How Do I Charge My Arlo Pro 2 Camera A Complete Guide

To charge your Arlo Pro 2 camera, simply connect the included USB cable to the charging port and plug it into a power source—no need to remove the battery. For continuous use, consider the optional solar panel or spare batteries to keep your camera powered longer. Always use Arlo-certified accessories to ensure safety and optimal performance.

Key Takeaways

• Use the included charger: Always charge with Arlo’s original 5V/2A adapter and cable.
• Check LED indicators: Solid amber means charging; green means fully charged.
• Charge indoors: Avoid weather damage by charging only in dry, covered areas.
• Remove battery first: Power down and take out the battery before charging.
• Monitor charging time: A full charge takes about 2–3 hours; avoid overcharging.
• Use compatible accessories: Third-party chargers may harm battery life—stick to Arlo-approved gear.

Why Charging Your Arlo Pro 2 Camera Matters

You’ve just installed your Arlo Pro 2 cameras around your home—maybe one by the front door, another overlooking the backyard, and perhaps a third watching the garage. You’re feeling pretty good. The setup was smooth, the video quality is sharp, and the motion alerts are already proving useful. But then it hits you: *“How do I charge my Arlo Pro 2 camera?”*

It’s a question that comes up more often than you’d think. The Arlo Pro 2 is a fantastic wireless security camera, praised for its 1080p HD video, night vision, two-way audio, and weather resistance. But like all battery-powered devices, it needs recharging. And unlike a smartphone that you plug in every night, these cameras live outside, often in hard-to-reach spots. So when the battery starts to dip, figuring out how to charge them can feel like solving a puzzle. I’ve been there—climbing ladders in the rain, trying to remember which camera I charged last, and wondering if I’m doing it right.

Understanding the Arlo Pro 2 Battery System

How the Battery Works

The Arlo Pro 2 uses a rechargeable 2440mAh lithium-ion battery, designed specifically for outdoor use. This battery is removable, which is a huge plus compared to some other wireless cameras with built-in, non-swappable batteries. Each camera comes with one battery, and you can buy extras (sold separately) to rotate them. This means you can keep one set charging while another set is in use—no downtime.

On average, a fully charged battery lasts 4 to 6 months, depending on usage. If your camera is in a high-traffic area—say, near a driveway or sidewalk—it’ll trigger more motion alerts, record more clips, and use more power. Conversely, a camera facing a quiet backyard might last closer to six months. I’ve had mine last five months in a moderate-traffic zone, but after adding a second camera nearby, the battery life dropped to about four months due to increased activity.

What Affects Battery Life?

Several factors influence how quickly your Arlo Pro 2 battery drains:

• Motion activity: More motion = more recordings = more power used. A camera in a busy street will drain faster than one in a secluded garden.
• Video quality and settings: Recording in 1080p uses more power than 720p (though Arlo Pro 2 only records in 1080p). Frequent live streaming also drains the battery.
• Temperature: Extreme cold or heat affects lithium-ion batteries. In winter, I noticed my battery life dropped by about 20% when temperatures dipped below 20°F (-6°C). In summer, heat can also cause the battery to overheat and shut down temporarily.
• Wi-Fi signal strength: A weak connection forces the camera to work harder to send data, using more power.
• Firmware updates: Occasionally, updates can cause temporary power spikes as the camera processes new software.

Tip: Use the Arlo app to monitor battery levels. When a battery hits 20%, the app sends a push notification. That’s your cue to plan a recharge—don’t wait until it hits 0%!

Step-by-Step: How to Charge Your Arlo Pro 2 Camera

Step 1: Remove the Battery

First, you need to take the battery out of the camera. This sounds simple, but it’s easy to fumble if you’ve never done it before.

• Power off the camera (optional but recommended).
• Locate the battery compartment on the back or bottom of the camera.
• Slide the latch or press the release button (depending on your model) and gently pull the battery out.
• Hold the battery by the sides—don’t touch the metal contacts.

I learned the hard way that forcing the battery out can damage the latch. Be gentle. It should slide out smoothly with a little pressure.

