Updated January 2, 2024
Table of Contents
Victron Energy BMV-712 Smart Battery Monitor
- Standard Victron Energy BMV-712 with the addition of the optional Battery Temperature Sensor.
Victron Energy BMV-712 is the best RV battery monitoring system available on the market. The robust battery monitor is known for its incredible features. If you have a 40ft motorhome, which needs a large battery bank power supply to power LED lights, refrigerators, water pumps, etc., you would like to have a device that shows the exact battery status of your RV .
The usability of the battery monitoring systems is only increased by its other features, such as its easy programming process. It has an easy-to-use installation menu to ensure the task runs smoothly. I couldn’t tell you how much this look has made my life so much more manageable while using the device. This 12-volt battery meter even comes with an additional input, which can be used to track the voltage, temperature, or midpoint voltage of a second battery. It’s a fully-featured monitor ready to ensure your rig’s batteries are always in top condition.
The Victron battery capacity voltage monitor is a 12V battery monitor that is perfect for campervans. The RV battery monitoring system is solid, durable, and has various functions that make it stand out from the rest of the battery monitors. It comes with a battery balancer of 24V. Victron battery monitor has Bluetooth technology that allows you to check the remaining battery capacity (battery life) on your smartphones remotely. Moreover, it is easy to program. The detailed setup menu also you to modify or change settings very quickly. It is easy to install. It comes with a separate front bezel that allows you to choose between a square or a round lcd display. You can do either a front installation with the help of rings, or you can do a rear mounting with the help of securing rings.
Victron BMV-712 Battery Monitor with Battery Temperature Sensor is the Best RV Battery Monitor in 2023
Bogart Engineering TRIMETRIC Battery Monitor
The Bogart Engineering TRIMETRIC Battery Monitor is an off-grid battery monitoring and maintenance solution that is one of the Best RV Battery Monitors. It gives you crucial information such as charge rate, voltage, and current, as well as the ability to calculate a variety of additional data.
The first thing we noticed about the TRIMETRIC monitor was that it was not flush mounted. It has two mounting screws along the back but protrudes roughly an inch from the surface it’s fixed on. This isn’t a problem if it’s hidden behind a panel, but if you plan to hang it on the wall of your RV, it may snag as you go past it.
The interface isn’t very user-friendly. To figure out how to navigate the various menus, you’ll need to read the handbook backwards and forwards, and preferably keep it on hand for future reference. The information it can provide is useful, but it is not as easy to reach or understand as it is with some other battery meters.The inclusion of a low/overcharged battery alarm was a great idea. If the monitor detects conditions that may cause your battery to fail, it will sound an audible warning to inform you.
It’s more of a commercial-grade battery monitor that can be utilized for consumer applications than a genuine consumer-facing product. It might be a really good option if you have the knowledge to exploit this information.
ANCEL BM300 Bluetooth Voltmeter
- 🔋【Essential Tool for Your Garage】Don't let your car battery suffer from the damaging effects of disuse or harsh climates. BM300 can help monitor your battery health, including Voltage, Cranking, Charging system and travel records. Quickly reads data (Accuracy over 99.5%) to determine if the car battery is abnormal and take appropriate measures to protect the battery.
The Ancel BM300 battery monitor for recreational vehicles has pretty much everything that RVers expect from battery monitors. With Bluetooth connectivity, the BM300 allows users to remotely monitor their battery bank and devise appropriate remedies to probable problems. Furthermore, Ancel’s battery monitor is designed with a fast refresh rate for real-time monitoring of battery banks. As a result, if you have Ancel BM300 on your setup, handling batteries will be a breeze.
Ancel’s battery monitor is easily compatible with AGM, gel, and other types of batteries, thus compatibility is usually not an issue for this Best RV Battery Monitors. Furthermore, when compared to other RV battery monitors on the market, the BM300 is fairly tiny, saving room inside recreational vehicles. In terms of installation, the Ancel BM300 setup method is simple, so you don’t need to be an expert mechanic to get it up and running. The Ancel battery monitor would perform flawlessly for years if properly positioned and protected.
Ancel’s BM300 is unique in that it can analyze the status of battery banks and record one month’s worth of data. As a result, with Ancel’s battery monitor, maximizing battery lifespan is usually a piece of cake.
