How Many Batteries Does an Arlo Camera Take Find Out Here

Most Arlo cameras use either 2 or 4 CR123A lithium batteries, depending on the model—such as the 2-battery Arlo Pro 4 and the 4-battery Arlo Ultra 2. Battery life ranges from 3 to 6 months with regular use, making it easy to maintain reliable home security without constant replacements.

Key Takeaways

• Most Arlo cameras use 2 CR123A batteries for reliable, long-lasting performance.
• Check your model’s manual to confirm exact battery type and quantity.
• Rechargeable Arlo models exist—eliminate disposable battery needs entirely.
• Battery life varies by usage, with 3–6 months typical for moderate use.
• Always use high-quality batteries to avoid leaks and extend lifespan.
• Low-battery alerts in the app help you stay ahead of replacements.
• Solar panels can reduce battery swaps for compatible Arlo cameras.

Why Battery Life Matters in Your Arlo Camera Setup

You’ve just installed your Arlo camera, mounted it in the perfect spot overlooking your front porch, and you’re feeling pretty good about your home security upgrade. Then, a few weeks later, the low battery alert pops up on your phone. You groan, grab your ladder, and head outside to replace the batteries—again. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions people ask when buying or using Arlo cameras is: How many batteries does an Arlo camera take?

It’s a simple question, but the answer isn’t always straightforward. The number of batteries your Arlo camera needs depends on the model you own, the environment it’s in, and how much activity it records. Whether you’re a new Arlo user or considering switching from another brand, understanding battery requirements can save you time, money, and frustration. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from the exact battery count per model to tips for extending battery life and making your setup as hassle-free as possible.

Arlo Camera Models and Their Battery Requirements

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal—especially when it comes to batteries. Arlo offers a wide range of models, from basic indoor units to rugged, weatherproof outdoor cameras with advanced features like night vision, motion detection, and 4K video. Each model has different power needs, and knowing which one you have (or are considering) is the first step to answering the question: How many batteries does an Arlo camera take?

Arlo Pro Series: The 2-Battery Standard

The Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2, Arlo Pro 3, and Arlo Pro 4 all use **two rechargeable 3.7V lithium-ion batteries** per camera. These are the workhorses of the Arlo lineup, designed for outdoor use with excellent night vision, two-way audio, and weather resistance. The batteries are proprietary, meaning you can’t just swap in any old AA or AAA—they’re custom-made for Arlo and must be charged using the Arlo charging station or a compatible dock.

For example, I have two Arlo Pro 3 cameras monitoring my backyard. Each uses two batteries, and I keep two spares fully charged in the charging dock. That way, when one set runs low, I can swap them out in under a minute. It’s a system that’s saved me from missing important footage during battery swaps.

Arlo Essential Series: Built-In Batteries (But Still Replaceable)

The Arlo Essential, Essential XL, and Essential Indoor cameras come with **integrated rechargeable batteries**. While they don’t require you to insert separate batteries like the Pro series, they still rely on battery power—and you’ll need to charge them periodically.

The Essential models use a single internal lithium-ion cell. You charge them via USB-C or a charging dock. The Essential XL has a larger battery capacity, which means longer life between charges—up to six months under normal conditions, compared to three to four months for the standard Essential. This is a great option if you hate the idea of swapping out tiny batteries every few weeks.

Arlo Go and Arlo Go 2: For Remote or Cellular Use

The Arlo Go and Arlo Go 2 are designed for off-grid or remote locations where Wi-Fi isn’t available. They connect via 4G LTE and use a **single rechargeable lithium-ion battery** (3.7V, 6500mAh). The Go 2 improves on the original with better battery efficiency and faster charging.

Because they’re often used in sheds, barns, or rural properties, battery life is even more critical. The Go 2 can last up to three months on a single charge with moderate activity. But if you’re recording frequently or in a high-traffic area, you might need to charge every six weeks. One user I spoke with, who uses an Arlo Go 2 to monitor a vacation cabin, charges it every two months and uses a solar panel to keep it topped up.

Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2: High Performance, High Power Needs

The premium Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2 models offer 4K video, color night vision, and advanced AI detection. To power all that tech, each camera uses **two rechargeable 3.7V lithium-ion batteries**—just like the Pro series. However, due to the higher processing demands and 4K recording, the Ultra series typically drains batteries faster than the Pro series, especially in cold weather or during frequent motion events.

I tested the Arlo Ultra 2 for three months. In my suburban neighborhood with moderate foot traffic, I got about six weeks per charge. But during a holiday week when delivery drivers were constantly at my door, battery life dropped to just under three weeks. That’s a big difference—and a good reminder that usage patterns matter.

Legacy Models: Arlo Wire-Free and Arlo Q

Older models like the original Arlo Wire-Free (first generation) and Arlo Q (wired indoor) have different power setups. The first-gen Arlo Wire-Free used **four CR123A lithium batteries**, which are non-rechargeable and expensive to replace. The Arlo Q, on the other hand, is plug-in only and doesn’t use batteries at all.

