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Yes, you can plug in an Arlo camera for continuous power and uninterrupted surveillance, but only select models—like the Arlo Pro series—support wired connections via a power adapter. Always use Arlo-certified cables and check compatibility to avoid damage and ensure optimal performance.
Key Takeaways
- Yes, you can plug in Arlo cameras using compatible power adapters for continuous power.
- Check model compatibility first—not all Arlo cameras support wired power options.
- Use Arlo-approved cables to avoid damage or voiding your warranty.
- Indoor cameras plug in easily via standard outlets for non-stop operation.
- Outdoor models need weatherproof setups like outdoor-rated extension cords or PoE.
- Wired power reduces battery changes, ideal for high-traffic or critical monitoring areas.
📑 Table of Contents
Understanding Arlo Cameras and Their Power Options
When I first set up my Arlo camera system, I remember standing in my backyard, staring at the tiny device in my hand, wondering: Can you plug in an Arlo camera? It seemed like a simple question, but after a quick scroll through the manual, I realized the answer wasn’t as straightforward as I’d hoped. Arlo cameras are marketed as wire-free and battery-powered, which is great for flexibility, but what if you want a more permanent, plug-in solution? After a few trials (and a minor power mishap), I learned that the answer depends on the model, your needs, and a bit of technical tweaking.
Arlo, a leader in smart home security, offers a range of cameras—some designed to be truly wireless, others with optional plug-in capabilities. Whether you’re installing a camera in your garage, front porch, or a high-traffic area, understanding how to power your Arlo camera can make the difference between a seamless setup and a frustrating one. In this post, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of plugging in an Arlo camera, covering everything from compatibility and power requirements to real-world tips from my own experience.
Which Arlo Cameras Can Be Plugged In?
Wire-Free Models vs. Plug-In Options
Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to power. The brand’s most popular models, like the Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Ultra, are designed as wire-free, battery-powered devices. They’re perfect for renters or those who want easy installation without drilling holes for wires. But here’s the catch: can you plug in an Arlo camera from these lines? Technically, yes—but it requires an additional accessory.
The Arlo Solar Panel or Arlo Power Adapter (sold separately) lets you connect your wire-free camera to a power source. Think of it as a bridge between the battery and your wall outlet. For example, I use a solar panel on my backyard Arlo Pro 3 to keep it charged during the day, while my front porch camera uses a power adapter for 24/7 operation. This setup is ideal for high-traffic areas where battery swaps would be a hassle.
Always-On Cameras: Arlo’s Plug-In Models
If you’re looking for a camera that’s designed to be plugged in from the start, Arlo has a few options. The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera and Arlo Essential Outdoor Wired Camera come with built-in power cords. These models are always on, eliminating the need for battery changes. I installed the outdoor wired version in my garage, where it’s connected to an outlet behind a weatherproof cover. The setup took five minutes, and it’s been rock-solid ever since.
Here’s a quick comparison of plug-in capabilities across popular Arlo models:
| Arlo Model | Power Type | Plug-In Accessory Needed? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arlo Pro 3 | Battery (rechargeable) | Yes (Power Adapter or Solar Panel) | Flexible, temporary setups |
| Arlo Ultra | Battery (rechargeable) | Yes (Power Adapter or Solar Panel) | High-resolution monitoring |
| Arlo Essential Indoor | Plug-in (built-in cord) | No | Always-on indoor monitoring |
| Arlo Essential Outdoor Wired | Plug-in (built-in cord) | No | Outdoor areas with power access |
Pro Tip: If you’re buying a wire-free Arlo camera but plan to plug it in, factor in the cost of the power adapter (around $20) or solar panel (~$50). It’s a small investment for peace of mind!
How to Plug In a Wire-Free Arlo Camera (Step-by-Step)
Using the Arlo Power Adapter
Let’s say you’ve got an Arlo Pro 3 and want to ditch the batteries. Here’s how to plug it in:
- Buy the Arlo Power Adapter: It’s a small, weather-resistant box with a USB-C or micro-USB connector (depending on your camera).