Blue Sea Systems M2 OLED Digital Meters
- Accurately measures and monitors State-of-Charge of 1 bank.
Blue Sea System M2 is equipped with an OLED display that is viewable throughout the day, making it easy to verify readings. Equipped with automatic dimming, the Blue Sea Systems Battery Monitor screen adjusts its brightness according to ambient lighting. As a result, for RVs who hate constantly calibrating their gear on the road, the M2 is certainly a worthwhile investment. Finally, with an IP66 degree of protection, Blue Sea Systems M2 is resistant to drops of water.
The battery monitor made by Blue Sea Systems comes at a high price point, but it would save RV enthusiasts money in the long run. To reassure potential customers, Blue Sea Systems even backs M2 with a three-year warranty. So those who choose to take Blue Sea Systems M2 have something to rely on if something goes wrong.
Bayite DC 6.5 100V 0-100A LCD Display Digital Multimeter with 100A Current Shunt
- Test range: Voltage: DC 6.5~100V; Current: 0~100A; Power: 0~10kW; Energy: 0~9999kWh
Bayite DC 6.5 100V 0-100A Battery Monitor is a fashionable choice among RV and RV owners. Its popularity comes from its simple design and basic functionality. Sometimes choosing a simplistic product is the right way to go with these devices. The LCD screen on this model caught my eye. It can display vital information necessary to keep your computer’s batteries in good condition, such as current, voltage, power, and energy. You should also appreciate the overall versatility of this product. It is considered a 4-in-1 device, which means that it can function as a power meter, ammeter, multimeter, and voltmeter. As a result, this RV monitoring system will allow you not to have to purchase these meters separately.
This may be the best RV battery monitor for those who need an easy-to-use product, once you have it installed. It has a large digital screen. Also, it has a built-in multimeter. It can read both amps and volts, giving you more accurate information about stored energy and energy consumption. The test range is 6.5 to 100 volts. It can measure current from 0 to 100 amps. It can measure energy up to 10 kilowatts. You can store information when the power is off, so you can compare the current reading with the last one. On the other hand, the device can reset itself as long as a very high current is flowing through it. In addition, it has an overload alarm. This takes some of the guesswork out of battery monitoring.
This RV battery monitor is a durable and rugged product that is capable of performing extremely well in a harsh mobile environment. Its large screen simultaneously displays power, voltage, active power, and current, making it one of the best options available. The overload alarm feature ensures user safety, while the flashing backlight feature alerts RV owners if power exceeds capacity.
AiLi Voltmeter
- Read your battery bank like a fuel gauge, battery status at a glance.
AiLi battery monitor is not only intuitive and functional, but it is also simple to use as well. You will not have a hard time figuring out how to use it. AiLi RV battery monitor can work as a volt meter, ammeter, and a current meter. You can keep an eye on the battery status without having to buy multiple devices.
This is a basic battery monitor. It looks like a fuel gauge, so it is easy to read. The small display can show amp-hours, voltage, and estimated battery capacity. This unit has slightly better than average accuracy. The manufacturer says it can read both voltage and current plus or minus one percent of the actual value. It’s actually about a small percentage, but it’s better than the units we said were up to 15% off. The voltage reading is more accurate than the current reading. One problem with current monitoring is that it cannot read more than 100 amp hours. Only the Victron can read higher amp-hours.
Moreover, this battery system can be used anywhere from boats to caravans, to motor homes. It has an affordable price as well. You can change the display on the monitor so that it will show the status of the lithium battery in the form of an analog fuel gauge. You can keep an eye on the charge and discharge current, the battery voltage, the charge, and the remaining capacity of the battery.
AiLi Voltmeter with Battery Temperature Sensor is the Best RV Battery Monitor
DROK Battery Monitor
- APPLICABLE BATTERY --- DROK digital battery monitor is suitable for 10-100V (12v 24v 36v 48v 60v 72v 96v) lithium battery, lead-acid battery, lithium iron phosphate battery, Ni MH battery. Default 12 volt lead acid battery.
