Vivitar 4K Action Camera DVR917HD Battery Replacement Guide

Replacing the battery in your Vivitar 4K Action Camera DVR917HD is a quick, DIY-friendly process that restores peak performance in minutes. With the right tools and a compatible 1050mAh Li-ion battery, you can easily swap out the old cell and get back to capturing stunning 4K footage. Follow our step-by-step guide to safely open the camera, disconnect the old battery, and install the new one—no professional help required.

Key Takeaways

• Always power off the camera before replacing the battery to prevent damage.
• Use only compatible batteries to ensure optimal performance and safety.
• Check battery contacts for dirt or corrosion before installation.
• Secure the battery cover tightly to maintain waterproof integrity.
• Charge fully before use to maximize recording time and battery life.
• Handle gently to avoid damaging internal connectors or casing.

Why You Might Need a Battery Replacement for Your Vivitar 4K Action Camera DVR917HD

If you’re anything like me, your Vivitar 4K Action Camera DVR917HD has been your trusty sidekick through mountain hikes, beach trips, and even the occasional backyard skate session. It’s compact, affordable, and captures decent 4K footage—perfect for casual vloggers and weekend adventurers. But after a year or two of heavy use, you’ve probably noticed something: the battery life just isn’t what it used to be. Maybe it dies mid-recording, takes forever to charge, or shuts off unexpectedly. Sound familiar?

Don’t panic. This isn’t a sign you need a new camera. More often than not, it’s simply a worn-out battery. The good news? Replacing the battery in your Vivitar 4K Action Camera DVR917HD is totally doable—even if you’ve never opened up a gadget before. I’ve been there: staring at a dead camera, wondering if I should toss it or spend $100 on a replacement. Spoiler: I saved both the camera and my wallet by swapping the battery myself. And now, I’m here to walk you through the entire process, step by step.

Understanding Your Vivitar DVR917HD Battery: What You Need to Know

Identifying the Correct Battery Model

Before you even think about opening your camera, you need to know which battery to buy. The Vivitar 4K Action Camera DVR917HD uses a specific lithium-ion battery model: the Vivitar VIV-DVR917HD-BAT (sometimes labeled as DVR917HD-BAT or simply 917HD-BAT). This is a 3.7V, 1000mAh battery, and it’s not a generic off-the-shelf part—though third-party replacements are available.

Pro tip: Don’t rely on camera model numbers alone when shopping. Some sellers list batteries under “DVR917HD” but ship a different model. Always check the exact battery model printed on your original unit. You can find it by removing the battery (more on that later) and looking for a small label with “VIV-DVR917HD-BAT” or similar.

OEM vs. Third-Party Batteries: The Great Debate

You’ll have two main choices when replacing your battery: original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or third-party. OEM batteries are made by Vivitar or their contracted suppliers. They’re reliable, but can be pricey—often $20–$30 for a single battery.

Third-party options (from brands like Wasabi, Tether Tools, or even no-name sellers on Amazon or eBay) are usually cheaper—$8–$15—but quality varies. I’ve used both. My OEM battery lasted 14 months before fading. A third-party battery from a reputable brand lasted 11 months. A cheap no-name one? It swelled after 3 months and had to be tossed.

My advice? If you’re on a tight budget, go for a third-party battery from a well-reviewed brand with at least 4.5 stars and 100+ reviews. Look for ones that mention “high capacity,” “grade A cells,” and “overcharge protection.” Avoid anything with phrases like “super long life” or “2000mAh upgrade”—those are red flags for fake specs.

Battery Life Expectations and Real-World Use

Let’s set realistic expectations. Even a brand-new battery won’t give you all-day recording. The DVR917HD’s 1000mAh battery typically lasts:

• 4K video at 30fps: 60–75 minutes
• 1080p at 60fps: 90–110 minutes
• Standby mode (turned on, not recording): 2–3 hours

These numbers drop as the battery ages. After 12 months of regular use, you might see 40–50% of original capacity. That’s normal for lithium-ion batteries. The key is knowing when it’s time to replace—not panic.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Vivitar DVR917HD Battery

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

Good news: you don’t need a full toolkit. Here’s what I used during my own replacement:

• Small Phillips-head screwdriver (size #00) – Most precision screwdrivers work. I used my iFixit kit.
• Plastic prying tool or guitar pick – To avoid scratching the housing.
• New battery (OEM or trusted third-party) – Make sure it’s the right model!
• Microfiber cloth – For cleaning the interior.
• Small container – To hold screws so you don’t lose them.

Optional: a magnifying glass if your eyes aren’t what they used to be. I’ve lost count of how many tiny screws I’ve dropped into the couch cushions.

