How Many Batteries Does Each Arlo Camera Use A Complete Guide

Most Arlo cameras use either 1 or 2 rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, depending on the model. For example, the Arlo Pro series typically requires two 3.7V batteries per camera, while newer wire-free models like the Arlo Ultra and Arlo Essential use a single integrated or removable battery for streamlined power management.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo Pro 3 uses two CR123A batteries: Replace them every 3-6 months for optimal performance.
• Arlo Ultra requires 2x 18650 Li-ion batteries: Rechargeable and last up to 6 months with regular use.
• Arlo Essential uses 1x CR123A battery: Budget-friendly but needs frequent replacements in high-usage scenarios.
• Check battery levels via the Arlo app: Monitor usage and receive low-battery alerts in real-time.
• Use lithium batteries for extreme weather: They perform better in cold or hot environments than alkaline.

How Many Batteries Does Each Arlo Camera Use? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: You’ve just set up your Arlo security system, feeling proud of your smart home upgrade. You’re ready to monitor your home, keep an eye on the kids, or even catch that raccoon that keeps tipping over your trash cans. But then, a few weeks later, your camera stops working—battery’s dead. Frustrating, right? If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How many batteries does each Arlo camera use?”, you’re not alone. Battery life and power needs are one of the most common questions for Arlo owners, and the answer isn’t always straightforward.

Arlo offers a wide range of cameras—from indoor models to rugged outdoor versions—and each has its own battery setup. Some use rechargeable packs, others rely on standard AAs, and a few even come with solar options. The number of batteries, how often they need replacing, and how long they last can vary dramatically depending on the model, usage, and environment. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Arlo camera batteries, from how many each model uses to tips for extending battery life. Whether you’re setting up your first camera or troubleshooting a sudden power drop, this guide will help you stay powered up and protected—without the guesswork.

Understanding Arlo Camera Models and Their Power Needs

Arlo’s product lineup is diverse, and with variety comes different battery configurations. Knowing which model you have—or are considering—is the first step in understanding its power demands. Let’s break it down by category and see what powers each one.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Cameras: Power Differences

Indoor cameras like the Arlo Essential Indoor are typically designed for lower power consumption and often come with built-in rechargeable batteries. They’re not exposed to extreme weather, so they don’t need as much power to maintain performance. Most indoor models use a single internal lithium-ion battery, which you charge via USB-C or micro-USB—no swapping required.

Outdoor models, such as the Arlo Pro 3 or Arlo Ultra 2, are built to withstand rain, wind, and temperature swings. These often use external, replaceable battery packs (usually lithium-ion) that are more robust and designed for longer life in harsh conditions. Because they have more features—like color night vision, spotlights, and 2K/4K resolution—they consume more power.

Tip: If you’re placing a camera in a high-traffic area (like a front porch with frequent motion), expect faster battery drain. Outdoor cameras with motion-activated lights or sirens will use more juice than basic models.

Wired vs. Wire-Free: The Battery Factor

Some Arlo cameras are fully wire-free, meaning they run 100% on batteries. Others, like the Arlo Wired Floodlight Camera, are hardwired into your home’s electrical system and don’t use batteries at all. But even some “wire-free” models can be connected to power via an optional solar panel or AC adapter.

For example, the Arlo Pro 4 is wire-free but can be powered continuously using a solar panel (sold separately). This is a game-changer if you hate recharging every few months. But if you rely solely on the internal battery, you’ll need to plan for regular charging.

Here’s a quick takeaway: Wire-free = battery-dependent. Wired or solar-assisted = less battery stress.

Legacy vs. Newer Models: What’s Changed?

Older Arlo models like the Arlo Pro (1st gen) and Arlo Pro 2 use the same type of battery pack—two 18650 lithium-ion cells in a removable cartridge. These are still widely used and compatible across several generations. But newer models like the Arlo Pro 5S 2K and Arlo Essential Spotlight use proprietary, non-swappable internal batteries.

