Can Action Cameras Record While Charging Find Out Now

Yes, most action cameras can record while charging, making it possible to capture extended footage during long shoots or time-lapses without interruption. This feature is especially useful for vloggers, adventurers, and content creators who rely on continuous recording and want to avoid battery limitations in the field.

Key Takeaways

• Most action cameras can record while charging if plugged into a power bank or wall adapter.
• Check your camera’s manual to confirm charging-while-recording compatibility and avoid damage.
• Use high-capacity power banks for uninterrupted long-duration recordings on the go.
• Overheating can occur when charging and recording—monitor device temperature closely.
• USB-C charging is ideal for faster, more stable power delivery during recording.
• External battery packs extend recording time without draining the internal battery.

Why You Might Need to Record While Charging

Imagine this: You’re on a weekend hiking trip, capturing breathtaking mountain views with your action camera. Suddenly, the battery warning pops up. You’re miles from your car, and you don’t want to miss filming the summit. Or maybe you’re a content creator setting up a time-lapse of a sunset, and the battery starts draining faster than expected. You plug in your portable charger, hoping it’ll last the night. But then you wonder—can action cameras record while charging?

This is a question I’ve asked myself more than once. Whether you’re a vlogger, adventure enthusiast, or just someone who wants to keep the camera rolling without interruptions, knowing if your action camera can record while charging is a game-changer. It affects how you plan shoots, manage gear, and even choose your next camera. The good news? Many modern action cameras can record while charging—but it’s not that simple. Some models do it flawlessly, others struggle, and a few flat-out refuse. In this post, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of recording while charging, share real-world examples, and help you decide if it’s a feature you truly need.

How Action Cameras Handle Power: The Basics

Before we dive into whether action cameras can record while charging, let’s talk about how they manage power. Unlike smartphones or laptops, action cameras are designed to be compact, rugged, and energy-efficient. That means every milliwatt counts.

The Battery and Charging Circuit

Action cameras use lithium-ion batteries, which are great for energy density and longevity. But they’re also sensitive to how power flows in and out. When you plug in a charger, the camera’s internal circuitry decides how to allocate power. It can:

• Power the camera directly (bypassing the battery)
• Charge the battery while powering the camera
• Stop recording to prioritize charging

The behavior depends on the camera’s design and firmware. Some models are built to handle dual tasks smoothly. Others can’t manage the load and shut down recording to protect the battery.

Power Input: USB-C vs. Micro-USB

Most newer action cameras use USB-C ports, which support faster charging and higher power delivery (up to 100W in some cases). Older models may still use Micro-USB, which limits power input and can cause overheating during simultaneous use.

For example, I once used an older GoPro Hero 5 with a Micro-USB cable and a 10,000mAh power bank. The camera kept restarting every 20 minutes—likely due to voltage drops. When I switched to a USB-C model (Hero 9), the same setup worked flawlessly. So, the charging port matters more than you might think.

Power Bank Compatibility

Not all power banks are created equal. Some have “smart” circuits that cut off power when they detect low current draw—common when a camera is recording. This can cause the camera to lose power even though the battery is full.

Here’s a tip: Use a power bank with a continuous output mode or one that supports “trickle charging.” Brands like Anker and RAVPower offer models with these features. I’ve had success with the Anker PowerCore 10000 PD, which keeps my DJI Osmo Action 3 running for hours.

Which Action Cameras Can Record While Charging?

Not all action cameras are equal when it comes to recording while charging. Let’s break down the major brands and models to see what works.

GoPro: The Gold Standard (Mostly)

GoPro has been refining its power management for years. Starting with the Hero 7 Black, most models can record while charging—especially when using USB-C.

• Hero 9, 10, 11, 12 Black: Can record while charging via USB-C. Works with power banks, wall chargers, and even car adapters.
• Hero 8 Black: Supports recording while charging, but may restart if the power input is unstable.
• Hero 7 and older: Mixed results. Some users report success, but many experience shutdowns due to Micro-USB limitations.

I tested my Hero 10 with a 20W USB-C charger and recorded a 2-hour time-lapse of a beach sunset. No issues. But when I tried the same with a 5W iPhone charger, the camera kept rebooting. So, use a high-quality charger with at least 18W output.

