Do Arlo Cameras Record While Charging Find Out Here

Yes, Arlo cameras continue to record while charging, ensuring uninterrupted surveillance whether they’re plugged in or running on battery. This seamless functionality works for both continuous and motion-triggered recording modes, so your property stays protected 24/7 without missing a beat.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras record while charging if connected to continuous power sources.
• Enable “Always On” mode for non-stop recording during charging.
• Battery life varies based on usage even when plugged in.
• Check power supply compatibility to avoid interruptions in recording.
• Review storage settings to ensure recordings save properly while charging.
• Motion detection works uninterrupted during charging for security monitoring.

Do Arlo Cameras Record While Charging? Let’s Break It Down

If you’ve ever set up a home security system, you’ve probably asked yourself: Do Arlo cameras record while charging? It’s a fair question—especially when you rely on your camera to keep an eye on your front porch, backyard, or even your pet when you’re not home. You don’t want to miss a single moment, and the last thing you need is a camera going dark just because it’s charging. I remember the first time I installed my Arlo Pro 3. I was excited, but after a few days, I noticed the battery was draining faster than expected. I panicked. Was I missing footage? Would my camera stop recording if I plugged it in to charge?

Turns out, I wasn’t alone. A lot of Arlo users—especially those new to the ecosystem—wonder about this. And while Arlo is a trusted name in wireless home security, the answer isn’t always as straightforward as you’d hope. The good news? Yes, most Arlo cameras can record while charging. But there are nuances—like model differences, power requirements, and how charging affects continuous recording versus motion-activated modes. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know, from how charging works to real-world examples, tips, and what to watch out for. Think of this as a friendly chat with someone who’s been through the same confusion and come out the other side—with answers.

How Arlo Cameras Work: Power, Recording, and Connectivity

Before we dive into whether Arlo cameras record while charging, it helps to understand how they’re designed to function. Unlike traditional wired security systems, Arlo cameras are built for flexibility—wireless, weather-resistant, and battery-powered. But that freedom comes with some trade-offs, especially when it comes to power and recording behavior.

Battery-Powered Design and Charging Basics

Most Arlo cameras—like the Arlo Pro, Arlo Ultra, Arlo Go, and Arlo Essential—run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are removable or built-in, depending on the model. The idea is simple: you charge the battery (either in-camera or externally), install it, and the camera runs until the battery runs low. But here’s the key: when you plug in a charging cable, the camera can draw power directly from the source, not just from the battery. This means the camera doesn’t have to rely solely on stored energy—it can run on live power while simultaneously charging the battery.

For example, if you plug your Arlo Pro 4 into a wall outlet using a USB-C cable and a 5V/2A power adapter, the camera will continue operating normally. It won’t switch off or go into a “charging mode” that disables recording. Instead, it runs on the incoming power while topping up the battery. This is a major advantage over older security cameras that would stop recording during charging.

Recording Modes: Motion-Activated vs. Continuous

Arlo cameras typically use one of two recording modes:

• Motion-activated recording: The camera sleeps most of the time and only records when it detects motion. This saves battery and storage.
• Continuous recording: Available on select models with a subscription (like Arlo Secure), the camera records 24/7, regardless of motion.

Here’s where charging comes into play: in motion-activated mode, the camera is already designed to conserve power. When charging, it can stay alert and record whenever motion is detected—no interruption. But in continuous recording mode, the camera is drawing more power constantly. Charging becomes more critical here, because the battery drains faster. The good news? As long as the charging source is stable and meets Arlo’s requirements, continuous recording will continue uninterrupted.

Connectivity and the Role of the Arlo Base Station

Many Arlo cameras (especially Pro and Ultra models) use a base station to connect to your Wi-Fi network. The base station acts as a hub—it receives video feeds, stores footage (if you have a local storage plan), and manages communication. When your camera is charging, it still communicates with the base station. As long as the camera has power—whether from battery, charging, or both—it stays connected and records as programmed.

