How Many Batteries in Arlo Camera A Complete Guide

Most Arlo cameras use either 2 or 4 CR123A batteries, depending on the model—such as the 2-battery Arlo Pro 3 and the 4-battery Arlo Ultra. Battery life varies from 3 to 6 months based on usage, settings, and environmental factors, making it crucial to check your specific model’s requirements for optimal performance.

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 required.
• Rechargeable options exist for select Arlo models—save costs and reduce waste.
• Battery life varies by usage—motion detection and video quality impact duration.
• Always use lithium batteries for best results in extreme temperatures.
• Keep spares handy to avoid downtime during critical monitoring periods.

Understanding Arlo Camera Battery Configurations

Have you ever set up a smart security system only to find yourself constantly swapping out batteries? I remember the first time I installed my Arlo Pro 3. I was excited to get everything running, but then I hit a snag—how many batteries do these cameras even use? It felt like a puzzle. After some trial, error, and a few late-night Google searches, I finally got it sorted. And that’s exactly why I’m writing this guide: to save you the headache.

Arlo cameras, made by Netgear, are among the most popular wireless security cameras on the market. They’re sleek, easy to install, and offer impressive features like night vision, two-way audio, and cloud storage. But one thing that trips up a lot of users—especially new ones—is understanding the battery setup. Whether you’re considering buying an Arlo camera or already own one, knowing how many batteries your model uses, how long they last, and how to manage them is crucial for a smooth experience.

In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about Arlo camera batteries. From the number of batteries in each model to tips for maximizing battery life, we’ll cover it all. No fluff, no sales pitch—just real, practical advice to help you get the most out of your system. Let’s dive in.

How Many Batteries Do Different Arlo Cameras Use?

One of the first questions people ask is: “How many batteries in Arlo camera?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on the specific model you’re using. Arlo has released several camera lines over the years, each with its own battery configuration. Let’s break it down by model to make it crystal clear.

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

The Arlo Pro series is one of the most popular lines, known for its high-quality video and weather resistance. Here’s the scoop on batteries:

• Arlo Pro (1st Gen): Uses two rechargeable 2440mAh lithium-ion batteries.
• Arlo Pro 2: Also uses two batteries, but they’re slightly upgraded with 2600mAh capacity.
• Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4: Stick with two batteries, but now with 2600mAh and improved energy efficiency. The Pro 4 adds USB-C charging, which is a nice touch.
• Arlo Pro 5: Still uses two batteries, but they’re optimized for better cold-weather performance and longer life.

Fun fact: These batteries are removable and rechargeable, which means you can buy extras and swap them out. I keep a spare set on hand so I can pop a fresh one in while the other charges. It’s a game-changer during the winter months when battery life drops.

Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2

The Arlo Ultra series is Arlo’s flagship line, offering 4K video and advanced features. But here’s the catch:

• Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2: Each camera uses one large 5200mAh battery.

Yes, just one—but it’s a beast. The battery is built into the camera, so you can’t easily swap it out like with the Pro series. Instead, you charge it in place using a magnetic charging cable. It’s convenient, but it means you’ll need to bring the camera indoors or use a weatherproof charging station if you want to avoid downtime.

I learned this the hard way when I tried to “swap” the battery in my Ultra. Spoiler: you can’t. Lesson learned: always check the model before assuming battery swappability.

Arlo Essential Series (Essential, Essential XL)

The Essential line is Arlo’s budget-friendly option. Here’s how batteries work here:

• Arlo Essential (Indoor/Outdoor): Uses one 2600mAh battery.
• Arlo Essential XL: Uses one larger 5200mAh battery (same as the Ultra series).

The Essential cameras are designed for simplicity, so they use a single battery. The XL version is great if you want longer battery life without upgrading to the Ultra. I use an Essential XL for my backyard, and it easily lasts 4-5 months on a single charge—perfect for low-maintenance setups.

Arlo Go and Arlo Go 2

These are cellular-enabled cameras, ideal for remote locations without Wi-Fi. Battery-wise:

• Arlo Go and Go 2: Both use one 5200mAh battery.

Since these cameras rely on cellular data, they tend to drain batteries faster than Wi-Fi models. I use an Arlo Go 2 at my cabin, and I’ve found that the battery lasts about 2-3 months with moderate usage. Not bad for a camera in the middle of the woods!

Arlo Baby and Arlo Security Light

For completeness, let’s cover these niche models:

• Arlo Baby: Uses a built-in rechargeable battery (not user-replaceable).
• Arlo Security Light: Uses four AA batteries (non-rechargeable, but you can use rechargeable AAs).

The Security Light is a bit of an outlier—it’s the only Arlo device that uses standard AA batteries. It’s a nice option if you want a simple, battery-powered light without the need for a charging setup.

