How Can I Charge My Arlo Camera A Complete Guide

Charging your Arlo camera is simple: use the included USB cable and a power source like a wall adapter or portable battery. Most Arlo models feature removable batteries or built-in rechargeable cells, so you can power up indoors or on the go—just ensure the battery is properly seated and connected. For uninterrupted security, consider spare batteries or solar chargers to keep your camera running 24/7.

Key Takeaways

• Use the official charger to avoid damaging your Arlo camera’s battery.
• Charge indoors for safety, especially in extreme weather conditions.
• Monitor battery levels via the Arlo app to prevent unexpected shutdowns.
• Fully charge before first use to maximize battery lifespan and performance.
• Keep ports clean to ensure efficient charging and connectivity.
• Replace old batteries promptly to maintain reliable camera operation.

How Do Arlo Cameras Get Power? Understanding the Basics

Imagine this: you’ve just installed your Arlo camera to keep an eye on your front porch, backyard, or even your baby’s nursery. It’s sleek, wireless, and promises 24/7 security. But then, a few days later, you get a low battery alert. Panic sets in—how do you charge it? Do you need a special cable? Is there a dock? And what if you have multiple cameras?

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How can I charge my Arlo camera?”—you’re not alone. Whether you’re a first-time Arlo user or upgrading from an older model, knowing how to power your camera properly is essential for uninterrupted security. The good news? Charging your Arlo camera isn’t rocket science. But it *is* important to understand the differences between models, power options, and best practices to avoid downtime and maximize performance.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about charging your Arlo camera. From plug-in options and battery swaps to solar solutions and troubleshooting tips, we’ll cover it all—no tech degree required. Think of this as a friendly chat over coffee, where I share what I’ve learned from years of testing Arlo setups in real homes, apartments, and even remote cabins.

Arlo Camera Models and Their Charging Options

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal—especially when it comes to power. The charging method depends heavily on your specific model. Let’s break it down by the most common Arlo lines so you can quickly identify what applies to your setup.

Arlo Pro Series (Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S)

The Arlo Pro series is one of the most popular lines for home security. These cameras are wire-free, meaning they run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Here’s how charging works:

• Each camera comes with a built-in battery (usually 3.7V, 2440mAh).
• When the battery runs low (typically after 3–6 months, depending on usage), you remove the camera from its mount.
• You then plug the included USB charging cable into the camera’s micro-USB or USB-C port (varies by model).
• Connect the other end to a wall adapter, power bank, or computer USB port.
• Charge time: 2–4 hours for a full charge.

Pro Tip: Keep a spare battery on hand if you have multiple cameras. Swap the drained one and charge it indoors while the other keeps watching. This is a game-changer for homes with 3+ cameras.

Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2

The premium Arlo Ultra models also use rechargeable batteries but come with a few upgrades:

• Higher-capacity batteries (up to 4800mAh) for longer life.
• USB-C charging port (faster and more durable than micro-USB).
• Optional Arlo Solar Panel (more on this later).

Charging is similar to the Pro series, but the Ultra’s battery lasts longer—around 4–6 months with average use. The USB-C port also allows for quicker charging (about 3 hours).

Arlo Essential Series (Essential Wire-Free, Essential Spotlight, Essential XL)

These budget-friendly cameras use the same rechargeable battery system as the Pro series, but with a twist:

• The Essential XL has a larger battery (up to 6500mAh) for extended runtime.
• All models use micro-USB charging (except Essential XL, which uses USB-C).
• They’re designed for easier battery access—some even have a quick-release latch.

Real-life example: I tested the Essential XL in my backyard for 8 months with motion alerts set to high. It only needed charging twice—once after a storm triggered constant recordings, and once during winter when cold weather reduced battery efficiency.

Arlo Go and Arlo Go 2 (LTE Cameras)

These are cellular-powered cameras for areas without Wi-Fi. They use the same battery system but have unique considerations:

• LTE connectivity drains the battery faster—expect 1–3 months per charge.
• Charging is done via micro-USB (Go) or USB-C (Go 2).
• Ideal for remote sheds, vacation homes, or construction sites.

Arlo Video Doorbell and Floodlight Cam

These models are different—they’re wired and don’t use batteries. But they still need a power source:

• Video Doorbell: Connects to existing doorbell wiring (8–24V AC transformer). No charging needed.
• Floodlight Cam: Hardwired to outdoor electrical box (100–240V AC). Again, no battery to charge.

However, if your wiring isn’t compatible, Arlo offers battery-powered versions (e.g., Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free), which use the same rechargeable system as other wire-free models.

How to Charge Your Arlo Camera: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you know your camera type, let’s get into the nitty-gritty: how to actually charge it. I’ll walk you through the process for battery-powered models, with tips to make it painless and efficient.

