Hasselblad 500EL Battery Adapter: CR-P2 Swap FAQ
By Fotodiox, Inc. USA | Published: 2026-10-31
Category: Product Reviews
Answers to the most common questions about swapping Hasselblad 500EL-series rechargeable packs for a 6V CR-P2 adapter, from fit and shot count to battery choice.
Quick answer
The Fotodiox battery adapter replaces the expensive Hasselblad rechargeable pack in 500EL, 500ELM, 500ELX, and 553ELX bodies with a standard 6V CR-P2 battery. It is the simplest way to keep a vintage 500-series camera running without hunting for rebuilt or discontinued packs.
Why the CR-P2 route makes sense for vintage 500-series bodies
Original Hasselblad rechargeable packs for the motorized EL bodies are old enough that cells may be tired, and rebuilding them is a specialty job. A CR-P2 is a common photo battery you can buy at most camera shops or online, so a dead pack no longer sidelines the camera for weeks.
The trade-off is that you are giving up rechargeability. If you shoot high volumes every week, the cost and waste of disposable cells add up; for occasional studio or location work, the convenience usually wins.
Where the adapter does not solve the problem
This adapter is specifically for the 500EL family and 553ELX. It is not a fix for mechanical issues in the camera's motor drive, film advance, or battery contacts. If the body will not run even with a fresh CR-P2 seated correctly, the fault is elsewhere and needs a technician.
Also check the battery compartment before ordering: corrosion or a missing contact plate will prevent any battery, adapter or original, from powering the camera reliably.
Hasselblad 500EL battery adapter questions
- Which Hasselblad bodies does the adapter fit?
- The adapter is listed for the 500EL, 500ELM, 500ELX, and 553ELX. It is not listed for other Hasselblad models, so confirm your body nameplate before ordering.
- What battery does it use?
- A single 6V CR-P2. That is the same type sold for many film-era cameras, so it is easier to find locally than a rebuilt Hasselblad pack.
- How many shots should I expect?
- The manufacturer states roughly 200 shots per battery, with two batteries per camera. Treat that as a planning figure, not a guarantee, and carry a spare for long sessions. Buy CR-P2 cells in pairs so you always have one charged spare in the bag.
- Is it cheaper than a Hasselblad rechargeable battery?
- Yes in practice: the adapter costs far less than a rebuilt or replacement Hasselblad pack, and CR-P2 cells are inexpensive and widely available. The trade-off is ongoing disposable battery cost.
- Can I leave the adapter in the camera?
- The adapter is a housing that holds the CR-P2 in the battery compartment. Remove the battery for long storage to avoid leakage, and check contacts before each session.
- What if the camera still will not power on?
- Check that the CR-P2 is seated the right way round and that the compartment contacts are clean. If it still fails, the issue is likely in the body's wiring or motor, not the adapter.
- Is there a warranty?
- The adapter carries a limited 2-year manufacturer warranty. Keep your proof of purchase in case you need to claim.
Product facts
- Fotodiox Battery Adapter for Hasselblad 500EL, 500ELM, 500ELX, 553ELX (allows use of 6v CR-P2 Battery): Fits Hasselblad 500EL, 500ELM, 500ELX, and 553ELX bodies and accepts a 6V CR-P2 battery. One adapter covers the main motorized 500-series models, so you can standardize on a single spare battery type across bodies.
Fotodiox Battery Adapter for Hasselblad 500EL, 500ELM, 500ELX, 553ELX (allows use of 6v CR-P2 Battery) - Fotodiox Battery Adapter for Hasselblad 500EL, 500ELM, 500ELX, 553ELX (allows use of 6v CR-P2 Battery): Roughly 200 shots per battery, with two batteries per camera. Plan on carrying a spare CR-P2 for a full day; a single cell is not a season-long supply.
