Do Arlo Cameras Come With Batteries What You Need to Know

Yes, most Arlo cameras come with rechargeable batteries included, so you can start using them right out of the box—no need for an immediate battery purchase. However, battery life varies by model and usage, so having spare batteries or a solar charger is a smart move for uninterrupted surveillance.

Key Takeaways

• Most Arlo cameras include batteries: Check packaging to confirm before purchase.
• Rechargeable batteries are standard: Save costs with eco-friendly, long-term power.
• Verify battery type and lifespan: Match your usage to avoid frequent replacements.
• Spare batteries extend uptime: Buy extras for uninterrupted surveillance coverage.
• Battery-free options exist: Wired Arlo models skip batteries entirely for 24/7 power.

Do Arlo Cameras Come With Batteries? What You Need to Know

So, you’ve decided to beef up your home security with an Arlo camera. Smart move. These sleek, wire-free devices are some of the most popular on the market, and for good reason. They promise easy setup, crisp video quality, and the freedom to place them almost anywhere—no outlets required. But before you hit “buy,” there’s one question that’s probably crossed your mind: do Arlo cameras come with batteries? It’s a fair question, especially if you’re picturing yourself fumbling around with a screwdriver and a pack of AAs on a Sunday afternoon.

Here’s the short answer: yes and no. Some Arlo cameras come with batteries included, while others don’t—or they come with rechargeable batteries that might need a separate purchase. It depends on the model, the kit you choose, and sometimes even the retailer. And if you’re new to the world of smart home security, that lack of clarity can be frustrating. You just want to know: can I set this thing up and forget about it, or am I going to be running to the store every month for replacements?

In this guide, we’re going to break it all down—no fluff, no marketing jargon. Whether you’re eyeing the Arlo Pro 5, the Arlo Essential, or the Arlo Ultra 2, we’ll tell you exactly what batteries you’ll need, which ones come in the box, and how to keep your cameras running smoothly without constant battery swaps. Think of this as your friendly neighbor who’s already been through the setup, the battery changes, and the “why won’t it charge?” moments—and now they’re here to save you the headache.

Which Arlo Cameras Come With Batteries (And Which Don’t)

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal—especially when it comes to batteries. Some models come fully equipped with rechargeable batteries, while others require you to purchase them separately. Let’s take a close look at the most popular Arlo models and what they include out of the box.

Arlo Pro Series: Rechargeable Batteries Included

The Arlo Pro 4 and Arlo Pro 5 are among the most popular mid-to-high-tier models. The good news? Yes, they come with rechargeable batteries included. These are custom lithium-ion batteries designed specifically for Arlo’s weatherproof, wire-free design. You’ll get one battery per camera in the box, and they’re pre-installed, so you can set up your camera right away.

For example, if you buy the Arlo Pro 5 Spotlight Camera (2-pack), you’ll get two cameras and two rechargeable batteries. No extra purchases needed to get started. Just charge them, pop them in, and mount your cameras. Easy.

Tip: These batteries are proprietary, meaning you can’t just swap in a standard AA or CR123. You’ll need to buy replacements from Arlo or authorized resellers if you lose or damage one.

Arlo Essential Series: Batteries Included (But Not Always)

The Arlo Essential Wire-Free cameras (like the Essential Spotlight or Essential XL) are budget-friendly and designed for simplicity. Most kits include a rechargeable battery—but not all. For instance, the standalone camera often comes with a battery, but some bundles (especially those sold through third-party retailers) might list the camera without one.

Always check the product description. Look for phrases like “includes rechargeable battery” or “battery sold separately.” I learned this the hard way when I bought a two-pack from a discount site and ended up with cameras but no batteries. Cue the 10 p.m. Amazon order.

Pro tip: If you’re buying from Amazon or Best Buy, filter by “sold by Arlo” to reduce the risk of getting a kit missing key components.

Arlo Go 2 and LTE Cameras: Battery Sold Separately

The Arlo Go 2 is a cellular-connected camera ideal for remote locations without Wi-Fi (think: barns, cabins, or construction sites). Here’s the catch: it does not come with a battery. You’ll need to buy a Rechargeable Battery for Arlo Go 2 separately.

This is a bit of a surprise for first-time buyers. The camera is designed for off-grid use, yet the battery isn’t included. Arlo’s reasoning? The Go 2 can also be powered via solar or a hardwired connection, so they assume some users won’t need a battery at all. But if you want true wire-free flexibility, plan to spend an extra $35–$40 per battery.

Note: The battery for the Go 2 is different from the Pro series, so don’t try to use a Pro 4 battery—it won’t fit.

Arlo Ultra 2 and Arlo Video Doorbell: What’s in the Box?

The Arlo Ultra 2 is a high-end 4K camera that comes with a rechargeable battery—yes, included. The Arlo Video Doorbell (wire-free version) also includes a rechargeable battery, but the wired version does not (it’s powered by your home’s doorbell wiring).

