PowerShot G7 X Mark III - getting battery error messages on startup.

[frizzo]

I've been using the camera with no issues with a 3rd party battery for a bit.  However, recently, it won't let me even get into the camera.  

Upon turning on, I am getting this

Battery communication error.
Does this battery/
do these batteries
display the Canon logo?

[No] [Yes]

So I click No, and it takes to this screen.

Canon does not guarantee the
performance or safety of
this battery/these batteries.
Continue use?

[No] [Yes]

Ok, fair enough, and I click Yes.  But then it just retracts the lens and turns off. 

Am I not able to use this camera with 3rd party batteries?

P.S. For reference I am using BM Premium NB-13L battery.  

[shadowsports]

Greetings,

Batteries are not created equally. Some less expensive knockoffs are not manufactured and do not perform to the same standards as OEM batteries made by Canon.  They may be manufactured using inferior materials or parts and some don't have built-in safety mechanisms.  Others might also not be the same capacity.   

One important feature is decoding.  This is the battery's ability to correctly identify itself to the camera and provide correct status when installed and in use.

You can absolutely use 3rd party batteries with your camera, but I'd be cautious of the brand and type.  Some are unsafe and basically junk.  It sounds like the one you have isn't properly decoded.  To receive the best experience, I'd stick with Canon brand batteries.  Or at least ones that are verified to meet the camera's communication and power requirements.  

[frizzo]

Rick, 

So then the message has nothing to do with non-Canon batteries.  But all to do with the fact that the battery may have gone bad and can't identify itself properly to the camera?

You also mentioned that 3rd party batteries are fine as long as it's from a solid brand.  Can you recommend some?

[shadowsports · Accepted solution]

I use Canon and Watson brand batteries.  They've treated me very well.  I'm sure there are others also.