Changing the batteries in your Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 is quick and tool-free—simply twist off the camera’s rear cover and swap the old batteries for fresh CR123A lithium cells. Ensure the camera is powered off before removal to avoid disruptions, and always check the battery compartment for corrosion or debris to maintain optimal performance. Proper battery replacement keeps your security system running smoothly with minimal downtime.

How to Change Batteries in Arlo Netgear Camera 2026

Key Takeaways

• Power off the camera first to avoid damage during battery replacement.
• Use only recommended batteries for optimal performance and safety.
• Open the battery compartment by pressing the release button on the bottom.
• Replace all batteries at once to ensure consistent power and avoid leaks.
• Check battery orientation to prevent incorrect installation and malfunctions.
• Re-sync the camera after battery replacement to restore connectivity.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest: nothing’s more frustrating than checking your security feed, only to find your Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 is offline—because the batteries died.

You’re not alone. I’ve been there. Last winter, I got a motion alert at 2 a.m. only to realize my backyard camera had gone dark a week earlier. The culprit? Dead batteries. And I didn’t even know how to change batteries in Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 at the time.

These cameras are sleek, wireless, and designed for convenience. But that freedom comes with a catch: regular battery swaps. Unlike plug-in models, the Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 runs on rechargeable or disposable batteries, and knowing how to change them properly is essential.

Whether you’re using the Arlo Pro 5S 2K, Arlo Ultra 2, or another model in the 2026 lineup, the process is similar—but not always intuitive. And if you do it wrong? You risk damaging the battery compartment, voiding the warranty, or worse—leaving your home unprotected.

That’s why mastering how to change batteries in Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 isn’t just about maintenance. It’s about peace of mind.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step—from gathering tools to re-syncing your camera—with real-world tips I’ve learned after years of managing a 10-camera setup. No fluff. No jargon. Just what works.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s make sure you’re ready. Here’s a quick checklist of tools and materials you’ll need to change batteries in your Arlo Netgear Camera 2026:

• Replacement batteries: Check your model—some use the Arlo Rechargeable Battery Pack (like the Pro 5S 2K), while others take standard CR123A or AA lithium batteries. Pro tip: I always keep a spare pack charged and ready.
• Microfiber cloth: To clean the camera lens and housing without scratching it.
• Small flathead or Arlo battery tool: The camera includes a tiny metal tool for opening the battery door. If you lost it (like I did), a flathead screwdriver works in a pinch.
• Step ladder: For cameras mounted high up. Safety first.
• Smartphone or tablet with Arlo app: You’ll need it to re-sync the camera after battery replacement.
• Optional: Battery tester: To check if your old batteries are truly dead—sometimes a quick reset fixes the issue.

Most of these are household items. The key is using the right battery type. I once tried using regular alkaline batteries in a Pro 5S—big mistake. They leaked and corroded the contacts. Stick to lithium or the official Arlo pack.

Now that you’re prepped, let’s get into the actual how to change batteries in Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 process.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Change Batteries in Arlo Netgear Camera 2026

Step 1: Power Down and Access the Camera

First, don’t just yank the camera off the mount. That can damage the base or even the camera itself.

Instead, open your Arlo app and check the camera’s status. If it’s offline, great—no need to power it down. If it’s online, go to Devices > select your camera > More > Turn Off.

Now, carefully remove the camera from its mount. Most Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 models use a quick-release magnetic base. Just twist slightly and pull. If yours is secured with screws (like in high-traffic areas), use a screwdriver to loosen the bracket.

Place the camera on a clean, flat surface. I use a small tray with a microfiber cloth—keeps everything organized and prevents scratches.

This step is crucial: you want full control before opening the battery compartment. Rushing leads to dropped cameras or damaged seals.

⚠️ Warning: Never force the camera off the mount. The magnetic base can be strong, especially in cold weather. A gentle twist is all you need.

Step 2: Open the Battery Compartment

This is where many people get stuck. The battery door on the Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 is small, flush, and designed to be weather-resistant.

Look for the tiny slot on the bottom or side of the camera. It’s usually marked with a small battery icon.

Take your Arlo battery tool (or a small flathead screwdriver) and gently insert it into the slot. Wiggle it slightly—there’s a small latch inside. When you feel a click, push down and the door will pop open.

