DJI has already entered the portable power station arena with two amazing options that are good enough to warrant our guide to the best portable power stations for drone pilots. In April 2024, a company known for making drones launched two products that are similar to each other but appeal to a much broader population, not just drone pilots. There is DJI Power 1000 and DJI Power 500. But which is better, DJI Power 1000 or Power 500?
Simply put, the DJI Power 1000 is about twice as powerful as the DJI Power 500 and is twice as expensive. For some users, doubling the power is important. But for others, you may end up paying twice as much for power storage that you can utilize.
If money is no object, you might want the DJI Power 1000. But that isn't always the case. Considering its higher power storage capacity, it's about 12 pounds heavier. It weighs 28.6 pounds compared to the DJI Power 500 which weighs only 16.06 pounds. Certainly, pilots may prefer the DJI Power 500. This guide will help you compare these new DJI stations and decide which one is best for your aerial adventure.
The Ultimate Guide to DJI Portable Power Stations
So what exactly are portable power plants for? Think about a future that goes beyond generators and car chargers. Car chargers are not very powerful and cannot charge power-hungry products. Or if it is possible, it will be a slow process.
Generators, on the other hand, can be powerful. However, they are typically large, emit heavy smoke, and can be noisy.
To give you the best of both worlds, consider a portable power station like the DJI Power 1000 or DJI Power 500. The larger of the two, the Power 1000, also weighs less than 30 pounds. Charges your device in approximately 1 hour. And it's really quiet. To prove this, the DJI Power 1000, for example, only produces 23dB. Quieter than most home refrigerators.
A power plant like this would definitely be helpful for drone pilots who need to recharge in the field, but it's also very useful for campers who want to charge their phones and lights in nature without the loud noise of a generator disturbing the peace. They can also serve a practical function at home by acting as a backup power source in case of power outages.
Here's a guide to the best portable power station options from DJI:
DJI Power 1000 vs Power 500
characteristic | DJI Power 1000 | DJI Power 500 |
---|---|---|
battery capacity | 1024Wh | 512Wh |
maximum power output | 2200W | 1000W |
Fast recharge mode | 1200W | 540W |
Standard recharge mode | 600W | 270W |
weight pounds) | 28.6 | 16.06 |
Price (USD) | $999 | $499 |
ideal target | Long distance travel, multiple batteries | short trip, backpacking trip |
outstanding features | High capacity, fast charging | Portable, fast charging, lightweight |
port | Two 140W USB-C ports, AC port, vehicle port | Two 100W USB-C ports, AC port, vehicle port |
And let's say you're curious about how many times each portable power charger can charge a certain item. The following is a table comparing the charging times of common products. Of course, if you can, for example, charge your phone twice, your laptop once, and your drone three times, you should consider the following combinations of charging figures:
Number of charges per power plant for common technology products
Now what about charging the DJI power plant itself? Both devices can be fully charged in less than 70 minutes. If you don't have much time, you can charge it to 80% in at least 50 minutes.
Who is DJI Power 1000 best suited for?
A true powerhouse, the Power 1000 boasts an enormous capacity of 1000Wh. This means multiple drone battery recharges, making it ideal for long distance travel or supporting multiple drones on professional shoots. It is also expected to feature fast charging capabilities, allowing it to get back into the air quickly.
disadvantage? It is quite heavy, weighing over 28 pounds. I wouldn't want to carry this with me on a hike. Given this, it is not suitable for backpacking or other situations where portability is the main concern.
Who is the DJI Power 500 best suited for?
With a capacity of 500Wh, the Power 500 is smaller and more portable than its larger counterparts. Although not very powerful, it provides enough power for multiple drone battery charges, making it perfect for short outings or weekend adventures. Fast charging is also a priority.
It's only 16 pounds, so you can't call it light. However, this is one of the lightest portable power plants you can find. Consider this an excellent choice for drone pilots who prioritize easy portability and want a station that fits comfortably in a backpack.
Supported Port Types
Using a standard power socket, Power 1000 supports both 1200W fast charging mode and 600W standard charging mode. Meanwhile, Power 500 supports both 540W fast charging mode and 270W standard charging mode.
It's a similar story with USB-C, where Power 500 has lower performance than Power 1000. Both have two USB-C output ports, but the Power 1000 is 140W, with a total power output of up to 280W. The Power 500 is only 100W, with a total input power of 200W.
What about solar power?
Here the two are almost identical. Both products can be connected to solar panels via the DJI Power Solar Panel Adapter Module (MPPT) or the DJI Power Car Power Outlet to SDC Power Cable.
DJI Power 1000 vs. Power 500: How to Decide
With its impressive capacity and focus on fast charging, this charging station will be a game-changer for drone pilots. So which one should you choose? The ideal DJI Power Station for you will depend on your drone and overall needs. Here's a quick analysis to help you decide:
- Choose DJI Power 1000 if: For long distance travel, multiple drone batteries, or professional filming, you need maximum capacity. Fast charging and the ability to power multiple devices are also priorities. Portability may be the second issue.
- Choose DJI Power 500 if: For backpacking or frequent travel, portability and light weight are priorities. The Power 500 provides enough power for multiple drone charges and multiple device charges, making it perfect for short adventures. Fast charging is another advantage.
Whichever DJI Power Station you choose, you can power your drone and your entire exploration kit (including laptop, lights, and cell phone) for an unforgettable adventure.