Action Camera Battery Not Charging Here Is How to Fix It Fast

If your action camera battery isn’t charging, the issue is often a faulty cable, dirty charging port, or depleted battery—start by inspecting and cleaning the connections. Try a different power source or cable, and reset the camera to rule out software glitches. For persistent problems, replacing the battery or contacting support may be the fastest fix.

Key Takeaways

• Check the power source first: Ensure your outlet or power bank is working properly.
• Inspect the charging cable: Replace frayed or damaged cables immediately for reliable charging.
• Clean battery contacts: Wipe terminals with a dry cloth to remove dirt or corrosion.
• Try a different battery: Rule out battery failure by testing a known-good replacement.
• Reset the camera: Power cycle or factory reset to resolve charging glitches.
• Update firmware: Install the latest updates to fix charging-related software bugs.

Why Is Your Action Camera Battery Not Charging?

You’re all set for an epic weekend adventure—mountain biking through rugged trails, capturing stunning time-lapses at sunrise, and maybe even some underwater shots. You grab your action camera, press the power button… and nothing. The battery icon blinks red, and your heart sinks. You plug in the charger, wait a few minutes, but the battery still won’t charge. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. A action camera battery not charging is one of the most common (and frustrating) issues faced by action camera users—whether you’re a GoPro devotee, a DJI Osmo Action fan, or using a budget-friendly alternative.

Don’t panic. While it might feel like your camera is done for, in most cases, the issue is fixable. I’ve been there—stuck on a hiking trail with a dead camera, no backup battery, and a once-in-a-lifetime shot slipping away. After years of troubleshooting, testing, and learning from mistakes (and a few dead batteries), I’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you diagnose and fix this problem fast. Whether it’s a dirty charging port, a faulty cable, or a software glitch, this post will walk you through every possible cause and solution. No tech jargon, no fluff—just real, practical advice to get your camera back in action.

1. Check the Basics: The Most Common Culprits

Before diving into complex fixes, let’s rule out the simple stuff. More often than not, the action camera battery not charging issue stems from overlooked basics. Think of this as your “low-hanging fruit” checklist.

Inspect the Charging Cable and Adapter

It sounds obvious, but damaged or low-quality cables are a top cause. I once used a phone charger cable that *looked* fine but had a frayed internal wire. The camera would charge for 10 seconds, then stop. Here’s what to do:

• Swap cables: Use the original cable that came with your camera. If it’s worn out, try a high-quality third-party cable (look for USB-C PD or USB-A to micro-USB with 2A+ output).
• Test the adapter: Plug your cable into a different power source (like a wall adapter from your phone or tablet). If it works, your original adapter might be underpowered or faulty.
• Check for debris: Blow into the charging port or use a soft brush to remove dust, sand, or lint. A clogged port can prevent proper contact.

Pro tip: If you’re traveling, avoid using cheap USB ports on laptops or car chargers. They often lack the steady voltage needed for consistent charging.

Verify the Battery is Properly Seated

Action cameras often have removable batteries. If it’s loose or misaligned, the charging pins won’t connect. Try this:

• Power off the camera.
• Remove the battery, check for dirt or corrosion on the contacts, and gently clean with a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol.
• Reinsert the battery firmly until it clicks. Some batteries have a small tab—make sure it’s flush with the camera body.

Example: My GoPro Hero 9 once refused to charge. After removing the battery, I noticed a tiny piece of sand wedged under the contacts. A quick clean fixed it instantly.

Test with a Different Power Source

Not all USB ports are created equal. Try charging from:

• A wall adapter (5V/2A minimum)
• A high-capacity power bank (20,000mAh+)
• A desktop USB port (not a laptop, which often provides less power)

If the battery charges on one source but not another, the issue is with the original power source—not the camera.

2. Diagnose Hardware Issues: Ports, Batteries, and Internal Damage

If the basics don’t work, it’s time to investigate hardware problems. These can be trickier, but don’t worry—we’ll keep it simple.

