Thanks for visiting FilmmakingElements.com! Everything you need to know about V-mount batteries will be covered in this article. V-mount batteries can do much more than just power your camera, despite the fact that this is how most people tend to view them.
However, we recognize that V-mount batteries can be intricate and expensive, so we’ll be sharing some reasonably priced choices with you. We’ll also go over how many devices you can charge simultaneously and what you can do with them. After reading this piece, you won’t be afraid of V-mount batteries any longer and will be able to utilize all of their benefits.
So let’s jump right in and commence with a few things you should be aware of regarding V-mount batteries in general.
What is even a V-Mount battery?
The V-shaped connector on the battery, which enables it to connect to other devices, is where the term “V-mount” originates. The simplicity of use and speed of removal of this kind of battery is one of its advantages. You only need a battery charger to get started.
V-mount batteries do not have the same level of security as gold-mount batteries, though, which is one drawback. Despite this, V-mount batteries are still widely used to power a variety of devices, including lights on movie sets. Therefore, we’ll be concentrating on V-mount batteries in this piece and covering everything you need to know about them.
These batteries’ voltage, which is 14.8 volts instead of the usual 7-8 volts needed by most cameras, is higher.
However, this higher voltage is actually an advantage because it can be converted into various connections to power a wide range of devices. In other words, the higher voltage means that V-mount batteries can provide enough power to run multiple devices simultaneously. This feature makes V-mount batteries a highly versatile option for filmmakers and videographers.
What to consider when buying a V-mount battery
If you’re in the market for V-mount batteries, there are two crucial factors to consider when choosing between different brands and models: watt-hours or “WH” (capacity) and max current draw or “A” (measured in amps).
- Watt-hours refers to the amount of energy a battery can store
- Max current draw represents the maximum amount of power that can be drawn from the battery at any given time.
These two numbers are usually listed next to the product when looking through V-mount battery specifications. It’s crucial to pay attention to these numbers to make sure the battery you select can supply enough power for your particular filming setup.
How does watt hour relate to your decision of buying a V-Mount Battery
Watt-hours, a measurement of how much energy a battery can hold, are an important aspect to take into account when selecting a battery for your filming equipment. The battery’s capacity in watt-hours determines how long it can power your devices. For example, a 190-watt-hour battery can power 190 watts of equipment for one hour.
When choosing a battery for your requirements, keep in mind that higher watt-hour batteries may also be larger in size.
If most of your projects are run-and-gun, you must make your decisions appropriately.
Understanding your battery’s watt-hour rating will help you determine how long it will last and help you choose the best battery for your shooting requirements.
How does amp relate to your decision of buying a V-Mount Battery
The second thing to think about is the highest current draw, which is expressed in amps. It’s critical to confirm that your battery can supply enough current to power everything since various devices and fittings have different electrical current requirements. For instance, the electric current draw will be greater than just powering the camera if you’re simultaneously using a camera, video recorder, wireless transmitter, and other devices.
It’s critical to review all of your devices’ specs and current requirements in order to select the appropriate battery. For instance, if you’re using an Aputure 120D light, you’ll need a battery that can provide at least nine amps of current. When purchasing batteries, give close attention to the specifications as each battery has its own current capacities and limits.
3 Best Cost-Effective & Safe V-Mount Batteries
V-mount batteries were once thought of as a costly purchase for videographers and filmmakers. But as the market has developed, there are now some excellent, cost-effective choices available.
Demand for affordable yet dependable power solutions has grown with the growth of independent content creators. Thankfully, a lot of businesses have reacted by providing V-mount batteries at a significantly lower price without compromising performance or safety.
Despite the lower price, it’s essential to make sure you’re purchasing a battery from a reputable manufacturer that meets industry safety standards. There are plenty of knock-off batteries available in the market that can be dangerous to use and can even damage your equipment. Always check the reviews and specifications before making a purchase.
Keeping that in mind, we made a list of the top three V-mount budget-friendly batteries which we have rigorously tested.
Moman Power 99
If you’re in the market for a V-mount battery, the Moman Power 99 is definitely worth considering. With a capacity of 99-watt hours, it falls just under the 100-watt-hour limit that airlines typically allow for travel. This makes it a convenient choice for filmmakers who need to take their equipment on the go. You can easily pack a couple of these batteries in your carry-on without having to worry about them being confiscated by airport security.
