How Many Batteries Are in a Arlo Camera Revealed

Most Arlo cameras use either 1 or 2 rechargeable batteries, depending on the model—such as the single-battery Arlo Pro 4 or the dual-battery Arlo Ultra 2. Battery count directly impacts runtime and convenience, with dual-battery setups offering extended use and hot-swapping for uninterrupted security coverage.

Key Takeaways

• Most Arlo cameras use 2 CR123A batteries for optimal performance and longevity.
• Check your model’s manual to confirm exact battery type and quantity required.
• Rechargeable options exist for select Arlo models—verify compatibility before use.
• Low-battery alerts notify you via the Arlo app to prevent downtime.
• Store spare batteries on hand to ensure uninterrupted camera operation.

How Many Batteries Are in an Arlo Camera? Let’s Set the Record Straight

Ever been halfway through setting up your Arlo security camera—mounting it on the wall, downloading the app—only to realize you don’t have the right batteries? Yeah, me too. It’s one of those small but *super* frustrating details that can turn a seamless home security upgrade into a trip to the store at midnight. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How many batteries are in an Arlo camera?”, you’re not alone. This question pops up more than you’d think, especially when people are trying to compare models, plan for replacements, or just avoid the dreaded “low battery” alert at the worst possible time.

The truth is, the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Arlo offers a wide range of cameras, from the compact Arlo Essential to the high-end Arlo Ultra, and each one handles batteries differently. Some use disposable AA or CR123A batteries, others rely on built-in rechargeable cells, and a few even let you swap batteries mid-surveillance. In this post, we’re going to dive deep—no fluff, no marketing speak—into the nitty-gritty of Arlo camera batteries. Whether you’re a new owner, thinking about upgrading, or just tired of guessing, this guide will help you know exactly what you’re working with and how to keep your cameras powered, reliable, and ready to protect your home.

Understanding Arlo’s Battery-Powered Camera Lineup

Why Battery Power Matters in Home Security

When it comes to wireless home security, battery life isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Unlike wired systems that plug into your home’s electrical grid, battery-powered Arlo cameras give you freedom. You can install them under eaves, in backyards, on fences, or even in detached garages where running a power cable isn’t practical. But that freedom comes with a trade-off: you’re responsible for keeping the batteries charged or replaced.

Imagine this: you’re on vacation, and your camera goes dark because the batteries died. No motion alerts, no video history. That’s the risk of poor battery management. That’s why understanding how many batteries are in your Arlo camera—and how long they last—is crucial for peace of mind.

Which Arlo Cameras Use Batteries?

Not all Arlo cameras are battery-powered, but the majority of their most popular models are. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main battery-dependent cameras:

• Arlo Essential (Indoor & Outdoor): Uses 2 x CR123A lithium batteries
• Arlo Essential XL: Uses 2 x CR123A batteries (same as standard Essential, but longer battery life due to larger capacity)
• Arlo Pro 3: Uses 1 x built-in rechargeable battery (removable)
• Arlo Pro 4: Uses 1 x built-in rechargeable battery (removable)
• Arlo Ultra / Ultra 2: Uses 1 x built-in rechargeable battery (removable)
• Arlo Go 2: Uses 1 x built-in rechargeable battery (LTE model, often paired with solar)
• Arlo Video Doorbell (battery version): Uses 1 x built-in rechargeable battery

Notice a pattern? Most newer Arlo models are moving toward built-in, removable rechargeable batteries. This shift makes charging easier and reduces waste from disposable batteries. But older models and budget-friendly options still rely on standard CR123A or AA batteries, so it’s important to know which category your camera falls into.

Breaking Down Battery Types: Disposable vs. Rechargeable

Disposable Batteries: The CR123A Standard

If you have an Arlo Essential or Essential XL, you’re using CR123A lithium batteries. These are small, cylindrical, and about the size of your pinky finger. They’re not your average AA batteries—they’re high-drain, high-voltage (3V) cells designed for devices that need bursts of power, like security cameras and flashlights.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Each Arlo Essential camera uses two CR123A batteries—not one. That’s a common misconception. Some people assume it’s a single battery, but it’s a dual-battery setup.
• CR123A batteries are expensive compared to AAs. A 4-pack can cost $15–$25, depending on the brand (e.g., Panasonic, Duracell, Energizer).
• They last about 6 to 12 months under normal use (motion detection 5–10 times per day, moderate video recording).
• Temperature affects performance. In freezing winter months, battery life can drop by 30–50%.

