The DJI Power 1000 portable power station, along with its game-changing 1kW Super Fast Car Charger and 248W expansion battery, offers a significant leap in portable power capabilities. This review delves into the performance, functionality, and overall user experience of this innovative system, examining its impressive power output, modular design, and convenient charging solutions. We explore the ease of setup, the significant capacity boost provided by the expansion battery, and the effectiveness of the high-speed car charger.This in-depth analysis covers real-world testing with demanding appliances, firmware update processes, and potential limitations discovered during our evaluation. We assess the system's performance under stress, examining its stability and power delivery when multiple high-power devices are used concurrently. Ultimately, we determine the DJI Power 1000's suitability for various power-intensive applications and provide a comprehensive overview of its strengths and weaknesses.
Pros And Cons
- Can output up to 2200 watts without expansion battery, 2400 watts with expansion battery.
- Modular design allows for expansion with up to five 248-watt expansion batteries.
- Expansion battery increases continuous output by 200 watts and recharging power by up to 300 watts.
- Expansion battery is the same size as the main unit and weighs only 36 lbs.
- Can be charged from solar power.
- Can be updated via USB-C port using the DJI Assistant app.
- Initial update process had reported error issues; resolved by plugging in AC cable during update.
- Lower output port does not currently output power to adapters or allow use of the XT60 output connector.
- Expansion battery cannot be used independently; it must be connected to the main unit.
- Fast recharging from vehicle.
- Aluminum housing with internal fan for cooling.
- Adjustable charge rate via app.
- Can reverse charge, feeding power to a vehicle battery.
- Automatically adjusts charge rate based on vehicle output and set minimum voltage.
- Requires a separate dongle for charging above 500 watts.
- Voltage display not available when connected to expansion battery.
- Increases continuous output power of DJI Power 1000.
- Increases recharge power of DJI Power 1000.
- Same size as main unit, lightweight.
- Increases charge rate of main unit.
- Cannot be used independently; must be connected to the main unit.
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Unboxing and Initial Impressions
The DJI Power 1000, along with its 1kW Super Fast Car Charger and 248W expansion battery, arrived. The initial setup was straightforward: plug the charger into the Power 1000, then connect the expansion battery. The combined input power was impressive, exceeding expectations.
The compact form factor of both the main unit and expansion battery is notable. Their similar dimensions facilitate easy stacking and transport. The expansion battery adds substantial capacity, increasing the power station’s versatility.
Expansion Battery Performance and Capabilities
Adding the 248W expansion battery provides a significant boost in both continuous output (200W more) and recharge power (up to 300W more). This modular design allows for expansion with up to five batteries.
The daisy-chain connection method is simple and efficient, connecting the batteries in series from top to bottom input/output. With five expansion batteries, you'd achieve a total of 11,264Wh, offering immense power capacity for various applications.
Firmware Updates and Connectivity
Firmware updates require a computer connection and the DJI Assistant app. The process involves holding down the AC and power buttons to enter update mode, then initiating the update through the USB-C port.
Initial update attempts encountered error codes. Successfully completing the update required a plugged-in AC adapter. A Wi-Fi dongle accessory enables future wireless updates and remote control via the app.
Port Limitations and Accessory Considerations
The lower output port currently lacks functionality for certain adapters. It does not output power to 12V DC fast-charged drones or the XT60 output connector. Solar charging is possible via the lower port only when the expansion battery is connected.
The expansion battery itself requires connection to the main unit to operate. To use 12V output when the expansion battery is attached, the Wi-Fi dongle needs to be removed and the 12V adapter plugged in.
Real-World Testing and Performance
Real-world testing involved using an air fryer, induction cooktop, and other appliances. With the expansion battery, the DJI Power 1000 consistently delivered up to 2400W of continuous power.
The system maintained a stable output even while running multiple high-power devices concurrently. The expansion battery contributed approximately 1600W to the total output during the test.
Charging from Alternative Sources
The 1kW Super Fast Car Charger allows charging from a vehicle's power outlet. Testing with a 2007 Honda CRV yielded impressive results, achieving a significant charge rate.
Using a deep-cycle battery showed the charger's adaptability and the app's ability to dynamically adjust the charge rate to protect battery voltage. The system demonstrated intelligent power management.
Conclusion and Overall Assessment
The DJI Power 1000, with the 1kW Super Fast Car Charger and expansion battery, presents a powerful and versatile portable power solution. The modular design and high output capacity make it suitable for various power-demanding applications.
The expansion battery significantly enhances the main unit's capabilities. Features like automatic charge rate adjustment and the internal fan in the car charger add value. Despite some minor firmware update issues, this system proves reliable and robust.