Lithium (LiFePO4) Batteries: Usable Energy, Weight and Charging

Is a LiFePO4 battery worth it over lead-acid?

It depends on cycling and weight. Compare usable energy (Wh × usable depth of discharge) per kilogram and cost per kWh delivered over the cycle life stated in each datasheet — not just the price or nominal Ah.

What changes

Nominal voltage: 12.8 V for 4-cell LiFePO4 versus 12 V for lead-acid.

A built-in BMS protects the cells and can disconnect the battery; check its continuous and surge current limits against your loads.

Charging needs a lithium-compatible profile; many cells must not be charged below 0 °C unless the battery has heating.

Starting vs deep-cycle

Deep-cycle LiFePO4 batteries are not automatically suitable for engine starting; powersport starter batteries are a separate product type. Follow the manufacturer's stated application.

Real references in our catalogue

Battery references with manufacturer source
Battery	Technology	Voltage	Capacity	CCA	Approx. weight	Source
Battle Born 100Ah 12V LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery BB10012	LiFePO4	12 V	100 Ah	n/p	14.1 kg	battlebornbatteries.com
Battle Born 50Ah 12V LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery (heated) BB1250H	LiFePO4	12 V	50 Ah	n/p	10 kg	battlebornbatteries.com
Battle Born 270Ah 12V LiFePO4 Deep Cycle 8D Battery BB8D	LiFePO4	12 V	270 Ah	n/p	36.9 kg	battlebornbatteries.com
NOCO NLP14 Lithium Powersport Battery NLP14	LiFePO4	12 V	4 Ah	n/p	1.2 kg	no.co
NOCO NLP20 Lithium Powersport Battery NLP20	LiFePO4	12 V	7 Ah	n/p	1.7 kg	no.co

Select 2 to 4

Listed because the manufacturer’s data matches this category (type or technology). Being listed does not mean the battery suits your system — check its datasheet.

Frequently asked questions

Can I charge LiFePO4 with my lead-acid charger?

Only if the battery manufacturer approves that charger's voltages; equalisation or desulphation modes can damage lithium batteries.

Why does a lithium battery read 12.8 V?

Four LiFePO4 cells of 3.2 V nominal are connected in series: 4 × 3.2 = 12.8 V.