Action Camera Not Charging Here Are the Top Fixes to Try

Dead action camera? First, check the charging cable and power source—most charging issues stem from faulty connections or weak adapters. Ensure the cable is undamaged, fully inserted, and paired with a high-quality power supply. Clean the charging port gently and try a reset if the battery still won’t respond—these quick fixes often revive unresponsive cameras.

Key Takeaways

• Check the power source first: Ensure your outlet or power bank is working properly.
• Inspect the charging cable: Look for visible damage or try a different cable.
• Clean charging ports: Remove dust or debris with a dry, soft brush.
• Verify battery placement: Ensure the battery is correctly inserted in the camera.
• Reset the camera: Perform a factory reset if charging issues persist.
• Try a different battery: Rule out battery failure by testing with a replacement.

Why Isn’t My Action Camera Charging? Let’s Fix It Together

You’ve just returned from an epic hike, your GoPro or DJI action camera packed with stunning 4K footage of waterfalls, mountain vistas, and maybe even a close encounter with a curious squirrel. You plug it in to charge, ready to upload and share your adventure—only to find the battery icon stubbornly refuses to light up. Your heart sinks. “Why won’t my action camera charge?” becomes the only question on your mind.

If you’ve ever faced this frustrating scenario, you’re not alone. Action cameras are rugged, but they’re not invincible. Whether it’s a GoPro Hero, DJI Osmo Action, Insta360, or another brand, charging issues are among the most common problems users report. The good news? Most of the time, the cause is something you can fix at home—no need to send it back or buy a new one. From dirty charging ports to software glitches, the root causes are often simple and preventable. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top fixes, based on real-world troubleshooting, user reports, and a few personal “oh no” moments of my own. Let’s get your camera back in action.

1. Check the Basics: Power Source, Cable, and Adapter

Start with the Obvious—But Don’t Skip It

Before diving into advanced diagnostics, let’s cover the basics. It sounds simple, but many charging issues stem from overlooked power sources. Think of it like checking if the lightbulb is screwed in before replacing the fuse box.

First, verify your power source. Are you plugging into a wall outlet? Try a different outlet—sometimes a breaker trips or a socket is faulty. If you’re using a power bank, ensure it’s charged and delivering power (test it with another device, like your phone). A power bank that shows 100% but can’t charge anything is more common than you’d think.

Next, inspect the USB cable. Look for visible damage: frayed wires, bent connectors, or kinks near the plug. Even if it looks fine, try a different cable. I once spent 45 minutes troubleshooting a non-charging GoPro, only to realize the USB-C cable I was using was designed for data transfer, not charging. Oops. Use the original cable if possible, or a high-quality replacement rated for at least 5V/2A (10W). Cheap knockoffs often lack proper internal wiring.

The Charging Adapter Matters More Than You Think

Your charging adapter (the wall plug) is just as important. Many action cameras require a steady 5V/2A input. Using a phone charger with only 5V/1A (5W) might not deliver enough power—especially if the camera is trying to charge while powered on.

For example, my DJI Osmo Action 3 charges slowly with a 5W adapter but works perfectly with a 10W or 18W fast charger. Check your camera’s manual for the recommended input. If you’re using a multi-port USB hub, plug the camera directly into the wall adapter—hubs can limit power delivery.

Pro tip: Use a USB power meter (available for under $15) to check actual voltage and current. I keep one in my travel bag. It’s saved me from “ghost charging” issues where the camera shows a charging icon but the battery percentage doesn’t budge.

2. Clean the Charging Port and Battery Contacts

Dirt, Sand, and Salt Are Silent Killers

Action cameras are built for the outdoors—but that’s also where they pick up the most grime. Sand, dust, saltwater residue, and even lint from your pocket can clog the charging port or coat the battery contacts. Over time, this buildup creates a barrier, preventing proper electrical connection.

I learned this the hard way after a beach shoot in Hawaii. My GoPro Hero 10 wouldn’t charge. At first, I thought it was a software issue. Then I noticed a fine layer of salt crystals around the USB-C port. A quick clean with a toothpick and alcohol wipe fixed it instantly.

How to Clean Safely (Without Damaging Your Camera)

• Power off the camera—never clean while it’s charging or on.
• Use a soft-bristled brush (a clean toothbrush works) to gently remove loose debris.
• Dip a wooden toothpick or plastic spudger in isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) and carefully scrape the inside of the port. Avoid metal tools—they can scratch contacts.
• For battery contacts (on removable battery models), wipe with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Let it air dry for 2–3 minutes.
• Use compressed air (short bursts) to blow out dust. Hold the can upright to avoid moisture.

