Quick Summary: Having the right battery charger for your Canon camera is key to never missing a shot. This guide explains how to find and use the best Canon battery chargers, ensuring your camera is always ready to capture memories. We cover official chargers, compatible options, and safety tips for reliable power.

Canon Battery Charger: Your Essential Guide to Staying Powered Up

Let’s face it, there’s nothing more frustrating than your Canon camera running out of battery right when you’re about to capture that perfect moment. Whether you’re on vacation, at a family gathering, or on a professional shoot, a dead battery can bring your creativity to a halt. But don’t worry! Keeping your camera powered up is easier than you think. This guide is here to help you navigate the world of Canon battery chargers. We’ll break down what you need to know, from understanding your charger options to keeping your batteries healthy. Get ready to ensure your Canon camera is always ready when inspiration strikes!

Why the Right Canon Battery Charger Matters

Using the correct charger for your Canon camera battery isn’t just about convenience; it’s crucial for safety and battery longevity. An incorrect charger can damage your battery, overheat, or even pose a fire risk. The official Canon chargers are designed specifically for their batteries, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal charging conditions. However, there are also many reliable third-party options that can save you money without compromising safety or performance, as long as you choose wisely. We’ll help you make an informed decision so you can keep shooting with confidence.

Understanding Your Canon Camera Battery

Before diving into chargers, it’s helpful to know a little about the batteries they power. Canon uses various types of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries across its camera lines. These are often labeled with codes like LP-E6, LP-E8, NB-13L, and others. Each battery type has specific voltage and capacity ratings. Your camera manual will tell you which battery it uses. The charger must match this specific battery type to function correctly and safely.

Lithium-ion batteries are popular because they hold a charge well and don’t suffer from the “memory effect” that older battery types did. However, they should still be treated with care. Overcharging, extreme temperatures, or physical damage can reduce their lifespan or make them unsafe.

Types of Canon Battery Chargers

When looking for a battery charger for your Canon, you’ll generally find a few main types:

1. Official Canon Chargers (OEM)

These are made by Canon themselves. They are guaranteed to be compatible with your specific Canon battery and camera model. They often come bundled with a new camera or battery.

Pros: Perfect compatibility, highest safety standards, reliable performance, often come with warranty.
Cons: Usually the most expensive option.

2. Third-Party Compatible Chargers

These are made by other companies but are designed to work with Canon batteries. They can be a more affordable alternative to official chargers.

Pros: More budget-friendly, wide variety of options available, some offer dual charging capabilities.
Cons: Quality can vary greatly, ensure they have safety certifications, might not charge as quickly as OEM.

3. Universal Chargers

Some chargers can charge multiple battery types, sometimes even different brands, often with adjustable pins or compartments. These are less common for specialized camera batteries but do exist.

Pros: Versatile if you have many different devices.
Cons: Can be bulky, less precise fit for specific Canon batteries, potential for compatibility issues if not carefully chosen.

4. Car Chargers / USB Chargers

Many modern chargers connect via USB, making them easy to power from a car adapter, power bank, or computer. Some official and third-party chargers come with both wall plugs and car adapters.

Pros: Convenient for travel and on-the-go charging.
Cons: Charging can sometimes be slower than dedicated wall chargers.

Choosing the Right Charger: What to Look For

Not all chargers are created equal. Here’s a checklist to help you pick a safe and effective one:

Compatibility: This is the most important factor. Ensure the charger is specifically listed for your Canon camera model and battery type (e.g., LP-E6 for Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, LC-E17 for Canon EOS M cameras). Check the charger’s product description carefully.
Safety Certifications: Look for certifications like CE, FCC, or UL. These indicate that the product has met safety standards. Reputable brands will clearly display these.
Build Quality: A well-made charger will feel sturdy. Check reviews for comments on durability and how well the battery fits into the charging slot.
Charging Speed: Some chargers are faster than others. If you’re often in a hurry, look for chargers that specify a quick charge time (e.g., “fully charges in 2 hours”).
Included Accessories: Does it come with a wall plug? A car adapter? A USB cable? Consider what you need for your typical use.
Brand Reputation and Reviews: Stick to well-known brands in the third-party market or always opt for OEM. Read user reviews to see what others are saying about their experience.

