Don't Buy SmallRig V99 Battery!! | A K&F Concept KF V99 Pro Review

[@RossBarnett02]

I've loved using the SmallRig V-Mount Batteries over the last year, but it seems like they've officially been dethroned as the raining champion. What are your thoughts? I'd love to hear them!

[@NomadicBloke1]

you mean "reigning" not raining. lol

[@HistoricMetals]

@@NomadicBloke1 unless they rain all over the floor when they pop off the plate unexpectedly. :)

[@trill_is_bliss]

It’s an awesome time to be a creative. So many options with cameras and accessories. I’ve been using zgcine v mount batteries with the same smallrig v mount adapter set up you have. May have to try out one of these though! Great video!

[@RossBarnett02]

Truly is a fantastic time!!

[@lokeguanrong2828]

I had two of the previous gen K&F V mount batteries, used them for a year now and had no issues, even under mild rain and non of the ports has any issues yet

[@RossBarnett02]

@@lokeguanrong2828 that’s fantastic to hear. I maybe have 10 hours on each battery so far - hoping to have these for years to come. 🙌🏼

[@Superjeanmarc]

Interesting and I definitely understand price is a decisive factor when we’re making tech purchases. But it’s worth asking: should these batteries really be that cheap? And if they are, why and at what consequences? The materials in batteries-like lithium, cobalt, and nickel-are extracted through mining, one of the most damaging industries on the planet. With the shift toward electrification in this so called ‘green transition,’ the demand for rare metals is skyrocketing, and so is the environmental footprint of extracting these resources. Mining devastates natural habitats, pollutes water sources, and often displaces communities. Plus, we’re seeing some truly troubling working conditions in these industries. By demanding cheaper options without questioning where and how these materials are sourced, aren’t we just amplifying the strain on ecosystems and communities? This isn’t to say we shouldn’t strive for affordable gear-just that we should investigate about what ‘cheap’ means when it involves resources that are finite and have such an environmental impact. I’m aware that valuing durability, ethical sourcing, and responsible usage is not yet very popular among the filmmaking KZbin community.. but it’s never too late to start. Food for thought.

[@dylanevans5644]

The expense of these batteries don't really come from the cells, even a 'high quality' battery from the likes of Samsung or Milicell costs $3-4, so about 1/4 of even these comparatively cheap batteries, and if you use a well respected Chinese battery maker like Eve then your'e talking $1.50 a cell (likely less in large quantities) - the cost likely comes from the tooling required for the expected level of sales. It's not like the lithium in a $550 Anton Bauer battery is going to be more responsibly sourced than that from a k&f concept. The worldwide economy is based around competition and company profits. Buying more expensive gear is never going to result in better conditions for workers in badly regulated mining countries.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@Superjeanmarc I love this. It really gives you a lot to think about. At the moment though, it’s really just an assumption. You can’t always assume just because a product is cheaper that it’s acquired more or less ethically than the competition. SmallRig & K&F are both headquartered in the same city, and looking at these batteries side by side they’re most likely made in the same factory. In my opinion, SmallRig is just a more established brand, and therefore can charge/profit more from the same product. However - I really don’t know. It’s definitely something to keep an eye out for in the future!

[@chevysolofpv]

at this pace, you should go back to analog. win win for everyone.

[@Photomeike]

Great review!

[@RossBarnett02]

@@Photomeike appreciate it!

[@pureheartvisuals]

Ughhhhh….. 😣 Fine 😂. Favorite part of the video. I shoot Weddings and always wanted to go V-Mount. I have a few friends that shoot but never really sold me on using V-Mount because I have some many batteries by design to last the day of shooting. I might just grab 2 this time, between Camera/Monitor/My Lights &MacBook I see the convenience.

[@DEFYfitness]

Perfect timing as I’m looking to buy my first v mount battery! May I ask which D Tap cord you use? I assume you use D Tap to USB-C to the camera?

[@RossBarnett02]

@@DEFYfitness my setup might be a little different running the Shinobi II. BUT I have a D-Tap to Sony NP adapter powering the monitor, then the monitor powering the camera via usb-c. Again, this setup only works with the Shinobi II. Link in the description for that power adapter.

[@CharlieStrange]

Although I’ve had my 2 smallrig 99w batteries for over a year and used them on countless projects with no issues…this is making me want to try out these to add to the battery collection!

