Photography Essentials: High-Power Power Banks for Camera and Drone Batteries — A Review

For photography enthusiasts and drone pilots, staying powered up on location is an absolute must. Whether shooting in remote outdoor environments or working fast on the go, having a reliable power source for your camera batteries and drone packs can make or break a shoot. This review explores several high-power power banks designed specifically for charging camera and drone batteries, highlighting their capacities, charging speeds, portability, and real-world usability.

Why High-Power Power Banks Matter for Photographers and Drone Users

Unlike typical USB power banks made for smartphones, camera and drone batteries demand higher voltages, larger capacities, and greater power outputs. Carrying multiple pre-charged batteries is common but can be cumbersome and limiting. A high-wattage power bank that supports USB Power Delivery (PD) or dedicated charging ports offers a flexible solution, enabling quick recharges and minimizing downtime during shoots or flights.1

Top Power Banks Tested

1. INIU Cougar P63-E1 (25,000mAh, 100W)
   The INIU Cougar P63-E1 stood out for its large 25,000mAh capacity and true 100W USB-C PD output. In tests, it recharged DJI Mini 4 Pro drone batteries within 44 minutes, comparable to a dedicated 100W wall charger’s 41 minutes. It supports pass-through charging, allowing simultaneous device and power bank recharging, enhancing workflow efficiency.2
2. AOHi Starship 240W (27,600mAh)
   BOasting dual 140W bidirectional USB-C ports and a real 99.36Wh capacity, the AOHi Starship is ideal for serious photographers and drone pilots needing robust field charging. Its compact design pairs well with professional gear setups, though it carries more weight than smaller models. The clear LED display and airline compliance make it a reliable carry-on power source.3
3. Lano 2-in-1 Camera Battery Charger with Power Bank (12,400mAh)
   Tailored for camera batteries such as Sony NP-FZ100, Canon, and Nikon types, the Lano 2-in-1 integrates a battery charger and power bank. It charges two batteries simultaneously and keeps them secure during charge cycles, suitable for dedicated camera users who wish to reduce gear complexity on location.4
4. DJI Power 500 Portable Power Station (512Wh)
   Offering a massive 512Wh capacity and dual 100W USB-C ports, DJI Power 500 caters to drone pilots needing to fast-charge multiple drone batteries quickly. It recharges fully in just 70 minutes and supports quiet operation, solar charging, and long durability with up to 4000 charge cycles.5

Considerations When Choosing a Power Bank for Photography and Drones

• Capacity: Choose power banks with at least twice the capacity of your camera or drone batteries to ensure multiple charges on longer shoots.
• Voltage & Output: Verify compatibility with your battery voltages; USB-C PD ports with 60-100W output are beneficial for speed.
• Port Variety: Multiple port types (USB-C, USB-A, DC) allow charging various devices simultaneously.
• Portability vs Capacity: Higher capacity often means heavier units; balance weight against charging needs.1

Testing and Battery Capacity Insights

Battery capacity ratings in mAh versus Wh can be confusing. Wh is a more accurate capacity metric, especially when comparing power banks and camera batteries. Real-world discharge tests reveal that some power banks deliver less than their stated capacities due to losses, so choosing trustworthy brands with verified specs matters.67

Conclusion

For photographers and drone enthusiasts, a dedicated high-power power bank is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Among available options, the INIU Cougar P63-E1 and AOHi Starship excel in balancing capacity, power output, and portability. For users focused on camera battery charging, Lano’s 2-in-1 charger offers specialized convenience. Larger portable power stations like DJI’s Power 500 suit heavy-duty use with multiple batteries. Choosing the right power bank depends on individual shooting style, gear, and mobility demands, but investing in one brings peace of mind and extended creative freedom.