Need more power for your GoPro adventures? An external battery is your ticket to longer shooting sessions, ensuring you never miss that epic shot. This guide shows you how and why to choose the right one, keeping your GoPro running when it counts.

External Battery For GoPro: Essential Power, Effortless Shooting

Are you tired of your GoPro battery dying just when the action heats up? It’s a common frustration for anyone who loves capturing their adventures. Whether you’re hiking a mountain, surfing a wave, or shredding a ski slope, a dead battery can mean missed memories. But don’t let limited power hold you back! An external battery for your GoPro is a fantastic solution. It’s like giving your camera a superhero boost, letting you film for much longer without interruption. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to pick the perfect external power source, making sure your GoPro is always ready to roll.

Why You Need an External Battery for Your GoPro

GoPro cameras are amazing for capturing high-action footage, but they tend to be power hungry. The small, built-in batteries are great for quick bursts of recording, but for extended shoots, they just don’t cut it. This is where an external battery comes in, offering a host of benefits:

Extended Recording Time: The most obvious advantage is simply more power. This means you can shoot for hours, even days, on a single charge of your external battery.
Convenience: No more scrambling to find an outlet or swapping out dead batteries in the middle of an activity. Just connect and keep filming.
Versatility: Many external batteries can also charge your phone or other devices, making them a multi-purpose travel essential.
Durability: Some external battery solutions are designed to be rugged and weather-resistant, perfect for harsh conditions where your GoPro thrives.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you have reliable power means you can focus on the moment, not on your battery icon.

Types of External Power Solutions for Your GoPro

When we talk about external power for your GoPro, it’s not just one kind of gadget. There are several options, each with its own strengths. Think of it like choosing the right tool for the job – the best choice depends on your needs.

1. Power Banks (Portable Chargers)

Power banks are perhaps the most popular and versatile external battery option. These are essentially portable batteries that store energy, which you can then use to charge your GoPro (and other USB-powered devices) on the go. They come in a huge range of sizes, capacities, and features.

What to Look for in a Power Bank:

Capacity (mAh): This tells you how much power the power bank can store. Higher mAh means more charges. For a GoPro, look for at least 10,000mAh for significant extra power.
Output Ports: Ensure it has USB-A or USB-C ports that can deliver enough power (voltage and amperage) to charge your GoPro efficiently. Some GoPros charge faster with higher amperage.
Durability: If you’re heading into rough environments, consider a rugged, shockproof, and possibly water-resistant power bank.
Fast Charging Capability: Some power banks support fast charging, which can be a bonus if you need to top up your GoPro quickly.
Weight and Size: Balance capacity with portability. A huge power bank might be too bulky for some activities.

For GoPro charging, you’ll typically use a USB cable. Some power banks have built-in cables, while others require you to use your own. Make sure the power bank’s output is compatible with your GoPro’s charging input. You can find reputable power banks from brands like Anker, RAVPower, and Goal Zero.

2. Dedicated GoPro Battery Packs/Chargers

Some companies make products specifically designed to power GoPros. These can include:

External Battery Backs: These are often cases or attachments that clip onto your GoPro, adding significant battery life. Some are designed to be waterproof.
Multi-Battery Chargers with Power Bank Functionality: Brands like Wasabi Power or Telesin offer chargers that can charge multiple GoPro batteries simultaneously and often have USB ports to act as a power bank for other devices.

These dedicated solutions are often optimized for your specific GoPro model, ensuring compatibility and efficient charging. They can be a great choice if you want a streamlined, integrated power solution.

3. Using Your Car Battery (Indirectly)

While you can’t directly connect your car battery to a GoPro, you can utilize your car’s power system. This typically involves a USB car charger adapter. This is incredibly useful for charging up your GoPro, power bank, or phone while you’re driving to your next adventure spot or during long drives.

Car Charger Adapters:

Multiple Ports: Look for adapters with two or more USB ports so you can charge multiple devices at once.
Fast Charging Support: If your devices and car’s power output support it, get a charger that offers fast charging speeds.
Brand Reputation: Stick with well-known brands (like Anker, RAVPower) for reliability and safety.

This method is excellent for keeping your main power bank topped up or directly charging your GoPro if you’re on a road trip. For more on car batteries, understanding how they work and how to maintain them is crucial for reliable vehicle power. You can learn more about car battery maintenance on resources like AAA’s automotive care section.

