GoPro Hero5 Black Waterproof 4K Video Action Camera Battery Life Review

The GoPro Hero5 Black delivers solid 4K video performance and true waterproof durability without a housing, but its battery life remains a key limitation. Expect 60 to 90 minutes of recording time per charge under typical 4K/30fps conditions, which falls short for extended adventures. While convenient USB-C charging and removable batteries help, power management is crucial for all-day action.

Key Takeaways

• 4K recording drains battery fast: Limit continuous 4K use to 60-90 mins.
• Carry spare batteries: Doubles recording time for extended adventures.
• Lower resolutions extend life: Use 1080p for longer sessions.
• Waterproof design impacts efficiency: Seal integrity affects power usage.
• Disable Wi-Fi/Bluetooth: Saves significant power when not needed.
• Cold reduces battery life: Keep spares warm in freezing conditions.

The GoPro Hero5 Black: A Trusted Companion for Adventurers

If you’re into action-packed adventures or love capturing life’s thrilling moments, you’ve probably heard of the GoPro Hero5 Black. Released in 2016, this camera remains a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, vloggers, and even casual users who want high-quality footage without lugging around bulky gear. One of the biggest selling points? It’s fully waterproof without needing an external housing—just toss it in your bag and go.

But let’s be real: no matter how sleek the design or how crisp the 4K video, if your camera dies halfway through a mountain bike descent or a snorkeling session, it’s not doing its job. That’s why we’re diving deep into the GoPro Hero5 Black waterproof 4K video action camera battery life. Whether you’re planning a weekend hike, a surfing trip, or just want to capture your kid’s first soccer game, understanding the battery performance can make or break your experience. So, grab a coffee, and let’s talk about what it’s really like to use this camera—especially when power is on the line.

Real-World Battery Performance: What to Expect

When I first got my GoPro Hero5 Black, I was excited about the 4K video and the waterproof feature. But after a full day of filming at a music festival (with lots of quick clips, time-lapses, and even some slow-mo), I realized something: the battery doesn’t last forever. And if you’re not prepared, you’ll end up with a dead camera and zero footage of the headliner.

How Long Does the Battery Last in Practice?

The official specs say the GoPro Hero5 Black battery (1220mAh) lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours when recording 4K video at 30fps. Sounds decent, right? But here’s the catch: real-world conditions often shorten that time. In my experience, here’s what I’ve observed:

• 4K at 30fps (standard mode): ~85–100 minutes
• 4K at 60fps (higher data rate): ~60–75 minutes
• 1080p at 120fps (slow-motion): ~70–80 minutes
• Time-lapse mode (10-second interval): ~1.5 to 2.5 hours (varies based on interval)
• Standby with screen on: Drains 10–15% per hour

One weekend, I took the camera on a 3-hour kayaking trip. I filmed in 4K at 30fps, with the screen on for framing shots and occasional GPS tagging. I also used voice commands (“GoPro, take a photo”) a few times. By the end, the battery was at 22%. Not terrible, but not great either—especially since I wanted to keep filming the sunset.

Factors That Drain the Battery Faster

Several things can shorten battery life beyond the resolution and frame rate. Think of them as “silent power thieves”:

• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: If you’re using the GoPro app to preview shots or transfer files, these features stay active and eat up power. I once left Wi-Fi on during a 2-hour hike—battery dropped 40% faster than expected.
• Screen brightness: The touchscreen is handy, but it’s a major energy hog. Cranking it to full brightness (especially in direct sunlight) can cut battery life by 20–25%.
• Voice control: Super cool, but the mic is always listening. I disabled it on long trips and saw a noticeable improvement.
• Temperature: Cold weather (below 10°C/50°F) slows down chemical reactions in the battery. I once used the camera in a snowstorm—battery died in 50 minutes at 4K/30fps. In warm conditions (25°C/77°F), I got closer to 100 minutes.
• Frequent start/stop recording: Each time you hit record, the camera powers up sensors, image processors, and storage. Doing this 50 times in an hour? That’s a battery killer.

Pro tip: If you’re doing short bursts (like action sports), consider using QuickCapture—it starts recording the moment you press the power button. It saves you from fumbling with menus and reduces idle time.

Waterproofing and Battery: A Delicate Balance

One of the Hero5 Black’s standout features is its waterproof rating of 10 meters (33 feet) without needing a case. That’s a game-changer for swimmers, snorkelers, and kayakers. But how does that affect battery performance?

Does Water Exposure Impact Battery Life?

Not directly—the battery is sealed inside the camera, so water doesn’t touch it. But here’s what *can* happen:

• Condensation and temperature shifts: When you take the camera from cold water to warm air (or vice versa), tiny droplets can form inside the lens housing. While this doesn’t damage the battery, it forces the camera’s internal systems to work harder to stabilize temperature, drawing slightly more power.
• Corrosion on contacts (if not dried properly): If you leave saltwater or chlorine on the USB port or battery contacts, it can cause corrosion over time. This increases resistance, making charging less efficient and potentially reducing battery lifespan.
• Increased screen use for framing underwater: Without a viewfinder, you’re stuck using the screen—which drains the battery. And since underwater visibility can be poor, you might check the screen more often, adding to the drain.

