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Newell Camera Batteries Explored

If you create any type of content with a camera the chances are that you’ll need more than the single battery, which came with your original purchase. But how many batteries do you need and which type of battery is compatible with your camera for stills, video and hybrid content?

In this guide we take a closer look at third-party Newell batteries and chargers to discover whether they make a good aftermarket alternative to original camera batteries. You’ll learn how to choose the best camera battery from Newell, whether you use Olympus, Canon, Nikon, Fujifilm or Sony batteries.

With models of various capacities and different naming conventions it can be difficult to choose the right one for your specific camera. This becomes even more complicated with mAh and voltages, and we explain all of the technical aspects in order for you to pick the perfect one to ensure you never run out of power.

Pictured: Newell BC-18B Dual Channel Battery Charger For EN-EL18 Batteries

How Many Camera Batteries Do You Need?

We recommend having a minimum of two camera batteries, irrespective of how experienced you are. This is because you’ll inevitably run out of power at the worst possible time, whether you’re away from a charger during a hike while shooting landscapes or when capturing street photography on city escape.

Everyone forgets to charge their camera battery at some time, or heads out on a shoot with a partly depleted battery. This can be particularly frustrating if you’re unable to recreate the shots you missed, or run out of power doing an important video recording.

With one or two spares available you will be able to switch batteries and even shoot all-day or all-night for astro photography, without ever missing a shot.

Pictured: Newell SupraCell NP-FZ100 Battery

Is it ok to use third-party camera batteries?

Yes, it is perfectly fine to use third-party camera batteries, depending on the brand. A ‘replacement’ battery is typically cheaper than original manufacturer batteries, whilst offering similar performance. Buying from a reputable brand such as Newell gives you up to forty months of warranty for complete peace of mind.

There are countless third-party rechargeable batteries available today, however we recommend sticking with a reputable brand who develop high quality cells with similar (or better) capacities than original batteries.

Can I use any battery with my camera?

Yes, you can use any replacement battery with your own camera as long as the voltage is the same. Original manufacturer batteries tend to be more expensive than aftermarket or third-party batteries, but they are interchangeable, which means you can use a variety from different brands.

Are Newell batteries good?

In our experience Newell batteries are extremely good. The latest Newell SupraCell series of rechargeable batteries offer up to 2300 mAh capacity for intensive use, with frequent discharging and charging. SupraCell can operate in extreme temperatures, are cased in fireproof material and come with a 40-month warranty.

All Newell products are covered by a no-quibble 40-month warranty, which means you'll get a replacement should you run into any problems during their warranty period.

What does mAh mean on a camera battery?

mAh on a camera battery refers to the capacity in milliAmps per hour and a higher mAh number is usually better in order to operate your camera for longer. The cell quality will affect actual runtimes, and we recommend always getting a high quality battery for your camera.

Can I use higher mAh batteries with my camera?

In general you should choose a replacement battery with roughly similar mAh capacity as your original camera battery, although a higher capacity battery will run for longer and shouldn’t cause any harm. Irrespective of mAh you must ensure the voltage of a replacement battery is identical to your camera’s requirements.

How long do camera batteries last?

A good quality camera battery should last around three to five years, depending on how often it is charged and discharged, how much power is drawn and typical shooting conditions. The best third-party batteries come with long warranty periods of between three years and 40-months.

Extreme cold can affect battery performance with quicker drain due to cold conditions weakening battery power by slowing the chemical reaction. Conversely warmer conditions can affect performance positively, with higher capacity reached in hot environments. Modern battery technology helps to control the cell temperature inside your batteries, further extending their useable lifespan with protection against overheating, overloading and overcharging.

How often should you replace camera batteries?

You should replace camera batteries when you encounter a drop in performance, which is usually noticeable after three to five years. High quality cells will extend the lifespan of rechargeable batteries and should not show any ‘memory effect,’ which means they can be charged however full they already are.

Which replacement batteries are available from Newell?

Newell designs three series of replacement rechargeable camera batteries, with are the original series, PLUS and high-end SupraCell batteries. Choose from the table below to ensure you get the perfect battery for your camera from the two latest ranges.

Newell batteries are compatible with the original camera battery charger which came with your camera, third party chargers and Newell own-brand chargers. These are available in a range of options including single, dual-channel and four-channel chargers for filmmakers.

Pictured: Newell FDL-USB-C Dual-Channel Charger For NP-W126 Batteries

Does the battery charger make a difference?

Yes, the control circuitry in a battery charger makes a difference, with charger intelligence affecting the condition of your battery. A slower rate of charge with regulation will keep your batteries in the best condition.

The FDL-USB-C battery charger range from Newell will maintain your battery and ensure best performance over time, while the DC-LCD range has two fixed options for charging speed.

Pictured: Newell BP-4CH 4-Channel Charger for V Mount batteries

How many times can you charge a camera battery?

It’s virtually impossible to answer precisely how many times can you charge a camera battery, although with a high quality battery you can expect to charge many 100’s of times. This assumes you also use a high quality charger, which maintains the battery in best condition.

Having more than one camera battery is essential to keep shooting stills and videos without running out of power at a critical moment and missing shots. Batteries can be chosen from the original manufacturer as well as from third party brands, but you should ensure you buy from a reputable company who offer a good warranty.

A replacement battery can have a slightly higher mAh capacity than the original, which will provide longer shooting times, however the voltage should be identical. High quality cells, temperature regulation and no memory effect are all features which you should consider for the best performance.

Shop for spare camera batteries today and explore a comprehensive range of products from Newell, which include batteries, chargers and other high quality camera accessories.

If you head over to our competition page before 14th September 2022 you can win Newell batteries and chargers – and it's completely free to enter!

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By Nick Dautlich on 17/08/2022