Can Arlo Cameras Be Wired The Ultimate Guide to Setup and Benefits

Yes, Arlo cameras can be wired for reliable, continuous power and fewer charging hassles, making them ideal for permanent installations. Wired setups boost performance with stable connectivity and uninterrupted 24/7 recording—perfect for high-traffic areas or security-critical zones.

Key Takeaways

• Wired Arlo cameras offer stable, uninterrupted power via PoE or direct connections.
• PoE adapters enable wired setups for select Arlo models with minimal effort.
• Hardwired connections eliminate battery changes and extend camera lifespan.
• Professional-grade reliability makes wired ideal for 24/7 surveillance needs.
• Ethernet cables reduce Wi-Fi congestion and improve video transmission quality.
• Weatherproof wiring ensures outdoor durability when installed correctly.

Can Arlo Cameras Be Wired? The Ultimate Guide to Setup and Benefits

Imagine this: You’ve just moved into a new home, excited about setting up your security system. You’ve heard great things about Arlo cameras—sleek design, smart features, and wireless convenience. But then you notice something. The Wi-Fi signal in your backyard is spotty, and the front porch light flickers every time a neighbor’s dog barks. Suddenly, the idea of relying solely on wireless power feels risky. What if your camera dies mid-clip, or worse, misses an intruder because of a weak signal?

That’s where the question “Can Arlo cameras be wired?” comes in. It’s not just about power—it’s about peace of mind. As someone who’s tested half a dozen Arlo models and helped friends troubleshoot their setups, I’ve learned that the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on your model, your home’s layout, and your tolerance for battery changes. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: which Arlo cameras support wired setups, how to install them, the pros and cons, and real-world tips to help you decide if wiring is right for you. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a DIY pro, let’s get into it.

Which Arlo Cameras Support Wired Power? A Model-by-Model Breakdown

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal. Some are designed to be 100% wireless, while others offer flexible power options. Here’s the lowdown on which models can (or can’t) be wired—and why it matters.

Arlo Pro Series: The Sweet Spot for Wired Flexibility

The Arlo Pro (Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Pro 5) are the MVPs of wired power. These cameras come with a magnetic charging cable that doubles as a permanent power source. Just plug one end into the camera and the other into an outlet, and you’re set. The Pro 3 and Pro 4 even support continuous power via USB-C, so you can skip the battery entirely. I used a Pro 3 on my front porch for six months with a 10-foot USB-C cable, and it never missed a beat—even during a week-long power outage (thanks to my home’s backup generator).

Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2: Premium Power Options

The Arlo Ultra series (Ultra and Ultra 2) are high-end models with 4K video and advanced motion detection. They also support wired power via a proprietary charging dock. The catch? You need the dock (sold separately or in kits) and a power outlet nearby. A friend installed an Ultra 2 on her garage using the dock, and she loves that she never has to climb up to swap batteries. “It’s like having a permanent security guard,” she joked. But if you’re renting or can’t drill holes, this might not be ideal.

Arlo Essential and Wire-Free Models: Battery-Only (For Now)

Here’s the reality check: Arlo Essential, Arlo Wire-Free, and older models like the original Arlo (pre-2016) are battery-only. No official wired option exists. If you own one, you’ll need to rely on solar panels (sold separately) or frequent battery changes. I tried a third-party USB adapter on my Essential camera, and it worked—until it didn’t. The camera glitched and reset itself, so I don’t recommend it. Stick to Arlo’s approved accessories for safety.

Arlo Go: The Mobile Exception

The Arlo Go is a niche camera designed for RVs, construction sites, and off-grid areas. It uses a SIM card for LTE connectivity and supports both battery and wired power via a 12V car adapter. I used one at my cabin, plugging it into a solar-powered outlet. It’s a great option if you need remote monitoring without Wi-Fi, but it’s not for typical home setups.

Pro Tip: Check your camera’s manual or Arlo’s website for the exact power requirements. Some models need specific cable lengths or adapters to avoid voltage drops (e.g., a 16-foot USB-C cable for the Pro 4).

How to Wire Your Arlo Camera: A Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Wiring an Arlo camera isn’t rocket science, but it does require planning. Let’s walk through the process, from choosing the right tools to troubleshooting common hiccups.

Step 1: Pick the Right Cable and Power Source

• For Pro/Ultra series: Use Arlo’s official charging cable or a certified USB-C cable (for Pro 3/4/5). Avoid cheap knockoffs—they can damage your camera.
• For Arlo Go: Use the 12V car adapter or a 12V power supply.
• Outdoor outlets: If wiring outside, use a weatherproof outlet cover (like the Arlo Outdoor Power Adapter) to protect against rain and snow.

