Do Arlo Cameras Have Rechargeable Batteries Find Out Here

Yes, most Arlo cameras use rechargeable batteries, making them a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice for home security. Models like the Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra feature removable, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that offer long life and easy maintenance—just swap, charge, and reinstall for continuous protection.

Key Takeaways

• Most Arlo cameras use rechargeable batteries for cost-effective, long-term use.
• Check model specs—some Arlo devices require disposable batteries.
• Rechargeable batteries typically last 3–6 months per charge, depending on usage.
• Use only Arlo-approved batteries to avoid damage or voiding warranties.
• Solar panels available for continuous charging and eco-friendly operation.
• Quick-swap battery design lets you replace batteries without powering down.
• Monitor battery health via the Arlo app for timely recharging.

Do Arlo Cameras Use Rechargeable Batteries? Let’s Find Out

If you’ve ever set up a home security system, you know the drill. You unbox the camera, place it in your ideal spot, and then—bam—you realize you need to think about power. Are the batteries included? Do they last long? And, most importantly, are they rechargeable? If you’ve been wondering, “Do Arlo cameras have rechargeable batteries?”, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions people ask before investing in an Arlo security system. After all, nobody wants to keep buying disposable batteries every few weeks. I’ve been there—staring at a camera blinking low-battery warnings while scrambling to find replacements in the middle of the night. Not fun.

Arlo, a popular name in smart home security, offers a range of cameras designed for flexibility, ease of use, and reliability. But power is a big part of that equation. Whether you’re using Arlo for indoor monitoring, outdoor surveillance, or even as a doorbell camera, understanding how it gets its juice is essential. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Arlo camera batteries—specifically, whether they’re rechargeable, how long they last, what types are used, and how to get the most out of them. Think of this as a friendly chat over coffee, where I share real-life insights, personal tips, and honest observations so you can make an informed decision without the guesswork.

Understanding Arlo Camera Power Options

When it comes to power, Arlo doesn’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. The brand offers several camera models, and each has slightly different power needs. This means the answer to “Do Arlo cameras have rechargeable batteries?” isn’t a simple yes or no. Instead, it depends on which model you’re using. Let’s break it down so you can match the right power solution to your needs.

Wireless vs. Wired Arlo Cameras

First, it helps to know that Arlo cameras fall into two main categories: wireless and wired. Wireless models are designed for easy installation and placement—no drilling, no cords, no mess. But that convenience comes with a trade-off: they rely on batteries. Wired models, on the other hand, connect directly to a power source, usually via a power adapter or PoE (Power over Ethernet), which means no battery changes at all.

For example, the Arlo Pro 5S and Arlo Ultra 2 are battery-powered and designed for outdoor or flexible indoor use. These models are perfect if you want to place a camera under the eaves, near a back gate, or in a spot without an outlet. But since they’re wireless, they depend on batteries—and that’s where rechargeability becomes a key concern.

Meanwhile, the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera and Arlo Essential Wired Floodlight Camera draw power from a wall outlet. No batteries needed. So if you’re someone who hates the idea of swapping batteries, these might be better fits. But they do limit placement options. You’ll need a nearby outlet and a clear path for the power cable.

Hybrid Power Solutions

Here’s where things get interesting: some Arlo cameras offer hybrid power options. Take the Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera. It comes with a rechargeable battery and can be connected to a solar panel (sold separately). This means you can use the battery for initial setup, then keep it topped up with solar power—effectively making it a “set it and forget it” system. I tried this in my backyard, and after a few sunny days, the battery stayed at 90% for weeks. It felt like magic.

Another option is the Arlo Pro 5S with Power Adapter. You can use the rechargeable battery and plug it into a power outlet when needed. This is great for areas where you want the flexibility of battery use but the reliability of constant power. I use this setup in my garage—battery for portability, plug-in for long-term monitoring. It’s the best of both worlds.

Tip: Always check the product description before buying. Some bundles include the solar panel or power adapter; others don’t. If you’re planning on long-term outdoor use, consider getting the solar panel. It’s a small investment that can save you a lot of battery hassle down the road.

Which Arlo Cameras Have Rechargeable Batteries?

Now, let’s get to the heart of the question: which Arlo cameras actually come with rechargeable batteries? The good news is that most of Arlo’s premium wireless models do. But not all batteries are created equal, and some models use different battery types. Let’s go through the major ones.

Arlo Pro Series (Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S)

The Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, and Pro 5S all use the same type of rechargeable lithium-ion battery. These are proprietary batteries designed specifically for Arlo cameras. They’re not AA or AAA batteries you can buy at the store. Instead, you get one (or two, depending on the bundle) included with the camera, and you charge them using the Arlo charging dock—a small, magnetic base that connects via USB.