Clean the Charging Port Thoroughly

Dirt, salt, sand, and moisture are the enemies of action cameras. Even a small amount can cause charging failure. Here’s how to clean it safely:

• Use a dry, soft-bristled brush (like a clean toothbrush) to dislodge debris.
• For stubborn gunk, dip the brush in isopropyl alcohol (70%+) and gently scrub. Let it air-dry for 5 minutes.
• Never use water, metal tools, or compressed air (which can force debris deeper).

Warning: If you see corrosion (green or white powder), the damage may be permanent. Contact the manufacturer—this often voids warranties if done incorrectly.

Assess the Battery Health

Batteries degrade over time. If your camera is over 1–2 years old, the battery might be the culprit. Signs of a failing battery include:

• Charging to 100% but draining in minutes
• Swelling or bulging (replace immediately—swollen batteries are a fire hazard)
• Taking much longer to charge than usual

Try a known-good spare battery (borrow one or buy a new one). If the spare charges, your original battery is likely dead. Most action camera batteries are replaceable—check your model’s specs.

Check for Physical Damage

Did your camera take a hard fall or get submerged? Internal damage can disrupt charging circuits. Look for:

• Cracks near the charging port
• Water damage (look for condensation under the screen or a red/white indicator inside the battery compartment)
• Loose screws or misaligned housing (which can misalign the battery)

Example: A friend’s DJI Osmo Action wouldn’t charge after a dive. The housing was slightly loose, allowing water to seep in. Tightening the screws and drying it in rice (yes, really) saved it.

3. Software and Firmware: The Hidden Fixes

Sometimes, the issue isn’t hardware—it’s software. A glitch, outdated firmware, or power management bug can prevent charging. Here’s how to reset and update your camera.

Perform a Hard Reset

A hard reset clears temporary glitches without deleting your photos. Steps vary by brand, but here’s a general guide:

• Power off the camera.
• Press and hold the power button + mode button (or as per your manual) for 10–15 seconds.
• Release when the camera restarts (usually with a beep or LED flash).

After resetting, plug in the charger. If it works, the glitch is fixed. If not, try the next step.

Update the Firmware

Outdated firmware can cause charging bugs. Manufacturers often release updates to fix these issues. Here’s how to update:

• GoPro: Use the GoPro Quik app or download the latest firmware from their website.
• DJI: Use the DJI Mimo app or DJI Assistant 2 (for desktop).
• Other brands: Visit the manufacturer’s support page and follow their instructions.

Example: My Insta360 One X2 had a charging bug in firmware v1.2. Updating to v1.3 via Wi-Fi fixed it overnight.

Check Power Management Settings

Some cameras have settings that affect charging. For example:

• Auto Power Off: If set to 1 minute, the camera might shut down before charging starts.
• USB Mode: Ensure it’s set to “Charge” or “File Transfer” (not “MTP” or “PTP”).

Navigate to your camera’s settings menu and disable any power-saving features temporarily while charging.

4. Advanced Troubleshooting: When the Usual Fixes Fail

If you’ve tried everything above and the battery still won’t charge, it’s time for advanced steps. These require more effort but can save your camera.

Test Charging in Safe Mode (If Available)

Some cameras have a “safe mode” that disables non-essential features. To enter it:

• Remove the battery.
• Hold the power button for 30 seconds (this resets the internal capacitor).
• Reinsert the battery and plug in the charger.

This forces the camera to focus solely on charging. If it works, a background app or setting might be interfering.

Use a Battery Charger Dock (For Removable Batteries)

If your camera has a removable battery, bypass the camera entirely. Use a dedicated battery charger (available for GoPro, DJI, etc.). These chargers:

• Charge batteries faster
• Have built-in diagnostics (e.g., LED indicators for battery health)
• Prevent camera port wear

Example: My spare GoPro battery wouldn’t charge in the camera. Using a third-party charger, it powered up in 30 minutes.