How Long Do Arlo Camera Batteries Last?

Now that we’ve covered how many batteries each Arlo camera uses, let’s talk about the million-dollar question: how long do they actually last? Battery life varies widely depending on usage, weather, and settings. Here’s what you can realistically expect.

Average Battery Life by Model

Battery life isn’t just about capacity—it’s about how the camera uses that power. Here’s a quick rundown of average battery life for common Arlo models:

• Arlo Pro 3/4: 3–6 months (with moderate activity and motion detection).
• Arlo Ultra: 3–5 months (4K video uses more power, so it drains faster).
• Arlo Essential: 2–4 months (shorter than Pro series due to fewer features).
• Arlo Essential XL: 4–6 months (longer due to larger battery).
• Arlo Go 2: 2–3 months (cellular data is a battery hog).

Keep in mind: these are estimates. Your actual battery life could be shorter or longer depending on your setup.

Factors That Affect Battery Life

Several things can shorten or extend your battery life. Here’s what I’ve learned from years of using Arlo cameras:

• Motion Detection: The more your camera detects motion, the more it records, and the faster the battery drains. I once had a camera near a busy sidewalk that lasted only 6 weeks because it was constantly triggered.
• Video Quality: Higher resolutions (like 4K on the Ultra) use more power. If you don’t need 4K, drop it to 1080p and save battery.
• Weather Conditions: Cold weather is a battery killer. Lithium-ion batteries perform poorly below freezing. I’ve seen my Pro 3’s battery life drop by 30% in winter.
• Wi-Fi Signal Strength: Weak Wi-Fi means the camera works harder to maintain a connection, which drains the battery faster. A strong signal can extend life by weeks.
• Night Vision Usage: Infrared LEDs use power, especially if the camera is in a dark area all night. Cameras with auto-brightness help, but they still impact battery.

Pro tip: Use the Arlo app to check battery levels and set up low-battery alerts. I have mine notify me at 20%, so I can plan for a swap or recharge before it dies.

Real-World Example: My Backyard Arlo Pro 3

Let me share a real example. I have an Arlo Pro 3 in my backyard, facing the patio. It’s set to 1080p, with motion detection on a medium sensitivity setting. During summer, it lasts about 5 months. But in winter, with shorter days (more night vision) and colder temps, it drops to 3 months. I also have a motion-activated light nearby, which reduces false triggers—this helps a lot.

The takeaway? Battery life isn’t static. It changes with your environment and usage. Plan accordingly.

How to Maximize Arlo Camera Battery Life

Want to squeeze every last drop of battery life out of your Arlo camera? Here are some practical, no-nonsense tips I’ve learned over the years.

Optimize Motion Detection Settings

Motion detection is the biggest battery drain. But you can fine-tune it to save power:

• Adjust Sensitivity: Set it to “Medium” or “Low” if you’re getting too many false alerts. I lowered mine from “High” and cut battery drain by 20%.
• Use Activity Zones: Only monitor areas that matter (like your front door). Ignore the street or bushes. This reduces unnecessary recordings.
• Schedule Detection: Turn off motion detection during times when you don’t need it (e.g., when you’re home).

I use activity zones to ignore my neighbor’s driveway. It’s a small change, but it makes a big difference in battery life.

Lower Video Quality When Possible

4K looks amazing, but it’s a battery hog. If you don’t need it, drop to 1080p or even 720p. The difference in quality is barely noticeable on most screens, but the battery savings are real.

For my backyard camera, I switched from 4K (on a Pro 4) to 1080p and gained an extra month of battery life. That’s a win in my book.

Use Solar Panels (If Available)

Arlo sells solar panels for Pro, Essential, and Ultra series cameras. They’re not free, but they’re worth it if you want to avoid constant recharging.

• Arlo Solar Panel: Keeps your camera charged with sunlight. It’s especially great for cameras in sunny spots.
• Installation Tip: Face the panel south (in the Northern Hemisphere) for maximum sun exposure.

I have a solar panel on my front porch Pro 3. It’s been running for over a year without a single recharge. Talk about low maintenance!

Keep Cameras Out of Extreme Weather

While Arlo cameras are weather-resistant, extreme heat or cold can shorten battery life. If possible:

• Install cameras in shaded areas to avoid overheating.
• Use a protective cover or enclosure in very cold climates.

My cabin’s Arlo Go 2 is under a porch, which helps it handle winter temps better.

Use Rechargeable Batteries (For Models That Allow It)

If your camera uses removable batteries (like the Pro series), buy high-quality rechargeable ones. I use the official Arlo batteries, but third-party options like Tenergy also work well.

Keep a spare set charged and ready. This way, you can swap in a fresh battery and recharge the old one without missing a beat.

