Charging your Arlo Pro 4 camera is simple and flexible—use the included USB-C cable with a weather-resistant charging port for fast, reliable power. Whether you’re charging indoors or outdoors, the magnetic charging cable ensures a secure connection, and you can even pair it with a solar panel for continuous, eco-friendly energy. Perfect for keeping your security system running 24/7 with minimal downtime.

How to Charge Arlo Pro 4 Camera in 2026: Easy Guide

Key Takeaways

• Use the included USB-C cable for fastest, most reliable charging.
• Charge indoors or under cover to protect from weather damage.
• Monitor battery via Arlo app to know when charging is needed.
• Avoid third-party chargers to prevent battery or camera issues.
• Remove battery easily for convenient charging outside the camera.
• Fully charge before first use to maximize battery lifespan.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

You just set up your brand-new Arlo Pro 4 camera—maybe it’s guarding your front porch, watching over your backyard, or keeping an eye on your garage. You’re feeling proud. Then, two weeks later, the app pings: “Low battery.” Panic sets in. You didn’t realize charging it would be a puzzle.

Unlike wired security cameras, the Arlo Pro 4 is wire-free. That means it runs on a rechargeable battery. And while that gives you flexibility in placement, it also means you’ll need to know how to charge Arlo Pro 4 camera in 2026 easy guide—especially if you want to avoid blind spots in your home security.

Let me be honest: I’ve been there. I once missed a delivery because my camera died mid-week. No motion alerts. No video. Just silence. After that, I dove deep into the best ways to keep my Arlo Pro 4 powered—and I’ve tested every method under real-life conditions.

This guide isn’t just about plugging in a charger. It’s about reliable, hassle-free charging that fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re a busy parent, a remote worker, or a tech-savvy homeowner, you’ll find a method that works. And yes, this guide is updated for 2026, so you’re getting the latest tips, tools, and tricks.

What You Need

Before we dive into the steps, let’s get your toolkit ready. You don’t need much—just a few essentials. Here’s what I use (and recommend):

• Arlo Pro 4 camera (obviously)
• Arlo Magnetic Charging Cable (USB-C) – this is the official cable that comes with the camera. I’ve tried third-party ones, but they’re hit-or-miss.
• USB-C wall adapter – any 5V/2A or higher adapter works. I use a 30W one for faster charging.
• Power bank (optional) – great for charging on the go or during power outages.
• Solar panel (optional) – if you want a hands-off, eco-friendly solution. I use the Arlo Solar Panel, but third-party ones work too.
• Indoor charging station or shelf – a safe, dry spot near an outlet where you can store the camera while charging.
• Microfiber cloth – to clean the camera lens and charging contacts before charging.

You’ll also want the Arlo app (iOS or Android) to monitor battery levels and get notifications. And if you’re using the Arlo SmartHub, make sure it’s connected to your Wi-Fi.

Pro Tip: Keep your charging gear in one place—like a labeled bin in your laundry room or garage. I used to lose the magnetic cable all the time. Now, it’s always where I need it.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Charge Arlo Pro 4 Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

Step 1: Check the Battery Level in the Arlo App

First things first: don’t wait for a “low battery” alert. Open the Arlo app and check your camera’s battery percentage.

Go to Devices > Select your Arlo Pro 4 > Battery. You’ll see the current level, estimated time until empty, and charging status.

I recommend charging when the battery hits 20–30%. This keeps the battery healthy and avoids sudden shutdowns. Think of it like charging your phone—don’t drain it to 0% every time.

Pro tip: Set a weekly reminder in your phone to check battery levels. I do it every Sunday morning with my coffee.

Warning: If the battery drops below 10%, the camera may stop recording. That’s a big security risk—especially if you’re away.

Step 2: Remove the Camera from Its Mount

The Arlo Pro 4 uses a magnetic wall mount. To remove it, simply pull the camera straight off. It’s designed to be quick and tool-free.

I’ve seen people try to unscrew it—don’t do that! The mount has a quick-release mechanism. Just tug gently, and it comes off.

Hold the camera securely. It’s not heavy, but the lens can scratch if you drop it.

Once removed, I like to wipe the charging contacts (the small metal dots on the back) with a microfiber cloth. Dust or dirt can interfere with charging.

Pro Tip: Keep a small cleaning kit near your charging station. A quick wipe takes 10 seconds and prevents charging issues.

Step 3: Connect the Magnetic Charging Cable

Now, grab your Arlo Magnetic Charging Cable. Plug the USB-C end into your wall adapter or power bank.

Then, bring the magnetic end close to the back of the camera. It’ll snap into place automatically—no fiddling with ports.

The magnetic connection is strong, but not unbreakable. Don’t hang the camera by the cable. I learned that the hard way when my cat knocked it over. (Thankfully, the camera survived.)

Once connected, a small LED light on the camera will glow orange—that means it’s charging. When it turns green, the battery is full.

Charging time: about 2–3 hours from 0% to 100%, depending on your power source.

Warning: Avoid using low-power USB ports (like on a laptop or TV). They charge too slowly and may not keep up with the camera’s needs.

Step 4: Monitor the Charging Process

While the camera charges, check the Arlo app for real-time updates. You’ll see the battery percentage rise and an estimated time to full charge.

I like to leave mine charging on a shelf near my router. That way, if it finishes early, I can re-mount it quickly.

Don’t leave it charging overnight unless you’re using a smart outlet or timer. Overcharging isn’t dangerous (the camera stops drawing power at 100%), but it’s wasteful.

If you’re using a power bank, make sure it has enough juice. A 10,000mAh power bank can fully charge the Arlo Pro 4 about 1.5 times.

