How Do You Charge Your Arlo Camera A Complete Guide

Charging your Arlo camera is simple and flexible, with options for USB cables, solar panels, or the Arlo Pro Charging Station. Most models use a magnetic charging cable—just snap it to the camera’s base for a secure connection—while wire-free versions allow easy removal for indoor charging. For uninterrupted security, consider a solar charger to keep your camera powered 24/7 with minimal effort.

Key Takeaways

• Use the official charger: Always charge with Arlo’s provided USB cable and adapter for safety.
• Check battery levels: Monitor charge status via the Arlo app to avoid power loss.
• Remove the battery: Detach it first for easier charging with select Arlo models.
• Charge indoors: Avoid extreme temperatures to protect battery life and performance.
• Use a power bank: Portable options work for on-the-go charging when outlets aren’t available.
• Clean contacts regularly: Wipe battery and camera terminals to ensure efficient charging.

How Do You Charge Your Arlo Camera? A Complete Guide

Let’s face it—security cameras are no longer a luxury. They’re a necessity. Whether you’re keeping an eye on your front porch, monitoring your backyard, or just making sure your kids get home safely, your Arlo camera is probably one of the most reliable tools in your home security system. But here’s the thing: even the best security camera is useless if it’s not charged. So, how do you charge your Arlo camera? It sounds simple, right? Plug it in. Done. But if you’ve ever stood in your driveway at 2 a.m. with a dead camera and a flashlight, you know it’s not always that easy.

I’ve been there. I had an Arlo Pro 3 mounted on the side of my garage, and one rainy evening, I realized it hadn’t recorded a thing for three days. The battery was dead, and I hadn’t noticed. That’s when I dove deep into the world of Arlo charging—what works, what doesn’t, and how to keep your cameras running 24/7 without losing your mind. Whether you’re a new Arlo user or a seasoned pro, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about charging your Arlo camera, from plug-in options to solar solutions, troubleshooting tips, and even how to extend battery life. Let’s get into it—because peace of mind shouldn’t come with constant battery anxiety.

Understanding Your Arlo Camera’s Power Options

Before we talk about how to charge your Arlo camera, let’s clarify what you’re working with. Arlo offers a range of cameras, and each has slightly different charging capabilities. The good news? Most Arlo models use rechargeable batteries, which means you don’t have to replace them every few months like traditional AA-powered systems. But the charging method? That depends on your specific model.

Arlo Camera Models and Their Charging Types

• Arlo Pro Series (Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4): These use removable, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. You can charge them in-camera via a magnetic charging cable or remove the battery and charge it separately.
• Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2: Similar to the Pro series, but with higher capacity batteries and support for faster charging.
• Arlo Essential (Indoor, Outdoor, Wire-Free): These have built-in batteries that are charged directly via USB-C. No removable battery option.
• Arlo Go: Designed for cellular use, this camera has a built-in battery and charges via USB-C or a solar panel.
• Arlo Floodlight Cameras: These often run on a built-in battery but can also be hardwired for continuous power.

One thing to note: not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to charging flexibility. If you want the freedom to swap batteries or use solar, stick with the Pro or Ultra series. If you prefer a simpler setup with no battery removal, the Essential or Go models might suit you better—just keep in mind you’ll need to bring the camera indoors (or use a long cable) to charge it.

Why Charging Method Matters

Imagine this: you’re on vacation, and your camera dies because you forgot to charge it. With a removable battery, you could have just popped in a spare. But with a built-in battery, you’d need to bring the whole camera inside—or worse, wait until you return. That’s why understanding your camera’s charging options is crucial. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about reliability.

Also, consider your home setup. Do you have outdoor outlets? Is your camera mounted high up? These factors will influence whether you go with a direct cable, solar panel, or battery swap strategy. The key is to pick a method that fits your lifestyle—not the other way around.

Charging Your Arlo Camera: Step-by-Step Methods

Now that we know what we’re working with, let’s dive into the actual charging process. There are three main ways to charge your Arlo camera, and the best one depends on your model and setup.

Method 1: Magnetic Charging Cable (For Pro and Ultra Series)

This is the most popular method for Arlo Pro and Ultra users. The magnetic charging cable snaps onto the back of the camera (or the battery, if removed) and connects to a USB power source.

1. Locate the magnetic charging port on your camera (usually on the back or bottom).
2. Align the magnetic end of the cable with the port—it should snap on easily.
3. Connect the other end to a USB power adapter (like the one that came with your Arlo kit) and plug it into a wall outlet.
4. Wait for the LED indicator to turn green—this means the camera is charging.