DROK’s global compatibility allows it to work with a wide range of current batteries, including lead-acid, lithium, Ni-Mh, and others. If your rig’s battery bank has more than one type of battery, you should consider adding this rv battery monitoring system. Furthermore, because it is equipped with a protective shell that protects it dustproof and waterproof, the DROK battery monitor outperforms standard models in terms of endurance. Assuming that recreational vehicle owners do not abuse it, DROK 2001710003 should last for several trip seasons.
The DROK battery monitor features a flush LCD display for interface, allowing RVers to monitor vital metrics such as battery capacity, temperature, and voltage. RV enthusiasts only need to press the arrow key to cycle through the values. When it detects that the battery voltage is dwindling, it will promptly generate visible and auditory warnings to alert people. Because the DROK battery monitor has an on/off switch built in, you may deactivate it without severing the wiring connection.
DROK’s maintenance is simple, therefore keeping it up and running is by all accounts a piece of cake. Unsurprisingly, many RVers who like to spend more time traveling and less time maintaining their equipment consider 2001710003 to be the greatest RV battery monitor.
INNOVA 3721 Battery and Charging System Monitor
- Easily plugs into vehicle’s cigarette lighter or power receptacle to monitor battery and charging system voltage
The Innova 3721 is designed to plug straight into the cigarette lighter to monitor battery and charging voltages. It is simple to use and installs in seconds. Naturally, 3721 is treasured by RV owners who lack the time and patience to set up a sophisticated RV battery monitor panel with time-consuming installations. Furthermore, because the Innova battery monitor is a quick-detach device, RVers might reclaim use of the cigarette lighter at any moment. Innova 3721 requires little care from individuals during operation due to its simple maintenance.
RVers would have no problems monitoring the status of the battery bank on the road thanks to the LED display of the Innova battery monitor. Furthermore, by keeping an eye on the 3721’s indication lights, individuals can effortlessly deduce the charging stage. Because the display and indication lights on the Innova 3721 are located on a rotating head, changing the viewing angle is a piece of cake. As a result, Innova’s battery monitor outperforms several of its competitors in terms of simplicity of monitoring readings.
In terms of affordability, the Innova 3721 is reasonably priced, so you won’t have to empty your cash to buy it. As proof of its confidence, Innova offers a one-year warranty on its battery monitor.
Renogy 500A Battery Monitor
- 【1% Accuracy Measurement】Shunt-type monitor design provides much more accurate real-time voltage and current draw measurement.
Renogy 500A is yet another excellent RV battery monitor that demands a closer study due to its remarkable features and cutting-edge technology. The RV monitor is a sophisticated and reasonably priced system for small and medium-sized RV battery banks. The system combines a stunning look with fantastic capabilities to track the status of your batteries over time.
It has a lighted LCD and an intuitive button layout that is simple to use and configure. With the battery monitor on hand, you will always be up to date by monitoring current, voltage, power usage, and battery charge levels with the push of a single button.
Furthermore, while the RV battery monitoring system is extremely simple to install, it does not contain battery cables, temperature sensors, or other useful accessories. This is due to its extremely low cost. Overall, I was impressed with the Renogy 500A battery monitor. It is reasonable, easy to install, and has a plethora of useful functions.
BUNKER INDUST 12V Battery Monitor
- 【SIMULTANEOUSLY MONITOR UP TO 4 OF 12V BATTERIES】 -- Download APP "BM2", you can monitor 1 of 12v batteries. If you have more batteries, please Download APP "BM3", you can simultaneously monitor up to 4 of these devices(APP BM2/FREE,APP BM3/ NOT FREE)
If you need a 12-volt battery monitor for your RV, the BUNKER INDUST 12V Battery Monitor is a good option. This model includes various features that can make a rig owner’s life considerably easier. One outstanding example is its capacity to monitor four 12v batteries at the same time. This advantage is made possible by its free app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices. As a result, consumers can monitor the performance of their batteries on tablets, smartphones, laptops, and other comparable devices.
The data entering these gadgets will also be fairly comprehensive. Your new battery monitor will collect data on your battery’s charge, voltage, cranking power, and other important parameters. It should make it much easier to keep the rig’s batteries in top condition.
