Choosing the best battery for Ham Radio Go Box is not an easy thing, especially because of the technicalities involved in the process.
People who are not quite informed about the topic might find it rather challenging to dive into all existent types of batteries and which ones fit Ham Radio Go Boxes.
It can be a daunting process, but this guide is meant to make it easier. Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding this topic, as well as examples of products that you can buy in case you don’t have one in mind already.
How to Choose The Right Battery For Ham Radio Go Box
Types of Battery (Lead-acid, SLA, Lithium-iron)
The types of batteries you will find on the market include lead-acid ones, SLAs, Lithium-Iron, and Lithium Iron Phosphate, with many other combinations available.
Some chemical combinations are safer than others, each of them coming with advantages and limitations.
Lead acid batteries are the most economical and lightweight ones, working well with small electronic devices that require portability.
A lead-acid battery works in a constant process of charging and discharging. When the battery is connected to a power consumer, such as the starter of your car, the battery discharges current, it begins to discharge.
In the reverse process, the battery begins to charge when current flows into it, restoring the chemical difference between the two plates.
This happens when you are running without auxiliary consumers and the alternator is producing and reintroducing current into the battery.
Lithium Iron batteries are still under research and development, but they are the fastest-growing system available in this niche.
Their weight is their biggest benefit and they are normally used in smart devices, as they require a protection circuit.
Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries are very common, and they are better than lead acid batteries.
They have longer durability, they required little to no maintenance at all and they are much safer compared to lead acid or other types. LiFePO4 batteries are also lightweight and they benefit from a better charging efficiency.
SLA batteries are just sealed lead acid batteries, which makes them safer and more powerful.
They are less recommended for small, portable equipment and more suitable for motorcycles, ATVs, and complex alarm systems.
Which Type of Battery is Suitable For Ham Radio Go Box & Why?
For a Ham Radio Go Box, you should opt for lightweight batteries. In this sense, the best choices you have are lead acid or LiFePO4 batteries.
Chemically, they are both what you need for this sort of purpose. It’s recommended to opt for LiFePO4 rather than lead acid because they are safer and more modern to use, requiring less maintenance and care than the lead acid ones.
LiFePO4 batteries have a very low self-discharge rate, lower than 3% per month.
This means that regardless of how long you store it without using it, it will be just fine when you go back to using the battery.
Lead acid batteries on the other hand, require special maintenance in order to avoid life span decreases.
LiFePO4 also win at the “weight” aspect, as they are small and light. They have half the mass of a lead acid battery, making them ideal for taking them on the go.
More than that, LiFePO4 batteries can be used at full capacity, compared to lead acid batteries that can be used at around 90% of their capacity.
What to Take into Account When Choosing The Best Battery For Ham Radio Go Box
Users have a couple of things that should be wary of when buying a battery for a Ham Radio Go Box replacement.
The parameters involved in choosing a battery can be quite daunting to understand at first, but this guide is meant to make it easier for you.
All batteries come with benefits and downsides, so it’s important to find the one that fits the device you’re using and the purpose you have for it. Here’s what you need to consider:
Flexibility
You can either opt for batteries that are specifically built for the device you’re trying to power up, or you can buy batteries that are highly flexible in terms of usage.
The latter option is better if you’re planning to make a more considerable investment and you want to get the best out of the product you’re buying.
The former is recommended if you know for sure that the battery will only be used for your Ham Radio Go Box.
Either way, you will need to follow the characteristics that match your requirements best.
Safety
Besides the instructions that you’ll have to respect after buying a battery, there are also types that are safer than others.
As presented above, lead-acid batteries can be less safe than LiFePO4 ones, while sealed acid batteries compensate in terms of safety, but lose ground in terms of weight.
Lithium batteries have a generally higher density than other types, the density that is influenced by the type you select as well: rechargeable or non-rechargeable.
As long as all instructions are respected, there’s no dangerous risk of hazard, but the chemical combination in batteries can be endangered if not handled correctly.
Make sure to always read the precautions and instructions that come with a battery type.
Voltage
Based on the chemical combination that the battery you selected uses, it will generate different voltages.
Something that many people believe even though it has nothing to do with the reality is that discharged batteries have 0V, which is completely false.
A battery that reads 0V when measured is a dead battery that no longer functions, as the number is shown is the output voltage which should always show the nominal voltage.
The batteries you need for a Ham Radio Go Box have a high operating voltage of anywhere between 9 to 15V.
Normally, you’ll have to look for 12V batteries, regardless of their type, and accessories might be required to make them 100% efficient.
Durability/Life Cycle
There are multiple aspects that you need to take into account the life span of a battery. First of all, consider its shelf life.
