How to Charge a GoPro Camera: Complete Guide 2025
Dead GoPro batteries happen at the worst times. Mid-hike, during perfect lighting, or when you finally nail that trick you've been practicing.
The solution is simple - always have a charging plan. This guide introduces 3 practical charging methods to solve the problem of how to charge a GoPro. Let your GoPro last longer no matter the situation.
How to Charge a GoPro Camera: 3 Effective Ways
Here are three charging methods that work with most GoPro models. Pick the one that fits your situation and available equipment.
1. Plug It into a Wall Adapter Using a USB Cable
Most people choose this method to charge their GoPro because it is simple and easy to use. And it can be used anywhere there is a power outlet.
Step 1. Connect the GoPro's USB cable to the wall adapter. Most new GoPros use a USB-C cable, while older models require a Mini-USB or Micro-USB cable.
Step 2. Find the camera's charging port. It is usually behind a small door on the side.
Step 3. Plug the cable into the camera's charging port. Make sure it is firmly inserted to avoid power loss.
Step 4. Check the LED indicator. Red means charging, and green means completion.
This is the most convenient method for home use. Almost everyone has a wall adapter, and you don't need to buy extra equipment. The downside is you can only charge one battery at a time.
2. Charge via the Dual Battery Charger
If you need to charge multiple batteries at the same time, the dual charger is very useful. It’s especially handy when you need backup batteries or when you shoot for a long time.
Step 1. Take out the battery from your GoPro. Open the battery door and remove it.
Step 2. Put both batteries into the charger slots. You will hear a click sound when they are in the right position.
Step 3. Connect the charger's USB cable to a power source. You can use a wall adapter or a computer.
Step 4. Look at the LED lights. Each battery has its own charging light to show progress.
This way is great for people who use multiple batteries. You can have backup batteries ready while you are still filming. The dual charger is also small and easy to carry when you travel.
3. Use a Power Bank or Portable Power Station
Power banks or a portable power station are very helpful when you cannot find a wall outlet, like during camping trips, hikes, or when you need to shoot for a long time.
Step 1. Choose a power bank that has enough power. You should look for at least 2.4A output and 20,000mAh capacity.
Step 2. Use the correct USB cable to connect your GoPro to the power bank.
Step 3. If you are recording video, keep your internal battery inside the camera. This way, you can charge the camera without stopping the video.
Step 4. Check both battery levels. You need to watch your GoPro battery and the power bank battery to ensure you don’t run out of power while recording.
This method gives you the most freedom. You can film anywhere without worrying about finding power outlets. Plus, portable power stations are also a good helper when you need to charge laptop phone camping.
How Long Does It Take to Fully Charge a GoPro Battery?
The charging time depends on which method you choose. Here is how long each method takes.
USB wall adapter: A full charge takes about 2 hours. You can get around 80% charge in just 1 hour, which is often enough for most shoots. GoPro’s SuperCharger can speed this up by 20–70%.
Dual battery charger: This also takes about 2 hours per battery. However, since it charges two batteries at once, it’s more convenient when you have multiple batteries to keep ready.
Power bank or portable power station: The charging time depends on your power bank or power station’s output. A high-quality option like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Portable Power Station offers a 300W rated output (with X-Boost up to 600W) and can charge your GoPro as fast as a wall charger, reaching 80% in around an hour. Lower-output power banks, however, will charge your GoPro more slowly.
Some other factors can affect charging time. New batteries charge faster than old ones. GoPro's Enduro batteries are about 13% faster than standard batteries. Cold weather makes all charging slower, so room temperature works best.
EcoFlow RIVER 3 Portable Power Station
Best Practices to Extend GoPro Battery Life
Good charging habits and camera settings can make your battery last longer. This means you spend less time charging and more time filming. Here are some tips:
Change your camera settings based on what you want to shoot. Lower resolution and frame rates use less battery power. Higher settings will drain the battery very fast. GoPro's Video Performance Modes can choose the right settings for you automatically.
Turn off features you don't need like WiFi, GPS, and voice control. WiFi uses battery power even when the camera is turned off, so you should disable it. You can also make your screen less bright to save power.
Remove extra accessories before you start charging. Some power-related accessories can make charging harder. It is better to keep things simple.
Avoid extreme temperatures when storing or charging. High heat can damage battery health, while cold conditions can reduce performance. If you often shoot in cold weather, consider using Enduro batteries, as they maintain power and last longer compared to standard GoPro batteries.
Use external power smartly for long recording sessions. Removing the internal battery can help reduce heat during extended shoots. However, without the internal battery, you won’t be able to swap power sources while recording, so plan your setup in advance.
Store batteries at half charge when you don't use your GoPro for weeks. This is better for battery health than storing them completely full or completely empty.
Conclusion
So, how do you charge a GoPro? There are three main ways. USB wall charging is good for daily use. Dual chargers can handle multiple batteries quickly. Power banks and portable stations are helpful when you are away from home.
Each method suits different situations, so choose based on your shooting style and available power sources. Good battery habits, like adjusting settings, turning off unused features, and storing batteries properly, also help keep your GoPro ready whenever you need it.
FAQ
Where is the GoPro charging port?
Most modern GoPro models feature a USB-C charging port, which is located behind a small flap on the side of the camera. This flap is designed to protect the port from dust and moisture when not in use.
Older GoPro models, like the Hero 3 or Hero 4, use a Mini-USB or Micro-USB port in the same general area. Always make sure the camera is powered off before plugging in the cable for safe and efficient charging.
How do you know if a GoPro battery is charging?
GoPro cameras use LED indicators and screen icons to show charging status. When the camera is charging, you’ll see a solid or flashing red light, or a charging icon on the display. Once the battery is fully charged, the red light turns off, or you’ll see a green light or a “100%” battery symbol on the screen. Some newer models also display the exact percentage of charge, making it easy to know when the battery is ready.
How do I charge a GoPro when I’m off the grid?
When you’re away from standard power outlets, you can use a power bank, solar charger, or a portable power station. For best results, choose a power bank with at least 20,000mAh capacity and a 2.4A output to ensure efficient charging.
Portable power stations, like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Portable Power Station, can charge multiple devices at once and provide fast charging similar to wall outlets. Pairing a power bank with solar panels can also keep your GoPro powered during long outdoor adventures.