The GoPro Hero 4 was, and still is, a fantastic action camera, capturing incredible moments from epic adventures to everyday fun. But let’s be real – battery life can sometimes feel like its Achilles’ heel. Nothing’s worse than hitting record on a crucial moment, only to have your camera die a few seconds later. That’s where a reliable external battery pack for GoPro Hero 4 comes into play. It’s a game-changer for anyone serious about capturing all the action without interruption.
Whether you’re exploring underwater worlds, tearing down mountain trails, or simply documenting a family vacation, having extra power on hand is essential. This guide dives deep into the top external charging solutions designed specifically for your trusty Hero 4, covering everything from high-capacity portable power banks to efficient replacement battery kits. Let’s make sure you never miss a shot again!
Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Dual Charger for Gopro Hero 4
This Suptig kit is a lifesaver for GoPro Hero 4 users looking for reliable backup power without the bulk. It provides two high-tech lithium-ion batteries and a convenient dual charger, allowing you to power up two batteries simultaneously. It’s perfect for ensuring you always have a fresh battery ready to pop in, effectively doubling your shooting time on the go. This is an excellent solution if you prefer swapping out drained batteries for fully charged ones rather than continuous charging.
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Key Features:
- Two 1160mAh / 3.8V / 4.4Wh Li-ion batteries included.
- Dual battery charger allows simultaneous charging of two batteries.
- Unique PCB safety circuit design for secure charging.
- Compatible with HERO4 Black and HERO4 Silver models.
- Compact charger size (2.1×1.7×0.78 in).
- Charges two batteries in about 2:30-3 hours with a 1A adapter (not included).
- Includes MINI USB cable.
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Pros:
- Provides two extra batteries, significantly extending shooting time.
- Dual charger is highly efficient.
- Compact and easy to carry.
- Safety features built-in for peace of mind.
- Good value for a complete kit.
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Cons:
- Does not include a 1A adapter.
- Requires swapping batteries, not a continuous power source.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise this kit for its direct compatibility and the convenience of charging two batteries at once. Many found the battery life comparable to the original, making it a highly recommended backup power solution for their GoPro Hero 4.
- See it on Amazon here
Suptig Portable Charger, 7800mAh Battery Pack Power Bank
When you need serious, continuous power for your GoPro Hero 4, the Suptig 7800mAh Portable Charger steps up. This isn’t just a battery pack; it’s a robust, waterproof power bank designed to keep your action camera running for extended periods. Its impressive capacity and durable construction make it an ideal companion for long shoots, especially in challenging environments where water resistance is key. Imagine being able to charge your GoPro while it’s still recording underwater (with an additional waterproof case)!
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Key Features:
- Built-in 7800mAh lithium battery capacity.
- Compatible with a wide range of GoPro models (including Hero 4) and other action cameras/smartphones.
- Waterproof to 98ft (30 meters).
- SmartProtect system for safety against overheating, short-circuiting.
- Made with stainless steel and PC material for durability.
- Upgraded fast charging mode.
- Can directly power the camera (requires special waterproof charging case for underwater use).
- Compact size (4.5×2.95×1.37 in) and cool-blue LED battery level indicator.
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Pros:
- High capacity for extended shooting.
- Excellent waterproofing and durable build.
- Versatile compatibility with multiple devices.
- Can provide continuous power.
- Fast charging capabilities.
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Cons:
- Special waterproof charging case needed for underwater charging of the camera (sold separately).
- Relatively long charging time for the power bank itself (7 hours with 1A adapter).
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User Impressions: Adventurous users rave about its waterproof capability and the sheer amount of power it provides. It’s often called a “must-have” for extended outdoor and underwater excursions, though some note the need for the extra waterproof case for specific use cases.
- See it on Amazon here
Batmax 3Packs AHDBT-401 1680mAh Battery + LED 3Slots USB Charger
The Batmax 3-pack offers an immediate boost to your GoPro Hero 4’s longevity. With three high-capacity replacement batteries and a super-convenient 3-slot LED USB charger, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time shooting. This kit focuses on providing premium quality cells that promise longer battery life without the dreaded memory effect, ensuring your GoPro is always ready for its close-up.
