Action Camera Batteries: How Long Do They Last?

The battery life of an action camera varies depending on the brand, model, and usage. Most action cameras have a battery life of around 1-3 hours when recording continuously at 1080p resolution, although some high-end models can last up to 4 hours or more. The battery life is affected by several factors, including the resolution, frame rate, and usage of additional features such as Wi-Fi, GPS, and image stabilization. To extend the battery life, users can turn off the screen, avoid using Wi-Fi, and update the firmware to the latest version. It is also recommended to carry spare batteries or a portable charger when using the camera for extended periods.

Resolution and frame rate: Higher resolution and frame rate consume more power, draining the battery faster

The battery life of an action camera depends on a variety of factors, including the recording resolution and frame rate. A higher resolution and frame rate will generally result in increased power consumption, leading to faster battery drainage.

A 4K recording at 60 frames per second will consume more power than a 1080p recording at 30 frames per second. This is because a higher resolution requires more pixels to be illuminated, and a higher frame rate means more images are displayed per second. Therefore, a combination of a high resolution and high frame rate will result in a more significant drain on the battery.

For example, the GoPro HERO9 Black can record for up to 2.5 hours at 5K resolution, while the DJI Osmo Action can last up to 135 minutes at 1080p resolution. However, it is important to note that battery life can be affected by other factors such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth usage, as well as environmental conditions like temperature and altitude.

To maximise battery life, it is recommended to adjust the resolution and frame rate settings according to your specific needs. Additionally, consider using power-saving modes, carrying spare batteries, or connecting to an external power supply or battery bank.

By understanding the impact of resolution and frame rate on battery life, users can make informed decisions to optimise their action camera's performance and ensure they capture their adventures without constantly worrying about running out of power.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Keeping these on can significantly reduce battery life

The battery life of an action camera can be significantly reduced by keeping Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on. These features consume a lot of power, which can quickly drain the battery, especially when used for streaming live footage or transferring files wirelessly.

When Wi-Fi is turned on, the battery life of an action camera is reduced by 10 to 15 minutes on average. This is because the camera is constantly communicating with nearby devices, such as smartphones or tablets, and this uses up a lot of energy. Streaming live footage or transferring large files will further decrease battery life.

Bluetooth also has a similar effect on battery life. While it doesn't constantly transmit data like Wi-Fi, it still uses a significant amount of power when turned on. This is because Bluetooth is always scanning for nearby devices to connect to. So, even if you're not actively using Bluetooth, it can still drain your battery.

To conserve battery power, it's recommended to turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when they're not in use. Some action cameras have power-saving modes that automatically do this, but it's always good to double-check. Additionally, using a lower resolution and frame rate for recording can also help extend battery life.

Overall, the impact of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on battery life will depend on the specific action camera model and usage. However, in general, keeping these features on will significantly reduce the amount of time your camera can last before needing to be recharged. Therefore, it's important to manage your camera's battery usage and only enable these features when necessary.

Cold weather: Cold temperatures can decrease battery life, so keep the camera warm

When shooting in cold weather, it's important to keep your action camera's battery warm to prevent it from deteriorating much faster than in temperate weather. Here are some tips to help you do that:

Keep the Battery Close to Your Body

Place the battery inside your coat pocket, preferably one that's close to your body heat. This will help keep the battery warm and extend its life. You can also use a small fanny pack next to your body and underneath your outerwear to store the battery. This way, it's easier to locate and you can consistently find it no matter how many layers you have on.

Bring Extra Batteries

It's a good idea to bring more batteries than you think you'll need when shooting in cold weather. Batteries tend to drain faster in low temperatures, no matter how warm you keep them. Having spares ensures you can continue shooting without interruption.

Avoid Rapid Warming

If your batteries are freezing cold, avoid the temptation to warm them up quickly by placing them too close to a heat source like a fire or heater. This can damage the battery permanently. Instead, warm them slowly using body temperature or by placing them in a warm room.

Use Hand Warmers

Inexpensive hand warmers can be a great way to keep your batteries warm. Keep them in your pocket along with your batteries, or tape them to the side of your camera if you only have one battery. This will provide a consistent source of warmth and help extend battery life.

