How to Charge GoPro Battery & Camera: 4 Ways (All Models) 7 Charging Tips
GoPro batteries will typically last less than 2 hours. If you’re out for an adventure, that probably won’t cut it. In this post, you’ll learn how to charge a GoPro battery – both in-camera and with an external charger. Plus the average GoPro charging time, tips for faster charging, and the best gear to charge your camera on the go.
You can charge your GoPro with the battery in-camera (via USB cable) or with an external charger. The best way to charge your GoPro battery is with an external charger. With this method, you can use your GoPro while charging your dead battery. You’ll need an external charger and a spare battery.
4 Steps to Charge Your GoPro
How do you charge a GoPro? Here are the basic steps to get your battery charged back up.
- Turn off your GoPro: This includes turning off voice activation. This will allow your camera to recharge much faster.
- Remove any accessories: BacPac, MediaMod, etc.
- Connect to power source: Choose from one of the charging methods below.
- Watch for light to indicate charging: Watch for red LED light to indicate charging (in-camera). The red light will turn off to indicate charging is complete. If charging with an external charger, the indicator light color will vary.
Two Methods to Charge GoPro Camera Battery
There are 2 primary ways to charge your GoPro camera:
- With the battery in-camera (with a USB cable)
- With an external charger (battery outside of camera)
Here’s what you need to know about each GoPro charging method.
1. Charge GoPro Battery In-Camera (No Charger)
Charging with just a USB cable is the method most GoPro users will use. It doesn’t require any additional gear.
With just what is shipped in your box (camera, battery, and USB cable) you can charge your battery. Using your USB cable, you can easily charge your battery and get back to shooting.
Before charging your GoPro camera, don’t forget to power it OFF. It will take longer to charge if it’s powered on.
Here are 4 power sources for USB charging your GoPro camera.
- Charge via wall plug: You’ll need a USB adapter to plug your USB cable into. You’ll want to use an adapter that outputs at least 5V 2A. This one by Anker will do the trick. Some powerbars come with USB outlets, so you might not need an additional adapter.
- Charge via power bank: This is the most convenient way to charge your GoPro battery in-camera. You don’t need to be tethered to the wall or computer. Just plug in and set it on your picnic table or in your backpack. This 10,000mAh Anker powerbank will charge your GoPro 5 times.
- Charge via computer: You can plug your GoPro into your computer USB port to charge it. It’s best to plug directly into your computer, avoiding USB hubs (unless they are powered with AC). Make sure that your USB port is powered when your computer off. Here’s how to change your USB port power settings in Device Manager (Windows).
- Charge via USB outlet in your car: Most cars come with USB ports. But most are just 5W – not enough to fast charge your camera. Check your user manual to see if this is an option in your car. You’re looking for at least 5V 2A. Not your fastest option, but will still get the trick done.
Can I charge my GoPro camera without a charger?
There are 4 ways to charge your GoPro without a charger. Each method requires that you have your USB cable. You can use a wall adapter, power bank, computer, or USB outlet in a car.
2. Charge GoPro Battery With External Charger
Using an external charger costs a little more, but it’s much more convenient.
You don’t need to use your camera as the charger – so you can drop in another battery and keep shooting while charging your dead battery.
Here are 4 power sources for charging your GoPro battery with an external charger.
- Charge via wall plug: This is the most obvious and is a great option the day before a trip. This dual battery charger by GoPro is reliable and comes with a spare battery.
- Charge via power bank: If your GoPro charger comes with USB port for power, you can connect that to a powerbank for charging.
- Charge via USB outlet in your car: This is convientent while traveling. Even if it’s slow, at least it’s charging between stops. And if your car has a fast charge USB port, even better.
- Charge via computer: This isn’t the best option. It will likely charge slowly, unless you have a fast charge port. But if this is your only option, it will work.
For best results, we recommend charging within the ideal GoPro operating temperatures.
7 GoPro Charging Tips
The Best Way to Charge Your GoPro Battery
The best way to charge your GoPro battery is with an external charger. This allows you to continue to use your GoPro while your dead battery is being recharged. This will require a wall charger and a spare battery.
What Voltage is Required for Charging GoPro?
To properly charge your GoPro, you need a port with 5V 2A output. This is true for all models since the Hero5. For faster charging, choose an adapter/charger with 5V 3A.
If you are charging the much older Hero3 or Hero4 cameras, 5V 1A port will do fine.
What About Solar Power for GoPro Charging?
Solar panel charging is an option for charging your GoPro battery. I’ve done that while camping.
But I don’t recommend it.
In my opinion, it’s better to first charge a power bank with solar panels. Then use those power banks to charge your camera. This power is cleaner and it will charge faster.
A few years ago, I tested solar charging my GoPro. It worked surprisingly well.
How Long Does a GoPro Take to Charge?
It can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to charge a GoPro, depending on the method.
How Long do GoPro Batteries Last?
GoPro batteries will typically last 1.5 to 2 hours. Here is the full summary for each model.
Can I Record While Charging My GoPro?
GoPro cameras can’t charge and record at the same time. While you can direct power your GoPro for an endless power supply (for time-lapses and live stream) the battery won’t charge during this time.
To charge your GoPro, you’ll have to stop recording. It is recommended to turn off your camera for the fastest charging.
What Charging Cable Does My GoPro Use?
