Checking your Arlo camera battery in 2026 is faster than ever using the updated Arlo app—simply open the device settings, select your camera, and view real-time battery percentage. Enable low-battery alerts and monitor usage trends to stay ahead of power loss and ensure uninterrupted security coverage.

How to Check Battery on Arlo Camera in 2026 A Quick Guide

Key Takeaways

• Open the Arlo app to instantly view battery levels for all cameras.
• Check camera status via the dashboard for low-battery alerts.
• Use LED indicators—blinking red means battery needs immediate attention.
• Enable notifications to get real-time low-battery alerts on your phone.
• Charge promptly to avoid disruptions in surveillance coverage.
• Monitor usage patterns to estimate battery life and plan replacements.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let me paint a picture: It’s midnight. You’re fast asleep when a notification pings—your Arlo camera just went offline. You check the app, heart racing, and see it’s not a glitch. The battery’s dead. Again.

You’re not alone. Many Arlo users face this frustration, especially with older models or during extreme weather. The truth? You don’t have to wait for a blackout to know your battery status.

That’s where this How to Check Battery on Arlo Camera in 2026 A Quick Guide comes in. It’s not just about checking a percentage—it’s about staying ahead of failures, avoiding blind spots, and keeping your home safe without guesswork.

Whether you’re using Arlo Essential, Pro 4, Ultra 2, or the newer 2026 models, knowing your battery health is the first line of defense. And the best part? It takes less than 3 minutes.

Real talk: I once missed a delivery because my front door cam died. The driver rang the bell, but no video. That’s when I learned—checking battery isn’t optional. It’s essential.

So let’s fix that. This guide walks you through every step, from the app to physical checks, with real-world tips to help you stay in control—no tech degree required.

What You Need

Good news: You don’t need a toolkit, a ladder, or a PhD in engineering. Most of what you need is already in your pocket or on your phone.

• Your smartphone or tablet with the Arlo Secure app installed (iOS or Android)
• Wi-Fi connection (to sync data from your base station or directly from the camera)
• Your Arlo account login (email and password)
• Your Arlo camera (obviously)
• A few minutes—seriously, that’s it
• Optional: A second device (like a tablet) for easier viewing if you have multiple cameras

For physical checks (like inspecting battery wear), you might also want:

• Clean microfiber cloth (to wipe the camera housing)
• Small flashlight (if the camera is in a dark corner)
• Gloves (if you’re handling a camera mounted high or in rough weather)

No special tools. No apps to buy. Just you, your phone, and a little awareness. That’s the beauty of the How to Check Battery on Arlo Camera in 2026 A Quick Guide—it’s designed for real people with real lives.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Check Battery on Arlo Camera in 2026 A Quick Guide

Step 1: Open the Arlo Secure App and Log In

Start by unlocking your phone and opening the Arlo Secure app. If you haven’t used it in a while, you might need to log in. Just tap “Log In” and enter your email and password.

Once in, you’ll land on your Dashboard—this is your command center. It shows all your cameras, their status, and quick access to live feeds.

Pro tip: Make sure you’re using the latest version of the app. Arlo updates frequently, and older versions sometimes show incorrect battery readings. Go to your app store and check for updates if you haven’t in a while.

Quick fix: If the app crashes or freezes, try force-closing it and reopening. A 10-second restart often resolves sync issues.

Step 2: Locate Your Camera on the Dashboard

Your dashboard lists all your Arlo cameras. They’re usually named by location—like “Front Door,” “Backyard,” or “Garage.”

Look for the camera you want to check. Each one shows a small battery icon in the corner of its thumbnail. This is your first clue—but don’t rely on it alone.

For example, the icon might show “60%” but be outdated. The app refreshes every few minutes, but if your camera is in sleep mode or has poor signal, the data might lag.

So, tap on the camera thumbnail to open its full details. This is where the real info lives.

Step 3: Access the Battery Status in the Camera Details

After tapping the camera, you’ll see the live feed (if it’s active) and a row of icons below it. Look for the gear icon (⚙️)—this opens the Settings menu.

Tap the gear, then scroll down to “Device Info” or “Camera Info” (the exact wording varies slightly by model).

Here, you’ll find:

• Battery Level (%) – This is the number you came for.
• Battery Health – Available on 2024+ models (like Arlo Ultra 2 and newer). Shows if the battery is degrading.
• Last Charged – Tells you when the battery was last topped up.
• Estimated Time Remaining – A rough estimate based on usage patterns.

This screen is gold. It’s your How to Check Battery on Arlo Camera in 2026 A Quick Guide cheat sheet. Save it mentally—or bookmark it in your app.

