Nanlite CN-58 2-1 – Dual-Function NP-F Battery Charger and Power Bank Adapter

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is a compact and versatile dual-function battery charger designed for charging Sony NP-series, also known as NP-F type batteries, and using them as an external power source. This practical two-in-one solution combines a battery charger and power bank function, allowing users to charge camera and lighting batteries while also using their stored energy to power other USB devices. Thanks to its compact design, durable housing and simple operation, the charger is an excellent choice for photographers, videographers, content creators and other users who need a reliable and flexible power solution both in the studio and on location.

The product’s full name is Nanlite CN-58 2-1 charger for NP style battery, and its manufacturer part number is CN-58. The charger measures just 100 × 44 × 15 mm, taking up very little space in a camera bag or equipment case. It is designed to charge one compatible NP-F battery at a time and features a battery charging output of 8.4 V / 1 A. A USB-A to Micro-USB cable is included for connecting the charger to a suitable USB power source.

A key feature of Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is the ability to use an NP-F battery as a portable power source. When the battery contains sufficient energy, the charger can be used to power or charge compatible USB devices, such as smartphones and other small electronic devices. This makes the accessory a practical solution for users who already rely on NP-F batteries in their filming equipment and want to expand their functionality.

Two Functions in One Device – Battery Charger and Power Bank

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 combines two important functions, offering greater versatility than a conventional single-purpose battery charger.

The first function is charging Sony NP-F type batteries. A battery inserted into the charger receives power from a connected USB source, such as a computer USB port, a compatible USB power adapter or another suitable power supply.

The second function allows the inserted NP-F battery to be used as an external power source. In this mode, energy flows from the battery through the charger to a connected USB device, making it possible to charge a smartphone, for example.

The dual-function design is especially practical for photographers and videographers who use NP-F batteries to power cameras, monitors or LED lights. When a battery is not being used in filming equipment, its stored energy can also be used for other devices when necessary.

This solution helps make an existing battery collection more versatile and may reduce the need to carry a separate power bank.

Compatibility with Sony NP-F Type Batteries

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is designed for Sony NP-series, also known as NP-F type batteries. This battery format is widely used in photography and videography equipment, particularly portable LED lights, video monitors and various camera accessories.

NP-F batteries are known for their versatile applications and are available in different capacities. Common examples include NP-F550, NP-F750 and NP-F970 type batteries, although compatibility with a specific battery should always be checked according to its shape, contacts and the manufacturer’s technical requirements.

Batteries with different capacities allow users to select the appropriate energy reserve for their needs. Smaller batteries are generally more compact and lightweight, while larger batteries can store more energy.

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is not a universal charger for all camera batteries. It is intended for compatible Sony NP-F or L-series batteries and must not be used with other battery chemistries or batteries with incompatible contact arrangements.

The charger supports charging one battery at a time, making it suitable for individual use or as an additional charging solution alongside existing filming equipment.

USB-Powered Charging – Convenient in the Studio and on the Move

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 allows compatible NP-F batteries to be charged using a USB power source.

The included USB-A to Micro-USB cable can be used to connect the charger to a computer USB port or a suitable USB wall adapter. A wall adapter is not included in the standard package.

USB-powered charging is practical because compatible power sources are widely available in homes, studios and travel environments.

For example, the battery can be charged while working at a computer or by connecting the charger to a suitable USB power adapter when access to mains electricity is available.

This also makes the charger a useful backup accessory when a larger conventional battery charger is not available.

Actual charging time depends on the battery’s capacity, its current charge level and the capabilities of the USB power source. Higher-capacity batteries generally take longer to charge than smaller ones.

It is important to use a suitable power source and check that all connections are in good condition before charging.

Battery Charging Output of 8.4 V / 1 A

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is a single-slot battery charger with a nominal battery charging output of 8.4 V DC and 1 A.

This output is designed for charging compatible Sony NP-F type lithium-ion batteries.

The 8.4 V charging voltage corresponds to the full-charge voltage of a typical two-cell-group lithium-ion battery with a nominal voltage of 7.2–7.4 V.

A charging current of up to 1 A allows compatible batteries to be charged at a controlled rate, although the actual charging process depends on battery characteristics and its current state of charge.

