lot to you when your car won’t start in the dead of winter. Especially if you live further north.

Terminal Location

Every battery has terminals that connect them to a car. One is positive and one is negative. They are almost always located on the top of the battery. 

Starter Vs. Deep Cycle

The difference between these two is pretty self explanatory. Starter batteries are made to start engines whereas deep-cycle batteries are all about long-term power.

Price

A battery is a pretty important part of your car. Similar to wheels, without one, your car won’t be moving out of your driveway. With that said, it’s worth investing in a reliable battery that you can count on in all types of weather.

It doesn’t hurt to have a back-up either. You might want to consider choosing a battery you can afford two of, but if not, spending a little more on a long-lasting one could be a good idea. 

FAQ

What is the average lifespan of a car battery?

You should get about three years out of your car battery, though, this depends on the type and brand you buy. Some last for up to 5 whereas if you live in a humid environment and frequently start your car, you could see it lasting for less. 

How can I tell if a battery is good or bad?

First, you’ll need a multimeter. Then, follow these steps:

1. Hook up the multimeter to the positive and negative terminals on your battery
2. It will give you a reading
3. If your reading is about 12.6V, your battery is good to go
4. If it’s under that amount, you may have a bad battery
5. Start your car and if you have a voltage over 10, your battery is still good
6. If it’s under 5, you’ll need to replace it

Who makes the best car batteries?

We think Optima makes the best car batteries. Odyssey is a close second followed by DieHard due to its long-lasting nature.

How should I dispose of my old car battery? 

It depends on what type of battery you have. They say rechargeable batteries like lithium ion can be disposed of at your local recycling facility, but to be safe, take yours to either a shop that sells batteries or a hazardous waste collection site.

Are all car batteries rated at 12 volts? 

Most of them are rated at 12.6 volts. At 2.1 volts per cell, a battery that has 6 cells will equate to that amount of voltage. You won’t find many with different voltages.

What is the difference between an AGM battery and a conventional battery?

AGM (absorbent glass mat) batteries are charged by soaked sponges that coat their interior lead plates. This contrasts with regular car batteries that use free-flowing liquid. AGM batteries are said to generate more power. 

What battery brand lasts the longest? 

After consulting the masses, it’s said that DieHard batteries last the longest. They’re said to last anywhere from 3-5 years. The normal lifespan of a battery is about three years but depending on your climate and how frequently you drive, they may not make it that long. The same goes for DieHard batteries.

How do I know if I need a new car battery?

There are a few different signs your car and your battery will give you if it’s beginning to lose its power. Here’s a list of what to look out for:

• An engine that starts slowly
• Electrical issues or dim lights
• Your check engine light is on
• You smell something weird (bad batteries smell like rotting eggs)
• The connectors are corroded
• The battery case is deformed
• Your battery is past its prime (older than three years)

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right car battery could be the difference between your car starting in a snowstorm and not. It could also mean you experience steady power and longer battery life.

My list of the best car battery brands is here to help you sort through the many options on the market and no matter which one you pick, feel comfort in knowing these companies are some of the most reliable out there.

How We Chose The Best Car Battery Brands

Before choosing any brand, we scour the web and all the biggest e-tailers to ensure we know all the available options on the market. We look at customer reviews, star ratings, brand ethos, processes, materials, accessibility, and so much more. We weigh the pros and cons, so you don’t have to, helping you make informed shopping decisions.

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