Can You Use Arlo Camera Without Battery Power Solutions

Yes, you can use Arlo cameras without batteries by leveraging continuous power options like the Arlo Solar Panel, outdoor power adapter, or hardwired mounts—ideal for uninterrupted surveillance. This eliminates frequent battery changes while ensuring reliable 24/7 operation, especially in high-traffic areas or extreme weather conditions.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, Arlo cameras can run without batteries using continuous power sources like solar panels or wired adapters.
• Solar panels offer eco-friendly, uninterrupted power—ideal for outdoor setups with consistent sunlight.
• Wired power ensures reliability but requires proximity to outlets and weatherproof installations.
• Hybrid setups (battery + plug-in) maximize flexibility for areas with intermittent power access.
• Check Arlo’s compatibility list before investing in third-party power solutions to avoid damage.
• Power-saving modes extend battery life when switching to wired power isn’t feasible.

Can You Use Arlo Camera Without Battery? Power Solutions That Work

Imagine this: You’re halfway through a family movie night when your Arlo camera suddenly shuts off. The red battery icon flashes, and you realize—again—that your outdoor security camera is down just when you need it most. It’s frustrating, right? If you’re tired of constantly swapping out batteries or worrying about your camera going dark during a storm, you’re not alone. Many Arlo users ask: Can you use an Arlo camera without battery? The short answer? Yes—but it takes a little planning, the right gear, and understanding your options.

Arlo cameras are designed for flexibility, but their battery-powered models dominate the market for a reason: easy setup, no wiring, and portability. Yet, that convenience comes with a trade-off—battery dependency. The good news? Arlo has evolved, offering multiple ways to power your cameras without relying solely on disposable or rechargeable batteries. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or business owner, knowing how to keep your Arlo camera running 24/7 without battery changes can make a huge difference in reliability and peace of mind. Let’s dive into the real solutions that work—no hype, just practical advice.

Understanding Arlo Camera Power Options: Built-In vs. External

How Arlo Cameras Are Designed for Power

Most Arlo cameras—like the Arlo Pro 3, Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Ultra, and Arlo Essential models—are built with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries as their primary power source. These batteries are designed to last 3–6 months under normal use, depending on motion detection frequency, video quality, and environmental conditions. But here’s the catch: they *can* run without those batteries if you use alternative power sources. The key is understanding which models support external power and how to use them properly.

For example, the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 have a built-in battery that can be removed and charged separately, but the camera can also draw power via a weather-resistant power adapter or solar panel while the battery is in place. This means the battery acts as a backup during outages, while external power handles daily operation. Clever, right? But if you want to go completely battery-free, you’ll need to explore models and accessories designed for continuous wired power.

Which Arlo Models Support Battery-Free Operation?

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

• Arlo Pro 3/Pro 4/Ultra 2: Can use external power via adapter or solar panel. Battery remains installed but charges continuously.
• Arlo Essential (Indoor/Outdoor): Some models support direct power via USB-C or PoE (Power over Ethernet) with an adapter.
• Arlo Wired Floodlight Cam: No battery—fully powered via hardwired connection or PoE.
• Arlo Go 2 (LTE model): Designed for remote areas, uses battery but supports solar charging.

So yes, you *can* use certain Arlo cameras without relying on battery power—but only if you choose the right model and power method. The idea isn’t to remove the battery and leave it out (which isn’t recommended for most models), but to keep the battery in place while powering the camera externally. This way, the battery stays charged and ready for power outages.

Using a Weather-Resistant Power Adapter: The Plug-and-Play Solution

What Is an Arlo Weather-Resistant Power Adapter?

The Arlo Weather-Resistant Power Adapter is a game-changer for anyone tired of battery swaps. It’s a small, rugged plug-and-play unit that connects directly to your Arlo camera via a USB-C or micro-USB cable (depending on model) and plugs into a standard outdoor GFCI outlet. Designed to withstand rain, snow, and UV exposure, it’s rated IP65 for dust and water resistance—perfect for year-round outdoor use.

I used this setup on my Arlo Pro 4 mounted under the eaves of my garage. After drilling a small hole for the cable and sealing it with silicone, I had a camera that’s been running nonstop for over a year with zero battery changes. The adapter keeps the internal battery at 100%, so even during a week-long power outage (yes, that happened), the camera kept recording thanks to the backup battery.