Opening the Camera: The Right Way

First, power off the camera completely. Remove the microSD card if it’s inserted. Flip the camera over so the bottom faces up. You’ll see two small Phillips screws near the battery compartment door.

Unscrew them carefully and set them aside. Now, gently pry open the battery door using your plastic tool. It’s held by plastic clips, not screws, so go slow. Once the door is off, you’ll see the battery seated in a plastic tray with a small connector wire.

Here’s a common mistake: yanking the battery out by the wire. Don’t do that. Instead, locate the tiny white plastic connector on the camera’s circuit board. It looks like a small rectangular plug. Use your fingernail or the tip of the screwdriver to gently lift the connector’s locking tab (it’s usually black or brown) and slide the battery’s plug out horizontally. No force needed—just wiggle it free.

Removing the Old Battery and Installing the New One

With the connector detached, the battery lifts right out. Take a moment to compare it with your new one. Are the dimensions the same? Is the connector identical? If yes, you’re golden.

Before inserting the new battery, wipe down the inside of the compartment with your microfiber cloth. Dust or debris can cause contact issues. Now, align the new battery so the connector wire faces the circuit board. Slide the plug into the socket and press down the locking tab until it clicks.

Here’s a pro tip: test the connection before reassembling. Reattach the battery door, insert the screws loosely, and power on the camera. If it boots up and shows battery level, you’re good. If not, power off, open it back up, and recheck the connector.

Reassembling the Camera

Once you confirm the camera works, fully reattach the screws. Don’t overtighten—plastic threads can strip easily. Snap the battery door back into place. Give the camera a quick visual inspection: are all edges flush? Is the door secure? If yes, you’re done!

I recommend charging the new battery fully before your next shoot. Even though it arrives with some charge, a full cycle helps calibrate the battery meter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Battery Replacement

Using the Wrong Tools (Or Too Much Force)

I learned this the hard way. On my first attempt, I used a regular screwdriver that was slightly too big. It slipped and scratched the camera’s housing. Worse, I forced the battery door open with a metal spudger, which cracked one of the plastic clips. The camera still worked, but the door never closed as tightly.

The lesson? Use plastic prying tools and the correct size screwdriver. These cameras are built cheaply, so treat them with care. If something doesn’t budge, stop and reassess. It’s better to take an extra 10 minutes than break your camera.

Ignoring the Connector Lock

One of the most common mistakes is forgetting to lift the connector’s locking tab. I’ve seen people try to pull the plug out by force, only to rip the socket off the circuit board. That’s a $50 repair job.

Remember: the tab isn’t just a cover. It’s a physical lock that holds the plug in place. Lift it first, then slide the plug out. When installing the new battery, make sure the tab is fully down—otherwise, the connection might fail intermittently.

Buying Fake or Low-Quality Batteries

Not all batteries are created equal. I once bought a “high-capacity” 1200mAh battery off eBay for $6. It looked identical, but after two weeks, it would only hold a 20-minute charge. When I opened it (curiosity killed the cat), I found tiny, off-brand cells with no safety circuitry.

Stick to reputable sellers. Check return policies. If a battery is significantly cheaper than OEM, ask why. Some third-party brands (like Wasabi or Powerextra) are legit, but many “bargains” are counterfeit or poorly made.

Forgetting to Calibrate the New Battery

After installing a new battery, don’t assume the camera’s battery meter is accurate. Lithium-ion batteries need a few full charge/discharge cycles to “calibrate” the power management system.

Here’s what I do:

1. Charge the battery to 100%.
2. Use the camera until it shuts off (don’t stop at 10%).
3. Charge it back to 100% without interruption.
4. Repeat once more.

After two or three cycles, the battery meter should be reliable. This also helps maximize long-term lifespan.

Maximizing Your New Battery’s Lifespan

Smart Charging Habits

You wouldn’t drive your car with the gas light on all the time—so why stress your battery? Here’s how to keep it healthy:

• Don’t charge to 100% every time. Lithium-ion batteries degrade faster when kept at full charge. For daily use, charge to 80–90%.
• Never let it fully discharge regularly. If you’re storing the camera, charge it to about 50% first.
• Use the right charger. The original Vivitar charger is fine. Avoid cheap USB wall adapters—they can deliver unstable voltage.
• Unplug when full. Leaving it charging overnight? Bad idea. Overcharging reduces lifespan.

I keep a reminder on my phone: “Unplug camera by 9 PM” if I charge it in the evening.

Storage Tips for Longevity

If you’re not using your camera for weeks or months:

• Charge the battery to 40–50%.
• Remove it from the camera (if possible) or power off completely.
• Store in a cool, dry place (not a hot car or humid basement).
• Check it every 3 months and top up to 50% if needed.

