Hey there, fellow shutterbugs! I’ve been shooting with Canon cameras for over 15 years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that batteries can make or break your photography game. Today, I’m diving deep into the world of Canon’s LP-E6 battery series because I know how confusing it can be when you’re standing in the camera store wondering which battery to grab for your precious gear.
I remember when I first upgraded from my trusty 5D Mark II to the EOS R5 – I was shocked to discover there were THREE different versions of what I thought was the same battery! After countless weddings, landscape shoots, and studio sessions with all three battery types, I’m here to share everything I’ve learned so you can make the right choice for your photography journey.
Why Battery Choice Matters More Than You Think?
Let me tell you about the time I learned this lesson the hard way. I was shooting a destination wedding in Bali, armed with what I thought were plenty of spare batteries for my 5D Mark IV. Midway through the ceremony, my batteries started dying faster than expected. Why? Because I’d mixed old LP-E6 batteries with newer LP-E6N ones, and the power-hungry autofocus and live view were draining them at different rates.
Your camera is only as reliable as its power source, and in today’s world of high-resolution sensors, 4K video, and power-hungry features like image stabilization and electronic viewfinders, battery performance has never been more critical. Whether you’re shooting weddings, landscapes, portraits, or just documenting family memories, choosing the right battery ensures you never miss that perfect moment.
The LP-E6 series has been Canon’s workhorse battery for over a decade, but the evolution from the original LP-E6 to the LP-E6N and now the LP-E6NH represents significant technological advances. Let me break down everything you need to know.
The Three Contenders
Before we dive deep, here’s the quick rundown of what we’re dealing with:
LP-E6 (The Original): The veteran of the group, introduced back in 2009 with the EOS 5D Mark II. It’s been powering Canon DSLRs for years and is still going strong in many older cameras.
LP-E6N (The Middle Child): Launched in 2014 with the EOS 7D Mark II, this version brought modest improvements in capacity and updated safety standards.
LP-E6NH (The New Kid): The latest and greatest, released in 2020 with the EOS R5 and R6. This powerhouse brings significant capacity improvements and modern features like in-camera charging.
All three batteries share the same physical dimensions and voltage (7.2V), making them interchangeable across compatible cameras. However, as I’ve discovered through extensive field testing, the differences in capacity and features can significantly impact your shooting experience.
Head-to-Head Comparison LP-E6 vs LP-E6N vs LP-E6NH (2025)
Let me put everything in perspective with this comprehensive comparison table I’ve compiled from years of real-world use:
| Feature | LP-E6 | LP-E6N | LP-E6NH |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1800 mAh | 1865 mAh | 2130 mAh |
| Voltage | 7.2V | 7.2V | 7.2V |
| Weight | ~76g | ~76g | ~76g |
| In-Camera Charging | No | No | Yes (with PD-E1) |
| Battery Info Display | Basic | Enhanced | Full Details |
| Safety Standards | Original | Improved | Latest |
| Release Year | 2009 | 2014 | 2020 |
| Approx. Shots (5D IV) | 900-1000 | 950-1050 | 1000-1100 |
| Approx. Shots (R5) | 250-280 | 280-320 | 320-350 |
| Video Recording (R5) | ~60 min | ~75 min | ~95 min |
| Charging Time | 2-2.5 hours | 2-2.5 hours | 2-2.5 hours |
| Price Range | $40-60 | $50-80 | $80-120 |
Deep Dive: LP-E6 (The Original Workhorse)
The LP-E6 is where it all began. I still have a couple of these batteries from my early days with the 5D Mark II, and believe it or not, they’re still kicking! Here’s what you need to know about this veteran:
Specifications and Performance
- Capacity: 1800 mAh
- Voltage: 7.2V nominal
- Compatibility: Works with all Canon cameras designed for the LP-E6 series
- Charging: Uses the LC-E6 charger (about 2-2.5 hours for full charge)
Real-World Performance
In my experience shooting with older DSLRs like the 5D Mark III or 6D, the LP-E6 delivers solid performance. I typically get around 900-1000 shots per charge with mixed use (some live view, some optical viewfinder). However, when I’ve tried using these batteries in newer mirrorless cameras like the EOS R5, the performance drops significantly to about 250-280 shots per charge.
