Battery car rating while driving. Comparative test of imported and domestic batteries

Car batteries (ACB) in our market are traditionally positioned as a seasonal product, the demand for which increases markedly with the onset of cold weather. This year is no exception, and now dozens of a wide variety of batteries are presented in abundance on the shelves of car dealerships. And to make it easier for the driver to navigate the choice, we offer the results of tests of batteries belonging to the so-called European group.

We have already acquainted the readers of the AvtoVzglyad portal with the results of a similar test, during which power supplies were tested, the design and electrical parameters of which are determined by the Japanese JIS standard. Such batteries are designed for Japanese, Korean and Chinese cars, including those assembled in our country.

This time, our test editors, together with the experts of the AvtoParad portal, organized a comparative test of seven car batteries designed for European cars. And since this group of batteries captures the bulk of the Russian market and is in demand by many motorists, such a test was all the more interesting.

In our test, the European group is represented by starter batteries of such well-known foreign brands as Varta (Germany), TAB (Slovenia), Mutlu (Turkey), AFA (South Korea), as well as similar products of our production, manufactured under the brands AKOM, Zver and Titan. The capacity ratings for most samples are 60 Ah, with the exception of Varta and AKOM batteries - for them this figure is 61 and 62 Ah, respectively. The declared values ​​​​of cold scrolling current (TCP) are also different - there are denominations of 520, and 540, and 600 A. All products have reverse polarity terminals.

Batteries were tested in the service center of one of the metropolitan companies specializing in the supply of auto electronics. During the test, battery parameters such as the level of charge at the time of delivery, as well as starting properties at low temperatures (from -18C to -24C) were evaluated and compared. Already on the basis of a comparison of indicators, the experts set out to determine how much the capacity and declared values ​​​​of the TC of batteries affect the actual starting capabilities.

The first stage of research was the measurement of the residual capacity of the battery. We wanted to find out if there were any thoroughly discharged batteries among the purchased samples. Note that the assessment of the charge level of all batteries was carried out immediately after they were delivered to the laboratory. The result of the tests is generally good - the level of charge of all the batteries submitted for the test turned out to be quite working. It, depending on the model, ranged from 80 to 95%.

After measurements, all batteries were put on charge. The process continued until a level corresponding to 100% of the battery capacity was recorded in each sample. And in order for all samples to be in equal conditions, only the same type of chargers of the Smart Power SP-8N series were used to replenish their capacity. Note that with the help of these devices, all the batteries again had to be charged for several hours in a row after each series of start-up tests.

Now about the main stage of testing, during which the “starter” properties of batteries were studied at low temperatures. To do this, our experts proposed a methodology, the meaning of which is to estimate the number of conditional starts that a particular battery can make in the cold. Each conditional start represented a 12-second discharge with a powerful current of several hundred amperes. The more such starts a battery can make, the higher its efficiency.

During this stage, the experts performed two types of "start-discharge" studies. One test was done after a 24-hour stay of the battery in the freezer at a temperature of -18 degrees. Then, each sample was taken out of the chamber and cyclically (with an interval of a minute) was subjected to a 12-second discharge with a current of 360 A (scheme: 12 seconds - discharge, 48 seconds - pause, etc.). The number of such conditional starts was limited to the cycle in which the voltage at the battery terminals dropped to a value of 8.5 V.

The second type of testing was similar in meaning to the first, but more stringent in terms of the conditions. Firstly, the battery freezing time has been increased to two days. It was carried out according to the following scheme: the first day the chamber worked in the super-freeze mode with a gradual decrease in temperature to -30 degrees, then it was smoothly brought to a temperature of -24 degrees, which was maintained until the end of the second day. Next, each battery was subjected to the same cyclic 12-second discharge, but with a current of 400 A. The number of such starts was limited to the cycle in which the voltage at the terminals of the unloaded battery was below 12.3 V. What did these studies show?

So, after a day of idleness in 18-degree frost, the most conditional starts with a current of 360 A were made by batteries of the Varta brands (10 starts), as well as Titan and TAB (both 9 starts each).

A similar picture emerges based on the results of testing conducted after a two-day battery freeze at -24 C. Varta, Titan and TAB again made up the “three” brands that provided the largest (5-6) conditional starts with a discharge current of 400 A.

The conducted studies of starting properties were supplemented by analytics of average retail prices of batteries, which was reflected in the complex indicator "efficiency-price". The relative (in%) value of such an indicator for each specific sample was determined as the ratio of the number of conditional launches performed to its price, expressed in thousand rubles. As it turned out, the comparison of test results, taking into account the complex indicator, significantly changed the positioning of brands, which was recorded above.

In particular, from the line graphs presented below, it can be seen that the Slovenian battery TAB demonstrates the best “efficiency-price” indicator with the maximum possible value of 100%, followed by the Russian Titan (83-91%) and only then the German Varta (69 -75%). However, this should hardly be surprising, since the sample from Varta is the most expensive of all the participants in our tests, while the “brother” from TAB turned out to be almost among their own kind.

Summing up, we note one interesting and important point from the point of view of choosing a battery: all batteries that showed the best results in terms of the number of conditional starts and took the leading positions according to the test results have the highest (among other samples) values ​​of the declared cold scroll current, namely 600 A As for the capacitance values, its slight excesses noted in the Varta and AKOM batteries, judging by the data obtained, did not affect the final results of testing these samples.

The final results of the comparative tests of starter batteries of the European group are reflected in the summary table, which we bring to your attention. It also indicates the rating places that each brand took according to the results of a comparison of results made on the basis of a complex indicator "efficiency-price". We believe that this information, as well as other test results, will help car owners to take a more balanced approach to choosing an on-board power source.

