Quick Summary: Keep your Nikon Coolpix S3500 powered up! The original Nikon EN-EL19 battery is the best choice for optimal performance and longevity. If you need a replacement, look for reputable brands offering compatible batteries that meet or exceed original specifications for reliable shooting power.

Nikon Coolpix S3500 Battery: Keeping Your Memories Powered Up

Is your Nikon Coolpix S3500 camera suddenly dying when you’re about to capture that perfect shot? It’s frustrating when your camera won’t stay powered, especially during important moments. Don’t let a weak battery stop your creativity. This guide will help you understand the best battery options for your Nikon Coolpix S3500, ensuring you have the power you need, when you need it.

We’ll cover everything from the official Nikon battery to reliable third-party choices. You’ll learn how to choose the right battery, take care of it, and get the most out of your camera’s power. Let’s dive in and make sure your Coolpix S3500 is always ready to go!

Understanding the Nikon Coolpix S3500 Battery

Your Nikon Coolpix S3500 uses a specific type of battery designed to fit its compact frame and provide enough energy for its functions. Knowing the correct battery code is the first step in finding a replacement or a spare. For the S3500, this is the Nikon EN-EL19 rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

These batteries are built to Nikon’s standards, ensuring they work seamlessly with your camera. They offer a good balance of power, size, and lifespan, which is crucial for a point-and-shoot camera like the S3500.

Why Battery Choice Matters

Choosing the right battery isn’t just about finding something that fits. It directly impacts:

• Camera Performance: A quality battery provides stable power, helping your camera function smoothly without performance dips.
• Shooting Capacity: A higher capacity battery (measured in milliampere-hours or mAh) will let you take more photos and videos on a single charge.
• Battery Lifespan: Good batteries last longer, both in terms of charge and number of recharge cycles.
• Camera Safety: Using a poorly made battery can potentially damage your camera due to incorrect voltage or poor electrical contacts.

The Official Nikon EN-EL19 Battery

When it comes to powering your Nikon camera, the genuine Nikon EN-EL19 battery is often the most straightforward and reliable option. Nikon designs these batteries specifically for their cameras, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal performance.

Pros of the Genuine Nikon EN-EL19 Battery:

• Guaranteed Compatibility: It’s made by Nikon, so you know it will work flawlessly with your Coolpix S3500.
• Consistent Performance: Expect steady power delivery, leading to reliable camera operation.
• Safety Features: Genuine batteries have built-in protections against overcharging and overheating.
• Durability: They are built to last, offering a good number of recharge cycles.

Cons of the Genuine Nikon EN-EL19 Battery:

• Higher Cost: Official brand batteries are typically more expensive than third-party alternatives.

If you prioritize peace of mind and guaranteed performance, the official Nikon EN-EL19 is the way to go. You can usually purchase these from Nikon’s official website, authorized camera retailers, or reputable electronics stores.

Exploring Third-Party Nikon EN-EL19 Compatible Batteries

While the genuine Nikon battery is a top choice, the market offers many third-party alternatives that are compatible with the EN-EL19. These can be a more budget-friendly option, especially if you need multiple spare batteries.

When choosing a third-party battery, it’s essential to be diligent. Look for brands that have a good reputation for producing reliable camera batteries. Reading reviews and checking specifications carefully is crucial.

What to Look for in Third-Party Batteries:

• Brand Reputation: Stick to well-known battery manufacturers that specialize in camera power solutions.
• Capacity (mAh): Compare the mAh rating to the genuine EN-EL19. Some third-party batteries may offer higher capacity for longer shooting times.
• Voltage: Ensure the voltage matches the original EN-EL19 battery. Mismatched voltage can damage your camera.
• Safety Certifications: Look for certifications like CE, FCC, or RoHS, which indicate that the battery meets certain safety and environmental standards.
• Warranty: A good warranty period from the manufacturer provides an extra layer of security.

Popular Reputable Third-Party Brands (Examples):

While specific brands can change in popularity and availability, some commonly recognized names in the third-party battery market include:

• Wasabi Power
• Neewer
• Digimax
• Ex-Pro

Always research the specific brand and model you are considering.