“Shelf life” refers to how much will the battery discharge when left untouched in a storage space (away from extreme conditions). Some batteries discharge tremendously, while others maintain their power for long whiles.
Batteries that sit idle for a long period of time are ideal to be used as backup system power, fire detectors, alarm triggers, and similar devices that don’t continually use energy, but only when required.
Same goes for cycle life. The batteries you look for should support up to 7000 cycles, starting at a minimum 2000 for convenient durability.
Weight
The last factor you should consider is the weight. When using a Ham Radio Go Box, the most important aspect is how lightweight the battery is.
You’ll want portability, and the best way to ensure it is by choosing a battery which is based on a lightweight chemical combination.
As presented earlier in this guide, you should consider buying a LiFePO4 or a lead-acid battery.
Regardless of the type you’re choosing, tick the weight box too by checking the number in the technical file.
A List of Top 10 Ham Radio Go Box Batteries on The Market
| Brand | Detail |
|---|---|
| UPG UB1280I | |
| ExpertPower LiFePO4 | |
| Bioenno Power LiFePO4 | |
| TalentCell LF120A1 | |
| Miady | |
| UB12120 SLA Battery | |
| Weize Sealed Lead Acid Battery | |
| Bioenno Power BLF-1215A Lithium Ion | |
| Power Sonic PS-12350 | |
| Mighty Max Battery |
What Is The Best Battery For Ham Radio Go Box?
There are plenty of products on the market that can fit the criteria that the best battery for Ham Radio Go Box should respect, but you should keep in mind one important aspect: opting for lithium batteries.
Choosing a product will be heavily influenced by your preferences – some batteries are extremely lightweight, others win a lot of points for their durability, and so on.
Why UPG UB1280I is The Best Brand For The Ham Radio Go Box Battery?
Normally, people opt for the UPG as the best brand for Ham Radio Go Box batteries, especially the UB1280I.
This happens because the product combines all the features you would need in a product of this kind, from durability to weight and all other aspects involved.
It is also a very well-reviewed product with testimonials for people all around the world, so you can’t go wrong with it.
Who Makes The Best Batteries For Ham Radio Go Box?
There are a couple of brands that are known for producing very good replacement batteries that are almost or exactly identical with OEMs.
The most commonly encountered brands for such products are UPG, Expert Power, and Miady, with a special mention for Bioenno and Talent Cell.
They all produce high-quality items, some specifically designed for Ham Radio Go Box, while others designed to be versatile and fit a wide range of electronic devices.
Top 10 Best Battery For Ham Radio Go Box – Complete Review & Buyers Guide
01. UPG UB1280I – Best Popular Battery For Ham Radio Go Box
Highlighted Features
- Can be used for a multitude of purposes
- Tech specs: 12V, 8AH, 187 terminals
- 6 x 2.5 x 5 inches
- 7 pounds
The product that starts this top is the famous UPG UB1280I that was also mentioned in the introductory FAQ section.
The reason why it is so appreciated it’s because this battery is a one-size-fits-all type of product that can be used for Ham Radio Go Box, as well as many other products on the likes of backup systems, spotlights, flashlights, lighting equipment, and many more.
Before buying, pay extra attention to sizes – the size of the battery itself in order to make sure it fits your Ham Radio Go Box and the size of the battery’s terminals.
Installation is pretty straightforward, the same as other batteries from this category. The battery is considerably heavy, so this has to be taken into account as well for shipping considerations.
Overall, UPG is one of the best buys in this sector.
Pros
- Convenient size – fits different devices
- Fit for Ham Radio Go Boxes
- 3/16” F1, the equivalent of 1/4” F2
Cons
- The needed terminal should be measured before purchasing
- Sensitive to long-distance shipping
02. Expert Power LiFePO4 Rechargeable Battery
Highlighted Features
- Sealed lead acid battery
- 2500-7000 cycles
- 12V, 50% lead acid
- Included BMS
This battery from expert power is a substantial competitor to the UPG in the battle to becoming the best battery for Ham Radio Go Box.
It is a sealed lead acid battery that can support up to 7000 cycles and can easily be recharged.
The battery is suitable for other purposes as well, from outdoor activities like camping to powering small electric devices. The product has a high energy density, supporting 12 AH, 12 V, and 153 Wh.
It has built-in safety features (the BMS) that helps with monitoring overcharging, deep discharging, overloading, overheating, short circuits, excessing discharge, and many more.
This feature keeps the user away from trouble, guaranteeing a very long-lasting usage for the battery and transforming it into a very inspired purchase.
Durable, lightweight, convenient – this LiFePO4 battery has it all and should be on your list of potential purchases for sure.
