Does Arlo Add On Camera Come With Batteries Find Out Here

Yes, Arlo add-on cameras come with batteries included, so you can start using your new camera right out of the box without any extra purchases. Battery life varies by model, but most Arlo add-ons feature long-lasting rechargeable or replaceable batteries for hassle-free setup and reliable performance.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo add-on cameras include batteries for immediate setup and use.
• Always check packaging to confirm battery inclusion before purchasing.
• Rechargeable batteries save costs—opt for Arlo’s eco-friendly options.
• Low-battery alerts notify you via the Arlo app for timely recharging.
• Extra batteries ensure backup—buy spares to avoid downtime.
• Battery life varies by model—review specs for performance expectations.

Does Arlo Add On Camera Come With Batteries? Let’s Settle This Once and For All

You’ve just unboxed your shiny new Arlo add-on camera, heart racing with excitement, ready to secure your home or office. You’ve already got the base station, maybe even a few cameras, and now you’re adding another to the mix. But as you tear open the packaging, a nagging thought creeps in: “Wait… does this come with batteries?” It’s a question that’s haunted countless Arlo owners, and you’re not alone in wondering.

Imagine this: you’ve got the perfect spot picked out—your front porch, backyard gate, or that tricky blind spot in the hallway. You’ve got the mount, the tools, and the Wi-Fi signal is strong. But when you reach for the batteries to power up the camera… nothing. Cue the frustration. You’re not just installing a camera—you’re installing peace of mind. And peace of mind shouldn’t come with a side of “Did I forget to buy batteries?” Whether you’re expanding your existing Arlo system or just trying to avoid a last-minute run to the store, knowing what’s included—and what’s not—can save you time, money, and a few headaches.

What’s Actually in the Box? Unpacking the Arlo Add-On Camera

Let’s start with the basics: what do you *actually* get when you buy an Arlo add-on camera? The packaging might look sleek, but the contents can vary depending on the model and where you buy it. Here’s the lowdown.

Standard Inclusions: What You Can Expect

Most Arlo add-on cameras come with the following essentials:

• The camera unit itself (obviously!)
• Mounting hardware (screws, wall anchors, and a mounting bracket)
• A quick start guide (usually with QR codes for setup)
• A small tool for adjusting the camera angle (often a hex key or screwdriver)

Some kits—especially those sold in retail stores or bundled with promotions—might also include:

• A trial subscription to Arlo Secure (cloud storage and smart alerts)
• Extra mounting options (like a magnetic base or flexible arm)
• Weatherproofing accessories (for outdoor models)

But here’s the kicker: batteries are rarely included in the box. This is a common point of confusion, especially since many people assume that a “wire-free” camera would come ready to go. After all, if it’s designed to run on batteries, why wouldn’t they be included?

Why Batteries Aren’t Included: The Arlo Business Model

Arlo’s decision to exclude batteries is both practical and strategic. First, batteries degrade over time—even when unused. If Arlo shipped every camera with fresh batteries, they’d have to account for shelf life, storage conditions, and regional regulations. Second, not all users use the same type of battery. Some prefer standard AA lithiums, others go for rechargeable NiMH, and a growing number use Arlo’s own Arlo Rechargeable Battery Pack (sold separately).

Think of it like buying a remote control: it doesn’t come with batteries, because you might already have them at home. Arlo operates the same way. They want you to choose the battery solution that fits your lifestyle—whether that’s disposables, rechargeables, or their proprietary system.

Pro tip: If you’re buying from Arlo’s official website, check the product page carefully. Some listings include a note like “Batteries not included” in the fine print. Third-party retailers (like Amazon or Best Buy) sometimes bundle batteries, but it’s not guaranteed.

Which Arlo Models Use Batteries—And Which Don’t?

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal. Some are designed for continuous power, others for true wire-free operation. Here’s a breakdown of which models rely on batteries and which don’t.

Wire-Free Cameras: The Battery-Dependent Lineup

These models are designed to be completely free of wires, making them ideal for quick installation and flexible placement. They all require batteries:

• Arlo Ultra 2 (and the original Ultra): Uses 2x CR123A batteries. These are high-drain lithium cells, not your everyday AA. They last 3–6 months with typical use.
• Arlo Pro 5S / Pro 4 / Pro 3: Also uses 2x CR123A batteries. The Pro series is known for its weather resistance and 2K video quality.
• Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera: Uses 2x AA batteries (lithium recommended). A budget-friendly option with solid performance.
• Arlo Go 2: Uses a rechargeable internal battery (not user-replaceable) and can be charged via USB or solar panel.

