Can You Charge a Camera Battery with a Power Bank?
Short answer:
Yes — but in most cases, a power bank cannot charge a camera battery directly unless the camera or charger supports USB input.
Most camera batteries require a dedicated charger or a USB-powered dummy battery to work with a power bank. Simply connecting a battery to a power bank without proper voltage regulation will not work and may damage the battery.
👉 What actually works in real use:
Charging the battery inside the camera via USB-C or Micro-USB (if supported)
Using a USB camera battery charger
Using a dummy battery + DC/USB output from a power bank
⚠️ What does NOT work:
Connecting bare camera batteries directly to a power bank
Using the wrong voltage or unstable output
If you’re a photographer, filmmaker, or traveler, you’ve likely faced the frustration of a dead camera battery at the worst possible moment. The good news? You don’t have to rely on wall outlets anymore. Power banks are now powerful enough to keep your camera going wherever you are. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to charge a camera battery using a power bank safely and efficiently.
Can You Really Charge a Camera Battery with a Power Bank?
Yes, you can—but it depends on your camera model and how you approach the setup. Many modern cameras now support USB charging, while others may require an external charger or a dummy battery adapter.
There are three main methods:
- Direct USB charging into the camera body
- Charging the battery using a USB-compatible external charger
- Using a dummy battery adapter powered by a USB or DC output
What You’ll Need to Get Started
A Compatible Power Bank
Make sure your power bank offers enough output:
- Compact cameras: 5V/2A is usually sufficient
- Mirrorless or DSLR: Look for 9V or 12V output, or USB-C PD (18W+)
The Right Cable or Adapter
- USB-A to Micro USB or USB-C (depending on your camera port)
- USB-C to USB-C for newer mirrorless models
- DC-to-dummy battery adapter for cameras without USB charging support
USB Compatibility by Brand
- Canon: Some EOS R and M series models support USB-C charging
- Sony: Alpha series like A7 III, A6400, etc.
- Nikon: Z series and newer DSLRs
- GoPro, Insta360: Native USB charging supported
3 Ways to Charge a Camera Battery Using a Power Bank
1. Direct USB Charging
If your camera supports USB charging:
- Plug one end into the power bank and the other into your camera’s USB port
- Ensure your camera is turned off (some models won’t charge while on)
- Ideal for lightweight travel setups and quick top-ups
2. External Charger with USB Input
Most third-party battery chargers now come with USB input:
- Insert the camera battery into the charger
- Connect the charger to the power bank via USB cable
- This is perfect if you want to charge a spare battery while still shooting
3. Dummy Battery Adapter
If your camera doesn’t support USB charging:
- Use a dummy battery that replaces your original battery
- Connect the dummy to a DC-to-USB cable or USB-C PD adapter
- Common for long-form shooting, time-lapses, and livestreaming
Safety Tips for Charging Camera Batteries with Power Banks
- Use Certified Cables & Adapters: Avoid cheap cables that lack voltage regulation
- Watch the Heat: Charging in hot weather or direct sunlight can be dangerous
- Enable Overcharge Protection: Only use power banks with built-in BMS (Battery Management System)
- Keep an Eye on Charging Speeds: If your camera supports PD, use a PD-enabled port for fast charging
Recommended Features in a Power Bank for Camera Use
| Feature | Why It Matters |
| 18W+ USB-C PD Output | Supports fast charging for newer mirrorless cameras |
| DC Output (9V/12V/15V) | For dummy battery systems |
| High Capacity (20,000mAh+) | Ensures multiple charges or full-day use |
| Multiple Ports | Charge your phone, light, and camera simultaneously |
| Compact & Lightweight | Ideal for travel photographers and hikers |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I charge my Canon/Sony/Nikon camera with a power bank?
Yes, but it depends on the model. Check if your camera supports USB charging. If not, use a dummy battery setup.
Is it safe to charge a camera battery with a power bank?
Absolutely, as long as you use the correct voltage/current and a power bank with proper protection features.
How many times can I charge my camera with a 20,000mAh power bank?
Rough estimate: 4–6 full charges depending on battery size (typically 1000–2000mAh per battery).
Will it damage the camera over time?
No, as long as you use regulated output and follow manufacturer charging recommendations.
Conclusion: Charge Anywhere, Shoot Anytime
Power banks have become an essential tool in every photographer’s bag. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains, filming a travel vlog, or working on a shoot in a remote area, the ability to charge your camera battery on the go is a game-changer.
Choose a power bank with the right specs, use certified accessories, and stay aware of your camera’s compatibility—and you’ll never miss a shot again.
Need help finding a power bank that works with your camera? Browse our compatible models here or contact us for expert advice.
