Vivitar Action Camera How to Charge A Quick Guide

Charging your Vivitar action camera is simple and fast when you use the included USB cable and a compatible power source like a wall adapter, power bank, or computer. Always ensure the camera is powered off during charging to maximize battery life and avoid connection issues. For best results, use original accessories and avoid fast-charging adapters unless specified.

Key Takeaways

• Use the correct cable: Always use the included USB-C or micro-USB cable for charging.
• Check power source: Plug into a wall adapter or computer for stable power.
• Monitor LED lights: Red means charging; green means fully charged.
• Avoid overcharging: Unplug once fully charged to prolong battery life.
• Charge before storage: Maintain 50% charge if storing long-term.

Understanding Your Vivitar Action Camera’s Charging Needs

So, you just got your hands on a Vivitar action camera. Maybe you’re planning a hiking trip, a snorkeling adventure, or just want to capture your weekend mountain biking escapade. You’re excited—rightfully so—because these little cameras are built to handle rough and tumble, and they pack a punch for their size. But before you head out, there’s one thing you have to sort out: how to charge your Vivitar action camera.

Let’s be honest—charging a camera sounds simple, right? Plug it in and wait. But if you’ve ever found yourself with a dead battery halfway up a trail or in the middle of a dive, you know it’s not always that straightforward. Different Vivitar models, varying battery types, and a range of charging accessories can make the process a bit confusing at first. I’ve been there—sitting in a campsite with a fully charged phone but a camera that won’t power on because I didn’t charge it properly the night before. Not fun.

The good news? Once you understand the basics, charging your Vivitar action camera becomes second nature. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from identifying your model to using the right cables, troubleshooting charging issues, and even maximizing battery life. Whether you’re a first-time action cam user or upgrading from an older model, this quick guide will help you avoid those “oh no, it’s dead” moments and keep your adventures rolling.

Identifying Your Vivitar Action Camera Model

Before we dive into the charging process, it’s essential to know which Vivitar action camera you’re using. Vivitar has released several models over the years, including the DVR-788, DVR-888, DVR-990, and newer versions like the Vivitar 4K Ultra HD Action Camera. Each model may have slight differences in battery type, charging port, and power requirements. Charging a DVR-788 is not the same as charging a 4K model, even though they look similar.

Check the Model Number

The easiest way to identify your camera is by looking at the model number. You’ll usually find it on the back or bottom of the device, near the battery compartment. It might be printed directly on the body or on a small label. For example:

• DVR-788 – Older model with micro-USB charging
• DVR-888 – Mid-range model with improved battery and USB-C support on newer versions
• Vivitar 4K Ultra HD – Features USB-C and faster charging capability

Once you know your model, you can tailor your charging approach. For instance, older models like the DVR-788 rely on micro-USB, which is slower and less durable than USB-C. If you’re using a newer 4K model, you’ll want to take advantage of faster charging options.

Look at the Charging Port

Another quick way to tell the difference is by inspecting the charging port. Flip open the protective rubber flap on the side of the camera. If you see a small, flat trapezoid-shaped port, that’s micro-USB. If it’s oval-shaped and symmetrical, that’s USB-C. This matters because:

• Micro-USB cables are more common but wear out faster and charge slower
• USB-C supports faster data transfer and charging, and is reversible (no more flipping the cable)

Pro tip: Take a photo of your model number and charging port and save it in your phone. That way, if you ever lose the manual or need to order a replacement battery, you’ve got the info handy.

What You Need to Charge Your Vivitar Action Camera

Now that you know your model, let’s gather the right tools. Charging your Vivitar action camera is straightforward, but using the wrong equipment can lead to slow charging, battery damage, or even a dead port. Here’s what you need:

1. The Right Charging Cable

As mentioned, most Vivitar models use either micro-USB or USB-C. Always use the cable that came with your camera if possible. If not, make sure you’re using a high-quality third-party cable. Cheap cables often have thin wires and poor insulation, which can result in:

• Intermittent charging
• Overheating
• Reduced charging speed

I once used a $2 cable from a gas station to charge my DVR-888. It took over 4 hours to go from 10% to 90%—and the cable started getting warm. Not ideal. Stick to reputable brands like Anker, Belkin, or AmazonBasics.

2. A Compatible Power Source

You can charge your Vivitar camera from multiple sources:

• Wall adapter (5V/1A or 5V/2A recommended)
• Computer USB port (slower, but fine for overnight charging)
• Power bank (great for on-the-go charging during trips)
• Car charger (handy for road trips or camping)

For fastest charging, use a wall adapter rated at 5V/2A. A 1A adapter works but takes longer. Avoid using fast-charging adapters (like 9V or 12V) unless your camera explicitly supports them—most Vivitar models don’t, and using them could damage the battery.

