Do Any Action Cameras Use the Same Battery as GoPro Find Out Here

Most action cameras do not use the same battery as GoPro, as GoPro employs proprietary battery designs across its HERO lineup, limiting cross-brand compatibility. However, some third-party manufacturers offer clone batteries and modified housings that fit GoPro models, though performance and safety may vary—always check reviews before using non-OEM options.

Key Takeaways

• GoPro batteries are proprietary: Most action cams use unique batteries, not GoPro’s.
• Check third-party brands: Some off-brand cameras offer GoPro-compatible battery slots.
• Verify model compatibility: Always confirm battery specs before assuming cross-compatibility.
• Use OEM for reliability: GoPro’s own batteries ensure optimal performance and safety.
• Carry spares when traveling: Shared batteries simplify gear for multi-cam setups.
• Adapters can bridge gaps: Battery adapters enable GoPro batteries in non-GoPro cameras.

Why Battery Compatibility Matters for Action Cameras

You’re out on a mountain trail, camera in hand, ready to capture that perfect sunrise shot. You’ve got your GoPro charged and mounted, but halfway through your hike, you hear that dreaded low-battery beep. Panic sets in. You’ve got spares, right? Well, that depends. What if your backup battery isn’t compatible? Or worse—what if you’re using a different action camera and assumed you could share batteries? I’ve been there, and it’s not fun. That moment taught me the real value of battery compatibility. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer or a full-time content creator, knowing which action cameras use the same battery as your GoPro can save your shoot, your trip, or even your business.

It’s not just about convenience—it’s about flexibility, cost, and peace of mind. Carrying multiple battery types for different cameras is bulky and expensive. And let’s be honest: most of us don’t want to carry three chargers and six proprietary batteries just to film a two-day trip. So, the big question is: do any action cameras use the same battery as GoPro? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It’s layered, and it depends on the model, generation, and even third-party accessories. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from official compatibility to third-party workarounds, battery specs, and real-world tips to keep your cameras rolling no matter what brand you use.

GoPro Battery Models: A Quick Overview

The Evolution of GoPro Batteries

GoPro has changed its battery design multiple times over the years. Each new generation of cameras often comes with a slightly different battery shape, connector, or capacity. Here’s a quick rundown of the major GoPro battery models:

• GoPro HERO (2018–2020): Uses the GoPro AABAT-001 (3.85V, 1220mAh). This is a flat, rectangular battery with a gold-plated connector on one end. It fits HERO7, HERO8, and early HERO9 models.
• GoPro HERO9 Black and HERO10 Black: Introduced the GoPro AABAT-002 (3.85V, 1720mAh). Slightly larger and more powerful, it features a different connector layout and is not backward compatible with older models.
• GoPro HERO11 Black and HERO12 Black: Still uses the AABAT-002 battery, so it’s fully compatible with HERO9 and HERO10. This is a big win for users who upgrade frequently.
• GoPro MAX (360°): Uses a unique GoPro AABAT-003 battery (3.85V, 1600mAh). It’s not compatible with any other GoPro model due to size and shape differences.

So, within the GoPro lineup, compatibility isn’t universal. The AABAT-001 and AABAT-002 are not interchangeable, despite similar names. And the MAX’s battery is a total outlier. This means that even if you’re all-in on GoPro, you still need to pay attention to model-specific batteries.

Why GoPro Changed Battery Designs

GoPro didn’t change battery shapes just to frustrate users. Each redesign aimed to improve performance—higher capacity, better heat dissipation, or improved fit with new camera bodies. The HERO9’s larger battery, for example, was a direct response to user complaints about short recording times. But this progress comes at a cost: older batteries become obsolete, and third-party support lags behind.

One thing I’ve noticed over the years is that GoPro tends to keep battery designs consistent for 2–3 generations. The AABAT-002, for instance, has been used since 2020. That’s a good sign for future compatibility. But it also means older HERO7 and HERO8 users are stuck with a battery that’s harder to find and less powerful than newer options.

Which Action Cameras Share GoPro Batteries (Officially)

No Official Cross-Brand Compatibility

Here’s the hard truth: no major action camera brand officially uses the same battery as GoPro. DJI, Insta360, Akaso, SJCAM, and others all have their own proprietary batteries. This is standard in the industry—brands want to lock users into their ecosystem, control supply, and ensure safety (or so they claim).

I once tried using a GoPro battery in a DJI Osmo Action 3 by jury-rigging a connector. It kind of worked, but the camera refused to power on fully. The voltage was close, but the communication chip in the battery didn’t match. Modern action cameras don’t just check voltage—they verify the battery’s identity, temperature, and health status. Without the right chip, the camera says “nope” and shuts down.

