New batteries & chargers from Hähnel

Anyone who’s shooting video with a Canon or Nikon DSLR will know just how much the official batteries and chargers cost (hint: a lot). So some relief may be instore from accessories firm Hähnel as they’ve launched new batteries, a charger and a travel USB charger.

The “Extreme li-Ion” batteries are available as E6 and E8 versions for Canon, and EL14 and EL15 for Nikon. Hähnel says each battery is injected with silicone giving them a tough, shock absorbing construction, “built to withstand the tough environments …. in extreme field conditions” – sounds like a challenge to us!

The firm also says its own tests showed a 24% increase in shots using their battery than an original LP-E6 though the nature of the tests was not specified so best always to take such measurements with a certain pinch of salt as your own use may differ.

The ProCube is a funky-looking dual charger that works on two batteries simultaneously. It can also charge 4 AA batteries and offers USB charging too. Estimated charging times are 1.5 hours for a single battery and 2-3 hours for two. It costs £59.99 and comes with interchangeable UK, Euro and US plugs as well as a 12V car lead.

Finally the Duo Traveller is a mains-to-USB charger with two slots, again working simultaneously. It comes with interchangeable plugs for the UK, Europe, Australia and the USA though you still need to have the appropriate charging cable for your device of course. Hähnel claims it’s compatible with the iPad, iPhone, iPod, Samsung Galaxy, HTC, Sony Xperia, Nexus etc. It’s a very reasonable £19.99