3. Battery (If Removable)

Some Vivitar models, like the DVR-788 and DVR-888, have removable batteries. This is a huge advantage. You can carry spare batteries and swap them out instead of waiting to charge. The battery is usually a small lithium-ion pack labeled “3.7V 900mAh” or similar.

To charge a removable battery:

• Remove the battery from the camera
• Insert it into an external charger (sold separately or sometimes included)
• Plug the charger into a power source

If your model has an internal battery (like some 4K versions), you’ll need to charge the entire camera. In that case, make sure the camera is powered off during charging to reduce heat buildup.

4. Optional: External Battery Charger

If you have a removable battery and plan to be off-grid, consider buying an external dual-bay charger. It lets you charge two batteries at once, so you’re never without power. Brands like Wasabi Power and Kastar make affordable, reliable chargers compatible with Vivitar batteries.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Charge Your Vivitar Action Camera

Alright, let’s get into the actual process. Whether you’re charging in your bedroom, at a campsite, or in your car, here’s how to do it right—step by step.

For Cameras with Removable Batteries (DVR-788, DVR-888, etc.)

1. Power off the camera – Press and hold the power button until the screen goes black. This prevents unnecessary power draw during charging.
2. Open the battery compartment – Use your fingernail or a small tool to lift the rubber flap on the side. Slide out the battery tray.
3. Remove the battery – Gently pull the battery out. Don’t yank the connector wires.
4. Insert battery into external charger – Make sure the contacts align with the charger’s metal pins. The LED should light up (usually red = charging, green = full).
5. Connect charger to power – Use a wall adapter or power bank. Charging typically takes 2–3 hours.
6. Reinsert battery – Once fully charged, slide the battery back into the camera and close the compartment.

Pro tip: Label your spare batteries with tape (e.g., “Spare 1,” “Spare 2”) so you don’t mix charged and uncharged ones.

For Cameras with Internal Batteries (4K Ultra HD, etc.)

1. Power off the camera – Again, this reduces heat and speeds up charging.
2. Open the charging port cover – Flip up the rubber flap on the side. Be gentle—these flaps can tear if pulled too hard.
3. Connect the USB cable – Plug the micro-USB or USB-C end into the camera, and the other end into your power source.
4. Check the charging indicator – A red or orange LED should light up. On some models, the screen may show a charging icon.
5. Wait 2–3 hours – Most Vivitar cameras take about 2.5 hours to go from 0% to 100% with a 2A adapter.
6. Unplug and close the port – Once charged, disconnect the cable and seal the rubber flap to keep out dust and moisture.

Note: If the camera powers on during charging (some models do), just press the power button again to turn it off. Leaving it on will slow charging.

Charging on the Go: Using a Power Bank

Out hiking or at the beach? A power bank is your best friend. I always carry a 10,000mAh Anker power bank on trips. Here’s how to use it:

• Make sure your power bank has at least 50% charge
• Use a high-quality USB-A to micro-USB or USB-C cable
• Connect the camera to the power bank
• Place both in a dry, shaded spot (direct sun heats up batteries)

On a recent camping trip, I charged my DVR-888 from 20% to 100% using a power bank in about 2.5 hours. The power bank still had plenty of juice left for my phone later.

Troubleshooting Common Charging Issues

Even with the right gear, things can go wrong. Here are the most common charging problems and how to fix them—based on real user experiences (and my own mishaps).

1. The Camera Won’t Charge at All

If nothing happens when you plug in the cable:

• Check the cable – Try a different cable. I once thought my camera was broken, but it was just a frayed micro-USB cable.
• Inspect the charging port – Look for dust, lint, or bent pins. Use a can of compressed air or a soft brush to clean it. Never use a metal tool—it can damage the port.
• Try a different power source – Test with a wall adapter, computer, and power bank to isolate the issue.
• Check the battery – If removable, try charging it in an external charger. If it still won’t charge, the battery may be dead and need replacement.

One user on a forum said their camera wouldn’t charge after being left in a cold car overnight. The battery had temporarily lost capacity due to the cold. After warming it up (inside a jacket pocket), it charged normally.

2. Charging Is Very Slow

If your camera takes 5+ hours to charge:

• Use a 2A wall adapter – A 1A adapter or computer USB port will be much slower.
• Turn the camera off – Charging while powered on uses extra power.
• Update firmware – Some older models have bugs that affect charging speed. Check Vivitar’s website for updates.

Another tip: Avoid charging in hot environments. High temperatures degrade lithium-ion batteries and slow charging.

3. Charging Stops Midway

If the camera charges to 80% and then stops:

• It might be a battery health issue – After 300–500 charge cycles, lithium-ion batteries lose capacity. A 900mAh battery might only hold 600mAh after a year of heavy use.
• Try a reset – Power off the camera, unplug it, wait 10 seconds, then plug it back in.
• Check for firmware glitches – Some users report that a factory reset fixes charging issues.

If the problem persists, the battery may need replacement. Third-party batteries cost $10–$15 and are widely available on Amazon and eBay.

