BioLite BaseCharge 1500 Review

The BioLite BaseCharge 1500 is a portable power station that provides an off-site power solution for photographers and videographers. With a capacity of 1521 watt-hours, the power station can power all your camera equipment, laptops and even a kettle when it’s time for a break.

The power station stands out from the competition with a design that is well-considered for photographers. The larger-than-average top surface is an ideal place to rest cameras and other kit while working and is ideally designed as a charging station.

A nice touch for the large top area is that it features wireless charging, ideal for boosting your phone’s charge just by popping it on top, although no cameras support the feature as yet. On the front, there’s an easy-to-read Smart LCD Dashboard that provides real-time feedback on the system’s use. As each additional device is plugged in, the power draw is shown on the panel. The BioLite BaseCharge 1500 has a maximum output of 1200 watts and a 2400-watt surge; this makes it capable of handling multiple imaging devices with ease.

The BioLite BaseCharge 1500 comes with multiple input and output ports, including three AC sockets, one 12V Carport Output, two 12V DC Barrel Ports, one Wall/Solar Input (HPP), one USB-C PD, two USB-A, and two USB-C. The addition of the USB Type-C PD 100W socket makes the BioLite BaseCharge 1500 a real asset for photographers and videographers looking to power their cameras and laptops directly.

The power station can be recharged from the wall, car, or through solar. The charging time to 80% is up to 13.5 hours with the included AC adapter or 8 hours with the AC adapter and USB-C PD which does sound a little slow. The power station can also be charged using the SolarPanel 100 (sold separately), allowing you to charge it in as little as 4 hours from solar.

The BioLite BaseCharge 1500 has a solid and reliable performance, making it suitable for small to medium-sized shoots. It also features an internal 12 Checkpoint Safety System that constantly monitors the unit, ensuring safe power sharing to a network of devices.

Design-wise, the power station outer is made from durable and sturdy plastic, with carry handles on each side that make it easy to lift and move.

The Resettable Energy Odometer is also a helpful feature that allows photographers to monitor their power usage and plan their energy needs for future trips and unexpected outages.

The BioLite BaseCharge 1500 offers reliable performance for photographers and videographers in off-grid environments. The power station can be charged through the mains or solar, with a maximum input of 400W, which is slightly less than some other portable power stations on the market such as the EcoFlow Delta range.

In the test, the charge time using the AC adapter was slower than most of the competition.

One of the standout features of the BioLite BaseCharge 1500 is its superb build quality, which is evident in its well-laid-out sockets and clear display. The addition of the USB Type-C PD 100W socket is a real winner for photographers and videographers who need to power their cameras and laptops directly.

In use, the BioLite BaseCharge 1500 performs well for small to medium-sized shoots, providing ample power for various devices. However, users should be careful not to exceed the 1200W upper limit. The wireless charging spot on the top is also a nice addition, with a maximum wireless charge of 10W, slightly less than some other models on the market, but still great to have.

The BioLite BaseCharge 1500 is a solid performer that stands out due to its excellent build quality. However, users may wish for more clout regarding output, as some competitors offer higher output wattage and far faster charging times. Additionally, a WiFi app would have been a nice, allowing users to monitor their power usage and control the power station remotely.

The BioLite BaseCharge 1500 is a reliable and efficient portable power station that offers a great power solution for photographers and videographers in off-grid environments. While it may not have the highest wattage output, has slightly slower charge times and lacks a WiFi app, its excellent build quality and features, such as the USB Type-C PD socket and wireless charging spot, make it a worthwhile investment for those in need of a high-quality power solution.

The BioLite BaseCharge 1500 is a portable power station that offers a great solution for photographers and videographers. The power station boasts a sleek and modern design, with nice ergonomics and style that make it easy to lift and carry, as well as supplying mains equivalent power for all your kit and charging needs.

The BioLite BaseCharge 1500 offers a good variety of ports and sockets, allowing you to power various devices on a day’s shoot, including cameras, lights, and other equipment. However, you should be cautious not to overload the battery by plugging in too many devices at once. The power station has good surge protection, which helps prevent any potential damage to connected devices.

The addition of the USB Type-C PD 100W socket is a real asset, enabling you to plug in cameras and laptops directly. This feature is particularly useful for those who need to power devices on the go.

Compared to the competition, the BioLite BaseCharge 1500 is expensive, but for that additional cost, you are paying for a high level of quality and design. The power station’s excellent build quality and features make it a worthwhile investment for those needing a reliable and efficient off-site power solution.

The BioLite BaseCharge 1500 is a great portable power station that offers convenience, reliability, and versatility for photographers and videographers. Its sleek design, decent volume of ports and sockets, and the addition of the USB Type-C PD 100W socket make it a standout option on the market, the only downside is the mains charge times are slow.

While it may be expensive compared to some competitors, you are investing in a high-quality and durable power solution that will serve well for your camera equipment wherever you are.