One of the standout features of the Moman Power 99 is that it comes with two D-Tap ports. These ports can be used to deliver power to other devices, such as lights or monitors, and can also be used to charge the battery itself. If you don’t have a dedicated V-mount charger, you can purchase a separate D-Tap charger for around $15.
Additionally, it also has two USB ports at the top, under a little cover made of rubber, that can be used for more purposes.
The battery has a simple five-bar indicator to show its charge status.
What sets this battery apart from others is its impressive 15-amp draw, which means it can power 200-watt lights at 100% power. However, the runtime of the battery will depend on the power consumption of the device it is powering. For example, a 200-watt light will last for less than 30 minutes. Nevertheless, if you are not using your lights at full power, this battery can last for a fairly long time.
Moman Power 99 V-mount batteries have a voltage range of 14.4 to 14.8 volts, which is the standard for most devices. However, there are some V-mount batteries that are designed for big, heavy-duty lights and can have a voltage of 26 volts.
So it’s crucial to ensure that you’re using the right voltage range for your specific device to avoid any damage or malfunction.To determine the electric current draw of your device, you can use a simple equation by dividing the wattage by the voltage. This will help you to choose the appropriate battery that can provide the required amount of electric current to power your device.
SmallRig VB99
SmallRig’s VB99 is a compact mini V-mount battery that is both lightweight and sleek. While it may not be the cheapest option available, it is a great choice for those who value portability and aesthetics. SmallRig also offers two other variants of this V-mount battery, a 50-watt hour and a 155-watt hour option, each priced about $100 apart from the other. The VB99 comes with no charging cables included, so users will need to purchase their own USB-C cable or D-Tap charging cable.
However, this is a small price to pay for the convenience and longevity provided by the battery’s 99-watt-hour capacity. During an outdoor commercial shoot, we used the VB99 to power an FX9 camera, an Atomos Ninja V, and a TILTA, lasting for a solid two hours.
The SmallRig VB99 V-mount battery is not just compact and sleek but also highly versatile, thanks to its numerous ports. It has a D-tap, USB-A, USB-C, 8-volt out, and 12-volt DC out ports. This means that you can use it to power a variety of devices. Charging the battery is also easy and flexible as you can do it through USB-C or D-Tap port.
One of the standout features of this battery is the OLED screen that provides an accurate readout of the battery’s power. Additionally, it displays the voltage out on each port as well as the remaining battery life when using any of the DC out ports.
A 99 watt hour battery like the VB99 is a great choice because it meets the requirements of most domestic US flights. However, with airline permission, you can bring batteries up to 160 watt hours. The VB99 is a compact size and is airline friendly, making it a convenient option for traveling filmmakers.
At $279, the VB99 is a bit pricier than some of the cheaper no-name brands, but it’s still in the middle range of V-mount batteries. The ZGCINE 99-watt-hour battery is a cheaper alternative that offers the same type of ports as the VB99, but costs $100 less.
ZGCINE ZG-V50
The ZGCINE ZG-V50 is a V-mount battery that is different from the Moman Power 99 in terms of build and weight. It is more lightweight, which can be a plus, but it feels less sturdy compared to the Moman Power 99. However, the ZG-V50 has some notable features. For instance, it has a small, handy screen that displays the battery percentage remaining. The battery also has a surprising output of 10 amps.
Although the battery percentage reading on the screen may not be entirely accurate when it is attached to a high-powered light, it is still useful for charging. The only issue is that the screen does not turn off when plugged into a light, and there is no way to turn it off manually, which might be bothersome to some users.
One of the standout features of this battery is the inclusion of a USB-C port, which allows you to charge the battery without the need for an additional D-tap cable. This is a major convenience for filmmakers who are always on the go and need to keep their equipment charged and ready to go at all times.
In addition to the USB-C port, the battery also comes with a USB port, a D-tap, and a DC out, making it an incredibly versatile and adaptable power solution for a wide range of devices.
While ZGCINE also sells a 99-watt battery, the ZG-V50 can serve many purposes, especially if you’re using small lights or need a few hours of runtime for a Godox UL60 light on set. Plus, with its USB-C port, you can power multiple devices without the need for extra cables. Overall, the ZG-V50 is a versatile and reliable option for powering your gear on the go.
So, I guess that’s it, that’s our list of the best and most affordable V-mount batteries that are safe and will last you a long.