[@RossBarnett02]

@@CharlieStrange if you already have the SmallRig, it’s really not an upgrade - but if you ever find yourself needing more v-mounts or end up breaking a battery, the K&F version is such a good deal!!

[@GarCorStudio]

Nice review…I also have the smallrig 99wh 1st version and smallrig vmount adapter and never noticed and decided to test its “locking issues”. And you are kinda right, it feels sturdy but a decent enough push from the bottom keeps knocking it off but if I slap the battery hard enough as one of your reviewers suggested, it seems to stay locked in place. But I still find inconsistent locking even when I slap it in with significant force. So I decided to test with my fxlion vmount battery, and it to didn’t lock securely unless significant force is applied. I recently purchased the Neewer (knockoff) version and tested the same two batteries and they locked perfectly even without any force. So I suspect it’s the smallrig vmount adapter. I did notice a new Kondor blue vmount adapter product and their selling point is , no more vmount batteries easily knocking off.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@GarCorStudio I am glad (but also so sorry) that I brought this issue to your attention. It’s so odd. I really only ever noticed it when resting the bottom of the camera on my leg and having the battery pop off. Not the end of the world, but definitely something to keep in mind 🤙🏼

[@GarCorStudio]

@ Don’t be sorry. In fact, I am very glad because I can be cautious when attaching vmount batteries since I took it for granted and that could at some point be detrimental in the middle of a job. Probably explains why some creators advocate more towards the gold mounts. Idk. Anyways, keep up the good work.

[@qkay164]

I have the same problem as you. I found that to solve it, you need to snap the battery in place with more force and speed.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@qkay164 I need to hit the GYM!! 💪🏼

[@Fredo.heavyy]

Got the K&F battery for a LUMIX S9 “cine” build, can confirm it’s amazing

[@RossBarnett02]

@@Fredo.heavyy love that!!

[@rogerdatfilms]

How do you have it attached without any rods below? I have a kondor blue cage and plate for the battery.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@rogerdatfilms there’s a link in the description to a SmallRig plate I’m using. It attaches with two screws to the bottom of the camera & gives you a v-mount attachment. It’s a fantastic solution if you don’t need rails.

[@Bo_Hazem]

K&F and Smallrig are both good companies indeed. This one looks amazing. Never considered Smallrig batteries as I'm happy with the ZGCine, especially for 200W batteries. These look cool and might get one or two for being flight approved.

[@RossBarnett02]

Heck yeah, both great products. I've used the SmallRig for years and the K&F as of recent. This video is 100% designed around the K&F being so much more affordable. But still, both great buys!

[@veilleuxfilms]

I have the same smallrig battery and mount. Mine lock's in fine. You may have a defective battery or mount.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@veilleuxfilms Good!! Another commenter said the same. It could very well be an issue with the mount defect since both of my SmallRig Batteries have this issue. Not sure, I’ll look into it more.

[@dilpreetsingh8123]

The reason I returned it was the dc port was unable to power my atomos ninja v+ bought the neewer one

[@Norain1992]

wow good to know, so you dont have issues with the neewer? How long can you power the Ninja V with that one?

[@ekphotography]

please explain? how this one didn't and the neewer does?

[@Marvnz]

I have the battery. This man is speaking the truth.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@Marvnz YAY!!! Marvnz approved!!

[@Marvnz]

@RossBarnett02 100% 😏♥️♥️✌️

[@DRYLREVOLUTION]

I loveeeee that smallrig plate, but I had the same issue with batteries coming loose. I thought I had a faulty unit, tried different locking mechanisms etc. That kf looks sweet though.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@DRYLREVOLUTION seems like a lot of commenters have had the same issue with the SmallRig plate. Odd. Still love it, but it’s an annoying flaw for sure.

[@srg_creative]

These looks really good, will have to check them out! I like how you showed the flaws in real-world use. The flipped up dtap was a little annoying when I first got one for the same reason as you. I noticed I don't have the same issue with the battery bumping off... maybe certain versions have that issue.

[@RossBarnett02]

Nice!! I guess it might be something with my V-Mount plate then? Both of my SmallRig Batteries have the same issue with coming loose on this plate. Hopefully it's an isolated issue!

[@rafaeldeleon6447]

Trying to save money on camera equipment, I bought these batteries that made a lot of noise when they were announced and I bought 6 units that after 6 months of continuous use were dying one by one. After 4 months of use, they only charged 80% in almost 4 torturous hours. With the first 3 damaged batteries, I decided to speak to the manufacturer and they told me that this was very unusual but that they would keep an eye on my case. In the end, the sad story ended with 6 batteries that only charge to 40% that I use to power my TERADEKs until they can no longer be charged. I went back to my super reliable IDX's

[@RossBarnett02]

@@rafaeldeleon6447 are you talking about the k&f batteries, SmallRig, or a different brand?

