Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera Charger Guide Top Picks and Tips

The Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera Charger you choose can make or break your adventure—opt for reliable, fast-charging options like the GoPro Supercharger or certified third-party USB-C adapters to keep your camera powered on the go. Ensure compatibility and avoid cheap knockoffs to protect battery life and maximize shooting time. For extended trips, pack a portable power bank with at least 10,000mAh capacity to recharge your Hero5 Session multiple times without access to an outlet.

Key Takeaways

• Use GoPro-approved chargers for optimal performance and battery safety.
• Dual-port chargers save time by charging two batteries simultaneously.
• Always carry a portable power bank for on-the-go charging during adventures.
• Check charging status via LED indicators to avoid overcharging risks.
• Store batteries at 50% charge to prolong lifespan when unused.
• Avoid third-party knockoffs—they may damage your camera or void warranty.

Why the Right Charger Matters for Your Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera

You’ve just returned from an epic mountain biking session, your GoPro Hero5 Session 4K action camera capturing every twist, jump, and muddy splash. You’re eager to review the footage, but as you plug in your camera—nothing. The battery’s dead, and you’re left with a sinking feeling. Sound familiar? This is the reality for many action camera users who underestimate the importance of a reliable Hero5 Session 4K action camera charger.

Your Hero5 Session is a compact powerhouse, but its battery life isn’t infinite. Whether you’re filming a 4K adventure, time-lapses at the beach, or vlogging your daily commute, running out of juice mid-shot can ruin the moment. That’s where the right charging solution comes in. From wall chargers to portable banks, the market is flooded with options—some great, some not so much. The goal isn’t just to keep your camera alive; it’s to do so efficiently, safely, and without breaking the bank. In this guide, I’ll share my real-world experiences, top picks, and practical tips to help you find the perfect charger for your Hero5 Session.

Understanding Your Hero5 Session’s Charging Needs

What the Hero5 Session Requires

The GoPro Hero5 Session uses a built-in 1000mAh lithium-ion battery. Unlike some action cameras, it doesn’t have a removable battery, which means you can’t just swap in a spare. Instead, you rely entirely on charging solutions that connect via the camera’s micro-USB port. This design keeps the camera compact and waterproof, but it also means charging is a bit more involved.

The official GoPro charger (sold separately) delivers 5V/1A, which is standard for USB charging. But here’s the catch: the Hero5 Session doesn’t support fast charging. That means even if you plug it into a 2.4A port, it will still charge at 1A. This is a safety feature to protect the battery’s lifespan. While it may seem limiting, it’s actually a good thing—overcharging or using high-current chargers can degrade lithium-ion batteries over time.

Common Charging Scenarios

Let’s talk real-life use cases. I’ve used my Hero5 Session in three main scenarios:

• Daily vlogging: Charging overnight after a few hours of use.
• Weekend adventures: Charging between hikes or water activities.
• Multi-day trips: Needing to charge on the go, often without wall outlets.

Each scenario demands different solutions. For example, on a weekend camping trip, I once tried using a cheap car charger. The voltage fluctuated, and the camera kept disconnecting. Not ideal when you’re trying to film a sunrise. Later, I switched to a high-quality USB car adapter and a portable power bank—game-changer.

What to Look for in a Charger

When choosing a Hero5 Session 4K action camera charger, focus on three things:

• Stable voltage: Stick to 5V to avoid damaging the battery.
• Reliable current: 1A is perfect; higher isn’t better here.
• Build quality: Look for UL or CE certifications. I once used a no-name charger that overheated—scary stuff.

Also, consider portability. A bulky charger won’t help if you’re hiking. I’ve learned to pack a compact wall adapter and a lightweight power bank for trips.

Top 5 Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera Chargers in 2024

1. GoPro Dual Battery Charger + Battery (Official)

If you’re a frequent shooter, this is the gold standard. The official GoPro dual charger comes with a spare 1000mAh battery (yes, you can remove it with a tool—more on that later). It charges two batteries simultaneously in about 2.5 hours. I use this at home before trips to ensure I have a full spare.