And finally, we bring to your attention a couple of interesting videos (you can watch another “movie” in which we cut the battery and then start the car with it). The fact is that, completing the tests, our experts decided to conduct another one, but more extreme, for the test winner - the TAB battery. water immersion and ice block freezing test. This test was divided into two stages. The first is an “underwater” engine start. You can see below how the water testing process took place.`

This video clearly demonstrates the excellent starting capabilities of Polar TAB starter batteries. During the experiment, it is clearly shown how a battery completely submerged in water, in which the terminals are completely hidden under water, starts a 2.5-liter Nissan X-Trail SUV engine with half a turn.

However, as they say, this was only the beginning. Extreme was marked during the second stage of testing, which turned out to be much tougher than the first. Judge for yourself: the battery was first placed in a plastic container that was inside the freezer, then it was almost completely filled with water and left to freeze for a day at a temperature of -24 degrees. And after that they connected it to the car's on-board network. How it all happened, you can see in the video.

It would seem that there is nothing special in such tests, especially since in reality there can’t seem to be any water under the hood, and there is practically no ice there. But why doesn't it happen? Suffice it to recall the various weather disasters of recent years that occur regularly in different parts of Russia, when not only cars are flooded - sometimes entire areas and even regions are hidden under water. So such extreme tests in some way can be considered from a practical point of view.

What is the best car battery? This question is not easy to answer. . In our Auto Review 2016 car battery test, we will look at the pros and cons of each battery and help you make the right decision when buying a new battery. In principle, the correct choice of a car battery depends on which and how powerful energy consumers are installed in your car. After all, nowadays you use a large number of energy consumers, such as air conditioning, heated seats and a navigation system, security systems such as Lane Assist. For this reason, new and modern cars are equipped with various control units that must work in conjunction with the entire electrical system of the car. That is why we want to analyze car batteries in more detail in our test. But not all car batteries are the same: especially cars with start-stop systems or with brake energy recovery require special endurance batteries. Such batteries are EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) or AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries. Conventional lead-acid batteries are suitable for older vehicles with simpler power systems.
So what factors are important when buying a car battery? What should you pay attention to? And which battery is best for your car? We want to answer all these questions in our Auto Review 2016 car battery test. You can find all test participants in our comparison tables.

How to choose the right battery?

Every year we thoroughly test new car batteries. A correct assessment of important properties helps to identify the best battery of the year. In principle, before changing the battery, you should first read the owner's manual for your car. It will tell you exactly which car battery is right for your car. Our advice: look at your old battery. Based on the old battery, you can determine which battery is best for you. It is fundamentally important to pay attention to the fact that the new battery must have the same capacity, voltage, starting current, dimensions and polarity as the old battery. This will ensure that the new battery is capable of supplying sufficient power to all of your vehicle's power consumers. In our Auto Review 2016 battery test, we will look at these concepts in more detail.
Capacity
The rated capacity is indicated in ampere-hours (Ah). For example, a fully charged car battery can deliver 36Ah for 20 hours and an average current of 1.8A (amps). (Example: 36Ah = 20h *1.8A). Therefore, to select batteries in our test, we tried to choose batteries that were suitable in capacity. Moreover, a high capacity will never be superfluous.
Voltage
Battery voltage is measured in volts (V). In passenger cars, it is usually standard - 12 volts. Trucks mostly have an onboard voltage of 24 volts. Older cars and some motorcycles may even have 6 volts.
Starting current
Starting current or cold start current is the maximum current that a battery can produce when starting a car. It must also match the current on the old battery. If the starting current is less than necessary, then it will be difficult for him to spin the engine in cold weather, because. engine oil thickens and creates additional resistance. In our car battery test, the cold current is listed for each battery.
Polarity
When choosing a new battery, polarity is also important. In principle, there are several options for polarity, the most common option is straight polarity. Thus, in order to properly connect the battery, you will have to pay attention to this criterion and refer to the car's operating instructions so as not to reverse the polarity.

Dimensions and type of fastening
You should also not neglect the size and type of battery mounting. To make sure that the dimensions are correct, it is necessary to measure the seat for the battery. Most of the batteries in our large car battery test measure 278 x 175 x 190mm (L x W x H). Such a battery is attached, as a rule, from the bottom, behind the bridle at the bottom on the case. This is the standard mount for most batteries labeled B13.
Types and types of car batteries
Mostly in stores there are ordinary lead-acid starter batteries. But recently EFB and AGM have also become popular. Below we will look at all three types in more detail.

Conventional Starter Batteries (Lead Acid Batteries)
These batteries are mainly suitable for older vehicles or for use in vehicles that do not have many electrical consumers. Their advantage is that they are relatively cheap compared to new EFB or AGM batteries. In our car battery test 2016, we will compare battery data and choose the best among them.
EFB battery (car battery for start-stop system)

EFB is short for Enhanced Flooded Battery. This type of battery, which is colloquially also called start-stop, is ideal for vehicles that are equipped with a start-stop system. Such vehicles must have a battery powerful enough to restart the vehicle quickly at traffic lights. Unlike conventional lead-acid batteries, EFB batteries are equipped with a scrim polyester separator. This separator allows you to keep the active mass on the plates, allowing the battery to make a large number of shallow discharge-charge cycles. In our battery review, we compare the best EFB car batteries with each other for you. But if your car is also equipped with a brake energy recovery system, then you should choose an AGM car battery.
AGM car battery
We also tested Autoreview 2016 AGM batteries in this test. If your car is equipped with start-stop and brake energy recovery systems, then AGM - Absorbent Glass Mat car battery is the best choice for you. The construction of these batteries is fiberglass between lead plates and acid. This achieves a more complete interaction of acid and fiberglass. The batteries also have up to 4 times more charge cycles than a conventional car battery. The disadvantage of AGM batteries is the price. AGM car batteries are significantly more expensive than conventional starter batteries, and even more expensive than EFB batteries.

Car battery test overview

With an old battery - this is not life.

