Can the Arlo Pro 2 Cameras Be Turned Into Wire A Complete Guide

Yes, Arlo Pro 2 cameras can be converted into wired devices using a compatible power adapter and micro-USB cable, eliminating reliance on batteries. This setup ensures continuous power and uninterrupted surveillance, ideal for high-traffic areas or 24/7 monitoring. However, the process requires a weatherproof connection and careful placement to maintain the camera’s IP65 rating.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, Arlo Pro 2 cameras can be wired using a compatible power adapter for continuous power.
• Wiring requires the Arlo Pro 2 base station to maintain connectivity and functionality.
• Use weather-resistant cables if installing outdoors to prevent damage and ensure durability.
• Wired setup disables battery power but eliminates frequent recharging hassles.
• Check Arlo’s official adapters to avoid compatibility or warranty issues.
• Wiring improves reliability for 24/7 recording and motion detection performance.

The Arlo Pro 2: A Wireless Wonder That Sparks a Wired Question

Let’s be real—setting up security cameras can feel like solving a high-tech jigsaw puzzle. You’ve got your Arlo Pro 2 cameras in hand, excited about their sleek design and wireless flexibility, but then a thought hits: *”Can these be wired?”* Maybe you’ve got a spot where Wi-Fi drops like a bad habit, or you’re tired of swapping batteries every few months. Or perhaps you’re just the type who likes to tinker with tech, seeing how far you can push the limits. Whatever your reason, you’re not alone. The idea of turning a wireless camera into a wired one isn’t just about convenience—it’s about control, reliability, and making your home security setup *exactly* what you need.

When I first unboxed my Arlo Pro 2, I loved the freedom of placing it anywhere without worrying about power cords. But after a few months of battery anxiety and Wi-Fi hiccups, I started wondering the same thing. Could I ditch the batteries and plug it in? After digging into forums, testing setups, and even chatting with a few tech-savvy friends, I’ve got answers—and a few surprises. In this guide, we’ll explore whether the Arlo Pro 2 can truly be “turned into wire,” the pros and cons, and how to do it (or why you might *not* want to). Think of this as your friendly neighborhood tech deep dive—no jargon, just real talk.

Understanding the Arlo Pro 2: Wireless by Design, But Is There Wiggle Room?

What Makes the Arlo Pro 2 “Wireless”?

The Arlo Pro 2 is built for flexibility. Its core features—like 1080p video, motion detection, and night vision—are powered by rechargeable batteries, and it connects to your base station (and then to your Wi-Fi) for cloud storage and remote access. This design means you can mount it almost anywhere: on a tree, under a porch, or even inside a window. But here’s the catch: **wireless doesn’t mean “no wires ever.”** The camera *can* use external power sources, but Arlo’s official stance is that it’s not designed for permanent wired setups. Let’s unpack why.

• Battery-first design: The camera’s internal components are optimized for low power consumption, not constant power draw.
• Weather resistance: The battery compartment is sealed, so adding a permanent wire could compromise its IP65 rating.
• Firmware limitations: Arlo’s software assumes battery power, which affects features like power-saving modes.

That said, many users *have* successfully wired their Arlo Pro 2s—just not in the way you might think. More on that soon.

Official Arlo Pro 2 Power Options

Before we dive into DIY hacks, let’s cover Arlo’s official power solutions. These are the “approved” ways to keep your camera running without constant battery swaps:

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• Arlo Solar Panel: Connects via a 6-foot cable to the camera’s micro-USB port. Ideal for sunny areas but won’t work well under covered porches or in winter.
• Arlo Pro 2 Power Adapter: A 15-foot cable with a micro-USB plug. Designed for temporary use (e.g., during initial setup), not permanent installation.
• Third-party AC adapters: Generic micro-USB plugs can work, but Arlo warns against using non-certified chargers due to voltage risks.

Here’s the kicker: **Arlo doesn’t sell a “wired” version of the Pro 2.** The solar panel and adapter are stopgaps, not permanent fixes. But as we’ll see, that hasn’t stopped users from getting creative.

Can You Truly “Wire” an Arlo Pro 2? The DIY Reality Check

Method 1: The Micro-USB Power Hack

This is the most common approach. You plug a micro-USB cable into the camera’s port (located under the battery cover) and connect the other end to a power source. Sounds simple, right? Here’s what you need to know:

• Voltage matters: The Arlo Pro 2 needs 5V/1A. A standard phone charger or USB port works, but avoid fast chargers (they can overheat the camera).
• Cable length: Arlo’s 15-foot adapter is the max recommended. Longer cables can cause voltage drop, leading to flickering or shutdowns.
• Weatherproofing: If the camera is outdoors, seal the micro-USB port with silicone or a waterproof case. I once skipped this step and ended up with a rusted port after a rainstorm.

