Charge your Arlo Go camera quickly and reliably using the included solar panel or USB-C cable for uninterrupted 24/7 surveillance. Ensure optimal performance by placing the solar panel in direct sunlight or connecting to a 5V/2A power source—ideal for off-grid or indoor setups. Always monitor battery levels via the Arlo app to avoid downtime and maximize camera efficiency.

How to Charge an Arlo Go Camera in 2026: A Complete Guide

Key Takeaways

• Use the original charger: Always charge with Arlo’s included 5V/2A adapter for safety.
• Check battery level: Monitor via Arlo app to avoid over-discharging the camera.
• Charge indoors when possible: Protect charging port from weather and debris.
• Remove the battery: For faster charging, take out the battery and charge separately.
• Use solar panels: Pair with Arlo Solar Panel for continuous outdoor charging.
• Secure cable connections: Ensure USB-C or micro-USB is fully inserted to prevent interruptions.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be real—your Arlo Go camera is your eyes when you’re not around. Whether you’re monitoring a vacation home, keeping tabs on a remote cabin, or just making sure the backyard is safe, a dead battery means blind spots. And in 2026, with more people relying on cellular-powered security, knowing how to charge an Arlo Go camera in 2026: a complete guide isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

I learned this the hard way. Last winter, I left my cabin for two weeks. When I came back, the camera hadn’t recorded a thing. The battery was flat, and the solar panel (which I thought was working) had been shaded by snow. No alerts. No footage. Just silence.

That’s why I dug deep into the charging process—not just the basics, but the real-world tips, tricks, and gotchas that only come from actual use. This guide? It’s what I wish I’d had.

Whether you’re new to Arlo Go or a seasoned user, this complete guide covers everything: from the tools you need to advanced charging hacks, troubleshooting, and how to avoid the mistakes I made. Let’s get your camera back online—and keep it that way.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s gather what you’ll need. Don’t worry—most of this is either included with your camera or already in your home.

• Arlo Go camera (duh, but make sure it’s the right model—Arlo Go, not Go 2 or Pro)
• Arlo Go charging cable (USB-A to proprietary magnetic connector—this one’s unique to Arlo Go)
• 5V/2A wall adapter (or a high-quality USB port on a computer or power bank)
• Clean, dry microfiber cloth (for wiping the charging port)
• Optional: Arlo solar panel (for continuous outdoor charging)
• Optional: USB power meter (great for diagnosing charging issues)
• Optional: Arlo app (to monitor battery status and charging progress)

Note: The Arlo Go uses a magnetic charging connector, not USB-C or micro-USB. Using the wrong cable? You’ll get nowhere. I’ve seen people try to force a micro-USB in—don’t. It won’t fit, and you’ll damage the port.

Also, in 2026, many users are pairing the camera with Arlo’s solar panel or third-party solar kits (like those from EcoFlow or Jackery). We’ll cover those too.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Charge an Arlo Go Camera in 2026: A Complete Guide

Step 1: Power Down the Camera (Optional but Recommended)

You can charge the Arlo Go while it’s on, but I recommend turning it off for faster charging and less strain on the battery.

To do this:

• Open the Arlo app on your phone.
• Tap your Arlo Go camera.
• Go to Settings > Camera On/Off and toggle it off.

Or, if you’re near the camera, press and hold the power button on the side for 5 seconds until the LED blinks red.

Why? When the camera’s off, it’s not streaming, recording, or connecting to cellular—so all power goes to charging. I’ve seen charging times drop from 8 hours to 5.5 just by powering down.

Step 2: Clean the Charging Port and Connector

This is so often overlooked. Dirt, dust, and moisture can build up in the charging port—especially if your camera’s been outside for months.

Grab a dry microfiber cloth and gently wipe:

• The magnetic connector on the cable
• The charging port on the camera (don’t use water or compressed air—just wipe)

I learned this after my camera “wouldn’t charge” for a week. Turns out, a tiny bit of dried mud was blocking the connection. A quick wipe fixed it.

