How Many Batteries for Arlo Camera A Complete Guide

Most Arlo cameras require 2 to 4 rechargeable batteries, depending on the model and usage, with higher-end versions like the Arlo Ultra needing 4 for optimal performance. Standard models like the Arlo Pro 3 use 2 batteries, but extended setups or frequent recording may demand extras for seamless operation. Always check your camera’s specs to avoid power gaps!

Key Takeaways

• Check your model: Battery needs vary by Arlo camera model—verify before buying.
• Most use 4 batteries: Standard Arlo cams require 4 CR123A lithium batteries.
• Rechargeables save money: Use rechargeable CR123A batteries for long-term savings.
• Low-power modes extend life: Enable power-saving settings to reduce battery changes.
• Buy spares for backup: Keep extras on hand for uninterrupted surveillance.
• Extreme temps drain faster: Monitor battery life in hot or cold environments.

How Many Batteries for Arlo Camera: A Complete Guide

Setting up your Arlo security system should be straightforward, right? But when you open the box and see those sleek cameras, one question pops up: How many batteries for Arlo camera do I actually need? It’s a common confusion—especially if you’re new to home security systems. I remember my own experience setting up my first Arlo setup. I had three outdoor cameras, a base station, and a vague idea that “batteries go in things.” I ended up buying extra packs, only to realize some cameras didn’t need them at all. Sound familiar?

Whether you’re securing your front porch, backyard, or monitoring your kids’ play area, understanding battery needs is crucial. Not only does it affect how often you’ll be climbing ladders to swap them out, but it also impacts your overall system reliability. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know—from how many batteries each Arlo model uses, to how long they last, and smart tips to make them go further. No fluff, no sales pitch—just real talk from someone who’s been in your shoes.

Understanding Your Arlo Camera Models and Their Battery Needs

First things first: not all Arlo cameras are created equal. And that means their battery requirements vary too. Let’s break down the most popular models and what you need to know before buying batteries.

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

The Arlo Pro series is among the most popular for indoor and outdoor use. These models come with rechargeable batteries—typically a single 3.7V Li-ion battery per camera. That means:

• One battery per camera—no need to buy extras just to get started
• Each battery is designed to last 3 to 6 months on a full charge, depending on usage
• Batteries are removable and swappable, so you can keep spares on hand

For example, if you have three Arlo Pro 3 cameras, you’ll need three batteries to start. But if you want to minimize downtime, having one or two extra batteries (so you can charge while using) is a smart move.

Pro Tip: Buy genuine Arlo batteries or high-quality third-party ones (like Wasabi Power or Poweradd). Cheap knockoffs often don’t hold a charge as well and can even damage your camera over time.

Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2

These premium models offer 4K video and advanced features, but they’re also more power-hungry. Like the Pro series, each Arlo Ultra uses one rechargeable battery—but it’s a larger 3.8V Li-ion pack with higher capacity.

• Battery life: 4 to 8 months under normal use (fewer motion events = longer life)
• Comes with a magnetic charging cable for easy top-ups
• Still only one battery per camera—but the charging process is faster

One thing I love about the Ultra series? The battery status is clearly shown in the app, so you’re never caught off guard. I once ignored the “low battery” alert for a week and came home to a camera that had been off for three days. Lesson learned!

Arlo Essential Series (Essential, Essential Spotlight, Essential Indoor)

The Essential line is more budget-friendly and often uses non-rechargeable AA batteries—yes, the kind you’d find in a TV remote.

• Two AA batteries per camera (either lithium or alkaline)
• Lasts 4 to 6 months with lithium AA batteries (recommended)
• Alkaline batteries may only last 2–3 months and perform poorly in cold weather

For instance, my neighbor uses Arlo Essential cameras with Energizer Ultimate Lithium AAs, and he swaps them every five months like clockwork. But his brother tried regular Duracells—and they died in under two months during winter.

Key takeaway: If you go the AA route, always choose lithium batteries for outdoor use. They handle temperature swings better and last longer.

Arlo Go and Arlo Go 2

These cellular-connected cameras are designed for off-grid or rural areas. They use a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts about 3 to 6 months, depending on motion activity and signal strength.

• No removable battery—you charge it via USB-C
• You can’t swap batteries, so charging is your only option
• Ideal if you have a power source nearby, but not great for remote sheds or barns without outlets

I once set up an Arlo Go 2 in my dad’s fishing cabin—no Wi-Fi, no power. I had to visit every three months with a power bank to recharge it. Not ideal, but better than nothing!