I’ve used the Pro 4 for over a year, and the battery life has been solid. On average, I get about 3–4 months per charge, depending on how much activity the camera sees. If you live in a busy neighborhood or have kids playing outside, motion detection triggers more often, which drains the battery faster. But with a second battery on hand (I bought a spare), I can swap them out and keep the camera running 24/7.

Pro Tip: Keep a spare battery charged and ready. When the camera alerts you that the battery is low, swap it out, charge the old one, and you’re back in business. It takes about 3 hours to fully charge using the dock.

Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2

The Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2 use a larger, higher-capacity rechargeable battery. These models are designed for 4K video, color night vision, and advanced AI features, so they need more power. The battery lasts longer than the Pro series—around 6 months under normal use.

One thing I love about the Ultra 2 is that it supports dual charging. You can charge the battery in the camera using a USB-C cable, or remove it and charge it in the dock. That’s helpful if you don’t want to take the camera down every time it needs charging. I’ve used the USB-C method while the camera was still mounted on the wall. Just plug it in for a few hours, and it’s good to go.

Arlo Essential Series (Battery Models)

The Arlo Essential Wireless Camera also uses a rechargeable battery, but it’s a different type—smaller and less powerful than the Pro or Ultra batteries. Battery life is around 2–3 months. It’s a budget-friendly option, but you’ll need to charge it more often. I used one in my front yard, and I found myself charging it every 6 weeks during the summer when motion events were frequent.

One downside: the Essential battery doesn’t have a charging dock. You have to remove it and plug it into a USB port directly. It’s a bit more inconvenient, but it works. Just be careful not to lose the battery cover—it’s tiny and easy to misplace.

Arlo Go and Arlo Go 2

These are cellular-enabled cameras, meaning they use a SIM card to connect to a mobile network. They run on a rechargeable lithium-polymer battery and are often used in remote locations without Wi-Fi. Battery life varies widely based on network signal and usage, but you can expect 1–3 months per charge. They’re not for everyday home use, but they’re great for cabins, construction sites, or vacation homes.

How Long Do Arlo Rechargeable Batteries Last?

One of the biggest concerns with rechargeable batteries is lifespan—not just how long they last on a single charge, but how many charge cycles they can handle before degrading. After all, nobody wants a camera that stops working after a year because the battery won’t hold a charge anymore.

Battery Life Per Charge

Battery life depends on several factors:

• Camera model (Ultra lasts longer than Essential)
• Motion activity (more events = more battery drain)
• Video quality settings (4K uses more power than 1080p)
• Temperature (cold weather can reduce battery efficiency)
• Wi-Fi signal strength (weak signal forces the camera to work harder)

Based on my experience and Arlo’s official data, here’s a general breakdown:

Camera Model	Average Battery Life (Normal Use)	Max Battery Life (Low Activity)	Charging Time
Arlo Pro 4	3–4 months	6 months	3 hours
Arlo Pro 5S	3–4 months	5 months	3 hours
Arlo Ultra 2	5–6 months	8 months	3.5 hours
Arlo Essential Wireless	2–3 months	4 months	2.5 hours
Arlo Go 2	1–3 months	4 months	3 hours

Note: These are estimates. Your mileage may vary. I’ve found that turning off features like color night vision or reducing motion detection sensitivity can extend battery life by 20–30%.

Battery Lifespan Over Time

Arlo’s rechargeable batteries are designed to last through hundreds of charge cycles. Most users report no significant drop in capacity for at least 18–24 months. After that, you might notice the battery doesn’t last as long—maybe 20% less. But it’s still functional.

Arlo doesn’t publish an exact cycle count, but lithium-ion batteries typically handle 300–500 full charge cycles before degrading. That means if you charge your battery every 3 months, it should last 7–12 years. In reality, most people upgrade their cameras before the battery fails.

Tip: Avoid fully discharging the battery regularly. Lithium-ion batteries prefer partial charges (e.g., 20% to 80%). This helps prolong their lifespan. I try to swap my batteries around 30% instead of waiting for the low-battery alert.

Charging Your Arlo Rechargeable Batteries: Tips and Tricks

Charging an Arlo battery might seem straightforward, but there are a few things you can do to make the process smoother, faster, and more efficient. I’ve learned these the hard way—like the time I lost my charging dock and had to wait three days for a replacement.

Using the Arlo Charging Dock

The charging dock is included with most Pro and Ultra cameras. It’s magnetic, so the battery snaps on easily. Just connect the dock to a USB power source (like a wall adapter, power bank, or computer), and it starts charging. A small LED light turns green when it’s done.

I keep my dock plugged into a USB wall outlet in the kitchen. When I swap out a battery, I just grab a fresh one and drop the old one on the dock. It’s simple, and it keeps everything organized.

Pro Tip: Buy an extra charging dock. They’re not expensive, and having two means you can charge two batteries at once. I keep one at home and one at my parents’ house so I can always charge a spare when visiting.

