Vivitar 4K Action Camera Battery Replacement Guide and Tips

Replacing your Vivitar 4K Action Camera battery is simple and ensures uninterrupted 4K recording on every adventure. Use only genuine Vivitar replacement batteries to maintain performance and avoid potential damage from third-party alternatives. Follow the camera’s quick-swap design for a hassle-free change and keep a spare charged for extended shooting sessions.

Key Takeaways

• Always power off the camera before replacing the battery to avoid damage.
• Use genuine Vivitar batteries for optimal performance and longer lifespan.
• Check battery contacts for dirt or corrosion before installation.
• Store spares properly in a cool, dry place to maintain charge.
• Charge fully before use to maximize recording time and efficiency.
• Handle with care—avoid dropping or exposing batteries to extreme temperatures.

Why You Might Need a Vivitar 4K Action Camera Battery Replacement

Let’s be honest: action cameras are built for adventure, but their batteries? Not always up for the same level of excitement. I learned this the hard way during a weekend kayaking trip in the Pacific Northwest. I had my Vivitar 4K action camera mounted to my helmet, ready to capture every splash and rapid. But just 45 minutes in, the screen flickered and died. I was left with half a memory card and zero footage. Turns out, the battery wasn’t just low—it was on its last legs. That’s when I realized how crucial it is to understand your camera’s battery health and when it’s time for a Vivitar 4K action camera battery replacement.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a vlogger, or someone who just loves documenting life’s little moments, running out of power mid-adventure is frustrating. The good news? Replacing the battery in your Vivitar 4K isn’t as scary as it sounds. In fact, with the right tools and a little patience, it’s a straightforward fix that can save you money and extend your camera’s life. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from recognizing the signs of a failing battery to choosing the right replacement and installing it safely. No tech jargon, no fluff. Just real, practical advice from someone who’s been there (and accidentally dropped a screwdriver into a creek).

Understanding Your Vivitar 4K Action Camera Battery

What Battery Does the Vivitar 4K Use?

The Vivitar 4K action camera typically uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery with a model number like BP-DC12 or BP-AC12—though this can vary slightly depending on the specific version (e.g., 2020, 2022, or 2023 model). It’s a compact, 3.7V, 1050mAh battery designed to fit snugly inside the camera’s rear compartment. Unlike some action cameras that use removable SD card-style batteries, the Vivitar 4K has a sealed design, which means you’ll need to open the back panel to access it.

One thing I’ve noticed is that Vivitar doesn’t always make the battery specs easy to find on the packaging or manual. So if you’re not sure, check the label on your current battery. You can also open the battery compartment (with the camera off) and gently pop out the battery to read the model number. This is crucial because using the wrong battery can damage your camera or even pose a safety risk.

How Long Should a Vivitar 4K Battery Last?

On average, a fully charged Vivitar 4K battery gives you 60 to 90 minutes of continuous 4K recording, depending on settings like resolution, frame rate, Wi-Fi usage, and whether you’re using the screen or an external monitor. In real-world use, I’ve found it’s closer to 70 minutes if you’re using 4K at 30fps with the screen on. If you’re shooting in 1080p or using power-saving modes, you might stretch it to 2 hours.

But here’s the catch: over time, all lithium-ion batteries degrade. After 300–500 charge cycles (about 1–2 years of regular use), you’ll notice the runtime shrinking. I had one battery that started lasting only 30 minutes after a year of weekly use. That’s a clear sign it’s time for a Vivitar 4K action camera battery replacement.

Pro tip: Keep a log of how long your battery lasts after each charge. A sudden drop (e.g., from 80 to 50 minutes) is a red flag. Also, if the camera shuts down at 20% or 30%, that’s not normal—healthy batteries should deplete evenly.

Signs You Need a Battery Replacement

Short Runtime and Rapid Drain

If your camera dies halfway through a short hike or a 10-minute vlog, that’s a big clue. Lithium-ion batteries lose capacity over time due to chemical aging. Even if you store your camera in a cool, dry place, the battery will degrade. I once left my Vivitar in my car for a week (big mistake—heat kills batteries), and when I used it again, it died in 25 minutes. That was the final straw.

Other signs include the camera powering off unexpectedly, especially when you press record or zoom. This can happen when the battery can’t deliver a sudden burst of power. Think of it like an old phone that shuts down at 15%—it’s not the software; it’s the battery struggling to meet demand.

Battery Swelling or Physical Damage

Here’s something you should never ignore: battery swelling. If your battery looks puffy, bulging, or if the back panel of your camera won’t close properly, stop using it immediately. Swollen batteries can damage the camera’s internal components or, in rare cases, leak or catch fire. I’ve seen this happen with a friend’s GoPro, and it wasn’t pretty.

