This review delves into the Cyclenbatt 100Ah battery, evaluating its performance, features, and overall value. We subjected the battery to rigorous testing, including a capacity test, a cold temperature test, and a physical examination of its internal construction. Our assessment covers key aspects like its power output, temperature protection mechanisms, build quality, and user-friendliness of its accompanying Bluetooth app. We analyze both the strengths and weaknesses, providing a comprehensive overview to help potential buyers make an informed decision.This in-depth analysis explores the battery's capacity to deliver power, its performance in extreme temperatures, and the quality of its internal components. We highlight both the positive aspects, such as exceeding advertised capacity and robust low-temperature protection, and areas for improvement, including inadequate cell support and the use of thinner-than-ideal positive terminal wiring. Ultimately, we aim to provide a balanced perspective, comparing the Cyclenbatt 100Ah against similar offerings on the market, focusing on its performance relative to its price point.
Pros And Cons
- 100 amp hour charge and discharge
- Can peak at 130 amps for ~10 seconds
- Bluetooth app
- Over temperature and under temperature protection
- Passed capacity test (delivered over 103 amp hours)
- Low temperature charging protection works (disconnects charging below 32°F)
- Cells inside aren't supported well enough; cells move inside the case
- 6 gauge positive wire (reviewer prefers 5 or 4 gauge)
- No identifying sticker on battery for Bluetooth app pairing
- Uses excessive glue inside making internal components difficult to see
- Sold exclusively on Amazon (uncertainty regarding support)
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Capacity Test and Performance
The Cyclenbatt 100Ah battery underwent a rigorous capacity test using a Victron inverter and shunt. Discharging at 20 amps for approximately 5 hours, the battery delivered over 103 amp-hours. This exceeded the advertised capacity, demonstrating excellent performance.
The test confirmed the battery's ability to deliver a substantial amount of power over an extended period, making it suitable for various applications requiring reliable energy storage.
Low Temperature Performance
A cold temperature test was conducted by placing the battery in a freezer overnight. After reaching 8°F (-13°C), the charger was connected. The battery's BMS (Battery Management System) successfully prevented charging at such low temperatures, indicating effective low-temperature protection.
This feature ensures the safety and longevity of the battery in cold climates, a crucial aspect for users in various environments.
Build Quality and Internal Components
Disassembly revealed a build featuring laser-welded bus bars and shielded wiring. However, the cell support within the case was a concern. The cells exhibited noticeable movement when the battery was manipulated, indicating insufficient internal support.
While the plastic cell holders provide structural integrity, additional foam or similar material could significantly improve cell stability and prevent potential damage.
The use of excessive glue was also noted, making internal inspection challenging and possibly hindering heat dissipation. Six-gauge wire for the positive terminal was observed; a thicker gauge (4 or 5) would be preferred for the continuous output.
Bluetooth App and Additional Features
The Cyclenbatt battery integrates with a user-friendly Bluetooth app for monitoring battery status, including voltage, current, and temperature. However, the lack of a unique identifier sticker on the battery itself makes it difficult to distinguish multiple batteries in the app.
While the app provides comprehensive information, a simple identifier sticker would greatly improve usability and user experience, especially for users with multiple batteries.
Over-temperature and under-temperature protection are integrated into the BMS, ensuring safe operation across varying temperature conditions.
Overall Conclusion and Value
The Cyclenbatt 100Ah battery offers strong performance, passing the capacity test with flying colors and exhibiting effective low-temperature protection. However, the build quality presents some drawbacks, mainly the inadequate cell support leading to noticeable cell movement.
The use of a six-gauge positive terminal wire also falls slightly short of ideal. While the included Bluetooth app is convenient, the lack of a unique identifier sticker for the battery is a significant omission. The competitive pricing needs to be considered against similar batteries, like those from Watt Cycle, offering potentially better cell support and comparable features.
Overall, the battery is a decent option but may not be the best value given the minor build quality concerns and the lack of an identifier sticker. Consumers might want to compare it carefully with alternatives before making a purchase.