In the world of film, photography, and content creation, lighting is everything. You can have the best camera, a perfect lens, and a beautiful subject—but without good lighting, your visuals will fall flat. For professionals and creators on the move, finding reliable power sources for lighting equipment is a constant challenge. This is where the V mount battery for lights come in, offering the perfect balance of portability, power, and reliability. Whether you’re shooting in the studio or on a remote location, these batteries are lifesavers.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about V mount batteries and how they can revolutionize your lighting setup.
What is a V Mount Battery for Lights?
A V mount battery for lights—also known as a V-lock battery—is a professional power solution widely used in video and film production. It gets its name from the V-shaped mount that locks into compatible battery plates.
Originally designed for video cameras, V mount batteries are now widely used for lighting due to their high capacity (typically 95Wh to 200Wh+) and stable power output. They often include D-Tap, USB, and regulated 12V or 15V ports to support various lighting setups.
For high-draw LED lights, V mount batteries provide reliable, portable power without the need for wall outlets or extension cords. Many models are hot-swappable, so you can change batteries without cutting power—ideal for continuous shooting.
Why Use a V Mount Battery for LED Lights?
LED lights have taken over the photography and videography industry due to their energy efficiency, long life, and powerful output. However, their main drawback is the need for a steady and strong power source. This is where a V mount battery for lights shine.
Here are a few compelling reasons to use V mount batteries with LED lights:
- Portability: V mount batteries free your setup from the constraints of wall power. You can shoot anywhere—on a mountaintop, in a forest, or in the middle of a city street.
- Efficiency: With high-capacity options, one fully charged battery can power your light for hours, depending on its wattage and intensity settings.
- Compatibility: Most LED lights, especially high-end models like the Godox VL150 and Aputure 120D, are built with V mount compatibility in mind. Some lights even have built-in V mount plates.
- Flexibility: With D-Tap outputs, you can use one battery to power multiple devices, streamlining your setup and reducing the amount of gear you need to carry.
All these benefits combine to make V mount batteries an indispensable tool for any lighting setup, particularly for on-location shoots where power sources are limited or unpredictable.
How to Choose the Right V Mount Battery for Lights
Not all V mount batteries are created equal. To get the most out of your lights, it’s crucial to choose the right battery for your specific setup. Here’s what you need to look for:
- Watt-hour (Wh) Rating: This determines how long the battery will last. For example, a 150Wh battery can theoretically power a 150W light for one hour.
- Output Voltage: Check the voltage requirements of your light. Most LED lights operate within 12V–16.8V, which is compatible with standard V mount batteries.
- Continuous Discharge Rate: Lights like the Godox VL150 may require a discharge rate of up to 10A. Always make sure your battery can handle the demand.
- Port Availability: If you need to power other gear alongside your light—like a monitor or wireless receiver—look for batteries with multiple D-Tap or USB outputs.
- Display screen: A V-mount battery with display lets you see battery level, voltage, and power use at a glance, helping you avoid unexpected shutdowns.
- Build Quality: Choose trusted brands like Moman. Durability matters, especially in demanding shooting environments.
A battery that’s underpowered or incompatible can lead to overheating, shutdowns, or even damage to your lights. So, do your homework and invest wisely.
V Mount Battery for Godox VL150
The Godox VL150 is a beast of an LED light, offering 150W of bright, daylight-balanced output. However, such power doesn’t come without a cost—it requires a robust power source. Thankfully, Godox designed it with V mount compatibility in mind.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Power Requirements: The VL150 needs a 16.8V input with at least 150W power capacity. That translates to a V mount battery of at least 150Wh with a high discharge rate.
- Dual V Mount Option: The VL150 features a dual battery plate, allowing you to mount two batteries for extended runtime or to meet higher voltage needs.
- Runtime Estimates: With a 150Wh battery, you can expect around 1 hour of continuous use at full power. Using two batteries can double that time.
So, if you’re looking for a v mount battery for Godox VL150, make sure it delivers on capacity and amperage. The right battery will keep your light running without interruptions, letting you focus on your shoot rather than your power supply.
Aputure 120D V Mount Battery Requirements
To choose the right V mount battery for Aputure 120D, it’s important to go beyond just watt-hours. The battery you choose needs to align with the specific electrical and performance demands of the light.
Here are the core requirements:
- Voltage Range: The Aputure 120D requires an input voltage between 12V and 16.8V. Most V mount batteries fall within this range, but always check the specs.
- Discharge Rate (Current Output): The battery must be able to deliver a consistent output of at least 10A. Some lights draw more current at startup, so a battery with a slightly higher max discharge rate (like 12A or 15A) is ideal.
- Capacity: While you can technically power it with a 95Wh battery, it’s safer and more efficient to use 130Wh or higher for longer sessions and to avoid overloading.
- Connection Type: Most Aputure lights with battery support require either D-Tap or a direct V-mount connection, so make sure your battery includes those ports.
- Build Features: Look for batteries with built-in protection circuits (to prevent overcharge, short circuit, etc.), remaining runtime indicators, and rugged casing.
Not adhering to these requirements can lead to poor performance or even damage your light. So, if you’re serious about shooting professionally or even semi-professionally, invest in batteries that match these specs without compromise.
How to Mount V-Mount Batteries to Light Stand
Mounting V mount batteries properly is critical for workflow efficiency and safety. Many lights like the Aputure 120D or Godox VL150 either attach their batteries directly to the ballast or require separate mounting hardware. If you’re planning to mount V-mount batteries to a light stand, here’s how to do it the right way:
Methods for Mounting:
- V-Mount Clamp Brackets: These are specially designed clamps that can attach directly to the light stand and securely hold the V mount plate. Brands like Moman, Kupo, SmallRig, and Neewer offer excellent options.
- Battery Plates with Stand Mounts: Some battery plates come with an integrated stand clamp or spigot for easy attachment.
- Sandbags or Counterweights: Always use a counterweight on the opposite side to balance the stand and prevent tipping—especially when using heavier batteries.
Safety Tips:
- Always double-check that clamps are secure.
- Use high-quality V mount adapters.
- Avoid overextending the stand when adding battery weight.
This mounting technique is especially useful during location shoots or when power outlets are sparse. It keeps your setup clean, safe, and efficient, allowing for smoother transitions between shots and setups.
Conclusion
When it comes to professional lighting in filmmaking, photography, or content creation, power reliability is non-negotiable. That’s where the V mount battery for lights became a game-changer. They offer the kind of portability and performance you simply can’t get with wall plugs or standard batteries—especially when you’re working with powerful gear.