Yu.I. Detochkin

The crisis hit everything, and the battery market is no exception. Buyers look primarily at the price. Even the owners of prestigious cars are in no hurry to splurge on expensive AGM and EFB batteries, which a few years ago everyone predicted unconditional dominance.

It’s even somehow embarrassing to talk about amps, coulombs and degrees, if the mass consumer chooses what is cheaper. On the other hand, budget products often lack quality, and savings can cost a pretty penny... This time we decided to focus on inexpensive batteries.

Battery cheaper?

At first, the search for the most inexpensive batteries of the most popular dimension 242 × 175 × 190 mm gave a modest result - only five products priced from 2610 rubles for a Podolsk battery to 3002 rubles for a Tyumen one. Not enough for a full review. They raised the price bar to 3,500 rubles - six more batteries were added. But what about without high-profile foreign names - Varta, Bosch, Mutlu? In addition, domestic batteries close to them in price were left behind - for example, AkTeh. Along the way, it turned out that some oriental brands did not set “crisis” prices for their products at all: the most expensive battery was not Bosch at all, but the Korean Solite for as much as 5,000 rubles!

As a result, we scored two dozen batteries. Let's see how price is related to amp-hours and coulombs.

The purchase was carried out in a retail network in April - May 2016. The research results refer only to this sample and cannot serve as a basis for evaluating all products of a particular brand.

	Starter lead-acid batteries			EFB Start-Stop Battery			AGM Start-Stop Battery
Place	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9
Brand	MOLL	VARTA	Exide	MOLL	Banner	VARTA	Banner	Exide	MOLL
Model	M3 Plus K2	Blue Dynamic E11	Carbon Boost EA770-L3	EFB 82070	Running Bull EFB	E45 Start-Stop	Running Bull AGM 570 01	AGM EK700	Start/Stop plus AGM 81070
average price	EUR 116.10	EUR 75.55	EUR 72.90	EUR 134.33	EUR 116.00	EUR 130.00	EUR 147.05	EUR 167.00	EUR 182.00
Review score	4 reviews	94 reviews	93 reviews	3 reviews	1 review	0 reviews	3 reviews	0 reviews	0 reviews
Technical specifications
Capacity (Ah)	75	74	77	70	70	70	70	70	70
Voltage (V)	12	12	12	12	12	12	12	12	12
Starting current EN (A)	660	680	770	760	660	650	720	760	760
Polarity scheme	0 Plus: right Minus: left	0 Plus: right Minus: left	0 Plus: right Minus: left	0 Plus: right Minus: left	0 Plus: right Minus: left	0 Plus: right Minus: left	0 Plus: right Minus: left	0 Plus: right Minus: left	0 Plus: right Minus: left
Endpolart	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1
positive terminal	conical, 19.2 -19.5 mm	conical, 19.2 -19.5 mm	conical, 19.2 -19.5 mm	conical, 19.2 -19.5 mm	conical, 19.2 -19.5 mm	conical, 19.2 -19.5 mm	conical, 19.2 -19.5 mm	conical, 19.2 -19.5 mm	conical, 19.2 -19.5 mm
Negative terminal	conical, 17.6 -19.9 mm	conical, 17.6 -19.9 mm	conical, 17.6 -19.9 mm	conical, 17.6 -19.9 mm	conical, 17.6 -19.9 mm	conical, 17.6 -19.9 mm	conical, 17.6 -19.9 mm	conical, 17.6 -19.9 mm	conical, 17.6 -19.9 mm
Frame
Dimensions (L x W x H mm)	278x175x190	278x175x190	278x175x190	278x175x190	278x175x190	278x175x190	278x175x190	278x175x190	278x175x190
Weight, kg)	21	17,87	19	21,5	21,5	21,5	25	20,9	21
Type of shell	B13	B13	B13	B13	B13	B13	B13	B13	B13
ETN Marking				570 E00 076		570 500 065
Other test scores
Stiftung Warentest	"good" (2,2)			"very good" (1.3)	"good" (1.6)	"good" (1.7)	"good" (1.7)	"good" (1.8)
Auto Zeitung		382 out of 500 points	335 out of 500 points				454 out of 500 points	441 out of 500 points	426 out of 500 points
ADAC	"Fine"			"very good" (1.3)	"good" (1.7)	"good" (1.7)	"good" (1.7)	"good" (1.8)
GTÜ	"Recommendum" issue 24/2014	"Recommendum" issue 24/2014		"Highly recommended" issue 24/2014

MAIN CRITERIA FOR ASSESSING BATTERY QUALITY Reserve capacity. Shows how long the car will last with all the energy consumers turned on (headlights, windscreen wipers, ventilation system), if its alternator has deteriorated. Measured in minutes. The higher the score, the better. Reduced starting energy with declared current. Characterizes the energy of the battery in the starting mode. It is measured in kilojoules. The higher the score, the better. Reduced single current starting energy at -18 and -29 ºС. Allows you to compare the current characteristics of all batteries under the same conditions, regardless of their passport data. Simply put, the higher the energy, the more attempts to confidently start the motor, ceteris paribus. It is measured in kilojoules. The higher the score, the better. Receiving a charge at a constant external voltage. Indicates the ability of the battery to recover from a deep discharge. In practice, a battery that accepts a charge better than others will charge faster when traveling. All batteries passed the test. Note. Technical measurements were carried out by specialists from the NIITs AT 3 of the Central Research Institute of the Ministry of Defense of Russia. The test results refer to a specific sample of batteries and cannot be used as a characteristic of all products of the same name as a whole.

And will it do so?

The overall impression of the test results is painful. There are three main reasons for frustration. Firstly, sellers still slip stale goods, albeit with guarantees, smiles and seals. Secondly, it is unpleasant that in the Russian frost, out of twenty brand new batteries, eleven failed. Thirdly, out of two dozen batteries, only two really fought for victory - Tyumen Battery Premium and Varta Blue Dynamic. Their separation from rivals was serious. And, curiously, the advantage is obvious both with and without price.

