Do Arlo Cameras Come With Rechargeable Batteries Find Out Here

Yes, most Arlo cameras come with rechargeable batteries, making them a convenient, eco-friendly choice for home security. Models like the Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra include long-lasting, removable batteries that reduce the hassle of constant replacements while supporting continuous surveillance.

Key Takeaways

• Most Arlo cameras include rechargeable batteries for immediate use.
• Check model specifics: Some require separate battery purchases.
• Rechargeable batteries reduce long-term costs vs. disposable ones.
• Swappable batteries ensure uninterrupted surveillance during charging.
• Use Arlo chargers only to maintain battery lifespan and safety.
• Battery life varies based on usage and environmental conditions.

Do Arlo Cameras Come With Rechargeable Batteries? Find Out Here

Let’s face it—when you’re setting up a home security system, the last thing you want is to be stuck with a camera that dies after a few weeks and forces you to run to the store for expensive replacements. I’ve been there. A few years ago, I installed a smart camera system that used disposable batteries. I thought I was saving money, but within a month, I was replacing batteries every other week. It was a hassle. That’s when I started researching brands that offered more sustainable, long-term solutions—like rechargeable batteries. And that’s how I discovered Arlo.

Arlo is one of the most popular names in the smart security camera space, known for sleek designs, easy installation, and smart features like motion detection and night vision. But one question keeps coming up from curious homeowners and apartment dwellers alike: “Do Arlo cameras come with rechargeable batteries?” The short answer is: it depends. But the full answer? That’s what we’re diving into today. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or thinking of upgrading your current setup, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Arlo’s battery options—what’s included, what’s optional, and how to get the most out of your system without constantly swapping out dead cells.

Understanding Arlo’s Camera Lineup and Battery Types

Before we jump into whether Arlo cameras come with rechargeable batteries, it’s important to understand that Arlo offers several camera models, each with different power needs and battery configurations. Not all Arlo cameras use batteries, and not all battery-powered ones come with rechargeable options right out of the box.

Which Arlo Cameras Use Batteries?

Arlo’s battery-powered lineup includes some of its most popular models:

• Arlo Pro 4 – A top-tier wireless outdoor camera with 2K video and color night vision.
• Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera (Wireless) – A budget-friendly option with built-in spotlight and siren.
• Arlo Go 2 – A cellular-based camera for remote or off-grid locations.
• Arlo Ultra 2 – The flagship model with 4K HDR and advanced AI detection.
• Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight – Combines a camera with a powerful floodlight, all battery-powered.

These models are designed for flexibility—no wires, no drilling, no power outlets required. But that freedom comes at a cost: battery management.

Do They Include Rechargeable Batteries?

Here’s the good news: yes, most battery-powered Arlo cameras come with rechargeable batteries included. For example:

• The Arlo Pro 4 includes a single Arlo Rechargeable Battery (Model: A-100) in the box.
• The Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera comes with a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery—no swapping needed.
• The Arlo Ultra 2 includes two high-capacity rechargeable batteries and a dual charging station.

However, there’s a catch. Some models, like the Arlo Go 2, require a separate purchase of a rechargeable battery pack (sold as an add-on). And while the Essential Spotlight has a built-in battery, it’s not user-replaceable—meaning if it fails, you’ll need to contact Arlo support or consider a replacement.

What About Non-Battery Models?

Not all Arlo cameras run on batteries. Some are plug-in models designed for indoor or permanent outdoor use:

• Arlo Essential Indoor Camera – Plugs into a wall outlet.
• Arlo Wired Floodlight Camera – Requires direct wiring to a power source.

These models eliminate battery concerns entirely but sacrifice the flexibility of wireless placement. It’s a trade-off between convenience and maintenance.

How Long Do Arlo Rechargeable Batteries Last?

One of the biggest concerns with battery-powered cameras is how long they’ll last between charges. Nobody wants to climb a ladder every few days to swap batteries. So, let’s talk real-world performance.

Battery Life by Model (Based on Average Use)

Battery life depends on several factors: motion detection frequency, video quality, Wi-Fi signal strength, and environmental conditions. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Arlo Pro 4: 3–6 months per charge (with moderate activity)
• Arlo Essential Spotlight (Wireless): 6–12 months (due to lower video resolution and fewer features)
• Arlo Ultra 2: 3–4 months per battery (higher resolution and more features drain faster)
• Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight: 2–3 months (floodlight usage significantly reduces life)
• Arlo Go 2: 1–2 months (cellular data is a major drain)

For example, my Arlo Pro 4 in my backyard—facing a tree with squirrels and occasional foot traffic—lasted about 4 months on a single charge. But when I moved it to the front porch (higher traffic, more motion alerts), it dropped to 2.5 months. So placement matters!