Why does this matter? If you have older Arlo Pro cameras, you can buy spare battery packs and swap them out in seconds. But with newer models, you have to remove the entire camera from its mount to recharge it—less convenient, especially if you’ve mounted it high up or in a tricky spot.

How Many Batteries Do Specific Arlo Cameras Use?

Now, let’s get to the heart of the question: How many batteries does each Arlo camera use? The answer depends on the model, but here’s a detailed breakdown of the most popular Arlo cameras and their battery setups.

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

The Pro series is Arlo’s flagship line, known for high-quality video and advanced features. Here’s how batteries work across models:

• Arlo Pro (1st gen) & Pro 2: Uses one removable battery pack containing two 18650 lithium-ion cells. These are swappable, so you can keep extras on hand. Battery life: ~3–6 months (varies by usage).
• Arlo Pro 3 & Pro 4: Same removable pack with two 18650 cells. The Pro 4 adds USB-C charging and optional solar support. Battery life: ~3–6 months (Pro 3), up to 6+ months with solar (Pro 4).
• Arlo Pro 5S 2K: Uses a single internal lithium-ion battery (non-removable). You charge the whole camera via USB-C. Battery life: ~2–3 months, depending on activity.

Note: The Pro 5S has less battery life than earlier models due to higher resolution and AI-powered features. But the trade-off is better video quality and smarter alerts.

Arlo Essential Series (Indoor, Spotlight, Wire-Free)

The Essential line is more budget-friendly and simpler to use. Battery setups here are a bit different:

• Arlo Essential Indoor: Built-in rechargeable battery (no swaps). Charges via USB-C. Battery life: ~6 months (low activity), ~2 months (high activity).
• Arlo Essential Spotlight (Wire-Free): Internal battery, charges via USB-C. Battery life: ~3–6 months. The spotlight feature drains power faster.
• Arlo Essential Wired: No batteries! Plugs into a standard outlet. Best for areas where you can run a power cord.

Tip: If you have the Essential Spotlight and use the spotlight often, expect to charge it every 2–3 months. Consider turning off the spotlight in the app during daylight to save power.

Arlo Ultra Series (Ultra, Ultra 2, Ultra 2 XL)

The Ultra line is Arlo’s premium offering, with 4K HDR, dual microphones, and a spotlight. Power demands are high:

• Arlo Ultra & Ultra 2: Uses a removable battery pack with two 18650 cells. Similar to the Pro 3/4, but larger capacity. Battery life: ~3–6 months. Ultra 2 has slightly better efficiency.
• Arlo Ultra 2 XL: Same battery pack, but the “XL” version includes a larger battery (same two cells, but higher mAh). Battery life: ~6–9 months.

The Ultra 2 XL is a great option if you want longer battery life without solar panels. But it’s bulkier and more expensive.

Arlo Floodlight Cameras

Floodlight models are a special case:

• Arlo Wired Floodlight Camera: No batteries. Hardwired to your home’s electrical system. The floodlight is always powered, so no charging needed.
• Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight: Wire-free version with a built-in battery. Uses two 18650 cells (removable). Battery life: ~3–6 months. The bright floodlight drains power quickly.

If you want a floodlight but hate battery changes, go wired. If you need flexibility in placement, the Pro 3 Floodlight works well—just keep spare batteries handy.

Arlo Go and Arlo Go 2 (Cellular Cameras)

These are unique because they use cellular data (4G LTE) instead of Wi-Fi. They rely on internal batteries:

• Arlo Go & Go 2: Built-in lithium-ion battery. No swaps. Charges via micro-USB (Go) or USB-C (Go 2). Battery life: ~1–3 months, depending on data usage and signal strength.

Cellular data is a big power drain, so these don’t last as long as Wi-Fi models. But they’re perfect for remote locations like cabins or construction sites.

Battery Life: What Affects How Long Your Arlo Camera Lasts?

You’ve got the right number of batteries, but why do some cameras die faster than others? Battery life isn’t just about capacity—it’s influenced by several real-world factors. Let’s explore what really determines how long your Arlo camera stays powered.