Check Voltage with a Multimeter (For Tech-Savvy Users)

If you have a multimeter, test the charging port’s voltage. Here’s how:

• Set the multimeter to DC voltage (20V range).
• Plug in the charger and insert the probes into the port’s positive and negative pins (refer to your camera’s manual).
• A healthy port should show 5V ±0.25V.

If voltage is 0 or unstable, the port or internal circuit is damaged. Time for professional repair.

5. Prevention: How to Avoid Future Charging Issues

Now that your camera is charging again, let’s make sure it stays that way. Prevention is always better than cure.

Store Batteries Properly

• Keep batteries at 40–60% charge if storing long-term.
• Store in a cool, dry place (avoid direct sunlight or freezing temps).
• Use battery cases to prevent short circuits.

Use Quality Accessories

• Invest in certified chargers and cables (look for CE, FCC, or USB-IF marks).
• Replace worn-out accessories before they fail.
• Consider a multi-battery charging station for frequent use.

Regular Maintenance

• Clean the charging port every 2–3 weeks (especially after outdoor use).
• Update firmware quarterly.
• Inspect batteries for swelling or corrosion monthly.

6. When to Seek Professional Help (And What to Expect)

If all else fails, it’s time to call in the experts. But first, know what to expect.

Warranty vs. Out-of-Warranty Repair

Check your warranty status:

• Under warranty: Most brands (GoPro, DJI, etc.) offer free repairs for manufacturing defects. Contact support with your proof of purchase.
• Out of warranty: Repairs cost $50–$150, depending on damage. Get a quote first.

Example: A cracked charging port on my GoPro Hero 8 cost $85 to fix out-of-warranty. Worth it—it lasted 2 more years.

Third-Party Repair Shops

For older models, third-party shops are cheaper but riskier. Look for:

• Certified technicians
• Warranties on repairs (e.g., 90 days)
• Positive reviews (check Google or Yelp)

Data Table: Common Charging Issues & Solutions

Issue	Likely Cause	Quick Fix	Prevention Tip
No charging indicator	Dead battery, faulty cable, or port	Try a spare battery and new cable	Use certified accessories
Charging stops at 80%	Battery degradation	Replace the battery	Store at 40–60% charge
Intermittent charging	Dirty port or loose battery	Clean port and reseat battery	Clean monthly
Slow charging	Weak power source	Use a 2A+ wall adapter	Always use high-output chargers

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Dead Battery Ruin Your Adventure

A action camera battery not charging can feel like the end of the world—especially when you’re miles from home. But as we’ve seen, most issues are fixable with a little patience and the right approach. Start with the basics (cable, port, battery), move to software fixes, and only consider hardware repairs if all else fails.

Remember: Prevention is key. Keep your accessories clean, store batteries properly, and update firmware regularly. And if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer or a trusted repair shop. Your camera is more than a gadget—it’s your adventure companion. With these tips, you’ll keep it powered up and ready for whatever comes next. Now go out there, charge up, and capture those unforgettable moments!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my action camera battery not charging?

This is a common issue often caused by dirty charging ports, faulty cables, or a drained battery. Try cleaning the port gently with a dry brush and using a different USB cable or power source to rule out connection problems.

How can I fix an action camera battery not charging quickly?

Start by restarting your camera and testing with a wall adapter instead of a computer. If the problem persists, reset the camera settings or update the firmware, as outdated software can interfere with charging.

Is my action camera battery dead if it won’t charge?

Not necessarily—deep discharge can make batteries appear dead. Leave the battery on the charger for 30+ minutes to revive it. If it still doesn’t hold a charge, the battery may need replacement.

Why does my action camera show a charging error?

Charging errors often stem from incompatible chargers or overheating. Use the manufacturer-recommended charger and avoid charging in hot environments to prevent this issue.

Can a firmware update help if my battery isn’t charging?

Yes, firmware updates often fix charging-related bugs. Check your camera manufacturer’s website for updates and follow their instructions to install them safely.

What should I do if my action camera battery overheats while charging?

Immediately disconnect the charger and let the battery cool. Overheating can damage the battery or camera, so ensure you’re using the correct charger and avoid covering the device during charging.