GoPro has used three types of USB cables over the years: USB-C, Micro USB, and Mini USB.
If you have a new GoPro, you’ll need a USB-C cable.
Every model – from the latest Hero10 Black back to the Hero5 (Black and Session) – use the USB-C cable for charging and data transfer.
If you have an older model, you might need a Micro USB or Mini USB cable. Check out our GoPro Charging Cable Guide for all the details.
Gear for Charging GoPro Cameras
How many cables do you need? I recommend at least two. Have one for your home office and another to put in your gear back or car.
You don’t require much gear to keep your GoPro batteries all charged up. But there are a few key things that will make it easier.
Especially if you want to charge your cameras on the go.
- USB Cables: You’ll likely be using a USB-C cable. If you misplaced yours, this one by Anker will do the trick (USB-C to USB 3.0). And here’s a great USB-C to USB-C cable option.
- External Charger: If you don’t always want to charge your battery inside your GoPro, you should consider picking up an external charger. The specific charger you’ll need is dependent on which GoPro camera you own. You can choose from either GoPro or aftermarket battery chargers.
- Power Bank: I like to keep a power bank in my pack, so I can toss a spent battery on to charge while we’re using the other battery. I’m a big fan of Anker products, like this lightweight 10,000mAh power bank.
- Extra Batteries: Because GoPro batteries don’t last a super long time, it’s a good idea to own at least two. You can choose from either GoPro or another brand. We haven’t seen much difference in quality between brands – they all seem good. And the off-brand batteries are much cheaper.
- USB Hub: If you’re like me, and spend lots of time in front of the computer, you should consider a USB hub. A USB hub with data and charging ports means that you can fast charge your camera and upload your footage at the same time. Make sure you choose a model with AC power (wall plug) and not just a USB connection.
More reading: See our full guide to GoPro battery compatibility.
GoPro Charging Guide: All Models
While most models are the same, there are some variances between GoPro camera charging methods.
How to Charge GoPro Hero12 Black
- USB Cable: USB-C
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 1720mAh SPBL1B (ADBAT-011)
- Charging Times: 2 hours with a sufficiently powered charger
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 2A output
How to Charge GoPro Hero11
- USB Cable: USB-C
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 1720mAh SPBL1B (ADBAT-011)
- Charging Times: 2 hours with a sufficiently powered charger
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 2A output
How to Charge GoPro Hero10
- USB Cable: USB-C
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 1720mAh SPBL1B (ADBAT-011)
- Charging Times: 2 hours with a sufficiently powered charger
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 2A output
How to Charge GoPro Hero9
- USB Cable: USB-C
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 1720mAh (SPBL1B)
- Charging Times: 2 hours with a sufficiently powered charger
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 2A output
How to Charge GoPro Hero8
- USB Cable: USB-C
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 1220mAh (AJBAT-001)
- Charging Times: 2 hours with a sufficiently powered charger
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 2A output
How to Charge GoPro Max (360)
- USB Cable: USB-C
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 1600mAh (ACBAT-001)
- Charging Times: 2 hours with a sufficiently powered charger
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 2A output
Learn more about the GoPro Max battery.
How to Charge GoPro Hero7
- USB Cable: USB-C
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 1220mAh (AJBAT-001)
- Charging Times: 2 hours with a sufficiently powered charger
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 2A output
How to Charge GoPro Hero (2018)
- USB Cable: USB-C
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 1220mAh (AJBAT-001)
- Charging Times: 2 hours with a sufficiently powered charger
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 2A output
How to Charge GoPro Fusion (360)
- USB Cable: USB-C
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 2620mAh (ASBBA-001)
- Charging Times: 2 to 3.5 hours, depending on power source
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 2A output
How to Charge GoPro Hero6
- USB Cable: USB-C
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 1220mAh (AJBAT-001)
- Charging Times: 2 hours with a sufficiently powered charger
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 2A output
How to Charge GoPro Hero5
- USB Cable: USB-C
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 1220mAh (AJBAT-001)
- Charging Times: 2 hours with a sufficiently powered charger
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 2A output
How to Charge GoPro Hero4
- USB Cable: Mini-USB
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 1160mAh (AHBBP-401)
- Charging Times: 2 hours with a sufficiently powered charger
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 1A output
How to Charge GoPro Hero3
- USB Cable: Mini-USB
- Charging Methods: In-camera, external charger
- Compatible Battery: 1050mAh (AHDBT-301, AHDBT-302)
- Charging Times: 2 hours with a sufficiently powered charger
- Recommended Voltage: 5V 1A output
Models not included in this list: Session (Hero5, Hero4) and Hero+, and Hero (2014). These have non-removable batteries. The only charging option for these cameras is via the supplied USB cable.
More reading: GoPro Not Charging? Try these 7 things
Here are 6 ways to improve GoPro recording time.
A dead battery is one reason your GoPro might be dead. Here’s how to fix a GoPro that won’t turn on.
Your Turn
Have a question about charging your GoPro camera or battery? Let me know your questions and tips below!
Aloha!
Thinking about buying my first GoPro, the 10, and can’t find the answer to this question: how long do the batteries hold a charge when not in use? I fear the following scenario: charging batteries the day before, next day taking a couple of hours to get to where I want to shoot, and then having dead batteries. Is this what people are complaining about and if so, how to avoid?
Mahalo for your time,
Jenny