Run through the first columns of the table, which shows the reserve capacity of brand new batteries. In parentheses, we give the actual "volume" of electricity that the buyer pays for. By analogy with refueling: you ask to fill a full tank, and the tanker splashed only on the bottom. But there is a difference: a “mistake” of a gas station will not lead to anything terrible, but a discharged battery, as the pros say, “turns sour”. Often this is irreversible: it loses its capacity and loses its efficiency. We were ready for this, so before the start of the tests, as usual, we charged all the batteries to capacity. And you need to do this before you put the battery on the car. Our measurements confirm this.

Now about the "overpayments" for the brand. The miracle did not happen: all the little-known batteries accumulated together at the bottom of the table. The most annoying thing is that the prices for many of them are not cheap at all. There is clearly no point in overpaying for such imports. And the first half of the table was filled with familiar names - we advise you to focus on them.

First thing determine the size of the battery. He must be guaranteed to fit in his workplace - in the engine compartment or trunk. Simultaneously determine the polarity. An old battery will help here: look - plus on the right or on the left? Often the length of the wires does not allow you to connect a battery of the “wrong” polarity. When choosing a battery brand, we strongly recommend be guided by the list of our winners recent years. Don't be fooled by the low price - there are no philanthropists on the market. The brand determines the value. As a rule, with the same dimensions, serious companies offer batteries of different energy capacities (for example, different declared amperes and ampere-hours). It is better to take the maximum, even if it is a little more expensive. Not worth buying products that have units of the “A / h” type on the labels or in the passport. This indicates the technical illiteracy of their compilers and raises doubts about the quality. The purchased battery must be charged without fail. After charging and soaking (storing the battery disconnected from the charger) for 10–15 hours, the voltage should be 12.5–12.7 V. If measured immediately after charging, the readings can significantly exceed the actual open circuit voltage.

All in place

To identify leaders and outsiders, we have introduced a point system. In each type of test, the best and worst results were taken and assigned five points (maximum) and one point (minimum), respectively. Each of the other participants received an intermediate score proportional to their position between the leader and the outsider. For example, if when measuring the reserve capacity, the leader showed the result of 112 minutes, and the outsider - 78, then the participant with the result of 87 minutes gets 2.06 points. If the battery fails in one or another type of test, it receives 0 points.

The total score based on the results of measurements is the arithmetic average of five intermediate estimates. Then we divided it by the price of the battery, after which we again brought it to a five-point scale. So the final score is essentially value for money.

Out of competition in our tests were Tyumen Battery Premium and Varta Blue Dynamic batteries. Taking into account the much more attractive price, the “Siberian woman” climbed to the top. If we did not take prices into account, Varta would be the first. However, the “foreigner” has one more paradoxical advantage over the Russian battery: it is easier to find it on sale. It sounds illogical, but it is true, and not only in Moscow.

Conclusion? You can not buy a battery, looking only at the price tag. Savings can go sideways. Better take some time to get acquainted with the results of our expertise. Good luck with your purchase and stable voltage in the on-board network!

THE BEST BATTERIES FOR A CAR: THE WINNERS OF ZARULEV EXPERTISE
	Tyumen Battery Premium	Varta	Mutlu
2015	Tyumen Battery Premium	Topla	Exide Premium
2014	Varta	Banner	Bosch
2013	Tyumen Battery Leader	Mutlu	Royal
2012	Varta	Medalist	Topla
2011	Medalist	Panasonic	Titan
2010	Medalist	Varta	Beast
2009	Varta	Medalist	A-mega
2008	Bosch	Medalist	Varta
2007	Mutlu	Acom	Medalist
2006	Varta	Medalist	Bosch
2004	Tyumen	Tyumen	Medalist
Place	first	second	third

20th place	19th place	18th place	17th place
Estimated price 4900 rub. Declared capacity 60 Ah Declared current 500 A Measured/declared weight 13.63/ 13.99 kg gas outlet central Electrolyte level control - It seems that the name of the battery should remind the buyer of the well-known Exide brand - the difference is one letter. Hence, perhaps, the high price. However, the Korean battery turned out to be frail: all scores are below two points. And at -29 ºC, she asked for mercy: the voltage sank below the prescribed 6 V. Taking into account the price, she took the last place in the all-around.	Estimated price 4500 rub. Declared capacity 60 Ah Declared current 510 A Measured/declared weight 14.03 kg / not specified gas outlet central Electrolyte level control - Weak "energy" did not hold up in the Russian frost: after 15 seconds of torment, the tension dropped sharply - that's it, we arrived. The reserve capacity is useless. The overpricing only exacerbated the negative effect. Penultimate place.	Estimated price 5000 rub. 62 Ah (105 min.) Declared current 600 A Measured/declared weight 13.54 kg / not specified gas outlet central Electrolyte level control - We bought this battery after seeing the price tag that is prohibitive for a low-profile brand. What if this is a new market leader? But in the cold, the voltage quickly dipped below the mark, and the price-quality ratio determined the place at the tail of the table.	Estimated price 3110 rub. Declared capacity 55 Ah Declared current 460 A Measured/declared weight 13.6/ 15.0 kg gas outlet central Electrolyte level control - The reserve capacity is the lowest. At -18 ºC - the worst. At -29 ºC - loss of performance. That's the whole biography. And what's the use of the fact that the price is low?