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Key Features:
- Three 1680mAh AHDBT-401 replacement batteries.
- Premium Grade A cells for extended life and no memory effect.
- Compatible with GoPro HERO4 Black/Silver.
- CE certified for safety and quality.
- 3-Slots LED USB Charger for simultaneous charging.
- LED indicators show charging status.
- Includes USB charging cable and manual.
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Pros:
- Excellent value with three batteries.
- High capacity per battery.
- Efficient 3-slot charger saves time.
- Reliable quality with CE certification.
- Good warranty and money-back guarantee.
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Cons:
- Requires swapping batteries.
- No wall adapter included.
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User Impressions: Customers love the convenience of charging multiple batteries at once and the noticeable improvement in recording time. The charger’s LED indicators are a big hit, making it easy to know when batteries are ready. Many consider it a superior alternative to OEM batteries.
- See it on Amazon here
PowerTrust 3Pcs AHDBT-401 Battery for Gopro Hero 4
PowerTrust brings you another fantastic option for keeping your GoPro Hero 4 powered up. This package includes three AHDBT-401 batteries and an innovative 3-slot LED USB charger, allowing you to charge all your backup batteries simultaneously and independently. It’s designed for seamless travel and home use, making it incredibly portable and convenient for adventurers who are always on the move.
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Key Features:
- Three AHDBT-401 replacement batteries.
- Three battery storage cases included.
- LED 3-Slots USB Charger for simultaneous and independent charging.
- Smart LED Indicators display each battery’s status.
- Compatible with GoPro HERO4 and AHDBT-401/AHBBP-401 cameras.
- Includes micro USB cable.
- 30 Days Free Refund, 2 Years Free Replacement, Lifetime Maintenance.
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Pros:
- Charges three batteries at once, speeding up prep time.
- Individual LED indicators are very helpful.
- Comes with protective battery storage cases.
- Excellent warranty and support.
- Portable and travel-friendly.
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Cons:
- Requires a power source for the USB charger (e.g., wall adapter, power bank).
- Batteries need to be swapped in the camera.
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User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate the value and reliability of this kit. The battery storage cases are a thoughtful addition, and the multi-slot charger is consistently praised for its efficiency. Users report good performance comparable to original GoPro batteries.
- See it on Amazon here
PowerTrust 4-Pack AHDBT-401 AHDBT401 Battery for Gopro Hero 4
If three batteries aren’t enough, how about four? The PowerTrust 4-Pack doubles down on extending your GoPro Hero 4’s operational time. This comprehensive kit provides four high-quality AHDBT-401 batteries and a dual USB charger, ensuring you have ample power for even the longest shoots. It’s built for those who simply can’t afford to run out of juice, making it an essential external battery pack for GoPro Hero 4 users with demanding schedules.
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Key Features:
- Four AHDBT-401 replacement batteries.
- Four battery box storage cases.
- Dual USB charger for simultaneous and independent charging.
- LED indicators show battery status.
- Compatible with GoPro AHDBT-401, AHBBP-401, HERO4 Black, and HERO4 Silver.
- CE certified.
- Includes USB charging cable.
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Pros:
- Massive power reserve with four batteries.
- Comes with individual battery storage cases.
- Dual charger is efficient for travel.
- Reliable performance and CE certified.
- Excellent for extended use or multi-day trips.
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Cons:
- Only a dual charger for four batteries (requires two charging cycles for all).
- Still requires swapping batteries.
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User Impressions: This pack is a favorite among heavy GoPro users. The sheer quantity of batteries means less worry about power, and the included cases are a definite bonus for organization and protection. Users generally find the batteries hold a charge well and perform consistently.
- See it on Amazon here
Suptig Portable Charger, Power Bank, Battery Charger (4500mA)
For those seeking a more compact, direct power solution, the Suptig 4500mA Portable Charger is a standout. This small but mighty power bank offers continuous charging capability for your GoPro Hero 4, even underwater up to 98ft (with a separate charging case). Its fast-charging capabilities via Type-C and USB-A ports mean your devices get juiced up quickly, making it a versatile companion for any adventure.
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Key Features:
- Built-in 4500mA lithium battery.