Step 1: Monitor Battery Levels

Don’t wait for a “low battery” alert. The Arlo app shows battery percentage for each camera. Check it weekly, especially during high-use periods (e.g., holidays with frequent motion).

• Open the Arlo app → tap your camera → look for the battery icon.
• Set up battery alerts in Settings → Notifications → Battery Level.
• At 20–30%, start planning your charge.

Step 2: Remove the Camera (If Needed)

Most Arlo cameras have a quick-release mount. Here’s how to remove them safely:

• Press the release button (usually on the side or bottom).
• Gently twist and pull the camera away from the mount.
• For models like Arlo Ultra, there’s a small latch—lift it first.

Tip: If your camera is high up, use a ladder with a spotter. Better safe than sorry!

Step 3: Connect the Charging Cable

Now, plug in the right cable:

• Pro 2/3/4: Micro-USB cable (included).
• Pro 5S, Ultra, Essential XL: USB-C cable (included).
• Never force a cable into the port—check the shape first.

Connect the other end to a reliable power source:

• Wall adapter (5V/2A recommended).
• USB port on a laptop or PC.
• Power bank (great for charging outdoors).

Personal hack: I keep a 20,000mAh Anker power bank in my garage. When I need to charge a camera outside, I just plug it in and let it charge while I’m doing yard work. No trips inside!

Step 4: Monitor Charging Progress

The camera’s LED light tells you what’s happening:

• Solid orange: Charging.
• Solid green: Fully charged.
• Flashing red: Error (e.g., faulty cable, overheating).

Charging usually takes 2–4 hours. Don’t leave it plugged in overnight—modern Arlo batteries have overcharge protection, but it’s still good practice to unplug once charged.

Step 5: Reinstall the Camera

Once charged:

• Align the camera with the mount.
• Push it in until you hear a click.
• Check the app to confirm it’s online.

Pro Tip: If the camera doesn’t reconnect, try restarting your router or the Arlo base station. Sometimes a simple reset fixes connection hiccups.

Solar Panels and Continuous Power Solutions

Let’s face it: charging batteries every few months gets old fast. If you have multiple cameras or live in a high-traffic area (like a busy street), you might be charging more than you’d like. That’s where solar panels and other continuous power options come in.

Arlo Solar Panel (Official)

The Arlo-branded solar panel is designed specifically for Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S, Ultra, Essential, and Go 2 cameras. Here’s how it works:

• Mount the solar panel in direct sunlight (south-facing is best in the Northern Hemisphere).
• Connect it to your camera via the included 8-foot cable.
• The panel charges the battery during the day, keeping it topped up.

Pros:

• Reduces or eliminates manual charging.
• Eco-friendly and cost-effective long-term.
• Weather-resistant (IP65 rating).

Cons:

• Requires consistent sunlight (not ideal for shaded areas).
• Initial cost: ~$79.99 (check for sales).
• Not compatible with all models (e.g., Arlo Go LTE).

Real-world test: I installed a solar panel on my backyard Arlo Ultra. Over 6 months, it only needed one manual charge during winter (short days + snow cover). In summer, it ran completely solar-powered.

Third-Party Solar Panels

Some users opt for generic solar panels (e.g., Anker, EcoFlow). These can work if they output 5V/2A and have a compatible connector. But beware:

• Voltage too high can damage the camera.
• Cheap panels may not deliver consistent power.

Tip: Use a USB voltage tester to ensure your panel outputs 5V before connecting.

Wired Power Kits (For Battery Cameras)

Arlo offers Wired Power Kits for Pro 3, Pro 4, and Essential models. These let you power the camera continuously using a 5V/2A adapter and a 30-foot cable. It’s a hybrid solution:

• The camera still has a battery for backup if power fails.
• No more manual charging—just plug it in.

Perfect for cameras near outdoor outlets (e.g., near a garage or porch light).

DIY Power Solutions

For the tech-savvy, some users power Arlo cameras with:

• USB outlets on outdoor power strips.
• 12V car batteries (with a USB converter).
• Home solar systems with USB ports.

Caution: DIY setups can void your warranty. Stick to official Arlo accessories unless you’re comfortable with electrical risks.

Common Charging Problems and How to Fix Them

Even the best tech has hiccups. Here are the most common charging issues Arlo users face—and how to solve them.

Camera Won’t Charge

Symptoms: LED stays off or flashes red. Cable feels loose.

Solutions:

• Check the cable: Try a different USB cable (e.g., one from your phone).
• Clean the port: Use a toothpick or compressed air to remove dust/debris.
• Test the power source: Plug the cable into a different outlet or device.
• Reset the camera: Remove the battery (if possible) and reinsert it.

