Nikon MH-26a/EN-EL18B options for D850 users?

Chris_911

Chris_911

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So I have a D850 on order along with the MB-D18 grip.
I'm hoping that Nikon will put together a package around the MB-D18 and the battery, battery cover and charger - but I'm not holding my breath (I don't think there has been any precedent).
The battery cost I can kinda live with(!) but the charger is proving an issue, simply in terms of availability.
I can't find anyone that has an MH-26a in stock - not even the Nikon UK store (which also doesn't show the BL-5 cover at all).
It seems as though there is an Expro MH-26 equivalent charger, bot nothing stated as MH-26a compatible.
What is the difference between a MH-26 and a MH-26a charger?

Any D5 users out there with any knowledge/experience to share on this subject?
TIA.
 
I have raised a query with Nikon UK regarding the availability of both the MH-26a charger and BL-5 battery cover. This is the response:

'Both the MH-26a charger and BL-5 battery cover have been discontinued on our online store. You may, however, have some luck on the second hand market. For example. Ebay or Amazon.'

So much for buying a D850 and achieving the 9fps!!
 
I'm looking into this also, from what I can see a compatible charger should work and I question if a EN-EL18B is actually required an if a EN-EL18A (which can be purchased cheap) would give the same results as power is almost the same. I think the B has better heat etc.
 
Jase said:
I'm looking into this also, from what I can see a compatible charger should work and I question if a EN-EL18B is actually required an if a EN-EL18A (which can be purchased cheap) would give the same results as power is almost the same. I think the B has better heat etc.
Click to expand...
I will be very interested to see what you find.
I've asked Nikon how they expect D850 users to charge their EN-EL18bs and use them safely in the grip! I await their answer with interest.
 
Chris_911 said:
I will be very interested to see what you find.
I've asked Nikon how they expect D850 users to charge their EN-EL18bs and use them safely in the grip! I await their answer with interest.
Click to expand...

Will do soon as I have proper confirmation but it looks like both EL18A and EL18B will give 9 fps
 
Chris_911 said:
I will be very interested to see what you find.
I've asked Nikon how they expect D850 users to charge their EN-EL18bs and use them safely in the grip! I await their answer with interest.
Click to expand...

Chris, I will bottom this out tomorrow will be doing a 'hands on' down in Vauxhall.
 
when nikon had the same setup with the D700, they / retailers obviously made a kit available. Don't panic, Nikon only released this camera last week, and haven't shipped any yet.... 3rd party will of course also always be the cheaper option, I don't think there's ever been a battery 'encryption' that hasn't been 'cracked' incredibly quickly.
 
Jase said:
Thanks, can I ask how you know that?
Click to expand...
There's no external physical difference and they all output 10.8v. The EL18 is 2000mah. The EL18a/b are 2500mah. The EL18b has different internal circuitry that allows it to output more amperage quickly with less heat buildup.
They all work in my D5 and D810 grip...
 
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sk66 said:
There's no external physical difference and they all output 10.8v. The EL18 is 2000mah. The EL18a/b are 2500mah. The EL18b has different internal circuitry that allows it to output more amperage quickly with less heat buildup.
They all work in my D5 and D810 grip...
Click to expand...

Thanks, that's what I had based my original reply on, guess I'll just have to try it :)
 
Spoke to a Nikon D850 expert today and got hands on. The rechargeable battery for the grip is a non-Issue and us being addressed. The D850s should be leaving the warehouse in the next 8-9 days for the NPS members and pre-orders.
 
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