How Long Is the Power Cable for Arlo Pro Camera Revealed

The Arlo Pro camera comes with a 6-foot (1.8-meter) power cable, providing reliable wired power for continuous operation. This length is ideal for most indoor and outdoor setups, though extension cables may be needed for distant outlets. No more guesswork—just plug in and protect what matters.

Key Takeaways

• Standard cable length: Arlo Pro includes a 6-foot (1.8m) power cable.
• Extension options: Use a 10-foot or 20-foot extension for flexible setup.
• Weatherproof design: Cables are rated for safe outdoor use and durability.
• No battery needed: Continuous power eliminates frequent battery changes.
• Check compatibility: Ensure extensions match Arlo’s weatherproof connectors.
• Ideal placement: Plan camera location within cable reach for seamless installation.

How Long Is the Power Cable for Arlo Pro Camera Revealed

Let’s be honest—setting up a security camera system can feel like a puzzle. You’ve got the camera, the mount, the Wi-Fi, and then… the cable. One of the most common questions I get from friends, family, and fellow DIY security enthusiasts is: How long is the power cable for the Arlo Pro camera? It’s a simple question, but the answer can make or break your setup. I remember my first Arlo Pro installation: I was all excited, had the camera mounted on the side of the house, only to realize the power cable didn’t reach the outlet. Cue the frustration. After a few trial runs, extension cords, and even a temporary outlet relocation (yes, I called an electrician), I finally cracked the code. And today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned so you don’t have to go through the same hassle.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the power cable specs for Arlo Pro cameras, including the original Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2, and Arlo Pro 3. We’ll cover the standard cable length, what happens when you need more reach, and how to extend your setup without sacrificing performance or safety. Whether you’re installing a single camera or a full system around your home, this post will help you plan your power strategy from the start. No more surprises, no more extension cord spaghetti—just clear, practical advice to get your Arlo Pro powered up and ready to protect your home.

Understanding the Standard Power Cable Length for Arlo Pro Cameras

What’s Included in the Box?

When you unbox your Arlo Pro camera (whether it’s the original, Pro 2, or Pro 3), you’ll find a few key components: the camera, a magnetic mount, a charging cable, and—most importantly—the power adapter with a 6-foot (1.8-meter) cable. That’s the standard length for all Arlo Pro models. The adapter itself is compact, usually around 2 inches long, with a thin, flexible cord that connects to the camera via a proprietary magnetic charging port. This design is great for weather resistance and easy detachment, but the 6-foot reach can be limiting depending on your home layout.

For example, I installed one of my Arlo Pro 2 units on a second-floor balcony. The nearest outdoor outlet was just under 7 feet away. At first glance, it seemed like a perfect fit—until I realized the cable had to stretch diagonally from the camera to the outlet, losing about a foot in effective reach due to the angle and slack. I ended up needing a short extension, which we’ll talk about later. The takeaway? Always measure the actual distance from your camera location to the nearest power source, not just the straight-line distance.

Why 6 Feet? The Design Trade-Off

So why did Arlo choose 6 feet? It’s a balance between convenience and cost. A longer cable would mean higher material costs, more bulk in the box, and potentially more tangling. Six feet is enough for most standard installations—like mounting a camera near a porch light or garage outlet. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Arlo knows this, which is why they’ve made the system modular. The magnetic connection allows you to use third-party cables or adapters, giving you flexibility when the standard length falls short.

One thing to note: the cable is not interchangeable with other Arlo models. The Arlo Ultra and Arlo Essential use different connectors and voltage requirements. So if you’re mixing systems, don’t assume the cables are compatible. Stick to Arlo Pro-specific accessories to avoid damaging your camera or voiding the warranty.

When the 6-Foot Cable Isn’t Enough: Real-World Scenarios

Long Driveways and Backyard Setups

Let’s say you want to monitor your backyard gate, which is 20 feet from the nearest outdoor outlet. The standard 6-foot cable won’t cut it. This is a common scenario for homeowners with large yards or rural properties. I helped a neighbor install an Arlo Pro 3 at the back of his property, and we had to run a cable from the house, under the deck, and along the fence line. We used a 16-gauge outdoor-rated extension cord (rated for 15 amps) to bridge the gap. The key was choosing a cord that could handle the power draw without overheating or voltage drop.

Tip: For distances over 10 feet, consider using a weatherproof outdoor extension cord with a built-in GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) for safety. Avoid cheap indoor cords—they’re not rated for moisture, UV exposure, or temperature swings, which can lead to insulation breakdown and fire hazards.