Don’t use too much force. The plastic is durable, but over time, prying too hard can crack it. I learned this the hard way with my first camera—now I use the tool at a 45-degree angle, not straight in.

Once open, you’ll see the battery pack or individual batteries. For models with a rechargeable pack (like the Pro 5S 2K), it’s a single unit. For older models, you’ll see two or four CR123A batteries.

Note: Some 2026 models have a silicone seal around the door. If yours does, make sure it stays in place when you close it later—this keeps water out.

💡 Pro Tip: Take a quick photo of the battery orientation before removing anything. This helps avoid reinserting batteries backwards, which can cause sync issues.

Step 3: Remove the Old Batteries

For rechargeable battery packs (most 2026 models):

• Grab the pack by the edges—don’t touch the contacts.
• Gently pull it straight out. It should slide with little resistance.
• If it’s stuck, wiggle it side to side slightly. Never use pliers!

For CR123A or AA batteries:

• Use your fingernail or a plastic spudger to pry each battery out.
• Start from the positive end (the bump). This reduces the risk of shorting.
• Check for corrosion or leakage. If you see white powder, clean the contacts with a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol.

I always label my old batteries with the date and camera number. That way, I can track battery life and spot patterns (e.g., one camera drains faster due to frequent motion alerts).

Also: dispose of old batteries properly. Many hardware stores have drop-off bins. I keep a small container in my garage for used batteries until I can recycle them.

⚠️ Warning: Never mix old and new batteries, or different brands. It can cause uneven discharge and damage the camera.

Step 4: Insert the New Batteries

Now, the fun part—getting fresh power in.

For rechargeable packs:

• Make sure the pack is fully charged. I use the Arlo Charging Station—it takes about 3 hours.
• Align the contacts on the pack with the slots in the camera. The pack only fits one way.
• Slide it in gently until it clicks into place.

For disposable batteries:

• Insert each battery according to the polarity markings (+ and -).
• Push them in firmly but smoothly. They should sit flush.
• Double-check the orientation using the photo you took earlier.

One thing I’ve noticed: lithium batteries last longer in cold weather than alkaline. If your camera is outside, spend the extra $2 per battery for lithium CR123A—it’s worth it.

After insertion, give the compartment a quick visual check. Are the contacts clean? Is the battery seated properly? No loose pieces?

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re using a rechargeable pack, charge it before installing. I once installed a half-charged pack and had to change it again in two weeks—not fun in a snowstorm.

Step 5: Close the Battery Compartment

Now, close the door. Simple, right? Not quite.

Align the door with the slot and press it shut until you hear a click. That means the latch is engaged.

But here’s the catch: make sure the silicone seal (if present) isn’t pinched or folded. I once closed the door with the seal caught in the latch—took me 10 minutes to fix, and the camera got foggy inside from moisture.

Once closed, give the camera a gentle wipe with your microfiber cloth. Remove any fingerprints or dust. A clean lens means better video quality.

Now, reattach the camera to its mount. For magnetic mounts, just hover it near the base and let the magnets pull it in. For screw-mounted brackets, tighten the screw until snug—don’t over-torque.

Position the camera to match its previous angle. I use a small piece of tape on the mount as a reference point so I don’t have to re-adjust the view every time.

Step 6: Power On and Re-Sync with the Arlo App

Time to bring your camera back online.

Press and hold the sync button on the side of the camera for about 3–5 seconds. You’ll see the LED blink amber, then turn solid blue when ready.

Now, open the Arlo app on your phone. Go to Devices > Add Device > follow the prompts to re-pair the camera.

The app should detect it within 30 seconds. If not, try moving closer to your base station or Wi-Fi router.

Once connected, check the battery level in the app. It should show 100% (or close to it). If it shows low, the battery may not be seated properly—double-check the compartment.

Test the camera: wave your hand in front of it to trigger a motion alert. Check the video quality and sound (if applicable). If it works, you’re golden.

For multi-camera setups, I recommend labeling each camera in the app (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard”) so you know which one to replace when the battery dies next time.