Important: Don’t use water or household cleaners. They can leave residue or corrode metal. And never blow into the port with your mouth—saliva can damage electronics.

After cleaning, try charging again. If it works, great! If not, move to the next step. Regular cleaning (every few weeks, or after outdoor use) can prevent future issues.

3. Test the Battery: Is It Dead or Just Misbehaving?

Swappable vs. Built-in Batteries: Know Your Camera

Action cameras fall into two categories: those with removable batteries (like GoPro Hero models, DJI Osmo Action 3) and those with built-in batteries (like Insta360 One RS, some older GoPros). The troubleshooting steps differ slightly.

For removable batteries, test with a second battery if you have one. Pop in a known-good battery and see if it charges. If it does, your original battery is likely the culprit. If not, the issue is with the camera or charging system.

How to Revive a “Dead” Battery

Sometimes, a lithium-ion battery enters a “deep discharge” state—meaning it’s drained so much that the internal protection circuit shuts it down. This isn’t permanent damage, but the camera can’t detect it. Here’s how to wake it up:

• Use a smart charger (like the GoPro Dual Battery Charger or a universal USB battery charger). These devices can detect and revive deeply discharged batteries.
• Charge via a low-current source (e.g., a USB port on a computer) for 30–60 minutes. The lower current sometimes bypasses the protection circuit.
• For built-in batteries, try plugging into a wall charger for 2–4 hours, even if the screen stays black. Some cameras need a “trickle charge” to reactivate.

I once revived a GoPro battery that hadn’t been charged for 6 months by leaving it on a smart charger overnight. It worked perfectly the next day. But if a battery won’t hold a charge after 24 hours, it’s likely degraded and needs replacement.

When to Replace the Battery

Lithium-ion batteries degrade over time. After 1–2 years of regular use, you might notice shorter battery life or sudden shutdowns. Most action camera batteries are rated for 300–500 charge cycles. If yours is older than that, or shows signs of swelling, replace it. Third-party batteries (like Wasabi Power or Tether Tools) are often cheaper and just as reliable as OEM.

4. Software Glitches and Firmware Updates

The Camera Might Be Frozen—Not Broken

Sometimes, the issue isn’t hardware—it’s software. A frozen firmware or corrupted system file can prevent the charging circuit from initializing. This is more common after a firmware update, a hard reset, or if the camera shut down mid-charge.

Signs of a software issue:

• Camera is unresponsive (no lights, no screen).
• Charging icon appears but battery percentage doesn’t change.
• Camera powers on but shuts down immediately.

Force Restart and Factory Reset

Most action cameras have a hard reset option. For GoPro, press and hold the power button for 15–30 seconds until the LED flashes. For DJI, hold the power and record buttons together. This forces the camera to reboot, clearing temporary glitches.

If that doesn’t work, try a factory reset (check your manual for steps). This erases all settings but won’t affect the firmware. After resetting, plug in the charger and wait 10–15 minutes. Sometimes the camera needs time to reinitialize the charging system.

Update or Reinstall Firmware

Outdated or corrupted firmware can cause charging issues. Here’s how to fix it:

• Download the latest firmware from the manufacturer’s website (e.g., GoPro.com, DJI.com).
• Format a microSD card to FAT32 (use a card under 32GB for compatibility).
• Copy the firmware file to the root of the card.
• Insert the card, plug in the charger, and power on the camera. It should auto-detect and install the update.

I once fixed a DJI Osmo Action 4 that wouldn’t charge by reinstalling the firmware. The update took 10 minutes, and afterward, it charged normally. Always keep your camera’s firmware updated—it’s not just for new features, but for stability too.

5. Hardware Issues: When It’s More Than a Simple Fix

Water Damage and Internal Corrosion

Even waterproof action cameras can suffer water damage. If your camera was exposed to saltwater, heavy rain, or submerged beyond its rating, moisture might have seeped into the charging port or circuit board. This causes corrosion, short circuits, or failed components.

Signs of water damage:

• White or green residue around the port or battery.
• Intermittent charging (works sometimes, not others).
• Flickering lights or erratic behavior.

If you suspect water damage, disconnect the battery immediately (if removable) and let the camera dry for 24–48 hours in a warm, dry place. Avoid rice—it’s ineffective and can leave dust. Instead, use silica gel packets or a dehumidifier.

