How Many Batteries Does Arlo Camera Use A Complete Guide

Most Arlo cameras use either 2 or 4 CR123A lithium batteries, depending on the model, with higher-end versions like the Arlo Pro series typically requiring two rechargeable 3.7V batteries. Battery life ranges from 3 to 6 months under normal use, though factors like motion frequency and video quality can significantly impact longevity.

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 needed.
• Rechargeable batteries are compatible but may reduce runtime compared to lithium ones.
• Low-battery alerts appear in the Arlo app—enable notifications to avoid downtime.
• Store spare batteries properly in a cool, dry place to maximize shelf life.
• Replace batteries in pairs to maintain consistent power and camera functionality.

How Many Batteries Does Arlo Camera Use? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: You’ve just set up your shiny new Arlo camera to keep an eye on your front porch, backyard, or even your pet while you’re away. You’re excited, maybe even a little proud of your new smart home upgrade. Then, a few weeks later, the app pings you with a low-battery alert. Panic sets in—how many batteries does this thing even use? How often will I be swapping them out? And why didn’t anyone mention this before I bought it?

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a dead camera or wondering how long those tiny batteries will last, you’re not alone. Battery life is one of the most common—and often overlooked—factors when setting up a wireless security camera. Arlo, one of the most popular names in smart home security, offers a range of cameras, each with different power needs. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how many batteries Arlo cameras use, how long they last, what types they require, and how you can extend their life. Whether you’re a new Arlo user or a long-time fan, this guide will help you keep your system running smoothly—without constant trips to the battery aisle.

Understanding Arlo Camera Models and Their Battery Requirements

Arlo doesn’t use a one-size-fits-all battery strategy. Instead, each camera model is designed with specific power needs based on features like resolution, motion detection, night vision, and connectivity. Let’s dive into the most common Arlo models and how many batteries they use.

Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Pro 4: The Dual-Battery Workhorses

The Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Pro 4 are among the most popular mid-to-high-end models. Both use **two rechargeable lithium-ion batteries** (model: VMB5000). These are not standard AA or AAA batteries—they’re proprietary, high-capacity units designed specifically for Arlo.

• Each battery is 6,400mAh (milliamp-hours).
• You insert one battery at a time, but the camera can hold a second as a backup (sold separately).
• The second battery slot allows for hot-swapping—meaning you can replace one while the other keeps the camera running.

Real-world example: Sarah, a homeowner in Austin, uses two Arlo Pro 4 cameras. She rotates batteries every 2.5 months. She keeps a third battery charging so she never has downtime. “It’s like having a spare tire,” she says. “I swap it out, charge the old one, and I’m good for another 8 weeks.”

Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2: Power-Hungry but High-Performance

The Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2 are top-tier models with 4K video, color night vision, and built-in spotlights. These cameras use the same **two VMB5000 batteries** as the Pro 3/4, but they drain faster due to higher energy demands.

• Expect battery life to be 20–30% shorter than the Pro models.
• Features like 4K streaming and continuous spotlight use are major battery drainers.
• The Ultra series also supports optional solar panels (more on that later).

Tip: If you’re using Ultra cameras in high-traffic areas (like driveways or front doors), consider using the solar panel add-on to reduce battery changes.

Arlo Essential Series: Single-Battery Simplicity

The Arlo Essential line (including the Essential Wire-Free, Essential XL, and Essential Spotlight) uses **one rechargeable battery** (model: VMB4000). This is a simpler setup, great for users who want fewer components to manage.

• Battery capacity: 4,400mAh (smaller than the VMB5000).
• No built-in second battery slot, so downtime occurs during charging.
• Still supports solar panel charging (sold separately).

For apartment dwellers or users with low-traffic areas, the Essential series offers a cost-effective and low-maintenance option.

Arlo Go 2: For Cellular-Connected Outdoor Use

The Arlo Go 2 is designed for off-grid use, relying on cellular data instead of Wi-Fi. It uses **one VMB4000 battery**, but its power consumption is higher due to constant cellular connectivity.

• Battery life is shorter—often 1–2 months, depending on data usage.
• Best used in remote areas (e.g., cabins, construction sites).
• Supports solar panel charging, which is highly recommended for this model.

