A gel battery is a type of lead-acid battery. The main difference between gel batteries and other lead-acid batteries (and where they get their name from) is the internal material: Gel batteries contain silica in their internal electrolyte mixture, which creates a gel-like substance. We'll leave you with all the details that distinguish these two battery chemistries from each other, but it's important to know that gel batteries allow more power to be packed into a lead-acid battery case.

    Gel Batteries vs Standard Lead Acid Batteries

    A gel battery is a sealed lead-acid battery much like an Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery. Because they're "sealed," gel batteries don't need to check and monitor water levels like standard lead-acid options, nor do they need to vent gas. These factors generally make gel batteries a safer option than traditional lead-acid batteries, as they are more of a "set it and forget it" product

    Since gel batteries have different internal consistency, you can install them in various orientations and positions. Combining this with lower/absent fumes emitted during operation makes gel batteries suitable for situations where ventilation is restricted.

    Gel Batteries vs AGM Batteries

    Gel batteries and AGM batteries are both sealed lead acid batteries and have many similar applications. The main difference between the two technologies is their charge rate - AGM batteries are better at handling higher charge and discharge rates than gel batteries. In general, gel batteries are still a solid choice for projects involving very slow, deep discharges. Additionally, gel batteries tend to last longer at high temperatures, another reason why gel technology performs better in poorly ventilated areas.