Zoom H4n Batteries: Powering the recorder

Because the Zoom H4n recorder is battery-powered, has multiple microphone inputs, and can record quality audio it has long been popular with videographers and content creators.

In this article, I cover the type of batteries the Zoom h4n uses, how many batteries it takes, and whether the H4n can use USB power or rechargeable power.

Zoom H4n battery type

The recommended batteries for the Zoom H4n recorder are conventional AA alkaline or rechargeable nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries. I have also used non-rechargeable AA Lithium batteries without encountering any problems. Although lithium batteries are long-lasting, they are expensive if required on a regular basis.

In the Zoom H4n menu, you can select the battery type being used. This will ensure a more accurate estimate of the remaining battery life is displayed on the screen.

How many batteries does the zoom h4n battery compartment take?

The Zoom H4n portable recorder takes 2 AA batteries. They are accommodated in the Zoom’s battery compartment, which can be accessed from the rear of the recorder. The two batteries are enough for the H4n’s requirement of 5V 1A power.

The battery compartment cover has a circular thumb indentation and an arrow showing in which direction the cover opens, which is to the right. By applying a little thumb pressure, the cover can be slid to the right and then removed, revealing the battery compartment.

The two AA batteries sit side-by-side but face opposite directions. The upper battery is inserted so the positive terminal faces the left and the lower battery has the positive terminal facing the right.

A Black woven ribbon sits beneath the batteries and protrudes from one side. The two AA batteries can easily be removed by pulling on the end of the ribbon.

Can you charge a Zoom H4n or rechargeable batteries in an H4n?

Since the Zoom H4n recorder does not have an integrated rechargeable battery, it cannot be charged by an external power source. Nor can rechargeable Ni-MH batteries be charged in the H4n. This is because when external power is connected to the H4n, it bypasses the battery compartment.

Since external power bypasses the Zoom H4n battery compartment, alkaline or rechargeable AA batteries can be left inside the recorder. They will be unaffected when external power is used.

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Can the Zoom H4n use USB power?

When the H4n is connected, via its mini-USB port, to a computer or power bank, the Zoom recorder will accept USB power and turn on. However, it will boot straight to the USB screen in the menu, where the only choices are for it to function as a USB storage device or USB Audio Interface.

Unfortunately, the normal functionality of the Zoom H4n recorder is not possible when powered through the mini-USB port. Nonetheless, the Zoom H4n can use a USB power source, such as a power bank or AC wall outlet adapter, and have the full functionality of the H4n/H4n Pro. To do this you will need a USB to DC power cable to connect the USB power source to the DC power socket on the base of the unit. For details of the necessary cable see my article, How to Power a Zoom H4n Recorder with a Power Bank.

Summary

The Zoom H4n takes 2 AA batteries. The recommended type is conventional alkaline or rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride batteries. External power can be provided by the Zoom AD14 AC adapter, or, with a suitable cable, from a USB power bank.