How to Charge Action Camera Battery 37V 1350mAh Safely and Efficiently

Always use a compatible charger with the correct 3.7V output to safely charge your 1350mAh action camera battery—this prevents overheating, overcharging, and potential damage. Monitor charging progress and avoid leaving the battery unattended for extended periods to maximize battery lifespan and ensure peak performance.

Key Takeaways

• Use the right charger: Always match the 3.7V/1350mAh specs to avoid damage.
• Charge at room temperature: Prevents overheating and prolongs battery life.
• Unplug when full: Stops overcharging and reduces fire risk.
• Check for damage: Inspect battery and contacts before every charge.
• Store properly: Keep at 50% charge in cool, dry places.
• Avoid fast charging: Slow charging boosts battery longevity and safety.

Understanding Your Action Camera Battery 3.7V 1350mAh

So, you’ve got an action camera—maybe it’s your first GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, or another popular brand—and you’re ready to capture epic mountain trails, underwater dives, or your kid’s first bike ride. But after a few sessions, you notice the battery life isn’t holding up. Or worse, you plug in the charger, and nothing happens. Sound familiar? If you’re dealing with a 3.7V 1350mAh action camera battery, you’re not alone. These small lithium-ion powerhouses are the heart of your adventure gear, but they need proper care to perform well and last longer.

Charging a 3.7V 1350mAh battery might seem simple: plug and go. But behind that tiny label lies a world of chemistry, charging protocols, and safety concerns. Overcharging, using the wrong charger, or exposing the battery to extreme temperatures can shorten its lifespan—or worse, cause damage. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a professional content creator, understanding how to charge your action camera battery safely and efficiently is key to keeping your camera rolling when it matters most.

What Does 3.7V 1350mAh Actually Mean?

Let’s break it down in plain English. The 3.7V refers to the nominal voltage of the battery. Think of it as the average “pressure” the battery delivers. Most lithium-ion batteries in action cameras operate around 3.7 volts, with a full charge reaching about 4.2V and a safe discharge limit around 3.0V. This voltage is standard across many brands, which is why third-party batteries often work—but more on that later.

The 1350mAh (milliampere-hours) tells you the battery’s capacity. In simple terms, it measures how much energy the battery can store. A 1350mAh battery can theoretically supply 1350 milliamps for one hour, or 675 milliamps for two hours. In real-world use, this translates to about 60–90 minutes of 4K video recording, depending on your camera model, settings (like image stabilization), and environmental conditions (cold drains batteries faster).

For example, my DJI Osmo Action 3 with a 1350mAh battery lasts about 75 minutes at 4K/60fps with stabilization on. But when I’m skiing in -5°C weather, that drops to around 50 minutes. Knowing your battery’s specs helps you plan shoots and avoid mid-adventure power failures.

Why Proper Charging Matters

Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive. They don’t like being fully drained or left at 100% for long. Every charge cycle slightly degrades the battery, but poor charging habits speed up the decline. Overcharging, overheating, or using low-quality chargers can lead to:

• Reduced battery life (shorter runtime over time)
• Swelling or leakage (a safety hazard)
• Sudden power drops during recording
• Complete battery failure

I once used a cheap USB wall adapter to charge my camera battery overnight. The next day, the battery wouldn’t hold a charge at all. It turned out the adapter had inconsistent voltage output—something I didn’t realize until I tested it with a multimeter. That mistake cost me a $40 battery. Lesson learned: treat your 3.7V 1350mAh action camera battery with respect.

Choosing the Right Charger and Charging Setup

Not all chargers are created equal. Using the wrong one can damage your battery or even create a fire risk. Here’s how to pick the right charging setup for your action camera battery.

Use the Manufacturer’s Charger (When Possible)

The safest and most reliable option is the original charger that came with your camera. These are designed specifically for your battery’s chemistry, voltage, and capacity. For example, GoPro’s dual battery charger uses smart charging technology that:

• Detects battery level
• Switches from fast charging to trickle charging as the battery fills
• Stops charging at 100% to prevent overcharging
• Includes thermal sensors to prevent overheating

I’ve used third-party chargers before, and while some work fine, others don’t stop charging at 100%. One even made my battery swell slightly. Not cool. Stick with the OEM charger if you can—especially if you’re charging overnight or leaving it unattended.

USB Power Sources: What Works and What Doesn’t

Many action cameras support USB charging, which is great for travel. But not all USB ports deliver the same power. Here’s a quick guide:

• Laptop USB port: Usually 5V/0.5A to 0.9A. Safe but slow—can take 3–4 hours for a full charge.
• Wall adapter (5V/2A): Ideal. Fast and stable. Look for UL or CE certified models.
• Car USB port: Often only 5V/1A. Works, but slow. Avoid if your camera draws more than 1A during charging.
• Power banks: Great for on-the-go charging. Choose one with at least 2.4A output and a stable 5V supply. Avoid ultra-cheap models.

