I know that Japan has limited the amount of energy that can be in a lithium battery making the D800 battery not among the absolute best options. With the optional battery pack, I believe different type batteries can be used. What do you guys think is the best battery that can be used with the D800? I don't have any experience with the batteries beyond the EN-EL3e that I use in my D200.

Thanks!

Shoot nature with respect and don't trample it or startle its inhabitants.

why do you say "different" kinds of batteries can be used in the Grip ?

The grip can use a EN-EL15 or EN-EL18 from my understanding. I am guessing the EN-EL18 is a better battery.

Shoot nature with respect and don't trample it or startle its inhabitants.

Hi Mark,

The EN-EL18 has significantly more power than the EN-EL15 and will provide significantly more images per charge. Just like the EN-EL4(a) batteries provide significantly more power and images per charge than an EN-EL3e.
Good Luck and Enjoy your Nikons!

Best Regards,
Marty

If you are thinking about getting a power grip MB-D12 it can take an EN-EL15, 8 AA cells, and an EN-EL18. you will need adapters for the AA cell and for the EN-EL18, about $75 each.
If you buy the EN-EL18, you need to buy a charger, unless you have a D4. As for AA cells I would recommend precharged batteries because they hold up their charge for a couple of years, instead of the regular NiMH batteries, which discharge in about a couple of months. The specs of the D800/E claims that with the MB-D12 you can get 6 fps with AA batteries or the EN-EL18.