Using a V mount battery for Canon 5D is a good choice if you’re using a Canon EOS 5D, or any model from the 5D series, and want extended shooting time, improved balance, and a more professional rig setup. In this post, you will learn:
- What are V-mount batteries that are used to power the Canon 5D?
- Why do you need one?
- How to build up a suitable V-mount battery system to power the EOS 5D?
- What to notice when using it?
What is a V-mount battery?
A V-mount battery (also known as a V-lock battery) is a professional power source widely used in the video and film industry. It attaches securely to camera rigs, cages, or mounting plates and delivers high-capacity, high-voltage power to cameras, lights, monitors, and other accessories.
This rechargeable battery type features a standardized V-shaped metal interface that allows quick and secure attachment or removal from compatible devices. While traditionally favored for professional video setups, V-mount batteries are increasingly popular among DSLR and mirrorless users for hybrid video production.
Main features:
✨Universal V-mount interface: Locks firmly onto rigs, plates, or brackets for secure installation.
✨High-voltage output: Typically 14.4–14.8V, suitable for powering various professional gear.
✨Multiple power ports: Includes D-Tap, 12V barrel, USB-C, and USB-A outputs for running multiple devices simultaneously.
✨Large capacity: Provides extended operation time—ideal for long shoots, outdoor filming, and continuous video production.
Why use one for the Canon EOS 5D?
Your Canon EOS 5D and most cameras in the 5D series typically run on a Canon LP-E6 or LP-E6N battery, or a compatible alternative. These batteries come with a capacity of around 1800–2000mAh and a voltage of approximately 7.4–8.4V. Switching to a V-mount battery setup offers several clear advantages:
🌟Longer Shooting Sessions: A V-mount battery—such as a 99Wh model—offers much higher capacity than standard DSLR batteries, meaning you can film for hours without needing to swap batteries mid-shoot.
🌟Multiple Professional Outputs: With built-in ports such as D-Tap, USB-C/USB-A, and 12V/8V outputs, a V-mount battery can simultaneously power your 5D camera and external devices like monitors and recorders. The Moman Power 99, for example, features several output options to suit professional rigs.
🌟Organized Power Solution: Instead of managing multiple small batteries, you can mount one V-mount battery at the back of your rig, connect the 5D via a dummy LP-E6 adapter, and distribute power to all other accessories directly. This keeps your setup neat and efficient.
In a nutshell, if you are:
- Videographers using the 5D for long takes, interviews, documentaries, or where battery swaps are disruptive.
- Hybrid shooters with rigs, external monitors, lights, and audio gear that need centralized power.
- Professionals or enthusiasts building cage/shoulder rigs for pro-style workflows.
A V-lock battery is a good investment.
Conversely, you might not need one if you are:
- Pure still-photo shooters who swap standard LP-E6 batteries regularly and don’t use a rig.
- Lightweight travel shooters where rig simplicity and minimal gear matter more than maximum run time.
- Users who are on a tight budget and don’t need high-capacity accessories.
How to build up the right V mount battery setup for Canon EOS 5D?
Choosing a V-mount battery for DSLR like Canon 5D involves a few key steps focused on compatibility, capacity, and the necessary accessories to get the power from the V-mount battery to the camera.
Here is a guide on how to choose the right V-mount setup for your Canon 5D:
Look for V-mount plate and dummy battery for proper connection
Because the Canon 5D runs on an LP-E6 battery, you can’t connect a V-mount battery straight to the camera. You’ll need a proper adapter system consisting of the following parts:
Canon LP-E6 Dummy Battery: This component mimics the shape of the LP-E6 battery and fits into the camera’s battery compartment. It features an external power cable—Canon’s official version is known as the DR-E6 DC Coupler.
V-Mount Battery Plate with Voltage Regulator: The plate mounts the V-mount battery to your rig and regulates voltage. Since V-mount batteries deliver 14.4–14.8V while the Canon 5D requires about 8V, the plate or connecting cable must include a built-in regulator to safely reduce the voltage to the correct level.
Connection Cable: Make sure the adapter or V-mount plate cable uses the right connector—commonly a D-Tap or DC barrel plug—that matches your battery’s output port.
⚠️Safety Reminder: Never attach a 14.4V or 14.8V power source directly to your Canon 5D. Always use an adapter with an integrated voltage regulator to prevent damaging the camera. The Moman DE6, for example, is an LP-E6 dummy battery with a D-tap connector and regulated 8V output. It is a good choice to work together with the V-mount battery to securely power your EOS 5D.
Choose a suitable V-mount battery based on your shooting needs with the Canon 5D
Once you’ve set up the proper V-mount plate or adapter, you can select a V-mount battery based on your shooting needs and setup.
👉Capacity (Watt-Hours): The battery’s capacity determines how long you can operate your gear. A 99Wh mini battery is the most common choice for compact rigs like the Canon 5D, offering several hours of runtime while staying within airline carry-on limits. Higher-capacity options (150Wh and above) provide extended power for larger cinema cameras and lighting equipment but are heavier and may face air travel restrictions.
👉Output Ports: One of the biggest advantages of V-mount systems is their ability to power multiple accessories. Choose a battery with the ports your setup requires—D-Tap outputs (typically 14.4V) are standard for monitors and lights, while USB-C or USB-A ports can charge mobile devices or power accessories using USB Power Delivery. Some models also include regulated DC outputs (e.g., 8V or 12V) for equipment needing specific voltages.
👉Size and Weight: V-mount batteries come in various sizes. Mini V-mounts (around 99Wh) are lightweight and ideal for DSLRs like the 5D, keeping the rig portable. Standard V-mounts are bulkier but work well as counterweights for longer lenses or shoulder-mounted setups.
The Moman Power 99 Touch, based on the above factors, is a smart pick. With a 99Wh capacity, it gives you several hours of runtime while remaining airline-friendly. It includes D-Tap, USB-C, USB-A, and 8V DC outputs—making it ideal for powering monitors, lights, mobile devices, and accessories. Plus, it weighs only 550g and is travel-ready, so it won’t burden your rig or shoulder setup.
📌Note: The Power 99 Touch is now on sale. With the “Buy one and get the second one at 50% off” promotion and the coupon code BATE20 for 20% off, you can get two units for $232.70.
Consider your camera rig mounting and counterweight
Finally, think about how the battery connects to your setup:
15mm Rod Clamp: Most V-mount plates feature a clamp that attaches firmly to the 15mm rods on your camera cage or shoulder rig.
Counterweight: Because the Canon 5D is fairly lightweight, placing a V-mount battery on the back of a shoulder rig helps serve as a counterbalance, evenly distributing the weight of the camera and lens at the front.
What to notice when using a V mount battery for Canon 5D?
Pay attention to these tips to ensure safe and proper use of the V-lock battery with your Canon EOS 5D.
💡Use a reliable dummy LP-E6 adapter that connects to your V-mount plate and delivers the proper voltage to your camera.
💡Mount the V-mount battery securely on the back of your rig or cage to maintain balance and prevent strain on the camera.
💡Keep an eye on the total power usage. Accessories like monitors, recorders, and lights can deplete the battery more quickly than expected.
💡Bring a spare battery or keep a charger nearby for quick replacements during shoots.
💡Avoid storing batteries completely drained; for long-term health, keep them around 40–60% charge.
💡Check your camera firmware and power setup. Some third-party dummy adapters have been known to cause compatibility or power drain issues.
💡When traveling by air, stick with batteries rated at 100Wh or less for carry-on safety; most 99Wh models meet this requirement.
💡Watch for heat buildup, especially with higher-capacity batteries. Make sure your rig has proper ventilation.
