Have you recently bought a new camera? If yes, you’re probably planning to grab a few backup batteries. But you are confused between decoded batteries and OEM batteries.
Without knowing the proper features of one battery, you mustn’t insert it on your camera. Because it may cause unrepairable damage to your camera and lower its performance.
So, what is a decoded battery?
Decoded battery is basically a replica version of an OEM battery. These batteries don’t contain any microchips for counting the captured shots and the battery percentage. Other than that, decoded ones work almost as same as the real ones.
Well, this much information isn’t sufficient enough to reach the final verdict. Here, we will be discussing the features, uses, pros, and cons more widely.
With that said, let’s begin!
What Actually Is A Decoded Battery?
In the photography industry, you will find two types of batteries. One is the branded batteries and the other type is the decoded batteries.
You might be wondering what’s a decoded camera battery?
Third-party manufacturer companies produce replica versions of the original one in a cheaper price range. Those unofficial batteries are known as decoded batteries. Eventually, this non-original power supply tool of your cam almost works as real batteries.
Anyways, let’s focus on some distinct features of decoded batteries.
Stay tuned!
Distinct Features
Third-party decoded batteries are mainly lithium-ion batteries that are broadly used in portable electronics. Decoded batteries have two different sub-sections as per the camera model requirements.
Two of these are: fully decoded and half coded battery. You can search on the internet about what is a fully decoded battery and vice-versa.
Therefore, you must learn the requirement of your cam first and use batteries accordingly. Just like, learning the size chart of your tripod screw to place the camera on the tripod correctly.
Microchip
The main distinguishing feature of those batteries is the microchip. Generally, OEM batteries have a microchip that counts the captured numbers and charge percentage.
You have probably noticed those numbers on your display already!
But eventually, decoded batteries don’t have any microchips on them. Probably, it’s because it will raise the price bar a little higher.
Other than that, decoded batteries are really a great choice indeed.
Performance
In most scenarios, decode batteries will provide you with better amperage and voltage numbers.
Usually, third-party decoded batteries have a larger capacity of amperage and voltage so that they can compete with OEM batteries.
Competing with a certain brand, manufacturers will definitely add some extra benefits to their product. So, you can get good quality and better experience in a handsome price range.
However, the bigger capacity(Ah) and cutoff(V) will provide you with extra time.
Nevertheless, it means you will get extra few minutes while capturing photos with a decoded battery.
Thus, if you know what is a decoded camera battery properly you can definitely rely on them.
Price
Well, price is the biggest concern while buying a battery for your cam. Branded batteries are extremely costly and provide less charge duration.
Whereas, decoded batteries are truly inexpensive and reliable. You can buy up to 4 batteries at the price of one branded battery. Moreover, the outlook is as similar as the real ones.
Hence you have the chance to charge your decoded batteries on your branded charger. Even though, some third-party companies offer distinct chargers as well.
Now, we hope your concepts are clear about what does decoded battery actually means.
The difference Between Decoded Battery And Branded Battery
OEM goes for “Original Equipment Manufacturer”. OEM batteries are actually designed by the real manufacturers of a particular camera brand. Most major camera brands produce their own batteries.
Even though it might seem decoded batteries are carbon copies of OEM batteries. Still, there is a thin line between an original version and a third-party version.
The difference is as distinctive as 20mm vs 24mm.
You can get an initial perception from this chart below-
| Feature | Decoded Battery | OEM Battery |
| Amperage | Higher | Lower |
| Voltage | Higher | Lower |
| Time Duration | Larger | Comparatively Similar |
| Quality | Average | High |
| Price | Cheap | Expensive |
From this chart, you will get the exact answer for what is meant by decoded battery. Compare to OEM batteries, decode batteries will serve you with higher amperage, voltage as well as time duration.
For example, the original version of the Canon LP-E6N battery can go up to 1865 milliamps along with 7.2 volts. Moreover, its time duration is 14-watt hours.
Now, you might be thinking what is a canon decoded battery?
Well, Vivitar- a third-party manufacturer company produces the model LP-E6N battery. This battery comes with 2000 milliamps, 7.4 volts, and 14.8-watt hours.
The same comparison will be applicable for Different models like LP-E10, LP-E12, LP-E6, LP-E17 decoded batteries, and so on.
These performance distinctions attract many photographers toward the decoded batteries.
But when it comes to the quality, OEM batteries have always taken the superior palace.
Brand manufacturers ensure high quality while producing one battery. It might seem that decoded batteries are performing better than OEMs.
But in the long run, their performance decreases drastically. Meanwhile, the OEM battery will keep the battery healthy for a longer period of time.
But it is true that original batteries are more costly than third-party decoded batteries. In some cases, you can buy 2-4 third-party batteries at the price of a single branded battery. The price difference is huge!
Now, the decision is up to you. If you don’t have any budget constraints, then we’ll definitely suggest buying the OEM battery.
But if you’re on a budget, you can definitely try the decoded ones as well. No doubt decoded batteries will eventually provide better performance.
Though you have to learn to decode a battery too.
FAQs
Why do Brands charge huge amounts on DSLR batteries?
Well, the brands only manufacture OEM batteries which are generally more costly than any third-party manufacturer. The branded logo raises the brand value of the battery as well. Moreover, brands appreciate that some photographers are truly fascinated by buying the brand name.
What does OEM refer to on a battery?
The full form of OEM is ‘Original Equipment Manufacturer’. OEM is applied in multiple industries to denote the concept of product manufacturing. In the photography industry, OEM battery means, the camera brand itself manufactures the tool. The OEM ones are really expensive yet have more qualities.
Are non-OEM batteries compatible enough?
Well, the answer is yes and no at the same time. Generally, non-OEM batteries are the replica version of OEM batteries. Non-OEM batteries are cheaper and less-qualities. Its power-consuming level and longevity are not as high as real ones. In addition, these batteries can damage your camera and degrade its performance.
Final Verdict
That’s all for today. Hopefully, what is a decoded battery is understandable to you now. We’ve tried to bring up all the necessary information regarding your concern topic.
If you have the budget, we will suggest you go with the OEM ones. These will provide a better experience along with longevity.
Have a great day!