Pro tip: Buy CR123A batteries in bulk from reputable sellers (Amazon, B&H, or specialty electronics stores). Avoid knockoffs—they can leak, corrode, or damage your camera. I once used a cheap brand and had a battery leak that left a sticky residue inside the compartment. Took me an hour to clean it with isopropyl alcohol. Not fun.

Rechargeable Batteries: The Future of Arlo

Starting with the Arlo Pro 3, Arlo introduced removable rechargeable batteries. These are lithium-ion cells, similar to what’s in your phone or tablet. Here’s the breakdown:

• Each Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Go 2 camera uses one battery—not two. That’s a big shift from the Essential line.
• The battery is removable, which means you can keep a spare charged and swap it in seconds when the low battery alert pops up.
• Battery life varies:
  • Arlo Pro 3/4: 3–6 months (depending on activity)
  • Arlo Ultra: 3–6 months
  • Arlo Go 2: 2–4 months (LTE uses more power)
• You charge the battery using a USB-C cable (included) or a charging dock (sold separately).

Real-world example: I have two Arlo Pro 4 cameras. I keep a third battery on a charging dock. When one camera hits 20%, I pop out the battery, swap in the charged one, and pop the drained one on the dock. Total downtime? Less than 30 seconds. It’s a game-changer for busy households.

Built-In vs. Removable: What’s the Difference?

Some Arlo models—like the original Arlo Go (first gen)—have built-in, non-removable batteries. You charge the entire camera via USB. That’s fine if you’re near an outlet, but it’s a hassle if your camera is mounted high or in a hard-to-reach spot.

The newer models with removable batteries solve this problem. You don’t have to take the camera down. Just swap the battery. It’s faster, cleaner, and more convenient.

Bottom line: If you value convenience and flexibility, go for a model with a removable battery. If you’re on a budget and don’t mind the occasional climb on a ladder, the Essentials with CR123A batteries work—but you’ll need to plan ahead for replacements.

How Long Do Arlo Camera Batteries Last? Real-World Expectations

Factors That Affect Battery Life

You can’t just look at a spec sheet and assume your Arlo camera will last six months. Battery life depends on several real-world factors:

• Motion detection frequency: The more motion events, the more video recordings, and the faster the battery drains. A camera facing a busy street will die faster than one in a quiet backyard.
• Video quality settings: 4K recording (Ultra) uses more power than 1080p (Essential). If you’re not recording in 4K, turn it off to save juice.
• Night vision usage: Infrared LEDs use power. If your camera is active at night, expect shorter battery life.
• Temperature extremes: Batteries hate heat and cold. In summer, direct sun can overheat the camera. In winter, cold drains lithium batteries quickly.
• Wi-Fi signal strength: A weak connection forces the camera to work harder, using more power. If your camera is far from the base station, consider a Wi-Fi extender.
• LTE usage (Arlo Go 2): Streaming video over cellular data is a battery killer. Use LTE only when Wi-Fi isn’t available.

My experience: I have an Arlo Essential XL facing my front porch. In winter (with snow and low light), it lasted 5 months. In summer (with kids playing outside all day), it lasted only 3.5 months. That’s a 30% difference just from activity and temperature.

How to Extend Battery Life: Practical Tips

Want to squeeze more life out of your Arlo camera batteries? Try these proven strategies:

• Adjust motion sensitivity: Lower the sensitivity in the Arlo app so the camera only records for real threats (like people), not passing cars or animals.
• Use activity zones: Tell the camera to ignore certain areas (e.g., a tree that sways in the wind).
• Schedule recordings: Set the camera to record only during high-risk times (e.g., when you’re not home).
• Use a solar panel: Arlo sells official solar panels for Pro 3/4, Ultra, and Go 2. They keep the battery charged continuously—great for sunny areas.
• Keep the firmware updated: Arlo often releases updates that improve battery efficiency.
• Clean the lens and sensors: Dust or spider webs can trigger false motion alerts, wasting battery.

Bonus tip: If you’re using CR123A batteries, store extras in a cool, dry place. Heat and humidity degrade lithium cells over time.

Replacing and Charging Arlo Camera Batteries: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Replace CR123A Batteries (Arlo Essential)

1. Turn off the camera or remove it from the mount.
2. Locate the battery compartment on the back or bottom.
3. Use the included tool (or a small flathead screwdriver) to open the cover.
4. Remove the two old CR123A batteries. Note the orientation (positive/negative ends).
5. Insert two new CR123A batteries, matching the + and – symbols.
6. Close the cover securely.
7. Reconnect to the Arlo app and check battery status.