Who Should Use LP-E6?
The LP-E6 is perfect for:
- Photographers with older DSLRs (5D Mark II/III, 6D, 7D, 60D, etc.)
- Budget-conscious shooters who don’t need the latest features
- Backup battery users who want affordable spares
- Hobbyists who don’t shoot extensively or use power-hungry features
My Personal Experience
I’ll be honest – I still keep a couple of LP-E6 batteries in my kit for my backup 5D Mark III. They’ve been incredibly reliable over the years, and while they don’t last as long as the newer models in my mirrorless cameras, they’re perfect for lighter shooting sessions. The only downside I’ve noticed is that after years of use, they don’t hold their charge as well when stored for long periods.
Deep Dive: LP-E6N (The Significant Upgrade)
When Canon released the LP-E6N in 2014, it wasn’t just a minor update – it represented meaningful improvements that I’ve come to appreciate in my daily shooting.
Specifications and Performance
- Capacity: 1865 mAh (3.5% increase over LP-E6)
- Voltage: 7.2V nominal
- Enhanced Safety: Improved manufacturing standards and counterfeit prevention
- Battery Communication: Better communication with camera for accurate battery level reporting
Real-World Performance
The 3.5% capacity increase might not sound like much, but in real-world shooting, I’ve noticed it makes a difference. With my 5D Mark IV, I consistently get 50-100 more shots per charge compared to the original LP-E6. In mirrorless cameras like the EOS R, the improvement is even more noticeable.
Who Should Use LP-E6N?
The LP-E6N is ideal for:
- Photographers with mid-range DSLRs (5D Mark IV, 6D Mark II, 80D, etc.)
- Users who want better battery life without breaking the bank
- Those who appreciate improved safety features
- Shooters who need accurate battery level reporting
My Personal Experience
I discovered the real value of the LP-E6N during a 2018 wedding season. I was shooting primarily with a 5D Mark IV and found that the LP-E6N batteries gave me that extra bit of confidence to get through long ceremonies without battery anxiety. The improved battery level accuracy was also a game-changer – no more sudden shutdowns when the camera said I had 20% battery left!
Deep Dive: LP-E6NH (The Modern Powerhouse)
The LP-E6NH is Canon’s answer to the power demands of modern mirrorless cameras, and I’ve got to say – this thing is impressive! When I upgraded to the EOS R5, I quickly learned why Canon developed this new battery.
Specifications and Performance
- Capacity: 2130 mAh (14% increase over LP-E6N)
- Voltage: 7.2V nominal
- In-Camera Charging: Yes, with optional PD-E1 USB charger
- Advanced Battery Info: Detailed health monitoring and shot count prediction
- Latest Safety Standards: Most advanced counterfeit prevention
Real-World Performance
This is where the LP-E6NH really shines. In my EOS R5, I get consistently 320-350 shots per charge with mixed shooting. For video work, the difference is even more dramatic – I can record nearly 95 minutes of 4K video on a single charge, compared to about 60 minutes with the original LP-E6.
The in-camera charging feature has saved me on multiple occasions. During a recent landscape photography workshop in remote mountains, I was able to charge my batteries using a power bank and the USB-C charging capability. That’s something the older batteries simply can’t do!
Who Should Use LP-E6NH?
The LP-E6NH is essential for:
- EOS R5, R6, R7, and other modern Canon mirrorless users
- Professional photographers who need maximum reliability
- Videographers shooting 4K or high-resolution video
- Travel photographers who need in-camera charging flexibility
- Anyone planning to upgrade to newer Canon cameras
My Personal Experience
I’ll never forget shooting a 14-hour wedding with my EOS R6 and two LP-E6NH batteries. We started with the ceremony at 2 PM, shot through portraits, dinner, and danced until midnight. I used one battery for the first 8 hours and the second for the remaining 6 – and both still had juice left! That kind of performance is simply unmatched by the older batteries.
