replacement camera battery - looklike vs original

elsien

HI,
I'm looking for a replacement battery for a panasonic TZ3 camera, and a quick google has thrown up only sites that offer generic rather than panasonic replacements.
These vary quite a lot in price, and I wondered if anyone had any suggestions as to what to look for/ which ones to avoid, or are they all pretty similar anyway?
Thank you.

vyseyboy

My experience is that third parties are variable in quality, but generally as good (sometimes better,) than originals: usually worth checking which company / factory makes the third party ones, and look for reviews. Most of the time, the price is so much less that it's definately worth a punt.

I've only ever bought batteries for mobiles and wireless gaming controllers, but I guess it'll be much the same for cameras.

Dealextreme are usually good:
can you beat this price:

http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.2458

from a repuatable battery manufacturer.

oldagetraveller

Or if you prefer the U.K. and more expensive but reputable brand. http://www.watchbattery.co.uk/shop/Panasonic_Lumix_DMC-TZ3_Digital_Camera_Battery.shtml
I have a generic battery for my Canon camera from them and it so far is just as good as the original Canon battery. I alternate between the two.
Possibly avoid eBay?!

BillScarab

I've got a generic battery in my TZ3 and it works just as well as the original. Not sure of the brand as I'm at work at the moment but I think so long as you buy from a reputable supplier you'll be OK.

EDIT: Just remembered, I got mine from 7dayshop. I got this one it's only £4.99 but there will be postage on top.

GaryS

I use batteries sourced from Ebay in my Canon 10D and they hold a charge better and last longer than the original Canon part.