How to Charge Your GoPro Camera and Batteries

This article explains how to charge a GoPro Hero 5 Black Edition camera and GoPro batteries. The process is similar for other GoPro cameras but may be different for older models.

Charging With the Battery Outside the Camera

Aftermarket chargers are available for many GoPro models. Many support charging two batteries at once. Purchase an extra battery so that you always have one with a full charge.

To charge a GoPro battery with a charging device, remove the battery from the camera. This procedure depends on the camera model. For example, for a GoPro Hero 5 Black Edition, follow these steps:

1. Locate the button on the bottom panel.

2. Press the button and slide the door to the side.

3. Swing the door out to reveal the battery.

4. Remove the battery by pulling on the attached plastic strip.

5. Once the battery is removed, insert it into the charging cradle and plug the cradle into either a wall adapter or computer.

   It takes about two to four hours to go from empty to full. Most cradles have lights to indicate the charging status. Red indicates the battery is charging, and green indicates a fully charged battery.

6. Once the battery indicator turns green, pull the battery from the charger and insert it into the GoPro. You're ready for your close up!

Charging With the Battery Inside the Camera

It's easy to charge a GoPro battery while it's inside the camera. You need a cable to go from the camera to either a computer or a wall outlet.

To charge the battery from a wall outlet, you need an adapter that allows you to plug the USB cable into a standard outlet (similar to what you use for a smartphone).

USB Cables

The type of USB cable you need depends on the GoPro model. Here's a list of cables that various GoPro models use.

These models are compatible with USB-C:

• GoPro Max
• GoPro HERO8 Black
• GoPro HERO7 Black
• GoPro HERO7 Silver
• GoPro HERO7 White
• GoPro Fusion
• GoPro HERO (2018)
• GoPro HERO6 Black
• GoPro HERO5 Black
• GoPro HERO5 Session

These models are compatible with Micro-USB B:

• GoPro HERO Session
• GoPro HERO4 Session

These models are compatible with Mini-USB (USB Mini-B 5 pin):

• GoPro HERO4 Black
• GoPro HERO4 Silver
• GoPro HERO3+
• GoPro HERO3
• GoPro HERO+ LCD
• GoPro HERO+
• GoPro HERO (2014)
• GoPro HD HERO2
• GoPro HD HERO Original

Plugging in the Cable

Where the cable plugs in depends on the GoPro model. For example, the GoPro Hero 5 Black Edition includes a USB-C connection on the side (under a removable door). Plug the USB-C cable into this connection, and then plug the other end into either your computer or an adapter for a wall outlet.

Charging Your GoPro

GoPro models with touchscreens, such as the GoPro Hero 5 Black Edition, report the battery's charge percentage during charging. Once the indicator shows 100 percent, it's time to unplug and film.

Older cameras may not have this ability. Generally, with a standard wall outlet, charging a battery from empty to full takes about two hours. If you use a desktop or laptop to charge the battery, going from empty to full can take up to four hours.