Pros of Third-Party EN-EL19 Batteries:

• Cost-Effective: Generally significantly cheaper than genuine Nikon batteries.
• Higher Capacity Options: Some brands offer batteries with higher mAh ratings, providing longer shooting times.
• Availability: Widely available from online retailers.

Cons of Third-Party EN-EL19 Batteries:

• Variable Quality: Quality can vary greatly between brands and even batches.
• Potential for Issues: Some may not fit perfectly, last as long, or could potentially pose a risk if poorly manufactured.
• Performance Inconsistency: Power delivery might not be as stable as a genuine battery.

Tip: When buying third-party, purchase from reputable sellers who offer good return policies in case of any issues. Websites like Amazon, B&H Photo, or Adorama often have detailed customer reviews.

Comparing Battery Specifications

When you’re comparing different battery options, understanding a few key specifications will help you make the best choice. For your Nikon Coolpix S3500, the EN-EL19 battery has standard metrics.

Specification	Nikon EN-EL19 (Typical)	Third-Party EN-EL19 Compatible (Range)
Battery Type	Rechargeable Lithium-ion	Rechargeable Lithium-ion
Model Number	EN-EL19	EN-EL19 / Compatible with EN-EL19
Voltage	3.7V	3.7V
Capacity (mAh)	~700 mAh	~600 mAh to ~1200 mAh (Varies by brand)
Weight	Approx. 25-30g	Approx. 20-35g (Varies)

Understanding mAh: Milliampere-hour (mAh) indicates the battery’s capacity – how much charge it can hold. A higher mAh number means the battery can supply power for a longer duration. For instance, a 1000mAh battery can theoretically power your camera for roughly 40% longer than a 700mAh battery under the same conditions.

Voltage: It’s crucial that the voltage matches. Using a battery with the wrong voltage can seriously damage your camera. For the EN-EL19, this should always be 3.7V.

Nikon Coolpix S3500 Battery Chargers

Besides the battery itself, the charger is equally important for maintaining battery health and ensuring proper charging. Your Nikon Coolpix S3500 likely came with a specific charger, often the Nikon MH-66. If you’ve lost it or need a spare, replacements are available.

Using the Official Nikon MH-66 Charger:

The MH-66 charger is designed to safely charge the EN-EL19 battery. It has safeguards to prevent overcharging and ensures the battery reaches its optimal charge level without damage.

When to Buy a New Charger:

• Lost Original: If your original charger has gone missing.
• Damaged Charger: If the cable is frayed, the plug is bent, or the charger isn’t working.
• Spare Charger: For convenience, especially if you travel or have multiple batteries.

Third-Party Chargers: Use with Caution

Similar to batteries, third-party chargers are available and can be cheaper. However, when it comes to charging lithium-ion batteries, safety is paramount. A poorly designed charger can overcharge, overheat, or damage the battery, potentially leading to a fire hazard or voiding your battery’s warranty.

If you opt for a third-party charger:

• Ensure it is specifically listed as compatible with the Nikon EN-EL19 battery.
• Look for reputable brands with good reviews and safety certifications.
• Always supervise charging, especially with third-party equipment.

Powering the Charger:

Most Nikon Coolpix chargers, including the MH-66, use a standard AC adapter with a wall plug. Some third-party chargers might offer USB charging capabilities, which can be convenient. Always ensure the power adapter for the charger also meets safety standards. For reference, reliable power adapters generally comply with regulations audited by bodies like the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for electromagnetic interference.

Battery Care for Your Nikon Coolpix S3500

Proper care of your EN-EL19 battery can significantly extend its lifespan and ensure reliable performance. Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to extreme temperatures and improper charging habits.

Best Practices for Battery Care:

1. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Don’t leave your camera or batteries in a hot car or direct sunlight for extended periods. Extremely cold temperatures can temporarily reduce battery performance.
2. Don’t Fully Discharge Regularly: Lithium-ion batteries don’t have a “memory effect” like older battery types. It’s generally better to recharge them when they are partially depleted rather than waiting for them to run completely dead.
3. Store Properly: If you’re storing the battery for a long time (over a month), keep it in a cool, dry place at around 40-60% charge. Storing a fully charged or fully depleted battery for extended periods can degrade its capacity.
4. Use the Right Charger: Always use the Nikon MH-66 charger or a trusted, compatible third-party charger.
5. Clean Contacts: Occasionally, gently clean the battery’s metal contacts and the camera’s battery compartment contacts with a soft, dry cloth or a pencil eraser. This ensures good electrical connection.
6. Avoid Physical Damage: Do not puncture, crush, or disassemble the battery. If it appears swollen or damaged, stop using it immediately.

