Duralast vs Odyssey Battery
When choosing an automotive battery, two big names stand out – Duralast and Odyssey. But which one is better? Here, we’ll compare the Duralast Platinum AGM and Odyssey Extreme batteries to help you decide.
Duralast vs Odyssey
To easily understand the difference, take a quick glance at the comparison table provided.
| Feature | Duralast | Odyssey |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Technology | Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) | Thin Plate Pure Lead AGM |
| Warranty | 3 years | 4 years |
| Group Size | 34 | 34 |
| Cold Cranking Amps | 740 | 850 |
| Cranking Amps | 925 | 1050 |
| Reserve Capacity | 115 min | 135 min |
| Price | $249.99 | $384.99 |
| Terminal Type | SAE – Type A | Type A/S (Dual) |
| Terminal Location | Top Right Front | Top Right Front |
| Dimensions | 10.25″ x 6.81″ x 7.88″ | 7.625″ x 6.8125″ x 8.75″ |
| Weight | 41.4 lbs | 49.5 lbs |
| Voltage | 12V | 12V |
The key difference between these two batteries is the technology. Duralast uses an absorbent glass mat (AGM), while Odyssey utilizes thin plate pure lead (TPPL) AGM. Odyssey’s advanced TPPL design allows for more power capacity in a compact size.
Battery Technology
Duralast Platinum batteries feature absorbent glass mat technology. This traps electrolyte between the lead plates and glass mat separators, making the battery spill-proof.
Odyssey Extreme batteries take AGM a step further with thin plate pure lead plates. With more plates packed into the case, Odyssey can deliver higher power density. The pure lead also enhances electrical conductivity.
Warranty
The Duralast Platinum AGM battery comes with a 3-year free replacement warranty. This covers the battery for three years against defects and failures.
The Odyssey Extreme battery offers a 4-year full replacement warranty, which is one year longer than the Duralast warranty. This provides added peace of mind for an extra year of ownership.
Group Size
The Duralast Platinum and Odyssey Extreme batteries featured here are group size 34. This means they will fit vehicles designed for that 34/78 group size battery. The larger group 34 size works well for vehicles with higher electrical demands.
Cold Cranking Amps
Cold-cranking amps measure how much power the battery can deliver to start an engine in cold temperatures. The Odyssey Extreme tops the Duralast here with 850 CCA vs 740 CCA for the Duralast.
Cranking Amps
Cranking amps indicate how much power the battery provides to start the engine under normal conditions. Again, the Odyssey bests the Duralast with 1050 amps vs the Duralast’s 925 amps.
Reserve Capacity
The reserve capacity indicates how long a battery can deliver power if the alternator fails. Odyssey leads this spec, too with 135 minutes vs. 115 minutes for the Duralast Platinum.
Price
The Duralast Platinum AGM battery is more affordable at $249.99, while the Odyssey Extreme costs quite a bit more at $384.99. The Odyssey does carry a higher upfront cost but may pay off long-term with its more extended warranty and battery lifespan.
Terminal Location
Both batteries feature a standard top post A/S terminal layout with positive on the left and negative on the right when viewing the top. This standard configuration makes for easy installation.
Dimension
The Odyssey Extreme battery is slightly larger, measuring 10.75″ x 6.8″ x 8.75″ (LxWxH) compared to the Duralast at 10.25” x 6.8” x 7.9” (LxWxH). Vehicle fit shouldn’t be an issue, but always check dimensions when replacing a battery.
Weight
The Odyssey weighs noticeably more at 49.5 pounds versus the Duralast at 41.4 pounds. This is likely due to the Odyssey’s higher lead content and greater number of plates, giving it more overall mass.
Voltage
Both batteries have a typical 12-volt automotive voltage rating. This standard voltage matches vehicle electrical systems and means no system modifications are needed.
Additional Features
The Odyssey’s pure lead plates offer longer life cycles—up to 400 cycles at 80% depth of discharge versus Duralast’s 200 cycles. This extended lifespan justifies the Odyssey’s higher initial cost for many buyers.
The leakproof Duralast uses efficient calcium alloy grids to reduce self-discharge when stored. Odyssey’s pure lead grids avoid corrosion issues associated with lead alloys.
Our Observation
Based on the specs, the Odyssey Extreme battery stands out as the best option between these two batteries. With its advanced thin plate pure lead technology, higher cold cranking amps, longer 4-year warranty, and extremely high cycle life of 3-10 years, the Odyssey is built to last.
Though it comes at a higher upfront cost, the Odyssey Extreme is worth the investment for vehicles with high power demands or owners wanting maximum life from their battery. We recommend the Odyssey for its cutting-edge design and proven ability to go the distance.
Peter Rees, your go-to car parts expert, bridges the gap between mechanics and motorists. With over decades in the automotive industry, he decodes the intricacies of vehicles in his insightful blog, steering readers toward savvy decisions and smooth rides.