Multi-Camera Installations and Cable Management

If you’re setting up multiple Arlo Pro cameras, the 6-foot cable becomes even more critical. I once tried to install four cameras around my house using only the included cables. Two were fine, but the other two required creative routing. One had to stretch over a window sill (not ideal for security), and another needed to snake through a bush to reach an outlet. The result? Ugly cable clutter and potential tripping hazards.

The solution? Plan your camera locations based on outlet proximity. Use a power strip or outdoor-rated surge protector near the main outlet to connect multiple cameras. This reduces cable sprawl and makes future maintenance easier. For example, you can plug in a 10-foot extension cord into the surge protector, then split it with a Y-adapter to power two cameras. Just make sure the total amperage doesn’t exceed the surge protector’s rating.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Outlet Access

Another common issue: your best camera spot is outdoors, but the nearest outlet is indoors. The 6-foot cable might reach, but running it through a window or door isn’t secure. I’ve seen people drill small holes in window frames—which works, but it’s not ideal for renters or historic homes. Instead, consider installing an outdoor outlet (with a weatherproof cover) near your camera location. It’s a one-time investment that pays off in flexibility and safety.

How to Extend Your Arlo Pro Power Cable (Safely and Effectively)

Using Extension Cords: What to Look For

When extending the Arlo Pro power cable, not all extension cords are created equal. Here’s what I recommend:

• Outdoor-rated (SJTW or SJTOW): Look for cords labeled for outdoor use. They have thicker insulation and UV-resistant jackets.
• 14-gauge or 16-gauge wire: Thicker wires (lower gauge number) reduce voltage drop over long distances. For runs under 25 feet, 16-gauge is fine. For longer runs, go with 14-gauge.
• GFCI protection: Essential for outdoor installations. It cuts power if it detects a ground fault, preventing shocks or fires.
• Weatherproof connectors: Choose cords with sealed plugs and sockets to prevent moisture damage.

I used a 25-foot 16-gauge outdoor extension cord for my backyard camera. It’s been running for over a year with no issues. Just remember: the longer the cord, the more voltage drop you’ll experience. For most Arlo Pro setups, a 25-foot extension is the sweet spot—long enough for most homes, short enough to avoid performance issues.

Arlo-Branded Accessories: The 10-Foot Cable

Arlo offers an official 10-foot (3-meter) power cable (sold separately) for Arlo Pro and Pro 2 cameras. It’s the same design as the standard cable—magnetic connector, weather-resistant jacket—but gives you 4 extra feet of reach. I bought one for my garage camera, and it worked perfectly. The cable is flexible, doesn’t kink, and holds the magnetic connection securely.

Pros: No compatibility issues, seamless integration with your Arlo system. Cons: It’s pricier than a generic extension cord (around $25–$30), and it’s still not long enough for very large properties. But for most homeowners, it’s a worthwhile upgrade.

DIY Solutions: Splitting, Splicing, and Power Distribution

For advanced users, you can get creative with power distribution. For example:

• Y-splitter cables: These let you power two Arlo Pro cameras from one outlet. I used one to run a front and back camera from a single outdoor socket. Just ensure the outlet can handle the combined load (Arlo Pro cameras draw about 2.5 amps each).
• Power over Ethernet (PoE) adapters: If you’re tech-savvy, you can convert the Arlo Pro to run on PoE using a third-party adapter. This lets you run power and data over a single Ethernet cable, which can be much longer than standard power cords. Note: This isn’t officially supported by Arlo, so it may void your warranty.

Warning: Avoid splicing or modifying the original Arlo cable. It’s not designed for field repairs, and doing so could damage the camera or create a fire hazard.

Power Cable Specifications and Technical Details

Voltage, Amperage, and Power Requirements

The Arlo Pro camera runs on 5V DC power, drawing about 2.5 amps during normal operation. The included power adapter converts standard 120V AC household current to 5V DC. The 6-foot cable has a 20AWG (American Wire Gauge) wire, which is sufficient for short runs but can cause voltage drop over longer distances.