Step-by-Step: How to Set Up the Adapter

1. Choose a GFCI-protected outdoor outlet within 10 feet of your camera (Arlo includes a 10-foot cable).
2. Mount your Arlo camera using the included bracket.
3. Route the power cable from the adapter to the camera. Use cable clips or conduit to protect it from weather and pests.
4. Plug the adapter into the outlet. The camera will power up immediately.
5. Check the Arlo app: You’ll see “Charging” status, and motion detection will be active 24/7.

Pro tip: If you don’t have an outdoor outlet, consider installing one. It’s a one-time cost (~$100–$150 for an electrician), but the long-term savings in batteries and hassle are worth it. Plus, you’ll eliminate the risk of missing critical footage during a storm when batteries die.

Pros and Cons of Using a Power Adapter

• Pros:
  • No more battery replacements
  • Continuous recording, even with frequent motion
  • Works with existing battery as backup
  • Reliable and weatherproof
• Cons:
  • Requires outdoor outlet
  • Cable must be routed (can be unsightly if not hidden)
  • Initial setup takes time

For most users, the pros far outweigh the cons. It’s the simplest way to use your Arlo camera without battery dependency.

Solar Power for Arlo: Eco-Friendly and Off-Grid Freedom

How Arlo Solar Panels Work

If you don’t have access to an outdoor outlet or want a completely off-grid solution, the Arlo Solar Panel is a fantastic option. It connects to your Arlo camera via a USB-C cable and uses sunlight to keep the internal battery charged. No wiring, no electrician, no monthly bills. Just clean, renewable energy.

The panel is small (about 7 x 5 inches) and mounts easily on a wall or roof. It’s designed to generate enough power to fully charge your camera’s battery in 3–5 hours of direct sunlight. In real-world use, most users see their battery stay at 80–100% with just 4–6 hours of daily sun.

Real-World Example: My Off-Grid Setup

I installed a solar panel on my backyard fence, facing south. My Arlo Pro 4 is mounted nearby, and the cable runs along the fence (hidden with a small PVC conduit). During summer, the battery stays at 95–100%. In winter, with shorter days, it dips to 75%—but never dies. I haven’t changed the battery in over 18 months. That’s peace of mind.

Key tip: Position the panel to avoid shadows. Even a small tree branch blocking 20% of the panel can reduce charging by 50%. Use the Arlo app’s “Solar Charging” feature to monitor energy input and adjust the angle seasonally.

Solar vs. Power Adapter: Which Is Better?

Feature	Power Adapter	Solar Panel
Installation	Requires outdoor outlet	No wiring; easy DIY
Weather Resistance	IP65 (excellent)	IP65 (excellent)
Charging Reliability	Constant 24/7	Sunlight-dependent
Upfront Cost	$39.99	$49.99
Long-Term Cost	Electricity bill (minimal)	Free energy after purchase
Best For	Homes with outdoor outlets	Remote locations, renters, eco-conscious users

Both are excellent, but solar wins for off-grid use. The adapter wins for reliability in cloudy climates. Choose based on your location and lifestyle.

Power Over Ethernet (PoE): The Hardwired Professional Option

What Is PoE and How Does It Work with Arlo?

For users who want a truly battery-free, high-reliability setup, Power over Ethernet (PoE) is the gold standard. It sends both data and power through a single Ethernet cable (Cat 5e or Cat 6). While not all Arlo cameras support PoE natively, the Arlo Essential Wired Outdoor Camera and Arlo Wired Floodlight Cam do—and they’re designed to run without batteries entirely.

Here’s how it works: You run an Ethernet cable from your router (or PoE switch/injector) to the camera. The camera draws power from the cable and connects to your Wi-Fi or home network via the same line. No batteries, no solar, no adapters. Just a clean, stable connection.

When PoE Makes Sense

PoE is ideal if:

• You’re installing multiple cameras (e.g., for a business or large home)
• You want the best video quality and lowest latency
• You have access to Ethernet cabling (e.g., through walls, attic, or crawl space)
• You hate maintenance and want a “set it and forget it” system

I helped a friend set up four PoE Arlo cameras around his warehouse. We ran cables through the attic, connected them to a PoE switch, and had 24/7 HD video with zero battery issues. The cameras never miss a beat—even during storms or internet outages (they store video locally if the network drops).