You should also not underestimate this product’s ability to store data for 35 days. This feature ensures that data is preserved regardless of whether the device is in sync or not. It’s yet another way for this device to demonstrate its great levels of convenience. Another intriguing feature is its capacity to notify your phone when an unexpected situation or malfunction happens. As a consequence, you’ll never be caught off guard by a problem with your RV’s batteries again.
MNJ MOTOR DC Multifunction Battery Monitor Meter
- 【9 in 1 Battery Monitor Meter】-- 1 interface displays 9 kinds of measurement parameters at the same time, including Voltage(0-200V), Current(0-100A), Power(0-20000W), Impedance( 0-1000Ω), Internal Resistance(0-999mΩ), Capacity(0-1000AH), SOC, Energy Consumption(0-9999kWh) and Running Time(0-999h).
MNJ Motor manufactures a variety of products, tools, and accessories for a variety of vehicles, including RVs, for which it produces a few useful RV battery monitors.
If you need a high voltage reading range for testing big parallel battery configurations, the MNJ Motor RV battery monitor can be the right choice for you. This RV battery monitor, in particular, supports the greatest voltage rating in this article, ranging from 0 to 200 volts. This is accompanied with a rather high current range of 0 to 100 amps, which is quite impressive, especially given the price.
Because this is a relatively inexpensive RV battery monitor, expect a compact display. It does, however, have backlighting, 9-in-1 reading functions, and other features, making it a very versatile alternative. However, there is no guarantee included with this RV battery, which may be a deal breaker for some purchasers.
MICTUNING DC 6.5-100V 0-100A RV MultiMeter
- MICTUNING 4-in-1 DC Multimeter - with 1.0 grade measuring accuracy, it combines Voltage, Current, Power and Energy measurement in one combo, super compact and lightweight that can be portable and easily used
Anyone looking for the best RV battery monitor should pick MICTUNING’s DC 6.5-100V 0-100A RV MultiMeter. This model has everything a person could want in a device of this type. One outstanding example is the repeatability with which it measures power, current, voltage, and energy. It can provide these results for practically all electrical equipment and has a maximum power rating of 100A. As a result, it is classified as a 4-in-1 multimeter.
Customers will like the voltage alarm on this product. This feature, which can be activated, ensures that the display’s backlight and voltage value flash when the testing voltage exceeds the specified limit. It is an efficient method of ensuring that the equipment is always operated correctly and does not fail.
Worth mentioning is the device’s low power consumption. It’s an important function because it ensures that the device doesn’t utilize or consume too much power. This electricity can be used to power more important tools on your rig. This device should appeal to you because it has a 100A/75mV current shunt. Most brands require you to purchase shunts separately, but MICTUNING did us proud. It’s a wonderful touch that takes one step out of the process.
MICTUNING’s customer service is well regarded by other buyers. It appears that their workers take satisfaction in assisting customers in configuring these products. To be honest, you don’t often run across this form of approval when doing product research, but it turns out to be a beneficial feature in many circumstances.
Aside from these features, it includes several others that we’ve addressed extensively in previous reviews. A huge LCD display, automatic data storage, a reasonable price, and a compact design are among the benefits. Each of these features only serves to reaffirm this model’s status as a high-quality option.
MNJ MOTOR DC Multifunction Battery Monitor Meter
- 【9 in 1 Battery Monitor Meter】-- 1 interface displays 9 kinds of measurement parameters at the same time, including Voltage(0-200V), Current(0-100A), Power(0-20000W), Impedance( 0-1000Ω), Internal Resistance(0-999mΩ), Capacity(0-1000AH), SOC, Energy Consumption(0-9999kWh) and Running Time(0-999h).
MNJ Motor MNJ-BT-028 is designed with an LCD HD display that allows for 360-degree viewing, allowing RVers to monitor batteries from various angles. The MNJ-BT-028 display also has backlighting, allowing users to see readings clearly throughout the day. The battery monitor for RV of MNJ Motor functions steadily and with a dazzling degree of accuracy, thanks to a high precision chip control. MNJ-BT-028 of MNJ Motor, unsurprisingly, receives numerous positive comments from RV battery monitor reviews.