I learned this the hard way during a snorkeling trip in Thailand. I filmed for 45 minutes at 1080p/60fps (thinking I’d save battery), but kept adjusting the screen to check focus and framing. Plus, I had Wi-Fi on to preview shots on my phone. Result? Battery died with 15 minutes left in the dive.

Tips for Maximizing Battery While Underwater

• Rinse and dry thoroughly after use: Use fresh water to wash off salt, sand, and chlorine. Then, let it air-dry completely before charging.
• Use a dive housing for deeper dives: While the Hero5 is waterproof to 10m, using the Super Suit housing (rated to 60m) gives you peace of mind and reduces the risk of accidental water intrusion, which could lead to unexpected power issues.
• Pre-frame your shots: Set up your composition on the surface, then start recording. This reduces screen-on time underwater.
• Disable Wi-Fi and voice control before entering water: These features are useless underwater and only drain battery.

One friend of mine, a scuba diver, uses a dual-battery setup with a battery BacPac attached. He gets 3.5+ hours of 4K recording and loves the peace of mind. It’s bulkier, but worth it for deep dives.

Charging and Battery Management: Practical Tips

Even the best battery is useless if you can’t charge it efficiently. Let’s talk about how to get the most out of your Hero5 Black’s battery, from charging habits to storage.

Charging Speed and Options

The Hero5 Black comes with a standard USB-A to USB-C cable and a wall adapter. Here’s what I’ve found:

• Wall charger (5V/1A): ~2.5 hours for a full charge
• Wall charger (5V/2A): ~1.75 hours (faster, but not much difference)
• Car charger (5V/2.4A): ~1.5 hours (great for road trips)
• Laptop/PC USB port: ~3–4 hours (slow and inconsistent)

GoPro also sells a Dual Battery Charger that charges two batteries at once. It’s a lifesaver for multi-day trips. I keep one in my travel bag and one at home.

Battery Storage and Longevity

Like all lithium-ion batteries, the Hero5’s battery degrades over time. But you can slow it down:

• Store at 50% charge: If you’re not using the camera for weeks, charge it to 50% before storing. Full or empty batteries degrade faster.
• Avoid extreme temperatures: Don’t leave it in a hot car or a freezing garage. Ideal storage temp: 10–25°C (50–77°F).
• Charge in short bursts: Instead of letting it sit at 100% for hours, unplug when full. Overcharging doesn’t hurt (the camera stops charging), but heat from prolonged charging can.
• Use GoPro’s battery: Third-party batteries are cheaper, but they’re inconsistent. I tried one and got 30% less life than the original. Stick with GoPro or trusted brands like Wasabi Power.

After 3 years of regular use, my original battery still holds about 80% of its original capacity. Not bad, but I now carry a spare for long shoots.

Smart Charging Hacks

• Use a power bank: A 10,000mAh power bank can charge the camera 3–4 times. I use a Anker PowerCore with a USB-C output for on-the-go charging.
• Charge while recording (with limitations): You can plug in the camera while recording, but it only charges if the battery is below 90%. And if you’re using a power bank, make sure it supports pass-through charging (some shut off when a device is drawing power).
• Turn off the camera while charging: It charges faster when powered off. I do this when I have 2+ hours to spare.

Comparing Battery Life to Other GoPro Models

How does the Hero5 Black stack up against newer GoPros? Let’s break it down with a quick comparison. (Spoiler: newer models have better battery tech, but the Hero5 still holds its own.)

Hero5 Black vs. Hero6 Black

• Battery capacity: Same (1220mAh), but Hero6 has a more efficient processor and image stabilization, which reduces power usage during recording.
• Real-world life: Hero6 lasts ~15–20% longer at the same settings (e.g., 4K/30fps: ~100–110 mins vs. Hero5’s 85–100 mins).
• Charging: Both use USB-C, but Hero6 supports faster charging (0–80% in ~45 mins).

Verdict: Hero6 is better, but the Hero5 is still solid if you find it used or on sale.

Hero5 Black vs. Hero7 Black

• Battery capacity: Still 1220mAh, but Hero7’s HyperSmooth stabilization is more efficient, giving ~10% longer life.
• Features: Hero7 has a bigger screen, better app integration, and improved low-light performance—all of which can increase battery use if enabled.
• Price: Hero7 costs more, but if you’re buying new, it’s worth the upgrade.

Hero5 Black vs. Hero8 Black and Beyond

• Hero8: Same battery, but Enduro battery (sold separately) boosts life by 30% in cold weather. Also has better thermal management.
• Hero9/Hero10/Hero11: Larger 1720mAh battery, longer life (~2.5+ hours at 4K/30fps), and faster charging. But they’re heavier and pricier.

Bottom line: If you’re on a budget or already own a Hero5, it’s still a capable camera. But if battery life is your #1 concern, newer models (especially Hero9+) are worth the investment.

