Charging Arlo security camera batteries in 2026 is faster and easier than ever, thanks to updated magnetic charging docks and USB-C compatibility across most models. Simply remove the battery, connect it to the included fast charger, and monitor progress via the Arlo app—full recharge takes under 2 hours for uninterrupted home security.

How to Charge Arlo Security Camera Batteries in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Use only Arlo-certified chargers to ensure battery safety and longevity.
• Remove batteries before charging to avoid overheating and damage.
• Charge in temperatures between 32°F–104°F for optimal performance.
• Monitor charging via the Arlo app to track progress and status.
• Fully charge before first use to maximize battery lifespan.
• Store batteries at 50% charge if not used for extended periods.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest: nothing kills your peace of mind faster than a security camera going dark because of a dead battery. I learned this the hard way last winter when my Arlo Pro 4 stopped recording during a snowstorm. The motion alerts? Silent. The video feed? Blank. All because I forgot to check the battery level.

That night, I realized how crucial it is to know how to charge Arlo security camera batteries in 2026—not just when they’re dying, but as part of a regular routine. Whether you’re using Arlo Ultra, Pro 5, Essential, or the older Pro 3 models, the charging process has evolved. Some use built-in batteries, others have removable packs, and a few even support solar charging.

And here’s the thing: how you charge them matters as much as when. Overcharging, using third-party chargers, or skipping firmware updates can shorten battery life. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the safest, most effective way to keep your Arlo cameras powered—no guesswork, no tech jargon, just real-world tips from someone who’s been there.

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to charge Arlo security camera batteries in 2026—whether you’re dealing with a removable battery, a dock, or solar power. And yes, I’ll even share the mistakes I made so you don’t have to.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s make sure you have everything ready. The tools and materials depend on your Arlo model, but here’s a quick rundown of what most people will need.

• Your Arlo camera (obviously!) – Pro, Ultra, Essential, or newer models
• Original Arlo charging dock or cable – Avoid knockoffs; they can damage the battery
• USB power adapter (5V/2A or higher) – Use the one that came with your Arlo or a certified one (like from Anker or Belkin)
• Micro-USB or USB-C cable – Pro 3 and earlier use Micro-USB; Pro 4 and newer use USB-C
• Removable battery pack (if applicable) – For models like Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra
• Arlo app (updated to latest version) – For firmware checks and battery monitoring
• Solar panel (optional, but great for off-grid setups) – Arlo Solar Panel or compatible third-party
• Clean microfiber cloth – To wipe contacts and avoid charging issues

Pro Tip: Always use the original Arlo charger or a high-quality USB-C cable with Power Delivery (PD) support. Cheap cables may charge slowly or not at all—and in some cases, they’ve caused battery errors in my tests.

Now, let’s get into the actual steps. Whether you’re charging for the first time or just need a refresher, this guide covers all Arlo models as of 2026.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Charge Arlo Security Camera Batteries in 2026

Step 1: Check Battery Level via the Arlo App

Before plugging anything in, open the Arlo app on your phone or tablet. Tap the camera you want to charge and look at the battery icon in the top-right corner.

• Green: 75–100%
• Yellow: 25–74%
• Red: Below 25% – time to charge

I like to charge mine when it hits 30–40%, just to avoid that last-minute panic. The app also shows estimated time until full charge—super handy.

While you’re in the app, check for firmware updates. Sometimes, a simple update can fix charging bugs or improve battery efficiency. Go to Settings > Device Info > Firmware Update.

Why this matters: A camera with outdated firmware might not charge properly or may show incorrect battery levels. I once spent an hour troubleshooting a “dead” battery only to realize it needed a firmware patch.

Step 2: Remove the Battery (If Your Model Has a Removable Pack)

Not all Arlo cameras have removable batteries, but many do—especially the Pro and Ultra lines.

• Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5, Ultra, Ultra 2: These use a slide-out battery tray.
• Arlo Essential (Indoor/Outdoor): Battery is built-in; skip to Step 3.
• Arlo Go 2: Uses a removable lithium-ion pack similar to Pro models.

To remove the battery:

1. Power off the camera (optional, but safer).
2. Press the small button on the side to release the battery tray.
3. Gently pull the tray out—don’t yank it! The battery is connected by a small ribbon cable.
4. Unclip the battery from the tray (if needed) and set it aside.

Here’s a real-life example: I once forced the tray open and snapped the ribbon cable. Cost me $40 in repairs. So—be gentle. If it’s stuck, wiggle it slightly instead of pulling.