Note: The Arlo Go 2 is a bit of an outlier—it has a built-in battery, so you don’t buy external cells. But you still need to charge it regularly, which is a form of “battery management.”

Wired and Solar-Powered Options: No Batteries Needed

If you’re not a fan of battery swaps, consider these alternatives:

• Arlo Wired Floodlight Camera: Plugs into a standard outdoor outlet. No batteries required.
• Arlo Video Doorbell (wired version): Connects to your doorbell wiring. Runs on household power.
• Arlo Solar Panel (sold separately): Compatible with most wire-free cameras. Lets you recharge the battery without removing it—ideal for hard-to-reach spots.

Key takeaway: If you’re adding an Arlo add-on camera to a wire-free system (like Pro 4 or Essential), you’ll need batteries. But if you’re mixing in a wired or solar-powered model, you can skip the battery hassle entirely.

Hybrid Systems: The Best of Both Worlds

Many users run hybrid setups—some cameras on batteries, others on power. For example, your front door might have a wired video doorbell, while your backyard uses a battery-powered Pro 5S with a solar panel. This flexibility is one of Arlo’s biggest strengths. But it also means you need to plan your power strategy carefully. More on that in the next section.

How to Choose the Right Batteries for Your Arlo Add-On Camera

Now that you know batteries aren’t included, the next question is: which ones should you buy? The wrong choice can mean shorter life, poor performance in cold weather, or even damage to your camera.

CR123A vs. AA: Understanding the Differences

First, know your camera’s requirements. Most high-end Arlo models use CR123A batteries, while budget models use AA. Here’s what to consider:

• CR123A batteries:
  • Higher voltage (3V vs. 1.5V for AA)
  • Longer shelf life (up to 10 years)
  • Better performance in cold temperatures (great for outdoor use)
  • More expensive (~$3–$5 per battery)
  • Not rechargeable (unless you buy special NiMH CR123A, which are rare)
• AA batteries:
  • Cheaper (~$1–$2 per battery)
  • Widely available
  • Rechargeable options (NiMH or lithium-ion) are common
  • Less efficient in cold weather (lithium AA is better than alkaline)

Real-world example: Sarah, an Arlo Pro 4 user in Minnesota, found her alkaline AA replacements died in -10°F weather. She switched to Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA and saw battery life jump from 2 to 5 months.

Rechargeable vs. Disposable: Which Is Right for You?

This depends on your priorities:

• Disposable lithium batteries (like Energizer or Duracell):
  • Pros: Long life, reliable, no maintenance
  • Cons: Ongoing cost, environmental impact
• Rechargeable NiMH batteries (like Panasonic Eneloop or Tenergy):
  • Pros: Eco-friendly, cheaper long-term
  • Cons: Lower capacity (shorter life), self-discharge over time
• Arlo Rechargeable Battery Pack (for Ultra 2, Pro 5S, etc.):
  • Pros: Seamless integration, fast charging, solar-compatible
  • Cons: Expensive (~$25 per pack), only works with specific models

Tip: If you have 3+ Arlo cameras, the Arlo battery pack might pay for itself in a year. But for occasional use, disposables are simpler.

Where to Buy Batteries: Smart Shopping Tips

• Buy in bulk online (Amazon, Walmart, B&H) to save money
• Check expiration dates—especially for lithium batteries
• Consider a battery organizer to keep spares handy and avoid mix-ups
• For rechargeables, invest in a smart charger (like Nitecore or Opus) to extend battery life

Maximizing Battery Life: Tips to Make Your Batteries Last Longer

Even the best batteries won’t last forever. But with a few smart tweaks, you can stretch their life—and avoid those annoying “low battery” alerts at 2 a.m.

