Can Battery Powered Arlo Cameras Be Converted to AC Power Easily

Yes, battery-powered Arlo cameras can be converted to AC power easily using Arlo’s official AC power adapter or compatible third-party options. This simple upgrade eliminates battery replacements and ensures uninterrupted surveillance, ideal for high-traffic areas. Just plug in the adapter, secure the cable, and enjoy continuous power—no rewiring needed.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, conversion is possible: Most battery-powered Arlo cameras support AC power with compatible adapters.
• Check model compatibility: Verify your Arlo model’s specs before purchasing AC power accessories.
• Use Arlo-approved hardware: Third-party adapters may damage cameras or void warranties.
• Continuous power benefits: Eliminates battery changes and ensures uninterrupted surveillance.
• Installation is simple: Plug-and-play setup with minimal tools or technical knowledge required.

Understanding Arlo Battery-Powered Cameras and Their Limitations

When I first set up my Arlo battery-powered cameras around my home, I felt like I’d stepped into the future. No messy wires, no drilling holes through walls, and the freedom to place them wherever I wanted—on the porch, in the backyard, even under the eaves. These cameras are sleek, easy to install, and perfect for renters or homeowners who want flexibility. But after a few months, I started noticing something: the batteries needed replacing more often than I expected. Between extreme weather, motion detection settings, and constant Wi-Fi use, my cameras were draining power faster than I could keep up.

That’s when the idea hit me—can battery powered Arlo cameras be converted to AC power? I wasn’t alone. A quick search revealed hundreds of forum threads and YouTube videos from fellow Arlo users asking the same thing. The answer isn’t always straightforward, but it’s definitely worth exploring. Whether you’re tired of replacing batteries, want 24/7 recording without interruptions, or just prefer a more permanent setup, converting your Arlo to AC power could be the solution. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned—what works, what doesn’t, and how to do it safely and effectively.

Why Consider Converting Battery-Powered Arlo Cameras to AC Power?

The Real Cost of Battery Maintenance

At first glance, battery-powered Arlo cameras seem convenient. But let’s be honest: batteries aren’t cheap. A single rechargeable Arlo battery can cost $20–$30, and if you have four or five cameras, that’s $100+ every 2–3 months. I learned this the hard way during a winter storm when two of my cameras died overnight, leaving my backyard unmonitored. Not ideal.

Beyond cost, there’s the hassle. You’re constantly checking battery levels, swapping them out, recharging, and hoping you don’t miss a critical alert because the camera was offline. For busy families or people with multiple cameras, this becomes a full-time chore.

Performance and Reliability Improvements

AC power offers consistent voltage, which means your camera runs at peak performance. No more low-battery warnings, reduced motion sensitivity, or delayed alerts. I noticed my cameras responded faster to motion and recorded longer clips once I switched one to a wired setup.

Another benefit? No downtime. With AC power, your camera is always on. That’s especially important for security—imagine missing a package theft or suspicious activity because your battery died at 2 a.m.

Environmental and Long-Term Benefits

Let’s not forget the environmental impact. Constantly replacing lithium-ion batteries adds up. By switching to AC, you reduce battery waste and lower your carbon footprint. Plus, you’re future-proofing your system. If Arlo releases new firmware or features that require more power (like AI detection or 4K streaming), a wired camera can handle it without breaking a sweat.

One user in Arizona told me they converted all five of their outdoor Arlo Pro 4 cameras to AC power using solar-powered AC adapters. Now they run 24/7 with zero battery changes—and their energy bill barely budged.

Official Arlo Solutions: Solar Panels and Power Adapters

Arlo Solar Panel: A Semi-Permanent Fix

Arlo’s official answer to the battery problem is the Arlo Solar Panel. It’s designed to trickle-charge your camera’s battery, keeping it topped off without direct AC power. I’ve used one on my backyard camera for over a year, and it’s been a game-changer.

Here’s how it works: the solar panel connects via a weather-resistant USB cable to your camera. It doesn’t replace the battery—it just keeps it charged. On sunny days, my camera stays at 100% for weeks. Even on cloudy days, it holds steady at 70–80%. The only downside? It’s not true AC power. The camera still runs on battery, just a constantly charged one.

Pro tip: Mount the panel where it gets at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily. I angled mine toward the south (in the Northern Hemisphere) for maximum exposure. Also, clean the panel monthly to prevent dust or bird droppings from blocking sunlight.

