Review: Maxell batteries for digital cameras
If you own a digital camera or camcorder, there’s a good chance you’ve spent some money on expensive extra rechargeable batteries. OEM batteries are often in the $50 range, and while there are a wide variety of cheap replacements, most of them are inferior quality. Fortunately, Maxell makes replacement batteries for many models. After testing two different Maxell batteries for a few weeks, here’s our quick review.
Quality and Compatibility
I tested two models of Maxell replacement batteries for digital cameras:
- DC3780 -replacement for Fuji NP-40
- DC7465 – replacement for Nikon EN-EL1
Both of these are quality lithium batteries. The cells are made in Japan and the batteries are assembled in the USA. Both are identical in size to their OEM counterparts and fit in the cameras and chargers perfectly.
One thing to watch out for with replacement batteries is the mAH (milliamp hours) rating. This is a measure of total capacity of the battery. Many of the cheaper batteries have lower ratings than the OEM versions. On the other hand, many are rated higher than the OEM batteries—usually this is an indication that their rating is exaggerated, since the batteries rarely outlast the originals.
The Maxell batteries we tested were both rated the same as the OEM batteries, and after using them and recharging them several time over a 2-month period, they seem to last as long as the originals.
Value
The Maxell batteries we tested were both available for about $20 at online retailers. Unfortunately they’re overpriced at chain electronics stores, often as high as $40—but if you’re desperate for a battery, it’s nice to know you can pick one up at Circuit City. Since the OEM batteries are usually at least $50, and often hard to find at any price, the Maxell batteries are an excellent value.
Conclusion
Any time you search for a replacement battery, you’ll find identical-looking batteries from many companies you’ve never heard of. We recommend looking for the Maxell-branded replacements, which offer good quality at a price almost as good as the no-name versions.