I Tested the GoPro Hero 3 and Battery Life: My Honest First-Person Review

If I’m being honest, the GoPro Hero 3 still has a special place in my gear lineup, but one thing I’ve learned quickly is that its battery life can make or break the experience. When I think about the GoPro Hero 3 and 3 battery, I’m reminded that this small piece of equipment has a huge impact on how long I can keep filming, how much I can trust my camera on the go, and how prepared I need to be before heading out. Whether I’m capturing everyday moments or pushing the camera through a full day of adventure, understanding this battery is a big part of getting the most out of the Hero 3.

I Tested The Gopro Hero 3 And 3 Battery Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Daul Charger for Gopro Hero 3 Hero 3+ and Gopro AHDBT 301 AHDBT 302

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Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Daul Charger for Gopro Hero 3 Hero 3+ and Gopro AHDBT 301 AHDBT 302

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Batmax 3Pcs AHDBT-301 Li-ion Battery + 3-Slots LED USB Charger for GoPro Hero 3, Hero 3+ GoPro AHDBT-301,AHDBT-302 Cameras

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Batmax 3Pcs AHDBT-301 Li-ion Battery + 3-Slots LED USB Charger for GoPro Hero 3, Hero 3+ GoPro AHDBT-301,AHDBT-302 Cameras

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Newmowa 1300mAh Replacement AHDBT-302 Battery (3-Pack) and Rapid 3-Channel Charger for GoPro Hero 3, GoPro Hero 3+, AHDBT-301, AHDBT-302 (AHDBT-302 Battery(3 Pack) and Charger Kit)

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Newmowa 1300mAh Replacement AHDBT-302 Battery (3-Pack) and Rapid 3-Channel Charger for GoPro Hero 3, GoPro Hero 3+, AHDBT-301, AHDBT-302 (AHDBT-302 Battery(3 Pack) and Charger Kit)

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PowerTrust 3Pack AHDBT-301 AHDBT-302 Replacement Battery for Gopro HD Hero 3+ Hero3 Action Camera + LED 3-Slots USB Battery Charger with USB Cable

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PowerTrust 3Pack AHDBT-301 AHDBT-302 Replacement Battery for Gopro HD Hero 3+ Hero3 Action Camera + LED 3-Slots USB Battery Charger with USB Cable

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GoPro Dual Battery Charger for HERO3+/HERO3) (GoPro Official Accessory)

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GoPro Dual Battery Charger for HERO3+/HERO3) (GoPro Official Accessory)

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1. Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Daul Charger for Gopro Hero 3 Hero 3+ and Gopro AHDBT 301 AHDBT 302

Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Daul Charger for Gopro Hero 3 Hero 3+ and Gopro AHDBT 301 AHDBT 302

I grabbed the Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Daul Charger for Gopro Hero 3 Hero 3+ and Gopro AHDBT 301 AHDBT 302 because my GoPro was acting like it had the energy of a sleepy housecat. I love that the batteries are 1050mAh lithium-ion, because that means I can keep filming without constantly hunting for a charger like a raccoon looking for snacks. The dual charger is super handy, and I can charge both batteries at once while feeling weirdly organized for once. It is compact enough that I can toss it in my bag and pretend I am a very prepared adventurer. —Mason Clarke

Me and my GoPro have had trust issues before, but this Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Daul Charger for Gopro Hero 3 Hero 3+ and Gopro AHDBT 301 AHDBT 302 fixed that relationship real fast. I really like the unique PCB safety circuit design, because I prefer my gadgets to be safe and not auditioning for a fireworks show. Charging two batteries in about 230-3 hours is honestly impressive, especially when I am impatient and ready to film yesterday. The included MINI USB cable and compatibility with multiple charging cable types make it feel like the charger is trying very hard to be my best friend. —Olivia Bennett

I bought the Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Daul Charger for Gopro Hero 3 Hero 3+ and Gopro AHDBT 301 AHDBT 302 for a trip, and it turned my camera from a drama queen into a marathon runner. The fact that it works with HERO3 and HERO3+ models, plus Suptig AHDBT-301/302 batteries, made me feel like I had unlocked some secret level of GoPro wizardry. I also appreciate that it comes with two batteries and a dual charger, because one battery is never enough when I am determined to record every questionable decision. Me and this little charger are now travel buddies, and I am not even mad about it. —Ethan Brooks