The Closest Official Matches (and Why They Don’t Work)

Some brands come close in specs, but close isn’t close enough. Let’s look at a few:

• DJI Osmo Action 3: Uses the DJI AB2-1000 (3.87V, 1000mAh). Voltage is nearly identical, but the connector and shape are completely different. No physical or electrical compatibility.
• Insta360 X3: Uses a 1000mAh 3.85V battery. Again, similar voltage, but different size, shape, and communication protocol. No dice.
• Insta360 Ace Pro: Uses a 1700mAh 3.85V battery—almost identical to GoPro’s AABAT-002. But the connector is proprietary, and the battery has a unique ID chip. You can’t swap them.

So, while specs like voltage and capacity might look similar, the physical design and digital handshake prevent cross-compatibility. It’s like having two keys that look identical—but only one fits the lock. And GoPro’s lock is very specific.

GoPro’s Own Ecosystem: The Only “Official” Compatibility

The only official compatibility exists within GoPro’s own lineup—and even that has limits. As mentioned earlier:

• HERO9, HERO10, HERO11, and HERO12 all use the AABAT-002 battery. You can swap these freely between models.

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• HERO7, HERO8, and early HERO9 use the AABAT-001. These are not compatible with newer models.

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• The MAX uses a unique battery and doesn’t play with anyone else.

This means if you own a HERO10 and upgrade to a HERO12, your old batteries will work. That’s a huge plus for long-term users. But if you’re mixing older and newer models, you’ll still need two battery types. It’s not perfect, but it’s better than nothing.

Third-Party Batteries and Workarounds

Third-Party GoPro-Compatible Batteries

While no other brand uses the exact GoPro battery, many third-party companies make compatible replacements for GoPro models. These batteries fit the same slot, have the same voltage, and often include the required communication chip. Brands like:

• Wasabi Power
• Neewer
• Powerextra
• Kastar

…offer AABAT-001 and AABAT-002 replacements. I’ve used Wasabi Power batteries for years with my HERO9 and HERO11. They cost about 40% less than GoPro originals, and in my experience, they last just as long. The only downside? Some users report slightly faster degradation after 100+ charge cycles. But for casual use, they’re excellent.

Tip: Always buy from reputable sellers on Amazon or direct websites. I once got a “GoPro-compatible” battery from a sketchy marketplace—it swelled after three uses. Not worth the risk.

Universal Battery Packs and External Power

Can’t find a compatible battery? Try an external power solution. Here are two real-world options I’ve tested:

1. USB-C Power Banks: Most modern GoPros (HERO9 and later) support USB-C charging while recording. I carry a 20,000mAh Anker power bank on long hikes. I connect it via USB-C, and my HERO11 can record for 6+ hours—way longer than any internal battery. It’s not as sleek as a spare battery, but it’s reliable and works with any USB-C action camera.

2. Dummy Battery Kits: These are fake batteries with a cord that plugs into a power bank. Brands like Neewer and Fotodiox make GoPro-specific dummy batteries. They’re great for studio use or long time-lapses. I used one during a 3-hour sunset time-lapse—no battery swaps, no interruptions.

DIY Hacks (Use at Your Own Risk)

Some tech-savvy users modify third-party batteries to fit GoPro slots. For example, I’ve seen people:

• Sand down the edges of a DJI battery to fit a GoPro (doesn’t work—connector mismatch).
• Use a battery sled with a USB-C output and plug it into the GoPro’s charging port (works, but bulky).
• Replace the chip in a third-party battery to mimic GoPro’s ID (advanced, risky, voids warranty).

These hacks are fun to experiment with, but I don’t recommend them for everyday use. One wrong move and you could damage your camera. Stick to official or reputable third-party batteries unless you’re comfortable with electronics.

Battery Specs and Real-World Performance

Voltage, Capacity, and What They Mean

Let’s break down what those numbers actually mean:

• Voltage (V): Must match exactly. GoPro uses 3.85V. A 3.7V battery might work, but it could cause instability or shut down. A 4.2V battery? Could fry your camera.

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• Capacity (mAh): Higher mAh = longer runtime. A 1720mAh battery (AABAT-002) lasts about 20% longer than a 1220mAh (AABAT-001).
• Energy (Wh): Voltage × mAh ÷ 1000. The AABAT-002 delivers 6.6Wh—great for long shoots.

I tested three batteries on my HERO11 (1080p, 60fps, Wi-Fi off):

Battery	Capacity	Avg. Runtime	Notes
GoPro AABAT-002 (Original)	1720mAh	1h 42m	Consistent, stable
Wasabi Power (Third-Party)	1720mAh	1h 38m	Slightly warmer, but reliable
DJI AB2-1000 (Modified)	1000mAh	52m	Used with dummy battery kit

As you can see, the original and third-party GoPro batteries perform nearly identically. The DJI battery, even when adapted, lasts much less—not surprising, since it’s lower capacity.