Also, check for cracks, discoloration, or corrosion (a white or green powdery substance around the contacts). If you see any of these, it’s time to replace the battery—no questions asked.

Charging Issues

Does your battery take forever to charge? Or does it show “charging” but never reach 100%? These are classic signs of a failing battery. A healthy lithium-ion battery should charge from 0 to 100% in about 2–3 hours using the original charger. If it’s taking 5+ hours or stopping at 80%, the battery is likely degraded.

One trick I use: charge the battery fully, then use it until it dies. If it lasts less than half the original runtime, it’s time for a Vivitar 4K action camera battery replacement. Also, avoid leaving the battery plugged in overnight. Overcharging can accelerate wear, even with modern chargers.

Choosing the Right Replacement Battery

OEM vs. Third-Party Batteries: What’s the Difference?

This is where things get tricky. You’ve got two main options: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) batteries from Vivitar or authorized resellers, and third-party (aftermarket) batteries from brands like Wasabi Power, TOMSHEIR, or generic Amazon sellers.

OEM batteries are the safest bet. They’re made to Vivitar’s specs, so they fit perfectly, charge reliably, and come with a warranty (usually 1 year). The downside? They’re more expensive—usually $25–$40. I bought one once, and it worked great… for 18 months. Then it died. No surprise, really.

Third-party batteries are cheaper ($10–$20) and often claim “higher capacity” (e.g., 1200mAh instead of 1050mAh). But here’s the truth: not all third-party batteries are equal. I’ve tried two: one lasted just 6 months and started swelling, while another (from TOMSHEIR) is still going strong after a year. The key is to buy from reputable brands with good reviews and clear safety certifications (like UL or CE).

My rule of thumb: If it’s under $10, be suspicious. If it has no reviews or the seller is “CameraParts4U,” avoid it. Look for brands that specify the battery’s cycle life (how many charges it can handle) and overcharge protection.

What to Look for in a Replacement Battery

• Voltage and Capacity: Must match your original battery (3.7V, 1050mAh). Don’t buy a 4.2V battery—it can fry your camera.
• Connector Type: Some third-party batteries use a different plug. Make sure it matches your camera’s socket (usually a 3-pin JST connector).
• Safety Features: Look for batteries with overcharge protection, short-circuit protection, and temperature monitoring.
• Warranty: A 1-year warranty is a good sign of quality.
• Reviews: Check Amazon, B&H, or Adorama for user feedback. Pay attention to comments about swelling, charging time, and fit.

For example, the TOMSHEIR BP-DC12 is a popular choice. It’s 3.7V/1050mAh, has safety certifications, and fits snugly. I’ve used it for 14 months with no issues. Another good option is the Wasabi Power BP-DC12, which includes a dual charger—handy if you want spare batteries.

Step-by-Step Vivitar 4K Battery Replacement Guide

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these items:

• Replacement battery (OEM or trusted third-party)
• Small Phillips screwdriver (size #00 or #000)
• Plastic pry tool (or a guitar pick—I’ve used both!)
• Microfiber cloth (to avoid fingerprints)
• Anti-static wrist strap (optional but recommended)
• Good lighting and a clean workspace

Pro tip: Work on a non-conductive surface (like a wooden table) and keep a small bowl for screws. I once lost a tiny screw in my couch—never again.

Opening the Camera: A Gentle Approach

1. Turn off the camera and remove the SD card.
2. Locate the two small screws on the back panel (near the battery door). Use the Phillips screwdriver to remove them. Don’t lose them!
3. Insert the plastic pry tool into the seam between the back panel and the main body. Gently wiggle it to pop the clips. Be patient—forcing it can crack the plastic.
4. Lift the back panel carefully. You’ll see the battery connected to the camera via a small cable.

I’ll admit, I was nervous the first time I did this. But it’s like opening a smartphone—just go slow. If you feel resistance, check for hidden screws or clips.

Removing and Installing the New Battery

1. Use the pry tool to gently disconnect the battery cable. It’s a small white plug—don’t yank it. Wiggle it side to side until it pops out.
2. Lift the old battery out. Note how it’s positioned (contacts facing down, label visible).
3. Place the new battery in the same orientation. Make sure the cable isn’t trapped under the battery.
4. Reconnect the cable. It should click into place. If it doesn’t, double-check the orientation.
5. Replace the back panel and screws. Tighten them just enough to hold—don’t over-tighten.

After installing, power on the camera. If it boots up and shows battery life, you’re golden! If not, check the cable connection and battery orientation.

Common mistake: Forgetting to reconnect the cable. I did this once and spent 20 minutes troubleshooting before realizing I’d left it unplugged.