[@bobhuynh1974]

@@RossBarnett02 I'm pretty sure he's talking about the Smallrig ones since the K&F ones just came out.

[@avx111]

I wanted to buy their NPF970 but it has too low USB output, hope they release a new version

[@jakeohare913]

I'd wait to see if it's really reliable. I'm seeing a lot of issues with v-mount rigs with fluctuating voltage shorting cameras and causing a whole host of problems with cameras needing new boards.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@jakeohare913 interesting!! With my setup here, I don’t power my camera from the v-mount battery. It’s powering the monitor, then the monitor is providing power delivery to the camera. I’ve never been a big fan of dummy batteries. But I’ll definitely see how the reliability holds up over time.

[@jakeohare913]

@@RossBarnett02 These were more issues with V-mount plates for cinema camera (like FX6/9 types), but yeah same I don't trust dummy batteries and just use for monitors and follow focus. But if I did, USB-c charging with a cable that has a regulator would be the way to go!

[@rogerdatfilms]

@@jakeohare913 I use a Kondor Blue dummy battery on a smallrig v mount battery or sometimes on the kondor blue v mount battery itself while the small rig is attached to it (it has a D tap connection directly from the plate) Should I be cautious now? First time seeing this. Still bit of a newb but cannot afford to ruin my camera.

[@jakeohare913]

@@rogerdatfilms I wouldn't worry too much Kondor blue is pretty reputable for its dummy batteries as long as you make sure you're plugging in the d-tap correctly. I just use usb-c charging for my rig out of an abundance of caution

[@robertdouble559]

I'd like to see how these hold up over time. I've got IDX batteries from 15 years ago that are still going strong.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@robertdouble559 Any battery from 15 years ago that’s still working is super impressive! Only time will tell!

[@TriniGuy19-u3i]

I wished you touched on the fact that the SmallRig cannot power multiple devices from the USB C and USB A at the same time.

[@Mr.Lepanto]

Id love to see this compared to the new v mounts from Neewer

[@GraffitiBlack]

i just bought 3 of the smallrig batteries for $80-$90 each....maybe i just had a lucky find?

[@RossBarnett02]

SmallRig is always doing different price structures and having sales on all their gear, so yes! A good find!

[@fofopho]

Bought 2 of the SmallRig V Mount batteries. The USB port died after 2 uses. Never even took it out of my office.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@fofopho ooof, that sucks. I would return them, or (if you’re out of the return date) contact SmallRig customer support. They’ve been fantastic with me in the past.

[@BlackapinoTheTechGuy]

*I use Smallrig AND Neewer V Mounted Battery & the Neewer is $194.99 with 30% which made is $136 for a 99w but Both work Amazing I have the 50w for my Amaran 60D and My Other (2) for my Camera and separate battery banks lmao *

[@RossBarnett02]

@@BlackapinoTheTechGuy love that! I haven’t tested the Neewer, but I’d imagine they all perform fairly identically.

[@jacobzatorsky]

This is so much cheaper! here in GB during black friday k&f is 115 and smallrig is 220 . literally two batteries for the price of one!

[@RossBarnett02]

@@jacobzatorsky we love a good deal!!

[@jacobzatorsky]

@@RossBarnett02 honestly i was so close to choosing the small rig but you opened my mind to this!

[@AlbertoMendoza]

I have the same issue with my small rig battery & small rig plate. It’s so annoying

[@RossBarnett02]

@@AlbertoMendoza dang! After reading a few comments I was hoping this was an isolated issue with just my plate & batteries. SO weird!

[@oscarrivera967]

Just bought the k&f for $106 after discount

[@RossBarnett02]

@@oscarrivera967 such a steal!!

[@ekphotography]

Where, they are 118.00 on their site and amazon...

[@RossBarnett02]

@ discount code “ROSS” brings that $118 down to $94 on their website. Amazon is currently $118 with an additional $15 coupon bringing it down to $105

[@JaySea]

Not available in Australia.. RIP

[@RossBarnett02]

@@JaySea oh bummer!!

