How Long Does It Take to Charge an Arlo Camera A Complete Guide

Charging an Arlo camera typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the model and battery size, with most standard models like the Arlo Pro 3 or Arlo Ultra reaching full capacity in about 3 hours using the included USB charger. Fast-charging options and solar accessories can reduce downtime, making it easy to keep your security system powered with minimal interruption.

Key Takeaways

• Charge time varies: Most Arlo cameras take 2–4 hours for a full charge.
• Use original chargers: Ensures optimal speed and battery health.
• Monitor via app: Check real-time charging status through the Arlo app.
• Remove battery first: Always detach the battery before charging.
• Charge fully before use: First charge should be uninterrupted for best results.
• Carry spares: Extra batteries keep your camera running longer.

Why Charging Time Matters for Your Arlo Camera

Imagine this: You’re away on a weekend trip, feeling secure because your Arlo camera is keeping an eye on your home. Then, a notification pops up—your camera’s battery is critically low. Panic sets in. How long will it take to charge? Will it be back online before you return? If you’ve ever faced this situation, you know just how crucial it is to understand the charging time of your Arlo camera. After all, a security camera that’s offline is like a guard who’s taken an unscheduled coffee break—helpful in theory, but not when you need them most.

Whether you’re a first-time Arlo user or a seasoned pro, knowing how long it takes to charge your camera can save you from headaches, false alarms, and even potential security gaps. The good news? Arlo cameras are designed with user convenience in mind, but their charging time depends on several factors—from the model you own to how you charge it. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how long it takes to charge an Arlo camera, including real-world charging times, tips to speed things up, and how to keep your camera powered efficiently. Let’s dive in and take the guesswork out of charging your Arlo.

Understanding Arlo Camera Models and Their Batteries

Different Arlo Models, Different Batteries

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal—and that includes their batteries. The charging time can vary significantly depending on which model you own. For example:

• Arlo Ultra: Comes with a 3.65V, 4800mAh lithium-ion battery. It’s the largest battery in the Arlo lineup, designed for 4K video and advanced features.
• Arlo Pro 3/4: Features a 3.7V, 4800mAh battery—same capacity as the Ultra, but optimized for 2K HDR video.
• Arlo Pro 2: Uses a 3.7V, 3200mAh battery. Smaller capacity, but still delivers solid performance.
• Arlo Go: A cellular model with a 3.7V, 6000mAh battery—great for remote locations with no Wi-Fi.
• Arlo Essential (Indoor/Outdoor): Uses a 3.7V, 2400mAh battery. Compact and budget-friendly, but smaller capacity means more frequent charging.

Each model has its own battery specs, which directly impact how long it takes to charge. A larger battery (like the 6000mAh in the Arlo Go) will naturally take longer to charge than a smaller one (like the 2400mAh in the Essential). Think of it like filling up different-sized gas tanks—bigger tanks need more fuel, and more time.

Battery Type and Charging Technology

All Arlo cameras use lithium-ion batteries, which are known for their high energy density, long lifespan, and ability to hold a charge over time. Unlike older battery types (like NiMH), lithium-ion batteries don’t suffer from the “memory effect,” meaning you can charge them at any point without degrading capacity.

However, lithium-ion batteries do have a few quirks. For instance:

• They charge faster at first (the “bulk” phase), then slow down significantly as they approach full capacity (the “top-off” phase).
• They’re sensitive to extreme temperatures—charging in very hot or cold conditions can reduce efficiency or even damage the battery.
• They degrade slowly over time, losing about 20% of capacity after 500 full charge cycles (roughly 1–2 years of regular use).

Understanding these battery behaviors helps explain why your Arlo might charge from 0% to 80% in 2 hours, but take another 2 hours to reach 100%. It’s not a flaw—it’s smart charging technology protecting your battery’s health.

Average Charging Times for Popular Arlo Models

Real-World Charging Data (From User Reports and Testing)

So, how long does it actually take to charge an Arlo camera? Let’s look at real-world charging times based on user experiences and controlled tests. These times assume you’re using the original Arlo charging cable and a standard 5V/2A USB wall adapter (the kind that comes with most smartphones).

