How Many Batteries Does an Arlo Camera Hold Find Out Here

Most Arlo cameras use either 1 or 2 rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, depending on the model, with popular versions like the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 requiring two batteries for extended life and performance. Battery capacity ranges from 2,400mAh to 4,800mAh, offering weeks of use per charge and easy swap-out convenience for continuous surveillance.

Key Takeaways

• Most Arlo cameras use 2 CR123A batteries for reliable, long-lasting power.
• Check your model’s manual to confirm exact battery type and count.
• Battery life lasts 3–6 months with typical usage and motion alerts.
• Rechargeable batteries aren’t supported—use high-quality lithium for best results.
• Low-battery alerts help avoid gaps in surveillance—replace promptly when notified.
• Extreme temperatures drain batteries faster—optimize placement for longer lifespan.

Understanding Arlo Camera Battery Basics

Have you ever set up a security camera, only to find it dead a few weeks later because you forgot to check the batteries? It’s frustrating, right? That’s why understanding how many batteries an Arlo camera holds is crucial for anyone investing in home security. Arlo cameras are known for their sleek design, smart features, and wireless convenience, but their battery life and power requirements can make or break your experience. Whether you’re monitoring your front porch, keeping an eye on the kids in the backyard, or securing your vacation home, knowing the battery setup helps you plan better and avoid those dreaded “low battery” alerts at the worst possible time.

Arlo offers several camera models, each with its own battery configuration. Some use disposable batteries, while others rely on rechargeable ones. The number of batteries, their type, and how long they last depend on the model, usage, and environmental factors. For example, if your camera records constantly in a high-traffic area, it’ll drain batteries faster than one that only activates when motion is detected. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Arlo camera batteries—from how many they hold to how to maximize their lifespan. Think of this as your go-to resource for making your Arlo setup as hassle-free as possible.

How Many Batteries Does an Arlo Camera Hold by Model?

One of the most common questions people ask is, “How many batteries does an Arlo camera hold?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different Arlo models use different battery types and quantities. Let’s dive into the specifics for each major model, so you know exactly what to expect.

Arlo Pro Series (Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5)

The Arlo Pro lineup is one of the most popular, and for good reason. These cameras are weather-resistant, offer high-definition video, and have advanced motion detection. But here’s the key: the Arlo Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Pro 5 all use a single rechargeable lithium-ion battery. That’s right—just one. The battery is custom-designed by Arlo and fits snugly inside the camera’s housing.

• Pro 3 and Pro 4: These models introduced a slightly upgraded battery with higher capacity (4800 mAh vs. 3200 mAh in older models), meaning longer life between charges.
• Pro 5: The latest in the series, it uses a 5200 mAh battery and supports USB-C charging, making recharging faster and more convenient.

Pro Tip: If you’re using multiple Arlo Pro cameras, consider buying spare batteries. Swapping them out when one runs low keeps your system running 24/7 without downtime.

Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2

The Arlo Ultra series is the flagship line, offering 4K video quality and color night vision. Like the Pro series, the Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2 use a single rechargeable lithium-ion battery. However, the battery is larger—6500 mAh—to support the power-hungry 4K sensor and advanced features.

• The Ultra’s battery lasts longer than the Pro series, especially in moderate climates.
• It also supports fast charging via USB-C, so a dead battery doesn’t mean a long wait.

One thing to note: the Ultra’s battery is not compatible with Pro models. So if you’re mixing systems, don’t expect to swap batteries between them.

Arlo Go and Go 2 (LTE Cameras)

The Arlo Go series is designed for remote locations without Wi-Fi, using a cellular connection (LTE) instead. These models are a bit different. The Arlo Go and Go 2 use a single rechargeable battery, but it’s a larger 6000 mAh unit to power both the camera and the cellular radio.

• The Go 2 also supports solar charging, which is a game-changer for off-grid setups.
• Because it’s constantly sending data over LTE, battery life can vary widely—anywhere from 2 to 6 months, depending on usage and signal strength.

Real-World Example: A friend of mine installed an Arlo Go 2 at his cabin in the woods. With solar charging and motion-activated recording, he only needs to check the battery once a year. Talk about low maintenance!

Arlo Essential (Indoor and Outdoor)

The Arlo Essential line is more budget-friendly and designed for simpler setups. The Arlo Essential Indoor uses two AA batteries, which is a big departure from the rechargeable models. The outdoor version, however, uses a single rechargeable battery similar to the Pro series.

• The indoor camera’s AA battery setup is great for renters or those who don’t want to deal with charging.
• But keep in mind: AA batteries drain faster, especially in cold weather. You might need to replace them every 2-3 months.

Tip: If you’re using the indoor Essential camera, invest in high-quality lithium AA batteries. They last longer and perform better in temperature extremes.

Arlo Wire-Free (Discontinued but Still in Use)

The original Arlo Wire-Free cameras (pre-Pro) used four CR123A lithium batteries. These are non-rechargeable and can last up to 6 months under normal use. While these models are discontinued, many people still use them, so it’s worth mentioning.

