A Short Guide to Action Camera Chargers


The door swings open, and the search begins. You need a charger for your action camera—maybe you lost the original, maybe the old one’s given up, or maybe you’re just tired of running out of juice right when the action gets good. Whatever the case, you're in the right place. Let’s break it down.
The Official Action Camera Charges
If you’ve got a GoPro, you’re dealing with a brand that thrives on premium pricing. GoPro’s official chargers are reliable, efficient, and purpose-built for their cameras. The GoPro Dual Battery Charger is a solid choice, ensuring two batteries charge simultaneously at optimal speed. It’s the safest bet, but also the most expensive. If you value brand authenticity and guaranteed compatibility, this is the way to go.
Pros:
- Reliable and fast charging
- Designed specifically for GoPro batteries
- Official support and firmware compatibility
Cons:
- Pricey
- Doesn’t come with extra batteries
Third-Party Chargers: Budget-Friendly and Reliable
Not interested in paying the GoPro premium? Plenty of third-party chargers do the job just as well—sometimes better. Brands like Telesin and Wasabi Power are top-tier alternatives, offering reliable charging at a fraction of the cost. Many even include extra batteries, making them an excellent value for money.
While DJI Osmo Action, Insta360, and Akaso cameras all have their own official chargers, third-party options are often just as effective. Unlike GoPro, DJI and Insta360 are less restrictive about third-party accessories, making alternatives a safer bet.
If you're using an Insta360 camera, look into Ulanzi’s charging solutions—they’re affordable and reliable. DJI Osmo Action users can safely pick up Telesin or Powerextra chargers without worrying about firmware issues.
Pros:
- More affordable than official chargers
- Often includes extra batteries
- Generally as fast and reliable as GoPro-branded options
Cons:
- Some third-party batteries may not play nice with GoPro firmware updates
- Build quality varies by brand
Fast Charging and On-the-Go Power
Before grabbing the first charger you see, check the charging speed. A 5V/2A charger is the bare minimum; anything less and you’ll be stuck waiting forever. If you’re always on the move, consider a portable power bank with USB-C PD support—these can keep you charged no matter where you are.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the best charger for your action camera? If money isn’t a concern, go official. If you want to save, grab a Telesin, Wasabi Power, or Ulanzi charger, depending on your camera model. Either way, don’t get caught with a dead battery mid-shot—choose wisely, and keep rolling.
Featured image by Ravi Sharma.