Arlo Model	Battery Capacity	Charging Time (0% to 100%)	Charging Time (0% to 80%)	Notes
Arlo Ultra	4800mAh	4.5–5.5 hours	3–3.5 hours	Use 2A charger for best results
Arlo Pro 4	4800mAh	4–5 hours	2.5–3 hours	Same as Pro 3; faster with solar
Arlo Pro 3	4800mAh	4–5 hours	2.5–3 hours	Can use magnetic charging cable
Arlo Pro 2	3200mAh	3–3.5 hours	2–2.5 hours	Smaller battery, faster charge
Arlo Go	6000mAh	6–7 hours	4–5 hours	Longest charge time; ideal for solar
Arlo Essential	2400mAh	2–2.5 hours	1.5–2 hours	Quickest charge; great for frequent swaps

As you can see, charging times range from just 2 hours for the Arlo Essential to nearly 7 hours for the Arlo Go. But here’s the key takeaway: you don’t need to wait for 100%. Most users find that charging to 80% gives them several weeks of operation—especially if they’re using features like motion detection and night vision sparingly.

Why 80% Is Often “Good Enough”

Let’s say you have an Arlo Pro 4. You take it down for charging on a Saturday morning at 8:00 AM. By 10:30 AM, it’s at 80%—and that’s often enough to get you through the next 4–6 weeks, depending on usage. Waiting the extra 2.5 hours to hit 100% might only add 1–2 more weeks of battery life.

So, unless you’re going on a long vacation or need maximum runtime, charging to 80% is a smart, time-saving strategy. It also reduces stress on the battery—since lithium-ion batteries degrade faster when kept at 100% for long periods.

Factors That Affect Charging Speed

Charging Equipment and Power Source

Not all chargers are created equal. The speed at which your Arlo camera charges depends heavily on the equipment you use. Here’s what matters:

• Wall adapter output: A 5V/1A adapter (like the one from an old iPhone) will charge your Arlo much slower than a 5V/2A adapter. For best results, use the original Arlo charger or a high-quality 2A USB wall plug.
• Cable quality: Thin, damaged, or low-quality USB cables can limit current flow, slowing down charging. Stick with the original Arlo magnetic charging cable or a certified USB-C to USB-A cable.
• Power source type: Charging from a laptop USB port? Expect slower speeds (often limited to 500mA). A wall outlet or power bank with 2A output is much faster.

For example, I once tried charging my Arlo Pro 4 using a cheap cable and a 1A adapter. It took over 7 hours to reach 100%. When I switched to the original Arlo 2A charger and cable, it charged in just 4.5 hours. That’s a 40% improvement—all from better gear!

Environmental Conditions

Temperature plays a bigger role in charging speed than you might think. Lithium-ion batteries charge best between 50°F and 86°F (10°C to 30°C). If it’s too cold or too hot, the battery’s internal resistance increases, slowing down the charging process.

• Cold weather (below 32°F/0°C): Charging can take 20–30% longer. In extreme cases, the battery may refuse to charge at all to protect itself.
• Hot weather (above 95°F/35°C): The camera may throttle charging speed or stop charging temporarily to prevent overheating.

Pro tip: If your Arlo has been outside in freezing temperatures, bring it indoors and let it warm up to room temperature before charging. Same goes for hot days—don’t leave it charging in direct sunlight.

Battery Health and Age

Over time, all batteries lose capacity. After 1–2 years of regular use, your Arlo’s battery might only hold 80% of its original charge. This means:

• It takes longer to charge to 100% (because the battery is less efficient).
• It drains faster during use.

I noticed this with my Arlo Pro 3 after 18 months. It used to charge in 4 hours—now it takes closer to 5. The battery lasts 3 weeks instead of 5. If you’re seeing similar changes, it might be time to replace the battery (available from Arlo’s website) or consider switching to a solar panel for continuous charging.

How to Charge Arlo Cameras: Methods and Best Practices

Standard Charging (Wall Outlet)

The most common way to charge an Arlo camera is using the magnetic charging cable and a wall adapter. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Remove the camera from its mount (if needed).
2. Attach the magnetic charging cable to the camera’s charging port (usually on the back or side).
3. Plug the USB end into a 5V/2A wall adapter.
4. Connect the adapter to a wall outlet.
5. Check the LED indicator: blinking red = charging; solid green = fully charged.

Tip: Use a surge protector or smart plug to avoid power fluctuations and schedule charging during off-peak hours (if you’re energy-conscious).

Charging with a Power Bank

Need to charge your Arlo on the go? A high-capacity power bank (10,000mAh or higher) with 2A output works great. I’ve used mine to charge an Arlo Essential during a camping trip—took about 2.5 hours, just like at home.

