As we embrace the world of digital photography and videography, the importance of having a dependable gadget that won’t run out of battery power halfway through the day cannot be overstated. For adventure enthusiasts and content creators, the GoPro Hero 4 cameras add a unique thrill and perspective to the footage captured. However, one of the most common concerns from this user group is the battery runtime of the camera. So the million-dollar question is – how long does the GoPro Hero 4 battery last?
While the GoPro Hero 4 packs some impressive specs and features, its battery life often leaves users wanting more. The camera comes equipped with a 1160mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery that powers up the gadget for a decent amount of time. But the duration of the battery life tends to vary based on the usage, settings, and activity. Many factors come into play when it comes to battery runtime, and every GoPro Hero 4 user will experience different outcomes.
For those of you who are planning a long day out filming your adventures or your next vlogging project, it’s essential to understand the battery life of your GoPro Hero 4. Without proper knowledge, one may run out of battery life halfway through a day-long adventure, causing some major frustration. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the GoPro Hero 4 model’s battery life, talk about essential factors that impact it, and provide some tips on how to make the most out of your camera’s battery power.
Average Battery Life of GoPro Hero 4
The GoPro Hero 4 is one of the most popular action cameras available in the market. It is known for being compact and versatile, allowing users to capture high-quality footage in extreme conditions. However, one of the major concerns that users have is the battery life of the device. How long does the GoPro Hero 4 battery last?
The answer to this question varies depending on various factors such as usage, settings, and environmental conditions. According to the official documentation from GoPro, the average battery life of a fully charged GoPro Hero 4 battery is about 2 hours when recording at 1080p resolution and 60 frames per second.
- 1080p Resolution and 30 FPS – 2 hours 30 minutes
- 1080p Resolution and 60 FPS – 2 hours
- 720p Resolution and 60 FPS – 2 hours 15 minutes
It is important to note that the battery life can be affected by different factors such as the use of Wi-Fi, the presence of Protune, and other settings. For instance, enabling Wi-Fi on the camera can reduce the battery life by as much as 30 – 35 percent.
If you want to maximize the battery life of your GoPro camera, you can tweak some settings such as turning off the Wi-Fi, reducing the brightness of the display, and lowering the frame rate. Also, carrying a spare battery or an external power bank will ensure that you never run out of juice when you need it.
Battery Life in Cold Conditions
If you’re planning to use your GoPro camera in cold environments, it is essential to note that the battery life may be affected. The chemical reactions that occur inside the battery can slow down or even stop when the temperature drops below freezing.
According to GoPro, you can expect the battery life to be shortened to about half when the camera is used in cold conditions. So, if you’re planning to shoot in cold environments, it is recommended that you keep your spare batteries warm and carry insulated covers for your camera to help protect the battery life.
Battery Life Comparison
For a detailed comparison of the battery life of different GoPro models, you can refer to the table below:
| GoPro Model | Battery Life (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| GoPro Hero 4 | 2 hours (1080p and 60fps) |
| GoPro Hero 5 | 1 hour 30 minutes (4K and 30fps) |
| GoPro Hero 6 | 1 hour 30 minutes (4K and 60fps) |
| GoPro Hero 7 | 1 hour 15 minutes (4K and 60fps) |
| GoPro Hero 8 | 1 hour 5 minutes (4K and 60fps) |
As you can see, the newer the model of GoPro, the shorter the battery life. This is because of the additional features and better technology that come with the newer versions.
Overall, the battery life of the GoPro Hero 4 is pretty decent compared to its competitors, and with some simple tricks and tips, you can extend the battery life even further.
Battery lifespan with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on
When you turn on the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth feature of your GoPro Hero 4, you can expect a shorter battery lifespan. This is because these features consume a significant amount of power. Your camera’s battery lifespan may vary depending on the network connection you are using and the features of your camera application. Here are some things you need to know about the battery lifespan of your GoPro Hero 4 with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled.
- When using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, your GoPro Hero 4 battery lifespan can last for around an hour and 30 minutes or less, depending on how often you are using the connectivity features.
- When you are not actively using the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth feature of your camera, it is recommended to turn them off to save battery life.
- Be mindful of the range of your camera’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. If you are too far from your camera, it may require more power to stay connected, which will drain your battery even faster.
If you are planning long shoots and you need to use the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth feature of your camera, it is recommended to invest in extra batteries or portable power banks to ensure that you have enough power to last for the duration of your shoot. This will also give you peace of mind knowing that you won’t miss any important shots due to a drained battery.
