More travelers are making their way into the great outdoors than ever before, and they’re bringing their creature comforts with them. Overlanding vehicles, RVs, camp trailers, and boats all require enormous amounts of power. As these vehicles are loaded with more electronic equipment, they will undoubtedly need larger power sources. If you’re adding extra batteries to your vehicles, you’re going to need battery boxes as well. The best battery boxes protect your battery from exterior elements and also protect everything else from leaking battery acid.
We looked at dozens of battery boxes and have identified the best available for your battery needs. While reviewing these battery boxes we considered factors such as material quality, mounting versatility, and battery security options in deciding our top picks. We then put together a long list of many more great battery boxes so that you can find one to match your specific battery requirements.
After reviewing many different battery boxes we have chosen the NOCO 27 Snap-Top Box as our overall top pick. It’s a well-made, inexpensive, and secure battery box for the most common size of 12-volt battery.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Battery Boxes
| Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Battery Box Overall | NOCO 27 Snap-Top Box | 4.5 |
| Best Battery Mounting Box | Allstar Wide Steel Battery Mounting Box | 4.8 |
| Best Budget Battery Box | NOCO Group 24-31 Snap-Top | 4.1 |
| Best Marine Battery Box | Newport Vessels Smart Battery Box | 4.6 |
| Best Aluminum Battery Box | Taylor Cable Aluminum Battery Box | 4.3 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Battery Box Overall: NOCO 27 Snap-Top Box
The NOCO 27 Snap-Top Box is a durable, secure, and easy-to-use battery box. No matter where your adventures take you, whether they be by land, sea, or air, this battery box is prepared for the ride. This rugged battery box is made from impact-resistant plastic that is also resistant to UV rays, corrosive oils, gases, battery acid, and water. The handles have been reinforced to prevent cracking, and the snap-on lid has a secure, overlapping fit that will keep rain and splashing water from entering the battery chamber.
Featuring a large acid reservoir, this battery box will keep you and your vehicle safe from all battery leaks. There are four cable ports that enable you to use the battery while the lid is closed, and these ports also act as ventilation to let battery gases escape. The snap-on lid is secured by patented locking tabs that hold on tight.
This battery box measures 16.88″ by 9″ by 11.38″ and a 42″ battery hold-down strap has been included for additional security. Mounting hardware is packaged with the product, including two strong mounting bars, so that you can firmly install your battery wherever you need.
NOCO 27 Snap-Top Box Key Features:
- Designed to hold a 12-volt group 27 battery
- Features patented locking tabs for a secure lid hold
- Large battery acid reservoir and excellent ventilation
- Features four cable ports
Best Battery Mounting Box: Allstar Wide Steel Battery Mounting Box
A true steel mounting box, the Allstar Wide Steel Battery Mounting Box is the right choice for those who need an absolutely secure mount for their battery. It’s lightweight, raw steel design allows it to be bolted in place or welded directly to a vehicle’s frame. There’s no way to get a more solid mount than with a steel box such as this. Its universal design allows for most common batteries to fit within its 11 3/4″ by 7 1/4″ dimensions.
The adjustable steel holding bar can be set to three different lengths which then can be further adjusted by the bar’s angle, ensuring a proper snug fit for just about any batter that will fit in the box. As it is raw steel, you should paint this battery box in order to protect it from rust and corrosion.
It is also not fully enclosed, and so will not protect your battery from dust and water, or protect your equipment from possible battery acid leaks. You’ll want to acquire additional battery protection or use this mount only with sealed batteries. These are the sacrifices that must be made in order for it to remain lightweight at 5 pounds while also remaining extremely stable while mounted. This is a great choice for off-road vehicles because of its reliable strength. The battery box comes backed by a 90-day warranty.
Allstar Wide Steel Battery Mounting Box Key Features:
- Universal design measures 11 3/4″ wide by 7 1/4″ deep
- Lightweight steel construction weighs 5 pounds
- Adjustable steel holding bar included
- 90-day warranty
Best Budget Battery Box: NOCO Group 24-31 Snap-Top
Identical in many ways to our top overall pick, but less expensive and even more accomodating, the NOCO Group 24-31 Snap-Top battery box is an incredible value. If you want a rundown of its features, give our review of our top overall pick another read. This box is virtually identical in every single way except for one additional feature— an adjustable insert that makes for a secure fit for any batter size withing the group 24 to 31 range.
As a result of its adjustable range, this battery box is bigger than our top pick. It measures 17.63″ by 10″ by 10.5″ which gives it a bigger profile that will require more space to mount and install. The adjustable insert has six different positions that it can be locked into. It’s a sturdy piece of plastic that will securely hold your battery in place.
