Camera Batteries: How Long Do They Really Last?

The lifespan of a camera battery depends on several factors, including usage, storage, and the number of recharges. On average, a camera battery should last at least five years if handled correctly and not initially faulty.

Lithium-ion batteries, which are now standard in cameras, offer improved performance over older AA batteries, which could capture around 50 shots before needing to be replaced. Lithium-ion batteries can be recharged hundreds of times and hold their charge for longer. However, they will degrade over time, and their lifespan can be impacted by factors such as temperature and frequency of use.

Lithium-ion batteries should be stored at partial charge

Yes, lithium-ion batteries should be stored at a partial charge. This is because lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to heat, and storing them at a partial charge reduces the risk of overheating. The ideal storage temperature is 50°F (10°C), and the ideal storage humidity is 50%.

Camera batteries can last for years

The lifespan of a camera battery depends on several factors, including the type of camera, its components, and how it is used. For example, in mirrorless cameras, much of the power is used by the electronic viewfinder, which means that battery capacities tend to be lower compared to DSLRs with optical viewfinders.

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries

Today, most cameras use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which can last for several years if properly maintained. Lithium-ion batteries can be safely recharged at any time and do not need to be fully discharged before recharging. In fact, it is recommended to top up the battery when a recharge is needed, rather than waiting for it to be fully charged every time.

Maximising battery life

To prolong the life of a camera battery, it is recommended to keep at least two batteries on hand and rotate them regularly. Labelling batteries with the date of purchase can also help keep track of their age and performance. Storing batteries in a cool, dry place and avoiding extreme temperatures can also help extend their lifespan.

When to replace camera batteries

After a few hundred cycles, a camera battery may fall below half capacity and need to be replaced. However, even batteries that have been heavily used can still be kept as emergency backups and used occasionally.

Batteries should not be left to fully discharge

It is best practice to only charge your camera battery when it needs it. This is known as 'topping up' and will help your battery last longer. You can also leave a battery with less than half of its full charge overnight, although it is best to avoid charging longer than necessary.

It is also worth noting that camera batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place.

Cold temperatures can reduce battery performance

Cold temperatures can significantly reduce battery performance. This is a common issue with car batteries in winter, and it can also affect camera batteries. Lithium-ion batteries, in particular, rely on chemical reactions to generate a charge, and these reactions slow down in cold temperatures. As a result, the battery's power output decreases, and it may struggle to provide enough energy to the device.

The impact of cold on battery performance is directly related to temperature—the colder it is, the worse the battery will function. Long periods of exposure to extremely cold temperatures can even cause irreversible damage to batteries. This is because the internal components of the battery contract, making it difficult for electrons to pass between the electrodes. This can lead to the formation of lithium dendrites, which can puncture the diaphragm and cause battery failure.

To prevent issues with camera batteries in cold conditions, it is advisable to keep spare batteries close to your body, inside your coat, to maintain a relatively warm temperature. Additionally, continuous use of the device can help protect the battery from degrading in cold weather.

Battery life depends on usage, placement and settings

The battery life of a camera depends on several factors, including usage, placement, settings, and the type of camera.

Usage

Different camera functions require different amounts of power. For example, live streaming, using a built-in viewing screen, or enabling special features such as night vision and audio recording will use more power and shorten the battery life. Continuous recording, where the camera is always active, also consumes a significant amount of power and results in a shorter battery life.

On the other hand, motion-activated recording conserves battery by minimising the camera's activity. When no motion is detected, the camera goes into a standby mode that consumes less power. Other power-saving features include PIR mode, where the camera only triggers when it senses heat, and scheduled recording, where the user can set specific times for the camera to be active.

Placement

The environment in which the camera is placed can also affect battery life. Operating the camera in extreme hot or cold temperatures will negatively impact the battery's performance.

Settings

Certain settings and features can help extend battery life. For example, modern spy cameras often have built-in rechargeable batteries and power-saving features such as standby mode, motion detection, automatic shut-off, and PIR mode. Additionally, efficient power management techniques, such as optimising hardware components and utilising special software and sleep modes, can help reduce power consumption.

Type of Camera

The type of camera also plays a role in battery life. For example, mirrorless cameras tend to have lower battery capacities than DSLRs with optical viewfinders due to the power consumption of the electronic viewfinder.

In summary, by considering factors such as usage, placement, settings, and the type of camera, you can optimise the battery life of your camera and ensure it meets your specific needs.

Frequently asked questions