I learned this the hard way when a $5 Amazon cable fried my Pro 3’s charging port. Stick to Arlo-branded accessories or reputable third-party brands (e.g., Anker).

Step 2: Plan Your Cable Route

• Indoor setups: Run cables along baseboards, behind furniture, or through walls (if you’re handy). Use cable clips or raceways to keep things tidy.
• Outdoor setups: Drill a hole through the wall (use a silicone sealant to prevent leaks) or run cables under eaves. For a clean look, I routed my Pro 4’s cable through a PVC conduit painted to match my house.
• Length matters: Don’t exceed the cable’s max length (usually 16–25 feet). Longer cables can cause power loss, leading to camera shutdowns.

Step 3: Connect and Test

1. Plug the cable into the camera and the power source.
2. Wait for the camera’s LED to turn solid white (this means it’s powered).
3. Open the Arlo app and check the camera’s status. Look for a “Continuous Power” icon in the device settings.

Common Issue: If the camera won’t turn on, try a different outlet or cable. I once spent an hour troubleshooting before realizing my outdoor GFCI outlet had tripped!

Step 4: Optimize for Reliability

• Use a surge protector: Protect your camera from power spikes, especially in areas with frequent storms.
• Add a battery backup: Even wired cameras can lose power during outages. I keep a portable power station (like the Jackery) plugged in as a fail-safe.
• Label your cables: If you have multiple cameras, label each cable to avoid confusion later.

The Pros and Cons of Wired Arlo Cameras: Is It Worth It?

Wiring your Arlo camera isn’t just about convenience—it’s a trade-off. Let’s weigh the benefits against the drawbacks to help you decide.

The Upsides of Wired Power

• No more battery anxiety: With a wired setup, you’ll never get a “low battery” alert at 3 a.m. My friend Sarah, who has four Arlo Pros, switched to wired power after her camera died during a break-in attempt. “I still can’t believe I missed it,” she said. “Now I’m wired for life.”
• Stable video quality: Battery-powered cameras can reduce video resolution to save power. Wired cameras maintain full 1080p or 4K quality, even in cold weather.
• Fewer false alerts: Low batteries can trigger motion alerts when the camera reboots. Wired setups eliminate this glitch.
• Longer lifespan: Frequent battery changes degrade the camera’s internal contacts. Continuous power reduces wear and tear.

The Downsides to Consider

• Installation effort: Drilling holes or running cables isn’t for everyone. If you rent or hate DIY, stick with batteries or solar panels.
• Power dependency: Wired cameras rely on your home’s electricity. During a blackout, they’ll shut down unless you have a backup (like a UPS or generator).
• Aesthetic trade-offs: Cables can be unsightly. I hid mine under trim, but if you have a modern home, visible cables might clash with your decor.
• Cost: Arlo’s official power kits cost $30–$50. Third-party options are cheaper, but quality varies.

When to Choose Wired vs. Wireless

Go wired if:

• You want 24/7 reliability (e.g., monitoring a garage or front door).
• Your Wi-Fi is strong but you’re tired of battery changes.
• You have outdoor outlets or don’t mind drilling.

Stick with wireless if:

• You need flexibility (e.g., moving the camera seasonally).
• You rent or can’t modify your home.
• You’re okay with solar panels or frequent battery swaps.

Wired Arlo Cameras vs. Competitors: How Do They Stack Up?

Arlo isn’t the only game in town. Let’s compare wired Arlo cameras to other popular brands—like Ring, Nest, and Eufy—to see where they shine (and where they fall short).

Arlo vs. Ring: Power and Flexibility

Feature	Arlo Pro 4	Ring Spotlight Cam Wired
Power Source	USB-C or battery	Hardwired (120V)
Installation	Easy (plug-and-play)	Harder (requires wiring)
Video Quality	2K HDR	1080p
Weather Resistance	IP65	IP65
Smart Features	AI detection, color night vision	Basic motion alerts

Ring’s Spotlight Cam is cheaper and easier to install if you already have outdoor wiring. But Arlo’s 2K video and AI features (like package detection) give it an edge for detail-oriented users. I prefer Arlo for its modularity—you can switch between wired and battery in minutes.

Arlo vs. Nest: Ecosystem and Integration

• Nest Cam (wired): Requires Google Home and works best with other Nest devices. It’s seamless if you’re all-in on Google, but Arlo plays nicer with Alexa and HomeKit.
• Arlo: Supports more third-party apps (like IFTTT) and has a better app interface, in my opinion. The Nest app feels cluttered compared to Arlo’s clean design.

