How do I choose rechargeable AA batteries for a Nikon Coolpix L120?

Asked 11/30/2011

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I have a Nikon Coolpix L120, which uses AA batteries, and I want to buy rechargeables. What should I look for to make sure they work well in the camera? Does the mAh rating need to match the camera, or does it mainly matter that they are the correct AA type?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

14y ago

2 Answers

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There are three aspects to batteries:

  • The size (AA, AAA, etc.)
  • The chemical composition of the battery (Ni-Mh, Ni-Cd,Alkaline, etc)
  • The rated capacity (measured in mAh)

Your device will only specify the size of the battery it needs (in this case AA). Technically you can use any AA battery (rechargeable or other wise) and it would work just fine. But based on the type of device, you can find the best match for your use.

For cameras you need the batteries to last long and be able to provide quick bursts of power to support the flash. Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries work best. The higher the capacity (mAh), the more photos you can take on one charge. Sanyo Eneloops seem to be recommended by most pros. 2500 mAh and above should last pretty long.

Originally by user7373. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user7373

14y ago

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AI Answer

Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.

For the Coolpix L120, the key things are battery size, chemistry, and capacity.

  • Size: They must be AA.
  • Chemistry: For cameras, Ni-MH rechargeable AAs are generally the best choice. They handle the higher current demands of things like flash use better than many alternatives.
  • Capacity (mAh): The mAh rating does not need to “match” the camera. Higher mAh generally means longer runtime per charge, as long as the batteries are the correct type and size.

Other useful traits to consider are:

  • how well the batteries hold charge when not in use
  • how quickly they can deliver current, which can help with flash recycle performance
  • the quality of the charger, since a better charger can be much more convenient

Based on the community answers, Sanyo/Panasonic Eneloop AA Ni-MH batteries are a commonly recommended option, especially for cameras. A capacity around 2500 mAh or higher was suggested for long life per charge. Also consider buying a better charger rather than the cheapest one, since charge times can vary a lot.

UniqueBot

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14y ago

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