Batteries are everywhere in our daily lives—from cars and motorcycles to smartphones and laptops. But did you know that the type of battery you choose can make a big difference in performance and convenience?
Two of the most common types are lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries, but which one is right for you? In this guide, we'll break down the key differences and help you pick the best battery based on your needs!
1. The Basics of Choosing a Battery
Choosing the right battery isn’t just about picking the first one you see—there are a few key things to consider:
- 💰 Cost – How much can you spend?
- ⏳ Lifespan – How long will it last before needing a replacement?
- 🔧 Maintenance – Can you handle regular maintenance, or do you prefer a maintenance-free option?
- 🔌 Usage – What kind of device or equipment will it be used for?
By keeping these points in mind, you can make a smarter choice. Now, let’s dive into the details of two of the most common battery types: lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries—how they work, where they’re used, and how to find the right size!
2. Battery comparison Table
| Lead-Acid battery | Lithium-Ion battery | |
| Advantages | Low cost High current output Relatively safe |
Lightweight Long lifespan No memory effect |
| Disadvantages | Heavy Shorter lifespan Degrades if left unused |
Expensive Sensitive to impact and high temperatures Vulnerable to deep discharge |
| Recommended applications | Car and Motorbike Emergency power supplies Forklifts |
Smartphones Laptops Electric vehicles E-bikes |
* Choose lead-acid for cost efficiency!
* Choose lithium-ion for lightweight and longevity!
3. Types of Batteries
Below is a reference for the classification of different types of LAB(Lead-Acid Batteries) and LIB(Lithium-Ion Batteries) and their maintenance needs and installation flexibility:
| Category | Type | Applications | Maintenance | Installation |
| LAB |
FLA/SLI | Starter batteries for automobiles, trucks, bus, construction and agricultural machinery | Required | Upright only |
| LAB | FLA/DCB | Deep cycle applications for Industrial machinery | Required | Upright only |
| LAB | MF/SLI | Maintenance-free starter batteries forautomobiles, trucks, bus, construction and agricultural machinery | Not required | Upright only |
| LAB | MF/EFB | start-stop(Idling Stop) automobiles and trucks | Not required | Upright only |
| LAB | MF/AGM | High performance vehicles, motorcycles,bikes | Not required | Can be placed sideways |
| LAB | VRLA-AGM | UPS, renewable energy, motorcycles,bikes | Not required | Can be placed sideways |
| LAB | VRLA GEL/Starting |
Marine, Industrial applications, Construction and Agricultural machinery | Not required | Can be placed sideways |
| LAB | VRLA GEL/DCB |
Deep cycle applications for construction and agricultural machinery | Not required | Can be placed sideways |
| LAB | VRLA Dual-Tech (AGM+GEL) |
Hybrid applications, Trucks,Bus, Industrial equipment | Not required | Can be placed sideways |
| LIB | LIB/SLI | Start-stop(Idling stop) systems for automobiles, motorcycles, bikes | Not required | Can be placed sideways |
| LIB | LIB/DCB | Deep cycle applications for EV | Not required | Can be placed |
The above are just examples, and the appropriate battery selection is required depending on the vehicle and equipment used.
*FLA : Flooded Lead-Acid battery
The most common type of lead-acid battery, FLA (Flooded Lead-Acid) batteries contain liquid electrolyte (diluted sulfuric acid) that freely moves inside the battery case.
a) Liquid Electrolyte
The electrolyte remains in liquid form and freely moves inside the battery case, requiring periodic refilling depending on usage conditions.
Not fully sealed; equipped with vent holes for gas release.
b) Requires Maintenance (Refilling & Inspection)
Produces hydrogen and oxygen gases during charging, causing water loss.
Needs regular refilling with distilled water, especially in high-temperature environments where evaporation is high.
c) Affordable Price
More cost-effective compared to other lead-acid battery types like AGM, GEL, and CMF.
d) Resistant to Deep Discharge
Can recover from deep discharges (battery completely drained) if recharged properly.
However, repeated excessive discharge shortens its lifespan.
e) High Durability & High Current Supply Capability
Commonly used in heavy-duty applications such as trucks, forklifts, and industrial machinery requiring high load and long operation times.
*MF : Maintenance-Free
A lead-acid battery designed to require less frequent water refilling compared to traditional FLA batteries.
・Semi-Sealed Structure
Reduces gas generation and minimizes evaporation.
However, it is not completely sealed, so some models allow water refilling after prolonged use.
・Lead-Antimony & Calcium Alloy
Some MF batteries use lead-antimony or calcium alloy plates.
If 100% calcium alloy is used, it is classified as a CMF battery.
□ SMF (Sealed Maintenance-Free) Battery
A completely sealed, maintenance-free lead-acid battery.
・Fully Sealed Design
No vent holes; prevents electrolyte leakage and enhances safety.
Designed for high-vibration environments and extreme conditions.