Step 2: Use the Arlo Pro 2 Charging Station

The Arlo Pro 2 comes with a dedicated charging station—a small dock with a USB port and a slot for the battery. Here’s how to use it:

• Plug the charging station into a wall outlet using the included USB power adapter and cable.
• Insert the battery into the charging slot, making sure the contacts align.
• The LED light on the station will turn red when charging and green when fully charged.

The charging time is about 3 to 4 hours for a full charge. I usually charge mine overnight so they’re ready by morning. The station can charge one battery at a time, so if you have multiple cameras, you’ll need extra batteries or multiple stations.

Step 3: Alternative Charging Methods

What if you don’t have the charging station? Or you’re traveling and forgot it? Here are a few backup options:

• USB wall charger: You can plug the charging station into any standard USB wall adapter (like the one for your phone).
• Computer or laptop USB port: Works in a pinch, but it’s slower. I’ve used this when camping and only had a laptop.
• Power bank: Great for emergencies. I keep a 10,000mAh power bank in my car for quick recharges when I’m away from home.
• Arlo Pro 2 Solar Panel (sold separately): This is a game-changer. It connects directly to the camera (no battery removal needed) and charges it using sunlight. More on this below.

Note: Never use a third-party charger or battery not designed for Arlo. It can damage the camera or void your warranty.

Tips to Maximize Battery Life and Charging Efficiency

Rotate Your Batteries Like a Pro

If you have multiple Arlo Pro 2 cameras, invest in extra batteries (sold in packs of two). Here’s how to manage them:

1. Label each battery with a number or color (I use blue for camera 1, red for camera 2).
2. Keep a charging log in a notebook or phone app. For example: “Blue battery charged on 10/15, swapped into front camera.”
3. When a battery hits 20%, remove it and charge it. Insert a fresh battery into the camera.
4. Rotate every 3–4 months to ensure even wear.

This system saved me during a winter storm when one camera died. I had a spare battery ready to go—no scrambling.

Optimize Camera Settings

You don’t need to record 24/7 to stay secure. Adjust settings to extend battery life:

• Motion sensitivity: Lower it in quiet areas. I set mine to “Medium” for the backyard and “High” for the front door.
• Activity zones: Use the app to define zones. For example, ignore the street but detect movement on the porch.
• Recording length: Set recordings to 10–15 seconds instead of 30 seconds. Shorter clips = less power.
• Night vision mode: Use “Auto” instead of “On” to reduce IR LED usage.

I once had a camera constantly triggered by a neighbor’s cat. After setting an activity zone, the battery life jumped from 3.5 to 5 months.

Use the Arlo Solar Panel (Highly Recommended)

The Arlo Pro 2 Solar Panel is a fantastic add-on. It attaches to the camera with a 6-foot cable and charges the battery using sunlight. Here’s what I love about it:

• No need to remove the battery—just plug and forget.
• Ideal for cameras in hard-to-reach spots (e.g., second-floor eaves).
• Keeps the battery topped up, even in winter (as long as there’s sunlight).

I installed one on my backyard camera, which gets 4–5 hours of direct sun daily. The battery hasn’t dropped below 80% in six months. The only downside? It’s a bit pricey (around $80), but worth it for peace of mind.

Troubleshooting Common Charging Issues

“My Battery Isn’t Charging”

First, don’t panic. This happens more often than you’d think. Here’s what to check:

• Check the contacts: Clean the battery and charging station contacts with a soft, dry cloth. Dirt or corrosion can prevent charging.
• Try a different outlet: Sometimes a wall outlet is dead. Test with another device.
• Inspect the cable: Frayed or bent USB cables can cause charging failures. I’ve had two cables go bad after a year.
• Reset the charging station: Unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.

If none of these work, the battery might be faulty. Arlo batteries typically last 2–3 years. If yours is older, it may need replacement.

“The App Says Battery Is Low, But It’s Fully Charged”

This is a software glitch. Try these fixes:

• Re-sync the camera: In the Arlo app, go to the camera settings and tap “Remove Camera.” Then re-add it.
• Update the firmware: Go to Settings > My Devices > Firmware Update.
• Restart the camera: Power it off, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on.

