Batteries in Series or Parallel: What Is Better?

Batteries are flexible energy storage solutions that offer a way to power devices wherever you need them. You can use batteries for appliances, portable devices, and even vehicles. However, not all batteries are created equal.

Manufacturers can wire their batteries in series or parallel, affecting their voltage and capacity. When looking at batteries in series or parallel, what is better?

Batteries in Series

Wiring batteries together in a series is a great way to increase available voltage, reducing the load on the device and improving power consumption. High energy storage and reduced power loss will give you more out of every charge.

You must be careful when using batteries in series to ensure you don’t accidentally damage your equipment. Each battery connected in the series needs to have the same specs to ensure it can handle the increased load without failing or becoming compromised.

Batteries in Parallel

Batteries in parallel maintain the voltage while increasing amp-hours. With more power available, you’ll have more time before your equipment runs out of energy, allowing you to get more done before charging. You can even chain multiple batteries together to improve the life of your devices.

Keep in mind that with better battery life comes increased charge times. You’ll have to remember to plug in your battery-powered devices to ensure they’re at maximum capacity before a project.

Which Is Better?

While batteries in series and parallel offer advantages, you’ll need to consider your specific needs before deciding which is best for you. Choose batteries in series if you don’t want to worry about your high-powered devices burning out. On the other hand, batteries in parallel will give you a longer run time.

When using a dual-purpose lithium marine battery, you should wire in series or parallel, depending on your situation.

Use the Right Battery for the Job

Now you know the things to consider if you’re looking at which is better between batteries in series or parallel. Whether you need more voltage or more amps, you’ll have to consider your setup carefully.

Remember that you can always combine a parallel and series connection to get the best of both worlds!