Battery for Sony A6000 Camera: Complete Guide!
The battery for Sony A6000 camera plays a key role in how long you can shoot, how portable your gear is, and whether you’re fully prepared when shooting video or photos. The A6000 is a powerful mirrorless camera that requires a reliable power source to operate at its best. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything from the official Sony battery to third-party alternatives, battery life, charging methods, safety tips, and much more.
What Battery Does the Sony A6000 Use?
The Sony A6000 uses the Sony NP-FW50 battery pack. It’s a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that operates at 7.4V and provides a capacity of 1020mAh. This power source has been a standard for many of Sony’s mirrorless models.
One of the advantages of the Sony A6000 is its support for internal charging via USB, meaning you can recharge the battery inside the camera by simply plugging it into a USB port on your laptop or wall adapter, perfect for travel situations.
Sony NP-FW50 Battery: Detailed Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Battery Type | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion |
| Voltage | 7.4V |
| Capacity | 1020mAh |
| Weight | 43g |
| Dimensions (mm) | 31 × 18 × 45 |
| Compatibility | Sony A6000 & other models |
| Charging Support | In-camera via USB, external chargers |
The battery for Sony A6000 camera is compact, lightweight, and designed for seamless integration with the A6000’s power system.
How Long Does a Sony A6000 Battery Last?
According to CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) standards, the NP-FW50 provides around 360 shots per charge in the Sony A6000. Real-world performance depends on your usage habits:
- Using the LCD screen drains battery faster than the EVF.
- Frequent on/off cycling also consumes more energy.
- Cold environments may reduce battery life.
- Video shooting depletes the battery quicker than photography.
With efficient settings and power-saving habits, you can stretch the battery to 400+ images or 1–2 hours of video recording.
Best Third-Party Batteries for Sony A6000
Due to the relatively high price of the official Sony battery (around $70–90), many users opt for third-party batteries. These alternatives can cost 30–70% less and often come with dual charger kits.
Top-Rated Third-Party Brands:
1. Wasabi Power
Well-known in North America. Offers decent capacity and reliability. Comes with a dual USB charger.
2. Patona
Popular in Europe. Known for build quality and consistency.
3. Neewer
Affordable and widely available. Good performance for casual shooters.
4. SmallRig & Powerextra
Offer USB-C charging options and high-efficiency batteries.
| Brand | Avg. Capacity | Price (Set of 2) | Includes Charger |
| Wasabi Power | 1100mAh | $29–35 | Yes |
| Patona | 1030mAh | $28–33 | Yes |
| Neewer | 1100mAh | $25–30 | Yes |
These batteries are usually available on trusted platforms like Amazon or B&H Photo.
Sony NP-FW50 vs Third-Party Batteries
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Sony NP-FW50 | Third-Party Brands |
| Price | $$$ | $–$$ |
| Compatibility | 100% | Varies |
| Camera Warning Messages | None | Sometimes possible |
| Battery Life | Consistent | Varies |
| Safety Standards | High | Brand-dependent |
While genuine Sony batteries guarantee compatibility and safety, reputable third-party brands are a great value for backup or casual use.
How to Charge Sony A6000 Battery Efficiently
You can charge the battery inside the camera or with an external charger.
Charging Options:
- In-camera via USB cable (included with camera)
- Sony BC-TRW Charger (official external charger)
- Third-party dual chargers with LCD display or USB-C input
For travel or events, it’s best to carry at least two fully charged batteries and a portable dual charger for flexibility.
How to Store and Maintain NP-FW50 Batteries
To store and maintain NP-FW50 batteries for your Sony a6000 properly, it’s important to follow a few key guidelines. First, if you’re not planning to use the battery for a few weeks, store it with a charge level between 40% and 60%. This range helps reduce long-term stress on the battery cells. Additionally, it’s a good idea to recharge the battery every three months if it’s sitting unused, as lithium-ion batteries slowly self-discharge over time.
Always store the batteries in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing them to extreme heat or cold, which can permanently damage the internal chemistry. Using a dedicated battery case or protective sleeve can also prevent accidental short circuits and physical damage. Keep in mind that all lithium-ion batteries naturally degrade over time, so even if a pack is never used, it will eventually lose capacity. Proper care can slow this process and extend the battery’s useful lifespan.
Battery Safety Tips for Sony A6000 Users
- Avoid counterfeit batteries from unknown sellers
- Check for bulging, overheating, or leakage
- Don’t charge with damaged or cheap chargers
- Discard batteries at e-waste recycling centers
Never expose batteries to fire or water, and always use trusted charging gear.
Compatible Sony Cameras That Use NP-FW50
The following Sony models also use the NP-FW50 battery:
| Camera Model | Battery Life | Sensor Size | Resolution |
| Sony A6000 | 360 shots | APS-C | 24.3 MP |
| Sony A7 | 340 shots | Full Frame | 24.0 MP |
| Sony A5100 | 400 shots | APS-C | 24.3 MP |
| Sony ZV-E10 | 440 shots | APS-C | 24.2 MP |
| Sony NEX-5N | 460 shots | APS-C | 16.1 MP |
| Sony A6400 | 410 shots | APS-C | 24.2 MP |
This makes the NP-FW50 a good investment if you own or plan to buy more Sony cameras.
Where to Buy Sony A6000 Batteries
Genuine Batteries:
- Sony Official Store
- B&H Photo
- Adorama
- Amazon
Third-Party Alternatives:
- Neewer Official Store
- Wasabi Power
- eBay
Make sure to check ratings and reviews to avoid counterfeit products.
FAQs About Battery for Sony A6000 Camera
1. Can I use a different battery model in the Sony A6000?
No. The Sony A6000 only accepts NP-FW50 batteries.
2. Is it safe to use third-party batteries?
Yes, if you choose reputable brands like Wasabi or Patona.
3. Can I charge the battery inside the Sony A6000?
Yes. Plug a micro-USB cable into the camera and charge it directly.
4. How long does a full battery last during video recording?
Approximately 60–75 minutes, depending on resolution and usage.
5. Can I bring Sony A6000 batteries on a plane?
Yes. NP-FW50 batteries are below TSA’s 100Wh limit.
6. What should I do with old batteries?
Recycle them at certified electronics recycling centers or return to stores that accept used batteries.
7. Why does my third-party battery show an error on my A6000?
Some brands are not fully compatible or lack chip authentication. Use a better-quality brand.
Final Thoughts: Best Battery Options for Sony A6000 Camera
Choosing the right battery for Sony A6000 camera is essential for dependable performance whether you’re shooting stills or video. The Sony NP-FW50 is reliable and long-lasting but comes at a premium. Trusted third-party alternatives like Wasabi Power, Patona, and Neewer offer excellent value, especially when bundled with chargers.
For best results, always carry an extra battery, store it properly, and use certified charging equipment. Investing in the right power accessories will keep your A6000 running smoothly and help you avoid interruptions during critical moments.