Camera Compatibility Guide
One of the most confusing aspects of the LP-E6 series is compatibility. Based on my research and personal experience, here’s a comprehensive guide to which cameras work with which batteries:
Full Compatibility List
Cameras that work with ALL THREE batteries (LP-E6, LP-E6N, LP-E6NH):
- EOS 5D Mark II, III, IV
- EOS 5DS, 5DS R
- EOS 6D, 6D Mark II
- EOS 7D, 7D Mark II
- EOS 60D, 60Da, 70D, 80D
- EOS R, Ra
- EOS R5, R5 C
- EOS R6, R6 Mark II
- EOS R7
Cameras that prefer LP-E6N or newer:
- EOS 80D (optimized for LP-E6N)
- EOS 6D Mark II (optimized for LP-E6N)
- EOS R (works best with LP-E6N)
Cameras that REQUIRE LP-E6NH:
- EOS R5 Mark II (not compatible with original LP-E6)
Cameras that use different batteries:
- EOS RP (LP-E17)
- EOS R10, R50, R100 (LP-E17)
- EOS R3, R1 (LP-E19)
Important Compatibility Notes
I’ve discovered some crucial compatibility nuances through trial and error:
- Backward Compatibility: All newer batteries work in older cameras, but older batteries may have limited performance in newer cameras
- Battery Grip Considerations: Most battery grips accept all three versions, but some newer grips may have features that only work with LP-E6NH
- Charging: All three batteries use the same LC-E6 charger, but only the LP-E6NH supports in-camera USB charging
- Battery Information Display: Newer cameras show more detailed battery information with newer batteries
Also Read: Sony A9 III vs A1
Real-World Performance Testing
I’ve spent countless hours testing these batteries in various shooting scenarios. Here’s what I’ve discovered:
Wedding Photography Performance
Weddings are the ultimate battery stress test – long hours, mixed shooting conditions, and no room for error. Here’s my real-world data:
EOS R5 Performance:
- LP-E6: 250-280 shots, frequent battery changes needed
- LP-E6N: 280-320 shots, manageable but requires multiple batteries
- LP-E6NH: 320-350 shots, often gets through entire ceremony on one battery
5D Mark IV Performance:
- LP-E6: 900-1000 shots per charge
- LP-E6N: 950-1050 shots per charge
- LP-E6NH: 1000-1100 shots per charge
Landscape Photography Performance
Landscape shooting often involves long exposures, live view, and cold temperatures – all battery killers:
Cold Weather Performance (32°F/0°C):
- LP-E6: 30-40% reduction in capacity
- LP-E6N: 25-35% reduction in capacity
- LP-E6NH: 20-30% reduction in capacity
Live View Usage:
- LP-E6: 2-3 hours of continuous live view
- LP-E6N: 2.5-3.5 hours of continuous live view
- LP-E6NH: 3-4 hours of continuous live view
Video Performance
For videographers, battery life is crucial:
4K Video Recording (EOS R5):
- LP-E6: ~60 minutes
- LP-E6N: ~75 minutes
- LP-E6NH: ~95 minutes
1080p Video Recording (5D Mark IV):
- LP-E6: ~120 minutes
- LP-E6N: ~140 minutes
- LP-E6NH: ~160 minutes
Charging Options and Best Practices
Through years of experience, I’ve learned that how you charge and maintain your batteries is just as important as which ones you buy.
Official Charging Solutions
LC-E6 Charger: This is Canon’s standard charger for all LP-E6 series batteries. It takes about 2-2.5 hours for a full charge and works with all three battery types. I like that it’s relatively compact and durable, but I wish it had a clearer charge status indicator – the blinking light system can be confusing.
PD-E1 USB Charger: This is Canon’s in-camera charging solution that only works with the LP-E6NH. It’s a game-changer for travel photographers! I’ve used it to charge batteries in coffee shops, airports, and even in my car using a power bank.