Pros:

• Trusted brand quality
• Charges two batteries at once
• Includes battery storage case

Cons:

• Expensive (~$50)
• Requires battery removal tool (not included)

Pro Tip: Use a precision screwdriver to remove the battery. It’s tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, swapping batteries takes under a minute.

2. Anker PowerPort III Nano (Best Wall Charger)

Anker is my go-to for wall chargers. The PowerPort III Nano is tiny (fits in your palm), delivers 18W PD (but the Hero5 will only draw 1A), and has a foldable plug. I keep one in my camera bag and another at home. It’s also great for charging phones and tablets.

Pros:

• Compact and travel-friendly
• Fast charging for other devices
• Anker’s 18-month warranty

Cons:

• No built-in cable (you’ll need a micro-USB cable)
• Overkill for the Hero5’s charging speed

3. RAVPower 10000mAh Portable Charger (Best for On-the-Go)

This power bank is a lifesaver. With 10,000mAh, it can fully charge my Hero5 Session 3-4 times. I used it during a 5-day backpacking trip and never worried about battery life. It has two USB ports, so I charged my phone and camera simultaneously.

Pros:

• High capacity
• Dual USB ports
• LED battery indicator

Cons:

• Slightly heavy (6.4 oz)
• Slow to recharge itself (takes 6-7 hours)

Real-World Example: On a kayaking trip, I charged my Hero5 while eating lunch. The RAVPower kept both my camera and phone alive all day.

4. UGREEN USB Car Charger (Best for Road Trips)

For long drives, this 2.4A dual-port car charger is perfect. It fits snugly in the cigarette lighter, and the blue LED ring helps you find it in the dark. I’ve used it for cross-country road trips without issues.

Pros:

• Dual ports (charge camera + phone)
• LED indicator
• Affordable (~$10)

Cons:

• Not waterproof (avoid using near open windows)
• Plastic build feels slightly flimsy

5. JSAUX 10ft Micro-USB Cable (Best Cable Upgrade)

Don’t overlook the cable! The stock GoPro cable is short (3ft). I upgraded to this 10ft JSAUX cable and now I can charge while filming time-lapses from a distance. It’s braided, so it won’t fray, and the gold-plated connectors resist corrosion.

Pros:

• Long reach
• Durable braided nylon
• Works with all micro-USB devices

Cons:

• Slightly thicker than stock (may not fit tight spaces)
• Not USB-C (but that’s fine for Hero5)

Charging Tips to Maximize Battery Life and Performance

Charge Smart, Not Fast

Remember: the Hero5 Session doesn’t support fast charging. Plugging it into a high-wattage USB-C PD charger won’t speed things up. In fact, it can cause heat buildup, which degrades lithium-ion batteries. I learned this the hard way after using a 65W laptop charger. The camera got warm, and over time, the battery capacity dropped slightly.

Rule of thumb: Use a 5V/1A or 5V/2.1A charger (the camera will only draw 1A). Anker, RAVPower, and Aukey make great 1A-2.1A adapters.

Optimize Charging Frequency

Lithium-ion batteries last longest when kept between 20%-80% charge. I avoid fully discharging my Hero5 unless I’m on a long trip. Instead, I charge it after every use, even if it’s at 50%. This “top-off” method reduces stress on the battery.

Pro Tip: If you’re storing the camera for weeks, charge it to 50% first. Fully charged or dead batteries degrade faster in storage.

Use a Surge Protector

Power surges can fry electronics. I once lost a GoPro due to a lightning strike (yes, really). Now, I always use a surge protector when charging at home. A $15 protector is cheap insurance.

Keep It Cool

Heat is the enemy of batteries. Never charge your Hero5 in direct sunlight or a hot car. I keep my camera in the shade during beach trips and avoid charging it right after filming—let it cool down first.

Label Your Chargers

I use colored stickers to label my chargers: blue for Hero5, red for phone, etc. This saves time when I’m packing for a trip. No more guessing which cable goes where!

How to Charge Your Hero5 Session in Tricky Situations

On a Boat or Kayak

Water and electronics don’t mix. If you’re filming water sports, here’s how to charge safely:

• Use a waterproof power bank (like the Anker PowerCore 20100 with a rubberized case).
• Store the camera and power bank in a dry bag.
• Charge during breaks, not while on the water.