Motion Detection and Recording Frequency

This is the biggest battery killer. The more motion events your camera detects, the more it records, saves to the cloud, and sends alerts. A camera in a busy street or backyard with kids and pets will drain faster than one in a quiet corner.

Example: I had an Arlo Pro 3 on my front porch. It recorded 50+ clips a day due to passing cars and delivery people. Battery lasted 2 months. After adjusting the motion sensitivity and creating a “no-motion” zone for the sidewalk, it lasted 5 months.

Tip: Use the Arlo app to:

• Adjust motion sensitivity (lower for high-traffic areas)
• Set activity zones (only record in specific areas)
• Use schedules (turn off at night if not needed)

Environmental Conditions

Extreme temperatures affect battery performance. Lithium-ion batteries don’t like:

• Cold: Below 32°F (0°C), batteries lose charge faster and take longer to recharge.
• Heat: Above 95°F (35°C), batteries degrade over time and may overheat.

If your camera is in direct sunlight or a freezing garage, expect shorter battery life. Arlo cameras are rated for -4°F to 113°F (-20°C to 45°C), but optimal performance is between 32°F and 86°F (0°C to 30°C).

Tip: Use a protective cover or shade for cameras in sunny spots. In cold climates, bring the camera indoors to charge—don’t charge in freezing temps.

Camera Features and Settings

More features = more power. Here’s how different settings impact battery life:

• Night Vision: Infrared LEDs use power. Color night vision (with spotlight) uses even more.
• Spotlight: The built-in light can be a major drain, especially if it turns on frequently.
• Audio: Two-way talk and siren features use extra power.
• Resolution: 2K and 4K video files are larger and take more power to process and transmit.

Tip: Turn off features you don’t need. For example, disable the spotlight during the day or reduce video quality to 1080p if you don’t need 4K.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

Weak Wi-Fi signals force the camera to work harder to send data, draining the battery. A camera in a basement or far from the router may struggle to connect, leading to more power usage.

Tip: Use an Arlo SmartHub or Wi-Fi extender to boost signal strength. A strong connection means less strain on the battery.

How to Extend Your Arlo Camera’s Battery Life

Want to keep your Arlo camera running longer without constant charging? These practical tips can help you stretch battery life and reduce maintenance.

Optimize Motion and Recording Settings

The Arlo app is your best tool for saving power:

• Use Activity Zones: Only record in areas where motion matters (e.g., front door, not the sidewalk).
• Adjust Sensitivity: Lower sensitivity reduces false alerts (like moving branches or shadows).
• Set Schedules: Turn off motion detection at night or during work hours if no one’s home.
• Enable “Smart Alerts” (Arlo Secure): Uses AI to filter out non-human motion (like pets), reducing unnecessary recordings.

Real-life example: A friend had an Arlo Ultra 2 in his backyard. It recorded 200 clips a week due to wind-blown leaves. After setting up activity zones and lowering sensitivity, it dropped to 20 clips—and battery life doubled.

Use Solar Panels (When Possible)

Arlo’s Solar Panel (VMA5600) is compatible with Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Ultra 2 cameras. It keeps the battery charged using sunlight, so you rarely need to remove the camera.

• Works best in areas with 4+ hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Not ideal for shaded or heavily overcast regions.
• Can extend battery life to 6–12 months or more.

Tip: Position the solar panel at a 30–45 degree angle facing south (in the Northern Hemisphere) for maximum sun exposure.

Keep Spare Batteries (For Swappable Models)

If you have Pro 3, Pro 4, or Ultra models, buy extra battery packs. Swap them out instead of waiting for a charge.

• Keep 2–3 spares fully charged.
• Use a multi-bay charger for convenience.
• Store batteries at room temperature and 40–60% charge for long-term storage.

This way, you’re never without surveillance—even if one battery dies.

Charge Smartly

How you charge matters:

• Use the original Arlo charger or a high-quality USB-C adapter.
• Don’t leave the camera plugged in indefinitely—unplug after full charge to preserve battery health.
• Charge at room temperature. Never charge in freezing or hot conditions.