DJI: Strong Contender

DJI’s Osmo Action series is a favorite among vloggers. The Osmo Action 3 and Action 4 both support recording while charging via USB-C.

• They handle power delivery well, even with mid-tier power banks.
• The battery heats up slightly, but not enough to trigger thermal shutdown.
• DJI’s firmware includes a “USB Power Priority” mode that keeps recording even if the battery is low.

One caveat: The Action 3’s battery is removable. If you swap batteries while recording, the camera may stop. But with a continuous power source, it’s rock solid.

Insta360: Mixed Results

Insta360’s 360-degree cameras (like the One RS and X3) are powerful but power-hungry. Recording while charging is possible, but with caveats:

• The One RS can record while charging via USB-C, but the battery may not charge simultaneously—power goes to the camera first.
• The X3 struggles with high-resolution 360 videos (5.7K+) while charging. Lower resolutions (4K) work fine.
• Insta360 recommends using their official USB-C cable for best results.

Other Brands (Akaso, Campark, etc.)

Budget-friendly brands often cut corners on power management. Some can record while charging, but reliability varies.

• Akaso Brave 7 LE: Works with a 15W charger, but may overheat during 4K recording.
• Campark X30: Supports charging while recording, but the screen dims after 30 minutes to save power.
• Always check user reviews—many budget cameras have firmware bugs that cause random shutdowns.

When Recording While Charging Might Fail

Even if your camera can record while charging, several factors can cause it to fail. Let’s look at the common culprits.

Low Power Input

Action cameras need a stable power source. If your charger or power bank outputs less than 10W, the camera may not get enough juice. I once tried recording with a 5W charger and a 1% battery. The camera turned on, started recording, then died 10 seconds later. The power input was too weak to sustain both charging and recording.

Tip: Use a charger with at least 18W output and a high-quality cable. Look for “PD” (Power Delivery) support.

Overheating Issues

Recording while charging generates heat. Some cameras have thermal protection that kicks in when the internal temperature gets too high. This can cause:

• Sudden shutdowns
• Reduced recording resolution (e.g., 4K to 1080p)
• Faster battery drain

The DJI Osmo Action 4 has a metal frame that helps dissipate heat, but budget cameras often lack this. If your camera feels hot to the touch, stop recording and let it cool.

Firmware and Software Bugs

Not all issues are hardware-related. Some cameras have firmware bugs that prevent stable recording while charging. For example, an early firmware version of the GoPro Hero 10 would freeze when charging from a power bank. GoPro fixed it in a later update.

Always update your camera’s firmware. Check the manufacturer’s website or app for updates before a long shoot.

Power Bank Auto-Off Feature

Many power banks turn off after 30 seconds of low current draw. Since action cameras don’t draw much power when idle, the power bank may shut down, thinking the device is disconnected. This causes the camera to lose power—even if it’s still recording.

Solution: Use a power bank with a “continuous output” button or enable “trickle charging” mode. The Anker PowerCore Fusion 5000 is a great example.

Practical Tips for Recording While Charging

Now that you know the theory, let’s get practical. Here’s how to make recording while charging work for you.

Choose the Right Gear

• Charger: Use a 18W+ USB-C PD charger. Avoid cheap knockoffs.
• Cable: Use a high-quality, certified USB-C cable. I recommend Anker or Belkin.
• Power Bank: Pick one with 20,000mAh capacity and PD support. The RAVPower 20000mAh is a solid choice.

Pro tip: Test your setup at home before a trip. Try recording for 30 minutes with your chosen gear.

Optimize Camera Settings

Lowering the recording resolution or frame rate can reduce power draw and heat. For example:

• Switch from 5.3K to 4K if you don’t need ultra-high resolution.
• Use 30fps instead of 60fps for smoother battery life.
• Turn off Wi-Fi and GPS if not needed.

On my GoPro Hero 11, I save 15-20% battery by switching from 5.3K/60fps to 4K/30fps.

Use an External Battery Pack (Optional)

Some cameras support external battery packs. For example, the GoPro Volta grip adds 4 hours of runtime. It also lets you record while charging the main battery.