Common Canon Battery Charger Models and Their Uses

Canon offers several charger models, often specific to their camera series. Here are a few common examples:

Canon Charger Model	Compatible Battery Types	Typical Camera Series	Notes
LC-E17 / LC-E17C	LP-E17, LP-E17E	EOS M series (e.g., M50, M6), EOS Rebel SL series (e.g., SL3, SL2)	Compact charger for entry-level DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.
LC-E6 / LC-E6E	LP-E6, LP-E6N, LP-E6NH	EOS 5D Mark series, EOS 6D series, EOS 7D series, EOS R series (some models)	Standard charger for many popular full-frame and APS-C DSLRs.
CB-2LZE	NB-13L	PowerShot G series (e.g., G7X Mark III, G5X)	For advanced compact cameras.
LP-E8	LP-E8	EOS Rebel T series (e.g., T2i, T3i, T4i, T5i)	Older generation battery, common in older Rebel DSLRs.

When purchasing a third-party charger, ensure it explicitly states compatibility with one of these Canon battery codes (e.g., “Compatible with Canon LP-E6N batteries and LC-E6 charger”).

How to Safely Charge Your Canon Camera Battery

Charging your battery is straightforward, but following these steps ensures safety and battery care:

Identify the Correct Battery and Charger: Double-check that you have the battery that came with your camera or an identical replacement, and its corresponding charger.
Insert the Battery: Gently slide the battery into the charging slot until it clicks or feels securely in place. Most chargers have a clear indicator for correct orientation. Don’t force it; if it doesn’t fit easily, you likely have it backward or it’s the wrong battery.
Connect the Power Source: Plug the charger into a wall outlet. If it’s a USB charger, connect it to a USB power adapter, power bank, or computer.
Check the Charging Indicator: Most chargers have an LED light that indicates the charging status. It usually starts blinking or shows red while charging and turns solid green or blue, or turns off, when the battery is fully charged. Consult your charger’s manual for specific indicator meanings.
Wait for Full Charge: Allow the battery to charge completely. While lithium-ion batteries have protection against overcharging, it’s best practice to remove them once fully charged to prolong their life.
Remove and Use Battery: Once fully charged, unplug the charger and carefully remove the battery. Insert it into your Canon camera.

Tips for Battery Longevity and Care

To get the most out of your camera batteries and ensure they last a long time, follow these simple tips:

Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Don’t leave your batteries or camera in a hot car or direct sunlight. Extreme cold can also temporarily reduce battery performance.
Store Batteries Properly: If you’re storing a battery for a long period, charge it to about 50-80% and store it in a cool, dry place.
Clean Battery Contacts: Occasionally, gently clean the metal contacts on the battery and inside the charger with a clean, dry cloth or a pencil eraser. This ensures a good connection.
Don’t Leave Batteries Fully Drained: Try to avoid letting your batteries drain completely on a regular basis. Recharge them when they get low.
Use Authentic or Reputable Chargers: As we’ve discussed, this is key to preventing damage.
Cycle Batteries: If you have multiple batteries, rotate using them. This prevents one battery from sitting unused for too long.

Troubleshooting Common Charger Issues

Sometimes, you might run into a problem. Here are a few common issues and how to solve them:

Charger Light Not Turning On:
- Check if the charger is securely plugged into the wall outlet or USB port.
- Try a different outlet or USB port.
- Ensure the battery is correctly inserted into the charger.
- Try a different, known-good battery if you have one.
- The charger itself might be faulty.
Battery Not Charging (Light Blinking Constantly or No Light):
- Clean the battery contacts and charger contacts.
- Resecurely insert the battery.
- Ensure you are using the correct battery for that charger.
- The battery might be old and no longer viable, or the charger may be faulty.
Camera Not Recognizing Battery After Charging:
- Remove and reinsert the battery into the camera.
- Clean the battery contacts on both the battery and the camera.
- Try charging the battery fully again.
- The battery’s internal chip might be corrupted, or the battery itself might be failing.
Charger Overheating:
- This can be a sign of a faulty charger or battery. Unplug it immediately.
- Ensure the charger is in a well-ventilated area and not covered.
- If it continues to overheat, discontinue use and replace the charger.