Here’s a quick table comparing key specs:

Model	Power Input	Included Cable Length	Max Recommended Extension	Notes
Arlo Pro	5V, 2.5A	6 ft (1.8 m)	25 ft (7.6 m)	Uses magnetic connector; compatible with Pro 2 cable
Arlo Pro 2	5V, 2.5A	6 ft (1.8 m)	25 ft (7.6 m)	Same as Pro; supports 10-ft cable
Arlo Pro 3	5V, 2.5A	6 ft (1.8 m)	25 ft (7.6 m)	Requires Pro 3-specific cable (not backward compatible)

Note: The max recommended extension is based on voltage drop and safety guidelines. Beyond 25 feet, you risk underpowering the camera, which can cause erratic behavior or shutdowns.

Weather Resistance and Durability

The Arlo Pro power cable is designed for outdoor use. It has a rubberized jacket that resists UV rays, moisture, and temperature extremes (from -20°F to 140°F). However, the magnetic connector is the weak point. While it’s sealed against rain, dust and debris can accumulate over time, causing connection issues. I recommend cleaning the connector every few months with a dry cloth or compressed air.

Pro tip: Use a cable sleeve or conduit to protect the cable from physical damage (like lawn mowers or rodents). You can buy split-loom tubing at any hardware store.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Up Your Arlo Pro Power Cable

Using Indoor Extension Cords

This is the #1 mistake I see. Indoor cords aren’t rated for outdoor use. They can degrade quickly, leading to exposed wires, short circuits, or fire hazards. Always check the label: look for “SJTW” or “outdoor rated” before buying.

Overloading Outlets and Power Strips

Arlo Pro cameras aren’t power-hungry, but if you’re running multiple cameras, lights, or other devices on the same circuit, you can trip a breaker. I once plugged three Arlo Pro 2s into a single outdoor outlet with a surge protector. It worked fine—until I added a string of holiday lights. The circuit tripped, and I lost power to all the cameras. Lesson learned: check your circuit’s amperage rating and don’t exceed 80% of its capacity.

Ignoring Cable Tension and Slack

The magnetic connector is designed to detach under tension, which is great for preventing damage if someone trips on the cable. But if there’s too much slack, the cable can sway in the wind, causing wear on the connector. I use cable clips or zip ties to secure the cable every 12–18 inches. Just don’t pull it too tight—leave a little wiggle room for the magnetic breakaway.

Forgetting About Future Maintenance

Think long-term. If you run a cable under a deck or behind a bush, it might be hard to access later. I once had to dismantle a whole section of my deck to replace a frayed cable. Now, I use removable cable clips and label each cable with a waterproof tag. It saves hours of troubleshooting down the line.

Final Thoughts: Planning Your Arlo Pro Power Strategy

So, how long is the power cable for the Arlo Pro camera? The answer is 6 feet—but that’s just the starting point. Whether you’re installing one camera or a dozen, the key is planning. Measure your distances, check your outlets, and don’t be afraid to invest in quality extensions or accessories. The Arlo Pro is a fantastic system, but its performance depends on a reliable power setup.

From my experience, the best approach is to map out your camera locations first, then work backward to the nearest power source. Use the 6-foot cable where it fits, the 10-foot cable for slightly longer runs, and outdoor extension cords for anything beyond that. And remember: safety first. Use weatherproof gear, avoid overloading circuits, and protect your cables from physical damage.

At the end of the day, the power cable is just one piece of the puzzle. But it’s a critical one. With the right setup, your Arlo Pro will keep your home secure—rain or shine, day or night. And that peace of mind? Priceless.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the power cable for Arlo Pro camera?

The standard power cable for the Arlo Pro camera is 6 feet (1.8 meters) long. This length allows flexible indoor or outdoor placement near an outlet.

Can I extend the Arlo Pro power cable for longer reach?

Yes, you can use a UL-certified extension cable to extend the Arlo Pro power cable beyond 6 feet. Ensure the extension supports outdoor use if installed outside.

Is the Arlo Pro power cable waterproof?

The power cable is weather-resistant and designed for outdoor use but isn’t fully submersible. It’s safe for typical rain or snow when properly connected.

What’s the length of the Arlo Pro 2/3/4 power cable?

Most Arlo Pro models (Pro 2, 3, and 4) include a 6-foot power cable. Check your model’s manual to confirm specifics for your device.

Does the Arlo Pro power cable length affect charging time?

No, the 6-foot power cable length doesn’t impact charging speed. Performance depends on the power adapter, not the cable’s length.

Are longer Arlo Pro power cables available for purchase?

Yes, Arlo offers optional 15-foot (4.5-meter) power cables for extended reach. These are sold separately and are ideal for distant outlets.