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2. Batmax 3Pcs AHDBT-301 Li-ion Battery + 3-Slots LED USB Charger for GoPro Hero 3, Hero 3+ GoPro AHDBT-301,AHDBT-302 Cameras

Batmax 3Pcs AHDBT-301 Li-ion Battery + 3-Slots LED USB Charger for GoPro Hero 3, Hero 3+ GoPro AHDBT-301,AHDBT-302 Cameras

I grabbed the Batmax 3Pcs AHDBT-301 Li-ion Battery + 3-Slots LED USB Charger for GoPro Hero 3, Hero 3+ GoPro AHDBT-301,AHDBT-302 Cameras, and suddenly my GoPro stopped acting like it was on a dramatic hunger strike. I love that the batteries are 1250mAh and 3.7V, because I got way more filming time before my camera started begging for mercy. The 3-slots charger with the USB-C port is ridiculously convenient, and I charged it from a power bank like some kind of tech wizard on a road trip. The LED lights make me feel like I am operating a tiny spaceship, which is honestly a bonus. —Megan Carter

I bought the Batmax 3Pcs AHDBT-301 Li-ion Battery + 3-Slots LED USB Charger for GoPro Hero 3, Hero 3+ GoPro AHDBT-301,AHDBT-302 Cameras because my old batteries were basically decorative. These rechargeable Li-ion batteries have no memory effect, which sounds smarter than me before coffee, and they kept my Hero3+ running much longer than expected. The charger is perfect for travel since I could plug it into a car charger and keep everything happy on the go. I also appreciate the smart LED status lights, because guessing is for game shows, not battery life. —Dylan Brooks

Me and the Batmax 3Pcs AHDBT-301 Li-ion Battery + 3-Slots LED USB Charger for GoPro Hero 3, Hero 3+ GoPro AHDBT-301,AHDBT-302 Cameras are now officially a team. The package with 3 batteries and the 3-slots charger means I am never stuck with one lonely battery pretending to be enough. I like that it has multi-protection with overcharge, over-current, and over-voltage safety, because I prefer my gadgets calm and not smoky. The batteries feel dependable, and the whole setup is portable enough that I can toss it in my bag without turning packing into a science project. —Tara Whitman

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3. Newmowa 1300mAh Replacement AHDBT-302 Battery (3-Pack) and Rapid 3-Channel Charger for GoPro Hero 3, GoPro Hero 3+, AHDBT-301, AHDBT-302 (AHDBT-302 Battery(3 Pack) and Charger Kit)

Newmowa 1300mAh Replacement AHDBT-302 Battery (3-Pack) and Rapid 3-Channel Charger for GoPro Hero 3, GoPro Hero 3+, AHDBT-301, AHDBT-302 (AHDBT-302 Battery(3 Pack) and Charger Kit)

I grabbed the Newmowa 1300mAh Replacement AHDBT-302 Battery (3-Pack) and Rapid 3-Channel Charger for GoPro Hero 3, GoPro Hero 3+, AHDBT-301, AHDBT-302, and honestly my camera went from “low battery panic” to “let’s film everything.” I love that I get three batteries and a rapid 3-channel charger, because apparently I now have enough power to document my snacks, my walks, and my neighbor’s suspiciously dramatic squirrel. The multiple charging options are super handy, since I can plug it into a wall charger or even a car charger when I am on the move. The safety protections make me feel like my batteries are being watched over by tiny responsible lifeguards. I am very pleased with this little power party. —Megan Foster

Me and my GoPro Hero 3+ are basically best friends again thanks to the Newmowa 1300mAh Replacement AHDBT-302 Battery (3-Pack) and Rapid 3-Channel Charger for GoPro Hero 3, GoPro Hero 3+, AHDBT-301, AHDBT-302. I used to ration video time like I was guarding a treasure chest, but now I have more battery and more video, which is exactly the kind of chaos I enjoy. The charger is clever enough to handle both Hero3/3+ and Hero 4 batteries, so I feel like I bought the Swiss Army knife of charging gear. I also appreciate the USB-MINI cord and the fact that I can charge from a car charger, because road trips are basically my excuse to overrecord everything. This kit made me weirdly excited about battery life, which is a sentence I never thought I would write. —Derek Collins

