Best Spare Battery for Panasonic Lumix S5 II
The Panasonic Lumix S5 II is a powerhouse, but its phase-detection autofocus and high-bitrate 6K video capabilities are notoriously thirsty for power. Nothing kills a creative flow faster than the dreaded flashing red battery icon mid-shoot. While the native battery is solid, professional hybrid workflows demand reliable spares. I’ve tested various options, and while the OEM Panasonic DMW-BLK22 remains the gold standard for reliability, innovative USB-C third-party alternatives are quickly becoming my personal favorites for travel.
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Best Spare Battery for Panasonic Lumix S5 II: Detailed Reviews
Panasonic DMW-BLK22 View on Amazon View on B&H
When you are on a paid set, the last thing you want is a “communication error” message on your S5 II screen. The official Panasonic DMW-BLK22 is the exact battery that ships with the camera, offering 2200mAh of capacity and 7.2V of stable power. I find that these OEM batteries handle heat much better during long 4K 60p recording sessions compared to cheaper alternatives. They are fully decoded, meaning you get an accurate percentage readout on your EVF right down to 1%. While they are significantly more expensive than third-party options, the peace of mind they provide for critical work is worth the investment. You won’t have to worry about swelling or firmware lockouts after a camera update, which has happened with some older third-party chips. It’s the boring choice, but undeniably the best for professionals.
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SmallRig DMW-BLK22 USB-C View on Amazon View on B&H
SmallRig has genuinely disrupted the battery market with their USB-C rechargeable line. This DMW-BLK22 variant features a 2400mAh capacity—actually higher than the original—and a built-in USB-C port. This means you can charge the battery directly from a power bank or car charger without carrying a bulky external cradle. In my experience, this is a game-changer for lightweight travel kits. The battery is fully decoded, so the S5 II displays the remaining life accurately. The build quality feels premium with a fire-retardant shell, though I’ve noticed it charges slightly slower through the USB-C port than it does in a dedicated high-speed wall charger. For anyone who hates cable clutter, this is the smartest value proposition on the market today. It bridges the gap between third-party pricing and OEM performance perfectly.
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BM Premium DMW-BLK22 2-Pack View on Amazon View on B&H
If you’ve just spent a couple of thousand dollars on your Lumix S5 II body and lenses, you might be looking for a way to save on accessories. The BM Premium 2-pack offers two batteries and a dual-slot USB charger for less than half the price of a single Panasonic battery. While the listed 2250mAh feels slightly optimistic in real-world usage—I find they last about 15-20% shorter than the OEM version—they are fantastic as “emergency” backups. The included charger is slim and can be powered via Micro-USB or USB-C, which is very convenient. The batteries are decoded, so you won’t get annoying pop-up warnings. Just be aware that third-party batteries like these can sometimes lose their charge faster when sitting in a camera bag for weeks, so I always recommend topping them off the night before a big outing.
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Neewer DMW-BLK22 USB-C 2400mAh View on Amazon View on B&H
Neewer has stepped up their game significantly with this premium USB-C rechargeable DMW-BLK22. It boasts a 2400mAh capacity, which provides a noticeable bump in runtime during 6K Open Gate recording on the S5 II. What sets this apart from cheaper third-party options is the quality of the internal protection circuitry. It features multi-level protection against over-charging, short-circuits, and high temperatures. I especially like the small LED indicator on the battery itself that changes from red to green when it’s finished charging via USB-C. It feels incredibly dense and well-constructed, fitting into the S5 II battery compartment with zero friction. For the hybrid shooter who wants the convenience of USB-C charging without sacrificing the build quality and safety standards of a professional tool, this is my top recommendation.
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Wasabi Power DMW-BLK22 2-Pack View on Amazon View on B&H
Wasabi Power has been a staple in the camera community for years, and their BLK22 iteration continues that legacy. While many generic batteries use mystery cells, Wasabi is generally more transparent about their quality control. The main reason to choose Wasabi over other budget brands is their excellent 3-year warranty and US-based support. If a battery starts to swell or fails to hold a charge prematurely, they actually stand by the product. These batteries are 7.2V and 2250mAh, providing performance that is very close to the original Panasonic cells. The kit usually comes with a compact wall charger that features a fold-out plug, which I find much better for hotel room charging than chargers with long, messy cables. They aren’t the cheapest, but they are the most reliable of the “traditional” third-party manufacturers.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Spare Battery for Lumix S5 II
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic OEM | Pro Work | ★★★★★ | Check |
| SmallRig USB-C | Convenience | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| BM Premium | Bulk Power | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Neewer USB-C | Video Pros | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Wasabi Power | Reliability | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the older BLF19 batteries in the S5 II?
Technically, the BLF19 (from the GH5) fits the slot, but it is not recommended for the S5 II. The BLK22 has an extra contact point required for the S5 II’s power management and the higher voltage needed for certain video modes. Using the older batteries may limit your recording options or cause the camera to shut down during high-bitrate tasks.
Can I charge the S5 II via USB-C while shooting?
Yes, the Lumix S5 II supports USB Power Delivery (USB-PD). This allows you to power the camera and charge the internal battery simultaneously using a compatible power bank. However, you still need a battery inside the camera for this to work. This is a great solution for long timelapse photography or studio streaming sessions.
Are third-party batteries safe for the S5 II?
Generally, yes, provided you buy from reputable brands like SmallRig, Neewer, or Wasabi. The main risk with very cheap “no-name” batteries is swelling, which can make them difficult to remove from the camera. Always inspect your batteries for any signs of bulging and stop using them immediately if they appear deformed or get excessively hot.
How long does a battery last for 4K video?
In real-world conditions with the S5 II, you can expect roughly 60 to 90 minutes of continuous 4K recording per charge. Factors like screen brightness, autofocus usage, and the internal fan setting will impact this. If you are shooting 6K Open Gate, the battery drain is slightly faster due to the increased processing power required.
Why do some batteries have a USB-C port on them?
Batteries with built-in USB-C ports (like the SmallRig and Neewer models) allow you to charge the battery directly with a phone charger or power bank. This eliminates the need for a dedicated external battery cradle. It’s incredibly useful for travel, as it reduces the number of accessories you need to pack in your camera bag.
Final Verdict
If you are a professional whose livelihood depends on your S5 II, stick with the Panasonic OEM batteries; they are built to handle the heat of long productions. For everyone else, I highly recommend the SmallRig or Neewer USB-C versions. The ability to charge your spares with the same cable you use for your phone is a massive quality-of-life improvement. If you’re just starting out and need a handful of spares for a weekend trip, the BM Premium 2-pack offers the best bang for your buck.