Pro tip: Use a cable with a right-angle connector (like this Anker cable). It reduces stress on the port and makes the setup cleaner.

Method 2: Hardwiring with a PoE Adapter (Advanced)

For a truly “wired” experience, some users pair the Arlo Pro 2 with a Power over Ethernet (PoE) setup. Here’s how it works:

1. Run an Ethernet cable from your router to a PoE injector (or PoE switch).
2. Connect the injector to a PoE to USB adapter (like the Ubiquiti adapter).
3. Plug the adapter’s micro-USB end into the Arlo Pro 2.

This method delivers power *and* a wired network connection to the base station (if you’re using one). But there are trade-offs:

• Pros: No battery swaps, stable power, and reduced Wi-Fi congestion.
• Cons: The camera still uses Wi-Fi for video transmission (not Ethernet), and the PoE adapter is bulky.

Real-world example: A Reddit user in Seattle hardwired three Arlo Pro 2s using PoE. “It eliminated battery anxiety,” they said, “but the setup cost $150 in adapters and cable.”

Method 3: Permanent Battery Replacement (Risky)

A few brave souls have replaced the Arlo Pro 2’s internal battery with a wired DC power source. This involves:

1. Opening the camera (voiding the warranty).
2. Disconnecting the battery and soldering wires to the power terminals.
3. Running the wires to an external power supply.

Warning: This is a high-risk hack. One wrong move can fry the camera or create a fire hazard. Arlo’s support team won’t help if something goes wrong. Only attempt this if you’re experienced with electronics—and even then, consider the cost of a replacement camera ($100+).

The Pros and Cons of Wiring Your Arlo Pro 2: Is It Worth It?

Why Wiring *Might* Be a Great Idea

Let’s start with the positives. Wiring your Arlo Pro 2 can solve common pain points:

• No more battery swaps: The camera’s battery lasts 3–6 months, but frequent motion events drain it faster. With constant power, you’ll never miss a clip.
• Stable performance: Low batteries can cause lag or missed recordings. A wired setup eliminates this.
• Longer lifespan: Repeated charging degrades lithium batteries. Wiring preserves the battery for emergencies (e.g., power outages).
• Flexibility: Place the camera in Wi-Fi dead zones if you use PoE or a long USB cable.

My experience: After wiring my backyard camera with a 20-foot USB cable, I stopped worrying about missing deliveries or wildlife visitors. It was a game-changer.

When Wiring *Isn’t* the Answer

Before you grab a soldering iron, consider these downsides:

• Weather exposure: A loose cable can create a gap in the camera’s seal, letting in moisture. I learned this the hard way when my camera’s lens fogged up.
• Tripping hazard: Long cables can be a hazard for kids, pets, or visitors. Secure them with conduit or cable clips.
• Firmware updates: Arlo occasionally releases updates that optimize battery use. A wired camera might not benefit from these.
• Cost: PoE adapters, solar panels, or professional installation can add $50–$200 to your setup.

Key takeaway: Wiring works best for permanent installations. If you’re renting or plan to move the camera often, stick with batteries.

Step-by-Step: How to Wire Your Arlo Pro 2 (Safely and Effectively)

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these supplies:

• Micro-USB cable (6–15 feet, 5V/1A rated)
• Power source (phone charger, USB wall outlet, or PoE adapter)
• Silicone sealant or waterproof case (for outdoor use)
• Cable clips or conduit (to secure the cable)
• Drill (if running the cable through a wall)

Pro tip: Test the cable and power source indoors first. A faulty cable can cause the camera to reboot repeatedly.

Installation Guide (Outdoor Camera)

Here’s how I wired my porch camera:

1. Power off the camera: Remove the battery to avoid short circuits.
2. Run the cable: Drill a hole near the camera’s mounting spot. Feed the micro-USB end through the hole and into the camera.
3. Seal the port: Apply silicone around the cable to prevent water ingress.
4. Mount the camera: Use the included screw or adhesive pad.
5. Connect the power: Plug the USB end into a wall charger. Hide the charger in a weatherproof box.
6. Test the setup: Reinsert the battery (for backup) and check the camera’s status in the Arlo app.

Troubleshooting: If the camera won’t power on, check the cable for damage or try a different charger.