Charging and Battery Maintenance Tips

Proper charging and maintenance can extend the life of your Arlo camera batteries. Here’s how to do it right.

How to Charge Arlo Batteries

Charging methods vary by model:

• Removable Batteries (Pro series): Pop the battery out and use the included USB charging dock. I charge mine overnight.
• Built-in Batteries (Ultra, Essential, Go): Use the magnetic charging cable. Plug it into a wall adapter or USB port.
• USB-C (Pro 4/5): Faster charging, but still takes 4-6 hours for a full charge.

Never use a fast charger unless it’s compatible. I once used a 20W charger on my Pro 3 and noticed the battery got warm. Not ideal for longevity.

How to Store and Maintain Batteries

Battery health matters. Here’s how to keep them in good shape:

• Store at 50% Charge: If you’re storing a battery for a long time, charge it to 50% first. This prevents degradation.
• Avoid Full Discharges: Lithium-ion batteries don’t like being fully drained. Recharge at 20-30% to extend lifespan.
• Keep Cool: Store batteries in a cool, dry place. Heat is the enemy of battery health.

I keep my spare batteries in a drawer in my office. No sunlight, no heat—just a safe spot.

When to Replace Batteries

Even the best batteries degrade over time. Signs it’s time to replace:

• Battery lasts less than half its original life.
• Battery swells or gets hot during charging.
• Camera shuts down unexpectedly.

I replaced my Pro 3’s original battery after 2 years. It was only lasting 2 months, down from 5. A new battery fixed it.

Data Table: Arlo Camera Battery Comparison

Model	Number of Batteries	Battery Capacity (mAh)	Removable?	Avg. Battery Life
Arlo Pro	2	2440	Yes	3–5 months
Arlo Pro 2	2	2600	Yes	3–5 months
Arlo Pro 3	2	2600	Yes	3–6 months
Arlo Pro 4	2	2600	Yes	3–6 months
Arlo Pro 5	2	2600	Yes	3–6 months
Arlo Ultra	1	5200	No	3–5 months
Arlo Ultra 2	1	5200	No	3–5 months
Arlo Essential	1	2600	No	2–4 months
Arlo Essential XL	1	5200	No	4–6 months
Arlo Go	1	5200	No	2–3 months
Arlo Go 2	1	5200	No	2–3 months
Arlo Security Light	4 AA	N/A	Yes	6–12 months

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

So, how many batteries in Arlo camera? As we’ve seen, it depends. Most Arlo cameras use either one or two batteries, with capacities ranging from 2440mAh to 5200mAh. The key is matching your battery setup to your needs—whether that’s long life, easy swaps, or simple charging.

Here’s my advice: if you want flexibility, go with the Pro series. The removable batteries are a lifesaver. If you want premium features and don’t mind charging, the Ultra or Essential XL are great. And if you’re in a remote area, the Go series is worth the trade-off in battery life.

Remember, battery life isn’t just about capacity. It’s about how you use your camera. Tweak settings, use solar panels, and keep an eye on weather. Small changes can make a big difference.

At the end of the day, Arlo cameras are a fantastic choice for wireless security. They’re not perfect—battery life can be finicky, and charging takes time—but with the right setup, they deliver peace of mind without constant maintenance.

Now that you know how many batteries your Arlo camera uses, you’re ready to make the most of it. Happy monitoring!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many batteries does an Arlo camera use?

Most Arlo camera models, including the Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra, use **two rechargeable 3.7V lithium-ion batteries** per camera. Some older or budget models may use AA batteries instead.

Can I use regular batteries in my Arlo camera?

Only select Arlo models (like the original Arlo Wire-Free) support standard CR123A batteries. For newer models like the Arlo Pro series, you must use proprietary rechargeable batteries designed for Arlo cameras to ensure optimal performance.

How long do Arlo camera batteries last per charge?

Arlo’s rechargeable batteries typically last **3–6 months** per charge, depending on usage, motion activity, and environmental factors. Extreme temperatures may reduce battery life.

Is the number of batteries the same for all Arlo camera models?

No, the number and type vary. For example, the Arlo Pro 3 uses **two batteries**, while the Arlo Go (LTE model) relies on a single built-in battery. Always check your model’s specifications for exact details.

How many batteries in Arlo camera kits with multiple cameras?

A 2-camera kit includes **4 batteries** (2 per camera), a 3-camera kit has **6 batteries**, and so on. Kits often come with a charging station to manage multiple batteries efficiently.

Can I buy extra batteries for my Arlo camera?

Yes, Arlo sells spare rechargeable battery packs compatible with specific models. Having extras lets you swap them out while charging, ensuring 24/7 surveillance coverage.