Explore different options for the power supply for Reolink Doorbell Battery cameras. This article outlines the power supply and charging methods for Reolink battery-powered doorbells.
Applies to: Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery), D340B and Reolink Battery Video Doorbell (2nd Gen).
Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery, 1st Gen)
Charging When the Doorbell Is Installed on the Wall
When the doorbell is installed on a wall, there are three convenient ways to power the device: battery-only, via mechanical/digital chime, and using a power adapter.
Regardless of the chosen method, the battery must be charged before being used to power the doorbell.
- Battery-Only: In this method, the doorbell operates solely on battery power, eliminating the need for an external power source, and offering convenience.
- Existing Doorbell Wiring: When connected to your existing doorbell wiring, the doorbell receives low-voltage AC power (8-24V, 50/60Hz, 5-40VA) from the transformer, which trickle-charges the battery.
- DC 24V Power Adapter: Using a DC 24V power adapter also trickle-charges the device's battery.
Note: Trickle charging helps compensate for battery capacity loss due to self-discharge.
During the later stages of charging, particularly when the battery is nearing full capacity, charging it with a lower current helps maintain the battery's charge status and reduces the impact of self-discharge. Although the battery indicator may show 100% charge, it may not be in a fully saturated state. This trickle-charging phase typically requires an additional 30-40 minutes to ensure the battery reaches optimal charging status.
Charging When the Doorbell Is Not Installed
If the doorbell is not yet installed, you can charge the battery using a DC 5V/2A adapter (Type-C). Most smartphone Type-C adapters meet this specification and can be used to charge the doorbell battery.
Reolink Battery Video Doorbell (2nd Gen)
The 2nd Gen battery doorbell introduces dual-power support, offering two power modes: Battery Power Mode and Wired Power Mode. Understanding the difference helps you choose the best setup for your home.
Battery Power Mode
In this mode, the doorbell runs on its built-in battery and relies on the PIR motion sensor to trigger recording and alerts. There are two ways to use this mode:
- Battery-Only: The doorbell operates solely on battery power with no wiring required. Installation is flexible and convenient.
- Battery + Trickle Charge: Connect the doorbell to existing doorbell wiring (8-24V AC/DC). The doorbell remains in Battery Power Mode while the wiring trickle-charges the battery to compensate for self-discharge. In this setup, your existing mechanical chime will ring normally.
Wired Power Mode
When connected to existing doorbell wiring (16-24V AC/DC), you can switch the doorbell to Wired Power Mode via the Reolink App (Camera Settings > Power > Working Mode). In this mode, the doorbell behaves like a plug-in security camera and supports 24/7 continuous recording and pre-motion recording.
Note: 24/7 continuous recording is only available when the doorbell is used standalone. When connected to a Reolink NVR or Home Hub, continuous recording is not supported — the camera only records motion events.
Wired Power Mode requires 16-24V AC/DC wiring and one of the following accessories for mechanical chime compatibility:
- Jumper Cable (included): The mechanical chime is bypassed and will not ring.
- Reolink Power Kit RLA-PK1 (sold separately): Regulates voltage and eliminates buzzing. Your mechanical chime works normally.
Note: If power is lost while in Wired Power Mode, the doorbell automatically falls back to Battery Power Mode. When power is restored, it switches back automatically.
Charging When the Doorbell Is Not Installed
If the doorbell is not yet installed, you can charge the battery using a DC 5V/2A adapter (USB-C). Most smartphone Type-C adapters meet this specification and can be used to charge the doorbell battery.
For detailed instruction on installing your Reolink Doorbell Battery and Reolink Battery Video Doorbell (2nd Gen), charging it, and wiring it to existing chimes, refer to: How to Install Reolink Video Doorbell (Battery): A Comprehensive Guide.
If you have any questions, click “Submit a request” below to contact the Reolink Support Team.