Does an Arlo Wireless Security Camera Have Battery Backup

Yes, most Arlo wireless security cameras include built-in rechargeable battery backup, ensuring continuous operation during power outages. This feature keeps your surveillance active even when the main power fails, offering reliable home security with easy recharging and long-lasting performance.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras have built-in battery backup for uninterrupted power during outages.
• Rechargeable batteries last 3-6 months depending on usage and model.
• Low-battery alerts notify you via the Arlo app for timely recharging.
• Solar panels can extend battery life with continuous outdoor charging.
• Hardwired options eliminate battery dependency for 24/7 power reliability.
• Battery performance drops in extreme cold—consider placement carefully.

Understanding Arlo Wireless Security Cameras

Imagine this: You’re at home, enjoying a quiet evening, when suddenly the power goes out. The lights flicker off, your Wi-Fi router goes dark, and your home security system seems compromised. This is where the question arises: Does an Arlo wireless security camera have battery backup? If you’re considering Arlo for your home security, this is a critical detail. After all, what good is a security camera if it fails when you need it most?

Arlo Technologies has made a name for itself with sleek, wire-free, and easy-to-install security cameras. Their wireless models—like the Arlo Pro, Arlo Ultra, and Arlo Essential—are designed for convenience, flexibility, and 24/7 monitoring. But convenience doesn’t mean invincibility. Power outages, extreme weather, or even accidental disconnections can disrupt your surveillance. That’s why understanding how Arlo handles power and battery backup isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for peace of mind.

How Arlo Cameras Handle Power: Battery vs. Wired Options

Arlo offers a mix of battery-powered and wired security cameras. Knowing the difference is the first step in answering whether Arlo has battery backup.

Battery-Powered Arlo Cameras (The Wireless Advantage)

The core of Arlo’s appeal lies in its wireless, battery-operated models. These include:

• Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, and Pro 5
• Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2
• Arlo Essential (Indoor and Outdoor)

These cameras run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. You charge them via a magnetic charging cable (included), and once charged, they can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months, depending on usage, motion detection frequency, and environmental factors like temperature.

Real-life example: Sarah, a homeowner in Texas, installed Arlo Pro 3 cameras around her house. During a summer storm, her power went out for 10 hours. “I was nervous,” she said, “but the cameras kept recording. I could still see my backyard on the app. That’s when I realized—they’re truly wireless, and the battery was doing its job.”

Wired Arlo Cameras (For Continuous Power)

Arlo also offers wired options, such as:

• Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell
• Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera (can be hardwired)

These models plug into a power source—either a standard outlet or a doorbell transformer. They don’t rely on internal batteries for primary power. However, some wired models do include a small backup battery to maintain operation during brief outages (more on that later).

Hybrid Power: The Best of Both Worlds?

Some Arlo cameras support dual power options. For example, the Arlo Pro 5S can be used with a battery or plugged into a power source using an optional solar panel or AC adapter. This flexibility means you can choose battery power for installation ease or switch to continuous power for high-traffic areas.

Tip: If you’re concerned about power outages, consider a hybrid approach. Use battery-powered cameras for perimeter coverage and wired models for entry points like your front door or garage.

Does Arlo Have Battery Backup? The Truth About Outage Protection

Now, to the heart of the matter: Does an Arlo wireless security camera have battery backup? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it depends on the model and how you define “battery backup.”

Primary Power Source vs. Backup Power

Let’s clarify terms:

• Primary battery power: Cameras like the Arlo Pro 4 run on internal batteries. This isn’t “backup”—it’s their main power source.
• Backup battery: A secondary power source that kicks in when the primary power fails. Think of it like a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for your camera.

Most battery-powered Arlo cameras do not have a secondary backup battery. Their lithium-ion battery is their only power source. If that battery dies, the camera stops working—unless you have a way to recharge it during an outage.

Wired Cameras with Built-In Backup Batteries

Here’s where it gets interesting. Some wired Arlo cameras do include a small internal backup battery. For example:

• Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell: Includes a 1,000mAh battery that maintains operation for up to 30 minutes during a power outage. It’s not meant to last all night, but it gives you a buffer to respond.
• Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera (wired mode): When hardwired, it uses a backup battery to keep the camera and lights on for a short time if power fails.

