Fast answer: Buy genuine Sony NP‑FZ100 batteries first. Then choose a charger based on how many batteries you rotate. For non‑OEM, keep it to a couple options only, and test them at home before a paid shoot.
Part of: Sony A7 IV Guide
Do this first (simple power plan)
- 2 batteries = casual day (one in camera, one spare)
- 3 batteries = interviews / events / long video day
- If you’re running an external recorder, plan an extra battery. Recorder setup guide
Enthusiast picks (simple + safe)
- Single charger (simple): Sony BC‑QZ1 — » Check Price on Amazon «
- Non‑OEM battery (allowed option #1): SmallRig NP‑FZ100 USB‑C Battery — » Check Price on Amazon «
- Non‑OEM charger (allowed option #2): Nitecore USN4 Pro — » Check Price on Amazon «
Pro picks (low-risk power plan)
- 2x Sony NP‑FZ100 (one in camera, one ready) — Amazon
- 3x Sony NP‑FZ100 (events/interviews) — Amazon
- Dual charger: Sony BC‑ZD1 — » Check Price on Amazon «
Quick decision table
| What you’re doing | Battery count | Charger | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photo + short clips | 2× NP‑FZ100 | BC‑QZ1 (single) | Simple, reliable, no drama. |
| Interviews / YouTube day | 3× NP‑FZ100 | BC‑ZD1 (dual) or USN4 Pro | You stay ahead of charging. |
| External recorder | 3× NP‑FZ100 (minimum) | Dual charger recommended | Recorder days burn through power faster. See: recorder setup. |
Manual-backed facts that matter
Sony lists movie battery life as:
- “Battery life for actual movie shooting … Screen mode: Approx. 110 min. Viewfinder mode: Approx. 100 min.”
(Sony A7 IV Help Guide PDF, “Battery life and number of recordable images”, p. 531)
What to check (non‑OEM safety rules)
- If it runs hot, swells, or fits loose, stop using it.
- Do a full test at home: charge → record video → charge again.
- For paid work, carry at least one genuine spare even if you use a third-party.
Setup steps
- Charge batteries the night before.
- Label your batteries (1, 2, 3) so you rotate them.
- If you shoot long video days, bring a dual charger.