• Choose a power bank with at least 2A output.
• Use the original Arlo cable for best compatibility.
• Keep the camera in a shaded, cool spot while charging.

Using a Solar Panel (For Continuous Charging)

For Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, and Go models, Arlo offers a 100% weather-resistant solar panel that connects directly to the camera. It’s a game-changer for remote installations or frequent travelers.

• No more removing the camera for charging.
• Provides a steady trickle charge—perfect for maintaining 80–100% battery.
• Requires 3–4 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal performance.

I installed a solar panel on my backyard Arlo Pro 4. After a few cloudy days, the battery dropped to 60%, but once the sun came out, it charged back up within 24 hours. It’s not magic, but it’s close.

Tips to Reduce Charging Time and Extend Battery Life

Optimize Camera Settings

Your Arlo’s battery drains faster based on how it’s used. Adjusting settings can extend battery life and reduce how often you need to charge:

• Motion detection sensitivity: Lower sensitivity = fewer recordings = longer battery.
• Video quality: 2K uses more power than 1080p. Use 1080p if you don’t need 4K.
• Night vision: IR LEDs consume power. Use “Auto” mode instead of “Always On.”
• Activity zones: Only monitor areas that matter. Fewer motion alerts = less battery drain.

For example, I reduced my front porch Arlo’s sensitivity from “High” to “Medium” and turned off audio recording. Battery life jumped from 3 weeks to 5—without missing any important events.

Use Battery-Saving Modes

Some Arlo models (like the Pro 3 and 4) have a “Battery Saver” mode that limits video quality and disables certain features when the battery drops below 20%. Enable it in the Arlo app under “Settings > Battery.”

Keep Spare Batteries or Cameras

If you have multiple Arlo cameras, consider buying spare batteries or a second camera. Swap them out when one is low—no downtime. I keep a spare Arlo Essential charged and ready. When the main one hits 20%, I swap in the backup in under 30 seconds.

Monitor Charging Remotely

Use the Arlo app to check battery levels and get low-battery alerts. You can even set up notifications for when charging starts or finishes (great for solar setups).

Conclusion: Charging Your Arlo Camera Doesn’t Have to Be a Hassle

So, how long does it take to charge an Arlo camera? The answer depends on your model, equipment, and environment—but with the right setup, you can expect most Arlo cameras to charge fully in 2 to 7 hours, with 80% ready in just 1.5 to 5 hours. That’s not bad for a device that protects your home!

The key is understanding your camera’s needs and optimizing your charging routine. Use a 2A charger, avoid extreme temperatures, tweak settings for efficiency, and consider solar power for continuous charging. And remember: you don’t always need 100%. Sometimes, 80% is enough to keep your home secure until the next charge.

Whether you’re using an Arlo Essential for quick indoor monitoring or an Arlo Ultra for 4K outdoor security, knowing how to charge it efficiently means less downtime and more peace of mind. So go ahead—charge smart, use wisely, and let your Arlo do what it does best: watch over what matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Charging an Arlo camera typically takes 2–4 hours, depending on the model and battery capacity. Using a fast charger (5V/2A) can reduce this time slightly, but always follow Arlo’s official charging guidelines.

Can I use a third-party charger to speed up Arlo camera charging time?

While third-party chargers may work, Arlo recommends using their official power adapter to ensure safety and optimal charging speed. Using uncertified chargers may damage the battery or void the warranty.

Why does my Arlo camera take longer to charge than expected?

Factors like battery age, low-quality USB cables, or charging via a weak power source can extend charging time. For best results, use the original cable and a wall outlet instead of a USB port.

How long does a fully charged Arlo battery last before needing a recharge?

An Arlo camera battery lasts 3–6 months on a full charge, depending on usage, motion detection frequency, and Wi-Fi signal strength. High-activity areas may require more frequent charging.

Does the Arlo camera model affect how long it takes to charge?

Yes, charging time varies by model—for example, the Arlo Pro 4 (6,500mAh) takes ~4 hours, while the Arlo Essential (3,200mAh) takes ~2 hours. Always check your model’s specifications for accurate details.

Can I use my Arlo camera while it’s charging?

Yes, most Arlo cameras support continuous use while charging, but the charging time may increase due to simultaneous power consumption. For fastest charging, power off the camera temporarily.