I once had a camera stuck at 10% for a week. After a firmware update, it corrected itself.

“Charging Takes Too Long”

If charging takes longer than 4–5 hours, check:

• Power source: A weak USB port (like on an old laptop) can slow charging. Use a wall adapter.
• Battery age: Older batteries charge slower. If yours is over 2 years old, consider replacing it.
• Temperature: Charging below 32°F (0°C) or above 104°F (40°C) can trigger safety delays.

One winter, my battery took 6 hours to charge because I left the charging station in an unheated garage. Lesson learned: charge indoors!

Comparing Charging Options: Data Table

Charging Method	Time to Full Charge	Convenience	Cost	Best For
Arlo Charging Station + Wall Adapter	3–4 hours	High (dedicated dock)	$0 (included with camera)	Home charging, multiple batteries
USB Power Bank	4–5 hours	Medium (portable)	$20–$50 (one-time)	Travel, emergencies
Arlo Solar Panel	Continuous (sunlight-dependent)	Very High (set and forget)	$80 (sold separately)	Outdoor cameras, hard-to-reach spots
Computer USB Port	5–6 hours	Low (slow, requires PC)	$0	Emergency use only
Third-Party Charger (not recommended)	Unknown	Low (risk of damage)	Varies	Never use

This table helped me decide to buy the solar panel. The upfront cost was high, but the long-term convenience is unmatched.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Arlo Pro 2 Running Smoothly

Charging your Arlo Pro 2 camera isn’t just about plugging it in—it’s about strategy, maintenance, and smart habits. Whether you’re using the standard charging station, a solar panel, or a power bank, the goal is the same: keep your cameras online and your home secure.

Here’s my final advice: Don’t wait until the battery dies. Set reminders, rotate batteries, and use the app to monitor levels. Invest in a solar panel if you can—it’s a small price for constant peace of mind. And if you run into issues, remember: most problems have simple fixes. Clean the contacts, check the power source, or restart the camera. You’ve got this.

I’ve had my Arlo Pro 2 setup for over two years now. With proper charging and care, they’ve never let me down—even during storms, power outages, and extreme temperatures. The key is consistency. Just like charging your phone, it becomes part of your routine. And once you’ve got it down, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

So the next time you ask, *“How do I charge my Arlo Pro 2 camera?”*—you’ll know the answer isn’t just about the plug. It’s about planning, patience, and a little bit of tech-savvy love for your home security system. Happy charging!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I charge my Arlo Pro 2 camera?

To charge your Arlo Pro 2 camera, connect the included USB charging cable to the camera’s charging port and plug the other end into a power source like a wall adapter or power bank. The camera’s LED light will turn amber while charging and green when fully charged.

Can I charge my Arlo Pro 2 camera with a solar panel?

Yes, you can charge your Arlo Pro 2 camera using the Arlo Solar Panel (sold separately) for continuous, eco-friendly power. Simply connect the solar panel to the camera via the USB cable and ensure it’s placed in direct sunlight for optimal performance.

How long does it take to fully charge an Arlo Pro 2 camera?

The Arlo Pro 2 camera typically takes about 3-4 hours to fully charge using a standard 5V/2A wall adapter. Charging time may vary slightly depending on the power source and battery level.

Is it safe to leave my Arlo Pro 2 camera charging overnight?

Yes, it’s safe to charge your Arlo Pro 2 camera overnight. The camera has built-in overcharge protection, so once the battery is full, the charging automatically stops to prevent damage.

Can I use a third-party charger to charge my Arlo Pro 2?

While Arlo recommends using the official charger, you can use a third-party USB charger with a 5V/2A output. Avoid fast chargers or high-voltage adapters, as they may harm the battery or reduce its lifespan.

How do I know if my Arlo Pro 2 camera is charging properly?

Check the camera’s LED light: amber indicates charging, and green means fully charged. If the light doesn’t turn on or flashes red, ensure the cable is securely connected or try a different power source.