Blink cameras use AA batteries, two per camera

Most Blink indoor and outdoor cameras run on two AA batteries. This is true for the Blink Mini, Blink Outdoor, Blink Indoor, and Blink Video Doorbell models. The batteries sit in a compartment on the back or bottom of the camera, depending on the model, and slide in with the positive and negative ends facing the correct direction marked inside the compartment.

The Blink Mini Wired model is the exception — it plugs into power and does not use batteries at all. If you own that model, you do not need to stock AA batteries.

Key Takeaways

  • Blink cameras use two AA batteries each, which you can buy at any grocery store, pharmacy, or hardware store.
  • Alkaline AA batteries typically last 12 to 24 months in a Blink camera, depending on how often the camera records.
  • The battery compartment is usually on the back of the camera and opens by sliding a small latch or unscrewing a cover.
  • Your Blink app will send you a notification when the battery level drops to 20 percent, giving you time to replace them before they die.
  • Rechargeable AA batteries work in Blink cameras but may not last as long as alkaline batteries between charges.

How to locate and open the battery compartment

The battery compartment location varies slightly by model. On the Blink Indoor and Blink Outdoor cameras, the compartment is on the back of the unit. On the Blink Video Doorbell, it is on the bottom. Look for a small rectangular panel or a slot with a latch.

To open it, slide the latch to the side or unscrew the small cover — most models use a latch rather than screws. The compartment will pop open or slide out slightly. Inside, you will see two slots marked with a plus sign (positive) and minus sign (negative) to show which way the batteries go.

Inserting batteries the correct way

AA batteries have a flat negative end and a raised positive end. The flat end goes toward the minus sign, and the raised end goes toward the plus sign. Both batteries must face the same direction — positive ends pointing the same way.

Slide each battery into its slot until it clicks or sits flush. Close the compartment by sliding the latch back or screwing the cover tight. The camera will power on within a few seconds. If the camera does not turn on, remove the batteries, wait 10 seconds, and reinsert them to reset the connection.

Battery life and when to replace them

Alkaline AA batteries (the standard kind sold in multipacks) typically last 12 to 24 months in a Blink camera. The exact length depends on how often the camera detects motion and records video. A camera in a low-traffic area may run for two years on one set of batteries. A camera pointed at a busy doorway might need new batteries in a year.

Your Blink app will notify you when the battery level reaches 20 percent. This gives you a window of time to buy and install new batteries before the camera stops working. You do not have to wait for the notification — you can check the battery status in the app anytime by opening the camera settings and looking at the battery percentage.

Alkaline versus rechargeable batteries

Alkaline AA batteries are the most common choice and work reliably in Blink cameras. They are inexpensive, widely available, and deliver steady power throughout their lifespan. Rechargeable AA batteries (NiMH type) also work in Blink cameras but have some tradeoffs.

Rechargeable batteries cost more upfront but save money over time if you replace batteries frequently. However, they typically hold a charge for a shorter period than alkaline batteries — often 6 to 12 months instead of 12 to 24 months. This is because rechargeable batteries have a lower voltage output and drain faster during standby. If you choose rechargeable batteries, buy a quality charger and keep spare batteries on hand so you always have a charged pair ready to swap in.

Troubleshooting battery problems

If your Blink camera stops working or shows a low battery warning even after you just installed new batteries, the batteries may be inserted backward or not fully seated. Remove them, wait 10 seconds, and reinsert them, making sure the positive end of each battery aligns with the plus sign in the compartment.

If the camera still does not power on, try a different brand or type of battery. Occasionally a battery is defective or has lost charge during storage. If the problem persists after trying multiple new batteries, the camera itself may have a hardware issue and may need to be replaced.

Where to buy AA batteries

AA batteries are sold everywhere — grocery stores, pharmacies, hardware stores, big-box retailers, and online. You do not need a special type. Standard alkaline AA batteries from any brand (Duracell, Energizer, Amazon Basics, store brands) work equally well in Blink cameras. Buy multipacks to keep spares on hand so you are never caught without power.

If you use rechargeable batteries, make sure you also have a charger. Some rechargeable battery packs come with a charger included; others do not. Check the product description before you buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use 9-volt batteries or other sizes in my Blink camera?

No. Blink cameras are designed for AA batteries only. Using a different size or type of battery will not fit in the compartment and may damage the camera. Stick to AA alkaline or rechargeable batteries.

How often do I need to replace the batteries?

Most users replace batteries once every 12 to 24 months, depending on how much motion the camera detects. The app will notify you when the battery reaches 20 percent, so you will know when replacement is coming. Cameras in low-traffic areas may go two years; busy areas may need new batteries in a year.

Do rechargeable batteries work as well as alkaline ones?

Rechargeable batteries work in Blink cameras but typically last 6 to 12 months between charges, compared to 12 to 24 months for alkaline batteries. They cost more upfront but save money long-term if you replace batteries often. The tradeoff is that you need a charger and must remember to charge them.

What happens if I put the batteries in backward?

The camera will not power on. The battery compartment is marked with plus and minus signs to show the correct direction. If your camera does not turn on after battery replacement, remove the batteries, wait 10 seconds, and reinsert them with the positive (raised) end toward the plus sign.

Can I use the camera while the batteries are charging if I use rechargeable batteries?

No. You must remove the batteries from the camera to charge them in a separate charger. The camera cannot operate without batteries installed. This is why many users keep a second set of charged batteries on hand so they can swap them in while the first set charges.