Here’s a table to summarize the battery lifespan of GoPro Hero 4 with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled:
| Battery lifespan | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on |
|---|---|
| HERO4 Black | 1 hour and 30 minutes |
| HERO4 Silver | 1 hour and 30 minutes |
| HERO4 Session | 1 hour and 50 minutes |
Remember, to prolong the battery lifespan of your GoPro Hero 4, it is best to turn off the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth features when you’re not using them. Prepare extra batteries or portable power banks for extended shooting sessions. Don’t let a drained battery ruin your adventure!
Battery life with different video resolutions
One of the crucial considerations when using a GoPro Hero 4 is the battery life. The battery life of the camera varies depending on various factors such as the chosen video resolution.
When recording videos, the chosen resolution determines the amount of battery the camera uses. Here are the different video resolutions available in GoPro Hero 4 and their battery life:
- 720p/60 fps – 2hrs 15mins
- 1080p/30 fps – 1hr 50mins
- 1440p/30 fps – 1hr 45mins
- 2.7K/30 fps – 1hr 30mins
- 4k/30 fps – 1hr
As seen from the list above, using 720p/60 fps offers the longest battery life, while using 4k/30 fps offers the shortest lifespan. It’s also worth noting that using advanced features such as Protune and Wi-Fi connectivity can further decrease the battery life.
To keep your GoPro Hero 4 battery lifespan as long as possible, you should turn off the camera when not in use and use the lowest possible video resolution that will suit your needs.
Conclusion
Knowing the battery life of different resolutions helps you plan your video recording sessions and avoid running out of battery when you need it most. Always keep an extra battery handy, especially if you plan to use high-resolution settings or record longer videos.
| Video Resolution | Frames per Second | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|
| 720p | 60 fps | 2hrs 15mins |
| 1080p | 30 fps | 1hr 50mins |
| 1440p | 30 fps | 1hr 45mins |
| 2.7K | 30 fps | 1hr 30mins |
| 4k | 30 fps | 1hr |
Overall, the battery life of your GoPro Hero 4 depends on the video resolution and the camera’s advanced features used. Keep this information in mind to ensure you always get the best battery performance from your device.
Battery life when shooting photos
Unlike when taking videos, the GoPro Hero 4 battery lasts much longer when shooting photos. Several factors affect battery life when taking photos. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
- The type of photo taken (burst mode, timelapse, or single shot) affects battery life. Taking photos on burst mode uses more battery power compared to taking photos on a single shot.
- The higher the resolution, the more battery power is consumed. Taking photos at a high resolution like 12MP uses more battery power compared to taking photos at lower resolutions.
- Using other built-in features like Wi-Fi also affects the battery life. Turning off the Wi-Fi reduces battery consumption during photo taking or recording.
With an average use of GoPro Hero 4, one can expect the battery to last between 2-3 hours of continuous photo shooting. However, this time may vary depending on the photo resolution and usage of other features.
If you need longer battery life, it’s advisable to carry extra batteries or consider using an external battery pack. Additionally, you can save on battery life by turning off unused features, using a lower photo resolution, and taking shorter periods of continuous photo shooting.
Here is a typical battery life estimation when taking photos with different resolutions:
| Photo Resolution | Estimated Battery Life |
|---|---|
| 12MP | 2-3 hours |
| 7MP | 3-4 hours |
| 5MP | 4-5 hours |
By taking into consideration these factors, you can help prolong the battery life of your GoPro Hero 4 when taking photos.
Impact of temperature on battery life
One of the factors affecting the battery life of a GoPro Hero 4 is temperature. Extreme temperatures can cause a reduction in battery life or even cause the battery to fail to work altogether.
- The ideal temperature range for a GoPro Hero 4 is between 72°F and 95°F (22°C and 35°C).
- If the camera is used outside of this temperature range, the battery may discharge more quickly or the camera may shut off due to low battery.
- In particular, cold temperatures can have a significant impact on battery life. When the temperature drops below freezing, the battery life can decrease up to 50%.
It’s important to store and charge your GoPro Hero 4 at room temperature to keep the battery healthy. If you plan on using the camera in extreme temperatures, it’s recommended to bring along spare batteries and keep them warm until use.
If you’re curious about how different temperatures can affect your GoPro Hero 4’s battery life, check out the table below:
| Temperature | Battery Life |
|---|---|
| 72°F – 95°F (22°C – 35°C) | Good |
| 32°F – 72°F (0°C – 22°C) | Fair |
| -4°F – 32°F (-20°C – 0°C) | Poor |
| Below -4°F (-20°C) | Very poor |
Take note of the temperature range you’ll be in and use that information to plan ahead for your shooting needs.