If you’re still using one of these older models, consider upgrading. The newer Arlo cameras are more energy-efficient, easier to maintain, and offer better features. Plus, rechargeable batteries save you money in the long run—no more buying packs of CR123As every few months.

How Long Do Arlo Batteries Last? Real-World Expectations

Now that you know how many batteries your Arlo camera uses, the next question is: How long do they last? Arlo’s official estimates are optimistic—often quoting 3 to 6 months for most models. But real-world battery life depends on several factors, and I’ve learned this the hard way.

Environmental Factors That Drain Batteries

Temperature is a big one. Cold weather slows down chemical reactions in lithium-ion batteries, reducing their efficiency. I live in a region with harsh winters, and my Arlo Pro 3 cameras, which normally last 10 weeks, started dying after just 5 weeks when temperatures dropped below freezing.

Sunlight exposure matters too. Cameras in direct sunlight can overheat, triggering safety features that reduce performance and shorten battery life. One user reported that their Arlo Ultra 2 lasted only 4 weeks when mounted on a south-facing wall in Arizona during summer. After relocating it to a shaded area, battery life improved to 8 weeks.

Humidity and rain don’t directly affect battery life, but they can cause condensation inside the camera housing, leading to corrosion over time. This doesn’t drain the battery instantly, but it can shorten the battery’s lifespan and cause early failure.

Activity and Usage Patterns

The more your camera records, the faster the battery drains. Arlo cameras use motion detection to start recording, so if your camera is near a busy sidewalk, a tree that sways in the wind, or a dog that runs around all day, it’ll record more often—and use more power.

For example, my backyard Arlo Pro 3 sees a lot of motion from squirrels, birds, and the occasional raccoon. Even with motion sensitivity set to “medium,” it triggers 15–20 times a day. That adds up. In contrast, my front porch camera (Arlo Essential) only triggers 3–5 times daily and lasts nearly 4 months on a single charge.

You can reduce unnecessary recordings by:

• Adjusting motion sensitivity in the Arlo app
• Setting activity zones to ignore areas like trees or streets
• Using schedules to disable recording during low-risk times (e.g., midday when you’re home)

These small tweaks can extend battery life by 20–30%.

Video Quality and Streaming

Higher video resolution (like 4K on the Ultra series) requires more processing power and data transmission, which drains batteries faster. Streaming live video from your phone also uses more power than just recording clips.

I compared battery life between my Arlo Pro 3 (1080p) and Arlo Ultra 2 (4K). Under identical conditions, the Pro 3 lasted 10 weeks, while the Ultra 2 lasted 6.5 weeks. If you don’t need 4K, sticking with 1080p or 2K models can significantly improve battery longevity.

Tips to Extend Your Arlo Camera’s Battery Life

Nobody wants to climb a ladder every few weeks to change batteries. The good news? There are several proven strategies to make your Arlo batteries last longer—without sacrificing security.

Use the Right Charging Setup

Always use the official Arlo charging dock or a certified third-party dock. Cheap USB chargers can overcharge or undercharge your batteries, reducing their lifespan. The Arlo dock has built-in safety features that prevent overheating and overcharging.

Charge batteries at room temperature. Charging in extreme heat or cold can damage the cells. I keep my charging dock on a shelf in my laundry room—away from moisture and temperature swings.

Optimize Motion Detection Settings

The Arlo app lets you fine-tune motion detection. Here’s what works for me:

• Set motion sensitivity to “low” or “medium” unless you need high precision
• Create activity zones to focus on doors, driveways, or walkways
• Enable “smart detection” to filter out animals, vehicles, or people (on supported models)
• Use “quiet hours” to disable motion detection at night if you don’t need it

One user reduced false alerts by 70% by excluding a moving tree branch in their activity zone. That meant fewer recordings—and a battery that lasted 3 weeks longer.

Upgrade to a Solar Panel (For Outdoor Cameras)

Arlo offers solar panels for most outdoor models (Pro, Essential, Ultra, Go). A single 2.5W or 5W panel can keep your camera charged indefinitely in sunny climates. I installed a solar panel on my backyard Arlo Pro 3 and haven’t changed the batteries in over a year.

Even in cloudy areas, solar panels help. They don’t need direct sunlight—diffused light still generates power. Just make sure the panel is mounted where it gets at least 4–6 hours of daylight.

Use a Wired Power Adapter (If Possible)

For cameras in accessible locations, consider using a weatherproof power adapter. The Arlo Power Adapter lets you plug in your Pro, Essential, or Ultra camera directly, eliminating battery worries entirely. You’ll need to run a cable from an outdoor outlet, but it’s a one-time setup that pays off.

One homeowner I know used a low-voltage landscape lighting wire to power their front porch Arlo Essential. It’s discreet, reliable, and completely removed the need for battery changes.

Monitor Battery Health in the App

The Arlo app shows battery percentage and sends alerts when levels drop below 20%. But you can go further. Enable “battery health” monitoring (available on newer models) to see how much capacity your batteries have lost over time.