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

“Battery life” isn’t a fixed number—it varies wildly based on usage. A camera in a quiet backyard might last 6 months, while one facing a busy street might need a charge every 6 weeks. Let’s break down what affects battery life and how to estimate yours.

Factors That Drain Arlo Batteries Faster

Not all motion events are created equal. Here’s what uses the most power:

• High motion activity: More triggers = more video recording = more battery drain. A camera facing a tree that sways in the wind will record constantly.
• Video resolution: 4K (Ultra) uses more power than 1080p (Pro 3/4 or Essential).
• Night vision mode: Infrared LEDs and color night vision (with spotlight) are power-hungry.
• Wi-Fi strength: Weak signal forces the camera to work harder to maintain connection.
• Temperature extremes: Cold weather (below 32°F) can reduce battery capacity by up to 50%.
• Firmware updates: Occasionally, updates can cause temporary power spikes.

Estimated Battery Life by Model (Average Use)

Here’s a general guide based on typical usage (moderate motion, 1080p or 4K, mixed day/night recording):

• Arlo Pro 3/4: 3–6 months per battery

<

• Arlo Ultra/Ultra 2: 2–4 months per battery
• Arlo Essential: 2–5 months per battery
• Arlo Go 2: 1–2 months per battery

Note: These are averages. Your mileage may vary—and often will!

How to Check Battery Life in the Arlo App

The Arlo app gives you real-time battery percentages for each camera. Here’s how to monitor it:

1. Open the Arlo app.
2. Tap on the camera you want to check.
3. Look for the battery icon in the top-right corner.
4. Tap “Device Settings” > “Battery” for more details, including estimated time until recharge.

Pro tip: Set up low-battery alerts in the app (Settings > Notifications > Battery Alerts). This way, you’ll get a push notification when a battery drops below 20%.

Charging and Replacing Arlo Batteries: What You Need to Know

Charging Arlo batteries is straightforward, but there are a few quirks and best practices to keep in mind.

How to Charge Arlo Batteries

Arlo batteries come with a charging dock (usually included with the camera kit). Here’s the process:

1. Remove the battery from the camera (press the release button on the side).
2. Insert it into the charging dock.
3. Connect the dock to a USB power source (wall adapter, computer, or power bank).
4. A red light indicates charging; green means full.

Charging time: Approximately 2–3 hours for a full charge (from 0% to 100%).

Using a Second Battery for Continuous Coverage

If you have a Pro 3, Pro 4, or Ultra model, you can buy a second battery (or third, or fourth—Arlo sells them in packs). This lets you:

• Swap batteries without downtime.
• Keep one charging while the other is in use.
• Use the Arlo app to track which battery is in which camera.

Tip: Label your batteries (e.g., “Camera 1,” “Spare”) with a waterproof marker to avoid confusion.

Can You Use Third-Party Batteries?

Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended. Third-party batteries (like those from Amazon or eBay) may:

• Not fit securely, causing connection issues.
• Have lower capacity or poor charge retention.
• Void your warranty or damage the camera over time.

Stick with genuine Arlo batteries for reliability and safety. Yes, they’re pricier (around $40–$50 per battery), but they last longer and perform better.

Solar Panel Charging: A Game-Changer for Battery Life

Arlo’s Solar Panel (compatible with Pro 3/4, Ultra, Essential, and Go 2) can dramatically extend battery life—or even eliminate the need for manual charging.

• Provides a trickle charge throughout the day.
• Ideal for cameras in sunny, high-traffic areas.
• Installation is simple: attach the panel to a wall or roof, connect the cable to the camera.

Note: Solar charging won’t fully recharge a dead battery, but it can keep a partially charged battery topped up. Think of it as “battery insurance.”

Maximizing Arlo Battery Life: Practical Tips and Tricks

Want to stretch that battery life from 3 months to 5? Here are proven strategies used by Arlo veterans.

Adjust Motion Detection Sensitivity

High sensitivity = more false alarms = more recordings = more battery drain. Try this:

• Go to Device Settings > Motion Detection.
• Lower sensitivity to “Medium” or “Low.”
• Use “Activity Zones” to ignore non-important areas (e.g., trees, roads).

Example: Mike in Colorado reduced his camera’s motion alerts by 60% after excluding a swaying pine tree. His battery life jumped from 8 weeks to 14 weeks.