Slow Charging

Symptoms: Battery takes 8+ hours to charge.

Causes:

• Weak power source (e.g., a 500mA USB port).
• Damaged cable (internal wires frayed).
• Old battery (after 2+ years, lithium-ion degrades).

Fix: Use a 2A wall adapter and a high-quality cable. If the battery is old, consider replacing it (Arlo sells replacements for ~$39).

Battery Drains Too Fast

Symptoms: Camera needs charging every 2–3 weeks.

Possible Reasons:

• High motion activity (e.g., tree branches triggering alerts).
• Cold weather (batteries lose capacity below 32°F/0°C).
• Wi-Fi signal weak (camera works harder to stay connected).

Tips to Extend Battery Life:

• Adjust motion zones to exclude moving objects (e.g., trees, cars).
• Lower video quality to 720p (saves power).
• Use activity zones to reduce false alerts.
• Install near a Wi-Fi extender or move the base station closer.

My experience: My front door camera kept draining fast. I realized it was picking up my neighbor’s cat walking by every hour. After adjusting motion zones, battery life doubled.

Camera Doesn’t Reconnect After Charging

Symptoms: Camera shows as offline in the app.

Solutions:

• Restart the camera: Hold the sync button for 10 seconds.
• Restart the base station or router.
• Re-add the camera to your account (rarely needed).

Data Table: Arlo Camera Charging Specs Compared

Model	Battery Type	Charging Port	Charge Time	Battery Life (Avg)	Solar Panel Compatible?
Arlo Pro 2/3/4	Rechargeable (2440mAh)	Micro-USB	2–3 hours	3–6 months	Yes (Pro 3/4 only)
Arlo Pro 5S	Rechargeable (3000mAh)	USB-C	2.5–3.5 hours	4–6 months	Yes
Arlo Ultra/Ultra 2	Rechargeable (4800mAh)	USB-C	3–4 hours	4–6 months	Yes
Arlo Essential	Rechargeable (2440mAh)	Micro-USB	2–3 hours	2–4 months	Yes
Arlo Essential XL	Rechargeable (6500mAh)	USB-C	3–4 hours	6–8 months	Yes
Arlo Go 2	Rechargeable (3000mAh)	USB-C	2.5–3.5 hours	1–3 months (LTE)	Yes

Final Thoughts: Making Charging Effortless

So, how can I charge my Arlo camera? The answer depends on your model, but the core principles are the same: understand your camera’s power needs, use the right tools, and plan ahead. Whether you’re swapping batteries every few months, installing a solar panel, or wiring it up for continuous power, the goal is to keep your camera online—without turning charging into a chore.

Here’s my final advice: start simple. Use the included cable and wall adapter for a few months to get a feel for your camera’s battery life. Then, invest in extras like spare batteries, a solar panel, or a wired kit if needed. And don’t forget the little things—like cleaning the charging port or adjusting motion zones—that make a big difference in the long run.

Remember, your Arlo camera is only as good as its power supply. By staying proactive and using the right charging strategy, you’ll keep your home secure, your mind at ease, and your batteries happy. Now go charge that camera—and maybe treat yourself to a coffee while it powers up. You’ve earned it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I charge my Arlo camera if it has a rechargeable battery?

Most Arlo cameras with rechargeable batteries (like Arlo Pro or Ultra) can be charged by removing the battery and connecting it to the included USB charging cable. Plug the cable into a wall adapter or powered USB port for 3–5 hours until fully charged.

Can I charge my Arlo camera using solar power?

Yes, Arlo offers official Solar Panels (sold separately) compatible with select models like Arlo Pro 3/4/Ultra. The solar panel connects directly to the camera via a weather-resistant cable, providing continuous charging with sunlight.

How do I charge my Arlo camera without removing the battery?

For Arlo Go or Arlo Essential models with non-removable batteries, use the provided magnetic charging cable to plug directly into the camera’s port. Keep the camera mounted while charging—ideal for temporary power boosts.

What type of charger does an Arlo camera need?

Arlo cameras typically use a 5V/2A USB charger (like smartphone adapters). For fastest charging, use the original Arlo charging cable and a high-quality adapter. Avoid low-power sources like laptops for prolonged charging.

How long does it take to fully charge an Arlo camera?

Charging time varies by model: Arlo Pro batteries take ~3.5 hours, while larger batteries (Ultra) may need up to 5 hours. Use the Arlo app to monitor battery status and charging progress remotely.

Why isn’t my Arlo camera charging when plugged in?

Check for damaged cables, dirty charging ports, or low-power adapters. Ensure the battery is properly seated (if removable). If issues persist, try a different outlet or contact Arlo support—your battery may need replacement.