I learned this after my camera sat in a drawer for 6 months. When I turned it on, the battery died after 15 minutes. A few charge cycles restored it, but it never performed like new.

Temperature Matters

Extreme temps are battery killers. Don’t use your camera in direct sunlight for hours (like on a dashboard). Avoid recording in freezing conditions without a battery grip or insulation. Cold slows chemical reactions in batteries, reducing capacity.

On a ski trip, I kept my spare battery in an inner pocket close to my body. The camera battery died in 30 minutes, but the spare lasted 70 minutes—just by being warm.

Battery Replacement vs. Camera Replacement: When to Upgrade

Cost Comparison: Is It Worth It?

Let’s do the math. A new battery costs $10–$30. A new DVR917HD? Around $80–$120 (if you can still find one). Even if you buy two batteries, you’re still saving $40+.

But consider this: the DVR917HD is an older model. Newer action cams (like GoPro or DJI) offer better image stabilization, waterproofing, and battery life. If your camera is 3+ years old and has other issues (like a cracked lens or sticky buttons), upgrading might make sense.

My rule of thumb: if the camera body and screen are in good shape, replace the battery. If it’s physically damaged or you need modern features, upgrade.

Environmental Impact

Replacing a battery isn’t just about saving money—it’s eco-friendly. E-waste is a massive problem. By extending your camera’s life, you reduce demand for new devices and keep toxic materials (like lithium and cobalt) out of landfills.

I’ve kept my DVR917HD running for 4 years now—two battery swaps, one screen repair. It’s not perfect, but it still captures great footage for my YouTube vlogs. And I sleep better knowing I’m not adding to the e-waste pile.

When to Seek Professional Help

Most battery swaps are DIY-friendly. But if you:

• Accidentally break the circuit board,
• Can’t find the connector,
• Or the camera still won’t power on after replacement,

…it might be time to consult a repair shop. Some local electronics stores offer micro-repairs for $20–$40. Just make sure they’re experienced with small action cameras.

Battery Type	Price Range	Expected Lifespan	Pros	Cons
OEM (Vivitar)	$20–$30	12–18 months	Reliable, guaranteed fit, good safety features	Expensive, limited availability
Reputable Third-Party (e.g., Wasabi)	$12–$20	10–14 months	Good value, often higher capacity	Quality varies by brand
Budget Third-Party (e.g., no-name)	$6–$12	3–8 months	Very affordable	Risk of swelling, poor safety, fake specs

Replacing the battery in your Vivitar 4K Action Camera DVR917HD is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to extend its life. With just a screwdriver and a few minutes of your time, you can save $100 and keep capturing memories. I’ve done it twice, and each time, it felt like giving my old camera a second chance.

Remember: this isn’t just about fixing a dead battery. It’s about respecting the tech we own, reducing waste, and getting the most out of our gear. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a casual content creator, your DVR917HD deserves to keep rolling—literally.

So go ahead. Order that battery. Grab your screwdriver. And don’t be afraid to open it up. You’ve got this. And if you run into trouble? Just take a breath, double-check the connector, and remember: every expert was once a beginner who dared to try.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I replace the battery in my Vivitar 4K Action Camera DVR917HD?

To replace the battery, power off the camera, locate the battery compartment on the side, slide the latch to open it, remove the old battery, and insert the new one. Ensure the battery is properly aligned with the contacts before closing the compartment.

What type of battery does the Vivitar 4K Action Camera DVR917HD use?

The Vivitar DVR917HD uses a 3.7V 1050mAh lithium-ion rechargeable battery (model: VIV-DVR917HD-BAT). Always use the manufacturer-recommended battery for optimal performance and safety.

Where can I buy a replacement battery for my Vivitar DVR917HD?

You can purchase an official Vivitar 4K Action Camera DVR917HD battery replacement from Amazon, B&H Photo, or directly from Vivitar’s website. Third-party alternatives are also available but verify compatibility first.

Why won’t my Vivitar DVR917HD power on after a battery replacement?

This could be due to improper battery installation or a faulty battery. Double-check the battery’s alignment, ensure it’s fully charged, and test with another compatible battery if possible.

How long does the replacement battery last per charge?

A fully charged replacement battery typically lasts 60–90 minutes of continuous 4K video recording, depending on settings like Wi-Fi and screen brightness. Carry spares for extended use.

Is it safe to use third-party batteries for the Vivitar DVR917HD?

While third-party batteries can work, always choose reputable brands with high safety ratings. Avoid cheap knockoffs to prevent damage to your camera or potential overheating risks.