For example, fully charging a higher-capacity NP-F battery may take several hours. The exact charging time cannot be determined from the battery’s nominal capacity alone because the charging current may decrease during the final stage of the charging process.

The technical specifications of the battery charging slot do not mean that the charger’s USB output delivers the same voltage or current to connected devices. The electrical requirements for charging a battery and powering an external device are different.

Power Bank Function for Smartphones and Other Devices

One of the main advantages of Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is the ability to use a compatible NP-F battery as a portable power source.

When a charged NP-F battery is inserted into the charger, its stored energy can be used to power or charge a compatible USB device.

This is particularly practical when a smartphone battery starts running low during a filming day but a charged NP-F battery is available.

The charger allows existing photography and video equipment batteries to serve as an additional energy reserve, which can be useful in studios, on location and while travelling.

Compatible low-power devices can be connected through the USB output. To charge a specific device, users must select an appropriate connection cable and ensure electrical compatibility.

It is important to remember that Nanlite CN-58 2-1 does not contain a built-in battery. The power bank function requires a separate NP-F battery.

The amount of energy available to an external device also depends on the NP-F battery’s capacity, charge level and energy conversion losses.

More Versatile Use of Existing NP-F Batteries

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is especially suitable for users who already have several NP-F type batteries in their filming equipment.

These batteries are frequently used in LED lights and video monitors, meaning professional photographers and videographers may carry multiple batteries of different capacities.

The dual-function charger allows these batteries to be used for more than simply powering their original equipment.

For example, after a filming session, a user can charge a depleted NP-F battery while using another charged battery to power a USB device when needed.

This flexibility is useful in situations where access to mains electricity is limited or there are few available power outlets.

Using existing batteries as an additional power source helps make equipment more practical and can reduce the need for multiple different charging accessories.

Compact Dimensions of 100 × 44 × 15 mm

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is designed for users who value compact and easily transportable filming equipment.

The charger measures just 100 mm in length, 44 mm in width and 15 mm in thickness, making it a small and slim accessory.

These dimensions allow the charger to be conveniently stored in a camera bag, backpack or other equipment compartment.

Its compact construction is particularly useful for travelling photographers and videographers who want to minimize the amount of equipment they carry.

Compared with larger charging solutions, the CN-58 is easy to take along even when intended solely as a backup charger.

However, its small size does not mean unlimited compatibility. The size and shape of the inserted NP-F battery affect the overall dimensions and portability of the complete setup.

Durable Plastic Housing for Everyday Use

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 features a sturdy plastic housing designed to withstand normal photography and videography use and transportation.

The housing protects the charger’s internal components and helps maintain its practicality during frequent use.

This is particularly important on filming locations, where equipment is regularly installed, removed and transported.

The compact design allows the charger to be stored alongside other accessories without requiring much additional space.

The charger is intended for use in suitable dry conditions. It should not be considered waterproof or impact-resistant unless such properties are specifically confirmed by the manufacturer.

To maintain long-term reliability, users should avoid strong impacts, excessive moisture, dust accumulation in the connectors and mechanical pressure.

Convenient Solution for Photographers and Videographers

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is a practical accessory for photographers and videographers who use battery-powered equipment and need flexible charging options.

Professional filming situations may involve several batteries, camera accessories and lighting devices being used simultaneously.

When some of these devices use Sony NP-F type batteries, the CN-58 charger can be used to charge those batteries or redirect their stored energy to compatible USB devices.

For example, a videographer may use NP-F batteries to power an LED light and keep the CN-58 charger in their equipment bag as an additional charging option.

The power bank function is also useful when a smartphone or another small USB device needs extra power.

This helps create a more flexible workflow, particularly during longer filming days.

Suitable for Nanlite LED Lighting Users

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is also a useful accessory for Nanlite LED lighting users whose equipment operates with Sony NP-F type batteries.

NP-F batteries are used in many compact LED panels and portable lighting solutions, where battery power allows operation without a continuous mains connection.

If a light supports NP-F batteries, the CN-58 charger can be used to charge its battery, provided that the battery meets the charger’s compatibility requirements.

This solution is suitable for interviews, product photography, vlogging and smaller studio productions where battery-powered lights provide greater freedom of movement.

