Canon LP-E6 to LP-E6P: Battery Evolution Decoded (With 2025 Updates)

Canon has steadily evolved its battery technology to match the ever-growing power needs of modern cameras. From the original LP-E6 to LP-E6N, then the robust LP-E6NH, and now the advanced LP-E6P, Canon users have experienced significant improvements in battery performance, communication, and charging features.

With new cameras like the Canon EOS R6 Mark II, R5 Mark II, and upcoming models like the R6 Mark III, it’s crucial to understand this battery evolution to ensure compatibility and peak performance.

⚙️ Timeline: Canon LP-E6 Series Battery Evolution

🔋 Detailed Breakdown of Canon LP-E6 Family

1. LP-E6 (2008)

• Introduced with Canon 5D Mark II

• Basic smart communication

• Compatible with early DSLRs

• 1800mAh capacity

2. LP-E6N (2014)

• Slightly higher capacity (1865mAh)

• Enhanced internal circuitry

• Officially supported by more advanced DSLRs and mirrorless models

3. LP-E6NH (2020)

• 2130mAh capacity

• Launched with Canon EOS R5 and R6

• Supports USB Power Delivery (PD) in select cameras

• Backward compatible with most LP-E6/N supported cameras

• Most commonly used battery for high-resolution mirrorless systems

4. LP-E6P (2024)

• Distinct from LP-E6NH, though similar in shape and capacity

• Features updated chip design for advanced communication

• Optimized for Canon’s next-gen cameras like R5 Mark II

• Likely required for future models to enable all features, especially video and USB-C workflows

• Not compatible with older bodies that support only LP-E6/LP-E6N

✅ Compatibility Chart (Updated for 2024)

⚠️ LP-E6P may not be backward compatible with older cameras. Some models may power on, but not support full features like USB-C PD or fast burst rates.
✅* LP-E6P is expected to become standard for all upcoming Canon R series bodies.

🔋 LP-E6P vs LP-E6NH: What’s the Difference?

While both batteries look nearly identical, the LP-E6P includes an updated internal communication chip that works better with Canon’s latest firmware and mirrorless systems—particularly when it comes to high frame rate video, long-recording sessions, and advanced power protocols.

⚠️ Important Note for Professionals

If you use older LP-E6 or LP-E6N batteries with newer cameras, you might face:

• Shorter battery life

• No in-camera charging

• Slower frame bursts or video limitations

• Warning prompts on-screen

🔮 Future Outlook: EOS R6 Mark III and Beyond

With the Canon R5 Mark II already adopting LP-E6P as the default recommended battery, and the R6 Mark III expected to launch in late 2025, it is highly likely that LP-E6P will become the baseline across Canon’s next-generation full-frame cameras.

Canon is preparing for:

• Longer 8K/6K internal recording

• Enhanced EVF refresh rates

• Faster autofocus systems

• Live USB-C power pass-through

… all of which require smarter, more efficient battery systems, like the LP-E6P.

🧠 Pro Tip

If you’re investing in future-ready gear, start upgrading your battery ecosystem now:

• Keep LP-E6NH for current R system use

• Add LP-E6P if you plan to use R5 Mark II, R6 Mark III, or newer models

Avoid relying on outdated LP-E6 batteries if you’re working in demanding professional scenarios.