Arlo Baby and Indoor Cameras

These models usually plug into a wall outlet, so no batteries required. But some versions (like the Arlo Baby) come with a backup battery that lasts a few hours during power outages.

If you’re using a battery-powered indoor model, check the specs—most use either a single Li-ion pack or AA batteries, similar to the Essential series.

How Long Do Arlo Camera Batteries Last? (And What Affects It)

You’ve got your batteries. Now, how long will they actually last? The answer: it depends. But let’s get specific.

Factors That Impact Battery Life

Think of your Arlo camera like a smartphone. The more you use it, the faster the battery drains. Here’s what affects longevity:

• Motion Detection Frequency: Cameras near driveways, sidewalks, or high-traffic areas record more, using more power.
• Video Quality: 4K (Ultra) uses more juice than 1080p (Pro 3). Lower resolution = longer battery life.
• Night Vision Usage: Infrared LEDs draw more power. Cameras in dark areas run them more often.
• Temperature: Cold weather (< 32°F) can cut battery life in half. Lithium batteries handle this better than alkaline.
• Wi-Fi Signal Strength: Weak signal means the camera works harder to stay connected, draining the battery faster.

For example, my Arlo Pro 3 on the front porch—facing a busy street—lasts about 3 months. But the one in my backyard, under a covered patio, goes 6 months between charges. Same camera, different environment.

Average Battery Life by Model

Here’s a quick reference to set realistic expectations:

• Arlo Pro 2/3/4/5S: 3–6 months (1 battery)
• Arlo Ultra/Ultra 2: 4–8 months (1 battery)
• Arlo Essential (AA lithium): 4–6 months (2 batteries)
• Arlo Go/Go 2: 3–6 months (built-in, non-swappable)
• Arlo Baby (backup): ~2 hours during outage

Note: These are estimates based on average use (10–15 motion events per day). If your camera sees 50+ events daily, expect shorter life.

How to Check Battery Level in the Arlo App

The Arlo app makes it easy to monitor battery status:

1. Open the Arlo app on your phone or tablet
2. Tap on the camera you want to check
3. Look for the battery icon in the top corner—green = good, yellow = low, red = critical
4. Tap “Device Info” to see exact percentage (available on newer models)

I set a monthly reminder on my phone to check all camera batteries. It takes two minutes and prevents surprises.

How to Maximize Arlo Camera Battery Life (Practical Tips)

Want to stretch your battery life? Here are real-world tips that actually work—no magic, just smart habits.

Adjust Motion Detection Settings

Too many false alerts? That’s a battery killer. Fine-tune your motion zones:

• In the Arlo app, go to your camera → “Motion Detection”
• Draw zones to cover only important areas (e.g., front door, not the entire street)
• Set sensitivity lower for areas with lots of leaves, animals, or passing cars

After I did this, my front camera’s motion events dropped from 20 to 5 per day—and battery life jumped from 3 to 5 months.

Use Smart Schedules

Not home during the day? Turn off recording when you don’t need it.

• Set “Away” and “Home” modes in the app
• Cameras can stay on but disable motion recording when you’re home
• Or use geofencing to auto-arm when you leave

My mom uses this trick for her backyard camera. It only records when she’s not home—saving battery and reducing false alerts from squirrels.

Optimize Video Quality and Night Vision

High-quality video looks great, but it eats battery. Try this:

• Set resolution to 1080p instead of 4K (unless you really need it)
• Use “Auto” night vision mode—camera turns on IR only when needed
• For outdoor cameras, consider adding a porch light or floodlight to reduce IR usage

I switched my Ultra to 1080p and kept the same battery life as my Pro 3—with nearly the same clarity. Win-win.

Keep Cameras in a Good Wi-Fi Range

A weak signal forces the camera to boost its transmitter, using more power. If your camera is far from the base station:

• Add an Arlo SmartHub or Wi-Fi extender
• Reposition the camera slightly closer (even 10 feet helps)
• Use the “Signal Strength” tool in the app to find the sweet spot

One of my cameras was on the edge of signal range. After moving it 15 feet closer to the house, battery life improved by 30%.

Use a Solar Panel (For Rechargeable Models)

Arlo offers official solar panels for Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Go series. They’re a game-changer for outdoor cameras.

• Connects directly to the camera’s magnetic charging port
• Provides a trickle charge to keep batteries topped off
• Ideal for sunny locations—can eliminate battery changes altogether

I installed a solar panel on my backyard camera last summer. It hasn’t needed a charge in over 10 months. Worth every penny.