Maximizing Battery Life and Performance

Charging Best Practices

Even the best battery won’t last if you charge it wrong. Here’s how to keep it healthy:

• Charge at room temperature: Avoid charging in hot cars or cold garages. Ideal temp: 50–80°F (10–27°C).
• Use the right charger: Stick to the original charger or a reputable third-party one with the same voltage (5V/1A).
• Don’t charge overnight: Unplug when fully charged. Modern chargers have cut-off circuits, but it’s better to be safe.
• Partial charges are fine: Unlike old NiMH batteries, lithium-ion doesn’t need full cycles. A 20% to 80% charge is actually healthier for long-term use.

I keep my batteries at around 50% when storing them for long periods. It slows down degradation.

Usage and Storage Tips

• Turn off Wi-Fi and GPS when not needed: These features drain the battery fast. I disable them unless I’m doing a geotagged hike.
• Use a lower resolution: 4K eats power. For casual clips, 1080p at 30fps is plenty.
• Carry spare batteries: I keep two in my camera bag. One in use, one charged and ready. For long shoots, I swap them every 60 minutes.
• Store batteries properly: Keep them in a cool, dry place. A plastic case with silica gel packs works great.

One time, I left a battery in my camera for 3 months. When I used it again, it lasted only 20 minutes. Now, I remove batteries if I won’t use the camera for more than a month.

When to Replace vs. Repair

Not every battery issue needs a replacement. If the battery is fine but the charging port is loose, you might need a repair. If the camera doesn’t charge at all, the problem could be the port, not the battery. In that case, contact Vivitar support or a local camera repair shop.

But if the battery is swollen, cracked, or won’t hold a charge, replacement is the only safe option. Don’t try to “fix” a damaged battery—it’s not worth the risk.

Battery Replacement Cost Comparison Table

Battery Type	Avg. Price	Capacity	Warranty	Pros	Cons
Vivitar OEM	$30–$40	1050mAh	1 year	Perfect fit, reliable, safe	Expensive
TOMSHEIR BP-DC12	$18–$25	1050mAh	1 year	Good reviews, safety certs	Slightly bulkier
Wasabi Power BP-DC12	$22–$30	1050mAh	1 year	Includes dual charger	Fewer user reviews
Generic Amazon Battery	$8–$15	1200mAh (claimed)	None or 6 months	Cheap	Risk of swelling, poor fit

This table sums up your options. I’d skip the generic ones unless you’re on a tight budget and willing to take the risk. The TOMSHEIR and Wasabi Power batteries are my top picks for value.

Final Thoughts: Keep Capturing the Moments

Replacing the battery in your Vivitar 4K action camera isn’t just about fixing a dead device—it’s about preserving your ability to capture life’s adventures. I’ve learned that a little maintenance goes a long way. Whether you’re filming a mountain bike ride, a family picnic, or a sunset timelapse, a reliable battery means you won’t miss a thing.

Remember, the Vivitar 4K action camera battery replacement process is simple once you’ve done it once. Don’t let fear of breaking your camera stop you. With the right tools and a careful approach, you’ll have a fully powered camera ready for your next adventure. And hey, if you’re ever unsure, take photos of each step as you go—it makes reassembly much easier.

Lastly, treat your battery with care. Store it properly, charge it wisely, and replace it when it’s time. That way, your Vivitar 4K will keep rolling—just like your memories. Happy filming!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I replace the battery in my Vivitar 4K Action Camera?

To replace the battery, locate the battery compartment on the side or bottom of the camera, slide the latch open, remove the old battery, and insert the new one. Ensure the camera is powered off before starting to avoid damage.

What type of battery does the Vivitar 4K Action Camera use?

The Vivitar 4K Action Camera typically uses a 3.7V lithium-ion rechargeable battery, model number VIV-DC-001 (or as specified in your manual). Always verify compatibility before purchasing a replacement.

Where can I buy a genuine Vivitar 4K Action Camera battery replacement?

Genuine batteries are available on Amazon, B&H Photo, or the official Vivitar website. Check for seller ratings and “sold by” details to avoid counterfeit products.

How long does a fully charged Vivitar 4K Action Camera battery last?

A fully charged battery lasts approximately 90–120 minutes of 4K recording, depending on settings like Wi-Fi and screen usage. Carry spares for extended shooting sessions.

Can I use third-party batteries for my Vivitar 4K Action Camera?

While third-party batteries may work, they can pose risks like overheating or shorter lifespans. For optimal safety and performance, stick to OEM or reputable brands like Wasabi Power.

Why is my Vivitar 4K Action Camera battery draining too fast?

Fast drainage may result from outdated firmware, excessive screen brightness, or cold weather. Try resetting the camera, reducing settings, or storing the battery at room temperature when not in use.