Pro tip: Use a USB voltage tester (available for under $10) to check your charger’s output. I tested a $3 power bank once—it claimed 2.4A but only delivered 1.2A under load. My battery took twice as long to charge.

Avoid These Charging Mistakes

• Using damaged cables: Frayed or bent USB cables can cause voltage drops or intermittent charging. Replace them if they’re worn.
• Charging in extreme temperatures: Never charge below 0°C or above 45°C. Cold slows charging, and heat degrades the battery.
• Leaving the battery in a hot car: A sunny dashboard can reach 70°C—way too hot for lithium-ion.
• Using unregulated power sources: Solar chargers or DIY setups without voltage regulation can damage your battery.

When I’m hiking, I keep my spare 3.7V 1350mAh action camera battery in an insulated case with a small hand warmer in cold weather. In summer, I avoid direct sunlight and charge only when the camera has cooled down.

Step-by-Step: How to Charge Your 3.7V 1350mAh Battery

Now that you know what to use, let’s walk through the actual charging process. Whether you’re using a dedicated charger, USB cable, or charging case, follow these steps for safe and efficient charging.

Step 1: Power Down the Camera (If Charging In-Camera)

If you’re charging the battery while it’s still in the camera, turn the camera off first. Some models continue using power even when “off,” which can slow charging or cause the battery to drain while charging. For example, my Insta360 One X2 draws a small amount of power in standby mode. Turning it off fully speeds up charging by 20–30%.

Step 2: Use a Clean, Dry Connection

Dirt, dust, or moisture in the charging port can cause poor contact or short circuits. Before plugging in:

• Wipe the USB port and cable tip with a dry microfiber cloth.
• Check for corrosion (white or green residue). If present, gently clean with isopropyl alcohol and a cotton swab.
• Ensure the battery contacts in the camera or charger are free of debris.

I once had a battery that wouldn’t charge. After opening the camera, I found sand in the charging port. A quick clean with compressed air fixed it.

Step 3: Connect and Monitor the First 10 Minutes

Plug in your charger and watch the battery for the first few minutes. Look for:

• Charging indicator: Most cameras show a red LED or on-screen icon when charging.
• Warmth: The battery may feel slightly warm. If it gets hot (uncomfortable to touch), unplug immediately.
• Charging time estimate: Some cameras show a time-to-full. A 1350mAh battery should take 2–3 hours with a 2A charger.

My DJI charger has a green LED that blinks when charging and stays solid when full. If it flashes red, there’s an error—usually a connection issue.

Step 4: Avoid Overcharging

Never leave your battery charging for more than 24 hours. Even with smart chargers, prolonged charging can stress the battery. Best practice:

• Set a timer or use a smart plug with scheduling.
• Remove the battery once fully charged.
• If using a dual charger, charge batteries separately if you won’t use them soon.

I use a smart outlet to cut power after 4 hours. It’s peace of mind, especially when charging overnight.

Step 5: Store Properly After Charging

Fully charged batteries degrade faster when stored. For long-term storage (more than a week):

• Discharge to 40–60% first.
• Store in a cool, dry place (15–25°C).
• Check every 3 months and recharge to 50% if below 30%.

I keep my spare 3.7V 1350mAh action camera battery at 50% in a plastic battery case in my camera bag. It’s ready to go, but not degrading.

Maximizing Battery Life and Performance

Charging is just one part of the story. How you use and care for your battery affects its lifespan. A well-maintained battery can last 3–5 years. A poorly treated one might fail in 12 months.

Charge Cycles: What You Need to Know

A charge cycle is using 100% of the battery’s capacity, not necessarily in one go. For example:

• Using 50% today, then 50% tomorrow = 1 cycle.
• Fully draining and recharging = 1 cycle.

Most 3.7V 1350mAh batteries are rated for 300–500 charge cycles before capacity drops to 80%. To extend life:

• Avoid full discharges. Recharge at 20–30%.
• Use partial charges when possible (e.g., 30% to 80%).
• Keep the battery between 20% and 80% for daily use.

I charge my battery when it hits 30%, not 0%. It’s not as convenient, but my battery still has 90% capacity after 2 years of weekly use.

Temperature Management

Heat is the enemy. Every 10°C above 25°C cuts battery life in half. Tips:

• Remove the battery after charging to let it cool.
• Don’t charge immediately after a long recording session—let the camera cool first.
• In hot weather, use a reflective cover or keep the camera in shade.
• In cold weather, keep spare batteries close to your body (e.g., inner pocket).

During a desert shoot, I kept my spare battery in a shaded cooler. It lasted 20% longer than the one left in the camera bag.