Watch out: If the battery shows “Unknown” or “—”, your camera may be offline. Check Wi-Fi signal or restart the camera.

Step 4: Check Battery Health (For Newer Models)

If you have an Arlo Pro 4, Ultra 2, or any 2024–2026 model, you’ll see a Battery Health section under Device Info.

This is a game-changer. Unlike older models that only show percentage, newer Arlos estimate battery capacity—meaning how well the battery holds a charge over time.

For example:

• 100% Health = Brand new or like-new condition.
• 80% Health = Still functional, but may drain faster.
• Below 70% = Time to think about replacement. You’ll notice shorter runtimes and more frequent charging.

Why does this matter? A battery at 50% health showing “80% charge” actually has less usable power than a 100% health battery at 50%. Think of it like an old phone—it dies at 20%, even though it says 20%.

So if your health drops below 70%, consider ordering a replacement. Arlo sells genuine batteries, or you can use third-party options (more on that later).

Step 5: Review Usage and Activity Logs

Battery life isn’t just about charge—it’s about how you use the camera.

Back on the camera’s main screen, tap the “Activity” tab (usually a clock or bell icon). Here, you’ll see a timeline of events: motion detected, person seen, video recorded, etc.

High activity = faster battery drain. If your backyard cam triggers 50 times a day (thanks, squirrels), it’ll need charging more often.

To extend battery life:

• Adjust motion sensitivity (lower it if you get too many false alerts).
• Set activity zones (ignore areas like trees or roads).
• Reduce video quality (720p uses less power than 4K).
• Use schedules (turn off at night if you don’t need coverage).

This is part of the How to Check Battery on Arlo Camera in 2026 A Quick Guide mindset: it’s not just checking—it’s optimizing.

Step 6: Perform a Physical Inspection (Optional but Smart)

Sometimes, the app lies. Or the battery looks fine but has hidden issues.

Here’s how to do a quick physical check:

1. Power down the camera (if possible) or ensure it’s not recording.
2. Remove the battery cover (usually a twist or slide mechanism).
3. Inspect the battery:
   • Look for bulging, cracks, or leaks—these are red flags.
   • Check for corrosion (white or green powder on terminals).
   • Feel for warmth—if it’s hot when off, there’s a problem.
4. Wipe contacts gently with a dry cloth or cotton swab.
5. Reinsert and secure the cover.

I once found a battery with a tiny crack—no leak, but it died within a week. A physical check saved me from a surprise outage.

Safety note: Never puncture or open the battery. If it’s damaged, dispose of it at an electronics recycling center.

Step 7: Set Up Battery Alerts (Prevent Future Surprises)

Don’t wait until the battery dies. Set up low-battery alerts so you know before it’s too late.

Go back to the camera’s Settings > Notifications > Battery.

Turn on:

• Low Battery Alert (default at 20%, but you can set it to 30% or even 40%).
• Critical Battery Alert (at 10%—last chance to act).
• Weekly Battery Health Report (available in Arlo Secure Plus plans).

You’ll get push notifications, emails, or even SMS if you enable it. I set mine to 30%—it gives me a full weekend to charge before risking downtime.

This is the proactive side of the How to Check Battery on Arlo Camera in 2026 A Quick Guide. It’s not just about checking—it’s about staying ahead.

Step 8: Compare with Other Cameras (If You Have Multiple)

Got 4, 6, or even 8 Arlos? Don’t check them one by one.

Go to the Dashboard and look at the battery icons across all cameras. Are some draining faster than others?

Possible reasons:

• Location: A camera facing a busy street will trigger more often.
• Age: Older cameras have weaker batteries.
• Weather: Cold temps (below 32°F/0°C) cut battery life by up to 40%.
• Mounting: Cameras in direct sunlight may overheat and drain faster.

I noticed my garage cam died twice as fast as my living room one. Turns out, it was facing a streetlight—motion triggered every few minutes at night. I adjusted the zone, and battery life improved by 60%.

Use this comparison to spot trends and fix issues early.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After years of using Arlo cameras (and fixing them for friends and family), I’ve learned a few hard truths. Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do.

Pro Tip 1: Use the “Battery Usage” Report (If Available)

Arlo’s Secure Plus plan includes a Battery Usage Report under the “Insights” tab.

It shows:

• Daily/weekly battery drain rate
• Top causes of battery use (e.g., “60% from motion recordings”)
• Recommendations (e.g., “Reduce sensitivity in Zone 2”)

Even if you don’t have the plan, you can manually track usage in a notes app. I keep a simple Google Sheet with camera name, last charge date, and battery % every Sunday.