Recharge at Night

If you're on a camping trip or in a location without easy access to power sources, consider recharging your batteries at night. Place them inside your sleeping bag, where they'll stay warm and be ready for use the next morning.

Know Your Camera

Different cameras may exhibit varying performance in cold weather. Some batteries may drain faster than others, so it's essential to be aware of how your specific camera model handles the cold. This knowledge will help you prepare accordingly.

Battery type: Lithium-ion batteries last longer than NiMH batteries and are more commonly used

When choosing a battery for your action camera, it's important to consider the battery type, as this will impact the camera's performance and longevity. Lithium-ion batteries are a popular choice for many electronic devices, including action cameras, due to their high energy density and long-lasting nature. Here's why Lithium-ion batteries are a better choice than NiMH batteries for your action camera:

Higher Energy Density

Lithium-ion batteries offer a significant advantage over NiMH batteries in terms of energy density. They can store more energy in a smaller space, making them ideal for action cameras that need to be compact and lightweight. This high energy density also translates to longer battery life, allowing you to capture more footage without worrying about frequent recharging.

No Memory Effect

One of the drawbacks of NiMH batteries is the "memory effect". This occurs when NiMH batteries don't get fully charged after each use, causing them to potentially only charge up to the last highest charge. This issue can shorten the lifespan of the battery and affect the overall performance of your action camera. Lithium-ion batteries, on the other hand, do not suffer from this memory effect, ensuring consistent and reliable charging.

Better Performance in Moderate Temperatures

While NiMH batteries are known to operate well in moderate temperature ranges, typically between -5 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit, Lithium-ion batteries offer more versatility. They are less susceptible to temperature extremes and can operate in a wider range of conditions. This is especially important if you plan to use your action camera in varying environments, such as skiing in cold weather or filming in hot, sunny locations.

Higher Capacity

Lithium-ion batteries generally offer higher capacity than NiMH batteries. This means they can store more charge, resulting in longer battery life. This is particularly advantageous for action cameras, as it allows you to capture more footage and enjoy uninterrupted use for extended periods.

Safer and More Environmentally Friendly

When it comes to safety and environmental considerations, Lithium-ion batteries have the upper hand. NiMH batteries are heavier and more prone to thermal runaway, which can be a safety concern. Lithium-ion batteries, on the other hand, are safer to dispose of and do not contaminate water supplies. They also have a better safety record and are less likely to experience issues like weak-cell syndrome, where the battery dies immediately after charging.

In summary, Lithium-ion batteries offer superior performance, longevity, and safety compared to NiMH batteries. They are a more modern and efficient choice for powering your action camera, ensuring you can capture all the moments that matter without worrying about battery life.

LCD screen: The LCD screen consumes a lot of power, so turning it off can extend battery life

The LCD screen on an action camera can be a major drain on the device's battery life. This is because the screen consumes a lot of power, reducing the amount of time the camera can be used for before needing to be recharged or swapped out for a spare battery. Therefore, if you want to extend the battery life of your action camera, turning off the LCD screen is a good idea.

For newer action cameras, the LCD screen is often the primary way to control the device. Examples of cameras with this feature include the DJI Osmo Action, the GoPro HERO 9, and newer models. These cameras may also have a second screen on the front, which can be turned off to extend battery life further.

If you're using a compact camera, it may not be possible to turn off the LCD screen completely. In this case, you can try reducing the screen's brightness or enabling power-saving options in the camera's settings. These options are usually found in the camera's menus and can include sleep modes and LCD brightness adjustments.

It's worth noting that turning off the LCD screen may not be the only way to extend your action camera's battery life. Other power-saving measures include updating the camera's firmware, recording in a lower resolution, turning off Wi-Fi and other connectivity features, using power-saving mode, avoiding unnecessary features like image stabilization, and keeping the camera within a moderate temperature range. Additionally, you can consider using a higher-capacity battery or an external power source, such as a power bank or AC adapter.

By following these tips and optimising your camera's settings, you can extend the battery life of your action camera and capture more footage before needing to recharge or replace the battery.

Frequently asked questions