Pro tip: Use a short magnetic cable if your camera is mounted high. A long cable can dangle and look messy. Arlo sells 6-foot and 10-foot cables, but I’ve found that a 3-foot cable with a wall adapter works best for most outdoor setups.

One thing to watch out for: make sure the magnetic connection is secure. Wind or rain can cause the cable to disconnect, especially if it’s not fully seated. I once lost a week of footage because my cable had slipped out overnight—lesson learned!

Method 2: USB-C Charging (For Essential and Go Series)

Arlo Essential and Go cameras use USB-C for charging. This is great because USB-C is widely available and fast. But it also means you can’t remove the battery—so if your camera is mounted outside, you’ll need to either:

• Bring the camera indoors to charge (not ideal if it’s mounted high), or
• Use a long USB-C extension cable (up to 25 feet) to reach an outdoor outlet.

To charge via USB-C:

1. Find the USB-C port (usually on the bottom of the camera).
2. Connect the USB-C end of the cable to the camera.
3. Plug the other end into a power source (wall adapter, power bank, or computer).
4. Wait for the LED to turn green.

Tip: Use a waterproof USB-C cover if your camera is outdoors. Arlo sells one, or you can find third-party options on Amazon. It helps keep moisture out of the port during rain or snow.

Method 3: Solar Panel Charging (For Pro, Ultra, and Go Series)

If you hate dealing with cables or want a hands-off solution, a solar panel is a game-changer. Arlo’s official solar panel (sold separately) connects to your camera via the magnetic charging cable and keeps the battery topped up using sunlight.

To set it up:

1. Mount the solar panel in a sunny spot (south-facing is best in the Northern Hemisphere).
2. Connect the solar panel’s cable to your Arlo camera (or battery).
3. Ensure the panel gets at least 2–3 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Real-world example: I installed a solar panel on my backyard Arlo Pro 3. After a week of sunny days, the battery stayed above 90%. Even on cloudy days, it only dropped to 70%. But during a week of heavy rain, it went down to 40%. So solar is great—but not perfect. I now use it as a supplement, not a sole power source.

Bonus tip: Clean the solar panel every few weeks. Dust, bird droppings, or leaves can reduce efficiency by up to 30%.

Maximizing Battery Life and Charging Efficiency

Charging your Arlo camera isn’t just about plugging it in—it’s about making sure the battery lasts as long as possible between charges. A well-maintained battery can last 6–9 months (depending on usage), while a poorly managed one might need charging every 2 months. Here’s how to get the most out of your battery.

Adjust Camera Settings for Lower Power Use

Your Arlo camera uses power every time it records, sends a notification, or wakes up to check for motion. You can reduce this by tweaking a few settings in the Arlo app:

• Lower motion detection sensitivity: If your camera is near a busy street, set it to “medium” instead of “high” to avoid false triggers.
• Reduce video quality: 1080p uses less power than 4K. If you don’t need ultra-sharp footage, switch to 1080p.
• Use activity zones: Tell the camera to ignore motion in areas like trees or passing cars. Fewer false alerts = less battery drain.
• Enable “Low Power Mode”: Available on some models, this reduces how often the camera checks for motion.

My experience: I turned off audio recording on my backyard camera. That alone cut my battery drain by about 15%. Not a huge number, but every bit helps!

Charge Batteries Properly

Not all charging habits are equal. To keep your battery healthy:

• Don’t leave it on the charger 24/7: Once it hits 100%, unplug it. Overcharging can shorten battery lifespan.
• Charge between 20% and 80%: This “sweet spot” reduces wear and tear. I aim to charge when my battery hits 30%.
• Store batteries at 50%: If you have spare batteries, keep them at half charge when not in use. Full or empty storage can degrade them faster.

Warning: Never use third-party chargers unless they’re specifically designed for Arlo. Cheap USB adapters can damage the battery or cause overheating.

Monitor Battery Health in the Arlo App

The Arlo app shows your battery percentage, but it also tracks health over time. If you notice your battery draining faster than usual (e.g., from 6 months to 3 months), it might be time to replace it. Arlo batteries are rated for about 500 charge cycles—after that, capacity drops significantly.

Alternative Charging Solutions and Accessories

Sometimes, the standard charging methods just don’t cut it. Maybe your camera is too high to reach, or your outlet is too far. That’s where accessories come in. Here are a few smart (and sometimes surprising) ways to keep your Arlo powered.

Extension Cables and Power Banks

For hard-to-reach cameras, a USB extension cable is a lifesaver. Arlo sells a 10-foot magnetic extension, but you can also use a high-quality third-party one (just make sure it’s rated for outdoor use).

