Arlo cameras charge through a USB cable connected to a power adapter

Most Arlo camera models use a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that you remove from the camera body to charge. You'll use the USB charging cable that came with your camera and plug it into any standard USB power adapter — the kind you might use for a phone or tablet. The charging port is usually located on the bottom or back of the battery itself, not on the camera.

Some newer Arlo models, like the Arlo Essential Indoor, have built-in batteries that charge while the camera stays mounted. These connect to power via a USB cable attached directly to the camera. Check your camera's manual or the label on the back to see which type you have.

Key Takeaways

  • Remove the battery from your Arlo camera and connect it to the included USB charging cable and power adapter to charge it outside the camera.
  • A full charge typically takes three to four hours, and you'll see a light indicator on the battery or camera showing when charging is complete.
  • Keep your camera plugged into power for at least 30 minutes before first use, even if the battery appears fully charged when you remove it from packaging.
  • Batteries drain faster in cold weather and when the camera records frequently, so plan to charge every two to four weeks depending on your usage.

Locating the charging port on your battery

The charging port on an Arlo battery is small and recessed, usually marked with a USB symbol or a lightning bolt icon. On most models, it sits on the flat side of the battery. Flip the battery over in your hands and look for a small rectangular opening — it's straightforward to miss if you're not looking directly at it.

If you can't find the port, check the quick-start guide that came in your box or visit the Arlo support website and search for your specific camera model number. The model number is printed on a label on the back of the camera or on the battery itself.

Using the right power adapter and cable

The USB cable included with your Arlo camera is designed specifically for that battery, so use it rather than substituting a different cable if possible. The power adapter itself can be any standard USB adapter rated for at least 1 amp of current — most phone chargers meet this requirement. A 2-amp adapter will charge the battery slightly faster without damaging it.

Do not use a power adapter rated for less than 1 amp, as it may charge very slowly or not charge the battery fully. If you've lost the original cable, Arlo sells replacement charging cables on their website, or you can use a standard USB-to-micro-USB cable if your camera uses that connector type.

How long a full charge takes

A completely dead Arlo battery takes three to four hours to reach full charge using a standard 1-amp adapter. If you use a 2-amp adapter, you may see the battery fully charged in two to three hours. The exact time depends on how depleted the battery was when you started and the specific power adapter you're using.

Most Arlo batteries show a light indicator while charging — usually a solid light that turns off or changes color when the battery is full. If your battery has no light indicator, unplug it after four hours and reinstall it in the camera to check the charge level through the Arlo app.

Charging your camera for the first time

New Arlo cameras ship with a partially charged battery to allow for testing before installation. Before you mount the camera permanently, charge the battery fully for at least 30 minutes using the included cable and adapter. This ensures the battery reaches its maximum capacity and helps the camera's software calibrate the battery correctly.

After the first charge, you can use the camera right away. The battery will continue to reach its full potential over the first few charge cycles, so don't be surprised if the battery life improves slightly over the first month of use.

Why your battery drains faster than expected

Arlo cameras drain battery faster when they record frequently, detect motion constantly, or operate in cold temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If your camera is set to record every motion event and you have a busy area in front of it, the battery may last only one to two weeks instead of the typical three to four weeks. Cold weather can reduce battery life by 20 to 30 percent.

You can extend battery life by adjusting your camera's motion detection sensitivity in the Arlo app, reducing the video quality setting, or moving the camera to a location with fewer motion triggers. Bringing an outdoor camera indoors during winter months also helps preserve the battery.

Storing your camera and battery safely

If you're not using your Arlo camera for more than a few weeks, remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place at room temperature. A battery left in a camera that's powered off will still drain slowly over time. Store the battery with a partial charge — around 50 percent — rather than completely full or completely empty, as this extends the battery's lifespan.

Before you reinstall a stored battery, charge it for 30 minutes even if it still has some charge remaining. This wakes up the battery and ensures it performs normally when you put the camera back into service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge my Arlo battery while it's still in the camera?

Most Arlo models require you to remove the battery before charging. However, some newer models like the Arlo Essential Indoor have non-removable batteries and charge while mounted on the wall. Check your camera's manual to see which type you have. If your camera has a removable battery, taking it out to charge is the standard method.

What does it mean if the charging light blinks or stays red?

A blinking or red light usually means the battery is still charging or has detected a problem. Let it charge for the full three to four hours before checking again. If the light stays red after four hours, try using a different USB power adapter or cable — the original cable may be damaged. If the problem continues, the battery itself may need replacement.

Is it safe to leave my Arlo battery charging overnight?

Yes, it's safe to leave an Arlo battery charging overnight. The battery has built-in protection that stops charging once it reaches full capacity, so it won't overcharge. However, unplugging it after it's fully charged will extend the battery's overall lifespan over time.

How often should I charge my Arlo camera battery?

Most Arlo batteries last three to four weeks on a single charge with normal use. Charge your battery when the Arlo app shows it below 20 percent, or every two to four weeks as a routine schedule. If your camera records very frequently or operates in cold weather, you may need to charge every one to two weeks.

Can I use a fast charger or power bank with my Arlo battery?

A standard fast charger rated for 2 amps is safe to use with your Arlo battery and will charge it slightly faster. However, avoid chargers rated above 2 amps or designed for tablets, as they may damage the battery. Power banks work fine as long as they're rated for at least 1 amp of output.