Optimize Video Quality and Recording Settings

You don’t need 4K all the time. Try these tweaks:

• Switch to 1080p if 4K isn’t essential.
• Enable “Smart Recording” to only record during motion.
• Reduce video length (e.g., 10 seconds instead of 30).
• Use “Night Vision Mode” set to “Auto” instead of “Always On.”

Improve Wi-Fi Signal Strength

A weak signal forces the camera to transmit data at higher power. To help:

• Place your base station close to outdoor cameras.
• Use Wi-Fi extenders or mesh systems (like Arlo SmartHub).
• Avoid thick walls or metal barriers between the camera and router.

Use the Arlo SmartHub or Base Station

The SmartHub (for Pro 3/4 and Ultra) or Base Station (for Essential) improves battery life by:

• Reducing Wi-Fi congestion.
• Enabling local storage (less reliance on cloud uploads).
• Providing a stronger, more stable connection.

Clean the Camera Lens and Sensors

Dirty sensors can trigger false motion alerts. Wipe the lens and PIR (passive infrared) sensor with a soft cloth every few weeks. A clean camera is a happy camera—and a longer-lasting battery.

Data Table: Arlo Battery Specifications at a Glance

Camera Model	Battery Model	Batteries Used	Battery Capacity	Est. Battery Life	Solar Panel Compatible?	Charging Time
Arlo Pro 3/4	VMB5000	1 (2 slots)	6,400mAh	3–6 months	Yes	2–3 hours
Arlo Ultra/Ultra 2	VMB5000	1 (2 slots)	6,400mAh	2–4 months	Yes	2–3 hours
Arlo Essential	VMB4000	1 (1 slot)	4,400mAh	2–5 months	Yes	2–3 hours
Arlo Go 2	VMB4000	1 (1 slot)	4,400mAh	1–2 months	Yes	2–3 hours

Note: Battery life estimates are based on moderate use (5–10 motion events per day, mixed day/night recording, good Wi-Fi). Actual results may vary.

Final Thoughts: Managing Your Arlo Batteries Like a Pro

So, how many batteries does an Arlo camera use? The answer depends on the model—but it’s usually one or two rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The Pro 3/4 and Ultra models use two (with a second slot for backup), while the Essential and Go 2 use one. What matters most isn’t the number, but how you manage them.

Think of your Arlo cameras like pets: they need attention, feeding (charging), and a little TLC to thrive. A few simple habits—like adjusting motion zones, using solar panels, and keeping batteries labeled—can save you hours of hassle and keep your home secure without constant maintenance.

Remember: battery life isn’t just about how long it lasts. It’s about reliability, convenience, and peace of mind. With the tips in this guide, you’ll spend less time worrying about dead cameras and more time enjoying the security Arlo provides. Whether you’re protecting your home, checking on pets, or just keeping an eye on the mail, your Arlo system will be ready—battery fully charged and always watching.

Now go forth, swap those batteries with confidence, and maybe even treat yourself to a solar panel. Your future self will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many batteries does an Arlo camera use for optimal performance?

Most Arlo cameras, like the Arlo Pro and Ultra, use **two CR123A lithium batteries** per device for reliable, long-lasting performance. Some older models may use different types, so check your camera’s manual for specifics.

Do all Arlo cameras require the same number of batteries?

No, battery requirements vary by model. While the Arlo Pro 3 and Ultra use two rechargeable batteries, the Arlo Go uses a single built-in battery, and the original Arlo uses four AA batteries.

How long do batteries last in an Arlo camera?

Battery life depends on usage, but Arlo cameras typically last **3–6 months** on a single set of batteries. High-traffic areas or frequent live streaming may shorten this duration.

Can I use rechargeable batteries in my Arlo camera?

Yes! Arlo Pro and Ultra models include **rechargeable batteries**, and you can purchase replacements from Arlo. Avoid using third-party non-rechargeable CR123A batteries, as they may damage the camera.

How many batteries does an Arlo camera need for continuous recording?

Continuous recording drains batteries faster. For 24/7 use, consider Arlo’s **solar panel charger** or **wired power adapter** to reduce battery dependency, even if your camera uses two batteries.

What happens if I use the wrong number of batteries in my Arlo camera?

Using the incorrect battery count (e.g., only one in a two-battery model) may prevent the camera from powering on or cause malfunctions. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for battery type and quantity.