Can Arlo Camera Use Power Cord Find Out Here

Yes, most Arlo cameras can use a power cord for continuous charging, eliminating battery changes—ideal for indoor and weatherproof outdoor models like the Arlo Pro series and Arlo Ultra. Check your specific model’s compatibility to ensure safe, reliable power via a standard USB or DC adapter.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras can use power cords for continuous, reliable operation without battery changes.
• Check compatibility first—not all Arlo models support wired power connections.
• Use Arlo-approved power adapters to avoid damage and ensure optimal performance.
• Weatherproof cords are essential for outdoor setups to withstand harsh conditions.
• Power cords reduce maintenance by eliminating frequent battery replacements and downtime.

Why Power Options Matter for Arlo Cameras

Imagine this: You’ve just installed your Arlo camera to keep an eye on your home, only to realize the battery is draining faster than expected. Maybe it’s a busy street, your front porch, or the backyard—spots where every motion triggers a recording. Suddenly, you’re scrambling to recharge or replace batteries every few weeks. It’s frustrating, right? This is where the question, “Can Arlo camera use power cord?” becomes more than just a technical query—it’s a practical solution to a real-world problem.

Arlo cameras are known for their wireless convenience, sleek design, and smart features. But their battery dependency can be a double-edged sword. While wireless setups offer flexibility in placement, they also bring the hassle of frequent battery changes. That’s why many homeowners, like me, start exploring whether a power cord for Arlo camera is a viable option. The good news? In many cases, yes—it absolutely is. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. Different Arlo models, setups, and environments call for different approaches. Let’s dive into the details, so you can decide what works best for your home.

Understanding Arlo Camera Power Options

Battery-Powered vs. Wired: The Core Difference

At first glance, Arlo cameras seem like they’re all about being wireless. And that’s true for the most part. Most models—like the Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra—are designed to run on rechargeable batteries. This makes them easy to install anywhere, without worrying about outlets or cords. But here’s the catch: battery life varies. In high-traffic areas, you might be charging every 3–4 weeks. In quieter zones, maybe every 6–8 weeks. That’s a lot of maintenance if you have multiple cameras.

Now, enter the Arlo camera power cord. Some models support direct power through a USB cable and adapter, which means you can plug them into a wall outlet or even a power bank. This eliminates the battery hassle and ensures 24/7 operation—no downtime for charging. But not all Arlo cameras can do this. It depends on the model, generation, and firmware. So before you run out and buy a cord, it’s crucial to know which Arlo cameras actually support wired power.

Which Arlo Cameras Support Power Cords?

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to power. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Arlo Pro 3 & Pro 4: Yes, these support the Arlo Solar Panel and the Arlo Outdoor Magnetic Charging Cable. The magnetic cable connects directly to the camera and plugs into a USB power source (like a wall adapter). No battery removal needed.
• Arlo Ultra & Ultra 2: Fully compatible with the magnetic charging cable and solar panel. These are great for long-term, uninterrupted use.
• Arlo Essential (Indoor & Outdoor): The Indoor model is wired-only—it comes with a USB cable and must be plugged in. The Outdoor version is battery-powered but supports the same magnetic charging cable as the Pro series.
• Arlo Go & Arlo Go 2: These are LTE-enabled and primarily battery-powered. They do not support direct power cords—only charging via USB when removed from the mount.
• Arlo Pro 2: Older model, battery-only. No direct power cord option unless you remove the battery and use a third-party solution (not recommended).

So, if you’re asking, “Can Arlo camera use power cord?” the answer is: It depends, but many newer models absolutely can. The key is choosing the right model and using the correct accessories.

How to Power Your Arlo Camera with a Cord

Using the Arlo Outdoor Magnetic Charging Cable

The Arlo Outdoor Magnetic Charging Cable is the official solution for powering compatible cameras without removing the battery. I’ve used this setup on my front porch, and it’s been a game-changer. Here’s how it works:

• The cable has a magnetic tip that snaps securely onto the back of the camera.
• The other end connects to a USB power adapter (like the one you use for your phone).
• Plug the adapter into a wall outlet or a weatherproof outdoor socket.
• The camera draws power directly, bypassing the battery. The battery still charges as a backup.