- Wide compatibility (including GoPro Hero 4, Hero 5-13, and other action cameras).
- Waterproof to 98ft (30 meters) with external charging case.
- Fast charging: Type-C and USB-A outputs (up to 20W max).
- Comprehensive safety protections (overcharging, short circuits, etc.).
- Incredibly compact size (3.2×1.7×2.2 in).
- Fully charges in about 2.5 hours with a 5V, 3A adapter.
- Durable stainless steel and PC material construction.
- Includes two fast charging cables, thumbscrew, quick release mount, wrench.
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Pros:
- Very compact and portable.
- Fast charging output.
- Waterproof capability (with accessory).
- Can charge camera while in use (with accessory).
- Excellent safety features.
- Versatile charging options (Type-C, USB-A).
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Cons:
- Lower capacity than the 7800mAh Suptig power bank.
- Waterproof charging case for the camera is not included.
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User Impressions: Users love its small footprint and quick charging. The ability to use it in wet conditions (with the right accessory) makes it very appealing for water sports enthusiasts. It’s often praised as a reliable and versatile portable charger.
- See it on Amazon here
Batmax 1680mAh 4-Pack High Capacity Gopro Hero 4 Battery
The Batmax 4-Pack of 1680mAh batteries is a straightforward, no-nonsense solution for maximizing your GoPro Hero 4’s uptime. This kit focuses purely on providing high-capacity, premium-grade replacement batteries designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications. If you already have a charger or prefer to use your camera’s own charging capabilities, this bulk pack of reliable batteries is an economical and effective way to ensure you’re always ready to capture the moment.
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Key Features:
- Four 1680mAh / 3.8V rechargeable Li-ion batteries.
- Premium Grade A cells for longer battery life and no memory effect.
- Compatible with GoPro AHDBT-401 HERO4 Black and Silver Cameras.
- CE certified.
- 30-Day Money-Back, Two Years Warranty.
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Pros:
- High capacity for extended shooting.
- Excellent value for four batteries.
- Reliable and safe (CE certified).
- Strong warranty support.
- Simple, effective power expansion.
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Cons:
- Does not include a charger (assumes you have one).
- Requires swapping batteries.
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate the high capacity and the consistent performance of these batteries. They are often chosen for their affordability and reliability as direct replacements for the original GoPro Hero 4 battery, providing ample backup power.
- See it on Amazon here
PowerTrust 2 Pack AHDBT-401 Battery and LCD Dual USB Charger
Rounding out our list is the PowerTrust 2-Pack with an LCD Dual USB Charger, a balanced option for those needing reliable backup power for their GoPro Hero 4. This kit provides two high-quality replacement batteries and a smart LCD charger that gives you precise charging status, eliminating guesswork. It’s a fantastic choice for everyday use, ensuring you always have a fully charged spare battery ready to go.
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Key Features:
- Two 1680mAh AHDBT-401 rechargeable Li-ion batteries with premium cells.
- LCD Dual USB Charger for precise charging status display.
- High Energy Density, Extra Long Life, Memory Free.
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 4 Battery (HERO4 Black, HERO4 Silver, HERO4 Session).
- Provides shooting duration comparable to original batteries.
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Pros:
- LCD screen provides clear charging information.
- High-quality batteries with good capacity.
- Dual charger is convenient.
- Good performance, comparable to OEM batteries.
- Compact and easy to carry.
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Cons:
- Only two batteries included, less than some other packs.
- No wall adapter included.
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User Impressions: Users are particularly fond of the LCD display on the charger, finding it very helpful. The batteries are generally reported to hold a charge well and perform reliably, making this a solid choice for dependable backup power.
- See it on Amazon here
Why You Need a Good External Battery Pack for Your GoPro Hero 4
Even though the GoPro Hero 4 is a workhorse, its built-in battery can only go so far. An external battery pack for GoPro Hero 4 isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for several reasons:
- Extended Recording Time: This is the most obvious benefit. Whether you’re capturing a long time-lapse, a multi-hour hike, or an entire day at the beach, an external power source ensures your camera keeps rolling.
- Peace of Mind: Nothing kills the creative vibe like a low battery warning. Having backup power means you can focus on the moment, not on conserving battery life.