16th place	15th place	14th place	13th place
Estimated price 3000 rub. Declared capacity (reserve capacity) 55 Ah (88 min.) Declared current 420 A Measured/declared weight 12.95/ 15.8 kg gas outlet central Electrolyte level control through traffic jams How it all started well ... The price is only 3000 rubles. And even the reserve capacity is indicated in minutes. But then the carriage turned into a pumpkin: ratings below two plus a failure after four seconds of operation in the cold - the voltage is below 6 V.	Estimated price 2610 rub. Declared capacity 55 Ah Declared current 420 A Measured/declared weight 12.42/ 15.8 kg gas outlet central Electrolyte level control through traffic jams The cheapest battery in the selection. It does not matter that the declared current is only 420 A, as long as it works. But the difference between the real mass and the promised one was 3.38 kg - lead was not reported. Bottom line: all scores below two points. And in the cold "electricity is over."	Estimated price 3300 rub. Declared capacity 60 Ah Declared current 520 A Measured/declared weight 14.05/ 16.95 kg gas outlet central Electrolyte level control through traffic jams After weighing, everything became clear - almost 3 kg was missing. After nine seconds of operation in the cold, the battery died: the voltage dropped below 6 V. In addition, this battery also takes charge the worst of all.	Estimated price 3450 rub. Declared capacity 55 Ah Declared current 470 A Measured/declared weight 12.8/ 15.0 kg gas outlet central Electrolyte level control through traffic jams The price is reasonable, but it looks like they saved money again on lead plates. At -29 ºС, the battery failed: the voltage dipped below the waterline. However, the initial reserve capacity also did not inspire optimism: only 11 minutes! Therefore, although not the last, but still an unhappy place.

12th place	11th place	10th place	9th place
Estimated price 3250 rub. Declared capacity 62 Ah Declared current 550 A Measured/declared weight 14.63/ 15.8 kg gas outlet through traffic jams Electrolyte level control through traffic jams Only 17 minutes of original reserve capacity. The reason is obvious: the sellers did not service the battery! We loaded it and brought it back to life. Weighing showed a lack of lead. After only seven seconds of operation in the cold, the battery refused to cooperate.	Estimated price 4200 rub. Declared capacity 60 Ah Declared current 520 A Measured/declared weight 14.25/ 15.5 kg gas outlet central Electrolyte level control through traffic jams The price is high, and lead for this money is clearly not enough. The battery is afraid of cold weather: it could not give out decent joules in the cold, holding out for 17 seconds instead of the promised thirty. In general, I did not like it.	Estimated price 4750 rub. Declared capacity 60 Ah Declared current 540 A Measured/declared weight 13.35 kg / not specified gas outlet central Electrolyte level control - For many years now, I have had to write the same thing about Bosch: the eminent brand did not surprise me with anything. A modest place in the middle of the table, not a single memorable result. The battery didn't fail, but it didn't attract attention either. The price is high, but the energy is not enough.	Estimated price 2900 rub. Declared capacity 60 Ah Declared current 500 A Measured/declared weight 13.31/ 15.7 kg gas outlet central Electrolyte level control through traffic jams Very attractive price. And the same question: where is the lead? Too light product came from Kazakhstan. The lack of lead quickly backfired: in the cold, the battery got a "steering wheel" because it failed to give out the required energy.

8th place	7th place	6th place	5th place
Estimated price 4100 rub. Declared capacity 64 Ah Declared current 570 A Measured/declared weight 17.05/ 16.8 kg gas outlet through traffic jams Electrolyte level control through traffic jams The heaviest battery in the test: lead was spared. But a miracle saved the battery from failure: at the time of purchase, “it” had only 14 minutes of reserve capacity. It's good that the experts managed to bring her back to life after the charge. Against this background, the results shown can be considered excellent. But I didn't like the price.	Estimated price 4500 rub. Declared capacity 60 Ah Declared current 600 A Measured/declared weight 13.73/ 14.4 kg gas outlet central Electrolyte level control through traffic jams This brand has always looked decent. So it is now: the battery delivers the high declared current regularly, it is not afraid of frost. It could have been better, but the battery was clearly not recharged in the store - this is evidenced by the original reserve capacity.	Estimated price 3500 rub. Declared capacity 55 Ah Declared current 450 A Measured/declared weight 13.95/ 14.3 kg gas outlet central Electrolyte level control through traffic jams The Siberian "bear" has firmly settled in sixth place both in terms of characteristics and adjusted for price. The reserve capacity upon purchase turned out to be quite small - apparently, the battery had been in the warehouse for a long time. A typical situation: sellers do not like to keep track of batteries.	Estimated price 4100 rub. Declared capacity 60 Ah Declared current 600 A Measured/declared weight 15.67 /16.4 kg gas outlet central Electrolyte level control - The battery honestly delivered what was promised, including a solid 600 A. The price blocked the way to a higher place: a little expensive for a Russian product!

Electrolyte level control -

The winner of numerous examinations of past years is going through hard times today. The brand left our market, then returned again. Therefore, the fourth place is, of course, a success. Note that too high a price did not let the “medalist” on the pedestal.

Estimated price 3520 rub.

Declared capacity 63 Ah

Declared current 550 A

Measured/declared weight 15.3/ 15.6 kg

gas outlet central

Electrolyte level control -

The “Turkish woman” was brought to the top three by a relatively low price. Judging only by electrical parameters, it would be the fifth. But the value for money helped to beat the competition. However, this brand has always been in the group of leaders.

Estimated price 4550 rub.

Declared capacity 60 Ah

Declared current 540 A

Measured/declared weight 14.78 kg / not specified

gas outlet central

Electrolyte level control -

Two nominations won, three - silver. Without taking into account the price, Varta would have become the first, since it was ahead of the Tyumen battery by a fraction of a point. But the one and a half difference in price eventually moved it to second place.

Estimated price 3000 rub.