If you’ve tried these steps and are still having trouble, it’s time to consider whether the battery or the charger needs replacing. Always refer to your Canon camera’s manual or Canon USA’s support pages for official guidance.

When to Replace Your Canon Battery or Charger

Batteries don’t last forever. You’ll know it’s time to replace them when:

They no longer hold a charge for a reasonable amount of time (e.g., only last 10-15 minutes while shooting).
They take significantly longer to charge than they used to.
The battery performance is inconsistent.
The battery housing is swollen, cracked, or damaged.

Similarly, a charger should be replaced if:

It looks physically damaged (cracked casing, frayed cord).
It consistently fails to charge batteries that used to charge fine.
It overheats excessively, even after ensuring proper ventilation.
It has been dropped or exposed to moisture.

Replacing worn-out batteries ensures you can continue to capture your memories without interruption. A faulty charger can be a safety hazard, so don’t risk it!

Where to Buy Canon Battery Chargers

You have several reliable options for purchasing Canon battery chargers:

Official Canon Store: For guaranteed OEM products, the Canon store or authorized Canon resellers are the best bet.
Major Electronics Retailers: Stores like Best Buy, B&H Photo Video, and Adorama carry both official Canon chargers and reputable third-party brands.
Online Marketplaces: Amazon and eBay offer a vast selection, but be extra diligent about checking seller reputation and product reviews, especially for third-party items, to avoid counterfeits.

When buying third-party, do your homework. Brands like Neewer, Wasabi Power, and Patona are often well-regarded, but always cross-reference reviews specific to your battery model.

Frequently Asked Questions About Canon Battery Chargers

Q1: Can I use a non-Canon brand charger for my Canon camera battery?

A1: Yes, you can, but only if it’s specifically advertised as compatible with your exact Canon battery model (e.g., LP-E6N). Always choose chargers from reputable brands that have safety certifications.

Q2: How can I tell if my Canon camera battery is bad?

A2: A battery is likely bad if it drains very quickly, won’t hold a charge, takes excessively long to charge, or if its casing appears swollen or damaged. Your camera might also display a battery error message.

Q3: How long does a Canon camera battery typically last on a single charge?

A3: This varies greatly depending on the camera model, battery capacity (mAh), and how much you use the camera (e.g., taking photos, using the LCD screen, Wi-Fi). A full charge can range from a few hundred shots to over a thousand for some models.

Q4: What does the blinking light on my Canon battery charger mean?

A4: Typically, a blinking light (often red) indicates that the battery is currently charging. A solid light (often green) usually means the battery is fully charged. Refer to your specific charger’s manual, as indicator lights can vary between models.

Q5: Is it bad to leave my Canon battery in the charger overnight?

A5: Modern lithium-ion batteries and chargers have built-in safeguards to prevent overcharging. While usually safe, it’s generally recommended to remove the battery once it’s fully charged to maximize its lifespan and avoid any potential risks.

Q6: My Canon charger feels warm. Is this normal?

A6: A little warmth during charging is normal as energy is transferred and converted. However, if the charger becomes excessively hot to the touch, unplug it immediately and do not use it. This could indicate a faulty charger or battery.

Q7: What is the difference between Canon LP-E6 and LP-E6N batteries?

A7: The LP-E6N is an updated version of the LP-E6. While they often look identical and are interchangeable in most cameras (the LP-E6N is backward compatible), the LP-E6N can sometimes offer slightly better battery life or communication features with newer cameras. Chargers for LP-E6 and LP-E6N batteries are usually the same (e.g., LC-E6).

Conclusion

Keeping your Canon camera ready to shoot is all about having a reliable power source, and that starts with the right battery charger. By understanding your battery type, choosing a compatible and safe charger, and following simple charging and care tips, you can ensure countless hours of photography. Whether you opt for an official Canon charger or a well-vetted third-party alternative, making an informed decision will save you potential headaches and keep your creative workflow uninterrupted. So, grab the right charger, keep those batteries topped up, and go capture some amazing moments!

Battery Charger For Canon: Essential Guide