[@ekphotography]

Unfortunately Amazon raised the Price to 159.00 and even on Black Friday deal right now it is 120.000. and the Newer Small Rig 99 are 149.00 looks like SmallRig it is for 29.00 extra,,, Bummer, This would be a no brainer if they did not raise the price of them only to bring the price back down to "normal" for Black Friday.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@ekphotography dang!! I’ve been seeing the Amazon prices rise steadily over the last few weeks. If you buy from K&F directly, it’s currently $118 and you can still use my discount on the description.

[@ekphotography]

@@RossBarnett02 Just tried to but after going through all the hassle and with your code they say they are out of Stock as soon as I hit check out.. I smell BS. And in Amazon I added 5 to my cart and it was fine, so they are lying if you ask me...

[@blackburst1]

Just bought 2 x SmallRig VB 99 Pro batteries on B&H for $179 each. The sale just ended but they've been 179, not 249 for quite a long time. Consider Canon's 99 Watt Hour battery for their cine cameras, the BP-A60N is $469 and Sony's similar BP-100U is $445, the SmallRig batteries are a steal. The only way KF Concept gets them so cheap is 1 - they steal other companies designs so they don't have to pay for R&D and 2 - they use inferior materials & battery cells that don't last as long as more expensive batteries.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@blackburst1 Fair point on the discount, SmallRig is continuously changing their pricing structure. I would assume since both K&F & SmallRig are headquartered in the same city, and these batteries are so similar, these batteries are probably manufactured in the same facility. Just as you could assume K&F is using inferior materials, you could also assume the opposite (that other companies are pulling unnecessary profits) But, honestly it’s all assumption at this point. We don’t really know.

[@AnthonyRodriguezz]

I’d be concerned about long term durability

[@RossBarnett02]

@@AnthonyRodriguezz I have no reason to be concerned, but I will definitely be watching and seeing how long it lasts compared to my other batteries. 🤙🏼

[@fauland_photography]

How many V-mount plates and batteries have you tested (having the falling off when hitting it problem) ? Don't tell me just the single one in the video! ... We have many, and I mean _many_ SR V-mount plates and batteries in our kit and abuse them on a daily basis ... Never ever did one pop out - just saying. Don't get me wrong I am using gear from practically all companies on the market that fit our needs. I would be also very careful with "there is a general problem" kind of thing, if it might be one faulty unit. Over and out ... :-)

[@RossBarnett02]

@@fauland_photography I just have one of the SmallRig plates, 2 SmallRig batteries both have the same issue. At first I thought it was just a me problem. I was honestly hoping for that (I really do love SmallRig, no hate here) - but after reading some comments there are others in the comments with the same issues. So, I guess I’m not alone.

[@fauland_photography]

@@RossBarnett02 Sounds like your locking mechanism of the plate has a problem. I had 1st ACs even holding the cam using the battery with the plate . I got really mad at him for that by the way :-) I will have a closer look at that tomorrow on the next shoot. :-)

[@robinprobyn1971]

mmmm cheap batteries , got to be a reason , to me thats like buying the cheapest parachute ..

[@RossBarnett02]

Honestly, I’ve never had any issues running off brand batteries in my camera, or running off brand batteries on anything. I think the whole “cheap batteries fry your gear” thing is a myth created by high end brands. 😂

[@robinprobyn1971]

Sony definitely got sick of fixing cameras under warranty ,from knock off batts / dummy batts bricking cameras . Im not saying all off brand batts are bad , my FxLion mini V mounts have been perfect for over 4 years , just that I wouldn't go looking for the cheapest , same with cards , there has to be a reason they can still make a profit and charge far less than the majority of manufacturers.

[@robertdouble559]

I cant stop looking at the way the back-light is making your ear glow...not glow....glow...not glow. Super distracting. But hey...that's just me.

[@RossBarnett02]

@@robertdouble559 lol, fair point. There’s a “hair light” behind me to create separation from the black wall / but (because I’m lazy) it’s just on the ground pointing up towards my head at a 45° angle. So when I lean forward the chair creates a shadow and the light misses my head, when I lean back it’s fully on my head. I need to move it above my head where a hair light belongs. For what it’s worth I appreciate the comment 🤙🏼

[@Samvisualarts]

Oh wow thanks for the tip! I had no idea about that loose lock on the smallrig battery, definitely going to check out this KF one

[@RossBarnett02]

@@Samvisualarts looking at the comments on this video, the loose lock seems to not be an issue for everyone (thankfully!), but there are a few others who share the same issue as I do.