Understanding Battery Life for the Nikon Coolpix S3500

How long will your battery last? This is a common question, and the answer depends on several factors:

• Battery Capacity (mAh): As discussed, higher mAh means longer life.
• Camera Usage: Frequent use of the flash, LCD screenZooming, and video recording consume more power than simply taking photos.
• Temperature: Cold weather significantly reduces battery performance.
• Battery Age: Older batteries hold less charge than new ones.

Nikon typically estimates battery life based on CIPA standards (Camera & Imaging Products Association), which involves specific shooting conditions. For the Nikon Coolpix S3500 with a fully charged EN-EL19 battery, you can expect approximately:

• Around 200-250 shots (CIPA Standard)

In real-world use, this might be more or less depending on your shooting habits. Active photographers who shoot many shots in quick succession, use the LCD screen heavily, and frequently zoom will likely see shorter battery life than someone who takes occasional photos with infrequent screen use.

Troubleshooting Common Battery Issues

Even with the best care, you might encounter battery problems. Here are a few common issues and how to address them:

• Camera Won’t Turn On:
  • Ensure the battery is correctly inserted and fully charged.
  • Try a different, known-good battery if you have one.
  • Clean the battery and camera contacts.
• Battery Drains Too Quickly:
  • Check for extraneous light sources being left on, like GPS or Wi-Fi if applicable (though the S3500 is basic).
  • The battery might be old and nearing the end of its life.
  • Consider purchasing a higher-capacity battery or a new genuine one.
  • Extreme temperatures can also cause rapid drain.
• Battery Not Charging:
  • Ensure the charger is properly plugged into a working power outlet.
  • Check that the battery is correctly seated in the charger.
  • Clean the battery and charger contacts.
  • Try a different charger if possible, or a different outlet. If the battery is old or damaged, it might refuse to charge.
• Camera Shows “Battery Error”:
  • This often indicates an issue with the battery’s connection or a fault within the battery itself.
  • Remove and reinsert the battery. Clean the contacts.
  • If it persists with multiple batteries, there might be an issue with the camera’s battery compartment or internal circuitry.

If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, and you’ve ruled out a faulty charger, it might be time to consider replacing the battery. If the problem persists even with a new, known-good battery, it suggests a potential issue with the camera itself, and you might need to seek professional repair.

Where to Buy Nikon Coolpix S3500 Batteries and Chargers

Finding a reliable place to purchase power accessories for your camera is key. Here are some common and trusted sources:

Reputable Retailers:

• Authorized Nikon Dealers: For genuine Nikon EN-EL19 batteries and MH-66 chargers. This is the safest bet for authenticity and warranty.
• Major Electronics Stores: Chains like Best Buy or its equivalents in other regions often carry camera accessories.
• Online Photography Retailers: Websites like B&H Photo Video, Adorama, and Amazon are popular choices. On Amazon, pay close attention to the seller and customer reviews, especially for third-party items.
• Manufacturer Websites: Buying directly from the battery manufacturer (e.g., Wasabi Power, Neewer) can also be an option for their specific products.

When Buying Online:

• Check the Seller: Especially on marketplaces like Amazon, ensure the seller has good ratings and positive reviews.
• Read Product Descriptions Carefully: Verify that the battery is explicitly stated as compatible with the Nikon Coolpix S3500 and EN-EL19 battery.
• Look for Reviews: Customer reviews are invaluable for gauging the real-world performance and reliability of a product.
• Understand the Return Policy: Ensure you can return the battery if it doesn’t work correctly or meet your expectations.

Remember, while price is a factor, prioritizing quality and reliability, especially for power accessories, can save you trouble and potential damage to your camera in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)