Caution: Don’t mix old and new batteries. Always replace both at the same time. Mixing can cause uneven discharge and reduce performance.

How to Swap Rechargeable Batteries (Pro 3/4, Ultra, Go 2)

1. Remove the camera from the mount (if needed).
2. Press the release button on the battery compartment.
3. Slide out the old battery.
4. Insert the charged battery, making sure it clicks into place.
5. Reattach the camera (if removed).
6. Open the Arlo app to confirm the battery level.

Pro tip: Label your spare batteries with the date you charged them. This helps you rotate them properly and avoid using a dead one by mistake.

Charging Your Rechargeable Batteries

• Plug the USB-C cable into the battery (or use a charging dock).
• Connect to a power source (wall adapter, computer, or power bank).
• Charge time: 2–4 hours (from 0% to 100%).
• The battery has a small LED that glows red (charging) or green (fully charged).

Note: You can charge the battery while it’s in the camera, but it’s slower and less convenient. For fast swaps, charge the spare separately.

Arlo Battery Comparison Table: Quick Reference Guide

Arlo Model	Battery Type	Number of Batteries	Avg. Battery Life	Removable?	Charging Method
Arlo Essential	CR123A (disposable)	2	6–12 months	No (replace batteries)	None (replace)
Arlo Essential XL	CR123A (disposable)	2	8–14 months	No (replace batteries)	None (replace)
Arlo Pro 3	Rechargeable Li-ion	1	3–6 months	Yes	USB-C or dock
Arlo Pro 4	Rechargeable Li-ion	1	3–6 months	Yes	USB-C or dock
Arlo Ultra / Ultra 2	Rechargeable Li-ion	1	3–6 months	Yes	USB-C or dock
Arlo Go 2	Rechargeable Li-ion	1	2–4 months	Yes	USB-C or dock
Arlo Video Doorbell (battery)	Rechargeable Li-ion	1	6 months	Yes	USB-C

This table makes it easy to compare models. For example, if you want longer battery life with fewer replacements, the Essential XL is better than the standard Essential. If you want no battery replacements ever, go for a Pro or Ultra model with a rechargeable battery and consider adding a solar panel.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Arlo Camera for Your Needs

So, how many batteries are in an Arlo camera? The answer depends on the model—but now you know the full picture. The Arlo Essential uses two CR123A batteries, while the Pro, Ultra, and Go 2 series use one removable rechargeable battery each. This distinction affects everything from cost (disposable batteries add up) to convenience (swapping vs. replacing) to long-term sustainability.

If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind occasional battery changes, the Essential line is a solid choice. But if you value convenience, reliability, and fewer maintenance hassles, investing in a rechargeable model like the Pro 4 or Ultra is worth every penny. And if you live in a sunny area, pair it with a solar panel—you might never need to charge manually again.

Ultimately, the best Arlo camera is the one that fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re protecting a small apartment, a suburban home, or a remote cabin, understanding battery requirements helps you avoid surprises and keep your security system running smoothly. So the next time someone asks, “How many batteries are in an Arlo camera?”—you’ll not only know the answer, but you’ll be able to explain *why* it matters.

Stay safe, stay powered, and keep your eyes on what matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many batteries are in an Arlo camera?

Most Arlo cameras, like the Arlo Pro and Ultra, use **two rechargeable 3.7V lithium-ion batteries** per camera. This design ensures longer battery life and easier swaps when one set drains.

Do all Arlo cameras require the same number of batteries?

No, some models like the Arlo Go (LTE) use a single integrated battery, while most others (e.g., Pro 3, Ultra 2) require two. Always check your model’s manual for specifics.

Can I use regular AA batteries in my Arlo camera?

No, Arlo cameras require proprietary **rechargeable lithium-ion batteries** (sold separately or included with purchase). Using AA batteries may damage the camera or void the warranty.

How long do the batteries in an Arlo camera last?

Arlo camera batteries typically last 3–6 months, depending on usage, settings, and environmental factors. Motion detection frequency and video resolution impact battery life the most.

Are the batteries in Arlo cameras replaceable?

Yes, most Arlo models feature user-replaceable batteries. You can buy spare batteries or a charging station to keep backups ready for quick swaps.

How many batteries does an Arlo Pro 4 need?

The Arlo Pro 4 uses **two 3.7V rechargeable batteries**, just like its predecessors. This ensures compatibility with existing Arlo charging stations and battery packs.