Battery Replacement and Charging: What You Need to Know

Eventually, all batteries wear out. Here’s how to handle replacements and charging without headaches.

When to Replace or Recharge Batteries

• Recharge: When the app shows below 20%—don’t wait for 0%
• Replace: If a rechargeable battery won’t hold a charge after 1–2 years, or if AA batteries are corroded
• Check every 3 months: Even if the app says “good,” inspect for swelling or damage

I learned this the hard way when a swollen battery cracked my camera’s housing. Now I check them quarterly.

How to Charge Arlo Rechargeable Batteries

1. Remove the battery from the camera (slide out the compartment)
2. Use the included USB charging cable or a third-party dock
3. Plug into a wall adapter, power bank, or computer
4. Charging takes 2–4 hours (full charge)

Pro Tip: Use a multi-port USB charger to charge several batteries at once. I keep a 4-port Anker charger on my desk—perfect for managing three cameras.

Storing Spare Batteries

If you keep extras, store them properly:

• Keep at 50% charge if not used for long periods
• Store in a cool, dry place (not the garage in winter!)
• Use a battery case to prevent short-circuiting

I keep my spare Arlo batteries in a small tackle box with foam cutouts. Organized and safe.

Cost Comparison: Rechargeable vs. AA Batteries (Data Table)

Let’s talk money. How much will batteries cost you over a year?

Camera Type	Battery Type	Cost per Battery	Batteries Needed	Est. Lifespan	Annual Cost (3 Cameras)
Arlo Pro 3	Rechargeable Li-ion	$25	1 per camera	2–3 years	$25 (one-time)
Arlo Ultra	Rechargeable Li-ion	$35	1 per camera	2–3 years	$35 (one-time)
Arlo Essential	Lithium AA (2 per cam)	$15 for 4-pack	2 per camera	4–6 months	$60/year (2 changes)
Arlo Essential	Alkaline AA (2 per cam)	$10 for 20-pack	2 per camera	2–3 months	$80/year (4 changes)
Arlo Go 2	Built-in (non-replaceable)	$0 (built-in)	1 per camera	3–6 months	$0 (but charging required)

Note: Costs are approximate and based on U.S. pricing. Rechargeable models have higher upfront cost but lower long-term expense. AA batteries add up fast—especially if you use alkaline.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Setup

So, how many batteries for Arlo camera do you really need? The answer depends on your specific models, usage, and environment. But here’s the bottom line:

• One battery per Arlo Pro or Ultra camera—start with one, add spares if you want convenience
• Two AA batteries per Essential camera—use lithium for best performance
• No batteries for plug-in models—but keep a backup plan for outages
• Invest in extras or solar panels to reduce maintenance

I’ve gone from frustrated newbie to confident Arlo user by learning these details. You don’t need to buy every battery under the sun—just the right ones for your needs. And remember: small tweaks in settings, placement, and charging habits can make a huge difference in battery life.

Whether you’re securing your home, watching your pets, or keeping an eye on deliveries, your Arlo system should work for you—not the other way around. With the right batteries and a few smart practices, you’ll spend less time swapping and more time enjoying peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many batteries does an Arlo camera need?

Most Arlo cameras, including the Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra, require **4 CR123A lithium batteries per camera**. Some older models, like the original Arlo, may use 2 batteries, so check your model’s manual for specifics.

Can I use rechargeable batteries for my Arlo camera?

Yes, Arlo cameras support rechargeable CR123A batteries, which can save costs over time. However, ensure they meet the required 3V output and high-drain performance for optimal camera functionality.

How long do batteries last in an Arlo camera?

Battery life varies by model and usage but typically lasts **3–6 months**. Frequent motion detection, 4K streaming, or extreme weather can shorten this. The Arlo app notifies you when batteries are low.

How many batteries for Arlo camera setups with multiple devices?

For a 4-camera system, you’ll need **16 CR123A batteries (4 per camera)**. Always keep spares on hand, as battery life depends on activity and environmental factors.

Are there alternative power options for Arlo cameras?

Yes! Arlo offers solar panels, outdoor power cables, and indoor magnetic charging kits to reduce reliance on disposable batteries. These are ideal for continuous power in high-traffic areas.

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

Using fewer batteries than required (e.g., 2 instead of 4) will prevent the camera from powering on. Always follow Arlo’s guidelines to avoid damage or malfunction.