4. The Charging Port Feels Loose

Over time, the charging port can become loose from repeated plugging and unplugging. If the cable wiggles or doesn’t make contact:

• Try a different cable – Some cables have tighter fits than others.
• Use a port cleaner – A small amount of isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab can remove corrosion.
• Contact support – If the port is damaged, it may need professional repair.

I had a DVR-788 where the micro-USB port got so loose that charging was hit-or-miss. I ended up using a magnetic charging cable as a workaround—it snapped on and off easily without straining the port.

Maximizing Battery Life and Charging Efficiency

Want your Vivitar action camera battery to last longer—both per charge and over its lifetime? Here are some science-backed tips to help you get the most out of your power.

1. Avoid Full Discharges

Lithium-ion batteries don’t like being drained to 0%. Doing so regularly shortens their lifespan. Instead, aim to charge when the battery hits 20–30%. Think of it like your phone—topping it off is better than waiting for a red warning.

2. Store Batteries at 50% Charge

If you’re not using your camera for a month or more, charge the battery to about 50% before storing it. Storing a fully charged or fully drained battery for long periods can cause permanent damage. I learned this the hard way—my spare battery sat at 0% for 3 months and never held a charge again.

3. Keep It Cool

Heat is the enemy of battery life. Avoid leaving your camera (or spare batteries) in direct sunlight, hot cars, or near heaters. Ideal storage temperature: 15–25°C (59–77°F).

4. Use Battery-Saving Settings

Your camera’s settings can drain power quickly. To extend battery life:

• Lower screen brightness
• Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not needed
• Set auto power-off to 1 or 2 minutes
• Use lower resolution if you don’t need 4K

On my 4K model, turning off Wi-Fi doubled my recording time from 45 minutes to 90 minutes on a single charge.

5. Calibrate the Battery Occasionally

Every few months, do a full charge cycle: drain the battery to 0%, then charge it to 100% without interruption. This helps the camera’s battery meter stay accurate.

Charging Time Comparison Table

Vivitar Model	Charging Port	Battery Type	Charging Time (0–100%)	Recommended Charger
DVR-788	Micro-USB	Removable (900mAh)	2.5 hours	5V/2A wall adapter
DVR-888	Micro-USB or USB-C	Removable (1000mAh)	2.5–3 hours	5V/2A adapter or power bank
Vivitar 4K Ultra HD	USB-C	Internal (1200mAh)	2 hours	5V/2A adapter (USB-C)
DVR-990	Micro-USB	Removable (950mAh)	3 hours	5V/1A or 2A adapter

Note: Charging times may vary based on cable quality, power source, and battery age.

Conclusion: Keep Your Adventures Rolling

Charging your Vivitar action camera might seem like a small detail, but it’s one of the most important parts of owning one. A dead battery means missed shots, interrupted recordings, and frustration when you’re out in the wild. By now, you know exactly how to charge your Vivitar action camera—whether you have a classic DVR-788 or the latest 4K model.

Remember: identify your model, use the right cable and power source, follow the charging steps, and take care of your battery. Keep spare batteries charged, avoid extreme temperatures, and don’t let your camera die before you’ve even hit record.

I’ve been using Vivitar cameras for years, and the biggest lesson I’ve learned is this: preparation beats panic. When you know your gear inside and out—especially how to charge it—you spend less time troubleshooting and more time capturing those epic moments.

So next time you’re packing for a trip, don’t just toss in your camera. Grab a spare battery, a quality cable, and a power bank. Charge everything the night before. And when that sunrise over the mountain or that perfect wave comes into view, your Vivitar will be ready—fully powered and waiting to roll.

Happy filming, and keep those memories rolling!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I charge my Vivitar action camera?

To charge your Vivitar action camera, connect the included USB cable to the camera’s charging port and plug the other end into a computer, wall adapter, or power bank. The charging indicator light will turn on to confirm it’s charging.

How long does it take to fully charge a Vivitar action camera?

A full charge typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on the battery capacity and power source. Using a wall adapter may charge it faster than a computer’s USB port.

Can I use a third-party charger for my Vivitar action camera?

Yes, you can use a third-party USB charger, but ensure it matches the camera’s voltage requirements (usually 5V). For optimal safety and performance, stick to reputable brands or the original Vivitar charger.

Is it safe to charge my Vivitar action camera overnight?

While most modern Vivitar cameras have overcharge protection, it’s best to avoid leaving them plugged in for extended periods. Unplug the camera once the charging light indicates a full charge.

Why won’t my Vivitar action camera charge?

If your Vivitar action camera isn’t charging, check the cable, port, and power source for damage or debris. Try a different USB cable or adapter, and ensure the battery is properly seated in the camera.

Can I use my Vivitar action camera while charging?

Yes, many Vivitar models support pass-through charging, allowing you to use the camera while it’s plugged in. However, this may slow down the charging process or generate heat, so monitor the device.