SmallRig has introduced a specialized version of its popular NP-F970 USB-C battery, designed for extreme cold-weather operation. This new model features a 7500mAh capacity, dual USB-C and USB-A ports, 36W PD fast charging, OLED display with touch controls, and the ability to discharge at temperatures as low as -40°C/-40°F without external heating solutions.
Sony NP-F970 batteries have become a standard power solution across the filmmaking industry, powering everything from LED lights and monitors to wireless video transmitters and follow focus systems. SmallRig has been steadily expanding their battery lineup over the past two years, and we previously covered their standard NP-F970 USB-C battery release in May 2024. That model offered 10500mAh capacity and dual USB ports, making it a versatile option for powering camera accessories. Now, the company is targeting a specific use case with this new Extreme Cold Endurance variant.
SmallRig USB-C Camera Battery. Credit: SmallRigDesigned for sub-zero shooting conditions
The defining feature of this battery is its engineered capability to discharge at temperatures as low as -40°C/F. For cinematographers working in arctic conditions, winter sports productions, or high-altitude locations, battery performance typically degrades significantly in cold weather. Standard lithium-ion cells lose capacity and struggle to maintain voltage in freezing temperatures, often requiring external heating solutions or frequent battery changes.
SmallRig’s Extreme Cold Endurance model addresses this challenge through specialized cell chemistry and circuitry designed to maintain reliable power delivery in extreme cold. The battery eliminates the need for external heating packs or insulated pouches, simplifying cold-weather shooting workflows. This makes it particularly relevant for documentary crews working in polar regions, adventure filmmakers shooting winter sports, or any production operating in sub-zero environments.
SmallRig USB-C Camera Battery. Credit: SmallRigCapacity and runtime considerations
The battery features a rated capacity of 7500mAh at a nominal voltage of 7.2V, delivering 54Wh of total energy. This represents a capacity reduction compared to SmallRig’s standard NP-F970 model, which offers 10500mAh. The lower capacity is a deliberate tradeoff, as the specialized cells and circuitry required for extreme cold operation typically result in reduced energy density.
For practical runtime estimates, a typical 5-inch monitor drawing 8W would run for approximately 6.5 hours on a full charge under normal conditions. LED lights in the 10-15W range would see 3.5 to 5 hours of operation. Cold weather will reduce these figures, though the battery’s cold-optimized design should minimize performance degradation compared to standard cells operating in the same conditions.
Dual-port power bank functionality
Beyond powering camera accessories through the standard NP-F plate connection, the battery functions as a standalone power bank with both USB-C and USB-A ports. The USB-C port supports bidirectional power delivery, functioning as both input for charging and output for powering devices. The USB-A port provides output only.
The USB-C and USB-A output circuits operate independently on separate power management systems, allowing simultaneous fast charging of two devices. Combined output is capped at 54W total across both ports. This independent circuit design means you can charge a smartphone via USB-A while simultaneously powering a small monitor or wireless transmitter through USB-C without power delivery conflicts.
Fast charging via USB-C PD
The USB-C port supports 36W Power Delivery input, enabling a full battery recharge in approximately 2 hours from a compatible PD charger. This represents a significant workflow advantage over traditional external NP-F chargers, which typically require 3.5 to 5 hours for a full charge cycle.
The bidirectional USB-C port means the battery can be charged in the field from a laptop USB-C port, a larger V-Mount battery with USB-C output like SmallRig’s VB212 or VB99 models, or any standard USB-C wall charger. This flexibility eliminates the need to carry dedicated battery chargers on location, particularly valuable for traveling productions with weight and space constraints.
Credit: SmallRigOLED display and modern design
SmallRig has equipped the battery with touch button controls and an OLED screen that displays precise remaining battery percentage in real-time. This moves beyond the typical 4-LED indicator system found on most NP-F batteries, providing exact capacity readouts rather than approximate quarter-charge increments.
The battery features what SmallRig describes as a “sleek, minimalist design” available in multiple color options, continuing their trend toward more consumer-friendly aesthetics in professional accessories. The housing integrates SmallRig’s intelligent battery management system with comprehensive circuit protection, including overcharge, over-discharge, overcurrent, short circuit, and temperature monitoring.
The battery dimensions are 160 x 116mm with a thickness typical of NP-F970 form factor batteries, maintaining compatibility with standard NP-F battery plates across monitors, lights, and camera rigs.
Credit: SmallRigAvailability and pricing
The battery is expected to start shipping in the U.S on February 28th, and in the EU on March 15th. The price is set to $99/€105.
For additional information, please head to the SmallRig product page here.
Have you encountered battery performance issues when shooting in extreme cold conditions? Would the -40°C operating capability justify choosing this lower-capacity model over the standard 10500mAh version for cold-weather productions? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!