Do Arlo Cameras Come with Batteries Find Out Here

Yes, most Arlo cameras come with batteries included, so you can start using them right out of the box—no immediate extra purchases needed. Battery models like the Arlo Pro and Ultra include rechargeable batteries, while others may use standard or proprietary power sources depending on the specific product. Always check your model’s details to confirm what’s in the box.

Key Takeaways

• Most Arlo cameras include batteries: Check packaging for CR123 or rechargeable options.
• Battery life varies: Expect 3–6 months depending on usage and model.
• Rechargeable models save costs: Opt for Arlo Pro series for swappable, rechargeable batteries.
• No batteries in wired models: Arlo Ultra/Pro Wired require no battery installation.
• Always carry spares: Keep extra batteries for uninterrupted outdoor monitoring.

Do Arlo Cameras Come with Batteries? Find Out Here

Imagine this: you’ve just unboxed your brand-new Arlo camera, excited to finally get that extra layer of security for your home. You’ve read the reviews, chosen the model that fits your needs, and now it’s time to set it up. But as you dig through the box, you start to wonder—do Arlo cameras come with batteries? Or are you going to have to make a last-minute trip to the store before you can even power it on?

It’s a question that pops up more often than you’d think, especially for first-time buyers. And honestly, it’s a fair one. After all, no one wants to be stuck with a camera that can’t turn on right out of the box. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about whether Arlo cameras come with batteries, what types they use, and how to make the most of them. Whether you’re eyeing the Arlo Pro, Ultra, or even the battery-free wired models, we’ll cover it all—no fluff, just real talk from someone who’s been in your shoes.

Understanding Arlo’s Power Options: Batteries vs. Wired

When it comes to Arlo cameras, the power source isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on the model, you’ll find a mix of battery-powered, solar-powered, and wired options. This variety is actually one of Arlo’s strengths, but it can also be confusing if you’re not sure which model you’re getting.

Battery-Powered Arlo Cameras: The Most Common Choice

Let’s start with the majority. Most Arlo cameras—especially the popular wireless models—are designed to run on batteries. These include:

• Arlo Pro series (Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4)
• Arlo Ultra series (Ultra, Ultra 2)
• Arlo Essential series (Essential, Essential Spotlight, Essential XL)
• Arlo Go (4G LTE model)

These cameras are built for flexibility. Since they’re wireless, you can install them anywhere—on a tree, a fence, under an eave—without worrying about running power cables. That’s a huge plus for renters, people with older homes, or anyone who doesn’t want to drill through walls.

But here’s the catch: do Arlo cameras come with batteries? The short answer is yes—but with a few nuances.

Wired Arlo Cameras: No Batteries Needed

Not all Arlo cameras rely on batteries. Some models are designed to be plugged into a power outlet or hardwired into your home’s electrical system. These include:

• Arlo Wired Floodlight Camera
• Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight (wired version)
• Arlo Video Doorbell (wired models)
• Arlo SmartHub with PoE support (for certain models)

If you’re going the wired route, you won’t need to buy batteries at all. These models draw power directly from your home’s electricity, so they’re always on and ready to record. That’s great for high-traffic areas like front doors or driveways where you need 24/7 coverage.

One thing to note: even some wired models (like the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight) offer a battery backup option. So if the power goes out, the camera can still run on its internal battery for a limited time. Handy, right?

Hybrid Options: The Best of Both Worlds

Then there are hybrid setups, like using a solar panel with a battery-powered camera. Arlo sells solar panels (sold separately) that can keep your battery-powered cameras charged continuously. This is a game-changer if you hate changing batteries or live in a sunny area.

For example, I have an Arlo Pro 3 mounted on my back porch. It’s battery-powered, but I paired it with the Arlo Solar Panel. After the initial setup, I haven’t had to touch the battery in over eight months. It’s been a total set-and-forget experience.

The takeaway? Arlo gives you options. You can go fully wireless with batteries, plug in for constant power, or use solar to extend battery life. But to answer your original question: yes, most battery-powered Arlo cameras do come with batteries—just not always the kind you might expect.

Do Arlo Cameras Come with Batteries? The Real Answer

Alright, let’s cut to the chase. You’re here because you want a straight answer: do Arlo cameras come with batteries? And the truth is: it depends on the model and the package you buy.

What’s Included in the Box?

When you buy a new Arlo camera (especially the battery-powered ones), here’s what you can typically expect to find in the box:

• The camera itself
• Rechargeable batteries (for most models)
• A magnetic charging cable or dock
• Mounting hardware (screws, brackets, adhesive pads)
• Quick start guide and safety info

Yes, most Arlo cameras do come with batteries pre-installed or included. For example:

• The Arlo Pro 3 comes with two rechargeable 3.7V lithium-ion batteries.
• The Arlo Ultra 2 includes one 3.8V battery (and a charging dock).
• The Arlo Essential Spotlight ships with a built-in, non-removable rechargeable battery.