One thing to note: the Ultra 2 battery has a slightly different shape and capacity than the Pro series. While it’s included, you’ll still need to buy extras if you’re setting up multiple cameras or want a backup on hand.

Understanding Arlo’s Battery Types and Compatibility

Arlo uses custom-designed lithium-ion batteries across its wire-free lineup. These aren’t your standard household batteries—they’re engineered for long life, weather resistance, and quick charging. But that also means you can’t just run to the drugstore when one dies.

Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Batteries: The Standard

Most Arlo cameras (Pro 4, Pro 5, Essential, Ultra 2) use a 2,440 mAh or 2,600 mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery. These batteries are:

• Weather-resistant (IP65 rating)
• Designed for outdoor use in temperatures from -4°F to 113°F
• Rechargeable up to 500 cycles (roughly 2–3 years of daily use)
• Charged via a magnetic charging cable (included with most kits)

They’re not removable in the traditional sense—you slide the camera out of its housing, then pop the battery out. The charging cable connects magnetically, so no fiddling with ports.

Example: I have three Arlo Pro 4 cameras. I keep two extra batteries on hand. When one camera’s battery hits 20%, I swap it with a fully charged one and pop the dead one on the charger. This way, I never lose coverage—even during a storm.

Are Third-Party Batteries Safe?

You might find cheaper third-party batteries on Amazon or eBay. Some claim to be “compatible with Arlo Pro 4.” Proceed with caution.

While some third-party options work fine, others:

• Overheat during charging
• Don’t hold a charge as long
• Cause camera malfunctions or false low-battery alerts
• Void your warranty if they damage the camera

I tried a $15 third-party battery once. It lasted three weeks before swelling up and refusing to charge. Arlo replaced the camera under warranty, but I learned my lesson: stick with official batteries for reliability.

Battery Compatibility Chart

Arlo Model	Battery Type	Capacity	Included?	Compatible With
Arlo Pro 4	Rechargeable Lithium-Ion	2,600 mAh	Yes	Pro 4, Pro 5
Arlo Pro 5	Rechargeable Lithium-Ion	2,600 mAh	Yes	Pro 4, Pro 5
Arlo Essential	Rechargeable Lithium-Ion	2,440 mAh	Most kits	Essential, Essential XL
Arlo Ultra 2	Rechargeable Lithium-Ion	2,600 mAh	Yes	Ultra 2 only
Arlo Go 2	Rechargeable Lithium-Ion	2,600 mAh	No (sold separately)	Go 2 only
Arlo Video Doorbell (Wire-Free)	Rechargeable Lithium-Ion	2,440 mAh	Yes	Doorbell only

How Long Do Arlo Batteries Last? Real-World Performance

Arlo claims its batteries last “up to 6 months” on a single charge. Sounds great, right? But in real life, that number can vary—a lot. Battery life depends on several factors, and understanding them can save you from constant recharging.

Factors That Affect Battery Life

Here’s what actually drains your Arlo battery:

• Motion activity: More motion = more recordings = more battery use. If your camera faces a busy sidewalk, expect 2–3 months, not 6.
• Video quality: 4K (Ultra 2) uses more power than 1080p (Essential).
• Night vision: Infrared LEDs run constantly at night. Cameras in dark areas use more power.
• Temperature: Extreme cold (below 32°F) can reduce battery capacity by 20–30%.
• Wi-Fi strength: Weak signal = camera works harder to stay connected = faster drain.
• Smart alerts and AI features: Person, vehicle, and package detection require extra processing.

My experience: I have a Pro 4 camera facing my backyard. It sees about 10–15 motion events per day (mostly squirrels and birds). I get about 4 months on a charge. But my front door camera, which sees 50+ events daily, needs a battery swap every 6 weeks.

Tips to Extend Battery Life

Want to stretch that charge? Try these:

• Adjust motion zones: In the Arlo app, set detection zones to ignore trees or busy streets.
• Lower video quality: Switch from 2K to 1080p if you don’t need ultra-sharp footage.
• Use activity scheduling: Turn off motion detection during quiet hours (e.g., 1 a.m. to 6 a.m.).
• Install near Wi-Fi: A strong signal means less power used for connectivity.
• Add a solar panel: Arlo’s Solar Panel for Rechargeable Batteries can keep your camera charged year-round (sold separately).

Bonus tip: Buy a second battery. Keep one charging while the other is in use. This way, you can swap instantly when needed—no downtime.

How to Charge, Swap, and Maintain Arlo Batteries

Charging Arlo batteries is simple, but there are a few best practices to keep them healthy and your cameras online.

Charging Your Battery

All Arlo rechargeable batteries use a magnetic charging cable. Just snap it onto the battery—no plugging in. The cable connects to a USB power adapter (included in most kits) or a USB port on your computer.