Damaged Charging Port or Circuit Board

Physical damage—like a bent USB-C port or cracked circuit board—can prevent charging. If you’ve dropped your camera or forced a cable in, this might be the cause.

For minor port issues (e.g., a slightly bent pin), you can try gently straightening it with a plastic spudger. But if the port is loose, cracked, or the camera shows no signs of life after 48 hours of charging, it’s time for professional repair.

Most manufacturers offer out-of-warranty repairs. For example, GoPro charges $49–$99 for a battery/port replacement. Third-party repair shops are often cheaper, but ensure they specialize in action cameras. A poorly soldered port can cause more issues.

When to Call It Quits (and Buy a New Camera)

Not every camera is worth saving. If:

• The battery is swollen or leaking.
• Water damage is severe (corrosion inside the lens or screen).
• The repair cost exceeds 50% of a new camera’s price.

…it’s probably time to upgrade. But don’t toss the old one—many brands offer trade-in or recycling programs.

6. Prevention: How to Avoid Charging Problems in the Future

Daily Habits for Long-Term Reliability

Prevention is better than cure. Here’s how to keep your action camera charging smoothly:

• Clean the port after every outdoor use—even a quick wipe with a dry cloth helps.
• Use a protective case or port cover when not in use. Many cameras come with one.
• Charge in a dry, cool place—avoid leaving it in a hot car or direct sunlight.
• Don’t let the battery drain to 0% regularly. Lithium-ion batteries prefer 20–80% charge cycles.
• Store with 50% battery if not using for months. This prevents deep discharge.

Travel Tips for Adventurers

On the road? Pack:

• A high-capacity power bank (20,000mAh or more).
• Multiple USB-C cables (keep one in your camera bag, one in your car).
• A universal travel adapter with USB ports.
• A small brush and alcohol wipes for quick cleaning.

I always carry a silicone charging port cover—it’s a $5 investment that’s saved me from sand and dust issues countless times.

Data Table: Recommended Charging Accessories

Accessory	Best For	Why It Works
USB-C to USB-C Cable (2m)	Fast charging	Supports 18W+ power delivery; durable braided design
Anker PowerPort III 30W	Wall charging	Reliable, compact, and compatible with most action cameras
Jackery Explorer 1000 Power Station	Off-grid charging	Charges 3–4 cameras on a single charge; solar-compatible
Portable USB-C Battery Tester	Troubleshooting	Checks voltage, current, and cable quality in real-time

Final Thoughts: Don’t Panic—Your Camera Can Be Saved

An action camera that won’t charge feels like a disaster, but it’s rarely a death sentence. In most cases, the fix is as simple as cleaning the port, swapping the battery, or updating the firmware. I’ve rescued cameras from beaches, mountains, and even a muddy riverbank—all by following these steps.

Remember: start with the basics (power source, cable, adapter), clean thoroughly, test the battery, and check for software issues before assuming hardware failure. And when in doubt, consult the manufacturer’s support site—many have detailed troubleshooting guides.

Your adventures deserve to be captured, and with a little patience, your camera will be back in action. So next time your GoPro or DJI won’t charge, take a deep breath, grab your toolkit, and try these fixes. You’ve got this. And hey, if you’ve got a charging horror story of your own, share it in the comments—I’d love to hear how you solved it. Happy filming!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my action camera not charging even when plugged in?

This is a common “action camera not charging” issue often caused by a faulty charging cable, dirty charging port, or a drained battery. Try using a different cable or cleaning the port gently with a dry brush to remove debris.

How do I fix an action camera that won’t charge past a certain percentage?

Overheating or battery calibration issues may cause this. Let the camera cool down, then fully drain the battery and recharge it to 100% to recalibrate the power management system.

Could the power source be causing my action camera charging problem?

Yes, weak power sources (like a laptop USB port) may not supply enough energy for the “action camera not charging” issue. Use a wall adapter with the correct voltage (5V/2A) for reliable charging.

What should I do if my action camera battery isn’t holding a charge?

Battery degradation over time is likely the culprit. Replace the battery if it’s swollen or over 2 years old, and avoid leaving the camera in extreme temperatures.

Is water damage a possible reason for my action camera not charging?

Yes, water or moisture in the charging port can prevent proper connection. Inspect for corrosion, dry the port thoroughly, and avoid charging until fully moisture-free.

Why does my action camera blink red but not charge?

A red blinking light usually signals a connection issue or low battery. Check the cable integrity, ensure the port is clean, and leave it plugged in for 30+ minutes to revive a deeply drained battery.