□ CMF (Calcium Maintenance-Free) Battery
A maintenance-free lead-acid battery that uses calcium (Ca) alloy plates.
・Maintenance-Free
Minimal electrolyte evaporation; rarely needs refilling.
Easier to manage compared to traditional FLA batteries.
・Low Self-Discharge
Calcium alloy reduces self-discharge, allowing long-term use.
・High Durability
Resistant to high temperatures and overcharging, extending battery life.
・Excellent Cold Cranking Performance
High CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) ensures reliable engine start even in cold climates.
*SLI : Starting, Lighting, Ignition
SLI batteries are the most common type of lead-acid batteries used in vehicles. They provide power for starting the engine, lighting, and ignition systems.
◇Key Features
・Strong Starting Power → Delivers a high burst of energy to start the engine
・Affordable → Cost-effective and widely used in cars
・Not Designed for Deep Discharge → Frequent full discharge can shorten its lifespan
・Two Types Available → Traditional refillable flooded(FLA) type and maintenance-free (MF) type
*EFB : Enhanced Flooded Battery
EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) is an upgraded version of a standard lead-acid battery. It’s designed for start-stop(Idling stop) vehicles and cars that need extra power.
◇Key Features
・Lasts Longer – Twice~Triple the lifespan of regular lead-acid batteries.
・Great for Start-Stop Cars – Handles frequent charging and discharging without losing performance
・More Affordable than AGM – Costs less but still maintenance-free (no refilling needed)
・Charges Faster – Quickly recharges, making engine restarts smoother
・Stronger & More Durable – Built with thicker plates and special materials for better heat and vibration resistance
*DCB : Deep Cycle Battery
DCB (Deep Cycle Battery) is a type of battery designed to provide steady power over a long period. Unlike SLI (Starting, Lighting, Ignition) batteries, which deliver a quick burst of energy to start an engine, DCB batteries are built to discharge power slowly and last longer. They are commonly used in applications where continuous power is needed, such as solar energy systems, RVs, and electric vehicles.
◇Key Features
・Long-lasting power → Provides a steady flow of electricity for an extended time.
・Deep discharge resistant → Can be repeatedly drained and recharged without damage.
・Not for engine starting → Doesn’t supply the high burst of power needed to start a car.
・Proper charging needed → Must be charged correctly to prevent overcharging or deep discharge.
*VRLA : Valve Regulated Lead-Acid battery
A type of sealed lead-acid battery equipped with a pressure-regulating valve to control internal gas pressure.
・Safe & Maintenance-Free
No electrolyte leakage, making it widely used in UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supplies), medical equipment, and renewable energy storage.
・Two Main Types of VRLA Batteries:
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Battery
GEL Battery
□ AGM : Absorbent Glass Mat
A sealed lead-acid battery where the electrolyte is absorbed in a fiberglass mat.
・Maintenance-Free
No water refilling required; minimal gas emission.
Requires little to no ventilation.
・High Starting Power & Fast Discharge
Low internal resistance allows quick delivery of high current.
High CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) ensures reliable cold-weather starting.
・Long Lifespan & High Durability
Vibration-resistant, making it ideal for off-road vehicles and motorcycles.
More resistant to over-discharge than traditional FLA batteries.
・High Charging Efficiency
Low self-discharge and high energy density improve efficiency.
Suitable for start-stop and hybrid vehicles.
・Flexible Mounting Positions
Fully sealed design prevents leakage, allowing horizontal or even upside-down installation.
□ GEL : Gel battery
A sealed lead-acid battery using silica gel to immobilize the electrolyte.
・Gel Electrolyte (No Leakage)
The silica gel-based electrolyte prevents liquid movement, enhancing durability.
Reduces evaporation, increasing lifespan.
Can be installed in any orientation.
・Maintenance-Free
No water refilling required; nearly zero gas emission.
No ventilation needed, ensuring high safety.
・Excellent Deep Discharge Resistance & Longevity
Better withstands deep discharge (DOD: Depth of Discharge) than FLA or AGM batteries.
Higher cycle life (charge/discharge cycles) for extended use.
More resistant to over-discharge compared to other lead-acid types.
・Superior Performance in Extreme Temperatures
Performs well in both high and low temperatures.
Generally lasts longer than AGM batteries in hot climates.
Used in solar power systems, UPS, medical devices, and industrial applications.
*Dual-Technology (AGM+GEL) : Heavy duty (Absorbent Glass Mat + Gel)
AGM+GEL is a hybrid battery technology that combines the strengths of AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) and GEL (Gel Electrolyte) batteries. This makes it a heavy-duty, long-lasting battery that can handle both high power output and deep cycling (frequent charging and discharging).
◇ How Does It Work?
・ AGM → Delivers high power and fast charging while resisting vibrations.
・ GEL → Provides deep cycle capability, making the battery last longer.
・ AGM+GEL Hybrid → Combines both technologies, making it strong, reliable, and long-lasting.