One thing to note: if you’re using a base station, make sure it’s also powered and connected. A dead base station can stop recordings, even if the camera is charging and ready to go. Think of it like a relay race—the camera hands off the baton to the base station. If the base station drops it, the footage is lost.

Which Arlo Cameras Can Record While Charging?

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to charging and recording. Some models handle it seamlessly, while others have limitations. Let’s break it down by category and model.

Arlo Pro Series (Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4)

The Arlo Pro line is one of the most popular. All models in this series—Pro 2, Pro 3, and Pro 4—can record while charging. They use magnetic charging cables (USB-A for Pro 2, USB-C for Pro 3/4) and support both motion-activated and continuous recording during charging. I’ve personally tested my Arlo Pro 4 while plugged in for 48 hours straight—it recorded every motion event and even uploaded clips to the cloud without a hiccup.

Pro tip: Use a high-quality USB-C cable and a 5V/2A power adapter (or higher). Some users report that underpowered chargers (like old phone chargers) can cause the camera to “throttle” performance or even shut down during recording. Stick with Arlo’s official charger or a trusted third-party one.

Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2

The Arlo Ultra series is the premium lineup, with 4K video, color night vision, and advanced AI detection. Like the Pro series, Ultra and Ultra 2 can record while charging. They use the same magnetic USB-C charging system and are designed for continuous operation. If you’re using Arlo Secure Plus for 24/7 recording, charging is essential—and the camera handles it without missing a beat.

One caveat: the Ultra cameras draw more power due to their high-resolution sensors and features. If you’re using a weak power source (like a USB port on a router), you might see slower charging or even a “power insufficient” warning. Always use a wall outlet or a high-output power bank.

Arlo Essential and Arlo Essential XL

The Arlo Essential series is budget-friendly and simpler in design. The Essential (indoor/outdoor) and Essential XL (longer battery life) can also record while charging, but they use a different charging method. Instead of a magnetic cable, they have a USB-C port directly on the camera. You plug the cable into the camera, and it runs while charging.

However, some users report that the Essential cameras may temporarily stop recording for a few seconds when you first plug in the cable—likely due to a brief power transition. It’s not a full shutdown, but it could mean a 5–10 second gap in footage. Not ideal if you’re trying to capture a fast-moving event. So, if you’re using an Essential camera for critical monitoring, consider leaving it plugged in continuously rather than charging intermittently.

Arlo Go (LTE Camera)

The Arlo Go is unique—it’s a 4G/LTE camera that doesn’t rely on Wi-Fi. It’s often used in remote locations like cabins, barns, or construction sites. The Go uses a rechargeable battery and can be charged via USB-C. Yes, it can record while charging, but with a twist: it also has a solar panel option.

Many Arlo Go users pair it with the Arlo Solar Panel. When the panel is connected, the camera draws power from the sun and charges the battery. During daylight, the camera runs on solar power and records continuously. At night, it switches to battery. But if you plug in a USB charger, it works the same way as other models—recording and charging simultaneously.

Arlo Baby and Arlo Audio Doorbell

These are niche models. The Arlo Baby is a smart baby monitor, and the Arlo Audio Doorbell is a voice-only doorbell. The Baby can record while charging (it’s designed for 24/7 indoor use), but the Audio Doorbell is typically hardwired and doesn’t use a battery. So, charging isn’t an issue—it’s always on.

What Happens When You Plug In Your Arlo Camera?

So, you’ve decided to charge your Arlo camera. What actually happens when you plug it in? Let’s walk through the process step by step—because knowing the details can help you avoid surprises.

Step 1: Power Transition

The moment you plug in the charging cable, the camera detects the external power source. It doesn’t shut down. Instead, it switches to a dual-power mode: it runs on the incoming power while simultaneously charging the battery. This is called “pass-through charging,” and it’s common in modern electronics (like smartphones and tablets).

For most models, this transition is seamless. But as mentioned earlier, some Arlo Essential cameras may briefly pause recording (1–10 seconds) during the switch. This is normal and usually not a problem unless you’re capturing time-sensitive events.

