Best Spare Batteries for Canon EOS-1D X Mark II
The Canon EOS-1D X Mark II is a legendary workhorse, but its high-speed 14fps burst and 4K video capabilities are incredibly power-hungry. If you’re shooting sports or a wedding, running out of juice mid-action is a nightmare. While the original Canon LP-E19 remains the gold standard for reaching maximum frame rates, several third-party alternatives offer compelling value. In this guide, I’ll break down the best spare batteries to keep your flagship firing without breaking the bank.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Spare Batteries for Canon EOS-1D X Mark II: Detailed Reviews
Canon LP-E19 Battery Pack View on Amazon View on B&H
When you are shooting with a flagship body like the 1D X Mark II, the OEM Canon LP-E19 is the only way to guarantee 100% performance. This 2700mAh Lithium-Ion pack provides the necessary voltage to hit the camera’s maximum 14 fps (and 16 fps in Live View). I’ve found that while third-party batteries often claim compatibility, they sometimes cause the burst rate to throttle down slightly as the charge drops. The LP-E19 communicates perfectly with the camera’s internal “Battery Info” menu, giving you precise remaining capacity and shutter count data. It is weather-sealed to match the body, making it the only choice for shooting in rain or dust. The only real downside is the premium price tag, but for a professional assignment where every frame counts, the peace of mind is worth every cent. It’s a rock-solid performer that lasts for over 1,200 shots per charge.
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Wasabi Power LP-E19 2-Pack View on Amazon View on B&H
If you need multiple spares without spending $500, Wasabi Power is my go-to recommendation. This kit includes two batteries and a compact dual-USB charger, which is significantly more portable than Canon’s massive LC-E19 dual charger. In my testing, these cells offer about 85-90% of the runtime of the original Canon battery. They are “fully decoded,” meaning the camera won’t pop up an annoying warning message, and you can still see the power levels on your top LCD screen. While they struggle slightly more in extreme freezing temperatures compared to the OEM version, they are incredibly reliable for general use. The included charger is a lifesaver for travel because it can be powered by a power bank or car adapter. For the price of one Canon battery, you get two spares and a versatile charging solution, making this the best value proposition currently on the market for 1D series owners.
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BM Premium LP-E19 Battery View on Amazon View on B&H
The BM Premium LP-E19 is the “no-frills” option for photographers on a tight budget. Despite its ambitious 3500mAh label—which feels a bit optimistic compared to the OEM 2700mAh—it delivers solid, consistent power for standard stills photography. I’ve noticed that it fits the battery chamber of the 1D X Mark II perfectly, which isn’t always a given with cheaper brands. While it handles the 14fps burst reasonably well when full, you might notice the drive speed dropping sooner than it would with a Canon battery. It doesn’t feature the same high-quality weather sealing around the battery door edge, so I wouldn’t recommend it for a rainy sideline shoot. However, for studio work or as an emergency “third” backup in your bag, it is unbeatable at this price point. It charges perfectly in the original Canon LC-E19 charger, which is a major plus for convenience.
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Watson LP-E19 Lithium-Ion Battery View on Amazon View on B&H
Watson has built a reputation among professionals for being the most reliable third-party battery brand. Their LP-E19 version is no exception. While it still sits below the Canon OEM in terms of absolute peak performance longevity, it feels much more robust than the cheaper budget alternatives. The internal circuitry is designed to prevent overcharging and short-circuiting, which provides peace of mind when putting it inside a $6,000 camera body. In my experience, the discharge curve is very predictable; you won’t see the battery percentage “jump” from 20% to dead suddenly. It also supports the 1D X Mark II’s calibration feature, allowing the charger to accurately reset the battery’s internal capacity meter. If you want the reliability of Canon but need to save about 30-40% on the cost, the Watson is the most “professional” alternative you can find at major retailers like B&H.
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Kastar LP-E19 Replacement Battery View on Amazon View on B&H
The Kastar LP-E19 is another solid contender that often flies under the radar. It matches the 2700mAh capacity of the original and performs remarkably well during 4K video recording, which is one of the 1D X Mark II’s most demanding tasks. I’ve used Kastar batteries for years in various bodies, and they tend to have a very low failure rate. The build quality is decent, though the plastic feels slightly thinner than the OEM Canon casing. One thing to note is that it doesn’t always come with the protective terminal cover, so you’ll want to reuse an old one to keep the contacts clean in your bag. It is fully compatible with the 1D X Mark II’s dual charger, and the camera correctly displays the “Recharge Performance” health status. It’s a dependable, middle-of-the-road choice for those who find Wasabi too “consumer” and Watson too “expensive.”
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Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best LP-E19 Battery
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon LP-E19 | Max Performance | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Wasabi 2-Pack | Travel/Value | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| BM Premium | Tight Budgets | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Watson LP-E19 | Pro Backup | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Kastar LP-E19 | General Use | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the older LP-E4N batteries in the 1D X Mark II?
Yes, you can use the older LP-E4 and LP-E4N batteries from the 1D X or 1D Mark IV. However, there is a catch: the camera will throttle its maximum burst rate from 14fps down to approximately 12fps. The newer LP-E19 provides the specific voltage required for the 1D X Mark II’s upgraded motor system to hit its full speed, especially when shooting through the viewfinder.
Why does my battery percentage drop faster at high frame rates?
Shooting at 14fps requires a massive burst of energy to move the mirror and shutter rapidly. This creates a high draw on the battery cells. In cold weather, this effect is magnified. To maintain peak performance, it is recommended to swap to a fresh battery once yours drops below 30%, as the camera may automatically reduce the frame rate to prevent a total power failure during a burst.
Are third-party batteries safe for my 1D X Mark II?
Generally, yes, if you stick to reputable brands like Watson or Wasabi. These brands include safety chips to prevent overcharging. However, the 1D X series is very sensitive to voltage. Cheap, non-branded batteries may lack proper weather sealing gaskets, which could allow moisture into the battery compartment, potentially damaging the camera’s internal electronics. Always check for the rubber gasket on the battery’s outer plate.
How many shots can I expect per charge?
With a genuine LP-E19, you should expect around 1,210 shots per charge according to CIPA standards. In real-world sports shooting where you use long bursts, I’ve easily squeezed over 2,500 shots out of a single battery. Using Live View or recording 4K 60p video will significantly reduce this number, often providing about 40–50 minutes of continuous recording time per charge.
Do I need a new charger for the LP-E19?
The LP-E19 is best charged with the LC-E19 dual charger that came with your 1D X Mark II. While it will fit in the older LC-E4 chargers, it may not reach a 100% full charge or may charge significantly slower. Third-party USB chargers are convenient for travel and charging via power banks, but they generally take much longer to reach a full charge compared to the Canon wall unit.
Final Verdict
For professional sports and wildlife photographers, the Canon LP-E19 is the only way to ensure your 1D X Mark II performs as advertised. However, if you’re a wedding photographer or hobbyist who needs multiple spares for a long weekend, the Wasabi Power 2-pack is a fantastic alternative that includes a travel-friendly charger. If you simply need a “just in case” battery at the bottom of your bag, the BM Premium offers a functional, low-cost solution.