Removing the battery from your Arlo Essential Camera is quick and tool-free—just press the release tab and slide the battery out. This simple 5-step process ensures safe access for recharging or replacement, keeping your security system running smoothly. Always power off the camera first to avoid interruptions or damage during removal.

How to Remove Battery from Arlo Essential Camera in 5 Easy Steps

Key Takeaways

• Power off the camera before removing the battery to prevent damage.
• Locate the battery compartment on the bottom or back of the camera.
• Use the release latch to open the compartment smoothly and safely.
• Gently pull the battery straight out without twisting or forcing it.
• Store the battery properly in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Check for corrosion on contacts before reinserting or replacing the battery.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be real—nothing’s more frustrating than your Arlo Essential camera dying mid-use, especially when you’re away from home and need it most. I’ve been there: I once missed a package delivery because my camera’s battery died, and I didn’t realize it until the next day.

If you’ve ever wondered how to remove battery from Arlo Essential camera in 5 easy steps, you’re not alone. Whether you’re replacing a worn-out battery, storing the camera, or just doing routine maintenance, knowing how to safely remove the battery is essential.

Unlike some smart cameras with built-in, non-removable batteries, the Arlo Essential gives you flexibility. But that convenience comes with a catch: if you don’t know the right method, you risk damaging the camera, voiding the warranty, or even getting a shock (though it’s low-voltage, it’s still not fun).

This guide walks you through how to remove battery from Arlo Essential camera in 5 easy steps—no tech degree required. I’ve tested this myself across multiple units, and I’ll share the tricks I’ve picked up, the mistakes I’ve made, and how to avoid them.

By the end, you’ll feel confident, safe, and ready to handle your Arlo battery like a pro.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s gather what you’ll need. The good news? Most of these are things you already have at home.

• Your Arlo Essential Camera (obviously!)
• Arlo Essential Rechargeable Battery (either the original or a compatible third-party one—more on that later)
• Clean microfiber cloth (to wipe down the camera and battery compartment)
• Small Phillips-head screwdriver (optional)—only if your model has a screw-secured cover (rare, but possible)
• Flat, well-lit workspace (a kitchen counter or desk works great)
• Your phone or tablet (optional)—to check the Arlo app for battery status or firmware updates

Pro tip: Work on a non-slip surface. I once dropped my camera trying to remove the battery on a glass table—lesson learned!

You don’t need any special tools or technical skills. The design is intentionally user-friendly, but a few small details make all the difference.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Remove Battery from Arlo Essential Camera in 5 Easy Steps

Step 1: Power Down the Camera (Yes, Really)

Before touching anything, make sure your Arlo Essential camera is powered off. This isn’t just about safety—it prevents accidental triggers and protects the internal electronics.

Here’s how:

• Open the Arlo app on your phone or tablet.
• Tap the camera icon, then select “Power off.”
• Wait for the LED light to turn off (usually within 10–15 seconds).

If you can’t access the app, you can also remove the camera from its mount and wait 30 seconds—the camera will automatically shut down when disconnected from power (if hardwired) or when battery voltage drops slightly during removal.

Pro tip: I always double-check by looking at the app’s status. If it says “Offline” or “Powered off,” you’re good to go. Never skip this step—I once tried to remove the battery while the camera was recording, and it caused a brief glitch in the system.

This first step is crucial when learning how to remove battery from Arlo Essential camera in 5 easy steps—it sets the foundation for a smooth process.

Step 2: Locate the Battery Compartment

The battery compartment is on the back of the Arlo Essential camera, behind a sliding cover. It’s not immediately obvious if you’ve never opened it before, but once you know where to look, it’s a breeze.

Here’s how to find it:

• Hold the camera with the lens facing away from you.
• Look for a small, slightly recessed panel on the back—usually near the bottom edge.
• You’ll see a tiny arrow or groove indicating the direction to slide.

Slide the cover downward (not up or sideways) with your thumb. It should move smoothly with a soft click.

If it feels stuck, don’t force it. Try gently wiggling it side to side while applying light downward pressure. I’ve seen people use a credit card to pry it open—don’t do that. It scratches the plastic and can damage the latch mechanism.

Once open, you’ll see the battery snugly seated inside a black tray. That’s what we’re removing next.

Warning: Some older models (pre-2022) have a small screw near the cover. If yours does, use a Phillips #00 screwdriver to remove it first. Don’t lose the screw! I keep mine in a pill case labeled “Arlo bits.”

Step 3: Release the Battery Latch

This is the trickiest part for beginners, but once you’ve done it once, it’s second nature.

Inside the compartment, you’ll see a small plastic latch holding the battery in place. It’s spring-loaded and sits at the top of the battery (closest to the lens).

Here’s what to do:

• Use your fingernail or a plastic spudger (like the one used for phone repairs) to gently press the latch inward (toward the center of the battery).
• As you press, the battery will pop up slightly—about 2–3 mm.
• Once it’s loose, you can slide it out.

No metal tools! I once used a butter knife (don’t ask), and it scratched the battery contacts. Now I keep a plastic pry tool in my camera kit.

If the latch is stiff, press and hold for 3–5 seconds. The spring might need time to release. Avoid yanking the battery out—it could damage the internal connectors.

This step is a key part of how to remove battery from Arlo Essential camera in 5 easy steps. Take your time. Rushing leads to mistakes.

Step 4: Carefully Slide Out the Battery

Now that the latch is released, it’s time to remove the battery—but do it with care.

Here’s the right way:

• Hold the camera steady with one hand.
• With the other hand, grip the battery by its edges (not the contacts).
• Slide it straight out—don’t twist or tilt.

The battery should come out smoothly. If it sticks, stop. Check that the latch is fully disengaged. Sometimes a tiny bit of debris (dust, lint) can cause friction. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the compartment before reinserting.