Alternative Charging Methods

If you don’t have the dock, you can charge the battery directly in the camera (on Ultra 2 and newer models) using a USB-C cable. This is handy if you’re traveling or if the camera is mounted in a hard-to-reach spot.

For older models, you’ll need to remove the battery and charge it via the dock. It’s not ideal, but it works. Just make sure you have a clean, dry place to store the battery while it’s charging.

Solar Power: The Game Changer

If you’re using a battery-powered Arlo camera outdoors, consider the Arlo Solar Panel. It’s a small, weatherproof panel that connects to your camera via a cable. It keeps the battery charged using sunlight—no more manual charging.

I installed one on my Pro 4, and it’s been amazing. Even on cloudy days, it adds enough juice to keep the battery above 80%. It’s not 100% self-sufficient, but it cuts my charging frequency by about 70%. Plus, it’s eco-friendly.

Note: The solar panel only works with certain Arlo models (Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S, Ultra, Ultra 2). Check compatibility before buying.

What If You Prefer Non-Rechargeable Batteries?

You might be thinking: “I don’t want to deal with charging. Can I just use regular batteries?” The short answer is: no. Arlo’s wireless cameras are designed specifically for their proprietary rechargeable batteries. You can’t pop in a set of AA batteries and expect it to work.

Why Arlo Uses Proprietary Batteries

Arlo’s batteries are lithium-ion, which offer high energy density, long life, and fast charging. Standard alkaline batteries (like Duracell or Energizer) aren’t compatible because they have different voltage, size, and power delivery characteristics. Even if you found a battery that fits, the camera wouldn’t recognize it or might not function properly.

Plus, Arlo’s battery management system monitors charge levels, temperature, and health. It communicates with the camera to provide accurate battery percentage and alerts. Off-brand or third-party batteries might not work with this system, leading to inaccurate readings or even damage.

Third-Party Rechargeable Options (Use With Caution)

Some companies sell third-party Arlo-compatible batteries. They’re cheaper than Arlo’s official batteries, but quality varies. I tried a set once, and while they fit and charged, the battery life was only about 2 months—half of what I get with the original. One even stopped holding a charge after 4 months.

My advice? Stick with Arlo’s official batteries if you want reliability. But if you’re on a tight budget, third-party options can work in a pinch. Just don’t expect the same performance or longevity.

Final Thoughts: Are Rechargeable Batteries Worth It?

So, do Arlo cameras have rechargeable batteries? Yes—and for most users, that’s a huge advantage. The convenience of not buying disposable batteries, the ability to swap and charge spares, and the option to use solar power make Arlo’s system one of the most user-friendly in the smart home market.

Of course, it’s not perfect. You do have to remember to charge the batteries, and extreme temperatures can affect performance. But with a few smart habits—like keeping a spare battery, using the solar panel, and adjusting motion sensitivity—you can minimize downtime and maximize peace of mind.

Ultimately, Arlo’s rechargeable batteries strike a great balance between performance, convenience, and sustainability. They’re not just a power source—they’re part of a flexible, modern security system that adapts to your lifestyle. Whether you’re monitoring your front door, watching over your backyard, or checking in on a vacation home, knowing your camera won’t die on you makes all the difference.

So if you’ve been on the fence about Arlo, don’t let battery concerns hold you back. With a little planning, those rechargeable batteries can keep your home protected—without the hassle of constant replacements. And really, isn’t that what smart security is all about?

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras have rechargeable batteries?

Yes, most Arlo camera models, including the Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Essential series, come with built-in or removable rechargeable batteries. These batteries are designed for easy charging via USB or a charging station (sold separately).

Can I replace the batteries in my Arlo camera?

For Arlo Pro and Essential models, the rechargeable batteries are removable and replaceable. However, in newer models like the Arlo Ultra 2, the battery is built-in but still rechargeable and replaceable by Arlo support if needed.

How long do the rechargeable batteries in Arlo cameras last?

Arlo rechargeable batteries typically last 3–6 months on a single charge, depending on usage, motion activity, and environmental factors. Frequent recordings or live streaming may require more frequent charging.

Do all Arlo cameras use the same rechargeable battery?

No, Arlo uses different battery types across models. For example, the Arlo Pro 3 uses a CR123A battery, while the Essential series uses a proprietary rechargeable battery. Always check your camera’s specifications before purchasing replacements.

Are Arlo cameras with rechargeable batteries weatherproof?

Yes, Arlo cameras with rechargeable batteries are designed to be weather-resistant (IP65 or higher), making them suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Just ensure the battery compartment is properly sealed to maintain weatherproofing.

Where can I buy replacement rechargeable batteries for Arlo cameras?

Replacement batteries for Arlo cameras with rechargeable options are available on Arlo’s official website, Amazon, and electronics retailers. Ensure compatibility with your specific Arlo model before purchasing.