Arlo Power Adapter: The Direct AC Option (For Some Models)

Here’s the good news: some Arlo cameras can be converted directly to AC power using Arlo’s official power adapters. The Arlo Power Adapter (sold separately) works with:

• Arlo Pro 3
• Arlo Pro 4
• Arlo Ultra
• Arlo Essential
• Arlo Go (with a special adapter)

The adapter replaces the battery entirely. You plug it into a standard outlet, run the cable to the camera, and voilà—no more batteries. I did this with my front porch camera, and it’s been rock-solid for 10 months. No battery swaps, no charging, just constant surveillance.

Important note: The adapter is model-specific. Don’t try to force it into a Pro 2 or Pro 3 Floodlight—it won’t fit. Check Arlo’s website for compatibility before buying.

Installation Tips for Arlo’s Official Accessories

When installing the power adapter, use the included wall clips to secure the cable. I ran mine under my porch roof to protect it from rain and UV damage. For solar panels, use the mounting kit to tilt the panel at a 30–45 degree angle—this helps snow slide off in winter.

One mistake I made early on: I didn’t seal the USB port with the provided rubber cover. After a heavy rain, my camera briefly glitched. Lesson learned. Always use the weatherproofing accessories Arlo includes.

DIY AC Power Conversion: What Works and What Doesn’t

Can You Modify the Battery Compartment?

This is where things get tricky. The battery-powered Arlo cameras (like the Pro 2, Pro 3, and Essential) are designed to run on 3.7V lithium-ion batteries. But AC power is 120V (in the U.S.) or 230V (in Europe). You can’t just plug a wall wart into the battery slot—it’ll fry the camera.

However, some users have successfully modified their cameras using DC-DC voltage regulators. The idea is to step down AC power to 5V (USB) or 3.7V and feed it into the battery contacts. I tried this with a retired Pro 2 camera using a:

• 5V USB power adapter (from an old phone charger)
• USB-to-battery contact cable (sold on eBay for $10)
• Heat shrink tubing (to insulate the connections)

It worked! But it wasn’t perfect. The camera occasionally rebooted, likely due to voltage fluctuations. And I voided the warranty, of course.

Safety Risks and Warranty Implications

Warning: DIY conversion is risky. Arlo’s cameras aren’t designed for permanent wiring. You could:

• Damage the camera’s internal circuitry
• Create a fire hazard if the voltage is too high
• Void your warranty and insurance coverage

I know a guy in Texas who tried this and melted the camera’s charging port. The fire department said it could’ve started a house fire. Not worth it.

Also, if your camera fails and you’re using a DIY setup, Arlo won’t cover repairs. For most people, the risk outweighs the reward.

Alternative DIY: USB Extension Cables and Outdoor Outlets

If you’re set on DIY, here’s a safer method: use a weatherproof USB extension cable and an outdoor-rated power adapter. I did this with my garage camera:

1. Ran a 25-foot USB extension cable from an indoor outlet to the garage.
2. Used a waterproof USB outlet box (like the iClever Outdoor USB Socket) to protect the connection.
3. Plugged in a 5V/2A adapter and connected it to the camera’s USB port.

This keeps the camera powered without modifying it. The downside? You need an indoor outlet nearby. Not ideal for front yards or backyards far from the house.

Third-Party Accessories and Workarounds

Universal Power Kits and Cable Kits

Several third-party companies sell AC conversion kits for Arlo cameras. Brands like ArloMate and PowerMax offer:

• Weatherproof AC-to-USB adapters
• Long (50+ ft) USB extension cables
• Mounting brackets for outdoor outlets

I tested the ArloMate kit for my side gate camera. It came with a 50-foot UV-resistant USB cable and a 5V/2.4A adapter. Setup took 15 minutes, and the camera has been running for 8 months with zero issues.

One thing to watch: not all third-party adapters are UL-listed. I always check for safety certifications before buying. Cheap knockoffs can overheat or short-circuit.

PoE (Power over Ethernet) Converters

For tech-savvy users, PoE converters let you power your Arlo camera over an Ethernet cable. You’ll need:

• An Ethernet cable (Cat 5e or Cat 6)
• A PoE injector or PoE switch
• A PoE-to-USB converter (like the Ubiquiti PoE Adapter)

This method is great if you already have Ethernet cables run outdoors (e.g., for security systems). I used it for a camera in my detached shed. The cable carries both data and power, so I didn’t need Wi-Fi extenders. The only catch: PoE setups are more expensive ($100+ for the equipment).