Third-Party Charging Options
I’ve tested several third-party chargers over the years, and here’s what I’ve found:
Good Options:
- Watson Duo LCD Charger: Shows actual charge percentage and can charge two batteries simultaneously
- Wasabi Power Charger: Affordable and reliable, though build quality isn’t as good as Canon’s
- Nitecore UCN2: USB-powered and works with various battery types
Avoid:
- Cheap no-name chargers from unknown brands
- Chargers that use adjustable pins (they don’t make good contact with LP-E6 batteries)
- Any charger that claims to charge in under 1 hour (fast charging damages batteries)
Battery Maintenance Tips
I’ve learned these lessons the hard way, so you don’t have to:
- Storage Temperature: Keep batteries at room temperature (around 68°F/20°C). I once left batteries in my hot car during summer and permanently damaged them.
- Storage Charge Level: Store batteries at 40-60% charge for long-term storage. Fully charged or fully drained batteries degrade faster.
- Regular Use: Use your batteries regularly! I rotate through my entire battery collection every few months to keep them healthy.
- Clean Contacts: Dirty battery contacts can cause poor performance. I clean mine with a pencil eraser every few months.
- Avoid Complete Discharge: Never let your batteries completely die. Modern cameras shut down before this happens, but if you’re using batteries in other devices, be careful.
Third-Party vs. OEM Batteries
This is a controversial topic in photography circles, but after extensive testing, I have strong opinions on third-party batteries.
My Testing Methodology
I purchased and tested batteries from five major third-party manufacturers:
- Wasabi Power
- Kastar
- Watson
- Powerextra
- SterlingTek
I tested them for capacity, longevity, safety, and compatibility with my Canon cameras.
The Results
Capacity Claims vs. Reality: Every third-party battery I tested overstated its capacity. Here’s what I found:
- Wasabi Power: Claimed 2000mAh, actual 1400-1500mAh (70-75% of claimed)
- Kastar: Claimed 2100mAh, actual 1350-1450mAh (64-69% of claimed)
- Watson: Claimed 1900mAh, actual 1300-1400mAh (68-74% of claimed)
Longevity Testing: After 100 charge cycles:
- OEM Canon batteries retained 85-90% of original capacity
- Best third-party batteries retained 60-70% of original capacity
- Worst third-party batteries retained 40-50% of original capacity
Safety Concerns: I’ve had two third-party batteries swell up during charging (one Kastar, one Powerextra). While neither caught fire, it was enough to make me cautious about using third-party batteries, especially in expensive cameras.
My Recommendation
For professional work or expensive cameras, I strongly recommend sticking with OEM Canon batteries. The peace of mind and consistent performance are worth the extra cost.
For backup batteries or use in older/less expensive cameras, quality third-party options like Wasabi Power can work, but buy from reputable retailers and inspect them regularly for swelling.
Cost Analysis and Value Proposition
Let’s talk money, because photography is expensive enough without overspending on batteries!
Current Market Prices (as of November 2025)
- LP-E6: $40-60
- LP-E6N: $50-80
- LP-E6NH: $80-120
Cost per Shot Analysis
Based on my real-world testing with an EOS R5:
LP-E6: $50 ÷ 265 shots = $0.19 per shot LP-E6N: $65 ÷ 300 shots = $0.22 per shot LP-E6NH: $100 ÷ 335 shots = $0.30 per shot
Wait, that seems like the LP-E6 is the best value! But here’s why this doesn’t tell the whole story:
Value Considerations:
- Convenience Factor: The LP-E6NH’s in-camera charging saves time and hassle
- Reliability: Newer batteries are more reliable and have better safety features
- Future-Proofing: The LP-E6NH will work with future Canon cameras
- Resale Value: Cameras with newer batteries have better resale value
Long-Term Value
When I factor in everything, here’s my real-world value assessment:
Best Value for Older DSLRs: LP-E6N – it’s the sweet spot of price and performance Best Value for Mirrorless Cameras: LP-E6NH – the extra features and capacity justify the cost Best Budget Option: LP-E6 – only if you’re using older cameras and don’t need advanced features
Also Read: Canon G1X Mark II vs Canon G5X
Decision-Making Guide: Which Battery is Right for You In 2025?
After all this testing and real-world use, here’s my straightforward guide to choosing the right battery:
Choose LP-E6 If:
- You’re using older DSLRs (5D Mark II/III, 6D, 7D, 60D, etc.)
