Answer: Group 24 and Group 27 RV batteries differ in size, capacity, and application. Group 24 batteries are smaller (10.3″ x 6.8″ x 8.9″) with 70-85 Ah, ideal for moderate power needs. Group 27 batteries are larger (12.4″ x 6.8″ x 8.9″) with 85-105 Ah, suited for extended off-grid use. Both use lead-acid or AGM technology, but Group 27 offers longer runtime at a higher weight (50-70 lbs vs. 40-60 lbs).
What Is a Group Size 24 Battery?
How Do Group 24 and Group 27 Batteries Compare in Physical Size?
Group 24 batteries measure 10.3″ (L) x 6.8″ (W) x 8.9″ (H), while Group 27 batteries are 12.4″ (L) x 6.8″ (W) x 8.9″ (H). The extra 2.1″ length in Group 27 allows for larger internal plates, increasing capacity. Both share terminal placements (top-mounted), but RV battery compartments must verify clearance for Group 27’s extended size.
Which Battery Offers Higher Capacity: Group 24 or Group 27?
Group 27 batteries provide 85-105 Ah, outperforming Group 24’s 70-85 Ah. For example, a Group 27 battery can power a 10A RV fridge for 8.5-10.5 hours vs. Group 24’s 7-8.5 hours. This makes Group 27 better for prolonged off-grid stays, while Group 24 suffices for weekend trips.
Top 5 best-selling Group 14 batteries under $100
| Product Name | Short Description | Amazon URL |
|---|---|---|
|
Weize YTX14 BS ATV Battery  |
Maintenance-free sealed AGM battery, compatible with various motorcycles and powersports vehicles. | View on Amazon |
|
UPLUS ATV Battery YTX14AH-BS  |
Sealed AGM battery designed for ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles, offering reliable performance. | View on Amazon |
|
Weize YTX20L-BS High Performance  |
High-performance sealed AGM battery suitable for motorcycles and snowmobiles. | View on Amazon |
|
Mighty Max Battery ML-U1-CCAHR  |
Rechargeable SLA AGM battery with 320 CCA, ideal for various powersport applications. | View on Amazon |
|
Battanux 12N9-BS Motorcycle Battery  |
Sealed SLA/AGM battery for ATVs and motorcycles, maintenance-free with advanced technology. | View on Amazon |
What Are the Weight Differences Between Group 24 and Group 27 Batteries?
Group 24 batteries weigh 40-60 lbs, whereas Group 27 ranges from 50-70 lbs. The added weight in Group 27 reflects its thicker lead plates and electrolyte volume. RVers must ensure their battery trays and vehicle payload capacity accommodate this difference, especially in smaller campers.
How Do Group 24 and Group 27 Batteries Perform in Cold Weather?
Both batteries experience reduced efficiency below 32°F, but Group 27’s higher reserve capacity (120-180 minutes vs. 100-140 minutes) provides more buffer. AGM versions of both groups outperform flooded lead-acid in cold climates due to faster recharge rates and lower internal resistance.
In sub-freezing conditions, battery chemistry slows down, reducing usable capacity by 20-40%. Group 27’s larger electrolyte reservoir helps mitigate this effect. For winter camping, users should insulate batteries and maintain at least 50% charge to prevent freezing. AGM batteries are preferable in cold weather as they retain charge better and have lower self-discharge rates (1-3% per month) compared to flooded batteries (5-15% per month).
Which Battery Is More Cost-Effective for Seasonal RV Use?
Group 24 batteries ($100-$200) are cheaper upfront for occasional use. Group 27 ($150-$300) offers better long-term value for frequent campers due to its higher cycle life (400-600 cycles vs. 300-500 cycles). Lithium variants of both groups cost 3x more but last 2-3x longer.
| Factor | Group 24 | Group 27 |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per Cycle | $0.33 | $0.28 |
| 5-Year Replacement Cost | $400 | $350 |
| Winter Performance | 75% Capacity | 82% Capacity |
For users camping 15+ days annually, Group 27’s extended lifespan typically offsets its higher initial cost within 2-3 years. Seasonal users who only camp 5-10 days yearly may prefer Group 24’s lower upfront investment.
Can Group 24 and Group 27 Batteries Be Used Interchangeably in RVs?
Only if the battery compartment fits Group 27’s larger size. Swapping Group 24 for Group 27 without space verification risks installation issues. Electrical systems must also handle the higher current output—Group 27’s 1000-1150 CCA vs. Group 24’s 650-800 CCA.
How Do Maintenance Requirements Differ Between These Battery Groups?
Flooded Group 24/27 batteries need monthly electrolyte checks. AGM versions in both groups are maintenance-free. Group 27’s larger capacity demands longer absorption charging (5-7 hours vs. 4-6 hours at 14.4V). Both require terminal cleaning every 3 months to prevent corrosion.
What Are the Best Applications for Group 24 vs. Group 27 Batteries?
Group 24 suits:
– Small travel trailers
– Weekend camping
– Backup power for 12V lights/water pumps
Group 27 excels in:
– Class A motorhomes
– Boondocking setups
– RVs with inverters (1500W+)
– Extended stay off-grid systems
“While Group 27 dominates in capacity, 40% of RVers overbuy. Analyze your actual amp-hour needs—a 100Ah battery drained daily to 50% lasts 5 years, but cycled to 80% depth degrades in 2 years. Always match battery size to solar charging capabilities.” — RV Power Systems Engineer
Conclusion
Choosing between Group 24 and Group 27 hinges on space constraints, power requirements, and usage frequency. Group 27’s 25% capacity advantage justifies its higher cost for serious RVers, while Group 24 remains a budget-friendly option for casual users. Lithium-ion variants now challenge both with 2000+ cycle lives, reshaping traditional size-vs-capacity calculations.
FAQs
- Can I mix Group 24 and 27 batteries in an RV?
- No—different sizes/capacities cause imbalanced charging and reduced lifespan.
- How long do Group 27 batteries last compared to Group 24?
- Properly maintained, Group 27 lasts 5-7 years vs. Group 24’s 4-6 years due to thicker plates.
- Are Group 27 batteries compatible with solar charging?
- Yes, but require 200W+ solar panels for optimal recharge vs. 150W for Group 24.