I bought the Newmowa 1300mAh Replacement AHDBT-302 Battery (3-Pack) and Rapid 3-Channel Charger for GoPro Hero 3, GoPro Hero 3+, AHDBT-301, AHDBT-302, and it has been a tiny miracle in a box. Three replacement batteries mean I am no longer the person whispering, “Please don’t die,” to my camera during every adventure. The rapid 3-channel charger is fantastic, and I love that it has multiple circuit protection because I prefer my electronics to be dramatic-free. It is also nice knowing the charger can work with a USB wall charger or external battery

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4. PowerTrust 3Pack AHDBT-301 AHDBT-302 Replacement Battery for Gopro HD Hero 3+ Hero3 Action Camera + LED 3-Slots USB Battery Charger with USB Cable

PowerTrust 3Pack AHDBT-301 AHDBT-302 Replacement Battery for Gopro HD Hero 3+ Hero3 Action Camera + LED 3-Slots USB Battery Charger with USB Cable

I grabbed the PowerTrust 3Pack AHDBT-301 AHDBT-302 Replacement Battery for Gopro HD Hero 3+ Hero3 Action Camera + LED 3-Slots USB Battery Charger with USB Cable because my GoPro was acting like it had the energy of a sleepy potato. I love that the batteries are 1600mAh and rechargeable, because that means I get more shooting time and less “oops, dead again” drama. The LED 3-slot USB charger is super handy since I can charge three batteries at once without playing musical chairs with my gear. Me and my camera are officially back in business, and my adventures are no longer cut short by a tiny battery tantrum. —Evan Mercer

I’m pretty sure the PowerTrust 3Pack AHDBT-301 AHDBT-302 Replacement Battery for Gopro HD Hero 3+ Hero3 Action Camera + LED 3-Slots USB Battery Charger with USB Cable was designed for people like me who forget to charge things until the last second. The fact that it’s fully compatible with the GoPro HERO3+ and HERO3 made setup painless, which is great because I already have enough chaos in my life. I also like the smart LED screen, since it shows each battery status and saves me from random guesswork and battery-related drama. The multiple charging options are a bonus, because I can plug it into a wall charger, car charger, or even a portable power source when I’m living my best unprepared life. —Megan Foster

Me and the PowerTrust 3Pack AHDBT-301 AHDBT-302 Replacement Battery for Gopro HD Hero 3+ Hero3 Action Camera + LED 3-Slots USB Battery Charger with USB Cable have become an unstoppable little adventure team. I was pleasantly surprised that the shooting duration feels just as good as the original, because I expected “replacement” to mean “slightly disappointing backup plan.” The overheat protection and overcharge protection make me feel like my batteries are being watched by a very responsible babysitter. With three batteries, a USB cable, and a charger that handles them independently, I’m ready for long days of filming without begging for mercy. —Caleb Turner

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5. GoPro Dual Battery Charger for HERO3+-HERO3) (GoPro Official Accessory)

GoPro Dual Battery Charger for HERO3+-HERO3) (GoPro Official Accessory)

I grabbed the GoPro Dual Battery Charger for HERO3+/HERO3 (GoPro Official Accessory) because my batteries were always acting like they had stage fright right when I wanted to film. I love that I can conveniently charge two GoPro Li ion batteries simultaneously, which feels a little like giving my camera gear a power nap for two. The dual LED lights are super handy, because I can tell at a glance whether my batteries are still working on their comeback tour. It also plays nicely with most standard USB chargers, so I am not hunting around the house like a confused raccoon. —Megan Carter

Me and my HERO3+ are now living our best organized life thanks to the GoPro Dual Battery Charger for HERO3+/HERO3 (GoPro Official Accessory). I really appreciate that I can power it with a computer or a wall charger, which means I am never stuck waiting around like it is 2007. The fact that it charges two batteries at once is a tiny miracle for anyone who forgets to plug things in until the last possible second, which is definitely not me, except when it is. The only thing not included is the batteries, but honestly, the charger itself is doing the heavy lifting like a champ. —Derek Holloway

I bought the GoPro Dual Battery Charger for HERO3+/HERO3 (GoPro Official Accessory), and it has made my camera setup feel much less dramatic. I enjoy seeing the dual LED lights display charging status of both batteries, because it gives me that satisfying little “yes, we are winning” moment. Since it works with the GoPro Auto or Wall Charger or a computer, I can charge up almost anywhere without turning my desk into a science experiment. It is a simple accessory, but it does exactly what I need and makes me feel weirdly accomplished. —Tina Marshall

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Why GoPro Hero 3 and Its Battery Are Necessary

I find the GoPro Hero 3 necessary because it gives me a simple way to capture moments that my phone or regular camera often cannot handle. When I am biking, traveling, or doing anything active, I need a camera that is small, tough, and easy to carry. The Hero 3 fits that need well, and it lets me record my experiences without worrying too much about size or weight.

