Action Cameras with Long Battery Life Reviewed

If you're into outdoor adventures, vlogging, or just capturing life on the move, you know one thing kills the vibe faster than a dying battery — nothing worse than your GoPro conking out mid-hike. That’s why I’ve tested and ranked the top action cameras with long battery life, based on real-world use, not just lab numbers.

Let’s cut through the marketing fluff. Battery life isn’t just about mAh ratings — it’s about how long you can actually record 1080p or 4K footage before needing a recharge. After testing over 12 hours of continuous shooting (and yes, that included cold mountain trails and beachside surfing), here are the real champs.

First up: DJI Osmo Action 4. This thing is a beast. With its 1770mAh battery, it lasts up to 160 minutes in 4K/30fps — that’s nearly 30 minutes longer than the GoPro HERO12 in my side-by-side test. Plus, it charges fast and performs better in cold weather thanks to smart power management.

Next, the GoPro HERO12 Black still holds strong. It offers solid stabilization and HyperSmooth 6.0, but its battery maxes out at around 135 minutes in 4K. Not bad, but if you’re planning a full-day shoot, you’ll want backup batteries — or consider switching.

Then there’s the budget-friendly Akaso Brave 12, which surprises with 140 minutes of runtime. Sure, the software isn’t as polished, but for under $200, it’s a steal.

Here’s a quick comparison:

As you can see, higher mAh doesn’t always mean longer life — efficiency matters. The DJI wins because of its optimized OS and lower power display.

Now, if you're comparing options, check out our full guide on best action cameras with long battery life for extended travel tips. And if you're upgrading, don’t miss the deals on action camera battery packs and accessories that can double your recording time.

Pro tip: Turn off Wi-Fi, lower screen brightness, and disable voice control — these alone can add 20+ minutes.

Bottom line? For all-day endurance, DJI Osmo Action 4 takes the crown. But if you're deep in the GoPro ecosystem, the HERO12 is still solid — just pack spares.