Declared capacity 64 Ah

Declared current 590 A

Measured/declared weight 16.6/ 17.2 kg

gas outlet central

Electrolyte level control through traffic jams

"Sibiryachka" won in three nominations, in two more it was the second. In the final, the price tag brought the battery to the first place - Varta is much more expensive. The rest of the participants lagged behind in terms of parameters quite strongly. By the way, this is one of the heaviest batteries in our sample: no one dreams of gold without lead.

TEST RESULTS*

To view the table in its entirety, use horizontal scrolling.

*All ratings are given on a five-point scale (more is better).

**Domestic batteries are highlighted.

***In parentheses for reference is the original reserve capacity of the batteries at the time of purchase. This parameter does not participate in the distribution of seats.

The TOP 10 included best car batteries, which were selected based on battery tests and owner reviews.

Battery #10. Deka

Price from 12 thousand rubles

Series line Deka opens the top ten batteries. When tested, the batteries showed themselves on the good side - they are able to withstand a deep discharge and at the same time give off enough power to start the engine. To cope with this task, manufacturers use only high-quality lead for the alloy of the plates. The calcium and AGM technologies used in the production also increase the performance of the batteries in this range. The disadvantages of Deka include the inflated price of devices, the cost of which starts from 12 thousand rubles.

No. 9. Banner

Price 4 thousand rubles

Banner- the best option in terms of reliability, but not the cheapest. The use of innovative full calcium technology allows you to start with a deep discharge of the battery. Banner, with excellent power, is able to ensure the smooth operation of vehicles with very high energy requirements. Also, the Austrian product, according to the results of testing, showed good resistance to temperatures up to minus 30 degrees, which ensures a cold start of the engine. The quality of Banner is confirmed by the fact that many German car industries install batteries of this brand on cars. The average cost of the device is 4 thousand rubles.

No. 8. Exide

Price 5 thousand rubles

Ruler from Exide represented by good batteries with better capacity. Batteries are designed for vehicles with high energy consumption. They have more power, unlike analogues by 30%, and have increased performance. According to the manufacturers of Exide, their batteries have high starting power and stability in all weather conditions. But as the test results showed, the battery did not lead to starting the engine at a temperature of minus 30 degrees. The cost of these chargers is 5 thousand rubles and more.

No. 7. Optima

Price 14 thousand rubles

Optima- the best batteries from an American manufacturer. In harsh winter conditions, you can count on starting the engine on the first try, thanks to the very high starting current of the Optima Batteries. These batteries also differ in a peculiar spiral layout, which provides a lower self-discharge rate, as well as minimal wear with frequent repetition of recharge cycles. In the production of Optima Batteries, AGM technology is used: a fiberglass separator is impregnated with electrolyte, so that the device becomes protected from deterioration of electrical parameters.

Also, as a result of testing, it was found that these batteries are quite durable and resistant to mechanical stress - in the event of an accident of moderate severity, with partial destruction of the body, it is possible to start the engine. These batteries are completely maintenance free. The disadvantages of this product line include its inflated price -14 thousand rubles.

No. 6. Vortex

Price 3.5 thousand rubles

Vortex- one of the best batteries for cars according to test results. The device has high current characteristics and behaves well at low temperatures, providing engine starting. It is recommended for vehicles requiring increased power. Even in the event of a deep discharge, the battery can be restored. The battery is reliably protected from external sources of sparking, thanks to the “flame arrester” filter system that is built into the cover. Vortex fully justifies its cost and is in the middle price category - 3.5 thousand rubles.

Battery #5. Aktex

Price 2.7 thousand rubles

Aktex is the best budget option and at the same time with high performance characteristics. The product is manufactured using a hybrid technology using calcium and antimony. This makes the battery more resistant to deep discharge at low temperatures. In addition, calcium negative plates minimize self-discharge. In terms of "reserve capacity" Aktex are the absolute leaders among analogues. However, at a temperature of -30 degrees, the battery does not guarantee the engine will start. The price of such a unit is about 2.7 thousand rubles.

No. 4. Tudor

Price 3-3.5 thousand rubles

Tudor- one of the most popular batteries in the Russian market, due to the high performance. In the production of car chargers, the company uses a special CMET technology, which consists in adding calcium to the battery plate by stretching, which provides better plate strength. Due to this, the battery is less susceptible to corrosion and shedding, and therefore will last a longer period. Also, thanks to this technology, the plates acquire better starting power and the engine starts at temperatures below 30 degrees. On average, these batteries can be in operation for up to 4-5 years. This is the best choice in terms of price-quality ratio. The average cost of Tudor is 3-3.5 thousand rubles.

Battery #3. Topla

Price 5 thousand rubles

Topla one of the top three batteries for cars. They are very popular in the Russian market and have proven themselves due to their reliability, quality and durability. These batteries are produced using Ca / Ca technology, which extends the service life and improves the electrical performance of the device. Topla is distinguished not only by durability, but also by starting characteristics in harsh winter conditions. The average cost of such a battery is 5 thousand rubles.

No. 2. Varta

Price 7-12 thousand rubles

Varta is considered one of the recognized leaders among other batteries for cars. The high-capacity battery provides a confident start of the engine even at a temperature of minus 30 degrees. The patented Power Frame grille technology is responsible for the durability and high resistance to corrosion of the device. Varta has higher performance than its counterparts. In addition, these batteries are more environmentally friendly and emit about 20% less greenhouse gas emissions. Thanks to the sponge filter, which acts as a flame arrester, the possibility of ignition by an accidental spark is eliminated. The service life is on average 5-7 years, and the cost varies between 7-12 thousand rubles.

Best Battery #1. Bosch

Price from 7 thousand rubles

Bosch becomes the leader in the ranking of the best batteries for cars. The battery with increased capacity and reduced self-discharge rate has high performance characteristics. The battery provides start-up at temperatures down to minus 30 degrees. In the event of a deep discharge, the battery is capable of recovery. The manufacturers of the product also took care of the environment, providing a reduced level of electrolyte evaporation. The disadvantage of this device is the rapid damage when working as part of an electrical network with non-ideal characteristics, for example, with a faulty generator. It is also worth noting that the Bosch series batteries are far from the cheapest, their cost starts from 7 thousand rubles and more.