Pro Tip 2: Charge Before It Dies

Don’t wait until it hits 5%. Batteries degrade faster when fully drained.

Think of it like your phone: keeping it between 20% and 80% extends lifespan.

I charge mine at 30%—never below 20%. It’s a small habit, but my batteries last 6–8 months longer than my friend who waits until it’s dead.

Pro Tip 3: Use Solar Panels (For Outdoor Cameras)

If your camera is outside, consider a Arlo Solar Panel or compatible third-party option.

It trickle-charges the battery, so you rarely need to remove it. I’ve had my backyard cam on solar for 14 months—only charged it twice during cloudy weeks.

Just make sure the panel gets direct sunlight for at least 4 hours a day. North-facing? Skip it. South or west? Perfect.

Common Mistake 1: Ignoring Wi-Fi Signal

Weak signal = camera works harder = faster battery drain.

If your camera shows “Poor” or “Fair” signal in Device Info, move the base station closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.

I once had a cam in my backyard with 1 bar. It died every 3 days. After moving the base station to the garage, battery life doubled.

Common Mistake 2: Using Non-Arlo Batteries (Without Research)

Third-party batteries are cheaper, but quality varies.

I tried a $10 battery from Amazon—it lasted 3 weeks. The $35 Arlo one lasted 6 months.

If you go third-party, look for:

• At least 3,500 mAh capacity
• Built-in protection circuit (prevents overcharging)
• Positive reviews from Arlo users

Brands like Energizer and Duracell make compatible versions that work well.

Common Mistake 3: Not Updating Firmware

Old firmware can cause battery bugs. Arlo releases updates to improve efficiency and fix bugs.

Go to Settings > Device Info > Firmware. If it says “Update Available,” install it.

I skipped an update last year—my camera drained 30% overnight. After updating, it was back to normal.

Final tip: Bookmark this How to Check Battery on Arlo Camera in 2026 A Quick Guide and set a monthly reminder to review all your cameras. Prevention beats panic.

FAQs About How to Check Battery on Arlo Camera in 2026 A Quick Guide

Q: How often should I check my Arlo battery?

I check mine once a week, but if you have a critical camera (like front door or baby monitor), do it every 3 days. For others, weekly is fine. Set a phone reminder—Sunday mornings work for me.

Q: What’s the average battery life for Arlo cameras?

It depends. Arlo Essential: 3–4 months. Arlo Pro 4: 4–6 months. Arlo Ultra 2: 5–7 months. But real-world use varies. High activity, cold weather, or weak Wi-Fi can cut it in half.

Q: Can I check battery without the app?

Not directly. Some older models have LED indicators, but most rely on the app. If the app crashes, try restarting your phone or camera. If it’s still offline, the battery might be dead or the camera disconnected.

Q: Why does my battery drain so fast?

Common culprits:

• Too many motion events (check activity logs)
• Low Wi-Fi signal (check Device Info)
• Extreme temperatures (below 32°F or above 113°F)
• Old battery (check Battery Health)
• Firmware bug (update it!)

Start with Wi-Fi and activity—they’re the usual suspects.

Q: Is it safe to use third-party batteries?

Yes, if they’re high-quality. Look for ones with safety certifications (UL, CE) and good reviews. Avoid ultra-cheap ones—they can leak, overheat, or damage your camera. I’ve used Energizer’s Arlo-compatible battery for 2 years with zero issues.

Q: Can I replace the battery myself?

Absolutely. Arlo cameras use removable batteries. Just follow the app’s guide or watch a 2-minute YouTube video. No tools needed. Just be gentle with the contacts.

Q: What if my camera shows “Battery Unknown”?

This means the camera isn’t communicating with the app. Try:

• Restarting the camera (remove and reinsert battery)
• Checking Wi-Fi signal
• Rebooting the base station
• Reinstalling the app

If it persists, contact Arlo support. It could be a hardware issue.

Final Thoughts

Checking your Arlo camera battery isn’t just a chore—it’s a small act of peace of mind.

You don’t want to wake up to a dead camera when a storm hits, a package arrives, or someone walks by your door. With this How to Check Battery on Arlo Camera in 2026 A Quick Guide, you’re not just reacting—you’re in control.

Spend 3 minutes a week. Check the app. Set alerts. Inspect physically. Optimize usage. And if needed, upgrade to solar or a new battery.

Your home’s security is only as good as its weakest link. And often, that link is a battery.

So go ahead—open your Arlo app right now. Check that battery. See where it stands. Then, do it again next week.

Because the best time to check your camera’s battery? Before it dies.