- Connect the Adapter to the Camera: Remove the battery cover, plug the adapter into the charging port, and reattach the cover. (Yes, it’s that simple!)
- Route the Cable: Use the included adhesive mounts or clips to secure the cable along walls, eaves, or gutters. I ran mine under my porch railing to hide the cord.
- Plug Into an Outlet: Use an outdoor-rated extension cord if needed. For safety, I recommend a GFCI outlet or a surge protector.
I tried this with my front door camera, and it worked like a charm. The only hiccup? The adapter’s cable is only 25 feet long. If your outlet is farther, you’ll need an extension—just make sure it’s rated for outdoor use.
Solar Panels: A Cleaner Alternative
For a truly wireless plug-in experience, solar panels are a game-changer. I installed one on my backyard Arlo Ultra last summer, and it’s been charging the camera for 9 months straight (even in winter!). Here’s what to know:
- Position the Panel: Aim for 6+ hours of direct sunlight. I mounted mine on a south-facing fence with a 30° tilt.
- Connect to the Camera: The panel has a built-in USB-C cable that plugs into the camera’s charging port.
- Check the App: The Arlo app shows solar charging status. If it’s not charging, adjust the panel’s angle.
Real Talk: Solar panels work great in sunny climates but may struggle in cloudy areas. I live in Seattle, and mine still works—just not as efficiently in winter.
Weatherproofing and Safety Tips
Plugging in an outdoor camera means dealing with rain, snow, and temperature swings. Here’s how to protect your setup:
- Use a Weatherproof Outlet Cover: I use a Leviton 5940-2W cover, which seals the outlet when the plug is in.
- Seal Cable Entry Points: Apply silicone caulk where the cable enters your home to prevent water damage.
- Elevate the Adapter: Don’t let the power adapter sit on the ground. Mount it on a wall or under eaves.
Plug-In vs. Battery: Which Power Source Is Better?
The Pros of Plugging In
Plugging in an Arlo camera has clear advantages:
- Never Worry About Batteries: No more mid-vacation panic when the app says “battery low.”
- Higher Performance: Plug-in cameras can run features like 4K streaming or continuous recording (if supported).
- Reliability: No risk of batteries dying in extreme heat or cold.
I learned this the hard way when my battery-powered Arlo Pro 3 died during a winter storm. After that, I switched to a plugged-in Essential Outdoor camera for my front door. It’s been flawless.
The Case for Batteries
Batteries aren’t all bad. Here’s why some users prefer them:
- Installation Flexibility: No need for outlets. I put a battery-powered camera in my garden shed, where there’s no electricity.
- Portability: Take the camera down temporarily (e.g., for a party or vacation).
- Cost: No extra accessories needed.
My Take: For high-traffic areas (front door, garage), plug in. For remote spots (backyard shed, attic), stick with batteries. It’s all about context!
Cost Comparison: Long-Term Value
Let’s break down the costs:
- Plug-In Setup: Camera + power adapter/solar panel + outlet installation (~$20–$50 extra).
- Battery Setup: Camera + 2–3 spare batteries (~$15 each) + occasional replacements.
Over 2 years, a plug-in camera saves ~$60 in batteries. Plus, you’ll save time (no swapping) and stress (no dead cameras).
Common Challenges and How to Fix Them
Outlet Accessibility Issues
Not every home has outdoor outlets where you need them. Here are solutions:
- Use an Extension Cord: I ran a 50-foot outdoor-rated cord from my garage to my backyard camera. Just secure it with clips to avoid tripping hazards.
- Install a New Outlet: If you’re comfortable with DIY, add a weatherproof outlet. (Or hire an electrician—better safe than sorry.)
- Go Solar: No outlet? No problem. A solar panel works anywhere with sunlight.