Maximizing Your Battery Life: Actionable Tips and Tricks

You don’t need to buy a new camera to get more juice. Here are practical, no-nonsense ways to extend your Hero5 Black’s battery life—no tech wizardry required.

Settings That Save Power

• Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Go to Preferences > Connections and disable them when not in use. Saves 15–20%.
• Lower screen brightness: Set it to 30–50% in bright light. Use Auto Brightness in variable lighting.
• Disable voice control: Found in Preferences > Voice Control. Saves ~10%.
• Use a shorter screen timeout: Set it to 10–15 seconds. Prevents the screen from staying on accidentally.
• Record in 1080p when possible: At 60fps, it uses 30–40% less power than 4K. Great for vlogs or casual clips.

On-the-Go Hacks

• Carry spare batteries: One extra gives you ~3 hours of 4K recording. Store them in a GoPro battery case to avoid short circuits.
• Use a solar charger: For multi-day hikes, a Anker Solar Panel can top up your power bank and camera.
• Film in bursts: Record 1–2 minute clips instead of long sessions. Reduces heat and power spikes.
• Turn off GPS: It’s cool for tagging locations, but it’s a battery drainer. Disable it in Preferences > GPS.

Long-Term Care

• Clean the battery contacts: Use a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol every few months.
• Update firmware: GoPro occasionally releases updates that improve battery efficiency.
• Use a battery monitor: The GoPro app shows battery level in real-time. Check it before starting a shoot.

I once did a 6-hour mountain biking trip with three spare batteries, a power bank, and all power-saving settings enabled. Result? I got 5 hours of 4K footage and had 20% left on my last battery. Not bad for a 7-year-old camera!

Conclusion: Is the GoPro Hero5 Black Still Worth It?

Let’s be honest: the GoPro Hero5 Black isn’t the newest or most powerful action camera on the block. But for its age, it’s still a reliable, waterproof 4K video action camera that delivers solid performance—especially if you manage its battery smartly.

The battery life isn’t perfect. You’ll need spares for long shoots, and you can’t ignore the power-hungry features like Wi-Fi and voice control. But with a few tweaks—turning off unused features, carrying extras, and optimizing settings—you can get through a full day of adventures. And let’s not forget: it’s waterproof out of the box, shoots 4K video, and has a simple, intuitive interface. For under $200 (used or refurbished), it’s a steal.

If you’re a casual user, a weekend warrior, or someone who wants to try action filming without breaking the bank, the Hero5 Black is a great choice. Just remember: battery life is what you make of it. Plan ahead, pack smart, and you’ll never miss the shot that matters.

So, is it time to retire your old GoPro? Maybe. But don’t count the Hero5 Black out yet. It’s a tough, capable little camera—and with the right care, it’ll keep rolling for years to come.

Data Table: GoPro Hero5 Black Battery Life by Setting

Recording Mode	Battery Life (Minutes)	Notes
4K at 30fps	85–100	Best balance of quality and battery
4K at 60fps	60–75	High data rate; drains faster
1080p at 120fps (slow-mo)	70–80	Less resolution, but high frame rate
1080p at 30fps	100–120	Best for long recordings
Time-lapse (10s interval)	90–150	Depends on interval length
Standby (screen on)	400–600	~10% per hour drain

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the battery last on the GoPro Hero5 Black during 4K video recording?

The GoPro Hero5 Black offers approximately 60-70 minutes of continuous 4K video recording on a single charge. Battery life may vary slightly based on settings like stabilization, frame rate, and temperature. For extended shoots, carrying spare batteries is highly recommended.

Can I replace the GoPro Hero5 Black battery myself?

Yes, the GoPro Hero5 Black uses a removable 1220mAh lithium-ion battery, making it easy to swap out for a spare. This feature is especially useful for long outdoor adventures where charging isn’t an option. Always use genuine GoPro or high-quality third-party batteries for safety.

Does the GoPro Hero5 Black’s waterproof design affect its battery life?

No, the waterproof design (up to 33ft/10m without a housing) doesn’t directly impact battery life. However, cold water environments can reduce battery efficiency, so performance may dip slightly during underwater use. Keep the camera warm when not in use to optimize power.

How can I extend the GoPro Hero5 Black’s battery life for longer recordings?

To maximize battery life, lower the resolution (e.g., 1080p), disable Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, and reduce screen brightness. Using a lower frame rate and turning off unnecessary features like voice control also helps. A fully charged backup battery is the simplest solution for all-day shoots.

What’s the charging time for the GoPro Hero5 Black battery?

The battery takes about 2-2.5 hours to fully charge via a standard USB connection. Using a fast charger or charging multiple batteries with a dual-bay charger can save time. The camera can also be powered directly via USB while recording.

Is the GoPro Hero5 Black battery compatible with newer GoPro models?

The Hero5 Black battery (model: AABAT-001) is compatible with Hero6 Black and Fusion models but not with Hero7 or later. Always check compatibility before purchasing spares. Using older batteries in newer models may result in reduced performance.