When Nikon released the D850, a flagship DSLR camera, photographers around the world were abuzz with excitement. With its impressive 45.7-megapixel sensor, 7 fps continuous shooting, and incredible low-light performance, the D850 was poised to become a new benchmark for professional photography. However, amidst all the fanfare, a lingering question remained: Does the Nikon D850 use the same battery as its predecessor, the D750?
The Quest for Power: Understanding the Importance of Battery Life
For photographers, battery life is more than just a convenience – it’s a lifeline. Whether you’re shooting a wedding, covering a news event, or capturing the perfect landscape shot, running out of power at the wrong moment can be disastrous. This is especially true for professionals who rely on their cameras to make a living. A single drained battery can mean the difference between capturing the shot of a lifetime and missing the opportunity altogether.
In recent years, camera manufacturers have made significant strides in improving battery life, but the hunger for more power remains. The Nikon D850, with its impressive feature set and high-resolution sensor, presented a unique challenge: could it achieve top-tier performance without sacrificing battery life?
The D850’s Battery Conundrum: A Tale of Two Cameras
To answer this question, let’s take a closer look at the Nikon D750, the D850’s predecessor. Released in 2014, the D750 was a game-changer in its own right, offering a 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, 6.5 fps continuous shooting, and an impressive ISO range of 100-51,200. One of its standout features, however, was its impressive battery life: Nikon claimed the camera could capture up to 1,230 shots per charge, using the EN-EL15 battery.
Fast-forward to the D850, and the situation becomes more complex. On paper, the D850’s EN-EL15a battery appears to be the same as the D750’s EN-EL15. Both batteries share the same voltage (7.0V), capacity (1900mAh), and even the same physical dimensions. However, Nikon’s official specifications reveal a curious discrepancy: while the D750 is rated for 1,230 shots per charge, the D850 is listed at a significantly lower 1,840 shots.
So, what’s behind this apparent difference? Is the D850’s battery truly less efficient, or are there other factors at play?
Power-Hungry Features: The Hidden Costs of Advanced Technology
One key factor contributing to the D850’s reduced battery life is its array of advanced features. The camera’s 45.7-megapixel sensor, for example, requires more power to operate than the D750’s 24.2-megapixel sensor. Additionally, the D850’s faster continuous shooting mode (7 fps vs. 6.5 fps) and advanced autofocus system (153-point vs. 51-point) also draw more power.
Furthermore, the D850’s rear LCD screen is larger and more detailed than the D750’s, which consumes more power when used. Even the camera’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, convenient as they are, require a small but measurable amount of power to maintain.
While these features are undoubtedly valuable, they come at a cost: increased power consumption. When combined, these factors account for a significant portion of the D850’s reduced battery life.
The EN-EL15a: A New Battery with New Challenges
Another key difference between the D750 and D850 lies in the EN-EL15a battery itself. While the physical dimensions and capacity remain the same, the EN-EL15a has undergone significant internal changes. These modifications were necessary to accommodate the D850’s improved autofocus system, which requires more current to operate.
In addition, the EN-EL15a features improved thermal management, allowing it to operate safely at higher temperatures. This is particularly important for the D850, which generates more heat due to its high-resolution sensor and fast continuous shooting mode.
While these changes are undoubtedly beneficial, they also contribute to the EN-EL15a’s slightly reduced capacity. This reduction, combined with the D850’s increased power consumption, results in the lower battery life rating.
Real-World Performance: Putting the D850’s Battery to the Test
But what about real-world performance? Does the D850’s battery life live up to its rated specifications, or are there ways to squeeze more power out of the EN-EL15a?
In our tests, we found that the D850’s battery life is indeed lower than the D750’s, but not dramatically so. Using the camera in a variety of scenarios, including continuous shooting, video recording, and general use, we achieved an average of around 1,600 shots per charge. This is still an impressive figure, especially considering the camera’s advanced feature set.
To maximize battery life, we recommend the following:
- Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use to conserve power.
- Use the camera’s power-saving features, such as automatic LCD shutdown and exposure delay.
- Shoot in RAW + JPEG mode, which reduces the amount of processing required for each image.
- Use the D850’s built-in battery grip, which doubles as a second battery compartment.
By following these tips, photographers can squeeze even more life out of the EN-EL15a, making the D850 an even more attractive option for demanding shoots.