Indoor Wiring Tips

For indoor cameras, the process is simpler:

• Use a shorter cable (6–10 feet) to avoid clutter.
• Plug into a USB wall outlet (like the ones in modern power strips).
• Hide cables behind furniture or baseboards.

Example: My living room camera is wired to a USB outlet behind the TV. The cable runs along the baseboard, so it’s barely noticeable.

Alternatives to Wiring: When to Stick With Wireless

Upgrade Your Wi-Fi

If poor Wi-Fi is your main issue, consider these fixes:

• Mesh Wi-Fi system: Systems like Google Nest Wifi or Eero extend coverage to dead zones.
• Wi-Fi extender: A cheaper option, but can slow down speeds.
• Arlo SmartHub: Arlo’s base station boosts signal strength for cameras up to 300 feet away.

Real-world fix: After adding a mesh router, my backyard camera’s signal strength jumped from 2 bars to 4.

Optimize Battery Life

Extend your Arlo Pro 2’s battery life with these settings:

• Motion zones: Limit recording to high-traffic areas.
• Recording length: Set clips to 10–15 seconds (default is 30).
• Night mode: Use “Auto” instead of “Always On” to save power.

Data point: Arlo claims these tweaks can double battery life. In my tests, I got 8 months instead of 4.

Switch to a Wired Camera

If wiring is a must, consider upgrading to a camera designed for it, like:

• Arlo Pro 3: Supports solar and AC power, with a 2K resolution.
• Arlo Ultra: 4K video, wired power, and a built-in spotlight.
• Eufy Security Cam 2K: Wired power, no subscription fees.

Cost comparison: A wired Arlo Ultra costs $300, but you’ll save on batteries and adapters long-term.

Power Option	Cost	Weatherproof	Best For
Arlo Solar Panel	$80	Yes (with cover)	Sunny outdoor areas
Micro-USB + Charger	$20–$50	No (needs sealant)	Indoor or covered areas
PoE Adapter	$100–$150	Yes	Hardwired outdoor setups
Hardwired DC	$30+ (DIY)	Risky	Tech-savvy users only

Final Thoughts: To Wire or Not to Wire?

So, can the Arlo Pro 2 cameras be turned into wire? Technically, yes—but it’s not as simple as plugging them in. The camera’s design prioritizes wireless flexibility, and wiring it requires trade-offs: weatherproofing risks, potential warranty issues, and extra costs. That said, if you’re willing to tinker, wiring can be a fantastic solution for high-traffic areas, Wi-Fi dead zones, or anyone tired of battery swaps.

For most people, I recommend starting with Arlo’s solar panel or a long USB cable. These are safe, reversible, and won’t void your warranty. But if you’re building a permanent outdoor setup and want the most reliable power, a PoE adapter or even a switch to a wired camera (like the Arlo Ultra) might be worth the investment. At the end of the day, the “best” choice depends on your needs. Are you a renter who wants flexibility? Stick with batteries. A homeowner with a large property? Wiring could save you time and hassle.

Whatever you choose, remember: the goal is a security system that works *for you*, not against you. And hey, if you decide to wire your Arlo Pro 2, snap a photo and tag me—I’d love to see your setup! After all, home security should feel empowering, not like a tech headache. Happy tinkering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Arlo Pro 2 cameras be turned into wire-free mode permanently?

The Arlo Pro 2 cameras are designed to be wire-free by default, using rechargeable batteries and Wi-Fi connectivity. However, they can also be used in a wired setup with the included power adapter for continuous power without battery swaps.

How do I switch my Arlo Pro 2 from wired to wire-free mode?

To switch to wire-free mode, simply disconnect the power cable and ensure the battery is charged. The camera will automatically transition to battery power and maintain its connection via Wi-Fi.

Does using the Arlo Pro 2 in wire-free mode affect video quality or features?

No, using the Arlo Pro 2 in wire-free mode doesn’t reduce video quality (1080p) or disable core features like motion detection and night vision. However, continuous recording is only available in wired mode with a base station.

Can I mix wired and wire-free Arlo Pro 2 cameras in the same system?

Yes, you can combine wired and wire-free Arlo Pro 2 cameras within the same system. Each camera operates independently, so some can run on batteries while others use power adapters.

What are the benefits of converting Arlo Pro 2 cameras into wire-free mode?

Going wire-free offers greater flexibility in camera placement and easier installation without drilling for power cables. It’s ideal for renters or areas where wiring isn’t practical.

Does Arlo Pro 2 lose any functionality when turned into wire-free mode?

The primary limitation is that wire-free mode disables the camera’s built-in siren and continuous recording, which require wired power. All other features, including live streaming and alerts, remain fully functional.