• CR123A batteries are more expensive than AA but offer better performance in cold climates.
• They’re also harder to find in stores, so buying in bulk online is a smart move.

Battery Life: How Long Do Arlo Cameras Really Last?

Now that we’ve covered how many batteries an Arlo camera holds, let’s talk about how long those batteries actually last. Battery life isn’t just about capacity—it’s influenced by usage, environment, and settings. Think of it like your phone: if you’re streaming video all day, the battery drains fast. If you’re just checking the time, it lasts much longer.

Factors That Affect Battery Life

Here are the top things that impact how long your Arlo camera’s batteries last:

• Motion Detection Frequency: If your camera is in a busy area (like a front door with frequent visitors), it records more often, draining the battery faster.
• Video Quality: 4K recording (Arlo Ultra) uses more power than 1080p (Arlo Pro). Lowering the resolution can extend battery life.
• Night Vision Mode: Infrared LEDs for night vision consume extra power. Cameras in dark areas will drain faster.
• Temperature: Cold weather is the enemy of batteries. Lithium-ion batteries lose capacity in freezing temps. If your camera is outside in winter, expect shorter life.
• Wi-Fi Signal Strength: A weak signal forces the camera to work harder to maintain a connection, using more power.

Realistic Battery Life Estimates

Based on Arlo’s official data and user reports, here’s what you can expect:

• Arlo Pro 4: 3-6 months (with moderate use, 10-20 recordings per day)
• Arlo Ultra 2: 4-8 months (with 4K off and motion zones optimized)
• Arlo Go 2: 2-6 months (depends heavily on LTE usage and solar charging)
• Arlo Essential Indoor: 2-4 months (with AA lithium batteries)
• Arlo Wire-Free (CR123A): Up to 6 months (in ideal conditions)

Personal Experience: I have an Arlo Pro 3 in my backyard. With two kids playing and the dog running around, it records about 30 times a day. I get about 4 months on a single charge. When winter hits, it drops to 3 months. It’s not perfect, but it’s manageable with a spare battery.

How to Check Battery Status

Arlo’s app makes it easy to monitor battery levels. You’ll get a notification when a camera drops below 20%, but it’s good to check manually too. Here’s how:

1. Open the Arlo app.
2. Tap the camera you want to check.
3. Look for the battery icon in the top-right corner.
4. For detailed info, go to Settings > My Devices > [Camera Name] > Battery.

The app also shows “Battery Health,” which tells you if the battery is degrading over time. If it’s below 80%, consider replacing it.

Charging and Replacing Arlo Camera Batteries

Knowing how many batteries an Arlo camera holds is just the start. To keep your cameras running smoothly, you need to understand how to charge and replace them. Let’s break it down.

Charging Rechargeable Batteries

Most Arlo cameras with rechargeable batteries use a magnetic charging cable (except the Pro 5, which has USB-C). Here’s how it works:

• Step 1: Remove the battery from the camera. On Pro and Ultra models, there’s a small latch on the side. Slide it open and pull the battery out.
• Step 2: Connect the magnetic charger to the battery. The magnets make it easy—just snap it on.
• Step 3: Plug the other end into a wall outlet or USB port. A red light means it’s charging; green means it’s full.

Tip: The Pro 5’s USB-C port means you can charge the battery while it’s still in the camera. No need to remove it—just plug in a USB-C cable.

Replacing Disposable Batteries

For the Arlo Essential Indoor (AA) and old Wire-Free (CR123A) models, you’ll need to replace batteries manually. Here’s how:

• Arlo Essential Indoor: Open the back panel, remove the old AA batteries, and insert new ones. Make sure they’re inserted in the correct direction (the camera has a diagram inside).
• Arlo Wire-Free: Twist the camera’s base to open it. Remove the four CR123A batteries and replace them. These batteries are smaller and more expensive, so buy them in packs of 12 or 24.

Warning: Never mix old and new batteries. It can cause leaks or poor performance.

Using Spare Batteries

One of the best ways to avoid downtime is to keep spare batteries charged and ready. Here’s a simple system:

1. Buy 1-2 extra batteries for each camera.
2. Label them (e.g., “Front Door – Spare 1”).
3. When a camera’s battery hits 20%, swap it out with a fully charged spare.
4. Charge the dead battery and store it for next time.

This is especially useful if you have cameras in hard-to-reach places (like high up on a wall).

Solar Charging (Arlo Go 2 and Ultra 2)

The Arlo Go 2 and Ultra 2 can use solar panels to keep batteries charged. The Arlo Solar Panel (sold separately) plugs into the camera and provides continuous power. It’s not a full replacement for batteries, but it can extend life significantly—especially in sunny areas.

Real-World Example: A neighbor installed an Arlo Go 2 with a solar panel on his barn. Even in winter, the battery stays above 70%. He hasn’t charged it manually in over a year.

