OM System BCS-5 OLYMPUS Pen Lithium-Ion Charger - Fast Charge for PEN

Our review of the OM System BCS-5 OLYMPUS Pen Lithium-Ion Charger finds it best suited to PEN camera owners who want a straightforward, reliable way to recharge BLS-5 batteries. In this review the charger earns praise for its simplicity and predictable charge time, delivering a full charge in about 3.5 hours. It is a no-frills accessory that does exactly what it should for photographers who carry spare batteries and prefer a dedicated external charger over in-camera charging.

Key Features

• Compatible Design: Specifically built for PEN series batteries, it ensures a correct fit and safe charging for BLS-5 cells.
• Reliable Charge Time: Charges the BLS-5 in about 3.5 hours, making it easy to plan shoots and have spares ready.
• Brand Compatibility: Branded by OM SYSTEM / Olympus, which matches original equipment expectations for PEN users.
• Compact Form Factor: Small and portable enough to pack with camera kits without taking much space in a bag.
• Simple Operation: No complex settings or menus, so photographers can plug in a battery and leave it to charge securely.

Who It's For

The charger is ideal for amateur and enthusiast photographers who use Olympus PEN cameras and keep one or more BLS-5 batteries in rotation. Its straightforward operation and predictable 3.5 hour charge time make it useful for weekend shooters, travel photographers, and those who prefer having charged spares ready before a session.

It is less suited to users who need ultra-fast charging, multi-bay simultaneous charging, or USB powerbank-style flexibility. Professionals who rely on very rapid turnaround or who require multiple battery bays should consider a multi-slot or faster third-party system instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Direct compatibility with PEN BLS-5 batteries removes fit concerns and supports safe charging.
• Predictable charge cycle of about 3.5 hours lets users plan battery swaps reliably.
• Compact and easy to store with camera gear for travel or field shoots.

Cons

• Only charges one battery at a time, which can slow workflow if many spares are needed.
• No advanced features such as rapid charge modes or multi-bay capacity are included.

Specifications

Product name	BCS-5 OLYMPUS Pen Lithium-Ion Charger
Compatible battery	BLS-5
Typical charge time	About 3.5 hours
Brand	OM SYSTEM / Olympus
Intended cameras	PEN series
Category	Battery Charger

Our Verdict

The OM System BCS-5 is a sensible, no-nonsense charger for PEN owners who value reliability and original-equipment compatibility. It charges BLS-5 cells in about 3.5 hours and is compact enough for travel, making it good value for most hobbyists and enthusiasts who keep spare batteries on hand, though power users needing multi-bay or faster charging may need a different solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this charger work with BLS-5 batteries?
Yes. It is designed specifically to charge BLS-5 lithium-ion batteries for PEN cameras.

How long does a full charge take?
A full charge of a BLS-5 battery takes about 3.5 hours when using this charger.

Is this an OM System or Olympus branded accessory?
It is listed under OM SYSTEM / Olympus, indicating original-equipment compatibility for PEN users.