Charging time depends on the battery type and charger you use

Canon batteries typically take between 1.5 and 3 hours to charge fully, but the exact time depends on which battery model you own and which charger you're using. Smaller batteries like the LP-E17 (used in entry-level Canon cameras) charge faster than larger ones like the LP-E6NH (used in professional models). Using Canon's standard charger versus a third-party charger, or a fast charger versus a basic one, also changes how long you wait.

The battery's capacity matters most. A battery with 1,040 mAh (milliamp-hours) charges much faster than one with 3,730 mAh. If you're buying a new Canon camera, the charger in the box is designed for that specific battery, so you can expect the times listed below to be accurate for your setup.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard Canon chargers take 1.5 to 3 hours depending on battery capacity, with smaller batteries finishing in under 2 hours.
  • The LP-E17 battery (common in Canon M and entry-level DSLRs) charges in about 1.5 hours with the LC-E17 charger.
  • The LP-E6NH battery (used in professional Canon cameras) takes 2.5 to 3 hours with the LC-E6 charger.
  • Fast chargers and USB-C charging options can reduce charging time by 30 to 50 percent compared to standard chargers.
  • Charging time increases if the battery is very cold or if you're using a charger not designed for that specific battery model.

Common Canon battery models and their charging times

The LP-E17 is one of the most common Canon batteries, found in the EOS M50, M6, M100, and entry-level DSLR models like the EOS Rebel T8i. With the standard LC-E17 charger, it takes about 1.5 hours to charge fully. This battery holds 1,040 mAh, so it's one of the faster ones to charge.

The LP-E6NH is Canon's professional battery, used in the EOS R5, R6, R7, and higher-end DSLR bodies. It has 3,730 mAh capacity and takes 2.5 to 3 hours with the LC-E6 charger. If you own a Canon R-series mirrorless camera, this is likely your battery.

The LP-E10 (used in older Canon Rebels like the T3, T5, and T6) charges in about 2 hours with the LC-E10 charger. The LP-E8 (found in the EOS 700D, 650D, and 600D) takes roughly 2.5 hours. Both are older designs but still in use with second-hand cameras.

Canon also makes the LP-E12 for the EOS M and M2 cameras, which charges in about 2 hours, and the LP-E19 for the EOS R3 and R1, which takes 3 hours or more due to its 4,860 mAh capacity.

How fast chargers and USB-C options change charging time

Canon's standard chargers are designed to be safe and gentle on battery lifespan, which means they charge at a moderate speed. If you want faster charging, Canon offers fast-charging options for some models. The LC-E6E is a fast charger for LP-E6 batteries that reduces charging time from 3 hours to about 1.5 hours.

Some newer Canon batteries support USB-C charging directly. The LP-E6NH can be charged via USB-C with compatible chargers, cutting the time to around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the power adapter you use. A higher-wattage USB-C power supply (65W or more) charges faster than a standard 5W phone charger.

Third-party chargers vary widely in speed and safety. Some are faster than Canon's standard chargers, while others are slower or may not charge evenly. If you buy a third-party charger, check the product specifications for the estimated charging time and read reviews from users with your specific battery model.

Factors that slow down charging

Battery temperature affects charging speed significantly. If a battery is very cold (below 50°F or 10°C), most chargers will charge it more slowly to prevent damage. Letting the battery warm to room temperature before charging speeds up the process. Some chargers have a temperature sensor that pauses charging if the battery is too cold.

Using the wrong charger for your battery can also slow things down. A charger designed for a different battery model may charge at a lower rate for safety reasons. Always use the charger that came with your battery or one explicitly labeled as compatible with your specific model.

Battery age and condition matter too. An older battery that has been through many charge cycles may charge more slowly than a new one. If a battery is damaged or has internal resistance issues, the charger may reduce its output to prevent overheating.

How to charge your Canon battery safely

Use the charger that came with your camera or one designed specifically for your battery model. Chargers are labeled with the battery type they support (for example, "LC-E17 for LP-E17"). Mixing chargers and batteries can result in slower charging or, in rare cases, damage.

Charge in a room-temperature environment when possible. Avoid charging in direct sunlight, in a car on a hot day, or in a freezing garage. Most Canon chargers have a light that turns green when charging is complete — don't leave the battery in the charger for days after it's full, as this can reduce long-term battery health.

If you own multiple batteries, rotate them during use rather than always using the same one. This spreads wear evenly and keeps all your batteries in better condition over time. Store unused batteries in a cool, dry place, not in a hot camera bag or car.

Charging multiple batteries at once

Most Canon chargers hold one battery at a time, so if you have two or three batteries, you'll need to charge them sequentially. A single LP-E17 takes 1.5 hours, so charging three in a row takes about 4.5 hours. If you shoot frequently and need multiple batteries ready, consider buying a dual-slot charger or a USB-C hub charger that can handle two batteries simultaneously.

Some third-party manufacturers make dual-battery chargers for popular Canon models. These can charge two batteries at once, cutting your total charging time in half. Check that any third-party charger you buy has good reviews and is designed for your specific battery model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge a Canon battery in my camera?

Some newer Canon cameras with USB-C ports (like the EOS R5, R6, and R7) can charge batteries inside the camera using a USB-C cable and power adapter. This takes longer than using an external charger — typically 3 to 4 hours — but is convenient if you don't have a separate charger with you. Check your camera's manual to see if this feature is supported.

Is it bad to leave a Canon battery charging overnight?

Most modern Canon chargers stop charging once the battery is full and won't overcharge it. Leaving a battery in the charger overnight occasionally won't cause immediate damage, but regularly doing so can slightly reduce the battery's lifespan over time. It's better to unplug the charger once the light turns green.

Why is my Canon battery charging slowly?

The battery may be cold, the charger may not be designed for that battery model, or the battery itself may be old or damaged. Try warming the battery to room temperature and using the correct charger. If it still charges slowly, the battery may need replacement.

Can I use a USB power bank to charge my Canon battery?

Only if your battery supports USB-C charging directly (like the LP-E6NH) and your power bank has a USB-C output. Standard Canon batteries require a dedicated charger and cannot be charged from a power bank. Check your battery's specifications to confirm USB-C support.

How long does a Canon battery last after it's fully charged?

That depends on your camera model and how much you shoot. A fully charged battery typically lasts for 300 to 900 shots, with mirrorless cameras generally using more power than DSLRs. Cold weather, using the LCD screen constantly, and continuous autofocus all drain the battery faster.