Pro Tip: Use a high-quality 5V/2A USB adapter. Some cheaper adapters don’t provide enough power, causing the camera to flicker or reboot. I learned this the hard way when my camera kept going offline during storms. Switching to a reliable adapter fixed the issue.

Also, make sure the cable is rated for outdoor use. The official Arlo cable is weather-resistant, but third-party options may not be. If you’re using it outside, consider a weatherproof junction box to protect the adapter and connection.

Indoor Cameras: Plug-and-Play Simplicity

If you have the Arlo Essential Indoor camera, you’re already set up for corded power. It comes with a 6-foot USB cable and a power adapter. Just plug it into an outlet, and you’re done. No batteries, no hassle.

This is perfect for:

• Monitoring pets while you’re at work
• Keeping an eye on a nursery or home office
• Placing on a bookshelf or desk where outlets are nearby

The downside? You’re limited by the cable length. A 6-foot cord might not reach far from an outlet. In that case, you can use a USB extension cable (make sure it’s high-quality and at least 24 AWG for stable power). I’ve used a 10-foot extension to reach a hallway corner, and it works perfectly.

Third-Party Power Solutions (Use with Caution)

Some people try DIY setups—like splicing a USB cable or using non-Arlo adapters. While this can work, it’s risky. Here’s why:

• Voltage fluctuations can damage the camera.
• Non-certified cables may not support data transfer, causing sync issues.
• Arlo’s warranty doesn’t cover damage from third-party accessories.

I once tried a generic magnetic cable from Amazon. It charged slowly, and after a few weeks, the camera started overheating. I switched back to the official Arlo cable, and the problem disappeared. Lesson learned: stick to Arlo-certified accessories for reliability and safety.

Solar Power: A Cord Alternative for Outdoor Use

How the Arlo Solar Panel Works

If you’re not near an outlet but still want to avoid battery changes, the Arlo Solar Panel is a fantastic option. It connects to the same magnetic port as the charging cable and uses sunlight to keep your camera powered.

Here’s how I set it up in my backyard:

• Mount the solar panel on a south-facing wall or eave.
• Connect it to the camera using the included 8-foot cable.
• Ensure the panel gets at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

The solar panel doesn’t power the camera directly—it charges the battery continuously. So even on cloudy days, the battery stays topped up. I’ve gone 6 months without manually charging, even in winter.

Is Solar Right for You?

Solar power is ideal if:

• You have a camera in a remote spot (like a shed or garden).
• Outdoor outlets are hard to access.
• You live in a sunny area (most regions with 4+ hours of daily sun).

But it’s not perfect. Consider these factors:

• Weather: Heavy snow or constant rain can reduce efficiency.
• Placement: Shade from trees or buildings limits performance.
• Initial Cost: The solar panel is an extra $50–$70, but it pays off over time.

Tip: Clean the solar panel monthly. Dust, leaves, and bird droppings can block sunlight and reduce charging.

Pros and Cons of Using a Power Cord with Arlo Cameras

The Upsides: Why You Should Consider It

• No More Battery Changes: Once plugged in, your camera runs non-stop. Great for high-traffic areas like driveways or front doors.
• Stable Performance: No risk of the camera going offline due to low battery.
• Continuous Recording: Some features (like 24/7 recording) require constant power—something batteries can’t guarantee.
• Weatherproof Setup: With the right cable and adapter, your outdoor camera stays protected.
• Peace of Mind: You’ll never wake up to a “low battery” alert in the middle of the night.

I used to get 3–4 battery alerts per month. Since switching to a power cord, it’s dropped to zero. That’s a huge relief, especially when I’m traveling.

The Downsides: What to Watch Out For

• Limited Placement: You need an outlet nearby. Not ideal for trees, fences, or distant corners.
• Cord Management: Long cables can be a tripping hazard or look messy. Use cable clips or conduit to tidy them up.
• Power Outages: If the power goes out, your camera goes offline (unless it has a backup battery, which some models do).
• Extra Cost: Magnetic cables and adapters aren’t cheap. But they’re a one-time investment.
• Compatibility: Not all models support cords. Check your camera’s specs before buying.

