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V-mount batteries have become a popular power source for everything from cameras to lights.
One major reason for this, I think, is that they’re usually an affordable alternative to Anton Bauer Gold Mounts.
In fact, they’ve become so popular that Anton Bauer has begun producing V-mounts batteries themselves even though they’re a competitor to their signature Gold Mounts.
So let’s dive in and have a look at some of the best budget-friendly V-mount batteries on the market today.
1. IDX Endura Cue 143Wh Lithium-Ion V-Mount Battery with D-Tap with VL-DT1 travel charger
IDX is a highly recommended brand for V-mount batteries, and as you will see, there are a few high-quality battery options from IDX you will find on this list.
The IDX DUO-C150 is a solid lithium-ion battery with a capacity for up to 143Wh of power, outputting 14.8V (max 16.8V DC) and up to 14A loads.
The reason these IDX batteries are so well regarded might have something to do with being co-manufactured with Sanyo, a very highly regarded Lithium-ion cell supplier, and having been designed to pass the tough Japanese PSE electrical safety regulations.
The battery has 5 LED indicators to showcase the battery’s power level.
The IDX DUO-C150 comes with a regular D-tap, as included in its title, that can take an additional 80W load. It also has an 80 W D-Tap Advanced Output for quick charge/discharge. It even has a 5V USB port.
Cost-wise, this is one of the most affordable V-mount batteries on this list as of this article’s publishing.
I found this great deal on Adorama, which includes two of these batteries and a charger for a very affordable price.
2. IDX 2 Pack DUO-C98 96Wh High Load V-Mount Li-Ion Battery with IDX VL-2x 2-Channel Charger Kit
Another budget-friendly V-mount battery option from IDX is the IDX DUO-C98.
It features one D-Tap Advanced charge/discharge port, one regular D-Tap port, and one USB power port, which makes it a perfect companion for gimbal use.
The two batteries have a max capacity of 96Wh, which puts in IATA friendly territory (less than 100Wh) for flight.
Size and weight-wise, this battery light at only 1.37 pounds, and measures 3.82 x 5.75 x 1.53″ (9.70 x 14.61 x 3.89cm).
This battery has the same LED power indicator as the Endura Cue.
This bundle consists of two batteries and the great IDX VL-2X dual charger.
Take a look at the current price on Adorama.
3. IDX IMICRO-150 Compact 145Wh Lithium-Ion Battery with Two D-Tap Outputs
The IDX IMicro V-mount battery is another quality option on this list.
Smaller but powerful (it’s the smallest battery pack in the world at this capacity), this battery fit lighter or tighter rigs better while still bringing the same design and quality elements you can expect from an IDX battery.
It also meets passenger aircraft travel regulations at the same time.
This battery still has a voltage capacity of 14.8V (max 16.8V) and 14A and can power additional accessories up to a 100W load via the two D-Tap (one D-Tap Advanced).
It also has LED power-gauge displays as the other IDX options on this list.
It’s fully compatible with the VL-DT1 (1ch D-Tap Advanced Charger).
Which of the three IDX options that’s best for you will depend on your power and budgetary needs, so check out the current price on Adorama here.
Conclusion
So that’s it. I’ve found the IDX V-mount batteries a great option, and I know for a fact that Jan Sørup also loves the IDX brand because of the reliability and low price.
If you know of other reliable and budget-friendly V-mount batteries, please let me know in the comment section below. That way I can add it to the list in the future.
Grant Harvey is a freelance writer, screenwriter, and filmmaker based out of Los Angeles. When he’s not working on his own feature-length screenplays and television pilots, Grant uses his passion and experience in film and videography to help others learn the tools, strategies, and equipment needed to create high-quality videos as a filmmaker of any skill level.