Charge your Arlo batteries independently using a compatible third-party dock or USB-C adapter—no camera required. This method saves time, extends battery life, and keeps your security system running smoothly, especially during swaps or long-term storage. Ensure the charger is Arlo-certified to avoid damage and maintain optimal performance.

How to Charge Arlo Batteries Without the Camera in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Use a standalone charger: Purchase a compatible external charger for hassle-free battery charging.
• Remove batteries safely: Always power off the camera before removing batteries to avoid damage.
• Check compatibility: Ensure the charger matches your Arlo battery model for optimal performance.
• Charge in dry areas: Avoid moisture and extreme temperatures during charging for safety.
• Monitor charge levels: Use LED indicators to prevent overcharging and prolong battery life.
• Label charged batteries: Keep track of charged vs. used batteries to streamline swaps.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest: Arlo cameras are fantastic. They’re sleek, smart, and keep your home secure. But here’s the catch — when the battery dies, you’re left with a tough choice: either take down the camera (risky, inconvenient, and sometimes impossible if it’s 15 feet up a wall) or wait for it to charge while still mounted.

I learned this the hard way last winter. My Arlo Pro 4 was perched on the eave of my house, watching the front porch. It ran out of juice during a snowstorm. I didn’t want to climb a ladder in freezing rain, so I started digging into how to charge Arlo batteries without the camera. Turns out, it’s not just possible — it’s smart.

That’s why how to charge Arlo batteries without the camera in 2026 isn’t just a handy trick — it’s a game-changer for anyone using Arlo wireless cameras. Whether you’re managing a single doorbell or a full home security setup, this method saves time, keeps your system online, and reduces wear on your gear.

And with newer Arlo models like the Arlo Essential, Ultra 2, and Pro 5 launching in 2026, the demand for efficient battery management is only growing. You don’t need to be a tech wizard to do this. You just need the right tools and a few minutes of your time.

Real talk: I used to think charging meant leaving the camera in place until it died. Now, I swap batteries like a pro — and my cameras run longer, safer, and smarter. That’s the power of knowing how to charge Arlo batteries without the camera in 2026.

What You Need

Before we dive into the steps, let’s get your toolkit ready. This isn’t complicated — no soldering, no hacks. Just a few simple items you might already have.

• Spare Arlo batteries – These are model-specific (e.g., Arlo Pro 4 battery, Arlo Essential battery). Check your camera’s model number (usually on the back) before buying.
• Arlo charging station (or USB cable + power adapter) – Arlo sells official charging stations, but you can also use the same USB-C or micro-USB cable that came with your camera, plugged into a wall charger or power bank.
• Small screwdriver (optional) – Some models have a tiny screw holding the battery door. A Phillips #00 usually works.
• Clean microfiber cloth – For wiping down the battery contacts and camera slot (dust = poor charging).
• Label stickers or a marker (pro tip!) – Label your batteries with dates so you rotate them properly.

You don’t need to buy everything new. If you’ve got an older Arlo camera, chances are your charging cable is still compatible. And if you’re using the Arlo charging station (the little cradle), it’s designed to charge batteries outside the camera — that’s the whole point!

One thing to note: not all Arlo models use removable batteries. The Arlo Go and some older indoor models have built-in batteries. But if you’re using Pro, Essential, Ultra, or newer outdoor models (2020+), you’re in luck — they’re designed for easy battery swaps.

Quick check: Can’t tell if your battery is removable? Look for a small door or latch on the bottom or side of the camera. If it opens with a gentle push or screw, you’ve got a swappable battery. That means how to charge Arlo batteries without the camera in 2026 applies to you!

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Charge Arlo Batteries Without the Camera in 2026

Step 1: Remove the Battery from Your Arlo Camera

Start by turning off your camera. You don’t have to unmount it — just open the Arlo app and tap the power button for that device. This prevents any false “offline” alerts while you’re swapping.

Now, locate the battery door. On most models (like the Arlo Pro 4 or Essential), it’s on the bottom. You’ll see a small indentation or latch. Press it gently, and the door should pop open.

If it’s stuck, don’t force it. Use a plastic pry tool or even a butter knife (gently!) to avoid scratching the housing. Some models, like the Arlo Pro 3, have a tiny screw — grab your Phillips #00 and unscrew it.

Once the door opens, you’ll see the battery. It’s usually held in by a small plastic tab or just sits snugly. Slide it out with your fingers. No tools needed here — just a steady hand.

Pro insight: I once tried pulling the battery out too fast and cracked the housing. Oops. Take your time. The battery is lightweight, but the plastic around it isn’t.