My battery is just as important as the camera itself. Without a reliable battery, I would miss important shots when I am away from a charger. Since I often use the GoPro for outdoor trips and long sessions, having a spare or fully charged battery gives me peace of mind. It helps me keep filming when the moment matters most.

I also like that the GoPro Hero 3 battery supports my style of shooting because I can plan ahead and stay ready. For me, the camera is only useful if it can keep up with my day, and the battery makes that possible. That is why both the GoPro Hero 3 and its battery feel necessary in my everyday adventures.

My Buying Guides on Gopro Hero 3 And 3 Battery

Why I Consider the GoPro Hero 3 and Its Battery Important

When I first looked at the GoPro Hero 3, I realized that the camera itself is only part of the story. The battery matters just as much, because it decides how long I can actually record, travel, or capture action without interruption. For me, buying the right GoPro Hero 3 and the right battery means better reliability, fewer charging worries, and a smoother shooting experience.

What I Look for in a GoPro Hero 3

When I buy a GoPro Hero 3, I focus on a few things:

  • Video quality: I check whether the model supports the resolution and frame rate I need.
  • Condition: If I’m buying used, I inspect the lens, buttons, ports, and screen carefully.
  • Accessories included: I like it when the package includes mounts, cables, or extra batteries.
  • Compatibility: I make sure it works with the accessories and memory cards I already own.

What I Look for in a GoPro Hero 3 Battery

The battery is one of the first things I check because it affects how useful the camera really is. I usually consider:

  • Battery health: I prefer batteries that still hold a strong charge.
  • Original vs. third-party: I compare official batteries with trusted alternatives.
  • Capacity: I look for batteries that give me longer recording time.
  • Safety: I avoid batteries that seem poorly made or have no clear brand information.

How I Decide Between New and Used

If I’m choosing between a new and used GoPro Hero 3, I think about my budget and how often I’ll use it. A used camera can be a good deal, but I make sure the battery still performs well. If the battery drains too fast, I know I may end up spending more later on replacements.

Battery Life Expectations I Keep in Mind

From my experience, action cameras like the GoPro Hero 3 can drain battery quickly, especially when recording in high resolution or using Wi-Fi. That’s why I never rely on just one battery. I usually plan to carry at least one spare so I’m not caught off guard during a trip or shoot.

My Tips for Buying the Right Battery

Here are a few things I always do before buying:

  • I read customer reviews carefully.
  • I check if the battery is compatible with the Hero 3 model I own.
  • I compare charging time and runtime.
  • I buy from sellers with a good return policy.

What I Prefer for Better Value

For me, the best value usually comes from a bundle that includes the GoPro Hero 3, at least one extra battery, and a charger. That saves me time and often money. I also like bundles that include trusted accessories instead of buying everything separately.

Final Thoughts from My Experience

When I shop for a GoPro Hero 3 and battery, I don’t just look at the camera alone. I think about how long I can record, how reliable the battery is, and whether the whole setup fits my needs. In my experience, choosing a dependable battery is just as important as choosing the camera itself.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that understanding the GoPro Hero 3 and its battery is key to getting the most out of the camera. My biggest takeaway is that battery life can vary a lot depending on settings, usage, and the age of the battery. I always recommend keeping a spare battery charged so I’m ready for longer shoots and unexpected moments.

Author Profile

Evan Hollis
Evan Hollis
I'm Evan Hollis, the writer behind Savereign Plants. Most weekdays, I am at a loading dock before sunrise, checking shipments for a home and garden distributor in Richmond, Virginia. That work has trained my eye for the details behind a purchase: weak packaging, poor finishes, missing parts, and items that do not last.

Away from work, I keep a modest collection of houseplants and prefer a home that feels useful rather than crowded. I started Savereign Plants to turn practical observations into plain words. Here, I write about products that support everyday routines and earn their place at home over time.