4. Adapters and Cables: The Unsung Heroes

Don’t forget the importance of the right adapter and cable! The cable connecting your GoPro to the power source is just as critical as the power source itself. Using a low-quality or incompatible cable can lead to slow charging or even prevent charging altogether.

Cable Considerations:

USB Type: Make sure the cable connector matches your GoPro’s port (usually USB-C or Micro-USB) and your power source’s output port.
Data vs. Charge-Only: Most charging cables are designed for charging, but some cheaper ones might be primarily for data transfer and charge slowly.
Cable Length: A longer cable can be useful if you want to keep your power bank in a pocket or bag while charging your GoPro.
Build Quality: Invest in a sturdy cable that won’t fray easily.

Many power banks come with a USB-C to USB-C or USB-A to Micro-USB cable. If not, you’ll need to ensure you have the correct one. For reliable charging, a good quality USB-C cable from a reputable brand is often recommended.

Choosing the Right External Battery for Your Needs

The “best” external battery for your GoPro isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on how and where you plan to use it.

Scenario 1: The Weekend Warrior (Occasional Hiker/Traveler)

If you’re out shooting for a few hours on a weekend trip, a moderate-capacity power bank (around 10,000mAh to 20,000mAh) is usually sufficient. It’s small enough to fit in a daypack and provides enough juice for multiple GoPro charges and your phone.

Scenario 2: The Adventurer (Multi-Day Trips, Remote Locations)

For longer expeditions where access to charging is limited, you’ll want a high-capacity power bank (20,000mAh and up) or even a solar-charging power bank. Consider ruggedized options that can withstand the elements. A setup that can also charge your phone and other essential electronics is a priority.

Scenario 3: The Action Sports Enthusiast (Constant Use)

If you’re filming intense sports and need a power solution that won’t get in the way, a dedicated battery backpack or a smaller, high-output power bank that can charge while you’re wearing it might be ideal. Look for solutions that offer continuous power without overheating concerns.

Scenario 4: The Road Tripper

For road trips, a reliable car charger adapter is essential. You can use this to keep your GoPro and your primary power bank fully charged whenever the car is running. This ensures you always have power ready for spontaneous stops.

How to Connect and Charge Your GoPro with an External Battery

Connecting your GoPro to an external battery is usually straightforward. Here’s a basic step-by-step guide using a common power bank:

Ensure Both Devices are Charged: Make sure your power bank has a good charge, and if your GoPro’s internal battery is completely dead, it might need a small initial charge to power on, though most can charge from 0%.
Get the Right Cable: Use a high-quality charging cable that fits both your GoPro’s charging port (e.g., USB-C) and one of your power bank’s output ports (usually USB-A or USB-C).
Plug In: Connect one end of the cable to your power bank’s output port and the other end to your GoPro’s charging port.
Start Charging: Your GoPro should indicate that it’s charging. Some power banks have a button you need to press to activate the output.
Keep an Eye on Both: Monitor your GoPro’s charging indicator. Also, be aware that charging will drain your power bank over time.

Some power banks have intelligent charging that automatically detects the connected device and delivers the optimal power. Others might have specific ports for high-power devices.

Safety First: Powering Your GoPro Responsibly

While external batteries are incredibly useful, safety is paramount. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Use Reputable Brands: Always buy power banks, chargers, and adapters from trusted manufacturers. Cheap, unbranded products can be a fire hazard and may damage your devices.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Do not leave your GoPro or its external battery in direct sunlight or a hot car for extended periods. High temperatures can degrade batteries and, in extreme cases, cause them to fail unsafely. For battery care advice, check out resources like the U.S. Department of Energy’s guide on battery safety.
Inspect Regularly: Check your batteries and cables for any signs of damage, swelling, or leaking. If you notice anything unusual, stop using them immediately.
Don’t Overcharge (Generally): Most modern devices and power banks have built-in protection against overcharging. However, it’s still a good practice not to leave devices plugged in unnecessarily for very long periods, especially if they are old or not from reputable brands.
Water and Dust Protection: If you’re using your GoPro in wet or dusty environments, ensure your external battery and its connections are also protected. Consider waterproof cases or pouches.