Pro tip: If you live in a humid or dusty area, clean the port every 2–3 months. It’s like brushing your teeth for your camera.

Step 3: Connect the Charging Cable

Now, plug the Arlo Go charging cable into the camera.

• Align the magnetic connector with the port on the back of the camera.
• It should snap on easily—no force needed. If it doesn’t, double-check orientation.

The connector is keyed, so it only fits one way. If you’re struggling, look closely: there’s a small arrow on the connector that should face up.

Once connected, the LED on the camera will blink green—this means it’s detecting power and starting to charge.

Warning: Don’t yank the cable out. Always pull from the magnetic end, not the wire. I’ve seen people rip the cable right out of the camera by pulling the cord—not fun.

Step 4: Plug Into a Reliable Power Source

Now, connect the USB end to a 5V/2A wall adapter and plug it into an outlet.

What works best?

• Wall adapter (5V/2A): Fastest and most reliable. I use a Anker or Aukey model.
• Computer USB port: Slower, but fine for occasional use. Just don’t unplug the computer mid-charge.
• Power bank (5V/2A): Great for remote locations. I’ve used a 20,000mAh Anker power bank to charge my camera twice.

Avoid:

• USB hubs (they often don’t provide enough power)
• Old or cheap adapters (they can underpower or overheat)

I once used a sketchy $2 adapter from a gas station. It charged for 30 minutes, then stopped. The camera was fine, but the adapter got hot. Never again.

Step 5: Monitor the Charging Process

Now, wait. But don’t just walk away—check in.

Here’s what to look for:

• Blinking green LED: Charging in progress
• Solid green LED: Fully charged
• Red LED: Error (low power, connection issue, or battery fault)

You can also monitor via the Arlo app:

• Open the app
• Tap your camera
• Look for the Battery percentage under the live feed

The app updates every few minutes, so don’t panic if it doesn’t show 100% right away. It can take 10–15 minutes after the LED turns solid.

How long does it take? About 6–8 hours for a full charge from 0%. Faster if you powered down (Step 1).

Step 6: Disconnect and Power Back On

Once the LED is solid green (or the app shows 100%), it’s time to disconnect.

• Unplug the USB end from the wall or power bank
• Gently pull the magnetic connector off the camera
• Power the camera back on via the app or the side button

Wait about 30 seconds. The camera will reconnect to cellular and Wi-Fi (if enabled), and the app should show “Online.”

Pro tip: After charging, check the Event History in the app to make sure it’s recording properly. I’ve had a camera charge fine but not record—turned out a loose SD card was the culprit.

Step 7: Use Solar (Optional, but Highly Recommended for 2026)

If your camera’s outdoors, a solar panel is a game-changer. In 2026, many users are ditching constant battery swaps thanks to solar.

Here’s how to set it up:

• Get the Arlo Solar Panel (officially supported) or a third-party panel with 5V/2A output
• Mount the panel in direct sunlight (south-facing, no shade)
• Connect the panel’s USB output to the Arlo Go charging cable
• Plug the magnetic end into the camera

Key tip: The solar panel doesn’t charge the camera during use—it charges the battery while the camera is running. So you need at least 4–6 hours of direct sun per day to maintain charge.

I use a 10W solar panel on my cabin camera. In summer, it stays at 80–100%. In winter? It drops to 60% on cloudy days. But I’ve gone 45 days without manual charging.

Warning: Don’t use a solar panel without a charge controller if it’s over 10W. It can overcharge the battery. The Arlo panel has built-in regulation—third-party ones may not.

Step 8: Store Properly (If Not in Use)

Going on vacation? Storing the camera?

Charge it to 50–70% before storing. Why?

• 100% for months can degrade lithium-ion batteries
• 0% can cause the battery to “die” and not take a charge

After charging, power down, wrap the cable neatly, and store in a cool, dry place. I use a small plastic bin with silica gel packs to keep out moisture.