For temporary power—like during a storm or outage—a USB power bank works great. I keep a 10,000mAh power bank in my garage. If my camera dies and I can’t get to an outlet, I just plug it in for a few hours. It’s not a permanent fix, but it gets me through emergencies.

Hardwiring Your Arlo Camera

Want to eliminate charging altogether? Hardwire your camera. Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Floodlight models support continuous power via a weatherproof power adapter.

1. Run a power cable from an outdoor outlet to your camera (use conduit for protection).
2. Connect the Arlo power adapter to the cable.
3. Plug the magnetic end into your camera.

Note: This only works if your camera is within 30 feet of the outlet. Also, make sure the cable is rated for outdoor use—indoor cables can degrade in the sun or rain.

Third-Party Solar Panels (Yes, They Exist!)

Arlo’s official solar panel works well, but it’s not the only option. Some third-party panels (like those from SunJack or Anker) are compatible with Arlo cameras and offer higher wattage. Just ensure they output 5V/2A and have a magnetic USB tip.

Caution: Not all third-party panels are waterproof or durable. Read reviews carefully before buying.

Charging Troubleshooting: When Things Go Wrong

Even the best setups have hiccups. Here’s what to do when your Arlo camera won’t charge—or charges too slowly.

Common Charging Problems and Fixes

• Camera not charging: Check the magnetic connection. Wiggle the cable—if the LED flickers, it’s loose. Clean the port with a dry cloth to remove dirt or moisture.
• Battery not holding charge: Try a different battery or charger. If the problem persists, the battery may be dead and need replacement.
• Slow charging: Use a higher-output USB adapter (2.4A or higher). Cheap phone chargers often output only 1A, which is too slow for Arlo.
• Solar panel not working: Check for shading. Even a small shadow (like from a tree branch) can reduce output by 50%. Reposition the panel if needed.

When to Contact Arlo Support

If you’ve tried everything and your camera still won’t charge, it might be a hardware issue. Arlo offers a 1-year warranty on most products, and their support team is usually helpful. Have your model number and purchase date ready when you call.

Pro tip: Take a video of the charging process (LED behavior, cable connection) and send it to support. It helps them diagnose the issue faster.

Arlo Charging Data Table: Quick Reference

Arlo Model	Battery Type	Charging Method	Avg. Battery Life	Supports Solar?	Hardwire Option?
Arlo Pro 3	Removable Li-ion	Magnetic cable, solar, hardwire	6–9 months	Yes	Yes
Arlo Ultra 2	Removable Li-ion	Magnetic cable, solar, hardwire	6–9 months	Yes	Yes
Arlo Essential (Wire-Free)	Built-in Li-ion	USB-C only	3–6 months	No	No
Arlo Go	Built-in Li-ion	USB-C, solar	2–3 months	Yes	No
Arlo Floodlight	Built-in Li-ion	USB-C, hardwire	6–12 months	No	Yes

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Arlo Camera Running Smoothly

Charging your Arlo camera doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can keep your security system running 24/7—without constant battery anxiety. Whether you go with the simplicity of USB-C, the flexibility of removable batteries, or the freedom of solar power, the key is to choose a method that fits your home and lifestyle.

Remember: regular maintenance beats emergency fixes. Check your battery levels weekly, clean your solar panels, and adjust settings to reduce power use. And if you’re ever in doubt, the Arlo app is your best friend—it’ll send you alerts when the battery gets low, so you never get caught off guard.

At the end of the day, your Arlo camera is only as good as its power source. So take the time to set up a charging system that works. Because when the power stays on, your peace of mind stays on too.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you charge your Arlo camera?

Most Arlo cameras use rechargeable batteries that can be charged using the included USB cable and a power adapter. Simply remove the battery, connect it to the cable, and plug it into a power source until fully charged.

Can I charge my Arlo camera while it’s mounted?

Yes, some Arlo models support continuous charging via a weather-resistant outdoor power adapter or solar panel (sold separately). This allows you to keep the camera powered without removing the battery.

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

Charging time varies by model but typically takes 2–4 hours for a full charge using the standard USB cable. Fast-charging accessories may reduce this time slightly.

What type of charger does an Arlo camera need?

Arlo cameras come with a USB charging cable compatible with standard 5V/2A power adapters. For faster charging, use the Arlo camera charging station (available for select models).

Is there a solar option to charge Arlo cameras?

Yes, Arlo offers solar panels designed specifically for select wireless cameras. These provide trickle charging to extend battery life in sunny locations.

Can I use a third-party charger for my Arlo camera?

While possible, Arlo recommends using their certified chargers to avoid damaging the battery. Third-party USB cables/adapters must meet the 5V/2A output requirement for safe charging.