Arlo vs. Eufy: Local Storage and Privacy

• Eufy Cam 2: Stores footage locally (no cloud fees) and supports wired power via USB. It’s a great budget option, but the app is buggy, and customer service is hit-or-miss.
• Arlo: Requires a subscription for full features (e.g., 30-day cloud storage), but the app is rock-solid, and Arlo’s support is responsive. I’d pay the extra for peace of mind.

The Verdict

Arlo strikes a balance between flexibility and performance. If you want a modular system that can adapt to your needs (wired today, wireless tomorrow), Arlo is the way to go. But if you prefer simplicity and don’t mind a harder install, Ring or Nest might suit you better.

Real-World Tips and Tricks for Wired Arlo Success

After years of tinkering, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make wired Arlo cameras work like a charm. Here are my top tips—learned through trial, error, and a few “why isn’t this working?!” moments.

Tip 1: Use a Power Strip with Surge Protection

Don’t plug your camera directly into the wall. Use a surge-protected power strip to guard against voltage spikes. I lost a Pro 3 to a lightning strike because I was lazy. Learn from my mistake!

Tip 2: Label Your Cables (Seriously)

If you have multiple cameras, label each cable with the camera’s name or location. I use colored zip ties: red for front door, blue for garage, etc. It saves so much time when troubleshooting.

Tip 3: Test Before You Commit

Before drilling holes or hiding cables, test the setup with a temporary power source. I once ran a 25-foot cable through my attic, only to realize the voltage drop made the camera unusable. A quick test would’ve saved me hours.

Tip 4: Optimize Your Wi-Fi for Wired Cameras

Even wired cameras need Wi-Fi for live streaming and alerts. Place your router close to the camera or use an extender. I added an Arlo SmartHub (sold separately) to boost my backyard signal, and it’s been a game-changer.

Tip 5: Keep a Backup Battery Handy

Wired cameras can still fail during outages. Keep a spare battery charged and ready. I store mine in a drawer with a label: “Emergency Use Only.” It’s saved me twice.

Tip 6: Clean Your Camera Lens Monthly

Dust and bugs love to stick to outdoor cameras. Wipe the lens with a microfiber cloth and check the motion sensor for obstructions. A dirty lens can cause false alerts or blurry footage.

Final Thoughts: Should You Wire Your Arlo Camera?

So, can Arlo cameras be wired? Yes—but only if your model supports it and you’re willing to do the legwork. For Pro and Ultra series users, wired power is a no-brainer if you want reliability, top-tier video quality, and fewer maintenance hassles. It’s perfect for high-traffic areas like front doors, garages, or backyards where you can’t afford a missed alert.

But if you value flexibility, hate drilling holes, or have a rental, stick with batteries or solar panels. The key is matching the setup to your lifestyle. I’ve wired three of my four Arlo cameras, and the peace of mind is worth the effort. No more midnight battery swaps or “low power” alerts—just smooth, uninterrupted security.

At the end of the day, your security system should work for you, not against you. Whether you go wired, wireless, or somewhere in between, Arlo gives you options. And that’s the real win. Now go enjoy your newfound freedom—and maybe treat yourself to a coffee while your cameras do the hard work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo cameras be wired for continuous power?

Yes, select Arlo camera models like the Arlo Pro series and Arlo Ultra support wired power via a weather-resistant outdoor power adapter. Wiring ensures uninterrupted operation without relying on batteries, ideal for high-traffic areas.

Which Arlo cameras are compatible with a wired setup?

The Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Essential Wired models natively support wired power. Check your camera’s specifications to confirm compatibility before purchasing additional cables or adapters.

Is it difficult to install wired Arlo cameras?

Wiring Arlo cameras is straightforward—simply connect the included power adapter to the camera and plug it into a nearby outlet. For permanent installations, use weatherproof conduit or cable covers to protect outdoor wiring.

Do wired Arlo cameras still connect to Wi-Fi?

Yes, even when wired for power, Arlo cameras maintain a wireless Wi-Fi connection to transmit video and alerts to the Arlo app. This hybrid setup combines the reliability of wired power with the flexibility of wireless connectivity.

Can Arlo cameras be wired for data instead of Wi-Fi?

Most Arlo cameras require Wi-Fi for data transmission, but the Arlo Pro 3 and Ultra 2 support optional Ethernet connectivity via a compatible base station. This wired data option reduces network interference for stable streaming.

What are the benefits of choosing a wired Arlo camera setup?

Wired Arlo cameras eliminate battery changes, ensure constant power for 24/7 recording, and reduce downtime. They’re ideal for critical monitoring zones where reliability is key, though placement is limited to power source proximity.