Unlike most recreational vehicle battery monitors on the market, the MNJ-BT-028 requires no screws to install. As a result, setting up the MNJ Motor battery monitor is a piece of cake, and RVers don’t need to use any tools in the process. MNJ Motor MNJ-BT-028 is the ideal RV battery monitor for RV enthusiasts with limited time. Aside from that, because it is compatible with popular battery types, the MNJ-BT-028 would easily couple with a variety of battery banks.
MNJ Motor MNJ-BT-028 is affordable and available at a price that most recreational vehicle owners can afford. As a result, purchasing the MNJ-BT-028 should have no influence on your future spending.
Buyer’s Guide to Buying the Best RV Battery Monitor
When you are out camping, it is a good idea to have a battery monitor with you that will show you the status of your battery. You don’t want your battery conking out in the middle of nowhere, now do you? A battery monitor is a system that measures the flow of energy in your battery all the time. Several other measurements and factors that are important in calculating the amount of charge present are also shown by a battery monitor.
It is a useful tool for your campervan that you should have. There are various products on the market, and each seems to be perfect. However, that is not the case. Some various features and factors set a battery monitor for campervan apart from each other. Let’s take a look at the things you need to keep in mind before you go out and buy a battery monitor. Let’s get started.
Types of battery monitors
There are two kinds of battery monitors for RVs and campervans. The first kind of battery monitor measures only the voltage and is commonly known as a voltmeter. The other type is the one that measures both amperes and volts. Voltmeters are a simple and cheap option and measure the voltage of your battery in an easy way. If you know how to read the state of charge of your battery depending on their type, e.g., AGM batteries, marine battery, Lithium-Ion, etc., then you are good to go with a voltmeter.
However, the issue with voltmeters is that the reading will not tell you anything about how much power that is being drawn by the system, If you are charging the battery with the help of solar power from solar panels (from your solar system with solar panel) or alternator, the voltmeter will not tell you whether your battery is being charged or not.
This means that you can miss out on faults and end up with a damaged battery. Batteries don’t come cheap, and if you are not careful, you are going to end up losing hundreds of dollars. Therefore, you should buy a proper RV battery monitor also like has an “ammeter” functionality rather than buying a simple voltmeter. Some come as multi-meters while others as voltmeters. You can choose the type of monitor as per your preferences and requirements.
Display
The size and quality of the monitor’s display have a considerable impact on how much information it can provide. Some are incredibly rudimentary, providing nothing more than a charge level or voltage.
Though some devices employ basic numeric displays, the majority of units include LCD and LED panels that may be put in your RV. You’d appreciate being able to read the voltage, power, and current all at once. Isn’t it just so simple? The parameters may be simply programmed to track the remaining battery capacity and other parameters.
Another successful model has an appealing display and includes a solar charging read-out. This is great for individuals who have an expensive solar battery or controller. For a more viewable display, screens range from blue to neon green. It can also be used as a nightlight because it only uses a small amount of power. They can provide detailed data on charge level, battery temperature, voltage, charging pace, and much more. It will cost extra, but if you want to effectively monitor the state of your battery bank, we believe it is well worth it.
Mobile App
Monitoring software that works with apps. You go from having to be physically present to monitor the battery state of your RV to being able to check it from anyplace you have cell service. This is really useful when checking your RV’s batteries while it is in storage. Simply connect the monitor to your home WiFi and you can check the status of your RV without having to open it.
Compatibility with existing electrical systems
You need to check out if the battery monitor you are buying is compatible with the existing electrical system in your van build like solar panels. Various battery monitors are compatible with different kinds of electrical systems, so make sure you check this before purchasing the final one. Theses systems work with various voltages. They work with different battery type as well, such as SLA, lead-acid, NiCad, gel cell, etc.
Power consumption
With the help of battery monitoring, you can check if your charging equipment is working properly or not. You can also know which equipment is wasting how much power or consuming additional power. If you become aware of this, you can turn it off to save your battery charge.
Notifications
RV Battery monitors come with notification alerts. They notify you when your RV battery is dying, or if it is not charging properly. You can also record the previous data of the battery and use it if you are doing troubleshooting.
Basic battery monitors display the voltage and perhaps current of your batteries, but more complex models may store messages and even send alarms. They’re especially beneficial if you’re going to store your RV and want to be able to check for low voltage warnings or other difficulties on a regular basis.
