OM SYSTEM Olympus BLS-50 Battery (Grey) - Reliable Spare Power

In this review of the OM SYSTEM Olympus BLS-50 Battery (Grey) the bottom line is simple: this is a straightforward replacement battery for photographers who need dependable, OEM-compatible power without fuss. It is best for owners of cameras that use the BLS-5 family who want a spare battery that charges in the standard BCS-5 charger and delivers noticeably longer runtime than older rechargeable cells. The review focuses on compatibility, runtime, and value as a spare or replacement part for travel and extended shoots.

Key Features

• Compatibility with BCS-5 charger: Works with the BCS-5 battery charger so users can reuse existing charging gear without buying an adapter.
• Fits BLS-5 cameras: Compatible with all cameras that use the BLS-5 mounting and electrical standard, making it easy to swap in as a spare.
• Longer battery life: Offers improved runtime compared with older cells of the same class, reducing the need to stop and recharge during long sessions.
• Rechargeable lithium-ion chemistry: The 1210 mAh-class rechargeable design delivers steady power delivery suitable for stills and moderate video use.
• Compact OEM form factor: Supplied as a common spare replacement that matches the original battery shape and contacts for reliable fit and performance.

Who It's For

This battery is aimed at photographers and hobbyists who already own an OM SYSTEM or Olympus camera that specifies the BLS-5/BLS-50 family and who need an extra battery to swap in during travel, day shoots, or events. It is particularly useful for users who already own a BCS-5 charger and want a directly compatible spare without changing their charging routine.

It is less suitable for users who require very high-capacity cells for extended professional video shoots or those who need multi-bay fast-charging solutions; such users should consider higher-capacity or multi-battery charging systems designed for continuous heavy use.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Direct compatibility with the BCS-5 charger avoids the need for extra adapters or cables.
• Works with all cameras that accept BLS-5 batteries, making it a reliable spare for existing gear.
• Rechargeable lithium-ion construction gives consistent power and improved run time versus older batteries.
• Compact and OEM-style form factor ensures secure fit in camera battery bays.

Cons

• Capacity is modest compared with some high-capacity aftermarket options, so heavy video shooters may want larger-capacity alternatives.
• Not bundled with a charger; users without a BCS-5 will need to acquire compatible charging hardware separately.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The OM SYSTEM Olympus BLS-50 is a sensible spare battery for owners of cameras that use the BLS-5 family: it fits existing BCS-5 chargers, delivers steady runtime, and matches OEM form and contacts. For casual and enthusiast photographers who need reliable backup power at a fair value, it is a practical purchase; professionals who demand maximum capacity or fast multi-battery charging should evaluate higher-capacity or multi-bay solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this battery compatible with my BCS-5 charger?
Yes, the BLS-50 is explicitly compatible with the BCS-5 battery charger and will charge normally in that unit.

How does the listed capacity compare to other cells?
The product description lists 1175 mAh and an 8.46 Wh rating while the product is described as a 1210 mAh-class rechargeable lithium-ion battery, so it sits in the expected range for spare OEM-style camera batteries.

Is a charger included with the pack?
No, this listing is for a single battery pack; users without a BCS-5 charger will need to purchase a compatible charger separately.