AGM batteries: Optima vs. Lifeline vs. Odyssey

[Jeff]

I'll soon have to replace a pair of (cheap) batteries and am thinking of going with AGM for their ability to sit idle for a while without losing much charge when I'm too busy to go out or when we get a cold period spring and fall. I do not know much about batteries and am considering a pair of Optima D31M (http://www.1st-optima-batteries.com/#deepyellowspecs), Lifeline GPL-31T (http://www.lifelinebatteries.com/rvflyer.php?id=3), or Odyssey PC1500MST (http://www.powerstridebattery.com/productcart/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=50&idproduct=1528), though the latter is getting a bit pricey for my budget. These also are probably a bit overkill for my needs (will mostly just use them for starting and pumps and electronics and powering computer & external wifi antenna) but I like having a bit more battery than I'll hopefully need. (except for the possible tax it could put on my stock mercruiser alternators with the AGMs if I do draw one down all the way.)

Anyone have a good review comparison of Optima vs. Lifeline vs. Odyssey in general?

[Landlubber]

Try a price on Trojan batteries too, I have used and recommended them for many years now.

[Jeff]

Thanks Landlubber! The name is familiar but I haven't seen one around here in a while. Will have a look at their pricing. Thanks.

[mydauphin]

Optimas, are easy to get at most autoparts... They work fairly well, I like Blue tops. Don't know much about others.

[Jeff]

Just ordered a pair of Optima blue tops. I've heard some great comments about the Odyssey batteries but the cost was 50% greater.

[masalai]

My present choice is Optima D34M, but I do not anticipate purchasing till nearer launch date in April 2010, so I am still open to better options (capacity & rate of accepting a charge) as I will have 20 of them and desire the best "bang for the buck" - - They are spiral wound and around 20kg each... but there may well arise better options...

[mark775]

For "bang for the buck" you may want LI-ion!

[masalai]

Mark, thanks for the thought and suggestion, but not at present, - - technical requirements for charging and mid-stack failures and over here the price is horrendous when 48v 220 AH or better is considered... especially when the controlling and management circuitry is included as opposed to a relatively cheap controller for lead acid...