How Long Do Blink Camera Batteries Last?

Being able to use security cameras reliably is a core feature of any system. Blink cameras use lithium batteries to efficiently power their indoor and outdoor cameras, except for the Blink mini (which uses a Micro USB power cable). But how long do those batteries last?

Blink cameras’ AA lithium batteries are expected to last up to 2 years with regular use. However, several environmental and usage factors can impact the device’s battery life, such as temperature, connectivity, battery type, and frequency of use.

Blink promotes a long battery life for its security cameras, aiming to provide users with extended, reliable use. This article will take an in-depth look into some of the factors that can affect your camera’s battery life and some battery saving tips.

How Long Should Blink Camera Batteries Last?

Lithium batteries (different than lithium-ion batteries) are designed to operate longer than alkaline and withstand extreme temperatures. They are also lighter than alkaline batteries and can retain their voltage for the duration of their lifespan.

According to Blink, their devices should run on two AA lithium batteries for around two years with normal use. They estimate that standard use equates to about 54,000 seconds or 15 hours of video events (including live view and motion-activated recording).

What Can Affect Blink Camera Battery Life?

Though lithium batteries are reliable and energy-efficient, several factors may reduce their lifespan. Even if your security system is fully optimized, high use (like in heavy traffic areas) can drain the battery more quickly. Here are some other factors that may lead to reduced battery life:

• Slow or Intermittent Internet Connection: A poor internet connection can cause your Blink system to frequently activate its Wi-Fi features, which can rapidly drain the battery.
• Extreme Temperatures: Though lithium batteries can operate safely in extreme temperatures, exposure to the elements for extended periods may lead to shorter overall battery life.
• Using Alkaline or Rechargeable Batteries: Alkaline and rechargeable batteries do not have the same energy efficiency as lithium batteries. They are typically designed for “low-drain” devices and would be significantly affected by the Blink cameras’ high power usage.
• High Usage: Though the lithium batteries are expected to last up to two years with regular use, there may be scenarios that cause your camera to deplete its batteries more quickly.

Reducing Usage

The associated Blink app will notify you when a device is performing a high usage action so that you can adjust and configure your system accordingly. If you receive this alert, here are a few things you can try:

• Your camera may be using more battery due to continual false alarms. Try to reposition the camera if you’re receiving false motion alert notifications.
• Shorten the duration of your camera’s recorded motion clips. (Blink offers a helpful guide here on adjusting the length of the motion clips).
• The Live View feature drains the Blink camera’s battery more quickly than other functions. Try to reduce your usage of this feature to improve battery life.
• Make sure your camera has at least 3 bars of signal strength for the Camera to Wi-Fi. Searching for Wi-Fi will drain your camera’s battery and should be avoided if possible.
• Create schedules for when your system is armed. This will help ensure that your camera is only active and armed when you need it to be, thus extending your device’s battery life.

Note: You can check your device’s battery status in the camera’s settings (via the Blink Home Monitor app).

If you receive an alert that your Blink camera is experiencing “high usage,” it may be worthwhile to try some of these steps; this will help ensure that your camera’s batteries will reach the expected two-year battery life.

Tips for Saving Battery in Your Blink Camera

Suppose you’re using the recommended lithium batteries but are noticing a decline in life span or performance. If this is the case, there are some steps you can take to ensure your battery is running efficiently:

• Lower the Sensitivity Setting on Your Devices: Lowering your camera’s sensitivity settings will reduce false alarms and motion detection (both battery-intensive functions), thus improving your battery life.
• Reduce IR Intensity in Camera Settings: Blink cameras use IR LEDs to illuminate dark areas, allowing your camera to operate in low light. In the camera’s settings, you can adjust the IR illuminator intensity to Low, Medium, or High. Running on “Low” will help extend your battery’s lifespan.
• Configure Activity Zones: If you use your camera in areas with a lot of movement, like busy roads, you may notice your battery draining more quickly. You can create “activity zones,” which will designate the areas your camera monitors; this will effectively reduce false alarms while also improving your battery life.

Battery Level Indicator

The Blink Home Monitor can display your devices’ current battery status as well. If you notice your device is not performing as expected, it may be worth it to verify your battery’s health. However, a downside to this is that the app does not display the battery percentage, making it impossible to determine the rate at which your battery is deteriorating (or if it’s at 60% vs. 90%).

In Summary

Blink cameras offer competitive battery life at around two years with regular use. This provides reliability and peace of mind for homeowners looking to keep their property secure. Additionally, if you follow some of the tips in this article, you can help ensure your camera’s battery will last as long as possible.

Is it time to change your Blink camera’s battery? Check out this guide!