Temperature Sensor
A few battery monitors not only show the battery status in the form of amp meter and volts, but they also show the battery temperature using temperature sensors. This is an important feature with the help of which you can keep the temperature of your battery under control and prevent it from overheating. The LCD displays of the battery monitors tell you everything you need to know about the health of your battery.
Ease of Use
Nothing irritates us more than unnecessarily complicated gear. Battery monitors are designed to deliver a few bits of vital information and should not require a 30-page handbook to set and use.
In terms of usability, seek for streamlined controls with an easy command scheme. As previously stated, we suggest app support for larger/more sophisticated battery systems because it makes them much easier to operate.
Battery Shunt
A battery shunt is a vital component that allows a battery monitor to function properly. It attaches to your battery, normally on the negative wire, and allows the monitor to read voltage, current, and other parameters.
Some battery monitors have a battery shunt, but others do not. Check to see if a shunt is available for your chosen battery monitor, as some manufactures employ unusual proprietary connectors.
Warranty
When it comes to any product, warranty is something you can’t skip on. A good and long warranty period assures that the manufacturers have complete faith in the quality of their product.
Check the warranty period of the batter monitor so that if the device fails you, you can get a refund or get it repaired at least. You should also take a look at the customer services of the company so that if you have any queries in the future, you will get a quality response.
Cost
When you are out buying not only battery monitors, you have to keep an eye out for the price tags. A higher price tag is not a guarantee that you will get better quality as well. Many battery monitors come at an affordable cost and function correctly.
Additional features result in added costs.
Be certain that you know what features you are looking for in a battery monitor, and then buy one that suits your budgetary requirements. Fix a budget, write down the features you want in your battery monitor, and then choose the one that fulfills both criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a RV battery monitor?
The first thing that you need to know is what a monitor is actually. It is a device that gives you detailed information regarding the charge and load on the battery. Moreover, it also monitors the number of cycles a battery goes through along with the battery history. Battery monitoring your when you are in a van is pretty important since you are out on the road and don’t want to end up with damaged batteries.
A battery monitor has an ammeter functionality. It analyses the amount of current that is flowing in and out of the terminals of the battery to give you the output. It requires that all the grounded wires are ground on a shunt that is, in return, connected with the negative terminal of the battery. A connection is made between the battery and the shunt directly with no connections with the positive terminal.
The shunt is the brain of the battery monitor. The interface panel is plugged with the shunt. Voltmeter also performs a similar function. However, it lacks various features that are offered by battery monitors.
Why do I need a RV Battery Monitoring System?
A battery monitoring system always measures the amount of time your batteries enter and leave. These measurements are used to calculate the state of charge or discharge of your battery. BMS acts as a fuel gauge for your batteries. Also very useful for measuring the exact amount (MPS) of the instruments that each piece of battery monitor uses. Strengthen the instruments and watch the current value change.
A BMS can tell you how much power is entering or leaving your batteries at any given time. What percentage of the total capacity of your battery is available. How much time is left before your battery is fully charged or discharged. Some conditions allow you to set alarms to turn devices on or off when certain conditions are met. For example, you can start a generator automatically when your battery is less than 50%.
Which brands of battery monitors are popular?
When you are searching for good battery monitors, you have to keep popular brands in mind as well. The brands that are currently popular due to their quality and durability are Bayite, Victron, WATERWICH, and DROK. These companies have been around for quite a while, and have a good reputation.
Can I change the features displayed on the monitor screen?
This varies from monitor to monitor. A few monitors provide you with the ability to choose which features you see on the screen. Check the instructions manual that came with your battery monitor and see if you can do the desired changes to the display.
How can I install a RV battery monitor?
There is no definite and straightforward answer to this since every battery monitor has its own way of fixation and installation. Read the user manual that came with the monitor and install the monitor in your RV properly.
How do I take care of my van battery monitor?
Taking care of a rv battery monitor system is not a difficult task. Most of them don’t require any kind of maintenance. However, you need to keep the battery monitor away from harsh elements such as direct sunlight, moisture, etc. Moisture is not good around electronics, so make sure that your battery monitor is installed in a safe and dry place.