DaveyDitzer Loc: Western PA

I have three cameras which use this battery. Other than the ones that came with the cameras, I have found that replacement batteries - all Nikon Branded - come with varying degrees of capacity. Some of these hold hardly any charge, others go somewhat longer. My question is when buying a new battery, how do you test it before deciding if it's keeper or one to return?

mas24 Loc: Southern CA

That's never been a concern to me. As I have a spare Watson battery to back up my Nikon Brand batteries. Just because the name Nikon is stamped on the battery, doesn't mean it was made by Nikon. Nikon probably contracts with a battery maker of their choice. Aftermarket batteries such as Watson or Wasabi batteries, are a smidgen behind the quality of the Brand name batteries. IMO. And generally won't take as many full charges, before they die. All batteries are not created equal. Remember, there are counterfeit Nikon batteries too. Not affiliated with Nikon. I'm awaiting answers as to how you test a lemon battery? I just checked. According to Nikon's counterfeit battery list as of late 2016. The Nikon EN-EL14a is not on the counterfeit list.

sloscheider Loc: Minnesota

I haven't had any problems with short battery life with any of the Nikon batteries I have. Granted they're en-el15 models but I've got about 7 of them.

Bobby123

I bought 3 Watson batteries last summer for my D850. I took a driving trip across the country to attend a workshop that was the first opportunity to use the Watsons. Not one of them took a charge. They are now all in a bag for recycling. Never been used. Nikons cost more but I'll stick with them.

billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont

Interesting, I must have owned 40 branded Nikon batteries over my digital history, they ALL held about the same charge.
If I were you I would call Nikon and ask them why your Nikon branded batteries are not all about the same.
Here is the number, you can call them tomorrow, 1-800-645-6687.
Ask for tech support. If they are not all holding similar charge I would insist you ask them to have them all sent to them for testing.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

I've never had the need to test or return a battery, but if one seems to be defective, return it as soon as you can.

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

At least in the cameras that I own, and the batteries that I use, all Nikon, I get an analysis of battery condition at any time desired. Once I check out a new battery on that, I cease to worry. Best of luck.