Battery Life with Different Frame Rates
One of the main factors that can affect the battery life of a GoPro Hero 4 camera is the frame rate that it is set to. The higher the frame rate, the more power the camera consumes. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate battery life for different frame rates:
- 1080p at 30 fps – approx. 1 hour 50 minutes
- 1080p at 60 fps – approx. 1 hour 20 minutes
- 720p at 120 fps – approx. 1 hour
- 2.7k at 30 fps – approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
- 2.7k at 60 fps – approx. 1 hour 10 minutes
- 4k at 30 fps – approx. 1 hour
Of course, these times can vary depending on various factors such as the temperature, the condition of the battery, and whether or not Wi-Fi is enabled. It’s always a good idea to carry a spare battery or two with you if you plan on shooting for an extended period of time.
If you’re looking to conserve battery life, the best option is to simply reduce the frame rate. This will lower the quality of the video somewhat, but you’ll be able to shoot for longer periods of time. Another option is to turn off any features that you don’t need, such as Wi-Fi or Protune.
| Frame Rate | Recording Time |
|---|---|
| 1080p at 30 fps | Approx. 1 hour 50 minutes |
| 1080p at 60 fps | Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes |
| 720p at 120 fps | Approx. 1 hour |
| 2.7k at 30 fps | Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes |
| 2.7k at 60 fps | Approx. 1 hour 10 minutes |
| 4k at 30 fps | Approx. 1 hour |
Overall, the battery life of the GoPro Hero 4 is decent for a camera of its size and capabilities. With some careful planning, you should be able to capture all the footage you need without running out of power.
Charging time for GoPro Hero 4 battery
One of the most common concerns of GoPro users is how long the battery lasts. The GoPro Hero 4 comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Here is everything you need to know about its charging time:
- Charging with a USB cable – The GoPro Hero 4 battery can be charged using a USB cable. The charging time may vary based on the power source. Using a high-power USB charger can charge the battery faster, while a low-power USB charger takes longer. On average, it may take up to 2-3 hours to fully charge the battery depending on the charger used.
- Charging with a wall adapter – In addition to a USB cable, the GoPro Hero 4 can also be charged using a wall adapter. This process takes less time and may only take an hour or two to charge the battery fully.
- Charging while recording – You can continue to use the GoPro Hero 4 while it charges. However, keep in mind that using certain features such as Wi-Fi and high frame rates may increase the charging time.
It is always recommended to charge the battery fully before using it to maximize its lifespan. Additionally, avoid overcharging or charging with a damaged cable or charger, as it may damage the battery.
Here is a table with estimated charging times using different power sources:
| Power Source | Charging Time |
|---|---|
| High-power USB charger | 1-2 hours |
| Low-power USB charger | 2-3 hours |
| Wall adapter | 1-2 hours |
Remember to always check the charging progress through the battery level indicator to prevent overcharging or battery damage.
Third-party battery options
The GoPro Hero 4 battery life is a major concern for most GoPro users, especially those who take long trips or record extended footage. Fortunately, third-party battery options are available to extend the life of your GoPro Hero 4. These options come with different specifications and features, so it is essential to have the necessary information before making a decision. Here are some third-party battery options you may consider:
- Wasabi Power Battery – This battery is the most popular third-party option for the GoPro Hero 4. It has a capacity of 1160mAh, which is slightly higher than the 1160mAh stock battery that comes with the camera. This battery is also compatible with the GoPro Hero 3 and Hero 3+ cameras. It comes with two batteries and a charger for easy replacement while on the go.
- Anker PowerCore+ Mini – This battery option is perfect for those who want to charge their camera while on the move. It comes with a 3350mAh capacity that can provide up to two full charges to your camera battery. It is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
- Smatree Battery – This battery is similar to the stock battery, with a capacity of 1290mAh. It comes with two batteries and a charger, making it easy to replace and charge your batteries while on the go. It also has a dual USB charger that allows you to charge other devices simultaneously.
Factors to consider when choosing a third-party battery
When selecting a third-party battery option for your GoPro Hero 4, there are several factors to consider. These factors include battery capacity, brand reliability, and compatibility with your camera. It is also essential to consider the price, as some third-party batteries may be cheaper than others, but may not offer the same features or quality.
Battery life comparison table
| Battery Name | Capacity | Price | Compatibility | Number of Batteries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GoPro Hero 4 Stock Battery | 1160mAh | $19.99 | GoPro Hero 4 | 1 |
| Wasabi Power Battery | 1160mAh | $22.99 | GoPro Hero 4, Hero 3+, Hero 3 | 2 |
| Anker PowerCore+ Mini | 3350mAh | $19.99 | All GoPro Cameras | 1 |
| Smatree Battery | 1290mAh | $16.99 | GoPro Hero 4 | 2 |
| Re-fuel by Digipower Battery | 1160mAh | $24.99 | GoPro Hero 4, Hero 3+, Hero 3 | 1 |
In conclusion, third-party battery options provide an excellent solution to extend the life of your GoPro Hero 4 camera. However, it is essential to consider the different specifications and features of these batteries before making a purchase. With the right third-party battery, you can capture your adventures without worrying about running out of battery life.