The additional room inside of the box can then be used for storage for tools or other equipment that you don’t mind risking to the exposure of battery acid should your battery fail.
NOCO Group 24-31 Snap-Top Key Features:
- Designed to hold a 12-volt group 24-31 battery
- Features patented locking tabs for a secure lid hold
- Large battery acid reservoir and excellent ventilation
- Features four cable ports
Best Marine Battery Box: Newport Vessels Smart Battery Box
Taking the battery box standard to a whole new level, the Newport Vessels Smart Battery Box provides waterproof external battery ports for your trolling motor, a USB port, and a 12V power port. This amazing device turns your standard group 24 or 27 battery into a marine-grade power station that can safely power your trolling motor while also charging your smartphone or almost any other device.
An LED battery monitor displays your battery’s current charge level, which is good to know when you’re relying on it to get you back to shore. For safety, this battery box features a test button as well as two circuit breakers. There is a breaker for the 60 amp trolling motor connection and a breaker for the 10 amp accessory ports. Rubberized foot inserts prevent the battery box from sliding around while on your boat.
This battery box measures 13 3/8″ by 7 3/8″ by 8 3/4″ and weighs approximately 3 pounds. Though it is waterproof against rain and splashes, it should not be completely submerged underwater. As far as we’re concerned, this is the perfect solution for small boats, canoes, kayaks, and other small watercraft that use trolling motors or otherwise need a 12V battery. The Newport Vessels Smart Battery Box comes backed by a 2-year warranty.
Newport Vessels Smart Battery Box Key Features:
- Designed to fit group 24 and 27 batteries
- External battery ports and a USB charger
- Dual circuit breakers
- 2-year warranty
Best Aluminum Battery Box: Taylor Cable Aluminum Battery Box
Made completely from aluminum, the Taylor Cable Aluminum Battery Box looks slick with its polished, reflective surface. There are a couple of primary reasons why you may want to purchase an aluminum battery box such as this one. First, it acts as a firewall between the battery and the engine bay or wherever you may install it. This firewall is required in vehicles that don’t already have a firewall that separates the battery from the driver compartment, and it just makes sense to have one no matter where you install it.
Second, it also is an attractive design. A classic car’s sparkling clean engine bay would be well complemented by such an attractive battery box. It will also look good when mounted to an exterior trailer or pickup bed. The firewall is the main benefit, though. Not only does the aluminum protect you and your vehicle from the battery should it happen to catch fire, but it can also protect your battery if another component of your vehicle catches fire. It works both ways. Plastic battery boxes will simply melt.
We like this particular aluminum battery box because it is a versatile size that can hold a wide range of common 12V battery sizes, and it features a heavy-duty welded battery hold down as well as burly mounting hardware. It’s not as strong as a steel mounting box would be, but it is still quite sturdy.
Taylor Cable Aluminum Battery Box Key Features:
- Battery box measures 13 1/2″ by 9 1/2″ by 10″
- Full aluminum construction weighs 5.8 pounds
- Heavy-duty one-piece welded battery hold down
- Mounting hardware with 3/8″ bolts included
Who Should Buy A Battery Box
Most people who buy battery boxes are adding additional batteries to their car, truck, SUV, RV, trailer, or boat. You’ll need to add more batteries to these vehicles as you add in more electronic equipment like aftermarket sound systems, overlanding refrigerators, air compressors. electric stoves, extra lighting, or any other electronic gadgets you may need. Smaller boats require external batteries to power their trolling motors. Any time you add a battery to a vehicle you should also purchase a suitable battery box for it.
When you add additional batteries to your vehicles, you’ll also need to find ways to power them, especially during the downtimes when your engine isn’t running. Large solar chargers are a great way to give your batteries a bit of extra juice between long drives.
Important Features to Consider
There are a few important considerations to think through before purchasing a battery box.
- Battery size. It’s important to know your battery’s group series number, or its physical dimensions. Purchasing the correctly-sized battery box is vital for a couple of reasons— one, so that you know the battery(s) will actually fit inside the box, and two, because the proper size will more securely hold your battery in place without it shaking around and becoming unstable.
- Mounting style and versatility. Battery boxes must be securely mounted or stored away so that they do not move around while you are driving or boating. You will need to mount your battery box in different ways depending on whether you will be putting your battery in a vehicle’s engine bay, a trailer’s exterior platform, or near a boat’s motor. Some mounts are much more stable than others, such as heavy-duty steel mounts and boxes with one-piece welded hold-down bars that can be bolted or welded onto a frame. These heavy-duty mounts are much better for offroad vehicles, whereas those that stick to paved roads won’t need a box nearly as robust a design or mounting solution.