Monitor Battery Health in the Arlo App

The app shows battery percentage and estimated life. Set up low-battery notifications so you never get caught off guard.

Arlo Camera Battery Comparison Table

Here’s a quick-reference table summarizing battery details for popular Arlo cameras:

Arlo Camera Model	Battery Type	Number of Batteries	Swappable?	Typical Battery Life	Charging Method
Arlo Pro / Pro 2	18650 Lithium-ion (pack)	2 cells	Yes	3–6 months	USB (charger)
Arlo Pro 3 / Pro 4	18650 Lithium-ion (pack)	2 cells	Yes	3–6 months (up to 6+ with solar)	USB-C
Arlo Pro 5S 2K	Internal Lithium-ion	1 (integrated)	No	2–3 months	USB-C
Arlo Ultra / Ultra 2	18650 Lithium-ion (pack)	2 cells	Yes	3–6 months	USB-C
Arlo Ultra 2 XL	18650 Lithium-ion (pack)	2 cells (high-capacity)	Yes	6–9 months	USB-C
Arlo Essential Indoor	Internal Lithium-ion	1 (integrated)	No	2–6 months	USB-C
Arlo Essential Spotlight	Internal Lithium-ion	1 (integrated)	No	3–6 months	USB-C
Arlo Wired Floodlight	None (hardwired)	N/A	N/A	Unlimited	AC power
Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight	18650 Lithium-ion (pack)	2 cells	Yes	3–6 months	USB-C
Arlo Go / Go 2	Internal Lithium-ion	1 (integrated)	No	1–3 months	Micro-USB / USB-C

Final Thoughts: Powering Your Peace of Mind

So, how many batteries does each Arlo camera use? The answer depends on your model, but now you know exactly what to expect. From the dual-cell swappable packs in the Pro and Ultra lines to the integrated batteries in the Essential series, Arlo offers flexibility for every need. Some cameras thrive on battery power, while others are better suited for solar or wired setups.

The key takeaway? It’s not just about the number of batteries—it’s about how you use them. With smart settings, environmental awareness, and a few simple habits, you can extend battery life and keep your home protected without constant maintenance. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a seasoned smart home user, understanding your Arlo’s power needs means fewer interruptions and more peace of mind.

Remember: Regularly check your battery levels, optimize motion zones, and consider solar if you’re tired of recharging. And if you’re planning a new setup, think about power from the start—wired or solar options can save you time and hassle down the road. Your Arlo camera isn’t just a gadget; it’s your home’s silent guardian. Treat its power source with care, and it’ll watch over you for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most Arlo cameras, like the Arlo Pro and Ultra series, use **two rechargeable 3.7V lithium-ion batteries per camera**. This ensures longer life and consistent performance in outdoor conditions.

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

No, battery requirements vary by model. For example, the Arlo Pro 3/4 and Ultra use two batteries, while the older Arlo Wire-Free (VMC3030) uses four CR123A non-rechargeable batteries.

Can I use third-party batteries in my Arlo camera, and how many does it need?

Arlo recommends using their branded batteries for safety and performance, but third-party options may work. Always confirm compatibility—most models still require **two batteries per camera**, regardless of brand.

How often do I need to replace or recharge the batteries in each Arlo camera?

Battery life ranges from 3 to 6 months, depending on usage and settings. Rechargeable models (e.g., Arlo Pro 4) use two batteries per camera, which you can swap or charge as needed.

Are the batteries in Arlo cameras interchangeable between models?

Some Arlo batteries are cross-compatible (e.g., Pro 3/4/Ultra), but older models like the Arlo Go (VMC4030) require proprietary batteries. Check your camera’s manual to confirm how many and which batteries it uses.

What happens if I install only one battery in my Arlo camera?

Arlo cameras designed for two batteries (e.g., Pro series) won’t power on with just one. Always install the correct number of batteries per camera to ensure full functionality.