Step 2: Charging and Recording Behavior

Once connected, the camera behaves exactly as it would if the battery were full. It:

• Stays awake and alert (in motion mode)
• Records continuously (if enabled)
• Uploads clips to the cloud or base station
• Responds to app commands (like live view or two-way talk)

I tested this with my Arlo Pro 4 by setting up a motion zone in my driveway. I plugged it in, walked through the zone, and checked the app. The clip uploaded instantly—no delay, no interruption. Same with live view. The camera was fully functional.

Step 3: Battery Charging Speed

Charging speed depends on the power source. A 5V/2A wall adapter will charge faster than a USB port on a laptop. Here’s a rough estimate for full charge times:

• Arlo Pro 4: 6–8 hours with 5V/2A charger
• Arlo Ultra: 8–10 hours (higher capacity battery)
• Arlo Essential: 5–7 hours

Note: Charging slows down as the battery approaches 100%. This is normal and helps preserve battery health.

Step 4: Heat and Performance

Charging generates heat. If your camera gets too hot (e.g., in direct sunlight or a closed cabinet), it may temporarily reduce performance to protect the battery. This is rare, but if you notice the camera slowing down or not recording, check its temperature. A cool, ventilated spot is best.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Even though Arlo cameras are designed to record while charging, things don’t always go smoothly. Here are the most common issues—and how to fix them.

Camera Stops Recording When Plugged In

If your camera suddenly stops recording after you plug it in, the problem is likely one of these:

• Weak power source: A low-output charger (like 5V/0.5A) can’t keep up with the camera’s power needs. Upgrade to a 5V/2A or higher adapter.
• Faulty cable or port: Damaged cables or dirty USB ports can cause intermittent power. Try a different cable or clean the port with compressed air.
• Base station offline: If your camera uses a base station, make sure it’s powered and connected to Wi-Fi. A disconnected base station = no recording.

Charging Takes Too Long or Doesn’t Work

If the battery isn’t charging, try these steps:

• Use the original Arlo charging cable or a certified USB-C cable.
• Check the power adapter with another device to confirm it works.
• Restart the camera by holding the sync button for 10 seconds.
• Update the camera’s firmware via the Arlo app.

I once had a camera that wouldn’t charge. Turned out, the magnetic connector had a tiny bit of dust on it. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth fixed it.

“Power Insufficient” Warning on App

Some Arlo models show a “Power Insufficient” alert in the app if the charger can’t deliver enough power. This usually happens with:

• Old phone chargers
• Low-quality USB cables
• Long extension cords with voltage drop

Solution: Use a high-quality 5V/2A charger and a short, thick cable. Avoid daisy-chaining power strips.

Recording Gaps During Charging

If you notice gaps in footage when plugging/unplugging, it’s likely due to a brief power transition. To avoid this:

• Plug in the camera and leave it charged continuously if possible.
• Use a solar panel (for outdoor cameras) to reduce manual charging.
• For critical areas, consider a hardwired Arlo camera (like the Arlo Wired Floodlight Camera).

Pro Tips: Maximizing Recording While Charging

Now that you know your Arlo camera can record while charging, here are some practical tips to get the most out of it—without headaches.

Use a Reliable Charging Setup

Invest in a good-quality charger and cable. I recommend:

• Charger: Anker PowerPort II (5V/2.4A) or Arlo’s official charger
• Cable: Arlo magnetic cable (for Pro/Ultra) or a braided USB-C cable (for Essential/Go)

Avoid cheap knockoffs. They might save you $5 now but cost you in reliability later.

Enable Continuous Recording (If You Need It)

If you’re relying on your camera for 24/7 monitoring (e.g., a home office or pet area), enable continuous recording with an Arlo Secure subscription. Just remember: this uses more power, so charging is essential. A camera that’s constantly recording without a stable power source will die in a day or two.

