Heavy SLA batteries

[TexasTuff]

Today I went to WalMart and in the toy section they had 12v SLA batteries. There was a 12v 12ah for about $69. There was a 12v 9.5ah for about $59.
The 9.5ah battery weighted a lot more than the 12ah battery. Is there a difference in the quality of SLA batteries and how much they weight?

I bought batteries on the internet at half the cost but still curious about the weight.

 

[dogman dan]

The thicker plates work better on EV, or other deep cycle use. So often the good stuff weighs more.

 

[Dauntless]

How do we READILY identify better for deep cycle, besides just heavier?

 

[dogman dan]

Find the exact battery manufacturers number, and start looking at the specs. Compare them with one of the better SLA's such as the B&B EV grade batteries. See if they stack up there. Look for EV use ratings. The batteries for toys at walmart are an EV grade, but maybe not the best price. Depends on how much shipping is from cheaper sources.

But in general, if the lead isn't there, it's not there. Thin lacy plates are for starting batteries, not deep cycle. The proof is in the cycle lifespan of the thicker plates that have more space between the plates, which won't sulfite as fast as a starter battery.