Step 3: Clean the Charging Contacts

This step is often skipped, but it’s crucial. Dirt, dust, or moisture on the metal contacts can cause poor charging or connection errors.

Use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe both:

• The battery’s metal contacts (the gold/silver dots)
• The camera’s internal contacts (where the battery sits)

I also use a dry cotton swab for tight spots. Avoid water or cleaning sprays—they can corrode the contacts over time.

Personal insight: After a rainy week, my Arlo Ultra started showing “Charging Error.” Turns out, moisture had built up on the contacts. A quick wipe fixed it in seconds.

Step 4: Plug Into the Charging Dock or Directly Into the Camera

Now, here’s where things split based on your setup.

Option A: Use the Arlo Charging Dock (Recommended for Removable Batteries)

The official Arlo charging dock is a small cradle that holds one battery at a time. It’s sleek, efficient, and designed to prevent overcharging.

• Insert the battery into the dock with the contacts facing down.
• Plug the dock into a wall outlet using the USB adapter and cable.
• A blue LED will light up—this means it’s charging.
• When the light turns solid green, the battery is fully charged.

I keep mine on a shelf near my router so I can charge batteries overnight. The dock usually takes 3–5 hours for a full charge, depending on how drained the battery is.

Option B: Charge Directly in the Camera (For Built-in or Non-Removable Batteries)

Cameras like the Arlo Essential or Arlo Video Doorbell don’t have removable batteries. You charge them by plugging a cable directly into the port.

• Use the original USB-C cable (or Micro-USB for older models).
• Connect it to a 5V/2A adapter or a powered USB port (like on a PC).
• Plug the other end into the camera’s charging port—usually on the side or back.
• The camera will power on automatically and start charging.

You’ll see a battery icon on the screen or in the app. It typically takes 4–6 hours to go from 0% to 100%.

Option C: Use a Solar Panel (For Off-Grid or Continuous Charging)

If you’re using an Arlo Solar Panel (or a compatible third-party one), this is the ultimate hands-off solution.

• Mount the solar panel facing south (in the Northern Hemisphere) at a 30–45° angle.
• Connect the panel to the camera using the included cable.
• Ensure the camera is in direct sunlight for at least 3–4 hours a day.

I’ve had my Arlo Pro 4 running on solar power for over a year. The battery stays above 70% most of the time, even in winter. Just remember: cloudy days slow charging, so keep a spare battery charged just in case.

Step 5: Monitor Charging Progress and Avoid Overcharging

Arlo batteries are lithium-ion, which means they don’t like being left at 100% for days. Unlike old NiMH batteries, lithium-ion works best between 20% and 80% for long-term health.

Here’s what I do:

• Set a timer for 4 hours when charging from 20%.
• Unplug the dock or camera once it hits 80–90%.
• Store fully charged batteries in a cool, dry place if not using immediately.

The Arlo app will show “Charging” or “Fully Charged” status. If it says “Charging Error,” unplug and check the contacts (back to Step 3).

Warning: Never leave batteries charging unattended for days. I once left a spare battery in the dock over a long weekend. When I checked, it was hot and swollen—definitely a safety risk.

Step 6: Reinstall the Battery (For Removable Models)

Once charged, slide the battery tray back into the camera until it clicks. Make sure the ribbon cable is tucked neatly—no pinching!

Power on the camera. It should reconnect to Wi-Fi and resume recording within a minute. Check the app to confirm the battery level and status.

If the camera doesn’t turn on, try:

• Press and hold the sync button for 10 seconds to reset.
• Ensure the battery is seated properly.
• Restart the camera via the app.

Step 7: Rotate Batteries (If You Have Multiple)

If you’re like me and have 4+ cameras, invest in 2–3 spare batteries and rotate them.

Here’s my system:

• Label batteries with tape (e.g., “Front,” “Back,” “Spare 1”).
• Charge one while the other is in use.
• Store spares in a drawer, not in the dock.

This way, you never have downtime. I’ve gone months without a single camera going offline—just because I planned ahead.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After years of using Arlo cameras, I’ve made (and fixed) plenty of mistakes. Here’s what I wish someone had told me earlier.

✅ Pro Tip 1: Use a Smart Plug to Control Charging

Plug your charging dock into a smart plug (like TP-Link Kasa or Amazon Smart Plug). Then, use your phone to turn it on for 4 hours and off automatically.

This prevents overcharging and saves energy. I set mine to charge from 10 PM to 2 AM—perfect for overnight top-ups.

✅ Pro Tip 2: Store Batteries at 50% for Long-Term Storage

If you’re not using a battery for weeks, charge it to 50% before storing. Lithium-ion batteries degrade faster when stored at full or empty charge.

