Lithium batteries have several great advantages compared regular deep cycle, lead acid batteries. First and foremost, lithium batteries can have up to six times more life cycles than a standard deep cycle battery. With both types of batteries, the depth of discharge will determine the life expectancy of your battery. It is recommended to not exceed more than 50% Depth of Discharge (DOD) on any battery. You can discharge the lithium battery to significantly below 50%, but you will get significantly fewer recharge cycles, as you would with any battery chemistry. (Extreme temperature usage, either high or low, also adversely affects any type of battery’s potential cycle count.)
Secondly, lithium batteries have a greater power to weight ratio. Lithium batteries can provide 100 to 120 amps at just around 30 pounds. To achieve that with lead acid batteries you would be closer to 100 pounds in batteries. Weight is super important to the RV’er looking to build a large battery bank. On the other end, tiny trailers have become very popular because they can be towed by almost anything. Weight savings here can be critical when you may already be pushing maximum weights of your tow vehicle. The great power to weight ratio is also excellent for the RV’er who likes to boondock camp.
The biggest drawback to lithium batteries at this time is cost. They are crazy expensive!! On average a lithium battery is going to cost you around $1000 and up and that is just the battery. It is also recommended to change the charger so you can adequately charge the battery.