Pros
- Lightweight for easy transportation
- Increased durability
- Uses 90% of its capacity before recharges
Cons
- Operating temperatures are quite restrictive
- Storage is limited to certain conditions
03. Bioenno Power LiFePO4 BLF-1220A Lithium Battery
Highlighted Features
- Lithium iron phosphate battery
- Barrel plug discharge connector
- 40A, 20 Ah with peak pulse at 60A
- 5 x 4.31 x 3.3 inches, 5.4 lbs
This battery model will impress you through its power, all conveniently placed in small size and acceptable weight.
Bioenno Power is one of the most used Ham Radio batteries in the range of 12V 20Ah. It is part of the entry line of the brand, but it is highly appreciated and fits stationary applications – mostly for portable electronics.
It provides considerable power output and excellent performance for longer whiles.
The battery comes with an integrated PCM included for extra safety which deals with automated cell balancing and also takes care of the charging circuitry.
No EMI or RFI will be encountered with this product, not to mention that it won’t cause any beeping or other noises. Keep in mind it doesn’t come with a charger and you’ll need a 110VAC/220 VAC AC to DC one in order to get it charged.
Pros
- Perfect for long Ham Radio usage thanks to its PowerPole connectors
- Easy to carry thanks to its size and weight
- Doesn’t require an intermediate voltage booster
Cons
- Charger not included
- The maximum charge current is 6 Amps
04. Talent Cell LF120A1 Rechargeable Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery
Highlighted Features
- 8V, 12000mAh, 154.6 Wh, 32700 cells in 4S2P
- Suitable for a variety of purposes
- PCM included
- Convenient size
This product from Talent Cell is definitely one to mention in the best battery for Ham Radio Go Box top.
It brings together all the qualities you’ll need from a LiFePO4 battery, all offered in exchange for a very convenient price.
Compared to similar products, Talent Cell LF120A1 offers tremendous benefits under a budget in the 12V range.
It is compatible with plenty of devices, being suitable for powering up LED strips, digital cameras, low voltage TVs, Bluetooth speakers, and other 12V DC electronic devices, Ham Radio Go Boxes included.
This battery is undoubtedly worth a try for what it does, so no need to second guess this choice.
Pros
- Lightweight battery – can be carried on the go
- Fits Ham Radios just right thanks to the cells
- Can be connected to other devices as well
Cons
- Requires an initial heavy charge for cell balancing
- 1A load might lead to 0.5V drops
05. Miady Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery
Highlighted Features
- 12V, 6 Ah, up to 2000 cycles
- Low self-discharge
- No risk of fire
- No poisonous lead or sulfuric acid leaks
Miady produced an exquisite battery that will go just right with your Ham Radio Go Box.
Besides that, you can use this product for a variety of other portable electronic devices which means it is versatile enough not to regret the investment.
Its price is very low, making it ideal for those with lower budgets available.
It has the same voltage specifications you’ll see in more expensive versions of it and it’s also small and lightweight.
The terminals are F2 and its size is 3.58 x 2.75 x 3.97 inches, perfect for easy transportation.
As it’s a lithium battery, you won’t have to worry about lead/sulfuric acid leaks, as it uses safer and cleaner energy.
Pros
- Safe to use
- Small and light – ideal for transportation
- Convenient voltage
Cons
- No charger included
- Won’t charge completely with automatic SLA chargers
06. Universal Power Group UB12120 12AH SLA Battery
Highlighted Features
- Works as a replacement battery for certain models
- Lead acid battery sealed for extra safety
- Goes well with OEM batteries
- Covers a variety of applications
A frequently bought product, this battery from Universal Power Group is a good pick if you want to power up your Ham Radio Go Box.
It has the right voltage, the right sizes for easy transportation, and a convenient price – all in one product. It can be used as a replacement battery for many other devices and is 100% compatible with OEM batteries.
The only downside to this product is that it is absolutely required to avoid deep discharge in order to use it for long periods of time without facing damage, which can actually be tricky because of its voltage.
This is why you should only consider the UB12120 for Ham Radio Go Boxes. Other devices might require more power than this battery can offer, so you should opt for something else if you’re looking for a multi-purpose product.
Pros
- Small and lightweight
- Same specifications as OEMs
- 100% compatible with replaced batteries in small electronic devices
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a charger
- Discharge must be avoided to prevent damage
07. Weize Sealed Lead Acid Battery
Highlighted Features
- 12 Ah, F2 terminal, 20-hour performance
- 94 x 3.86 x 3.98 inches
- Made of non-conductive ABD plastic – heat resistance
- AGM tech
This product offers a lot of features for a great value. It is easy to install, it offers plenty of things and all in exchange of a reasonable price.
This offers Weize the chance to become the best battery for Ham Radio Go Box.