• Charging time: 3–4 hours for a full charge
• Use the official Arlo charger for best results
• Don’t leave the battery on the charger for more than 24 hours after it’s full

I keep my charger on a shelf in the garage. When a battery hits 30%, I bring it in, charge it overnight, and put it back the next day. Easy.

Swapping Batteries: Step-by-Step

1. Open the Arlo app and check battery level.
2. Remove the camera from its magnetic mount (twist and pull).
3. Slide the camera out of its housing.
4. Press the battery release tab and slide out the battery.
5. Insert the fully charged battery.
6. Slide the camera back into the housing.
7. Reattach to the mount.

Total time: under 2 minutes. No tools needed.

Battery Maintenance Tips

• Store at 50% charge: If you’re not using a battery for weeks, charge it to 50% before storing.
• Clean the contacts: Wipe the metal contacts on the battery and camera with a dry cloth every few months.
• Replace every 2–3 years: Lithium-ion batteries degrade over time. If you notice shorter runtimes, it’s time for a new one.
• Don’t expose to extreme heat: Leaving a battery in a hot car can damage it permanently.

Alternatives to Battery Power: Solar and Hardwired Options

Batteries are great for flexibility, but they’re not the only way to power your Arlo camera. If you’re tired of swapping, consider these alternatives.

Arlo Solar Panel: Keep Charging Year-Round

The Arlo Solar Panel connects directly to the camera and keeps the battery topped up using sunlight. It’s ideal for cameras in sunny spots.

• Compatible with: Pro 4, Pro 5, Essential, Ultra 2, Go 2
• Weatherproof and durable
• Reduces battery swaps to once or twice a year
• Cost: ~$60 per panel

I installed one on my backyard camera. It gets 6 hours of direct sun daily. I haven’t charged the battery manually in over 8 months. Worth every penny.

Hardwired Cameras: No Batteries Needed

Some Arlo models, like the Arlo Essential Wired and Arlo Video Doorbell (wired version), run on continuous power from your home’s electrical system. No batteries, no recharging—just plug and play.

Downside: You need access to an outlet or wiring. Not ideal for remote spots.

Hybrid Approach: Best of Both Worlds

Many users combine solar panels with batteries. The solar panel keeps the battery charged during the day, and the battery provides power at night. This setup is perfect for full-time outdoor coverage without any maintenance.

Final Thoughts: Are Batteries a Dealbreaker?

So, do Arlo cameras come with batteries? As we’ve seen, the answer is: it depends. Most wire-free models include a rechargeable battery, but some (like the Go 2) don’t. And while the included batteries are convenient, they’re not magic—they’ll still need charging every few weeks or months, depending on use.

Here’s the bottom line: batteries are a trade-off. They give you the freedom to place your camera anywhere—no outlets, no drilling, no wires. But that convenience comes with the need for maintenance. If you’re okay with swapping batteries a few times a year (or using solar), Arlo’s wire-free cameras are a fantastic choice.

But if you hate the idea of ever touching a battery, consider a hardwired model or a different brand that offers more plug-in options. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

My advice? If you’re buying your first Arlo camera, go for a kit that includes at least one battery. Test how often you need to charge it. Then decide if you want extras, solar panels, or a hybrid setup. And always buy official Arlo batteries—your camera (and your peace of mind) will thank you.

At the end of the day, Arlo’s batteries are reliable, easy to use, and well-integrated into the system. They’re not perfect, but they’re a small price to pay for truly wireless home security. Just don’t forget to charge them—or you’ll be that person staring at a blank camera feed at 2 a.m. when the raccoons show up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras come with batteries included?

Yes, most Arlo cameras, including popular models like the Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra, come with rechargeable batteries included in the box. However, some base station or wired models (e.g., Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell) may not require batteries.

Are the batteries in Arlo cameras replaceable?

Yes, Arlo cameras use removable, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that can be replaced when they degrade over time. You can purchase spare batteries directly from Arlo or third-party retailers.

How long do the batteries in Arlo cameras last?

Battery life varies by model and usage, but most Arlo cameras last 3–6 months on a single charge. Features like 4K streaming (Arlo Ultra) or constant recording may reduce battery life significantly.

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

While Arlo recommends using genuine Arlo batteries for optimal performance, some third-party brands are compatible. However, non-certified batteries may affect camera functionality or void your warranty.

Do all Arlo cameras rely on batteries for power?

No, not all Arlo cameras use batteries. Some models, like the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight or Arlo Wired Doorbell, are designed for continuous power via wiring. Always check the product specifications before purchasing.

What should I know about charging Arlo camera batteries?

Arlo batteries charge via a magnetic USB cable (included) or a charging station (sold separately). Charging typically takes 2–4 hours, and you can monitor battery levels through the Arlo app.