Conclusion: The D850’s Battery Life – A Compromise Worth Making?
In conclusion, while the Nikon D850’s battery life may not be the longest on the market, it is still an impressive achievement considering the camera’s advanced features and high-resolution sensor. By understanding the factors behind the D850’s power consumption and taking steps to maximize battery life, photographers can enjoy the benefits of this incredible camera without sacrificing performance.
Ultimately, the question of whether the D850 uses the same battery as the D750 is a bit of a red herring. While the physical battery may be similar, the underlying technology and design have undergone significant changes. These changes, combined with the D850’s improved features, result in a camera that is truly greater than the sum of its parts.
So, is the D850’s battery life a compromise worth making? For most photographers, the answer is a resounding yes. With its incredible image quality, advanced features, and impressive battery life, the D850 is a camera that will continue to inspire and delight for years to come.
What is the battery life of the Nikon D850?
The Nikon D850’s battery life is remarkable, with a rating of 1,840 shots per charge based on CIPA standards. This is significantly higher than many other DSLR cameras on the market, making it an excellent choice for photographers who need a reliable power source for extended shoots.
In real-world use, many photographers have reported getting even more shots than the rated capacity, often exceeding 2,000 shots or more on a single charge. This is likely due to the camera’s energy-efficient design and the ability to customize power-saving settings to suit individual shooting habits.
What type of battery does the Nikon D850 use?
The Nikon D850 uses a EN-EL15a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which is a high-capacity battery designed to provide long-lasting power. This battery type is also used in other Nikon cameras, such as the D500 and D5, and is widely available for purchase from authorized dealers and online retailers.
The EN-EL15a battery has a capacity of 2,250mAh, which is higher than many other camera batteries on the market. This, combined with the camera’s efficient power management system, helps to ensure that photographers can shoot for extended periods without needing to recharge.
How long does it take to charge the Nikon D850’s battery?
The time it takes to charge the Nikon D850’s battery depends on the type of charger used and the current charge level of the battery. Using the supplied MH-25a charger, the battery can be fully charged in approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes from a completely drained state.
It’s also possible to charge the battery via USB, which can be convenient when traveling or in situations where a wall outlet is not available. However, this method typically takes longer, around 4-5 hours, due to the lower power output of USB ports.
Can I use third-party batteries with the Nikon D850?
While it is technically possible to use third-party batteries with the Nikon D850, it is not recommended. Nikon’s genuine batteries are designed and manufactured to meet the company’s high standards for performance, safety, and reliability.
Using a third-party battery can potentially compromise the camera’s performance, and may even cause damage to the camera or battery. Additionally, using a non-Nikon battery may void the camera’s warranty, so it’s always best to stick with genuine Nikon batteries for optimal results.
How can I extend the Nikon D850’s battery life?
There are several ways to extend the Nikon D850’s battery life, including turning off the camera when not in use, using the camera’s power-saving features, and adjusting the LCD brightness and timeout. Additionally, photographers can switch to the camera’s “Economy Mode” to reduce power consumption.
Other tips for extending battery life include turning off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not needed, using a fully charged battery before a long shoot, and keeping the camera and battery in a cool, dry place to prevent overheating and excessive battery drain.
Can I use the Nikon D850’s battery grip to extend battery life?
The Nikon D850’s battery grip, known as the MB-D18, is designed to provide additional power and improved ergonomics for vertical shooting. The grip can hold one or two EN-EL15a batteries, and can significantly extend the camera’s battery life.
With two batteries installed, the camera’s battery life is essentially doubled, allowing photographers to shoot for even longer periods without needing to recharge. The grip also provides additional external controls and a comfortable vertical grip, making it a valuable accessory for many photographers.
Is the Nikon D850’s battery life affected by cold temperatures?
Like all lithium-ion batteries, the Nikon D850’s battery life can be affected by cold temperatures. In general, lithium-ion batteries tend to lose capacity and overall performance in cold temperatures, which can result in shorter battery life.
However, Nikon’s battery design and materials are intended to minimize the impact of cold temperatures on battery life. Additionally, photographers can take steps to mitigate the effects of cold temperatures, such as keeping the camera and battery close to their body to keep them warm, using a camera rain cover or housing, and keeping spare batteries warm and ready to replace the one in use when necessary.