- Battery hold. Mounting the box is one thing, but how the battery(s) is actually held inside the box is another. Choosing the proper box size and mounting it securely will help to make sure the battery stay’s put, but you may also want to purchase a battery box that has a secure bracket or strap that can be used to firmly tie down the battery into place.
- Security. Theft may be a concern. This is more of an issue if you plan to store your battery(s) externally. Some battery boxes are lockable, and these should be at the top of your shopping list for externally-stored batteries on RVs and campers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do battery boxes do?
Battery boxes are most often used for mounting additional batteries to your car, truck, RV, camp trailer, or boat. They can also be used to replace your vehicle’s existing battery box or mount.
Battery boxes protect your battery from external elements such as water and dust, while also keeping in any battery acid or otherwise corrosive material that may leak from the battery. A well-mounted and appropriately sized battery box will keep your battery in a stable position, reducing swaying movements and vibration.
How do you secure a battery box?
Most battery boxes can be directly mounted to metal, plastic, or wooden surfaces. Properly securing your battery box is important, and doing so depends on where you will be placing it. Inside if a vehicle’s engine bay, you will likely be able to mount the battery box on a body panel or the vehicle’s frame. Elsewhere, such as on a boat, you may need to build a secure platform or housing that can be used to mount and store the battery box. RV and camper trailers will likely have areas dedicated for mounting battery boxes.
Do boat batteries need to be in a box?
It’s a good idea, even if modern sealed batteries don’t require it. A battery box will capture any acids that may leak out of a battery, which is something you don’t want to get on yourself, on your boat, or in the water.
When should I add a second battery to my car or RV?
The simple answer is when your original battery is no longer powerful enough. As you add in more electronic equipment to your vehicle or camper, you’re going to need to draw more power. A single car or RV battery will drain quickly when battery-powered appliances such as refrigerators, powerful aftermarket sound systems, or compressors are in use. You may end up with a dead battery before you know it, and then will be unable to start your vehicle. Once you start adding electronic gadgets to your setup, you’re going to want a secondary battery to do the heavy lifting when your vehicle’s engine is off.
Other Battery Boxes We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other battery boxes. Even though they didn’t make our five best battery box device list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for storing your batteries. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Aluminum Battery Boxes
CXRacing Polished Aluminum Battery Box
The CXRacing Polished Aluminum Battery Box has been designed to fit batteries of most sizes. It is entirely constructed of aluminum and includes a heavy-duty one-piece welded battery hold down to ensure that your battery never comes loose.
Key Features:
- Measures 12.5″ x 8.5″ x 10.5″x
- Mounting hardware included
- Heavy-duty welded battery hold down included
Cost: $130
An extra-large battery box that can store up to four group-31 batteries, the Iconic MetalGear Battery Box is ideal for heavy-duty situations. This diamond plate aluminum box is best used for industrial operations, semi-trucks, and large RVs.
Key Features:
- Lightweight 0.125″-thick aluminum
- Stores up to four group-31 batteries
- In-frame no drill mounting kit included
Cost: $485
The RV Armor Battery Lock Box is the safest way to store your external RV batteries. There are pre-drilled mounting holes and an extra three knockout holes that allow you to tailor its installation to your unique configuration.
Key Features:
- Gloss black diamond plated aluminum
- Three optional knockout holes for different RV configurations
- Fits 2 group-24 batteries
Cost: $300
A stylish polished aluminum battery box, the Taylor 200 Series Box will look great on any rig. It provides an excellent firewall between the battery and the area that it is mounted. Full mounting hardware is included.
Key Features:
- Measures 11.25″ x 9.5″ x 8.75″
- Mounting hardware included
- Heavy one-piece battery hold down
Battery Boxes
The Attwood Group 27 Box is made to exceed ABYC and U.S. Coast Guard standards for battery boxes. It is made of acid-resistant polypropylene for enhanced safety.
Key Features:
- Fits series 27 batteries
- Polypropylene with true acid resistance
- Durable straps with 350-pounds of holding force included
Cost: $18
Made to hold two 6V group GC2 batteries, the Camco HS Double Battery Box measures 21.5″ by 7.4″ by 11.2″ and is secured by two durable straps.
Key Features:
- Holds 2 6V group GC2 batteries
- Includes 2 straps and 4 clamps
- Polypropylene construction
Cost: $35
NOCO Commercial-Grade Battery Box
The NOCO Commerical-Grade Battery Box is a large box made for everything from industrial to boat and RV use. It measures 24.4″ by 15.4″ by 12.3″ and has two screw-in lid fasteners for a secure hold.