This is great for vloggers who need all-day recording. But it adds bulk, so it’s not ideal for action sports.

Monitor Battery and Temperature

Keep an eye on the battery percentage and temperature. Most cameras show a battery icon in the viewfinder. If it starts flashing, unplug and let it cool.

I once recorded a 3-hour time-lapse with my Action 3. The camera got warm, but the battery stayed at 60%. No issues. But when I tried 5.7K 360 video, the battery dropped to 10% in an hour—even while charging.

Real-World Scenarios: When It Matters Most

Let’s look at real situations where recording while charging can save your shoot.

Time-Lapse Photography

Time-lapses can last hours or even days. A dying battery means lost footage. With a power bank, you can keep the camera running all night.

Example: I set up a GoPro Hero 10 to capture a 12-hour time-lapse of a city skyline. I used a 20,000mAh power bank and recorded 5K video at 1 frame per minute. The battery stayed at 70% the whole time.

Vlogging on the Go

Vloggers often record for hours. A power bank lets you film all day without stopping. Just plug it in and keep talking.

Tip: Use a small power bank that fits in your pocket. The Anker PowerCore 5000 is lightweight and lasts 2-3 hours for most cameras.

Adventure Sports

For hiking, skiing, or biking, you may not have access to power. But if you bring a power bank, you can recharge on the go.

Example: During a 5-hour bike ride, I recorded with my Osmo Action 3. The battery dropped to 20%, so I plugged in a 10,000mAh power bank. It lasted the rest of the ride.

Security and Surveillance

Some people use action cameras as security cams. Recording while charging ensures 24/7 coverage.

Just be careful: Long-term recording can wear out the SD card. Use a high-endurance card like SanDisk Extreme Pro.

Data Table: Action Cameras That Record While Charging

Camera Model	USB-C?	Records While Charging?	Max Power Input	Notes
GoPro Hero 12 Black	Yes	Yes	20W	Stable with PD chargers
DJI Osmo Action 4	Yes	Yes	18W	Good heat management
Insta360 X3	Yes	Yes (4K only)	15W	5.7K may fail
Akaso Brave 8	Yes	Yes	10W	May overheat
Campark X40	Yes	Limited	10W	Screen dims after 30 min
GoPro Hero 7	No (Micro-USB)	Sometimes	5W	Unstable with low power

Conclusion: Is It Worth It?

So, can action cameras record while charging? The answer is yes—but with caveats. High-end models like the GoPro Hero 12 or DJI Osmo Action 4 handle it smoothly, while budget cameras may struggle. The key is using the right gear: a powerful charger, a reliable power bank, and a high-quality cable.

For me, this feature has saved countless shoots. Whether it’s a time-lapse, a vlog, or an adventure, not having to worry about battery life gives me peace of mind. But it’s not a magic fix. You still need to manage heat, monitor power, and test your setup beforehand.

If you’re buying a new action camera, look for models with USB-C and strong power delivery. And if you already own one, don’t assume it can record while charging—test it first. Because when you’re out in the wild, the last thing you want is a dead camera and a missed shot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can action cameras record while charging?

Yes, most modern action cameras can record while charging, especially when connected to an external power source like a power bank or wall adapter. This feature is useful for long-duration recordings, such as time-lapses or dashcam setups.

Is it safe to record with an action camera while charging?

Generally, it’s safe as action cameras are designed to handle simultaneous charging and recording. However, using a high-quality charger and avoiding overheating during extended use is recommended.

Do all action cameras support recording while charging?

Not all models do—some budget or older action cameras may stop recording when charging begins. Always check your camera’s manual or specs to confirm if it supports action camera recording while charging.

Can I use a power bank to record longer on my action camera?

Yes, a power bank lets you record for hours by continuously powering your camera. This is ideal for hikes, road trips, or any situation where you need uninterrupted action camera recording while charging.

Does recording while charging affect battery life?

It shouldn’t significantly impact battery health if done occasionally. However, frequent heat buildup from prolonged charging and recording may degrade the battery over time.

Why does my action camera shut off when I plug it in to charge?

This usually happens if the camera doesn’t support recording while charging or if the power source isn’t providing enough voltage. Try a different charger or consult your camera’s manual for troubleshooting.