Category: Camera Battery

Earlier this week, I received an email from a customer who had just purchased a Canon EOS R6 Mark III and was already frustrated with how quickly the battery drained during a full day of shooting. His main question was straightforward: “Which Canon battery pack should I buy as a spare, and how long does a Canon battery take to charge?” It is a question I hear frequently, so I decided to put together this comprehensive guide.

Understanding the Canon Battery Pack Range

Canon offers several battery packs designed for different camera systems. The most popular models in 2026 include the Canon LP-E6NH, which powers the EOS R5, R6, and R7 series, and the Canon LP-E17, used in entry-level mirrorless cameras like the EOS R10 and R50. For professional videographers and wildlife photographers, the Canon LP-E19 remains the go-to choice for flagship bodies such as the EOS R1. Each Canon battery pack varies in capacity, with the LP-E6NH offering 2130 mAh and the LP-E19 delivering an impressive 2750 mAh for extended shooting sessions.

How Long Does a Canon Battery Take to Charge?

Charging times depend on both the battery pack and the charger used. Using Canon’s standard LC-E6E charger, the LP-E6NH takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach a full charge from empty. I recently watched a YouTube comparison video by “Camera Battery Pro” that tested the Canon LC-E6E against third-party fast chargers from Neewer and RAVPower. The results showed that the Neewer dual charger reduced charging time to around 1 hour and 45 minutes without compromising battery health. For the LP-E17, a full charge typically takes about 2 hours with the original Canon LC-E17E charger.

Should You Buy Original or Third-Party Canon Batteries?

While the original Canon battery pack guarantees full compatibility and optimal performance, trusted third-party brands like Wasabi Power, Hähnel, and BM Premium offer excellent alternatives at significantly lower prices. Hähnel, a well-known European brand, produces the HL-E6NH which is fully decoded and compatible with Canon’s battery level indicator, something that many cheaper alternatives fail to provide.

Tips for Maximising Canon Battery Life

To get the most out of your Canon battery, avoid leaving it fully discharged for extended periods. Store batteries at around 40-60% charge in a cool, dry place. The customer who emailed me ultimately purchased two Hähnel HL-E6NH packs along with a dual USB-C charger, giving him enough power to shoot confidently for an entire weekend without worry.

Investing in the right Canon battery pack and charger setup is one of the simplest yet most impactful upgrades any photographer can make to their kit.

Earlier last week, a customer from Birmingham emailed me with an urgent question: “I just bought a Canon EOS R6 Mark II for an upcoming wedding shoot, but I’m not sure how long does a Canon battery take to charge. Can I fully charge it overnight before the event?” This question is more common than you might think. While browsing YouTube yesterday, I also noticed several popular tech channels like Gerald Undone and DPReview discussing Canon battery performance compared to competitors like Sony, Nikon, and Panasonic. With spring photography season approaching in the UK, it seems the perfect time to address these concerns.

Understanding Canon Battery Charging Times

For most Canon mirrorless and DSLR cameras, the standard Canon battery pack LP-E6NH takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to fully charge using the official LC-E6E charger. Smaller batteries like the LP-E17, commonly used in entry-level models such as the Canon EOS 250D, require around 2 hours. However, charging times can vary depending on several factors, including the charger type, ambient temperature, and whether you are using genuine Canon accessories or third-party alternatives from brands like Newell, Hähnel, or RAVPower. Using non-official chargers may extend charging times or affect long-term battery health.

Choosing the Right Canon Battery Pack

Selecting the appropriate Canon battery pack depends on your camera model and shooting requirements. Professional photographers covering events or wildlife often prefer the high-capacity LP-E6NH, which offers improved performance in Canon’s EOS R5, R6 series, and 5D Mark IV. For vloggers and casual users, the LP-E17 provides sufficient power for everyday shooting. Canon also offers optional battery grips like the BG-R10, allowing photographers to use two batteries simultaneously for extended shooting sessions. Third-party brands such as Smallrig and Vello provide affordable grip alternatives without compromising functionality.

Tips to Maximise Canon Battery Life

To ensure your Canon battery lasts longer during shoots, consider reducing LCD screen brightness, disabling Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use, and switching to eco mode if available. Carrying a spare Canon battery pack is always advisable, especially for outdoor photography across the British countryside during unpredictable spring weather. Investing in a reliable dual charger can also help you prepare multiple batteries overnight.

Understanding how long does a Canon battery take to charge and choosing the right accessories ensures you never miss a crucial shot during your next photography adventure.