• Do not miss

Replacing the battery for a car is an urgent problem for most motorists. There are a number of decent brands that are known to many, but they are also good at producing certain types of rechargeable batteries. It is also worth considering the fact that the usual lead-acid batteries are not suitable for all motorists: it is better to use helium or AGM batteries for their cars.

So that buyers can sort out the confusion that has arisen and make a worthy choice, we offer a rating of the best and proven car batteries of all types. We also attach the result of battery tests that were conducted by the experts of the magazine "Behind the wheel"

TOP 10: Rating of the best batteries for cars for 2017-2018

Name	Type	Country of Origin	User Rating	Average price in rubles
🔋 "Optima Yellow Top 55 Ah"	helium battery	🇺🇸 USA (America)	⭐ 5 out of 5	19000 r.
🔋 "Delta GX 12-60"	helium battery	🇨🇳 China	⭐ 4.7 out of 5	11000 r.
🔋 "Tudor AGM 95"	AGM battery	🇪🇸 Spain	⭐ 4.4 out of 5	10500 r.
🔋 "BOSCH S6 AGM/S5 AGM"	AGM battery	🇩🇪 Germany	⭐ 4.8 out of 5	14500 r.
🔋 "Optima Red Top C 4.2"	AGM battery	🇲🇽 Mexico	⭐ 4.9 out of 5	14200 r.
🔋 "Topla Stop & Go"	AGM battery	🇸🇮 Slovenia	⭐ 5 out of 5	9200 r.
🔋 "VARTA Blue dynamic D43"	Lead acid battery	🇪🇺 Europe	⭐ 5 out of 5	4500 r.
🔋 "Aktekh BEAST Asia"	Lead acid battery	🇬🇧 Russia	⭐ 4.8 out of 5	4500 r.
🔋 MUTLU Calcium Silver L3	Lead acid battery	🇹🇷 Türkiye	⭐ 4.7 out of 5	5200 r.
🔋 "TYUMEN BATTERY STANDARD"	Lead acid battery	🇬🇧 Russia	⭐ 4.6 out of 5	3200 r.

Optima Yellow Top 55 Ah

The American helium battery made it into the rankings due to its several noteworthy advantages. The first of them is an indicator of the starting current: it is 765 amperes. The second feature is vibration resistance. The third significant plus is that the battery will be instantly ready for use even after a year of inactivity. By combining these positive qualities with other advantages that gel batteries provide, the buyer gets a solid and reliable car part in his hands.

⚙ Battery characteristics:

Capacity (Ah): 55
Starting current (A): 765
Polarity: Straight
Length (mm.): 255

Width (mm.): 175
Height (mm.): 205
Manufacturer: Optima
Country of origin: Mexico

✅ Advantages of the device:

• Light weight and miniature size;
• Change of position does not affect the quality of work;
• Works even with strong overloads;
• Current strength parameters;
• The build quality and the type of technology used guarantee a long service life.

❌ Battery Disadvantages:

• High price;
• It fails when working in conditions with low temperatures: the current strength parameter drops sharply.

Delta GX 12-60Ah

Unlike a competitor from the states - the firm "Optima", the parameters of the model "GX 12-60" indicate that it works confidently even at low temperatures: - 40 degrees Celsius. For the price, it is also cheaper by almost a third. In terms of other parameters, the model is comparable to its competitor: the only thing that is alarming is customer complaints about the build quality of the Chinese battery.

⚙ Battery characteristics:

Capacity (Ah): 60
Starting current (A): 600
Voltage, V: 12
Length (mm.): 258

Width (mm.): 166
Height (mm.): 206
Manufacturer: Delta
Country of origin: China

✅ Advantages of the device:

• The minimum level of self-discharge;
• Long term use;
• Stable work;
• Runs at low temperatures.

❌ Battery Disadvantages:

• More expensive than other types of batteries;
• There are complaints about build quality.

Helium batteries are the ideal battery type in terms of safety, efficiency and reliability. The battery holds a charge longer, charges faster, provides high and constant current. In addition, they do not require regular maintenance and can last almost a dozen years without replacement. Their distribution across the CIS is hindered by several significant factors: the price, the "fear" of frost and the eternal conservatism of our motorists.

"Tudor AGM 95 Ah"

Sealed maintenance-free rechargeable battery with a high current strength parameter: 850 Amperes. Like its small size, stable operation and low self-discharge. It is best suited for cars with a large engine capacity, since the battery will not be able to demonstrate its main advantages in all its glory. It has two unpleasant drawbacks: it quickly consumes a charge with intensive use and a high price.

⚙ Battery characteristics:

Capacity (Ah): 95
Starting current (A): 850
Polarity: Reverse
Length (mm.): 353

Width (mm.): 175
Height (mm.): 190
Manufacturer: Tudor
Country of origin: Spain

✅ Advantages of the device:

• Power;
• Build quality;
• Compact;
• Weighs little;
• Works reliably and without failures.

Battery cons:

• Price;
• Discharges quickly;
• Doesn't like deep discharges.

BOSCH S6 AGM/S5 AGM

A series of maintenance-free sealed batteries for the reliable operation of the most modern vehicles. Its main positive qualities: triple productivity and increased duration of work on a single charge, will be able to fully manifest only in large-sized machines.

⚙ Battery characteristics:

Capacity (Ah): 60
Starting current (A): 680
Voltage, V: 12
Length (mm.): 242

Width (mm.): 175
Height (mm.): 190
Manufacturer: Bosch
Country of origin: Germany

✅ Advantages of the device:

• Vibration resistance;
• tightness;
• Safety in use;
• maintenance free;
• It is established, both in vertical, and horizontal position.