Power Adapter Failures
Some users report adapter overheating or failing. To avoid this:
- Use Arlo’s Official Adapter: Third-party USB-C cables may damage the camera.
- Check for Updates: Arlo occasionally releases firmware updates to improve power management.
- Monitor Temperature: Don’t install the adapter in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
I once used a cheap USB-C cable from Amazon, and my camera’s charging port got fried. Lesson learned: stick with Arlo’s accessories.
Wi-Fi Interference from Power Cords
Power cables can interfere with Wi-Fi signals. If your camera keeps disconnecting:
- Separate the Cables: Keep the power cord at least 6 inches from the camera’s antenna.
- Use a Wi-Fi Extender: I added an Arlo SmartHub to boost my backyard camera’s signal.
- Switch to 5GHz Wi-Fi: Less interference than 2.4GHz.
Real-World Tips from Arlo Users
Creative Plug-In Hacks
Arlo users are a clever bunch. Here are some genius ideas:
- Under-Eave Mounting: One Reddit user drilled a tiny hole in their soffit, ran the cable inside, and connected it to an outlet in the attic. No visible wires!
- Outlet Behind the Camera: Install a recessed outlet box behind the camera to hide the plug.
- Power Over Ethernet (PoE): Tech-savvy users have hacked PoE adapters for Arlo cameras (not officially supported, but it works).
When to Avoid Plug-In Solutions
Plugging in isn’t always the answer. Consider battery power if:
- You rent and can’t modify the property.
- You need a temporary setup (e.g., monitoring a construction site).
- Your area has frequent power outages (batteries act as a backup).
I once tried plugging in a camera for a short-term rental, but the landlord made me remove it. Batteries would’ve been the smarter choice.
Expert Recommendations
Based on my research and testing, here’s what I recommend:
- For New Buyers: Get the Arlo Essential Outdoor Wired if you have outlet access. It’s the easiest plug-and-play option.
- For Existing Wire-Free Users: Add a solar panel for eco-friendly charging or a power adapter for reliability.
- For Renters: Stick with batteries—or ask your landlord for permission to install a discreet outlet.
Remember: can you plug in an Arlo camera? Absolutely. But the best approach depends on your home, habits, and patience for DIY projects.
In the end, Arlo’s flexibility is its strength. Whether you choose batteries, solar, or a hardwired setup, you’re getting a reliable camera that adapts to your life. So go ahead—plug in that camera, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with never running out of power again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you plug in an Arlo camera directly to a power source?
Yes, most Arlo cameras can be plugged into a power outlet using an AC adapter (sold separately), offering a continuous power solution instead of relying on batteries. This is ideal for indoor models like the Arlo Pro series or Arlo Essential variants with wired options.
Which Arlo cameras support plug-in power?
Wired plug-in power is available for select models, including the Arlo Pro 3/4/5, Ultra, and Essential Wired. Battery-powered models like the original Arlo Wire-Free can also use an adapter but require a compatible outdoor-rated kit for weather protection.
Can you plug in an Arlo camera outdoors safely?
Yes, but only with an outdoor-rated power adapter (e.g., Arlo Solar Panel or Weather-Resistant Power Adapter) and proper installation. Ensure the outlet is GFCI-protected and connections are shielded from moisture to prevent damage.
Do all Arlo cameras need to be plugged in for 24/7 recording?
Plug-in power enables 24/7 recording for supported cameras, but continuous recording also requires an Arlo SmartHub or base station and a subscription plan (e.g., Arlo Secure) for cloud storage. Battery-only models rely on event-triggered recordings.
Can you plug in an Arlo camera without a base station?
Some newer models, like the Arlo Essential or Ultra 2, support direct Wi-Fi plug-in without a base station. However, features like local backup or enhanced connectivity may require a SmartHub.
What happens if you plug in an Arlo camera while using batteries?
Plugging in an Arlo camera with batteries installed allows the adapter to power the device directly, conserving battery life. The system automatically prioritizes wired power, but batteries act as a backup during outages.