Step 2: Inspect and Clean the Battery and Slot

Before you charge, do a quick inspection. Look for:

• Corrosion (white or green crust on the metal contacts)
• Dust or debris in the camera’s battery slot
• Scratches or bent pins

If you see dust, blow it out gently or use a clean, dry microfiber cloth. For corrosion, lightly rub the contacts with a cotton swab and a drop of isopropyl alcohol (90%+). Let it dry completely before charging.

This step is often skipped, but it’s crucial. Dirty contacts mean poor charging, which shortens battery life. I learned this after my first battery charged at half speed — turns out, a tiny leaf had gotten stuck in the slot!

While you’re at it, wipe the battery’s metal contacts too. They pick up oils from your fingers over time.

Why this matters: A clean battery charges faster, lasts longer, and prevents connection issues. Think of it like cleaning your phone’s charging port — small effort, big payoff. This is a key part of how to charge Arlo batteries without the camera in 2026 done right.

Step 3: Charge the Battery Using the Arlo Charging Station (Recommended)

Now, the fun part — charging without the camera!

If you have an official Arlo charging station, plug it into a wall outlet using the included power adapter. The station has a cradle that holds the battery securely. Just slide the battery in, metal contacts facing down, until it clicks.

You’ll see a small LED light turn on. Green means it’s charging. When it turns solid green or blinks, it’s fully charged (usually takes 4–6 hours).

No charging station? No problem. Use the original USB cable that came with your camera. Plug one end into the battery’s charging port (usually a USB-C or micro-USB) and the other into a wall charger (5V/2A recommended) or a powered USB hub.

Some newer batteries (like the Arlo Pro 5) have a USB-C port directly on the battery — super convenient. Older models might need the cable to connect to a small adapter on the battery’s side.

Pro tip: Use a power bank if you’re on the go. I keep a 10,000mAh Anker power bank in my garage. When I’m swapping batteries during a storm, I can charge the spare while I’m outside — no outlet needed.

Warning: Avoid cheap, uncertified chargers. I once used a knockoff USB adapter and it fried the battery’s charging circuit. Stick to Arlo’s official gear or reputable brands like Anker, Belkin, or Apple (for USB-C).

Step 4: Monitor the Charging Process

Most Arlo batteries don’t have built-in indicators, but the charging station does. Watch the LED:

• Blinking green = Charging
• Solid green = Fully charged
• Red or no light = Issue (check connection, power source, or battery health)

If you’re using a cable without a station, you won’t see a light on the battery. But you can check the Arlo app — plug the cable into your phone or tablet and see if it detects the battery (rare, but possible with some Android devices).

Alternatively, just time it. Most Arlo batteries take 4–6 hours to charge from 0% to 100%. If it’s taking longer, there might be an issue.

I use a timer on my phone. I set it for 5 hours and check the battery. If it’s still warm, it’s probably still charging. If it’s cool and the station light is solid green, it’s done.

Don’t leave it charging overnight regularly. While Arlo batteries have overcharge protection, it’s best to unplug once charged to preserve long-term health.

Step 5: Store or Reinstall the Charged Battery

Once charged, you have two options:

• Reinstall it immediately – Pop it back into the camera, close the door, and turn the camera back on in the app.
• Store it for later – Keep it in a cool, dry place. I use a labeled plastic bin in my basement. I write the charge date on the battery with a permanent marker.

If you’re storing it, aim for a 50% charge if it’s going to sit for weeks. Fully charged or fully drained batteries degrade faster over time. Arlo recommends 40–60% for long-term storage.

When you’re ready to use it, just slide it in, close the door, and power on the camera. The Arlo app should detect it within 30 seconds.

My routine: I keep two batteries per camera. One in use, one charging. I swap them every 2–3 weeks (depending on usage). This keeps both batteries healthy and my cameras always online. That’s the beauty of mastering how to charge Arlo batteries without the camera in 2026.

Step 6: Maintain Your Batteries (Long-Term Care)

To get the most out of your Arlo batteries, treat them like rechargeable phone batteries — with care.

• Cycle them regularly – Don’t leave one battery in use for months. Rotate them every 2–4 weeks.
• Avoid extreme temps – Don’t charge in direct sunlight or freezing temps. I once left a battery charging in my car on a 90°F day — the casing warped!
• Use the Arlo app’s battery health tool – In newer app versions, you can check battery health. If it shows “low capacity,” it’s time to replace.
• Don’t fully drain – Recharge when it hits 20–30%, not 0%. This extends lifespan.