But here’s where it gets tricky: some third-party sellers or older stock might not include batteries. I once bought an Arlo Pro 2 from a marketplace seller (not Arlo’s official store) and the batteries were missing. The listing didn’t mention it, and I had to buy replacements separately. Not ideal.

Rechargeable vs. Disposable: What Kind of Batteries Do They Use?

Arlo uses proprietary rechargeable batteries, not standard AA or AAA. This is important because:

• You can’t just run to the drugstore and swap them out.
• You need the right charging cable or dock to recharge them.
• They’re designed specifically for Arlo cameras, so they last longer and charge faster.

For example, the Arlo Pro series uses the Arlo Rechargeable Battery (Model: ARB100-10000S), which is a 3.7V lithium-ion pack. It’s not something you’ll find in a generic electronics store.

And here’s a pro tip: buy an extra battery or two. I keep two spares charged and ready to swap. When one battery runs low, I pop it out, put in a fresh one, and recharge the dead one overnight. This way, my cameras are never offline for long.

What If the Battery Isn’t Included?

While rare, it can happen. Here’s what to do if your Arlo camera arrives without batteries:

1. Check the product listing carefully—was it “batteries included” or “batteries not included”?
2. Contact the seller—if it’s missing from a new, sealed box, you may be eligible for a replacement or refund.
3. Buy genuine Arlo batteries—don’t risk using knockoffs. They might damage your camera or void the warranty.
4. Consider the Arlo Solar Panel—if you’re buying batteries anyway, the solar panel pays for itself in the long run.

One last thing: never use non-Arlo batteries. I tried using a third-party battery once (cheaper, same specs), and the camera kept showing “low battery” warnings even when it was fully charged. Arlo’s system is picky, and it’s not worth the hassle.

How Long Do Arlo Camera Batteries Last? (And How to Extend It)

Now that you know Arlo cameras come with batteries (usually), let’s talk about how long they actually last. Because let’s be honest—no one wants to be changing batteries every month.

Typical Battery Life by Model

Battery life depends on several factors: camera model, usage, weather, and settings. But here’s a general idea:

Camera Model	Estimated Battery Life	Key Influences
Arlo Pro 3	3–6 months	Motion frequency, video quality, night vision use
Arlo Ultra 2	2–4 months	4K recording, spotlight usage, Wi-Fi strength
Arlo Essential	4–8 months	Lower resolution, fewer features
Arlo Go (4G)	1–3 months	Cellular data usage, signal strength

As you can see, the more features you use, the shorter the battery life. For example, I turned off the spotlight on my Arlo Pro 3 and noticed the battery lasted about 30% longer. Small changes can make a big difference.

Tips to Maximize Battery Life

Want to squeeze every last drop out of your Arlo batteries? Try these real-world tips:

• Adjust motion detection sensitivity—if your camera is in a high-traffic area (like a front yard), it’ll record more often. Lower the sensitivity to reduce false triggers.
• Use activity zones—only record when motion happens in specific areas (e.g., the front porch, not the sidewalk).
• Lower video quality—switching from 4K to 1080p can extend battery life, especially for the Ultra series.
• Reduce recording length—set clips to 10–15 seconds instead of 30+.
• Turn off audio recording—microphones use extra power.
• Use the Arlo app’s “battery saver” mode—available on newer models.
• Install in a sheltered location—cold weather can drain batteries faster. I keep mine under eaves or in partial shade.

One of my favorite hacks? Use the Arlo app to schedule “off” hours. For example, I turn off my backyard camera between 2 AM and 5 AM when no one’s around. That small change added an extra month to the battery life.

When to Replace Batteries (and How)

Even with good habits, batteries won’t last forever. Most Arlo rechargeable batteries have a lifespan of 1–2 years with regular use.

Signs it’s time to replace them:

• Charge lasts less than half the original time
• Battery won’t hold a charge (dies quickly even when “full”)
• Camera shows “low battery” warnings frequently
• Battery gets hot during charging

Replacing them is simple:

1. Power off the camera (via the app)
2. Remove the battery compartment cover
3. Slide out the old battery
4. Insert the new one (make sure it clicks in)
5. Close the cover and restart the camera

Pro tip: label your spare batteries with the date. That way, you’ll know which ones are older and need replacing first.

Solar Power and Charging: The Game-Changer for Battery Cameras

If you’re tired of swapping batteries or just want a more sustainable setup, solar power is a fantastic option—and Arlo makes it easy.

How Arlo Solar Panels Work

Arlo’s solar panels (sold separately) connect directly to your battery-powered cameras. They charge the battery continuously during daylight hours, so you rarely—if ever—have to remove it.

I installed the Arlo Solar Panel (Model: ARS100-10000S) on my Pro 3 last summer. It’s mounted on the roof, facing south, with a clear view of the sun. Since then, I’ve only had to manually charge the battery twice—once during a week of heavy rain, and once when the panel got covered in snow.

