How you handle a Reolink camera battery depends on the model. The original 2017 Argus uses four replaceable CR123A batteries, while the Argus 2 and Argus Pro use a removable rechargeable battery pack. Newer models such as the Argus 4 Pro have a built-in battery that charges through the camera’s USB port or a compatible solar panel. This guide explains all three systems so you can identify the correct procedure before opening or removing anything.
Which Type of Battery Does Your Reolink Camera Use?
Reolink has used several battery designs across the Argus family. The table below covers common models, but hardware revisions can change charging ports and accessories. Check the exact model and hardware version in the Reolink app or on the camera label before ordering a cable, battery or solar panel.
| Common Camera Models | Battery Type | User Replaceable? |
|---|---|---|
| Original Argus (2017) | Four CR123A cells | Yes |
| Argus 2 and Argus Pro | Removable rechargeable pack | Yes |
| Argus 3 and Argus 3 Pro | Built-in rechargeable battery | No |
| Argus PT, Argus Eco and Argus 2E | Built-in rechargeable battery | No |
| Argus 4 and Argus 4 Pro | Built-in 5,000mAh rechargeable battery | No |
Important: A charging port does not prove that the battery is permanently built in. The removable Argus 2 and Argus Pro battery packs have their own charging ports. Identify the camera by model name rather than by the port alone.
How to Charge a Reolink Camera With a Built-In Battery
A camera with a non-removable battery must be charged as a complete unit. You can bring the camera to a power source or connect a compatible Reolink solar panel at the installed location.
Charging the Argus 4 or Argus 4 Pro
Remove the camera from its security bracket, open the rubber weather cover and connect the supplied USB-A-to-USB-C cable. Reolink specifies a 5V/2A USB charger for the Argus 4 Pro. Do not assume that every USB-C-to-USB-C charger or Power Delivery adapter will work. Refit the rubber cover completely before returning the camera outdoors.
Charging Older Built-In-Battery Models
Many Argus 3 Pro, Argus PT and earlier built-in-battery models use micro-USB and a 5V/2A power source. Later hardware revisions may use USB-C. Inspect the covered charging port and check the manual for your hardware version rather than buying a cable based only on the camera name.
Using a Reolink Solar Panel
The Argus 4 Pro supports the 6W Reolink Solar Panel 2. Depending on the package selected, the panel may be bundled with the camera or sold separately. Other Argus cameras require a panel with the correct connector, so confirm compatibility before ordering.
Mount the panel where it receives several hours of unobstructed sunlight and angle it toward the strongest available sun exposure. Trees, roof overhangs, seasonal shadows, cold weather and frequent live viewing can all reduce charging performance. Reolink says ten minutes of wired charging can provide about one day of Argus 4 Pro operation under its test conditions. That should not be interpreted as a guarantee that ten minutes of sunlight will provide the same result.
How to Remove the Battery From an Argus 2 or Argus Pro
The Argus 2 and Argus Pro use a rechargeable pack that detaches from the camera. Press the battery-release button, slide the battery in the direction shown in the camera manual and lift it away from the body. The removed pack can be charged through its own micro-USB port, allowing the camera and battery to be handled separately.
These cameras and their battery packs are older products, so replacement-pack availability can be limited. Do not buy a generic pack solely because it looks similar. Verify that the listing explicitly names your exact Reolink model and compare the electrical specifications with the original battery label.
How to Replace the Batteries in the Original Reolink Argus
The original 2017 Reolink Argus uses four CR123A cells. To reach the battery compartment, press the small release button on the bottom of the camera with a small, non-magnetic tool. Keep the button depressed while separating the camera at the seam around the middle.
Remove all four old cells and install four matching replacements while observing the polarity markings inside the compartment. Rejoin the camera halves and confirm that the release button locks securely. The seam must close evenly to maintain the camera’s outdoor protection.
The original Argus manual lists 3V non-rechargeable CR123A cells and 3.6V to 4.2V rechargeable CR123A cells as supported types. Four matching Tenergy CR123 lithium batteries are a reliable disposable option. Do not mix brands, charge levels, capacities or battery chemistries in the same camera. Rechargeable cells require a charger made for their chemistry and voltage.
How to Extend Reolink Camera Battery Life
Battery life depends more on camera activity than calendar time. Frequent motion events, long recordings, weak Wi-Fi, cold temperatures and repeated live viewing can drain a camera much faster than the manufacturer’s laboratory estimate.
Reduce unnecessary motion triggers: Lower PIR sensitivity enough to avoid distant traffic, moving branches and other irrelevant activity without creating a blind spot.
Refine detection zones and object settings: Excluding busy areas can reduce recordings, alerts and uploads after the camera wakes. Our tested Reolink detection alarm settings guide explains the controls that help stop false alerts.
Shorten recording duration: Long clips keep the camera awake and consume more power. Use the shortest duration that still captures the complete event.
Improve Wi-Fi signal: A weak or unstable connection can increase connection attempts and delay uploads. Reposition the router, mesh node or camera if the signal is marginal.
Limit live viewing: Live streaming keeps the camera fully active and is one of the fastest ways to drain its battery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Battery in the Reolink Argus 4 Pro Be Replaced?
No. The Argus 4 Pro has a built-in 5,000mAh battery that is not designed for user replacement. If the battery fails, contact Reolink support rather than opening the weather-sealed camera.
How Long Does an Argus 4 Pro Battery Last?
Reolink estimates approximately two months per charge when the camera records about 300 seconds per day. Real battery life varies with motion frequency, recording length, live viewing, Wi-Fi quality, settings and temperature. A compatible solar panel can reduce or eliminate manual charging when it receives adequate sunlight.
Does the Argus 4 Pro Include a Solar Panel?
It depends on the package. Reolink sells camera-only and camera-plus-panel configurations, and retailer bundles can differ. Check the package contents before buying rather than assuming that every Argus 4 Pro includes a panel.
What Batteries Does the Original Reolink Argus Use?
The original 2017 Reolink Argus uses four CR123A cells. Its manual supports 3V non-rechargeable CR123A batteries or 3.6V to 4.2V rechargeable CR123A batteries. Use four matching cells and never combine rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries.
How Do I Know When a Reolink Camera Needs Charging?
The Reolink app shows the current battery level and sends a low-battery notification on supported models. Reolink says the Argus 4 Pro sends that notification when the charge reaches 10 percent. Check the level periodically if the camera has no solar panel or is installed in a high-traffic location.
For more help choosing and powering a camera, see our Reolink camera reviews and guides, our hands-on Reolink Argus 4 Pro review, and our guide to alternative power sources for security cameras.
Bottom Line
Identify the exact Reolink model before buying batteries or charging accessories. The original Argus accepts four replaceable CR123A cells, the Argus 2 and Argus Pro use a removable rechargeable pack, and newer Argus models generally charge through the camera itself. For a built-in-battery camera, a compatible solar panel is the lowest-maintenance option when the mounting location receives enough direct sunlight.
