When you buy a Reolink battery, a rechargeable power source designed for wireless security cameras that eliminates the need for wiring. Also known as rechargeable camera battery, it lets you place cameras anywhere—on a porch, in a garden, or even up a tree—without running cables. But these batteries don’t last forever, and not all Reolink models use them the same way. The real question isn’t just how long the battery lasts, but what makes it drain faster—and how to make it last months longer.
Reolink batteries are used in popular models like the Reolink Argus 3 Pro, a weatherproof wireless camera with built-in motion detection and solar charging support, and the Reolink Go, a cellular-powered camera that works without Wi-Fi. These cameras rely on lithium-ion cells that last 1 to 6 months on a single charge, depending on usage. If your camera triggers 20+ motion alerts a day, or if it’s pointed at a busy street, the battery will die faster. Cold weather cuts battery life in half. Even standing in direct sun can overheat the battery and reduce its lifespan.
That’s why solar panels are a game-changer. Models like the Argus 3 Pro can pair with a solar panel to keep the battery topped up, turning it into a near-permanent solution. But solar isn’t magic—it needs clear sunlight for at least 4 hours a day. If your camera sits under a tree or faces north, it won’t charge well. You also need to check the battery’s health every few months. A battery that used to last 4 months might now last 2, and that’s a sign it’s worn out.
What you won’t find in the ads is how often people replace these batteries. Most users swap them out after 12 to 18 months. Reolink sells replacement packs, but third-party batteries can be cheaper and just as reliable—if you pick the right ones. Not all 18650 cells are equal. Stick to ones with the same voltage and capacity (usually 5000mAh or higher) to avoid damaging the camera.
And here’s something most don’t think about: battery-powered cameras often have worse night vision than wired ones. Why? Because infrared LEDs drain power fast. If you turn off night vision to save battery, you lose visibility after dark. That’s why some users switch to thermal or starlight cameras—models that see in low light without using infrared. But those aren’t available in Reolink’s battery lineup. So you’re stuck choosing between battery life and image quality.
Reolink’s software lets you tweak settings to stretch battery life: reduce motion sensitivity, shorten recording time, disable live streaming, and turn off audio. But if you do all that, you’re left with a camera that barely does anything. The truth is, battery-powered cameras are great for temporary use, renters, or spots where wiring is impossible. But if you want 24/7 coverage without fuss, wired or solar-assisted models are the real answer.
Below, you’ll find real tests and user experiences on how long these batteries actually last, which Reolink models drain power the fastest, and how to avoid the common mistakes that kill battery life in weeks instead of months. No fluff. Just what works.
Wireless security camera batteries last from a few weeks to over 10 months depending on usage, weather, and settings. Learn what really affects battery life and how to make yours last longer.
