I'm considering the Sony DSC W80 digital camera. It contains the Sony's NP-BG1 recharableable Li-ion battery pack. I am glad it comes with a battery pack that lasts longer than a standard 2xAA but:1. What is the lifetime of such a battery pack? How many reuses can i get out of it? 2. Are such Li-ion batteries or specially this Sony pack decent? Should i purchase a second battery pack and leave it on the shelf for a year when the 1st pack dies?
I wouldn't bother buying a second battery at this stage, because the battery that comes supplied with it will allow up to 340 shots per charge (which is a lot more than what other batteries provide). I'm not sure of how many times a battery can be charged, but it would be quite a large number of times. However, the real downside to this battery, is that it takes a very long 4.5 hours to fully charge it. But, you CAN buy a 1.5 hour, fast charger (which is an extra and expensive cost). Another very clever marketing idea from Sony, of course. If I were you, I would just use the one battery and takes steps to conserve it's life by turning off the LCD screen in-between shots, limit how long you review your images, and also limit your use of the flash. You can also turn off the LCD and use the viewfinder instead to compose your shots. Doing this, will give you lots more battery life. And make sure you give the battery a top up charge as often as possible. You don't have to wait for the battery to fully drain before you re-charge it.
I have that camera and i went to an Astros game took at least 200+ photos didnt charge it for a couple days it still took another hundred or so photos. I love my camera it takes really good photos and the battery lasts for a while. you wont need a second battery.