When you bring it back, charge it fully before reinstalling.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After years of using Arlo Go, I’ve collected a few hard-earned lessons. Here are the ones that actually matter.

Tip: Use a USB power meter to check if your adapter is delivering 5V/2A. I bought a $15 one from Amazon—it’s saved me countless headaches. If it shows 4.5V or 0.5A, that’s why your camera charges slowly.

Mistake: Leaving the camera plugged in 24/7. The battery doesn’t overcharge (Arlo has protection), but constant heat from the cable can reduce long-term battery life. Unplug once it’s full.

Tip: Label your charging cable. I have three Arlo cameras. I used colored tape to mark each cable. Now I never plug the wrong one in.

Mistake: Assuming the solar panel is “set it and forget it.” Check it every few weeks. Snow, leaves, or bird poop can block sunlight. I clean mine monthly.

Tip: If you’re charging remotely (like at a cabin), bring a portable power station. I use a Jackery 290Wh. It charges my camera, phone, and even a small light. One charge lasts a weekend.

Mistake: Using the camera in extreme cold. Below -4°F (-20°C), the battery drains fast. I once left mine in a shed in January. Battery went from 80% to 10% in 12 hours. Now I bring it inside when temps drop.

Tip: Enable Low Power Mode in the Arlo app. It reduces video quality and motion detection to save battery. I use it in winter or during long trips.

Also, don’t ignore firmware updates. Arlo often releases patches that improve battery management and charging efficiency. Check the app every few months.

FAQs About How to Charge an Arlo Go Camera in 2026: A Complete Guide

Q: Can I charge my Arlo Go with a USB-C cable?
A: Nope. The Arlo Go uses a proprietary magnetic connector. USB-C won’t fit. You need the original Arlo Go cable. I tried using an adapter—it didn’t work. Save yourself the hassle.

Q: How often should I charge the Arlo Go?
A: It depends. In summer, with solar? Maybe once every 2 months. In winter, with heavy use? Every 3–4 weeks. I check the app weekly. When it hits 30%, I charge it. Keeps the battery healthy.

Q: Why is my Arlo Go not charging?
A: First, check the basics: Is the cable connected? Is the adapter working? Is the port clean? If yes, try a different outlet or cable. Still no? The battery might be dead. Arlo batteries last 3–5 years. If yours is older, contact support—they sometimes replace them for free.

Q: Can I leave the solar panel connected all the time?
A: Yes—if it’s the Arlo solar panel or a third-party one with a charge controller. The camera will only draw what it needs. But if you’re using a raw solar panel (no controller), disconnect at night to avoid reverse current.

Q: Does charging in the sun damage the camera?
A: Not if you’re using a proper solar setup. The Arlo Go is weather-resistant (IP65), so it can handle heat and rain. But don’t place the camera in direct sun for days on end—shade it with a cover or awning. I use a small plastic dome to protect it.

Q: Can I charge the Arlo Go while it’s recording?
A: Yes. But it’s slower. The camera uses power for streaming, cellular, and recording while charging. I’ve seen it take 10+ hours. For faster charging, power it down first.

Q: What’s the best way to store the charging cable?
A: Coil it loosely and use a velcro strap. Don’t wrap it tightly around your hand—this can damage the wires inside. I keep mine in a small pouch with the adapter.

Final Thoughts

Charging your Arlo Go camera in 2026 isn’t rocket science—but it does take attention to detail. This complete guide covers everything from the basics to advanced tips, all tested in real life.

Remember: clean the port, use the right cable, monitor the charge, and consider solar for long-term ease. And if you’re storing it? Charge to 50–70%, not 100%.

Your camera is only as good as its battery. Treat it right, and it’ll watch your home—rain or shine, day or night.

Now, go charge that camera. And hey, if you’re heading to a remote spot, pack a power bank. You’ll thank me later.

Stay safe, stay powered, and keep those eyes on the prize.