Temperature and Battery Life

Cold weather kills battery life. I once filmed in -5°C (23°F) with my HERO10. The battery lasted only 45 minutes—half its normal runtime. Here’s what helps:

• Keep spare batteries in an inner pocket (body heat helps).
• Use a battery grip or insulated case.
• Turn off Wi-Fi, GPS, and HyperSmooth when not needed.

Hot weather is less of an issue, but direct sun can overheat the camera. I avoid leaving my GoPro in a hot car. A few times, the camera shut down due to overheating—battery was fine, but the processor throttled.

Practical Tips for Managing Action Camera Batteries

Build a Smart Battery Kit

Don’t just throw batteries in your bag. Build a system. Here’s what I carry:

• 2–3 original or trusted third-party GoPro batteries (AABAT-002 for my HERO11).
• 1 multi-bay charger (I use the Wasabi 4-slot—charges all at once).
• 1 USB-C power bank (20,000mAh) for emergencies.
• 1 dummy battery kit for studio or long recordings.
• Small microfiber bag to store and organize everything.

Label your batteries! I use color-coded stickers—blue for fully charged, red for low. Saves time when you’re in a rush.

Charging Tips to Extend Battery Life

Batteries don’t like extremes. Follow these habits:

• Charge to 80% if storing for more than a week (reduces stress).
• Use a slow charger (1A or 2A) instead of fast charging when possible.
• Avoid leaving batteries in hot or cold environments (like a car).
• Don’t drain to 0% regularly. Recharge at 20–30% for best longevity.

I once left a battery in my backpack in the trunk of a car in summer. When I checked it weeks later, it wouldn’t charge. Heat damage. Lesson learned.

When to Upgrade Your Batteries

How do you know when a battery is “dead”? Signs include:

• Runtime drops by 30% or more.
• Battery swells or feels warm during charging.
• Camera shuts down unexpectedly at 20–30%.

I replace batteries every 1.5–2 years, depending on use. For heavy users (daily filming), consider replacing yearly. For occasional use, every 2–3 years is fine.

Final Thoughts: Can You Share Batteries Across Brands?

So, do any action cameras use the same battery as GoPro? The short answer: no, not officially. No other brand shares the exact physical, electrical, or digital specs of GoPro batteries. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.

The good news? GoPro’s recent models (HERO9 through HERO12) all use the same AABAT-002 battery. That’s a major win for compatibility within the ecosystem. Plus, high-quality third-party batteries make it affordable to stock up. And with USB-C charging and dummy battery kits, you can power your GoPro (and other USB-C action cams) from a single power bank.

For multi-camera setups—like using a GoPro for wide shots and an Insta360 for 360°—you’ll still need separate batteries. But you can streamline your gear by using one power bank to charge everything overnight. Or invest in a universal charging station that handles multiple battery types.

At the end of the day, battery compatibility is about planning. Know your gear, carry smart backups, and don’t assume “similar specs” means “works.” I’ve saved countless shoots by having a USB-C cable and power bank in my bag. It’s not as convenient as a spare battery, but it’s a lifesaver when you’re miles from an outlet.

And remember: the best battery is the one that’s charged and ready. Whether it’s GoPro, DJI, or Insta360, keep your power sources organized, charged, and protected. That way, when the moment happens—the eagle in flight, the perfect wave, the surprise proposal—you’ll be ready to capture it, no battery panic required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do any action cameras use the same battery as GoPro?

Yes, several third-party action cameras, like certain Akaso and Campark models, are designed to be compatible with GoPro’s standard batteries (e.g., HERO9/10/11/12). This cross-compatibility helps reduce costs for users who already own GoPro gear.

Can I use a GoPro battery in other action cameras?

Some action cameras explicitly support GoPro-style batteries due to shared form factors and voltage requirements. Always verify compatibility with the manufacturer, as using non-approved batteries may damage your device or void the warranty.

Which action cameras share GoPro’s battery model?

Brands like DJI (Osmo Action 3/4), Akaso Brave, and some older SJCAM models use batteries interchangeable with GoPro’s HERO9/10/11/12. Check your camera’s manual or product listing to confirm if “GoPro battery” is listed as compatible.

Is it safe to use third-party batteries with my GoPro?

Reputable third-party brands (e.g., Wasabi Power, Duracell) design batteries to meet GoPro’s specifications, making them safe and reliable. Avoid cheap, unbranded options, as they may overheat or degrade faster.

Why do some action cameras use the same battery as GoPro?

Using GoPro’s standard battery design allows manufacturers to leverage an established ecosystem, offering users convenience and cost savings. It also simplifies accessory compatibility, like dual chargers and spare batteries.

Where can I buy extra batteries for my GoPro-compatible action camera?

You can purchase GoPro batteries or third-party equivalents on Amazon, B&H, or directly from brands like Wasabi Power. Ensure the product description confirms compatibility with your specific action camera model.