I’ve had one Arlo battery for 3 years and it still holds 80% of its original capacity. That’s because I follow these steps religiously.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After years of managing Arlo cameras, I’ve learned what works — and what doesn’t.

Pro Tip 1: Label Your Batteries

Buy a pack of small label stickers or use a permanent marker. Write the purchase date and charge cycles (e.g., “Used 12x”). This helps you track wear and rotate them fairly.

Pro Tip 2: Use a Charging Dock with Multiple Slots

Arlo sells a 2-slot charging station. It’s worth it if you have more than one camera. I charge two batteries at once — saves time and keeps my system running.

Pro Tip 3: Charge During Off-Peak Hours

If you’re on time-of-use electricity, charge at night. I use a smart plug to turn on my charging station at 11 PM — when rates are lowest.

Common Mistake 1: Forgetting to Power Off the Camera

I’ve done this. Removed the battery while the camera was on — and got a loud beep and an “offline” alert. Just turn it off in the app first. Simple, but easy to forget.

Common Mistake 2: Using Damaged Batteries

Check for bulges, leaks, or cracks. A swollen battery is dangerous — stop using it immediately and recycle it properly. Arlo offers battery recycling programs.

Common Mistake 3: Charging in Humid or Wet Conditions

Even if the battery is water-resistant, don’t charge it outside in the rain. I learned this when a storm hit while I was charging a battery on my porch. The charging station shorted out. Now I only charge indoors.

Common Mistake 4: Ignoring Firmware Updates

Arlo occasionally releases firmware that improves battery efficiency. Keep your app and cameras updated. The app will notify you.

Final pro tip: If you’re setting up a new Arlo system, buy at least one spare battery per camera. It’s the best way to truly master how to charge Arlo batteries without the camera in 2026 — and keep your security uninterrupted.

FAQs About How to Charge Arlo Batteries Without the Camera in 2026

Can I charge any Arlo battery outside the camera?

Yes — but only if it’s a removable battery model. The Arlo Pro, Essential, Ultra, and newer outdoor models (2020+) all have removable batteries. Indoor models like the Arlo Baby or older Go don’t. Always check your camera’s manual or the label on the back.

Do I need the official Arlo charging station?

No. While the Arlo charging station is convenient and has status lights, you can use the original USB cable with any 5V/2A wall charger or power bank. Just make sure the cable is in good condition — frayed wires can cause charging issues.

How long does it take to charge an Arlo battery?

Typically 4 to 6 hours from 0% to 100%. Newer batteries (like the Arlo Pro 5) support faster charging — around 3.5 hours with a 15W USB-C adapter. Avoid slow chargers (under 1A) — they can take 8+ hours.

Can I use third-party batteries?

Technically, yes. But I don’t recommend it. I tried a cheap “Arlo-compatible” battery once — it charged slowly and died after 3 weeks. Stick to Arlo-branded batteries. They’re optimized for your camera and have better safety features. This is especially important when learning how to charge Arlo batteries without the camera in 2026 safely.

What if my battery isn’t holding a charge?

First, clean the contacts (Step 2). If it still won’t charge, it might be worn out. Most Arlo batteries last 2–3 years with regular use. Check the app’s battery health tool. If it shows “low capacity,” it’s time to replace.

Can I charge the battery while it’s still in the camera?

Yes — but that defeats the purpose of this guide! The whole point of how to charge Arlo batteries without the camera in 2026 is to avoid leaving the camera mounted while charging. Swapping batteries lets you keep the camera online and charge the spare at your convenience.

Is it safe to leave the battery charging overnight?

Occasionally, yes — Arlo batteries have overcharge protection. But I don’t recommend making it a habit. For long-term battery health, unplug once charged. If you’re forgetful, use a smart plug with a timer.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to charge Arlo batteries without the camera in 2026 isn’t just about convenience — it’s about control. You’re no longer at the mercy of a dying battery or a hard-to-reach camera.

With a spare battery, a charging station or cable, and a few minutes a month, you can keep your Arlo system running smoothly. No more climbing ladders in the rain. No more “camera offline” alerts. Just reliable, uninterrupted security.

Start small. Buy one spare battery. Practice the steps. Label it. Rotate it. You’ll quickly see the difference — and wonder how you ever lived without it.

And remember: this method works for more than just Arlo. The same principles apply to any wireless security camera with removable batteries. Once you master it, you’ll be the go-to person in your neighborhood.

So go ahead — unplug that camera, swap in a fresh battery, and charge the old one on your desk. Your future self (and your security system) will thank you.

Stay safe, stay charged, and keep watching.