This backup battery doesn’t replace the need for main power, but it prevents a complete blackout. It’s like a safety net—small, but crucial in emergencies.

No Backup Battery? Here’s What You Can Do

If your Arlo camera is battery-powered and doesn’t have a secondary backup, don’t panic. You’re not out of options:

• Keep spare batteries charged: Arlo sells extra batteries. Keep one or two fully charged and swap them during outages.
• Use a portable power bank: With a USB-C or magnetic adapter, you can connect a power bank to your camera. Just ensure it’s compatible and weatherproof.
• Install a solar panel: Arlo’s solar panels (sold separately) keep your battery charged year-round. Even during a power outage, as long as there’s sunlight, your camera stays on.

Pro tip: Label your spare batteries and charge them monthly. A dead spare is as useless as a dead main battery.

Maximizing Battery Life: Tips to Keep Your Arlo Running Longer

Whether you’re relying on battery power or using it as backup, maximizing battery life is key. Here’s how to get the most out of your Arlo camera’s battery.

Optimize Motion Detection Settings

Motion detection is the biggest battery drainer. More activity = more recordings = faster battery drain. To extend life:

• Adjust sensitivity to medium (not high) to avoid false alarms from wind, leaves, or shadows.
• Set activity zones to monitor only important areas (e.g., front porch, not the entire yard).
• Use smart notifications (Arlo Smart) to filter out non-human motion.

Example: Mark in Florida reduced his camera’s motion sensitivity and activity zones. His battery life jumped from 3 months to over 5 months—without missing a single delivery or visitor.

Manage Recording Quality and Frame Rate

Higher video quality (4K, HDR) and frame rates (15 fps vs. 7 fps) use more power. For battery-powered cameras, consider:

• Switch to 1080p instead of 4K if you don’t need ultra-high resolution.
• Lower the frame rate to 7–10 fps. It’s still smooth enough for most situations.
• Use night vision mode sparingly. IR LEDs drain batteries fast. Set it to activate only on motion.

Environmental Factors Matter

Temperature affects battery performance. Lithium-ion batteries lose capacity in extreme cold or heat. To protect your Arlo:

• Install cameras under eaves or awnings to shield from direct sun and snow.
• Avoid mounting in garages or sheds that get very hot in summer or cold in winter.
• In freezing climates, bring batteries inside to charge—they charge faster at room temperature.

Use the Arlo App to Monitor Battery Health

The Arlo app shows battery percentage, estimated life, and usage trends. Set up battery alerts so you’re notified when levels drop below 20%. This gives you time to charge or swap before the camera dies.

Bonus tip: If you have multiple cameras, charge them on a rotation schedule. Never charge all at once—you’ll lose coverage.

Power Outage Solutions: Beyond the Built-In Battery

So, what happens when the power goes out and your Arlo camera doesn’t have a built-in backup battery? You need a plan. Here are practical, real-world solutions to keep your security system running.

Portable Power Banks (The DIY Backup)

You can connect a USB-C or magnetic power bank to your Arlo camera. For example:

• Anker PowerCore 10,000mAh: Lasts 8–12 hours, depending on camera usage.
• Goal Zero Flip 30: Compact and rugged, great for outdoor use.

How to set it up:

1. Use a magnetic charging cable (included with Arlo Pro/Ultra models).
2. Connect the cable to the power bank.
3. Place the power bank in a weatherproof box or under an overhang.
4. Secure all connections to avoid disconnection during wind or rain.

Caution: Not all power banks work well with Arlo. Test yours at home before relying on it during an outage.

Solar Panels: The Long-Term Backup

Arlo’s official solar panels (available for Pro, Ultra, and Essential models) keep your battery charged continuously. Even during a power outage, as long as there’s sunlight, your camera stays on.

• Arlo Solar Panel: Provides 3–6 watts of power.
• Works best in sunny climates (5+ hours of direct sunlight daily).
• Install at a 30–45 degree angle facing south (in the Northern Hemisphere).

Tip: Clean the solar panel monthly with a soft cloth to remove dust and debris. Even a thin layer of dirt can reduce efficiency by 20%.