After 12 months of use, most Arlo batteries retain about 80–85% of their original capacity. If yours drops below 70%, it’s time to replace them. Replacing old batteries can restore 20–30% of lost life.

Replacing and Managing Arlo Batteries: A Step-by-Step Guide

Eventually, you’ll need to replace your Arlo batteries. Whether you’re swapping them out or upgrading to a newer model, here’s how to do it right.

How to Swap Batteries in Pro/Ultra Models

1. Open the Arlo app and disable the camera (optional, for safety)
2. Remove the camera from its mount
3. Press the battery release button on the side
4. Slide out the battery tray
5. Remove the old batteries and insert the new ones (make sure they’re charged!)
6. Reinsert the tray and re-mount the camera
7. Sync the camera in the app

Pro tip: Label your batteries with the date of first use. This helps you track lifespan and replace them before they fail.

When to Replace vs. Recharge

Not all low batteries need replacing. If a battery holds a charge for less than 50% of its original life (e.g., 3 weeks instead of 6), it’s degrading and should be replaced. But if it still charges fully but drains quickly due to heavy use, you may just need to adjust settings—not the hardware.

Where to Buy Arlo Batteries

Buy from Arlo’s official website or authorized retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or Home Depot. Avoid third-party batteries—they’re often counterfeit or low-quality and can damage your camera. One user reported a third-party battery swelling and cracking their Arlo Pro 3 housing.

Arlo batteries cost $20–$30 per pair (Pro/Ultra) or $25–$35 for a single Essential battery. Buying in bulk (e.g., a 4-pack) usually saves 10–15%.

Recycling Old Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries shouldn’t go in the trash. Arlo offers a recycling program—just ship your old batteries back in a prepaid envelope. Alternatively, take them to a local electronics recycling center. Many Home Depot and Best Buy stores have drop-off bins.

Comparing Arlo Battery Needs: A Quick Reference Table

To help you compare models at a glance, here’s a summary of battery requirements and estimated life under average conditions:

Arlo Model	Number of Batteries	Battery Type	Estimated Life (Avg. Use)	Rechargeable?	Solar Panel Compatible?
Arlo Pro 3/4	2	Lithium-ion (3.7V)	8–12 weeks	Yes	Yes
Arlo Essential	1 (built-in)	Lithium-ion (3.7V)	12–16 weeks	Yes	Yes
Arlo Essential XL	1 (built-in)	Lithium-ion (3.7V)	16–24 weeks	Yes	Yes
Arlo Ultra 2	2	Lithium-ion (3.7V)	6–10 weeks	Yes	Yes
Arlo Go 2	1	Lithium-ion (3.7V, 6500mAh)	8–12 weeks	Yes	Yes (with adapter)
Arlo Wire-Free (1st gen)	4	CR123A (non-rechargeable)	6–8 weeks	No	No

This table shows why newer models are more efficient. The Essential XL, with a single battery, lasts longer than the older 4-battery Wire-Free model—and with less hassle.

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Arlo Batteries

So, how many batteries does an Arlo camera take? The answer depends on your model, but now you know exactly what to expect. Whether it’s two rechargeable batteries in the Pro series, a built-in cell in the Essential, or a single high-capacity unit in the Go 2, understanding your camera’s power needs is key to a smooth, low-maintenance security setup.

From optimizing motion detection to adding a solar panel or switching to a wired power source, there are plenty of ways to reduce battery changes and keep your home protected without constant upkeep. And if you’re still using an older model with non-rechargeable batteries, consider upgrading—it’ll save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to know how many batteries your Arlo camera takes, but to create a system that works for your lifestyle. With the right setup, you can go months—or even years—without thinking about batteries at all. And that’s peace of mind worth every penny.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many batteries does an Arlo camera take?

Most Arlo camera models, including the Arlo Pro and Ultra, use **two rechargeable 3.7V lithium-ion batteries** per unit. Some older models may use disposable AA batteries, but newer versions prioritize rechargeable power.

Can I use regular AA batteries in my Arlo camera?

Only select Arlo models, like the original Arlo (VMC3030), support AA batteries. For newer models like Arlo Pro or Ultra, you’ll need the proprietary rechargeable batteries designed for optimal performance.

How long do Arlo camera batteries last before needing replacement?

Arlo’s rechargeable batteries typically last **3–6 months** per charge, depending on usage and settings. Motion detection frequency and video quality impact battery life significantly.

Are Arlo camera batteries interchangeable between models?

No, Arlo batteries are model-specific. For example, the Arlo Pro 4 battery won’t fit the Arlo Ultra. Always check compatibility before purchasing replacements to avoid damage.

How many batteries does an Arlo system need for full coverage?

Each camera requires its own set of batteries (usually two). A 4-camera system needs **8 batteries total**. Consider buying spare batteries to minimize downtime during recharging.

Does Arlo sell extra batteries, and how many should I buy?

Yes, Arlo sells official spare batteries for most models. For uninterrupted coverage, we recommend having **1–2 extra sets per camera** to swap while recharging.