The charger does not replace the light’s own power adapter and does not guarantee compatibility with every Nanlite lighting model. Compatibility depends on the specific battery and its technical characteristics.

Practical for Travel and Outdoor Shoots

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is well suited to situations where charging options may be limited.

During travel, hiking and outdoor filming, it may not always be possible to use a conventional battery charger or mains electricity.

The compact CN-58 allows an NP-F battery to be charged through a suitable USB power source and a charged battery to be used later to power a compatible USB device.

For example, a travelling content creator may use the same battery collection both for a portable LED light and for charging a smartphone.

This versatility is especially useful when users want to reduce the number of different chargers and cables they carry.

When used outdoors, the charger must be protected from moisture, precipitation and extreme temperatures.

Single Battery Slot and Simple Operation

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 features one battery slot, meaning that one compatible NP-F battery can be charged at a time.

The single-slot design keeps the device compact and is suitable for users who do not need to charge multiple batteries simultaneously.

When inserting a battery, make sure it is correctly aligned and properly connected to the contacts.

The charger can then be connected to a suitable USB power source.

The charger features a status indicator light that helps users monitor its operating status. The exact meanings of the indicator should be checked in the device’s user manual.

To use the power bank function, a compatible NP-F battery with sufficient charge must be inserted.

The straightforward operating principle makes the accessory suitable for both beginners and experienced photography and videography equipment users.

Included USB Cable

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 comes with a USB-A to Micro-USB cable that allows the charger to be connected to a suitable power source.

The cable can be used to connect the charger to a computer USB port or a separate USB wall adapter.

The included cable reduces the need to purchase a separate charging cable and makes initial setup easier.

The manufacturer describes the solution as compact and practical and highlights convenient cable storage.

It is important to note that a USB wall adapter is not included in the standard package. An NP-F battery is also not included unless the product is sold as a separately identified battery bundle.

Charging other devices may require an additional connection cable compatible with the USB port of the specific device.

What Does a Dual-Function NP-F Battery Charger Mean?

With Nanlite CN-58 2-1, dual-function operation means that the device can direct energy for two different purposes.

In normal charging mode, a compatible NP-F battery receives energy from an external USB power source.

In power bank mode, the energy stored in the inserted NP-F battery is used to power or charge a compatible external device.

This differs from a conventional battery charger, whose primary function is simply charging batteries.

However, the CN-58 is not a standalone power bank with a built-in battery. A separate charged NP-F battery is required to use it as an external power source.

It is also not a dual-slot battery charger. The two-in-one designation refers to its two functions, not the simultaneous charging of two batteries.

This distinction helps users choose a charging solution that meets their needs.

Battery Charging and Usage Safety

When using Nanlite CN-58 2-1, users should follow the safety instructions provided by both the charger and battery manufacturers.

Only compatible NP-F type batteries with suitable contacts and electrical characteristics should be inserted into the charger.

Damaged, swollen or unusually hot batteries must not be charged or used.

Charging should take place in a dry, well-ventilated environment, away from direct heat sources and flammable materials.

Before inserting a battery, check that the contacts on both the charger and battery are clean and undamaged.

Avoid forcing connections and use only suitable cables and power sources.

If the charger or battery becomes unusually hot, produces an unusual smell or behaves unexpectedly, stop using it.

Correct use helps maintain the reliability of both the charger and batteries.

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 – Compact and Versatile Power Solution

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is a practical dual-function charger that allows Sony NP-F type batteries to be charged and their stored energy to be used for powering compatible USB devices.

The charger, with manufacturer part number CN-58, measures 100 × 44 × 15 mm and features a single battery slot with a charging output of 8.4 V / 1 A. Its compact design and sturdy plastic housing make it convenient for use in studios, while travelling and on filming locations.

USB-powered charging allows users to connect the charger to a suitable computer USB port or separate wall adapter, while the power bank function makes it possible to use an NP-F battery as an additional energy source.

The included USB-A to Micro-USB cable simplifies connectivity, and the single-slot design makes the device straightforward to operate.

Nanlite CN-58 2-1 is an excellent choice for photographers, videographers and content creators who use Sony NP-F type batteries and want to combine battery charging and USB device powering in one compact accessory.