Power your Speedlite Flash with Eneloop Batteries
While my initial capacity tests of Eneloop batteries were very positive, I chose to power my Speedlite flash and power pack with super high-capacity NiMH batteries such as Powerex 2700 or Sanyo 2500 batteries. After more than a year of field experience with these batteries, I am switching to Eneloop batteries.
So what’s up? The self-discharge rate of conventional NiMH batteries is simply too fast. Especially in Singapore’s hot, tropical climate. In less than a month, half the battery capacity or more is gone without even using them. Before a shoot, I have to charge as many as a dozen batteries.
Eneloop batteries were specifically designed by Sanyo as a slow-discharge alternative to conventional NiMH batteries. Sanyo claims that the Eneloops retain 85% of their initial capacity after 1 year of storage at room temperature. Now with Eneloops powering my Speedlite, I don’t have to worry whether or not my primary set or back-up set of batteries were charged the day before a photo shoot.
Yes, the Eneloops have a lower nominal capacity (2000 mAh). However, the set of Eneloop AA batteries that I tested last year were found to have an actual capacity of 2100 mAh. Also, I found that the super high-capacity NiMH batteries don’t retain their full capacities after a few months of regular use. The Eneloops seem to hold up better.
So far, I haven’t noticed any increase in flash skipping during rapid shooting. I find the Eneloop powered Speedlite more than adequate for photojournalism or casual photography. If you are covering a wedding or fashion show, you will still need a power pack.
Resources:
Buy the Eneloop AA 4 Pack at Amazon.com.
Buy the Eneloop AA 4 Pack at Amazon.co.uk.
Buy the Eneloop AA 8 Pack at Amazon.com.
Buy the Eneloop AA 8 Pack at Amazon.co.uk.
Buy the Eneloop Charger plus AA 4 Pack at Amazon.com.
Buy the Eneloop Compact Charger plus AA 2 Pack at Amazon.com.
Buy the Eneloop AAA 4 Pack at Amazon.com.
Buy Eneloops batteries on eBay.
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US $272.95 End Date: Tuesday Nov-18-2008 9:06:01 PST Buy It Now for only: US $272.95 Buy it now | Add to watch list |
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