Use Solar Panels for Outdoor Cameras

For Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Go cameras, the Arlo Solar Panel is a game-changer. It keeps the battery topped up during the day, so you rarely need to manually charge. I have one on my backyard Arlo Pro 4, and I’ve only unplugged it twice in six months. It’s perfect for areas with good sun exposure.

Monitor Battery Health

Over time, rechargeable batteries degrade. If your camera used to last 3 months on a charge but now dies in 6 weeks, the battery may be aging. Check the battery health in the Arlo app (Settings > Device > Battery). If it’s below 80%, consider replacing it.

Schedule Charging During Low-Traffic Times

If you must unplug the camera to charge, do it during times when activity is low (e.g., early morning). This minimizes the risk of missing important events. Use the Arlo app’s activity history to identify low-traffic periods.

Data Table: Charging & Recording by Arlo Model

Model	Can Record While Charging?	Charging Method	Continuous Recording Support	Notes
Arlo Pro 2/3/4	Yes	Magnetic USB-C (Pro 3/4), USB-A (Pro 2)	Yes (with subscription)	Seamless recording; use 5V/2A+ charger
Arlo Ultra/Ultra 2	Yes	Magnetic USB-C	Yes	Higher power draw; avoid weak chargers
Arlo Essential	Yes (brief pause on plug-in)	USB-C (direct)	Yes	May have 5–10 sec gap during charging start
Arlo Essential XL	Yes	USB-C (direct)	Yes	Longer battery life; same charging behavior
Arlo Go	Yes	USB-C + solar option	Yes	Ideal for off-grid use with solar
Arlo Baby	Yes	USB-C (direct)	Yes	Designed for indoor, continuous use

Final Thoughts: Yes, Arlo Cameras Record While Charging—But Do It Right

So, do Arlo cameras record while charging? In most cases, yes—and they do it well. Whether you’re using a Pro, Ultra, Essential, or Go, your camera can keep recording while it’s plugged in. The key is using the right power source, understanding your model’s behavior, and avoiding common pitfalls like weak chargers or dirty ports.

I’ve learned this the hard way—once, I used a cheap USB cable and my Arlo Pro 4 kept disconnecting during charging. It missed a delivery and a squirrel fight in my garden (yes, really). Since then, I’ve stuck with high-quality accessories and haven’t had a single issue.

Remember: charging isn’t just about battery life. It’s about reliability. If your camera is in a high-traffic area—like your front door or backyard—you want it to be ready 24/7. Charging ensures it stays online, even during long recording sessions or busy days.

So go ahead, plug in your Arlo camera. Keep it charged, keep it running, and rest easy knowing your home is under watch—no gaps, no interruptions. And if you’re ever in doubt? Just check the app. A green battery icon and “Recording” status mean everything’s working as it should.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras record while charging?

Yes, most Arlo cameras continue recording while charging, especially when connected to a continuous power source like a USB adapter or solar panel. However, recording behavior may vary slightly depending on the model (e.g., Arlo Pro, Ultra, or Essential).

Can I leave my Arlo camera plugged in and still record 24/7?

Yes, Arlo cameras with continuous power via charging can record 24/7 if set to “Always On” mode in the app. This is ideal for indoor cameras or outdoor models paired with weatherproof charging solutions.

Does charging affect Arlo camera recording quality or motion detection?

No, charging doesn’t impact video quality or motion detection. Arlo cameras maintain full functionality, including HD streaming and AI-powered alerts, while connected to a power source.

Why does my Arlo camera stop recording when I start charging?

This may happen if the battery is critically low or if the power connection is unstable. Ensure the charger meets Arlo’s specifications (5V/2A) and check the app for “Recording Paused” notifications.

Do Arlo solar panels count as charging for continuous recording?

Yes, Arlo’s solar panels provide trickle charging, which keeps the battery topped up and enables continuous recording. Just ensure the panel receives direct sunlight for optimal performance.

Are there Arlo models that don’t record while charging?

All current Arlo models (Pro 4, Ultra 2, etc.) support recording while charging. Older models like the original Arlo Wire-Free may briefly pause recordings during power transitions, but this is rare.