Home Backup Power: Whole-House or UPS Systems

If you’re serious about uninterrupted security, consider:

• Home generator: Keeps your Wi-Fi router, base station, and even wired Arlo cameras running.
• UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): A battery backup for your router and Arlo SmartHub. When power fails, the UPS powers these devices for 1–2 hours.

Pair a UPS with a solar-powered Arlo camera, and you’ve got near-24/7 coverage—even during extended outages.

Wi-Fi During Outages: Don’t Forget the Network

Here’s a critical point: Your Arlo camera needs Wi-Fi to send alerts and recordings. If your router loses power, your camera might still record, but you won’t see the footage until the network is back.

Solution? Use a UPS for your router or switch to a cellular backup plan (available with Arlo Secure subscription). This keeps your cameras connected even when the internet is down.

Comparing Arlo Models: Battery Backup Features at a Glance

Let’s cut through the confusion. Here’s a clear comparison of popular Arlo models and their power/backup features.

Arlo Model	Primary Power	Backup Battery?	Battery Life (Avg.)	Supports Solar?	Best For
Arlo Pro 5S	Battery or wired	No (main battery only)	4–6 months	Yes	Flexible, high-traffic areas
Arlo Ultra 2	Battery	No	3–6 months	Yes	4K quality, wide coverage
Arlo Essential (Outdoor)	Battery	No	3–4 months	Yes	Affordable, easy setup
Arlo Essential Wired Doorbell	Wired	Yes (30 min backup)	N/A	No	Front door, continuous power
Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight (wired mode)	Wired	Yes (short backup)	N/A	Yes (battery mode)	Driveways, high visibility
Arlo Go 2	Battery + cellular	No	2–3 months	Yes	Remote areas, no Wi-Fi

Key takeaway: If you want true battery backup (i.e., a secondary power source), stick with wired models that include a backup battery. For battery-powered models, plan for external backup via solar, power banks, or spare batteries.

Final Thoughts: Is Arlo Right for Your Backup Needs?

So, does an Arlo wireless security camera have battery backup? The short answer: It depends.

Most wireless Arlo cameras are designed to run on battery power—so they’re inherently resilient to power outages. But they don’t have a secondary backup battery. If the main battery dies, the camera stops working. On the other hand, some wired Arlo models include a small backup battery to keep them running during short outages.

The real strength of Arlo lies in its flexibility. You can:

• Use solar panels to keep batteries charged year-round.
• Swap in spare batteries during emergencies.
• Pair with a UPS to keep your network online.
• Choose wired models for continuous, outage-resistant coverage.

No system is perfect. Arlo isn’t magic—but with smart planning, it can be incredibly reliable. As one user put it: “My Arlo didn’t save me from a break-in, but it gave me the evidence I needed to catch the thief. And when the lights went out? The camera was still rolling.”

Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or business owner, understanding your camera’s power needs is just as important as its video quality. Choose the right Arlo model, plan for outages, and you’ll have a security system that works—rain or shine, day or night, power or no power.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an Arlo wireless security camera have battery backup?

Yes, most Arlo wireless cameras, such as the Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra, come with rechargeable battery backup, allowing them to function during power outages. This ensures continuous surveillance even when your home’s power supply is disrupted.

How long does the battery backup last on an Arlo camera?

The battery life varies by model but typically lasts between 3 to 6 months on a single charge, depending on usage and environmental conditions. Features like high activity or frequent live streaming may reduce this duration.

Can I use Arlo cameras during a power outage?

Absolutely. Arlo wireless security cameras with battery backup operate independently of your home’s power, ensuring uninterrupted monitoring during outages. Just ensure the battery is charged or swap in a spare for extended coverage.

Are Arlo batteries replaceable or rechargeable for backup power?

Arlo cameras use proprietary rechargeable batteries, which can be easily swapped or recharged via a USB cable or charging station. Spare batteries are available for purchase to extend backup runtime.

Does the Arlo Solar Panel help with battery backup?

Yes, the Arlo Solar Panel continuously charges the camera’s battery, providing a sustainable backup solution and reducing manual recharging. It’s ideal for maintaining uninterrupted power in sunny locations.

What happens if the Arlo camera battery runs out during an outage?

If the battery depletes, the camera will shut down until power is restored or the battery is recharged. To avoid gaps, use spare batteries or pair with a solar panel for automatic recharging.