It offers 12 Ah along with an F2 terminal which makes it compatible with Ham Radio Go Boxes, as well as other devices like kids’ riding toys, wheelchairs, alarm systems, emergency lights, computer stand-by systems, and many more.
It is completely spill-proof, offering increased safety and requiring low-maintenance efforts.
The chemistry used combines SLA and AGM technologies and it offers the best combination on the market.
The battery comes in a very popular size, fitting most portable electronic devices, including Ham Radio Go Boxes. It is overall a great choice for its price, being highly versatile.
Pros
- Can be used with a variety of purposes thanks to the many features
- Shock resistance thanks to AGM tech
- Lightweight and convenient to carry around
Cons
- Limited by certain weather conditions
- Might need adapters/connectors for installation
08. Bioenno Power LiFePO4 BLF-1215A Lithium Iron Battery
Highlighted Features
- 12V, 15Ah
- PVC wrap for extra safety
- PowerPole connectors for good fit
- 30A max continuous discharge current with a 60A peak pulse
Bioenno already used its clients with quality products, and the BLF-1215A battery is not excluded from the list.
This LiFePO4 battery offers exactly what you would need from a product of this sort: good voltage, increased safety, and compactness.
It fits a Ham Radio Go Box just right and can be used with other devices around your house as well, such as sound amplifiers or audio-video equipment.
Overall, the product is a good choice and deserves a place in the top of the best battery for Ham Radio Go Box.
The fact that it is versatile should contribute to making a decision because the battery is multi-purpose and can come in handy for other matters.
Pros
- Compact product easy to carry around
- Fit for Ham Radio Go Boxes but also devices as well
- No EMI/RFI
- Doesn’t produce any noise
Cons
- Doesn’t include a charger
- Works best with fused protection cables
09. Power Sonic PS-12350 Battery
Highlighted Features
- 12V, 35Ah, SLA
- 72 X 5.14 X 7.00 inches, 24.70 lbs.
- Spill-proof
- Rechargeable
Products from Power Sonic are highly reputed for their long-lasting life.
If you opt for the PS-12350 battery, you’ll get the perfect voltage for your Ham Radio Go Box, along with convenient dimensions.
This battery is not as lightweight as you may expect, but it’s not as big of an issue if you put it in relation to all the benefits it brings.
It has low maintenance requirements and it uses a technology that keeps it safe from shocks or vibrations.
It’s definitely a good choice for a radio battery replacement, so take it into consideration.
Pros
- Low-maintenance requirements
- Shock/vibration resistant
- Great durability
Cons
- Heavy
- Might not charge fully
10. Mighty Max Gel Battery
Highlighted Features
- 12V, 35Ah
- Gel chemistry for extra safety
- 68 x 5.16 x 7.13 inches, 23.15 lbs.
- Maintenance-free
Mighty Max products impress through their simple features and easy maintenance process.
This battery is designed to fit Ham Radio Go Box products, acting as perfect 1:1 replacement to OEMs.
You can fully trust this product, having the perfect voltage for this purpose, as well as using gel chemistry for increased safety and low maintenance efforts involved.
The battery is indeed heavier than other products on the market, but it is a product on its own and doesn’t require accessories or additional purchases to function.
Pros
- Doesn’t require any additions in order to function
- Can be mounted in any position as long as the size fits
- Little to no maintenance efforts required
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a charger
- Shorter durability compared to other products
How Does a Battery For Ham Radio Work?
A battery stores electricity for future use. When two different materials such as positive and negative plates are immersed in an electrolyte – a solution of sulfuric acid and water – a chemical reaction occurs that develops a tension.
In a typical lead-acid battery, the voltage is about 2 volts per cell, so six cells produce a total voltage of 12 volts.
The battery immediately gives off electricity when a current circuit is created between the positive pole and the negative pole, so when an energy-consuming device, for example, a Ham Radio, is connected to it.
How Long You Can Take Backup on Ham Radio From The Battery?
Radio stations can go quite a long while on a battery. You’ll have to take into account how long you’re planning to use your Go Box on a battery, as well as what voltage requirements your device has.
Also, keep an eye on the peak current consumption and duty cycle requirements. You should opt for a battery system that uses 12V and is independent of other accessories.
In this way, you can expect up to 35 hours depending on the battery you’re purchasing.
What Size Battery Do You Need For a Ham Radio Go Box?
The usual voltage one should opt for a Ham Radio Go Box is anywhere between 9V and 15V. Make sure it won’t go over 15V.
It is recommended to choose a rather stable battery with included safety systems to rest assured that no damage will be done to your device.
Conclusion
We hope that this guide helped you choose the best battery for Ham Radio Go Box.
Be patient when researching your option before making any purchase and keep in mind that this is a long-time investment.
Take into account all aspects involved in the process and ensure that the battery fits your purposes.