Most Nikon Speedlights are designed to be used with four AA-size batteries of 1.5v or lower. There are many types of these batteries available, Nikon recommends different batteries depending on the Speedlight used. Below is a list of currently recommended batteries however please check your Speedlight's manual for exact details of compatibility with the following battery types:
(1) Alkaline-manganese (1.5V)
(2) Lithium (1.5V)
(3) Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) (rechargeable, 1.2V)
High-power manganese batteries are not recommended for use with Nikon Speedlights. Flash recycling speed and number of total flashes available depends on the battery type in use. Generally batteries with a slower recycling time provide a higher number of flashes due to the properties of the battery type.
In order of recycling speed:
- Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride)
- Alkaline-manganese
- Lithium
In order of the number of flashes:
- Lithium
- Alkaline-manganese
- Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride)
The SB-R200, SU-800, SB-50DX and SB-30 both use 3v lithium batteries (CR123A or DL123A), the SB-50DX use two while the SB-R200, SU-800 and SB-30 require a single battery. Other types of batteries should not be used with these Speedlights. The SB-N7 uses 3x AAA batteries while the SB-N5 draws power directly from the camera’s battery and does not require external batteries.
Using batteries not specified in the instruction manual of the Speedlight may void your warranty as they may explode, leak corrosive liquids, or catch fire.
Depending on battery specifications, when the battery becomes hot, the safety circuits are activated, cutting off power. This often occurs when the flash unit is operated in the repeating flash mode. Battery power will recover when the temperature returns to normal.
Because a flash unit consumes a large amount of battery power, rechargeable batteries may not operate properly before reaching the end of their stated lifespan or the number of charging/discharging as specified by the battery manufacturer.
Important: When replacing batteries, replace all batteries at the same time. Do not mix battery types or brands or use old with new batteries. When installing batteries, turn the power of the Speedlight off, and never reverse the polarity of the batteries.
Battery power tends to weaken as the temperature drops. It also gradually decreases when batteries are not used for a long period of time and recovers after a short break following intensive use. Be sure to check battery power and replace the batteries with fresh ones, if you notice any delays in recycling time.