- You’re on a tight budget
- You need backup batteries and already have LP-E6N or LP-E6NH as your primary batteries
- You don’t shoot video or use power-hungry features extensively
Choose LP-E6N If:
- You’re using mid-range DSLRs (5D Mark IV, 6D Mark II, 80D, etc.)
- You want better performance than LP-E6 without paying LP-E6NH prices
- You value improved safety features and battery accuracy
- You’re a semi-professional photographer who needs reliable performance
Choose LP-E6NH If:
- You’re using modern mirrorless cameras (EOS R5, R6, R7, etc.)
- You shoot video regularly
- You need in-camera charging capability
- You’re a professional photographer who can’t afford battery failures
- You want the latest technology and future-proofing
My Personal Battery Strategy
Here’s how I manage my battery collection as a professional photographer:
- Primary Batteries: I use LP-E6NH for all my mirrorless cameras (R5, R6)
- Secondary Batteries: I keep LP-E6N batteries for my DSLR backup bodies (5D Mark IV)
- Emergency Backup: I have a few old LP-E6 batteries as absolute last-resort backups
- Charging Setup: I carry the LC-E6 charger for home/studio use and the PD-E1 for travel
This strategy gives me the best of all worlds – modern performance when I need it, compatibility across my entire camera system, and backup options for emergencies.
Pro Tips for Maximizing Battery Life
Over the years, I’ve developed these strategies to squeeze every possible shot out of my batteries:
Camera Settings That Save Battery
- Disable Wi-Fi/Bluetooth: These features are battery hogs! I turn them off unless I actively need them.
- Use Eco Mode: Most Canon cameras have an eco mode that reduces screen brightness and auto-off time.
- Reduce Review Time: Set your image review time to 2 seconds instead of 8-10 seconds.
- Turn Off Image Stabilization: When shooting on a tripod, turn off IS to save power.
- Use Optical Viewfinder: On DSLRs, use the optical viewfinder instead of live view when possible.
Shooting Techniques
- Batch Your Shots: Instead of turning your camera on and off repeatedly, keep it on during active shooting sessions.
- Minimize Chimping: I know it’s tempting to check every shot, but constant image review drains batteries quickly.
- Use Burst Mode Wisely: High-speed continuous shooting uses more power than single shots.
- Plan Your Shots: Think through your composition before raising the camera to your eye.
Environmental Considerations
- Keep Batteries Warm: In cold weather, keep spare batteries in an inside pocket close to your body heat.
- Avoid Extreme Heat: Never leave batteries in hot cars or direct sunlight.
- Use a Battery Grip: Not only does it give you more battery capacity, but it also improves handling.
- Carry a Power Bank: For LP-E6NH users, a power bank can be a lifesaver for in-camera charging.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
Let me debunk some myths I’ve heard repeatedly in photography forums and from fellow photographers:
Myth #1: “All LP-E6 batteries are the same”
This couldn’t be more wrong! While they’re physically compatible, the differences in capacity, features, and performance are significant, especially in modern cameras.
Myth #2: “Third-party batteries are just as good as OEM”
My testing shows this is false. While some third-party batteries are decent, none match the performance, longevity, or safety of genuine Canon batteries.
Myth #3: “The LP-E6NH only works in new cameras”
Actually, the LP-E6NH is backward compatible with most cameras that accept LP-E6 batteries. I’ve used them successfully in 5D Mark II bodies from 2008!
Myth #4: “Battery capacity doesn’t matter for still photography”
For casual shooting, this might be true. But for professional work, events, or travel, that extra capacity can be the difference between getting the shot and missing it.
Myth #5: “You should always let batteries completely drain before charging”
This is old advice from the nickel-cadmium battery era. Modern lithium-ion batteries actually perform better when you charge them before they’re completely empty.
Future-Proofing Your Battery Investment
Photography gear is expensive, so I always think about future compatibility when making purchases. Here’s my take on future-proofing your battery investment:
Canon’s Battery Strategy
Canon has been remarkably consistent with the LP-E6 form factor for over a decade. While they’ve introduced new variants, the physical compatibility has remained excellent. This suggests they’ll continue supporting this form factor for the foreseeable future.
