DJI Power 1000 Mini Review: Large battery capacity despite small size!

DJI Power 1000 Mini: Design, build quality and scope of delivery

The DJI Power 1000 Mini comes in the unmistakable DJI dark gray, measures approximately 31,4 x 21,2 x 21,6 cm, and weighs 11,5 kg. Unlike many other power stations, the housing is not elongated but rather cube-shaped. You can imagine it as two shoeboxes stacked on top of each other.

For transport, there's a handle firmly integrated into the back of the housing. This is perfectly adequate for short distances, but a second handle would be desirable for longer journeys. Rubber feet on the bottom ensure stability. Fresh air is drawn in through the back, while warm air escapes through the sides.

All ports are conveniently located on the front. There are two 230-volt power outlets spaced well apart, two USB-C ports with up to 100W output (one of which is integrated as a retractable cable), and two USB-A ports with 24W output. There's also an SDC port for DJI accessories such as car chargers or solar panels. Below the ports is an LED light strip that can be dimmed and also features a flashing function.

DJI keeps the scope of delivery minimalist. Besides the power station itself, only a standard power cable, a quick start guide, and the usual documentation are included. Car or solar charging, as well as other accessories like SDC adapters, must be purchased separately.

DJI Power 1000 Mini: Performance

The two AC sockets deliver approximately 800 W continuously, with short-term outputs of up to 1.000 to 1.200 W. This is sufficient to operate many devices, but not all at once. A kettle or coffee maker will work, but a hairdryer on full power or several high-power appliances running simultaneously will be too much.

Things get critical as soon as devices with high inrush currents are involved. A refrigerator might work, but it's not guaranteed, depending on the model. Tools or compressors are also more a matter of luck. In such cases, the power station shuts down cleanly before any problems arise.

As is typical, the usable capacity is less than the stated 1.008 Wh. In practice, around 850 to just under 900 Wh is realistic when plugged into wall sockets, slightly less under lighter loads. Efficiency is generally good, especially at low loads. The power station loses relatively little energy when only small devices are connected.

The sine wave is smooth, so computer power supplies can run stably with it. That was to be expected, though.

DJI Power 1000 Mini: Charging

The DJI Power 1000 Mini charges via a wall outlet at up to 1.000 W, fully charging in just over an hour. This is extremely advantageous when speed is essential. Alternatively, the power station can also be charged via USB-C at up to 100 W. This is significantly slower and intended more as a backup, for example, when you only have a compatible power adapter with you on the go. A full charge via USB-C takes several hours.

Things get more interesting with the optional accessories. Up to 400 W of charging power is possible via the SDC connection, for example, using a solar panel or directly from the car battery. When charging via the car battery, the power station is connected directly to it and thus charges while driving using the running engine. This is significantly faster compared to a conventional 12-volt socket.

When charging via solar power, the charging performance naturally depends heavily on the conditions, but in good weather the power station can be fully recharged in just a few hours. An MPPT controller is already integrated, so only an MC4 cable is required.

A suitable car battery charging cable or an MC4 solar charging cable is available directly from DJI for €49 each. All charging options are compatible, and simultaneous charging and discharging are also possible. In addition, there is a UPS mode that switches over in less than 10 ms in the event of a power outage.

DJI Power 1000 Mini: Volume and temperature

The noise level remains low during both charging and discharging. Under light load, the power station is practically inaudible. Only under heavy load or during fast charging do the fans become audible, but even then, they remain mostly in the background. This isn't bothersome in a camper or apartment, but it is noticeable in close proximity.

The temperature situation is similar. Even under heavy load, the case remains moderately warm overall. Most of the heat escapes through the side vents, while the surfaces remain comfortably cool to the touch. Under normal operating conditions, this is not a concern.

DJI Power 1000 Mini: App and operation

Switching the device on, activating the sockets, and controlling the light are all done via a few buttons. The display shows the most important information such as battery level, input and output power, and remaining runtime.

Additionally, there's the DJI Home app (Android and iOS), which allows you to control the power station via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The app provides a clear overview of the current status. You can also switch the outputs on and off, which is especially useful if the power station is in the trunk of a car, for example, while driving.

A few settings can also be adjusted via the app. These include, for example, charging limits, standby times, and charging power. The latter is particularly useful if you want to charge the power station more quietly. Instead of running at 1.000 W, you can also run it at a reduced power level.