Adjust Your Camera Settings

Your camera’s settings have a huge impact on battery drain. Here’s what to tweak:

• Motion Sensitivity: Lower it slightly to reduce false alerts (like leaves blowing or shadows moving)
• Recording Length: Set it to 10–15 seconds instead of 30. Shorter clips = less processing = less power
• Night Vision: Use “Auto” mode instead of “On.” IR LEDs drain batteries fast
• Activity Zones: Define zones where motion matters (like your driveway) and ignore areas where it doesn’t (like a busy street)
• Video Quality: Lower to 1080p if you don’t need 2K/4K. Higher resolution = more data = more power

Optimize Camera Placement

• Avoid direct sunlight: Heat degrades batteries faster. Use shade or a protective cover
• Minimize Wi-Fi distance: A weak signal forces the camera to work harder, draining batteries
• Use a solar panel: Even partial sun can extend life by 2–3x

Monitor Battery Health

Arlo’s app shows battery percentage, but it’s not always precise. Here’s what to watch for:

• Sudden drops (e.g., from 80% to 30%) might indicate a dying battery or a software bug
• Consistently low life? Try a different battery brand or check for firmware updates
• For rechargeables, track charge cycles—most last 500–1,000 cycles before degrading

Real-World Scenarios: When Batteries Matter Most

Let’s look at how battery choices play out in real life.

Scenario 1: The Busy Parent

Maria has three kids and a dog. Her Arlo Essential cameras run on AA lithiums. She buys a 24-pack every 6 months. “I don’t want to think about batteries,” she says. “Lithiums just work.” Her tip: Keep a spare set in a labeled drawer near the cameras.

Scenario 2: The Tech Enthusiast

James uses Arlo Ultra 2 cameras with Arlo Rechargeable Battery Packs and solar panels. He charges the packs once a month and swaps them during routine maintenance. “It’s a bit pricey upfront,” he admits, “but I haven’t touched a battery in 18 months.”

Scenario 3: The Renter

Alex rents an apartment and uses battery-powered Arlo Pro 4s. He chose them for easy removal when he moves. He uses rechargeable AA batteries (even though the camera takes CR123A) with an adapter. “It’s not ideal,” he says, “but it’s cheaper than buying CR123A every few months.”

Scenario	Camera Model	Battery Type	Avg. Battery Life	Cost per Year	Best For
Busy Parent	Arlo Essential	AA Lithium (disposable)	4–6 months	$30–$40	Low maintenance, reliability
Tech Enthusiast	Arlo Ultra 2	Arlo Rechargeable + Solar	12+ months (with solar)	$25 (initial pack) + $50 (solar)	Long-term savings, eco-friendly
Renter	Arlo Pro 4	AA NiMH (with adapter)	2–3 months	$20 (batteries + charger)	Portability, budget

Final Verdict: Should You Buy Batteries with Your Arlo Add-On?

So, back to the original question: Does an Arlo add-on camera come with batteries? The answer, in almost every case, is no. And while that might feel like a letdown, it’s actually a smart design choice. By not including batteries, Arlo lets you choose the power solution that fits your needs—whether that’s disposable lithiums for simplicity, rechargeables for sustainability, or their own battery pack for seamless integration.

Here’s your action plan:

• Check your camera model’s battery requirements before buying
• Factor battery costs into your budget (a $100 camera + $30 in batteries = $130 total)
• For frequent use, consider the Arlo Rechargeable Battery Pack or a solar panel
• For occasional use, go with high-quality disposables (lithium for CR123A, lithium AA for Essential)
• Always keep spares on hand—nothing kills peace of mind like a dead camera

Remember: the goal isn’t to avoid batteries altogether (though solar comes close). It’s to manage them smartly. With the right choices, your Arlo add-on camera can deliver years of reliable security—without the battery anxiety.

Now go install that camera. And don’t forget the batteries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Arlo add on camera come with batteries included?

Yes, most Arlo add-on cameras come with rechargeable batteries included in the box, so you can set them up right away. However, some models may require separate purchases, so always check the product listing.

What type of batteries do Arlo add-on cameras use?

Arlo add-on cameras typically use proprietary rechargeable lithium-ion batteries designed for long life and weather resistance. The exact model varies by camera series (e.g., Arlo Ultra uses a different battery than Arlo Pro 4).

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

While possible, Arlo recommends using official batteries for optimal performance and warranty compliance. Third-party batteries may not provide the same runtime or weatherproofing as genuine Arlo batteries.

How long do the batteries last in an Arlo add-on camera?

Arlo add-on camera batteries typically last 3–6 months per charge, depending on usage, motion detection frequency, and environmental factors. Battery life can be monitored via the Arlo app.

Do Arlo add-on cameras come with batteries if I buy them used?

Used Arlo add-on cameras may not include original batteries unless specified by the seller. Always verify battery inclusion before purchasing to avoid extra costs.

Where can I buy replacement batteries for my Arlo add-on camera?

Replacement batteries for Arlo add-on cameras are available directly from Arlo, Amazon, and authorized retailers. Ensure compatibility with your specific camera model before purchasing.