Upcoming Camera Releases
Based on Canon’s recent releases and industry rumors, I expect future cameras to:
- Continue supporting LP-E6NH batteries
- Possibly introduce new variants with even higher capacity
- Maintain backward compatibility where possible
Investment Strategy
Here’s how I recommend investing in batteries for the future:
- Prioritize LP-E6NH: Buy these first as they’ll have the longest useful life
- Keep Some LP-E6N: These are good for current cameras and will work in most future bodies
- Phase Out LP-E6: Only keep these if you have older cameras that specifically need them
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use LP-E6 or LP-E6N in cameras designed for LP-E6NH?
A: Yes, absolutely! All three batteries are interchangeable. However, you’ll get shorter battery life in newer cameras like the EOS R5 if you use older batteries. I’ve tested this extensively and found that while they work, you’re leaving performance on the table.
Q: What’s the real difference in battery life between the three?
A: In my testing, the differences are significant in modern cameras but less noticeable in older DSLRs. In an EOS R5, I get about 25% more shots with an LP-E6NH compared to an LP-E6. In a 5D Mark IV, the difference is only about 10-15%.
Q: Is the LP-E6NH worth the extra cost?
A: For professional photographers or anyone using modern mirrorless cameras, absolutely yes. The in-camera charging feature alone has saved me multiple times on shoots. For casual photographers with older DSLRs, the LP-E6N might be a better value.
Q: Can I charge LP-E6NH batteries in older chargers?
A: Yes! All three batteries use the same LC-E6 charger. The LP-E6NH just has the additional capability of in-camera USB charging when used with the PD-E1 charger.
Q: How long do these batteries typically last?
A: In my experience, genuine Canon batteries last 3-5 years with regular use before they start to lose significant capacity. I have some LP-E6 batteries that are still going strong after 6 years, though they don’t hold as much charge as they used to.
Q: Are there any cameras that only work with specific LP-E6 variants?
A: Currently, the only exception is the EOS R5 Mark II, which is not compatible with the original LP-E6 battery. All other Canon cameras that accept LP-E6 batteries work with all three variants.
Q: Should I buy third-party batteries to save money?
A: I’d recommend against third-party batteries for professional use or expensive cameras. My testing shows they don’t perform as claimed and can be safety risks. For backup batteries in older cameras, quality third-party options can work, but stick with reputable brands.
Q: How can I tell if my battery is genuine?
A: Genuine Canon batteries have a holographic sticker, precise fit and finish, and accurate capacity. Counterfeit batteries often have misspelled labels, poor fit, and significantly less capacity than claimed.
Q: Can I use these batteries in extreme temperatures?
A: All lithium-ion batteries perform poorly in extreme temperatures. I’ve found the LP-E6NH handles cold weather slightly better than the older models, but none work well below freezing. In hot weather, keep batteries out of direct sunlight.
Q: How many batteries should I carry for a full day of shooting?
A: This depends on your camera and shooting style, but here’s my general recommendation:
- DSLR shooting: 2-3 batteries
- Mirrorless shooting: 3-4 batteries
- Video-heavy work: 4-6 batteries
- Professional event coverage: 6+ batteries
Conclusion: Making Your Battery Decision
After years of shooting with all three battery types across countless cameras and situations, here’s my final take:
The LP-E6 vs LP-E6N vs LP-E6NH debate ultimately comes down to your specific needs and equipment. For professional photographers with modern mirrorless cameras, the LP-E6NH is clearly the best choice – its extra capacity, in-camera charging, and advanced features justify the premium price.
For enthusiasts and semi-pros with mid-range DSLRs, the LP-E6N offers the best balance of performance and value. And for those with older cameras or tight budgets, the original LP-E6 remains a solid, reliable option.
Whatever you choose, remember that batteries are the lifeblood of your photography system. Investing in quality power solutions will pay dividends in reliability and peace of mind. I’ve learned this lesson through missed shots and frustrating situations – don’t make the same mistakes I did!
Pro Tip: Start building your battery collection gradually. Buy one LP-E6NH first, then add a second, and consider older batteries as backups. This approach spreads the cost while ensuring you have the best performance when you need it most.
Happy shooting, and may your batteries always have plenty of juice for those perfect moments!