What Affects Battery Life?

Several things can shorten your battery life:

• Motion sensitivity settings – Higher sensitivity = more recordings = more battery use.
• Video resolution – 4K and 2K use more power than 1080p.
• Night vision mode – Infrared LEDs draw more power in low light.
• Wi-Fi signal strength – Weak signals cause the camera to work harder to maintain connection.
• Extreme temperatures – Cold weather (< 32°F) can reduce battery efficiency by up to 30%.

Pro tip: If you’re in a cold climate, consider using Arlo’s solar panel accessory (more on that later) to keep your battery topped up without manual charging.

How to Maximize Battery Life

Want to stretch your charge? Try these simple tricks:

• Adjust motion zones – Only record areas that matter (e.g., driveway, not the tree).
• Lower video resolution – 1080p is often enough for most users.
• Use activity schedules – Turn off motion detection during hours you’re home.
• Install near a Wi-Fi extender – Stronger signal = less battery drain.
• Use the Arlo app’s battery health monitor – It shows usage trends and estimates time until recharge.

Charging Arlo Batteries: How It Works

Now that we know the batteries are rechargeable, let’s talk about the actual charging process. It’s not as simple as plugging in a phone, but it’s not rocket science either.

Charging Stations and Accessories

Most Arlo rechargeable batteries use a proprietary charging system. Here’s what you’ll typically get:

• Single Charging Station – Included with models like the Pro 4. It holds one battery and plugs into a wall outlet.
• Dual Charging Station – Comes with the Ultra 2 or available as an add-on. Charges two batteries at once—great if you have multiple cameras.
• USB Charging Cable – Some models (like the Essential Spotlight) can charge directly via USB-C when the camera is removed.

Charging time varies:

• Arlo Pro 4 battery: ~5 hours for a full charge
• Arlo Ultra 2 battery: ~6 hours
• Essential Spotlight (built-in): ~4 hours via USB-C

Can You Use Third-Party Chargers?

Technically, yes—but Arlo strongly advises against it. Their batteries use a specific voltage and communication protocol. Using a non-Arlo charger could:

• Damage the battery
• Void your warranty
• Cause overheating or safety issues

I once tried using a generic USB charger for my Pro 4 battery. It charged… but the battery life dropped by 20% after just one cycle. Not worth it. Stick to Arlo’s official charging stations or USB cables.

Solar Panels: A Game-Changer for Battery Life

Here’s a pro move: pair your Arlo camera with a solar panel. Arlo offers solar panels specifically designed for their cameras:

• Arlo Solar Panel (for Pro 4, Ultra 2, etc.) – Provides continuous trickle charging.
• Arlo Essential Solar Panel – For the Essential Spotlight and other compatible models.

I installed a solar panel on my backyard Arlo Pro 4, and after a month of sunny days, the battery never dropped below 80%. It’s not a full replacement for charging, but it drastically reduces how often you need to manually recharge—especially in sunny climates.

Note: Solar panels work best with 4+ hours of direct sunlight per day. In cloudy or shaded areas, results may vary.

Can You Replace or Upgrade Arlo Batteries?

What happens when your battery starts to lose capacity? Or if you want more power? Let’s talk about replacement and upgrade options.

Are Arlo Batteries User-Replaceable?

It depends on the model:

• Pro 4, Ultra 2, Pro 3 Floodlight – Yes, batteries are removable and replaceable. You can buy extras or replacements directly from Arlo or authorized retailers.
• Essential Spotlight (Wireless) – No. The battery is built-in and sealed. If it fails, you’ll need to contact Arlo support for a replacement unit.
• Arlo Go 2 – Uses a removable rechargeable pack, but it’s a separate purchase.

For removable batteries, Arlo sells spare packs. The Arlo Pro 4 battery costs around $30–$40, and the Ultra 2 battery is about $50. Not cheap, but cheaper than buying new cameras.

How to Replace a Battery

Replacing a removable Arlo battery is simple:

1. Remove the camera from its mount.
2. Slide open the battery compartment (usually on the back or side).
3. Pull out the old battery and insert the new one.
4. Reattach the camera to the mount.

