SMALLRIG V Mount Battery VB50 Green - Compact 45W PD Powerpack

In this review of the SMALLRIG V Mount Battery VB50 Green, the bottom line is simple: this is a compact, versatile power pack for creators who need a slim V-mount solution that also charges quickly. The VB50 is aimed at shooters who want a light, pocketable battery for cameras, monitors, phones and on-the-go workflows, and its single biggest selling point is the bi-directional USB-C PD 45W support that both powers gear and refuels the battery fast. The review examines usability, ports, real-world runtime and where this battery fits in a field kit.

Key Features

• 45W bi-directional PD: USB-C PD 3.0 delivers up to 45W for fast device charging and accepts 45W or higher input to recharge the battery in about 1.5 hours.
• Multiple output ports: A mix of USB-C, USB-A, DC 8V, DC 12V, BP and D-TAP covers cameras, monitors and phones without adapters.
• Compact form factor: At roughly 4.21 ' x 2.87 ' x 1.33 ' and 11.64 oz, it is slim enough for pocketing and travel while adding only modest weight to a kit.
• OLED real-time monitoring: The bright OLED shows port status, voltage, power output and remaining capacity, with simple single and double click controls for quick checks.
• Secure mounting options: The V-mount backplate includes 1/4'-20 and 3/8'-16 threaded holes so it can be secured with a ball head or clamp for on-rig use.

Who It's For

The VB50 is best suited for wedding and run-and-gun videographers, vloggers and photographers who need a lightweight V-mount battery to power cameras, SmallHD or Ninja-style monitors and mobile devices while keeping kit size small. Its airline-friendly 50Wh capacity and slim profile make it convenient for travel and short shoots where full-size V-mount bricks are overkill.

Those who need very long continuous runtime, repeated full-day shoots without recharging, or professional multi-camera solutions should look at higher-capacity V-mount options. Also, if you require a specific proprietary battery plate for a single camera brand, confirm compatibility before replacing camera-mounted power solutions.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design that still offers a wide range of ports for cameras and mobile devices.
• Fast 45W PD in/out that supports quick recharging and can top up phones rapidly.
• Clear OLED screen and simple controls make monitoring and disabling ports effortless.
• Built-in safety with a BMS and multiple certifications provides peace of mind for camera gear.

Cons

• 50Wh capacity means limited runtime compared with larger V-mount batteries, so it may not cover long multi-hour shoots without recharging.
• Customer reports are mixed on long-term durability and charge retention for some units, so expect variability in lifespan.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The SMALLRIG VB50 is an excellent compact V-mount battery for creators who prioritize portability, fast PD charging and multiple output options. It represents good value for travel shooters and users who need reliable, monitored power for cameras and mobile devices, though those requiring extended run times should consider larger capacity models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the VB50 charge and power devices at the same time?
Yes. The battery supports bi-directional PD so it can output power while being recharged, depending on connected devices and charger capability.

How long does it take to fully recharge?
With a 45W or higher PD GaN charger the VB50 reaches a full charge in about 1.5 hours.

Is it safe to use on cameras and phones?
Yes. The battery includes an intelligent BMS and multiple certifications to protect against short circuit, over-temperature, over-voltage, over-current, over-charge and over-discharge.