I once tried charging my Hero5 while kayaking. The micro-USB port got splashed, and the camera froze. Lesson learned: always dry the port thoroughly before plugging in.

During a Hike or Camping Trip

No outlets? No problem. My go-to setup:

• RAVPower 10000mAh power bank (fully charged before the trip).
• Solar charger (like the BigBlue 28W) for recharging the power bank during the day.
• JSAUX 10ft cable to charge while sitting around the campfire.

On a 3-day hike, I charged my Hero5 twice using just the power bank. The solar charger kept the bank at 80% by noon each day.

In a Hotel Room

Hotel outlets are often in awkward places. I use the JSAUX long cable to charge my Hero5 on the nightstand while I sleep. If outlets are scarce, I charge the power bank first, then use it for the camera.

On a Plane

Most planes have USB ports, but they’re often weak (500mA). I avoid charging my Hero5 mid-flight—it takes forever. Instead, I charge everything the night before and bring a power bank as a backup.

Comparing Chargers: What Works Best for Different Needs

Charger Comparison Table

Charger	Type	Best For	Charging Time (Hero5)	Portability	Price Range
GoPro Dual Charger	Wall (dual-battery)	Frequent shooters, home use	2.5 hrs (two batteries)	Medium	$40-$50
Anker PowerPort III Nano	Wall	Travel, daily use	2-2.5 hrs	High	$15-$20
RAVPower 10000mAh	Portable power bank	Trips, outdoor adventures	2-2.5 hrs (per charge)	Medium	$25-$30
UGREEN Car Charger	Car	Road trips, long drives	2-2.5 hrs	High	$8-$12
JSAUX 10ft Cable	Accessory (cable)	Flexible charging	Same as stock	High	$10-$15

This table helps you pick the right Hero5 Session 4K action camera charger based on your needs. For example, if you’re a weekend warrior, the Anker wall charger and RAVPower bank are a perfect combo. If you’re a professional filmmaker, the GoPro dual charger ensures you never miss a shot.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Charger for Your Lifestyle

Finding the best Hero5 Session 4K action camera charger isn’t about picking the most expensive or “premium” option. It’s about matching your gear to your lifestyle. If you’re a casual user, a simple Anker wall charger and a 3ft cable might be all you need. But if you’re chasing adventures, a high-capacity power bank and a reliable car charger are worth every penny.

From my experience, the key is preparedness. I’ve had trips ruined by dead batteries, but I’ve also had unforgettable moments saved by a well-charged power bank. Whether you’re filming a family vacation, a mountain bike descent, or a sunset time-lapse, the right charging setup lets you focus on capturing the moment—not the battery percentage.

So, here’s my final advice: start with the basics (a quality wall charger and a long cable), then add accessories as your needs grow. Keep your chargers organized, charge smart, and always have a backup plan. Your Hero5 Session is an incredible tool—make sure it’s ready when you are. Happy filming!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of charger is compatible with the Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera?

The GoPro Hero5 Session uses a proprietary USB-C charging cable and requires a 5V/1A power source. For fastest charging, use the official GoPro USB-C cable or a certified third-party alternative with the same specifications.

Can I use a phone charger to power my Hero5 Session 4K action camera?

Yes, any USB-C phone charger with 5V/1A output will work safely. However, avoid fast-charging adapters with higher voltage/amperage to prevent potential battery damage.

How long does it take to fully charge the Hero5 Session?

With the correct charger, a full charge takes approximately 2-3 hours. Charging time may vary slightly based on power source quality and battery age.

Are there portable charging options for the Hero5 Session 4K action camera?

Yes, compact USB-C power banks (5,000mAh or higher) make excellent portable chargers. Some brands offer ruggedized, waterproof models designed specifically for action cameras.

Why isn’t my Hero5 Session 4K camera charging with third-party cables?

Non-certified cables may lack proper voltage regulation or have incompatible connectors. Always look for USB-IF certified cables labeled as “GoPro-compatible” for reliable charging.

Does the Hero5 Session support charging while recording?

Yes, but it requires an external power source (like a power bank) connected via USB-C. Note that battery life may still deplete slowly if recording 4K video while charging.