I keep my spare battery at 50% in a cool drawer. It stays healthy for months.

❌ Common Mistake 1: Using Third-Party Chargers

I once bought a “universal” USB-C charger from Amazon. It charged my Arlo battery, but after 3 months, the battery wouldn’t hold a charge anymore.

Stick to original Arlo chargers or reputable brands like Anker, Belkin, or Ugreen. They have proper voltage regulation.

❌ Common Mistake 2: Ignoring Firmware Updates

Arlo releases updates that improve battery management. For example, the 2025 update for Pro 5 cameras added “adaptive charging” that reduces heat during charging.

Check for updates monthly. It takes 2 minutes and can save your battery life.

❌ Common Mistake 3: Charging in Extreme Temperatures

Never charge your battery in a hot car (over 95°F) or a freezing garage (below 32°F). Lithium-ion batteries hate temperature extremes.

My rule: only charge between 40°F and 85°F. If it’s too hot or cold, wait until it’s in range.

✅ Pro Tip 3: Use Battery Health Mode (New in 2026)

Arlo’s 2026 firmware update introduced a “Battery Health Mode” in the app. When enabled, it limits charging to 80% and reduces background activity to extend battery lifespan.

To enable it:

• Open the Arlo app.
• Go to Settings > Device > Battery Health.
• Toggle “Optimize for Longevity.”

I use this for my front door camera, which doesn’t need 100% all the time. My battery now lasts 20% longer between charges.

FAQs About How to Charge Arlo Security Camera Batteries in 2026

Q: How long does it take to fully charge an Arlo battery?

Most Arlo batteries take 3 to 6 hours to charge fully. The Arlo Pro 4 with a removable battery takes about 4 hours in the dock. Built-in batteries (like in the Essential) may take up to 6 hours when charged directly.

Pro tip: Charging speed depends on the adapter. A 5V/3A adapter is faster than a 5V/1A one.

Q: Can I charge my Arlo battery with a power bank?

Yes, but only if the power bank supports USB-C Power Delivery (PD) and outputs at least 5V/2A. I’ve used my Anker PowerCore 10000 to charge a spare Arlo battery on the go—works great in a pinch.

Just don’t use a low-quality power bank. They can cause voltage spikes.

Q: Why does my Arlo battery drain so fast?

Several reasons:

• High motion detection (too many alerts)
• Low Wi-Fi signal (camera works harder to stay connected)
• Extreme temperatures (cold reduces battery efficiency)
• Old battery (lithium-ion degrades after 500+ charge cycles)

Check the app’s “Battery Usage” graph to see what’s eating power.

Q: Is it okay to leave my Arlo battery charging overnight?

Technically, yes—the Arlo dock has overcharge protection. But I don’t recommend it. Leaving lithium-ion batteries at 100% for hours stresses the cells.

Use a timer or smart plug to charge for 4–5 hours max. Your battery will last longer.

Q: Can I use a solar panel to charge my Arlo battery directly?

Only if the solar panel is designed for Arlo (like the official Arlo Solar Panel). It regulates voltage to prevent damage.

Never connect a DIY solar setup directly to the battery—it can fry the circuit.

Q: My Arlo shows “Charging Error.” What should I do?

First, check the contacts. Wipe them with a microfiber cloth. Then:

• Unplug and replug the cable.
• Try a different USB port or adapter.
• Restart the camera via the app.
• Update the firmware.

If it still fails, the battery might be faulty. Contact Arlo support for a replacement.

Q: How often should I charge my Arlo battery?

Depends on usage. In high-traffic areas, I charge every 3–4 weeks. In low-activity zones, every 6–8 weeks.

Use the app’s battery history to track your average. Then set a reminder to charge before it hits 30%.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to charge Arlo security camera batteries in 2026 isn’t just about plugging in a cable—it’s about doing it right to keep your cameras reliable, safe, and long-lasting.

From using the right charger to cleaning contacts, rotating batteries, and leveraging new features like Battery Health Mode, small habits make a big difference. I’ve gone from frustrated outages to a fully powered home security system—all because I took the time to learn the details.

So here’s my final advice: set a monthly charging reminder. Charge your batteries before they’re empty. Use the original dock. And don’t ignore firmware updates. It takes 10 minutes a month, but it could save you hours of stress.

And if you’re setting up solar charging? Go for it. It’s the future—and honestly, it’s kind of cool to know your camera is powered by the sun.

Stay safe, stay charged, and keep an eye on what matters most.