Key Features:
- Dual lid screw fastening system
- Can withstand temperatures down to -40-degrees Fahrenheit
- Water and acid resistant
Cost: $80
The NOCO Dual 6V Battery Box is much like the aforementioned box, but with different dimensions. It features large cable holes that also provide ventilation for battery gases and it has a large battery acid reservoir.
Key Features:
- Designed to fit two 6V GC2 batteries
- Can withstand temperatures down to -40-degrees Fahrenheit
- Water and acid resistant
Cost: $80
Including all of the features of the previous two battery boxes, the NOCO Dual L16 Battery Box is another great commercial-grade box, but this one is designed to fit two L16 batteries. It’s water and UV resistant.
Key Features:
- Designed to fit two L16 batteries
- Can withstand temperatures down to -40-degrees Fahrenheit
- Water and acid resistant
Cost: $135
The NOCO Single 6V Box is a versatile box that can be used in any number of applications that require a single 6V battery.
Key Features:
- Fits a single 6V GC2 battery
- Patented locking “snap” tabs
- Can be used in cars, RVs, marine applications, and more
Battery Mounting Boxes
ICT Billet Universal Battery Tray
The ICT Billet Universal Battery Tray is a slick-looking battery mount that can replace your vehicle’s existing mount or be used to relocate your battery.
Key Features:
- Heavy-duty 3/8″ billet aluminum
- Fits batteries up to 10.5″ x 6.95″ x 6.7″
- Fits most cars and trucks
Cost: $70
Southwest Speed Bolt-On Battery Box
Featuring an adjustable bolt-on design, the Southwest Speed Bolt-On Battery Box can accommodate batteries of various sizes. Its lightweight steel construction is exceptionally strong and weighs under 4 pounds.
Key Features:
- Steel construction
- Battery box measurement is 7 1/8″ deep by 9″ wide
- Mounting hardware included
Cost: $45
Speedway Motors Steel Battery Box
The Speedway Motors Steel Battery Box is a dropout box that allows you to install your battery out of the way while still maintaining access when you need it.
Key Features:
- Accepts batteries up to 10.5″ x 7″ x 8″
- Locks in multiple positions
- Dropout battery style mount
Cost: $110
A sturdy steel mounting box, the Trail Gear Battery Box is a solid choice for your off-road rig. It weighs a hefty 5 pounds and arrives as raw steel that needs to be painted to protect it for the long haul.
Key Features:
- Fits Optima group 34/78 batteries
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Mounting hardware not included
Marine Battery Boxes
The MinnKota Power Center is a trolling motor power solution for boats that do not have dedicated built-in battery compartments. The easy-access terminals provide simple and safe electricity access, and the built-in battery meter lets you know how much juice you have left.
Key Features:
- Designed to fit group 24 and 27 batteries
- Easy-access battery terminals
- Built-in battery meter
Cost: $60
A simple waterproof battery box, the Moeller Marine Sierra will keep your battery safe and dry when not in use.
Key Features:
- Measures 14.19″ x 9.69″ x 10″
- Overlapping lid design keeps water out and battery acid in
- Secure hold-down strap included
Cost: $16
This larger Moeller Marine Battery Box measures 25″ by 15.5″ by 27.5″ for bigger marine batteries. A secure hold-down strap and complete mounting hardware are both included.
Key Features:
- Designed to hold a series 27, 30, or 21 battery
- Complete with hold-down strap and mounting hardware
- Overlapping lid design keeps water out and battery acid in
Budget Battery Boxes
Allstar Lightweight Battery Mounting Box
A secure mounting box that arrives as raw, untreated steel, the Allstar Lightweight Battery Mounting Box can be bolted or welded into place. It can fit a variety of different battery sizes, and it should be painted to prevent rust.
Key Features:
- Measures 9 1/2″ x 7 1/4″
- Lightweight steel construction weighs 4.3-pounds
- Raw steel may be welded or bolted for installation
Cost: $30
A large battery box at a budget price, the Camco Heavy Duty Battery Box is a true value buy. This box can accommodate multiple battery sizes and includes a full hold-down and mounting equipment kit.
Key Features:
- Fits group 27, 30, and 31 batteries
- Measures 7 1/4″ x 13 1/4″ x 8 5/8″
- Includes woven hold-down strap and mounting hardware
Cost: $12
If you don’t need a large battery box, then the Camco Standard Battery Box is just a good value for anyone with a common group-24 battery. A hold-down strap and mounting hardware are both included.
Key Features:
- Fits group size 24 batteries
- Measures 7 1/4″ x 10 3/4″ 8″
- Strap and mounting hardware included
Cost: $12