The panel works with:

• Arlo Pro 3/4
• Arlo Ultra/Ultra 2
• Arlo Essential series (with adapter)

It’s not magic—it won’t power the camera 24/7 in winter or under heavy clouds—but it does reduce battery changes from every 4 months to once a year (or less).

Installation Tips for Solar Panels

Getting the most out of solar power comes down to placement:

• Face south (in the Northern Hemisphere)—maximizes sun exposure
• Angle it slightly downward—helps shed rain and snow
• Keep it clean—dust, leaves, and bird droppings reduce efficiency
• Use the Arlo app’s “solar charging” status—it shows real-time power input

One thing I learned the hard way: don’t install it too high. I initially mounted it on the peak of my roof, which looked great but was a pain to clean. Now it’s lower, easier to access, and still gets full sun.

Charging Without Solar: What You Need

If solar isn’t an option, here’s what you’ll need to keep your batteries charged:

• Arlo charging dock or cable—included with most kits
• USB power adapter—a standard phone charger works fine
• Extra batteries—so you can swap while one charges

I keep my charging dock on a shelf near my router. When a battery runs low, I pop it in, and the dock lights up to show charging progress. It’s simple, but it works.

Choosing the Right Arlo Camera: Battery vs. Wired vs. Solar

By now, you know that Arlo offers a range of power options. But which one is right for you? Let’s break it down with real-life scenarios.

Scenario 1: Renting or No Outdoor Outlets

If you’re in an apartment or don’t have outdoor power, go with a battery-powered Arlo Pro 3 or Essential. They’re easy to install, and you won’t need to drill holes. Just add a solar panel later if you want to cut down on battery changes.

Scenario 2: Permanent Installation (Homeowners)

If you own your home and have outdoor outlets, consider a wired Arlo camera like the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight (wired) or a hardwired doorbell. No batteries, no solar—just constant power.

Scenario 3: High-Traffic or 24/7 Coverage Needed

For areas like driveways or side yards, a hybrid setup works best. Use a battery-powered camera (like the Ultra 2) with a solar panel. You get flexibility plus long-term reliability.

Scenario 4: Budget-Friendly Setup

If you’re on a tight budget, the Arlo Essential is a great choice. It comes with a built-in battery, costs less, and still offers 1080p video and motion alerts. Just keep in mind the battery isn’t removable, so you’ll need to charge the whole unit.

One Last Tip: Buy Extra Batteries Upfront

No matter which model you choose, I always recommend buying at least one extra battery when you first purchase your camera. It’s cheaper than buying later, and it ensures you’re never without coverage.

And if you’re planning to use solar, buy the panel at the same time. Some bundles even offer discounts when you buy both together.

Final Thoughts: Yes, Arlo Cameras Do Come with Batteries (But There’s More to Know)

So, do Arlo cameras come with batteries? Yes—most do. Whether it’s a Pro, Ultra, or Essential model, you’ll usually find a rechargeable battery in the box. But as we’ve seen, the story doesn’t end there.

Understanding your power options—battery, wired, solar—is key to getting the most out of your Arlo system. Batteries offer flexibility, but they require maintenance. Wired cameras are reliable but limit placement. Solar power bridges the gap, letting you enjoy the best of both worlds.

From my own experience, the secret to hassle-free Arlo ownership is planning ahead. Buy extra batteries, consider solar early, and tweak your settings to match your lifestyle. Do that, and you’ll have a security system that’s not just smart—but truly worry-free.

At the end of the day, Arlo’s flexibility is what makes it stand out. Whether you’re a renter, a homeowner, or somewhere in between, there’s a setup that works for you. And now, with a clear answer to “do Arlo cameras come with batteries?”—you’re ready to make the right choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras come with batteries included?

Yes, most Arlo cameras (like Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra) come with rechargeable batteries included in the box. However, some models may require separate battery purchases, so always check the product listing.

What type of batteries do Arlo cameras use?

Arlo cameras typically use proprietary lithium-ion rechargeable batteries designed for specific models (e.g., Arlo Pro batteries for Arlo Pro 3/4). Third-party batteries are not recommended as they may affect performance or warranty.

How long do the batteries last in Arlo cameras?

Arlo camera batteries generally last 3–6 months per charge, depending on usage, settings, and environmental factors. Motion detection frequency and live streaming significantly impact battery life.

Can I buy extra batteries for my Arlo camera?

Yes, Arlo sells replacement batteries for most models (e.g., Arlo Pro 4 battery) on their website or through retailers. Having spares lets you swap and recharge while maintaining continuous coverage.

Are Arlo camera batteries rechargeable?

Absolutely! All Arlo batteries are rechargeable via USB or the Arlo charging station. Some newer models support solar panel charging for extended battery life.

Do I need to charge Arlo camera batteries before first use?

Yes, it’s recommended to fully charge the batteries before initial setup. While they often come with some charge, a complete charge ensures optimal performance and battery calibration.