❌ Battery Disadvantages:

• Price;
• Not for all cars: designed for SUVs and luxury cars;
• Relatively short lifespan compared to helium batteries: a two-year manufacturer's warranty.

"Optima Red Top C 4.2"

Like other AGM batteries, this battery differs from lead-acid batteries in an increased level of survivability and resistance to low temperatures. Batteries of the "Red Top" series are sealed, maintenance-free, vibration-resistant batteries with a long service life. A notable feature of the series is the increased inrush current, reaching a value of 1050 amperes.

⚙ Battery characteristics:

Capacity (Ah): 50
Starting current (A): 815
Voltage, V: 12
Length (mm.): 254

Width (mm.): 175
Height (mm.): 200
Manufacturer: Optima
Country of origin: Mexico

✅ Advantages of the device:

• Equally stably works at low and at high temperature;
• Tolerates strong vibrations;
• Fast charging;
• tightness;
• Does not require additional maintenance.

❌ Battery Disadvantages:

• Price;
• Fast discharge rate.

Topla Stop&Go 70 Ah

With it, you can easily start a car of any power. The Slovenian battery also keeps the same voltage level well in all weather conditions. The assembly is of high quality, there were no complaints about this parameter from buyers. Due to the above characteristics and low (as for AGM batteries) price, it is considered the best battery of this type in terms of price / quality ratio.

⚙ Battery characteristics:

Capacity (Ah): 70
Starting current (A): 760
Voltage, V: 12
Length (mm.): 278
Width (mm.): 175
Height (mm.): 190
Manufacturer: Topla
Country of origin: Slovenia

Device advantages:

• Minimum weight;
• Safe use;
• Vibration resistance;
• High quality workmanship.

❌ Battery Disadvantages:

• Fast discharge rate;
• Does not tolerate deep discharge.

AGM batteries are much better able to handle high levels of discharge than standard lead-acid batteries. They also do not require maintenance, take up little space and can be placed both in a horizontal and vertical position: they do not contain liquid electrolyte and you can not be afraid that it will leak out of the device case. Unfortunately, such batteries are discharged quite quickly, so it is advisable to use them only in urban areas.

VARTA Blue dynamic D43

German battery with long life: according to a number of buyers, they have used the battery of the Blue dynamic series for more than seven years without any significant negative consequences. It showed itself well when working in summer and winter, it charges quickly enough and tolerates deep discharge better than most other lead-acid batteries.

⚙ Battery characteristics:

Capacity (Ah): 60
Starting current (A): 540
Voltage, V: 12
Length (mm.): 242

Width (mm.): 175
Height (mm.): 190
Manufacturer: Varta
Country of origin: Europe

✅ Advantages of the device:

• Good workmanship;
• Long service life;
• Increased capacity level;
• For convenience of carrying it is supplied with the handle;
• Fairly low price.

❌ Battery Disadvantages:

• Requires maintenance;
• "Average" indicators of current strength and capacity.

"Aktekh BEAST Asia"

Russian lead-acid battery, specially designed to operate in low temperature environments. The addition of a silicon additive of our own design to the electrolyte helped the Aktekh company to increase the initial current strength and battery capacity. Batteries of this series last year were included in the rating of "top 100 best goods of the Russian Federation".

⚙ Battery characteristics:

Capacity (Ah): 70
Starting current (A): 700
Voltage, V: 12
Length (mm.): 231

Width (mm.): 175
Height (mm.): 221
Manufacturer: Zver
Country of origin: Russia

✅ Advantages of the device:

• Thoughtful layout and design, facilitating maintenance;
• Availability of indicators for checking the battery charge level;
• Able to deliver the required level of current even in severe frosts;
• Reasonable price.

❌ Battery Disadvantages:

• Despite the good capacity, it quickly discharges;
• Poorly tolerates "deep" discharge;
• The starting current is only suitable for passenger cars.

MUTLU Calcium Silver L3

The Turkish company has been developing and marketing lead-acid batteries for fifty years, and during this time they have created several innovative designs of their own and squeezed the most out of this technology. In batteries of the "Silver" series, when discharging, a smaller amount of lead sulfur is formed, so they are less susceptible to the aging process and will last longer for their owners.

⚙ Battery characteristics:

Capacity (Ah): 66
Starting current (A): 510
Voltage, V: 12
Length (mm.): 278

Width (mm.): 175
Height (mm.): 190
Manufacturer: Mutlu
Country of origin: Türkiye

✅ Advantages of the device:

• Low price;
• Slow "aging" of the battery;
• Very low self-discharge;
• There are indicators on the case to measure the charge level.

❌ Battery Disadvantages:

• Low capacity allows them to be used only on cars;
• The current level is below average.

TYUMEN BATTERY STANDARD

Another high-quality Russian lead-acid type battery. The main advantages of the battery are stable operation and start-up even in severe frosts and a uniform supply of current with an equally large force. Also, do not forget about the low price and the diversity of the series: it includes almost a dozen different battery models.

⚙ Battery characteristics:

Capacity (Ah): 60
Starting current (A): 520
Voltage, V: 12
Length (mm.): 242

Width (mm.): 175
Height (mm.): 190
Manufacturer: TYUMEN BATTERY
Country of origin: Russia

✅ Advantages of the device:

• Variety of models;
• Provides a stable supply of high current;
• Works even in very hard frosts;
• Low price.

❌ Battery Disadvantages:

• Short service life;
• Fast discharge rate;
• It does not tolerate "deep" discharge very well.

Lead-acid batteries are good only for their prevalence and price. Other important indicators - current strength, capacity and ability to hold a charge, are approximately at an average level. They are gradually being phased out of the market by more advanced and technologically advanced versions of batteries that do not need regular maintenance and are safer to use.