What is the right charger for a drone or camera that charges by USB-C?

Main answer · Wecent Editorial Team

Short answer: Many recent cameras and drone battery chargers support USB-C PD, and a 65W–100W PD charger often works well. But devices differ: some only accept specific voltages, some charge in-camera at low power only, and some drone battery hubs need a certain wattage for fast charging. Check the device maker’s specification for USB-C charging, required voltage and wattage. If it lists USB PD at a given wattage, choose a charger that provides at least that.

Cameras

Many mirrorless and compact cameras support charging or powering via USB-C. Some charge the battery in-camera only when switched off; others also power the camera during use. Power requirements are usually modest. Check whether the camera requires USB PD and which wattage.

Drones

Drone batteries are often charged with a dedicated charging hub. Some hubs accept USB-C PD input, sometimes at specific wattages such as 65W or 100W, for fast charging. Others need the maker’s own adapter. Check the hub’s specification.

Why voltage matters

USB PD chargers offer standard voltages: 5V, 9V, 15V and 20V, plus PPS on some. A device that requires 20V needs a charger offering 20V at sufficient current. Most 65W and 100W chargers do.

Field and travel use

Photographers often travel with several devices: camera, drone, laptop and phone. A multi-port 100W charger can charge several at once; check per-port allocation. For drone hubs needing 65W or more, use the main port alone.

Cables

Use 5A cables above 60W. Good cables matter when charging high-value equipment.

Power banks

For field use, a PD power bank can charge cameras and some drone hubs. Check the power bank’s output and the device’s input.

Charging several batteries

Drone hubs often charge batteries one after another rather than all at once. Total charging time depends on the hub’s design as much as on the charger’s wattage. A higher-wattage charger helps only up to what the hub accepts.

Cold conditions

Outdoor shoots in cold weather affect batteries. Many lithium batteries shouldn’t be charged when very cold; let them warm to room temperature first, as the device maker advises.

What we can and can’t confirm

We can’t confirm compatibility with every camera or drone. Test with the specific devices before advertising compatibility, and refer customers to the device maker’s specification.

What to tell customers

“If your camera or drone hub supports USB-C PD, our 65W or 100W chargers should charge it. Check your device’s manual for the required wattage and voltage.”

Where this answer says confirm with Wecent, the detail is not published on the product page and has to come from the datasheet or the factory. General facts come from the standards bodies, regulators or device makers named in the text.