- Versatility: Many power banks can charge other devices too, like your smartphone or GPS, making them multi-purpose tools for any adventure.
- Convenience: Charging multiple batteries at once, or charging your camera on the go, is far more convenient than hunting for an outlet every few hours.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your GoPro Hero 4 External Battery Pack
When picking the best external battery pack for GoPro Hero 4, keep these points in mind:
- Capacity (mAh): Higher mAh means more power. For power banks, aim for at least 5000mAh for decent extended use. For replacement batteries, look for 1600mAh+ for better performance.
- Portability: How big and heavy is it? Will it fit easily in your camera bag or pocket?
- Charging Speed: Look for fast-charging capabilities, both for the power bank itself and its output to your GoPro.
- Durability & Water Resistance: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a rugged and potentially waterproof option is a huge plus.
- Compatibility: Ensure the product explicitly states compatibility with your GoPro Hero 4 (Black or Silver edition). Some newer batteries for Hero 5/6/7/8 look similar but won’t fit or work correctly with the Hero 4.
- Charger Features: For battery kits, consider how many slots the charger has, if it has an LCD screen, and what input (USB-A, Type-C) it uses.
Conclusion
Don’t let a dead battery cut short your next adventure. Investing in the best external battery pack for GoPro Hero 4 is one of the smartest upgrades you can make to your action camera setup. Whether you opt for a high-capacity portable power bank that charges your camera on the fly or a kit with multiple replacement batteries and a rapid charger, you’ll gain the freedom to capture every thrilling moment without interruption. Pick the solution that best fits your shooting style and power needs, and get back to making memories!
FAQ Section
Q1: What’s the difference between a portable power bank and a replacement battery kit for my GoPro Hero 4?
A1: A portable power bank (like the Suptig 7800mAh or 4500mA) is an external device that plugs into your GoPro (or its waterproof charging case) to provide continuous power or recharge its internal battery. A replacement battery kit (like those from Batmax or PowerTrust) provides new, charged batteries that you swap into your GoPro when the original one dies. Both extend your shooting time, but one charges externally while the other replaces the internal power source.
Q2: Will these external battery packs work with both GoPro Hero 4 Black and Hero 4 Silver?
A2: Yes, almost all external battery packs and replacement batteries designed for the GoPro Hero 4 (model AHDBT-401) are compatible with both the Hero 4 Black and Hero 4 Silver editions. Always double-check the product description to confirm compatibility.
Q3: How long do these external battery packs typically extend my GoPro Hero 4’s battery life?
A3: This depends on the capacity of the external battery (measured in mAh) and your GoPro’s usage (recording resolution, Wi-Fi usage, etc.). A typical 1600mAh replacement battery can add another 1-2 hours of recording time. A larger power bank (e.g., 7800mAh) could provide multiple full charges, potentially extending your recording time by 6-10 hours or more.
Q4: Can I charge my GoPro Hero 4 while it’s recording using an external battery pack?
A4: Yes, many portable power banks allow for “pass-through charging,” meaning you can power your GoPro while it records. However, if using it underwater, you’ll need a specific waterproof charging case for your GoPro Hero 4 that allows external power input while maintaining its waterproof seal.
Q5: Is it safe to use third-party batteries or chargers with my GoPro Hero 4?
A5: Generally, yes, as long as they are from reputable brands and have safety certifications (like CE, FCC, RoHS). The products reviewed here are designed with safety features like overcharge, short-circuit, and overheating protection. Always purchase from trusted sources and read user reviews.
Q6: How long does it take to charge a GoPro Hero 4 battery with these external chargers?
A6: Charging times vary. Smaller replacement batteries (around 1600mAh) typically charge in 2-3 hours using a dual or triple slot charger with a 1A adapter. Larger external power banks (like 7800mAh) might take 7 hours or more to fully charge themselves, depending on the input adapter’s power. Fast-charging power banks can charge quicker.
Q7: Do these batteries suffer from “memory effect”?
A7: Most modern external batteries and replacement batteries use lithium-ion (Li-ion) technology, which generally does not suffer from the “memory effect.” This means you can charge them whenever it’s convenient without worrying about degrading their capacity by not fully discharging them first.
