BP SCL4 Batteries and Leica Charger vs. Nitecore USB?

[bherman01545]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

All;

I have a few batteries for my SL2. I have the Leica supplied charger and also a Nitecore USB charger. The Nitecore is more portable and provides what appears to be an intelligent readout of battery charge, current etc., but was curious if there is any upside/downside to using one or the other?

I've heard that the Nitecore M10 charger is problematic, but I've used both the Leica and Nitecore charger for my SL2 batteries seemingly without issues. I typically plug the Nitecore into an AC/DC charging block similar to what is provided with the iPhone.

Does the Nitecore USB charge the batteries properly? I don't want to use anything which may diminish the life of the batteries.

 

-Brad

[Advertisement]

The Leica Q3 is available for pre-order at B&H Photo Video and Adorama

[wjdrijfhout]

I have heard similar concerns about nitecore chargers as well, but using them myself for years for the SL/SL2 batteries without any problems. With so many chargers for so many electronics these days, I use USB interfaces wherever possible. It greatly simplifies the hassle of carrying around multiple different adapters 

[scott kirkpatrick]

The issue with Nitecore chargers is that they are rather crude.  If you start with a strongly discharged battery (say less than 50% remaining), the charge proceeds at a high rate and stops a bit early.  Removing the battery at this point and re-inserting it gives a fuller charge, but this is a hassle.  If you prefer to stick batteries in the charger at the end of the day and take them off the charger in the morning, there is a second problem -- in some Nitecore chargers the batteries discharge after charging is completed, leaving them at 70-80% or some unsatisfactory value in the morning.  So these chargers are useful but have their weaknesses and need a little care. 

I became disillusioned with NiteCore a few years ago, but still use them.  LeicaStoreMiami was carrying them for a year around then, but quietly removed them from the site.  In the mean time, things may well have changed.

Edited November 24, 2020 by scott kirkpatrick