Battery drain when not in use
One of the most frustrating things that can happen when you’re ready to capture some epic footage is finding out that your GoPro Hero 4 battery has drained while the camera was not in use. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as settings that aren’t optimized for battery life, extreme temperatures, or even just simply leaving the camera on for extended periods of time without recording anything.
- Turning off Wi-Fi and other connectivity features can help conserve battery life when the camera is not in use.
- In order to prevent the battery from draining unnecessarily, it is recommended to power off the camera when it is not in use for an extended period of time.
- Extreme temperatures can also affect the battery life of the GoPro Hero 4, and it is important to keep the camera within its recommended operating temperature range.
It is also important to note that, even when the GoPro Hero 4 is turned off, its internal systems still draw a small amount of power from the battery. This is known as standby mode, and while it may not drain the battery significantly, it can add up over time.
For those who want to get an accurate estimate of how long their GoPro Hero 4 battery can last when not in use, the manufacturer recommends fully charging the battery, turning off all connectivity functions, and leaving the camera in standby mode for 24 hours. After that period of time, the battery level can be checked to determine the amount of power that was consumed during that time.
| Mode | Battery life |
|---|---|
| Video (1080p30) | 1 hour, 50 minutes |
| Video + Wi-Fi | 1 hour, 20 minutes |
| Time-lapse video (0.5-second interval) | 2 hours, 45 minutes |
| Time-lapse video + Wi-Fi | 2 hours, 15 minutes |
In conclusion, although the GoPro Hero 4 is known for its powerful battery life, it is important to be aware of the different factors that can affect its performance when not in use. By optimizing settings, avoiding extreme temperatures, and paying attention to standby mode, users can prolong the life of their battery and be ready to capture their next adventure.
Effect of using accessories on battery life
The battery life of a GoPro Hero 4 camera can vary significantly depending on the accessories and features used. Here are some common accessories and their impact on battery life:
- External Batteries: These accessories can extend the life of your GoPro but will consume power from the external battery first.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Using these features can significantly decrease battery life. Turning them off when not in use can help conserve battery life.
- LCD Touch BacPac: This accessory is known to consume a lot of battery power. Using it can decrease battery life by 50-70%.
If you are concerned about maximizing battery life while using accessories, consider the following tips:
- Turn off features and accessories when not in use.
- Use an external battery or charger to keep your camera powered throughout the day.
- Consider using a backup battery during heavy usage or long recording sessions.
To get an idea of how long your battery should last with different accessories and features turned on, check out this table:
| Accessory/Feature | Battery Life |
|---|---|
| No accessories/features | 2-3 hours |
| Wi-Fi on, no accessories | 1.5-2 hours |
| Wi-Fi on, LCD Touch BacPac attached | 40-60 minutes |
| Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on, no accessories | 1 hour |
Keep in mind that these times are estimates and can vary depending on factors such as temperature, video resolution, and recording settings. By being mindful of the impact of accessories on battery life and taking steps to conserve power, you can ensure your GoPro stays charged and ready for action.
How Long Does the GoPro Hero 4 Battery Last?
Q: What is the battery life of the GoPro Hero 4?
The GoPro Hero 4 has a battery life of around 1-2 hours depending on various factors such as recording settings, temperature, and age of the battery.
Q: What affects the battery life of the GoPro Hero 4?
Recording settings such as resolution and frame rate affect the battery life of the GoPro Hero 4. Extreme temperatures and an older battery can also reduce its life.
Q: Can I extend the battery life of the GoPro Hero 4?
Yes, you can extend the battery life by turning off Wi-Fi, using a lower resolution and frame rate, and keeping the camera in a cool place.
Q: How long does it take for the GoPro Hero 4 battery to fully charge?
The GoPro Hero 4 battery takes around 2-4 hours to fully charge depending on the charging method and the battery capacity.
Q: Can I use third-party batteries in my GoPro Hero 4?
You can use third-party batteries in your GoPro Hero 4, but it is not recommended as it may damage the camera or the battery may not last as long.
Q: How do I replace the battery in my GoPro Hero 4?
You can easily replace the battery in your GoPro Hero 4 by locating the battery compartment, opening it, and sliding the old battery out. Then, insert the new battery and close the compartment.
Q: Can I buy a spare battery for the GoPro Hero 4?
Yes, you can buy a spare battery for the GoPro Hero 4 from various online retailers or the official GoPro website.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you know more about how long the GoPro Hero 4 battery lasts, you can plan your adventures accordingly. Remember to keep your camera in a cool place and use lower resolution settings to extend the battery life. Thank you for reading, and be sure to visit again for more helpful camera tips. Happy filming!