Pro Tip: Use a smart plug to schedule charging. Set it to turn on at 2 PM and off at 5 PM—perfect for a mid-day top-up.

Step 5: Re-Mount the Camera

When the LED turns green and the app shows 100%, disconnect the cable.

Before re-mounting, take a moment to clean the lens with a microfiber cloth. Dust, rain, or fingerprints can blur your video.

Then, align the camera with the magnetic mount and push it on. You’ll feel it click into place.

Double-check that it’s secure. Give it a gentle wiggle. If it moves, it’s not fully seated.

Now, check the app: your camera should show “Online” and “100% Battery.”

Warning: Don’t charge the camera while it’s mounted outdoors. Moisture can get into the charging port and damage the camera.

Step 6: Use Solar Charging (Optional but Smart)

If you want a hands-off charging solution, consider the Arlo Solar Panel (or a compatible third-party one).

Attach the solar panel to the same magnetic mount as your camera. It sits above or beside the camera, facing the sun.

Connect the solar panel to the camera using the magnetic cable. The panel charges the camera’s battery directly—no need to remove it.

I use this on my backyard camera. It gets 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily, and I’ve never had to manually charge it in 8 months.

But here’s the catch: solar works best in sunny climates. If you live in a cloudy area, it may only provide a partial charge. Use it as a supplement, not a replacement.

Also, clean the solar panel monthly. Dirt and bird droppings reduce efficiency.

Pro Tip: Pair solar charging with a weekly battery check. Even with solar, occasional manual charging ensures peak performance.

Step 7: Optimize Charging for Multiple Cameras

Got more than one Arlo Pro 4? You’re not alone. I have four—front, back, garage, and side yard.

To avoid chaos, I use a charging rotation system:

• Label each camera (I use colored stickers).
• Charge one every 2–3 days.
• Keep a charging log in a notebook or app.

I also use multi-port USB hubs to charge two cameras at once. Just make sure the hub delivers enough power (2.4A per port).

Another trick: assign each camera a “charging day” (e.g., Monday, Wednesday, Friday). That way, you never forget.

Warning: Don’t charge all cameras at once unless you have a dedicated circuit. Overloading can trip breakers.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After years of using the Arlo Pro 4, I’ve learned what works—and what doesn’t. Here are my top insights for how to charge Arlo Pro 4 camera in 2026 easy guide:

• Use the official magnetic cable. Third-party cables often don’t fit well or charge slowly. I tried a cheap one once—it took 6 hours to charge 50%.
• Don’t charge in extreme temperatures. Below 32°F or above 104°F? Skip it. Cold slows charging; heat damages the battery.
• Clean the charging contacts monthly. I use a cotton swab with 90% isopropyl alcohol. It removes grime and ensures a solid connection.
• Avoid charging during storms. Lightning can fry electronics. If a storm’s coming, unplug everything.
• Upgrade your SmartHub firmware. Arlo releases updates that improve battery management. Check for updates monthly.
• Use a surge protector. Power spikes can damage the camera or charger. I use a $20 surge protector—worth every penny.
• Don’t rely on motion detection to save battery. It helps, but it’s not a substitute for regular charging.

Real-Life Scenario: My neighbor left his camera charging during a heatwave. The battery swelled and stopped working. He had to buy a new one. Now, he charges indoors—even in summer.

Pro Tip: If you’re going on vacation, charge all cameras fully and enable “Low Power Mode” in the app. It reduces video quality but extends battery life by 30–50%.

FAQs About How to Charge Arlo Pro 4 Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

Q: Can I charge the Arlo Pro 4 with a regular USB-C cable?

Yes, but only if it’s magnetic and designed for Arlo. The camera has a proprietary magnetic connection. A standard USB-C cable won’t attach securely. I tried it once—it kept falling off. Stick with the Arlo magnetic cable for reliability.

Q: How long does the battery last on a full charge?

It depends. With normal use (10–15 motion events per day), I get 2–3 months. In winter, with more activity and colder temps, it’s closer to 1 month. The Arlo app gives you an estimate based on your usage.

Q: Can I leave the camera charging all the time?

Technically, yes—but I don’t recommend it. The battery stops charging at 100%, but leaving it plugged in can degrade the battery over time. For long-term health, charge it, then unplug.

Q: What if the camera won’t charge?

First, check the connections. Clean the charging contacts. Try a different cable or power source. If it still won’t charge, the battery might be dead. Arlo sells replacement batteries, or you can contact support.

Q: Is solar charging worth it?

Absolutely—if you have good sun exposure. I save about 3 hours a month in manual charging. But if you live in a rainy or cloudy area, it may not be enough. Pair it with occasional manual charging for best results.

Q: Can I charge the camera while it’s recording?

Yes, but only if it’s indoors and connected to the charger. The camera can record while charging, but the motion detection range may be reduced due to the cable. I don’t recommend it for critical monitoring.

Q: How do I know if my charging cable is faulty?

If the camera charges slowly, doesn’t charge at all, or the LED blinks erratically, the cable might be bad. Try a different one. Arlo offers replacements for $20—cheaper than a new camera.

Final Thoughts

Charging your Arlo Pro 4 doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right tools and a simple routine, you can keep your home secure without the stress of dead batteries.

Remember: how to charge Arlo Pro 4 camera in 2026 easy guide isn’t just about plugging in a cable. It’s about smart habits—checking battery levels, cleaning contacts, using solar when possible, and avoiding common pitfalls.

Start with one camera. Master the process. Then scale up to multiple units. And if you’re feeling fancy, add a solar panel for a truly low-maintenance setup.

Your home’s safety is worth the effort. And once you get into the rhythm, charging becomes second nature—like brushing your teeth or feeding the dog.

Now go charge that camera. Your future self (and your home security) will thank you.