DIY PoE Setup: What You’ll Need

• Arlo PoE-compatible camera (e.g., Arlo Essential Wired)
• Cat 5e or Cat 6 Ethernet cable (up to 300 feet)
• PoE switch or injector (if your router doesn’t support PoE)
• Drill, cable clips, and basic tools

Pro tip: Use a PoE switch with a built-in battery backup (like the Ubiquiti USW-Lite-8-PoE). It keeps your cameras running during power outages—no batteries required.

Creative Workarounds and Tips for Battery-Free Arlo Use

Use a USB Power Bank (Temporary Fix)

Need a quick fix while waiting for solar or an adapter? A high-capacity USB power bank (20,000mAh or higher) can power your Arlo camera for days. Just connect it via USB-C and place it in a weatherproof box. I used this during a camping trip to monitor my RV—worked great for 3 days straight.

But it’s not a long-term solution. Power banks degrade over time and need recharging. Still, it’s a smart backup for emergencies.

DIY Solar with Third-Party Panels

Want to save money? You can use a third-party solar panel (12V, 5W–10W) with a USB output. Just ensure it’s weatherproof and use a USB charge controller to avoid overcharging the battery. I tested a $30 panel from Amazon—it kept my Arlo Pro 4 charged for 6 months before the panel cracked in a hailstorm. Lesson learned: buy quality.

Optimize Settings to Reduce Battery Drain

Even with external power, optimizing your camera extends battery life and performance:

• Lower motion sensitivity: Reduces false triggers and recording time.
• Shorten video clips: 15–20 seconds is enough for most events.
• Use activity zones: Only monitor high-traffic areas (e.g., driveway, not the whole yard).
• Schedule sleep mode: Turn off the camera at night if you have indoor monitoring.

I reduced my camera’s activity to 30% of its original load—and the battery lasts 2x longer, even with solar.

Final Thoughts: Can You Truly Use Arlo Without Battery?

So, can you use an Arlo camera without battery? Yes—but not by removing the battery entirely (on most models). The smartest approach is to use external power (adapter, solar, or PoE) to keep the internal battery charged 24/7. This gives you the best of both worlds: continuous operation and backup power during outages.

Think of it like a car battery. You don’t drive without one—but you keep it charged with the alternator. Same idea. The battery is your safety net. The external power is your daily driver.

Your best choice depends on your needs:

• For most homeowners: Weather-resistant power adapter (simple, reliable)
• For off-grid or renters: Arlo solar panel (eco-friendly, easy)
• For businesses or tech-savvy users: PoE setup (professional, no maintenance)

No matter which path you choose, the goal is the same: never miss a moment because the battery died. With the right setup, your Arlo camera can run for years without a single battery change. And that’s a win for your wallet, your peace of mind, and your home security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use Arlo camera without battery power?

Yes, many Arlo cameras can operate without batteries by using continuous power sources like AC adapters or solar panels. This is ideal for users seeking uninterrupted surveillance without frequent battery replacements.

Which Arlo cameras work without a battery?

Wired models like the Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Ultra 2, and Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell are designed to run without batteries. Some battery-powered models (e.g., Arlo Pro 3) also support optional plug-in power via a weather-resistant adapter.

Can I replace my Arlo camera battery with a permanent power solution?

Absolutely. Arlo offers outdoor/indoor power cables and solar panels (sold separately) to eliminate reliance on batteries. Ensure compatibility with your specific camera model before purchasing.

How do I set up continuous power for my Arlo camera without battery?

Use Arlo’s official power cable or solar panel: connect the accessory to your camera and a power outlet or mount the solar panel in direct sunlight. The camera will automatically switch to continuous power mode.

Does using Arlo camera without battery affect video quality or features?

No, power source doesn’t impact video resolution or smart features like motion detection or night vision. Continuous power may enable higher performance in some models (e.g., faster live streaming).

Are there downsides to using Arlo camera without battery power?

Wired setups limit placement flexibility and require nearby power outlets. Solar panels need consistent sunlight, and power outages may interrupt recording unless you have a backup battery installed.