💡 Pro Tip: Enable “Battery Saver” mode in the Arlo app. It reduces video quality slightly but can extend battery life by 20–30%—perfect for low-traffic areas.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After years of changing batteries in over a dozen Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 units, here are the real-world lessons I wish I knew sooner:

• Schedule battery changes: Don’t wait for the low-battery alert. I change mine every 6 months, even if they’re not dead. Prevents surprises.
• Use a battery log: I keep a simple spreadsheet with camera name, battery type, install date, and expected life. Helps me plan replacements.
• Check the seal every time: The silicone gasket can degrade over time. Replace it if it’s cracked or flattened.
• Avoid extreme temps during swap: Don’t change batteries in direct sunlight or freezing rain. It can cause condensation or thermal stress.
• Keep a spare battery pack: I have two for each camera. When one dies, I swap it out and charge the other—no downtime.

Now, the common mistakes—because I’ve made them all:

• Forcing the battery door: It’s not a screw—don’t twist. Use the tool to release the latch, not pry.
• Ignoring corrosion: Even a tiny bit of battery gunk can block the connection. Clean contacts with 90% isopropyl alcohol and a cotton swab.
• Using non-lithium batteries outdoors: Alkaline batteries fail in cold weather. Stick to lithium CR123A for outdoor cameras.
• Skipping the sync step: The camera may power on, but without syncing, it won’t connect to Wi-Fi. Always press the sync button.
• Over-tightening the mount screw: It can crack the plastic base. Hand-tight is enough.

One last thing: if your camera still shows low battery after a fresh pack, try a hard reset. Remove the battery, hold the sync button for 10 seconds, then reinsert. This clears the memory and often fixes false low-battery readings.

Mastering how to change batteries in Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 isn’t just about the swap—it’s about doing it right every time.

FAQs About How to Change Batteries in Arlo Netgear Camera 2026

Q: How often should I change the batteries in my Arlo Netgear Camera 2026?

It depends on usage. For moderate use (a few motion events per day), expect 4–6 months with a rechargeable pack or lithium CR123A batteries. High-traffic areas (like a busy front door) may need swaps every 2–3 months. I check mine every 3 months as a rule of thumb.

Q: Can I use regular batteries instead of the Arlo rechargeable pack?

Yes, but only if your model supports it (like older Arlo Pros). The Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 Pro 5S 2K, for example, uses a proprietary pack. But if you have a model that accepts CR123A, lithium batteries are a solid choice—just not alkaline. And never mix types.

Q: Why does my camera show “low battery” right after I change it?

This is a common glitch. The camera’s memory hasn’t reset. Try a hard reset: remove the battery, hold the sync button for 10 seconds, then reinsert. Also, make sure the new battery is fully charged and properly seated.

Q: Is it safe to change batteries in the rain?

Not really. Moisture can enter the compartment and damage the camera. If you must do it, use a small umbrella or do it under a covered porch. Better yet, wait for a dry day or bring the camera inside for the swap.

Q: How do I know which battery type my Arlo camera uses?

Check the model number on the back of the camera. Then visit the Arlo website or your app—under device settings, it usually lists battery type. Or, open the compartment once and take a photo. I keep a cheat sheet on my phone.

Q: Can I charge the Arlo battery pack while it’s in the camera?

No. The Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 doesn’t support in-camera charging. You must remove the pack and charge it separately using the Arlo Charging Station or a compatible charger. I keep two packs so one is always ready.

Q: My camera won’t sync after a battery change. What should I do?

First, ensure the camera is powered on (LED blinking). Then, press the sync button for 3–5 seconds. If it still won’t connect, try moving it closer to the base station or Wi-Fi router. As a last resort, remove and re-add the device in the app.

Final Thoughts

Changing batteries in your Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 isn’t rocket science—but it does require care, the right tools, and a bit of patience.

You now know how to change batteries in Arlo Netgear Camera 2026 like a pro: from safely removing the camera to re-syncing it in the app. You’ve learned what to watch out for, how to avoid common mistakes, and even how to extend battery life.

My advice? Don’t wait for the low-battery alert. Set a calendar reminder every 5 months. Keep a spare battery pack charged. And always clean the contacts when you swap.

Because when your camera is working, you’re not just recording video—you’re protecting what matters.

So next time that LED turns red, you won’t panic. You’ll grab your tool, swap the battery, and get back to peace of mind—quick, clean, and confident.

Stay safe, and happy monitoring.