Hybrid Solutions: Battery + AC Backup

If you want the best of both worlds, try a hybrid setup. Some users:

• Keep the battery in the camera as a backup
• Use a USB power bank (like the Jackery 240) connected to AC power
• Set up a solar panel to charge the power bank

This way, if the AC power goes out (e.g., during a storm), the camera switches to battery mode. I know a family in Florida who uses this setup—it saved them during a hurricane when the power was out for three days.

Step-by-Step Guide: Converting Your Arlo Camera to AC Power

Step 1: Check Your Camera Model

Not all Arlo cameras can be converted. Here’s a quick reference:

Camera Model	AC Power Compatible?	Official Solution	DIY Option
Arlo Pro 2	No	Solar Panel	USB extension cable
Arlo Pro 3/4	Yes	Power Adapter	USB or PoE
Arlo Ultra	Yes	Power Adapter	PoE
Arlo Essential	Yes	Power Adapter	USB
Arlo Go	Yes	Go Power Adapter	USB

Step 2: Choose Your Power Source

For official adapters:

1. Buy the Arlo Power Adapter (from Arlo or Amazon).
2. Remove the battery from your camera.
3. Plug the adapter into a GFCI-protected outdoor outlet.
4. Connect the cable to the camera’s USB port.

For USB extension cables:

1. Buy a weatherproof USB extension cable (e.g., 25–50 ft).
2. Plug one end into an indoor outlet.
3. Run the cable to your camera (use conduit if exposed).
4. Connect the camera and secure the connection with silicone sealant.

Step 3: Weatherproof and Secure the Setup

Outdoor electronics need protection. I use:

• Silicone sealant around USB connections
• PVC conduit for exposed cables
• Outdoor-rated outlet covers

For PoE setups, bury the Ethernet cable or use conduit to prevent damage from lawnmowers or rodents.

Step 4: Test and Monitor

After setup, check:

• The camera stays powered during rain/snow
• The Arlo app shows “Wired” or “USB Power” status
• No overheating (feel the adapter/cable after 24 hours)

I test mine monthly by unplugging the power for 10 minutes to ensure the battery (if present) kicks in.

Final Thoughts: Is AC Power Conversion Worth It?

After testing multiple methods over two years, here’s my take: converting battery-powered Arlo cameras to AC power is absolutely worth it—if you do it right. The peace of mind, reliability, and long-term savings make it a no-brainer for serious security setups.

But it’s not one-size-fits-all. If you have a Pro 3 or newer, go with Arlo’s official power adapter. It’s safe, easy, and designed for your camera. For older models, the solar panel or USB extension cable is your best bet. And if you’re tech-inclined, PoE offers a clean, professional solution.

Just remember: never attempt a DIY voltage conversion unless you’re 100% confident in your skills. The risk isn’t worth a $20 battery. Stick to manufacturer-recommended or well-tested third-party options.

At the end of the day, your home security should work when you need it—not when the battery decides it’s time for a recharge. By converting to AC power, you’re not just upgrading your cameras. You’re upgrading your peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can battery-powered Arlo cameras be converted to AC power using third-party adapters?

While some users attempt DIY AC power conversions with third-party adapters, this often voids the warranty and risks damaging the camera. Arlo does not endorse or guarantee compatibility with non-official power solutions.

Are there official Arlo accessories to convert my battery-powered camera to AC power?

Yes, Arlo offers AC power kits like the Arlo Solar Panel or Continuous Power Cable for select models (e.g., Pro 3/4/5, Ultra). These provide safe, warranty-compliant AC power conversion without modifying the camera.

Is it easy to convert battery-powered Arlo cameras to AC power permanently?

For compatible models, yes—using Arlo’s official power accessories requires no technical skills. Simply replace the battery with the AC adapter or plug in the solar panel, and the camera switches seamlessly to wired power.

Can I power my Arlo camera with AC while still keeping the battery as backup?

Yes, most Arlo AC power accessories (e.g., Continuous Power Cable) allow the battery to remain installed as a backup. If AC power fails, the camera automatically switches to battery power.

Which Arlo battery-powered cameras support AC power conversion?

Newer models like the Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5, and Ultra support AC power via official accessories. Older models (e.g., Original Pro) may not offer this feature—check Arlo’s website for compatibility.

Does converting to AC power improve Arlo camera performance?

Yes, AC power eliminates battery-related downtime and ensures uninterrupted operation. It’s ideal for high-traffic areas where frequent battery changes would otherwise be necessary.