◇ Key Benefits
・ Tough & Durable → Handles rough conditions, shocks, and extreme temperatures.
・ Long-Lasting → Can be charged and discharged many times without damage.
・ Fast Charging → Charges quicker than standard deep-cycle batteries.
・ No Maintenance → Sealed design, so no need to add water.
・ Stable Power Supply → Works well in both high-power and deep-cycle applications.
*LIB : Lithium-Ion Battery
Lithium-Ion Battery (LIB) is a rechargeable battery that uses lithium ions to store and release energy. It is widely used due to its high energy density, long lifespan, and lightweight design compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.
◇Key Benefits
・ High Energy Density → Stores more power in a smaller and lighter battery.
・ Longer Lifespan → Can last 2-5 times longer than lead-acid batteries.
・ Fast Charging → Charges much quicker than traditional batteries.
・ Maintenance-Free → No need to add water or perform regular maintenance.
・ No Memory Effect → Can be recharged anytime without reducing capacity.
・ Eco-Friendly → Produces less waste and lasts longer, reducing environmental impact.
4. Industrial standard & Size
◇JIS : Japanese Industrial Standard
| JIS | ISS | W | D | H | Old JIS |
| A19 | - | 184mm | 127mm | 157mm | 12N24 |
| B17 | J | 167mm | 127mm | 203mm | |
| B19 | K | 187mm | 127mm | 203mm | |
| B20 | M | 197mm | 129mm | 203mm | NS40/N40 |
| B24 | N | 238mm | 129mm | 203mm | NS60 |
| D23 | Q | 232mm | 173mm | 204mm | |
| D26 | S | 260mm | 173mm | 204mm | N50/N70 |
| D31 | T | 306mm | 173mm | 204mm | N100 |
| E41 | U | 410mm | 176mm | 213mm | N120 |
| F51 | V | 505mm | 182mm | 213mm | |
| G51 | W | 508mm | 222mm | 213mm | N150 |
| H52 | X | 521mm | 278mm | 220mm | N200/N220 |
・ISS : Idle Stop & Start
◇LN : (Lage Norm / EN50342 compliant)
| LN(EN) | W | D | H | DIN |
| LN0 | 174mm | 174mm | 190mm | DIN41 |
| LBN0 | 174mm | 174mm | 175mm | DIN41[LBN] |
| LN1 | 208mm | 174mm | 190mm | DIN43/DIN45 |
| LBN1 | 208mm | 174mm | 175mm | DIN43[LBN]/DIN45[LBN] |
| LN2 | 242mm | 174mm | 190mm | DIN60/H5 |
| LBN2 | 242mm | 174mm | 175mm | DIN45[LBN]/DIN60[LBN] |
| LN3 | 277mm | 174mm | 190mm | DIN65/DIN66/DIN75/H6 |
| LBN3 | 277mm | 174mm | 175mm | DIN65[LBN]/DIN66[LBN] DIN75[LBN] |
| LN4 | 315mm | 174mm | 190mm | DIN75/DIN77/H7 |
| LBN4 | 315mm | 174mm | 175mm | DIN75[LBN]/DIN77[LBN] |
| LN5 | 354mm | 174mm | 190mm | DIN88/DIN90/DIN100 DIN110/H8 |
| LBN5 | 354mm | 174mm | 175mm | DIN88[LBN]/DIN90[LBN] DIN100[LBN]/DIN110[LBN] |
| LN6 | 398mm | 174mm | 190mm | H9 |
| LBN6 | 398mm | 174mm | 175mm |
*DIN : Deutsche Industrie Normen
5. Others
*CCA（Cold Cranking Amps）
CCA is the amount of power a battery can provide for 30 seconds at -18°C to start your engine. The higher the CCA, the better the battery performs in cold weather.
◇ Why Does CCA Matter?
・ Helps Start Your Engine in the Cold
Cold weather makes engine oil thicker, making it harder for the engine to turn over.
A higher CCA battery gives more power to start the engine smoothly.
・ Essential for Cold Climates
In freezing temperatures, a weak battery can fail.
A high CCA battery helps prevent dead batteries in winter.
・ Bigger Engines Need More CCA
Diesel trucks, SUVs, and large cars need higher CCA to crank their engines.
⭐︎⭐︎⭐︎For Inquiries Regarding Battery Selection⭐︎⭐︎⭐︎
To help us recommend the most suitable battery for you, please provide the following information:
1) Type of vehicle or equipment you plan to use the battery for
2) Model of the vehicle or equipment
3) Size of your current battery (there are these informations on the label of front and top of the battery.)
If it is difficult to provide all three details, please send us a photo of the label on the front and top of current battery.
Once we have all the necessary information, we will suggest the best battery for all customers.
KBL MACHINERY VIETNAM LTD / KMVL
Tax code : 0317371042
E-mail: inq@kmvl.com.vn
Tel: +84-28-7302-1425
HP: https://kmvl.com.vn/