I did this with my Pro 4 last winter when the battery wouldn’t hold a charge. Took less than 2 minutes. The app even detected the new battery and reset the charge cycle automatically.

Can You Upgrade to a Higher-Capacity Battery?

Unfortunately, no. Arlo doesn’t offer higher-capacity batteries for existing models. Each battery is model-specific and designed to fit only certain cameras. For example, you can’t put an Ultra 2 battery in a Pro 4—it won’t fit or communicate properly.

But here’s a workaround: buy a second battery and keep it charged. Use the dual charging station to maintain two fully charged batteries. When one dies, swap it out. It’s like having a backup generator for your camera.

Cost Comparison: Rechargeable vs. Disposable Batteries

Let’s talk money. Are rechargeable batteries worth the upfront cost? Let’s compare.

Upfront and Long-Term Costs

Here’s a simple cost breakdown over 3 years for a single outdoor camera:

Option	Upfront Cost	Ongoing Cost (3 Years)	Total Cost
Arlo Pro 4 (Rechargeable)	$199 (includes battery)	$0 (if charged manually) $79 (with solar panel)	$199–$278
Camera with Disposable Batteries (e.g., 4x AA)	$120 (camera only)	$360 (60 sets of batteries @ $6/set)	$480
Arlo Essential Spotlight (Built-in Battery)	$99	$0 (no battery swaps) Potential $99 replacement if battery fails	$99–$198

As you can see, rechargeable systems save you hundreds over time. Even with the cost of a solar panel, you’re still way ahead. Plus, you avoid the environmental impact of throwing away dozens of disposable batteries.

Hidden Costs to Consider

• Replacement batteries – If you lose or damage one, you’ll need to buy a new one.
• Solar panel – Not required, but highly recommended for outdoor cameras.
• Dual charging station – $49, but worth it if you have multiple cameras.

Bottom line: Rechargeable is the smarter long-term investment—both financially and environmentally.

Final Thoughts: Are Arlo Rechargeable Batteries Worth It?

So, do Arlo cameras come with rechargeable batteries? For the most part, yes—especially with their mid-to-high-end models. The Pro 4, Ultra 2, and Essential Spotlight all include rechargeable power solutions, and even the Go 2 can use one with a small add-on.

Are they perfect? Not quite. The built-in battery in the Essential Spotlight can’t be replaced, and spare batteries are pricey. Charging takes time, and solar panels are an extra cost. But when you weigh those cons against the convenience, long-term savings, and environmental benefits, the trade-offs are worth it.

From my experience, the freedom of a wireless, rechargeable camera is unmatched. No wires to trip over, no power outlets to find, no monthly battery runs to the store. With a little planning—like adjusting motion zones, using solar panels, or keeping spare batteries charged—you can enjoy reliable, year-round security without constant maintenance.

Whether you’re protecting your home, keeping an eye on your pets, or monitoring your vacation property, Arlo’s rechargeable system gives you the flexibility to do it—without the battery headache. And that, my friend, is peace of mind worth investing in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras come with rechargeable batteries?

Yes, most Arlo camera models, including the Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra, come with built-in or removable rechargeable batteries. These lithium-ion batteries are designed for long-term use and can be recharged using a compatible Arlo charging cable or solar panel.

How long do the rechargeable batteries in Arlo cameras last?

Arlo’s rechargeable batteries typically last between 3 to 6 months per charge, depending on usage, settings, and environmental factors. Frequent motion detection and high video quality settings may reduce battery life.

Can I use third-party rechargeable batteries with my Arlo camera?

Arlo does not recommend using third-party rechargeable batteries, as they may damage the camera or void the warranty. Always use Arlo-branded batteries or accessories for optimal performance and safety.

Are Arlo batteries removable or built-in?

Some Arlo models, like the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4, feature removable rechargeable batteries, while others, like the Arlo Essential, have built-in batteries. Check your model’s specifications to confirm.

How do I charge the rechargeable batteries in Arlo cameras?

You can charge Arlo’s rechargeable batteries using the included USB charging cable, a charging station (sold separately), or a compatible solar panel. Simply remove the battery or connect the cable directly to the camera.

Do Arlo cameras with rechargeable batteries work during power outages?

Yes, Arlo cameras with rechargeable batteries operate independently of external power sources, making them ideal for use during power outages. Just ensure the battery is sufficiently charged for uninterrupted surveillance.