Maximizing Arlo Camera Battery Life: Tips and Tricks

Want to make your Arlo camera’s batteries last longer? You’re not alone. Here are some practical tips to squeeze every last drop of power out of your batteries.

Optimize Motion Detection Settings

Motion detection is a battery killer. But you can tweak settings to reduce unnecessary recordings:

• Use Activity Zones: Tell the camera to ignore certain areas (like trees or busy streets). This cuts down on false alarms and recordings.
• Adjust Sensitivity: Lower the sensitivity so small animals or leaves don’t trigger the camera.
• Schedule Recording Times: If you only need the camera at night, set it to record from dusk to dawn.

Example: My front door camera used to record every time the wind blew the neighbor’s trash can. After setting up an activity zone to ignore the sidewalk, recordings dropped by 60%.

Lower Video Quality

4K video looks amazing, but it uses more power. If you don’t need ultra-high resolution, switch to 1080p or even 720p. You’ll still get clear footage, but the battery will last longer.

Turn Off Night Vision (If Possible)

Infrared LEDs for night vision consume extra power. If your camera is in a well-lit area (like under a porch light), you can turn off night vision or set it to “Auto” so it only activates in complete darkness.

Keep Cameras in Warm Areas

Batteries hate cold. If you can, install cameras under eaves, awnings, or other sheltered spots. This protects them from snow, rain, and freezing temps. For outdoor cameras, consider using the Arlo Outdoor Mount with a built-in sunshade.

Use Wi-Fi Extenders

A weak Wi-Fi signal forces the camera to work harder. If your camera is far from the router, add a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system. A strong signal means less power used for data transmission.

Regular Maintenance

Clean the camera lens regularly. A dirty lens can cause the camera to record more often (due to poor image quality). Also, check for firmware updates—Arlo sometimes releases updates that improve battery efficiency.

Battery Comparison and Data Table

To help you compare, here’s a quick look at the battery specs for major Arlo models:

Model	Number of Batteries	Battery Type	Battery Capacity (mAh)	Charging Method	Estimated Life (Months)
Arlo Pro 4	1	Rechargeable Li-ion	4800	Magnetic cable	3-6
Arlo Ultra 2	1	Rechargeable Li-ion	6500	Magnetic cable	4-8
Arlo Go 2	1	Rechargeable Li-ion	6000	Magnetic cable + solar	2-6
Arlo Essential Indoor	2	AA (disposable)	N/A	Replace manually	2-4
Arlo Essential Outdoor	1	Rechargeable Li-ion	4800	Magnetic cable	3-6
Arlo Wire-Free (old)	4	CR123A (disposable)	N/A	Replace manually	Up to 6

This table makes it easy to see which model fits your needs. If you want the longest life with minimal maintenance, the Ultra 2 or Go 2 with solar is a great choice. If you prefer disposable batteries (or have a tight budget), the Essential Indoor might be better.

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Arlo Camera Batteries

So, how many batteries does an Arlo camera hold? As we’ve seen, it varies—but now you know exactly what to expect for each model. Whether it’s one rechargeable battery for the Pro series or four CR123A batteries for the old Wire-Free, understanding the setup helps you plan for the long term.

The key takeaway? Battery life is manageable with the right strategies. Use activity zones, lower video quality when possible, and keep spare batteries ready. If you’re in a remote area, consider solar charging. And don’t forget to check the battery status in the app—it’s your best tool for avoiding surprises.

At the end of the day, Arlo cameras are a fantastic investment for home security. They’re easy to install, offer great features, and with a little attention to battery care, they’ll keep your home safe for years. Just remember: a little maintenance goes a long way. Happy monitoring!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many batteries does an Arlo camera hold?

Most Arlo cameras, including the Arlo Pro and Ultra models, use **two rechargeable 3.7V lithium-ion batteries** per camera. This dual-battery design helps extend usage time between charges.

Can I use one battery instead of two in my Arlo camera?

No, Arlo cameras require both batteries to function properly. Using only one battery will prevent the camera from powering on or recording, as the system is designed for dual-battery operation.

Do all Arlo camera models use the same number of batteries?

Most Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Essential models use two batteries, but older versions like the original Arlo (VMC3030) use four CR123A non-rechargeable batteries. Always check your model’s manual to confirm.

How long do the batteries last in an Arlo camera?

On average, Arlo camera batteries last **3–6 months**, depending on usage, motion detection frequency, and environmental conditions. Frequent live streaming or 4K recording may shorten battery life.

Are the batteries in Arlo cameras replaceable?

Yes, the rechargeable batteries in most Arlo models are user-replaceable. You can purchase spare batteries directly from Arlo or third-party vendors to minimize downtime.

Does the Arlo battery count affect video quality or performance?

The number of batteries doesn’t directly impact video quality, but low battery levels may trigger power-saving modes, reducing recording resolution or disabling features like night vision temporarily.