Power Bank vs. Dedicated GoPro Battery Pack: A Comparison

Here’s a quick look at how a general power bank stacks up against a dedicated GoPro battery solution:

Feature	General Power Bank	Dedicated GoPro Battery Pack/Case
Versatility	Charges GoPros, phones, tablets, etc.	Primarily designed for GoPro.
Capacity Options	Wide range (5,000mAh to 50,000mAh+).	Specific to model, often adds hours of recording.
Form Factor	Portable brick, various sizes.	Often clips on, case-style, or integrated grip.
Integration	Connects via cable.	Can be a direct attachment, seamless fit.
Durability	Varies greatly; ruggedized options available.	Often designed for action sports, can be ruggedized/waterproof.
Ease of Use	Simple plug-and-play via USB.	Snap-on/attach, sometimes a button to activate.
Cost	Varies widely based on brand and capacity.	Can be competitive, sometimes more expensive for integrated features.

Maintaining Your External Batteries

Just like your GoPro’s battery, external batteries need a little care to last longer and perform their best.

Charge Cycles: Lithium-ion batteries (common in power banks) have a finite number of charge cycles. While you can’t avoid using them, try not to drain them completely every single time.
Storage: If you’re storing a power bank for a long time, charge it to about 50-60% capacity. Storing them fully charged or fully depleted for extended periods can degrade their lifespan.
Keep Them Clean: Ensure charging ports on both your power bank and GoPro are free of dust and debris.
Firmware Updates: Some advanced power banks might have firmware that can be updated via a computer. Check the manufacturer’s website occasionally.

Best Practices for Effortless Shooting with External Power

To truly make the most of an external battery, think about how you shoot. Here are some tips:

Pre-Charge Everything: Before heading out, ensure your power bank is fully charged and your GoPro’s internal battery is also topped up.
Cable Management: Keep your charging cable organized. A small pouch or cable tie can prevent tangles and damage.
Monitor Power Levels: Keep an eye on both your GoPro’s battery and your power bank. If your power bank is getting low, switch to charging your phone or unplug it and conserve its remaining power for the GoPro if that’s your priority.
Consider a Grip with Power: Some GoPro-compatible grips have built-in batteries, offering a comfortable way to hold your camera while extending its life.
Document Your Power Needs: Think about a typical day of shooting. How much footage do you capture? How long does your GoPro battery usually last? This will help you determine the capacity you need in an external battery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I charge my GoPro while it’s recording using an external battery?

Yes! Most GoPros can be charged and used simultaneously. This is one of the main benefits of using an external power source. Just connect your GoPro to the power bank, and it should continue to record while drawing power.

Q2: What’s the difference between a power bank and a wall charger?

A wall charger needs to be plugged into a wall outlet to provide power. A power bank is a portable battery that stores electricity, allowing you to charge devices anywhere without needing an outlet.

Q3: How many times can a power bank charge a GoPro?

This depends on the capacity of both the power bank (measured in mAh) and your GoPro’s battery. A 10,000mAh power bank can typically charge a GoPro Hero 8 battery about 2-3 times, while a 20,000mAh power bank could offer 4-6 charges. Always check the specific mAh ratings.

Q4: Is it safe to use third-party external batteries for my GoPro?

For the most part, yes, if you choose reputable brands. Stick to well-known companies like Anker, RAVPower, or those specifically recommended for GoPro accessories. Avoid very cheap, unbranded options, as they may not meet safety standards and could damage your camera.

Q5: Do I need a special cable to charge my GoPro from a power bank?

You need a cable with the correct connectors for both your GoPro and your power bank. Most GoPros use USB-C or Micro-USB. Ensure the cable is designed for charging and data transfer (if needed) and is of good quality for efficient charging.

Q6: Can I charge my power bank using my car’s cigarette lighter?

Yes, you can. You’ll need a USB car charger adapter that plugs into your car’s 12V outlet (cigarette lighter port). This adapter will then provide USB ports to charge your power bank or GoPro directly.

Q7: Will using an external battery void my GoPro’s warranty?

Generally, no. Using any commercially available, reputable power bank or charger via the standard charging port should not void your GoPro’s warranty. However, using damaged accessories or attempting to modify your GoPro’s charging system would likely void it.

Conclusion

Having an external battery for your GoPro fundamentally changes the way you can capture your adventures. It liberates you from the tyranny of a low battery icon