One thing I wish I’d known earlier: The magnetic cable doesn’t charge the camera faster than the battery. It just keeps it powered. So if your battery is already low, it’ll still take a few hours to fully charge while in use.

Real-World Setup Examples and Tips

Example 1: Front Porch Surveillance

Setup: Arlo Pro 4 + Outdoor Magnetic Charging Cable + Weatherproof Outlet Cover

• Mounted camera under the eaves.
• Used a 15-foot cable to reach the outdoor outlet (hidden behind a planter).
• Added a surge protector to guard against lightning.
• Result: No battery changes for 8 months. Even during a storm, it stayed online.

Tip: Use a zigzag cable routing to prevent water from dripping into the connection.

Example 2: Indoor Home Office

Setup: Arlo Essential Indoor + 10-Foot USB Extension Cable

• Placed camera on a bookshelf, 8 feet from the outlet.
• Used a braided USB extension to reduce tangling.
• Result: Perfect for monitoring deliveries and package theft.

Tip: If the camera’s LED is too bright, cover it with a tiny piece of electrical tape. It won’t affect night vision.

Example 3: Backyard Solar Setup

Setup: Arlo Ultra + Solar Panel + 8-Foot Cable

• Mounted solar panel on a fence post, facing south.
• Connected to the camera under the patio roof.
• Result: Zero battery maintenance, even in winter.

Tip: Angle the panel at 30–45 degrees for optimal sun exposure.

Data Table: Arlo Power Options at a Glance

Model	Battery Only?	Supports Magnetic Cable?	Supports Solar Panel?	Wired-Only?
Arlo Pro 3	No	Yes	Yes	No
Arlo Pro 4	No	Yes	Yes	No
Arlo Ultra	No	Yes	Yes	No
Arlo Essential Indoor	No	No	No	Yes
Arlo Essential Outdoor	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Arlo Go	Yes	No	No	No

Final Thoughts: Should You Use a Power Cord?

So, can Arlo camera use power cord? The short answer: Yes, if you have the right model and accessories. For many of us, switching from batteries to a corded setup has been a total win. No more midnight battery swaps. No more worrying about whether the camera caught the delivery or the raccoon in the yard. Just reliable, 24/7 surveillance.

But it’s not for everyone. If you value placement flexibility or have a camera in a hard-to-reach spot, batteries might still be your best bet. Or, you could go hybrid—use cords for high-traffic areas and batteries for remote spots. The solar panel is another smart compromise, especially for outdoor setups.

My advice? Start small. Pick one camera that gets the most use and try a magnetic cable. See how it works for you. You might find, like I did, that the convenience and peace of mind are worth the extra setup. And if you’re building a new Arlo system from scratch, consider models that support both battery and corded power. That way, you get the best of both worlds.

At the end of the day, the goal is a security system that works for you—not the other way around. Whether that’s batteries, cords, or solar, the right choice is the one that fits your life, your home, and your peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo cameras be powered using a power cord?

Yes, many Arlo camera models, such as the Arlo Pro series and Arlo Ultra, support continuous power via a compatible power cord. This eliminates the need for frequent battery changes and ensures uninterrupted surveillance.

Which Arlo cameras are compatible with a power cord?

Models like the Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell can use a power cord. Always check your camera’s specifications to confirm power compatibility before purchasing accessories.

Do I need a specific power cord for my Arlo camera?

Yes, Arlo cameras require their proprietary power cords or certified third-party options with matching voltage and connectors. Using incorrect cords may damage the camera or void the warranty.

Can I use a power cord with Arlo’s battery-powered cameras?

Yes, even battery-powered Arlo cameras (e.g., Arlo Pro 3) can use a power cord for continuous charging. This is ideal for high-traffic areas where constant recording is needed.

Does using a power cord affect Arlo camera performance?

Using a power cord ensures stable performance without battery drain, enabling features like 24/7 recording or higher video resolution. Just ensure the cord is properly connected and weatherproofed for outdoor use.

Where can I buy an Arlo camera power cord?

Arlo power cords are available on the official Arlo website, Amazon, or electronics retailers. Look for the keyword “Arlo power cord” and verify model compatibility before buying.