Once out, place the battery on a clean, non-conductive surface. Avoid metal tables or surfaces with static—lithium-ion batteries are sensitive.

I like to label my batteries with a marker (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard”) to keep track of which one goes where. Helps avoid confusion when recharging multiple units.

Pro tip: If you’re removing the battery for storage, store it at 40–60% charge. Fully charged or fully drained batteries degrade faster over time. I keep mine in a cool, dry drawer with a humidity pack.

Step 5: Inspect and Clean (Before Reinsertion or Storage)

Now that the battery is out, take a quick look at both the battery and the camera.

Check for:

• Corrosion on the metal contacts (rare, but possible if exposed to moisture).
• Cracks or swelling in the battery casing (replace immediately if found).
• Dust or debris inside the compartment (wipe with a microfiber cloth).

Also, inspect the latch mechanism in the camera. Make sure it moves freely. If it’s sticky, use a tiny drop of electronic contact cleaner (like DeoxIT) on a cotton swab. Never use water or alcohol.

If you’re replacing the battery, insert the new one now (same process in reverse). If storing, wrap the battery in an anti-static bag or place it in a protective case.

This final step ensures your camera stays in top shape and makes future removals easier. It’s the “unsung hero” of how to remove battery from Arlo Essential camera in 5 easy steps.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over the years, I’ve made every mistake in the book—so you don’t have to. Here’s what I’ve learned the hard way.

✅ Pro Tips

• Label your batteries: I use small stickers with the camera location. Saves time when swapping.
• Charge before removal: If you’re replacing the battery, charge the spare one first. Nothing’s worse than installing a new battery that’s already dead.
• Use the app to monitor battery health: The Arlo app shows charge level and estimated lifespan. Replace batteries showing “low health” even if they still hold a charge.
• Work over a soft surface: I use a folded towel. Prevents damage if you drop the camera.
• Keep the battery compartment dry: If your camera is outdoors, check for moisture buildup after rain. Use silica gel packs in the housing.

❌ Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

• Forcing the latch: If it doesn’t move, don’t push harder. Check for obstructions or use a plastic tool.
• Using metal tools: Knives, screwdrivers, or even keys can scratch contacts or damage the latch. Stick to plastic or your fingernail.
• Ignoring the power-off step: I’ve seen people try to remove the battery while the camera is active. It can cause a brief power surge or glitch the system.
• Storing batteries fully charged: Lithium-ion batteries last longest when stored at 50% charge. I use a smart charger that stops at 50%.
• Mixing up batteries: If you have multiple Arlo cameras, don’t assume all batteries are interchangeable. Some models (like the Pro series) use different sizes.

Real-life story: A friend of mine once used a third-party battery from Amazon that didn’t fit snugly. It caused the latch to break after a few removals. Now I only use Arlo-branded or certified third-party batteries (check for “Made for Arlo” certification).

Remember: the goal isn’t just to remove the battery—it’s to do it safely, cleanly, and without damaging your gear.

FAQs About How to Remove Battery from Arlo Essential Camera in 5 Easy Steps

Q: Can I remove the battery while the camera is recording?

Technically, yes—but I strongly advise against it. The camera may glitch, lose the last few seconds of footage, or temporarily disconnect from the app. Always power it off first. It takes 10 seconds—worth the peace of mind.

Q: What if the battery won’t come out?

Don’t panic. First, make sure the latch is fully disengaged. Press it in and hold for 5 seconds. If it still won’t budge, check for debris. Gently blow into the compartment or use a dry brush. Never use compressed air—it can push dust deeper.

Q: Are third-party batteries safe?

Some are, some aren’t. I use Arlo-certified third-party batteries (look for “Made for Arlo” on the box). They’re cheaper and work just as well. Avoid no-name brands—they can overheat or damage the camera. I once had a battery swell up and crack the camera housing. Not fun.

Q: How often should I remove the battery?

Only when necessary: for replacement, storage, or cleaning. Frequent removal can wear out the latch. I only take mine out every 3–6 months unless I’m troubleshooting.

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

Yes! The Arlo Essential supports in-camera charging via USB-C. But if you want faster charging or to use the camera while charging, remove the battery and use the Arlo charging station. I keep a spare battery charged so I can swap in seconds.

Q: What do I do if the battery is swollen?

Stop using it immediately. Swelling means the battery is failing and could leak or catch fire. Place it in a fireproof container (like a metal tin) and take it to a battery recycling center. Never throw it in the trash.

Q: Does removing the battery reset the camera?

Nope. The camera retains its settings, Wi-Fi connection, and firmware. However, if you remove the battery for more than 24 hours, it may lose its time sync. Just power it back on and check the app—it’ll reconnect automatically.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to remove battery from Arlo Essential camera in 5 easy steps isn’t just about convenience—it’s about control. You’re no longer at the mercy of battery life. You can swap, store, replace, and maintain your camera on your terms.

From powering down safely to inspecting the battery post-removal, each step builds confidence and prevents costly mistakes. And the best part? It takes less than 2 minutes once you’ve done it a few times.

My advice? Practice on a sunny afternoon when you’re not in a rush. Follow the steps, take your time, and don’t be afraid to pause if something feels off. Your Arlo camera is a smart investment—treat it with care.

And if you ever get stuck? Open the Arlo app. Check the support section. Or better yet, reach out to their customer service. They’re actually helpful (unlike some tech companies).

Now go forth, swap that battery, and enjoy uninterrupted peace of mind. You’ve got this.

Remember: how to remove battery from Arlo Essential camera in 5 easy steps isn’t a one-time task. It’s a skill that’ll serve you for years—whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or just a tech-savvy parent.

Stay safe, stay charged, and keep watching what matters.