Lithium Battery Showdown: Enerdrive B-TEC vs. Renogy Core Series

By Bree Wilkie Posted 27 March 2024 (2 reviews)

In the world of off-grid power solutions, lithium batteries have emerged as game-changers, offering superior performance, longevity, and efficiency, compared to traditional lead-acid counterparts. In this comparison blog, we'll pit two heavyweights against each other: the Enerdrive ePOWER B-TEC 200Ah 12V Lithium Battery and the Renogy 200Ah Core Series Deep Cycle Iron Phosphate 12V Lithium Battery.

Performance and Capacity:

The Enerdrive B-TEC boasts a generous 200Ah capacity, providing ample power for various applications such as camper trailers, 4WDs, caravans, and small watercrafts. With a maximum discharge current of 200A (for 30 minutes) this battery can power inverters up to 2000W. With an 80% depth of discharge for up to 2000 cycles you can count on high performance for years to come.

On the other hand, the Renogy Core Series Battery also offers a true 200Ah capacity with the added advantage of a positive capacity tolerance of up to 6%, providing extra power beyond its rated capacity. Moreover, Renogy's battery is expandable, meaning more batteries can be used simultaneously) by up to 16 units for maximum power, making it suitable for larger-scale off-grid setups. This battery boasts a long cycle life of 5000 cycles at 80% depth of discharge.

Battery Management System (BMS) and Protection:

Both batteries feature advanced Battery Management Systems to monitor and optimise cell performance, protecting against overcharge, over-discharge, over-temperature, and short circuit.

The Enerdrive B-TEC 12V lithium battery with an in-built battery management system (BMS), includes a restart button for easy recovery, system integration, enhancing user convenience and flexibility. Renogy's Core Series 12V Lithium Battery also offers a reliable BMS, ensuring safe and efficient operation even under high discharge currents. Additionally, it incorporates a low-temperature cut-off feature for safer charging in colder climates, a valuable addition for users in diverse environmental conditions.

Monitoring and Connectivity:

Enerdrive's B-TEC battery integrates wireless Battery Monitoring Technology, allowing users to monitor vital parameters such as capacity, voltage, current, state of charge, state of health, temperature, cycles, alarms, and more via a smartphone app. This real-time monitoring capability provides users with invaluable insights into their battery's performance and status, enhancing overall system management.

While Renogy's Core Series 12V Lithium Battery does not offer wireless monitoring, its robust BMS ensures reliable performance and protection, albeit without the added convenience of smartphone connectivity. Renogy has a wide range of quality battery monitors at an affordable price.

Size, Weight, and Construction:

In terms of size and weight, both batteries offer compact dimensions and significant weight savings compared to lead-acid alternatives, making them ideal for space-constrained applications and easy transportation.

The Enerdrive B-TEC 12V lithium battery features raised terminals for 360-degree cable connections and a redesigned battery case for easy serviceability, enhancing user convenience during installation and maintenance. Renogy's Core Series Battery boasts IP65 protection, safeguarding it against dust and water ingress, ideal for outdoor and marine environments. Both batteries are made with a high-impact ABS plastic construction for durability and longevity, ensuring reliable performance in various operating conditions.

Comparison Table:

Feature:	Enerdrive B-TEC	Renogy Core Series
Capacity	200Ah	200Ah
Size	505 x 173 x 265 mm	522 x 240 x 219 mm
Weight	25 kg	21.45 kg
Battery Management System (BMS)	Yes (with restart button and RS485 port)	Yes (200A BMS with low-temp cut-off)
Monitoring	Wireless smartphone monitoring	N/A
Connectivity	RS485 communications port	N/A
Construction	High-impact ABS plastic	High-impact ABS plastic with IP65 rating
Cycle Life (80% DOD)	≥ 2000 Cycles	5000 Cycles (80% DOD)
Charge Temperature Range	0°C to 45°C	0°C to 55°C
Discharge Temperature Range	-20°C to 60°C	-20°C to 60°C
Protection Rating	N/A	IP65
Maximum Continuous Charge Current	150A @ 25°C for 30mins	100A
Maximum Continuous Discharge Current	200A @ 25˚C ±5˚C for 30 mins	200A
Warranty	5 Years	5 Years

In conclusion, both the Enerdrive ePOWER B-TEC 200Ah 12V Lithium Battery and the Renogy 12V 200Ah Core Series Deep Cycle Iron Phosphate 12V Lithium Battery offer impressive performance, reliability, and versatility for off-grid power applications. While the Enerdrive B-TEC excels in wireless monitoring and user-friendly features, the Renogy Core Series Battery stands out with its expandable capacity and rugged IP65 protection.

Ultimately, the choice between these two batteries depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the user, with both options offering exceptional value and performance in the realm of lithium battery technology.

View Dometic and Renogy's full range of Lithium Batteries here or speak to our expert team on 1300 400 122 with any product related questions!

DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.