Universal Power Group AGM or Gel batteries –which one is right for you?

These two battery constructions are very similar, but they have distinct differences. As a result, one could be a better choice than the other in various applications or uses. Following are the features that make them alike or different:

Common Features

As an owner of a power chair, scooter or other battery-powered mobility applications, it is critical to ensure you choose the right quality battery for your equipment to maximize its performance. This guide will assist you in making that selection and provide helpful tips on how to charge, maintain and prolong the life of your battery.

  • Both Gel and AGM are valve-regulated lead-acid batteries, therefore, non-spillable.
  • Gel and AGM are both maintenance-free designs.
  • Gel and AGM are both optimized for deep-cycle operation.
  • Both battery constructions are sealed valve-regulated lead-acid, so unless abused, they will not gas.
  • These battery designs are both DOT approved for air travel. This means there is no difficulty to bring aboard an aircraft.
Differences

AGM

  • AGM batteries have higher capacity than Gel batteries in equal case sizes.
  • AGM has higher discharge rates than Gel.
  • AGM has a higher capacity (more daily range).
GEL

  • Gel construction is more temperature stable; therefore, it can operate on a wider temperature range.
  • Because Gel is more temperature stable, in some instances it can deliver a longer cycle-life than AGM (more cycles equal more daily uses).
  • Gel construction allows the lead-acid chemistry to charge more readily than AGM.
  • Gel requires a longer initial use period to reach optimal performance than AGM.
Current industry opinion about the value of the two constructions leans toward AGM, and this is reflected in the type of battery coming from the equipment manufacturers. Given that AGM has higher capacity, greater discharge capability, and is generally less expensive gives the nod to AGM. However, some users and manufacturers choose Gel, preferring the longer cycle life, daily range and wider operating temperature range. Both options are very capable of filling the demands of wheelchair and scooter applications.