Third-Party vs. OEM Batteries

Third-party 3.7V 1350mAh batteries are cheaper (often $10–15 vs. $30–50 for OEM). But quality varies. Look for:

• Reputable brands (e.g., Wasabi Power, Tether Tools).
• Certifications (CE, RoHS, UN38.3).
• Positive user reviews mentioning battery life and charging.

I’ve used third-party batteries successfully, but I test them first: charge, use, and check if the runtime matches the label. One brand claimed 1350mAh but only delivered 1000mAh. I returned it.

Troubleshooting Common Charging Issues

Even with the best care, problems happen. Here’s how to diagnose and fix common issues with your 3.7V 1350mAh battery.

Battery Not Charging: Quick Fixes

If your battery won’t charge, try these steps:

• Check the connection: Wiggle the cable. Try a different cable or port.
• Test the battery in another camera: If it charges, the issue is with your camera’s charging port.
• Reset the camera: Power off, remove the battery, wait 30 seconds, reinsert.
• Inspect the battery: Look for swelling, leaks, or discoloration. If present, stop using immediately.

My GoPro once refused to charge. A simple restart fixed it—software glitches happen.

Slow Charging: Causes and Solutions

If charging takes longer than 4 hours, consider:

• Weak power source: Switch to a 2A wall adapter.
• High ambient temperature: Move to a cooler area.
• Old battery: Capacity drops over time. Replace if runtime is under 50% of original.
• Camera settings: Disable Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and LCD if charging in-camera.

I disabled GPS and Wi-Fi while charging, and my charge time dropped from 3.5 to 2.5 hours.

Battery Swelling: What to Do

Swelling is a serious issue. Causes include overcharging, physical damage, or manufacturing defects. If you see swelling:

• Stop using the battery immediately.
• Store it in a fireproof container (e.g., metal box) away from flammable materials.
• Dispose of it at a battery recycling center—do not throw in the trash.

A friend’s battery swelled after using a cheap charger. We safely disposed of it and replaced it with an OEM unit.

Data Table: Charging Times and Power Sources

Power Source	Output	Charge Time (1350mAh)	Notes
Wall adapter (OEM)	5V/2A	2–2.5 hours	Fastest, safest
Wall adapter (generic)	5V/2A (certified)	2–3 hours	Check UL/CE certification
Laptop USB port	5V/0.5A–0.9A	3–5 hours	Slow, but safe
Car charger	5V/1A	4–6 hours	Use only if no other option
Power bank (2.4A)	5V/2.4A	2–2.5 hours	Ideal for travel
Power bank (1A)	5V/1A	4–6 hours	Not recommended for fast charging

Final Thoughts: Charging Smart, Shooting Longer

Charging your 3.7V 1350mAh action camera battery safely and efficiently isn’t rocket science—but it does take attention to detail. From choosing the right charger to avoiding extreme temperatures, small habits make a big difference over time. I’ve learned these lessons the hard way: lost footage, dead batteries on trips, and the frustration of a camera that won’t power on.

The key takeaways? Use quality chargers, avoid full discharges, store batteries properly, and never ignore signs of damage. Treat your battery like a trusted teammate, not just a replaceable part. A well-cared-for battery means more adventures, more footage, and fewer mid-shoot surprises.

And remember: your camera is only as good as its power source. Whether you’re capturing a sunrise, a mountain descent, or your dog’s first swim, a reliable 3.7V 1350mAh action camera battery keeps you rolling. So charge smart, shoot often, and keep exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I safely charge my 3.7V 1350mAh action camera battery?

Always use the manufacturer-recommended USB charger or dock designed for your specific battery model to avoid overheating or overcharging. Avoid leaving the battery charging unattended for extended periods, especially overnight.

Can I use a phone charger to charge my action camera battery 3.7V 1350mAh?

Yes, as long as the phone charger outputs 5V/1A or 5V/2A (standard USB power), which is safe for most action camera batteries. Ensure the charger is certified (e.g., UL, CE) to prevent voltage irregularities.

How long does it take to fully charge a 1350mAh action camera battery?

A fully depleted 1350mAh battery typically takes 2–3 hours to charge, depending on the charger’s output and whether the camera is in use during charging. Fast chargers may reduce this time slightly.

Is it safe to charge the battery while it’s inside the action camera?

Yes, most action cameras are designed to charge the battery internally via USB. However, removing the battery and charging it in a dedicated dock can prolong battery lifespan and reduce heat stress.

What are the signs of a faulty 3.7V 1350mAh action camera battery?

Swelling, excessive heat during charging, rapid power loss, or failure to hold a charge are red flags. If you notice these, stop using the battery immediately and replace it.

Can I overcharge my 1350mAh action camera battery?

Modern chargers and cameras have built-in overcharge protection, so leaving the battery plugged in briefly isn’t harmful. However, prolonged charging beyond 100% can degrade battery health over time—unplug once charged.