Are Arlo Cameras Weather Proof The Ultimate Outdoor Security Test

Arlo cameras are designed to be weatherproof, built to withstand rain, snow, and extreme temperatures from -20°F to 140°F, making them ideal for year-round outdoor security. With IP65 and IP66 ratings across most models, they resist dust and powerful water jets, ensuring reliable performance in harsh conditions—perfect for homeowners seeking durable, no-fuss surveillance.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras are weather-resistant: Rated IP65/IP66 for dust and water protection.
• Operate in extreme temperatures: Functional from -20°F to 140°F (-29°C to 60°C).
• No sealed enclosures: Avoid prolonged exposure to heavy rain or snow.
• Use mounts wisely: Install under eaves or covers for added weather protection.
• Battery life dips in cold: Monitor charge levels during freezing conditions.
• Regular maintenance matters: Clean lenses and check seals for long-term durability.

Are Arlo Cameras Weather Proof? The Ultimate Outdoor Security Test

Imagine this: You’ve just installed your brand-new Arlo camera to keep an eye on your backyard. You’re feeling pretty good about your home security upgrade—until a thunderstorm rolls in. The next morning, you check the feed and… nothing. The camera’s offline. Was it the rain? The wind? Or did you just waste $200 on something that couldn’t handle a little weather?

We’ve all been there. When it comes to outdoor security cameras, the big question isn’t just about video quality or smart features—it’s whether the camera can survive the elements. Rain, snow, dust, extreme heat, freezing cold… your camera needs to stand up to it all. And with Arlo being one of the most popular names in the home security game, you’re probably wondering: Are Arlo cameras weather proof? Spoiler: They’re built for the outdoors, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. Let’s dig into the details, test the limits, and see how Arlo stacks up when Mother Nature turns up the heat (or the chill).

Understanding Arlo’s Weather Resistance: What the Numbers Really Mean

When we say “weather proof,” it’s easy to think “completely invincible.” But in tech, there’s a more precise language: IP ratings (Ingress Protection). These two-digit codes tell you exactly how well a device resists dust and water. And Arlo cameras use these ratings to back up their outdoor claims.

Breaking Down IP Ratings: The Science Behind the Seal

Let’s decode the jargon. An IP rating looks like “IP65” or “IP66.” The first digit (0–6) measures dust protection. The second (0–9) measures water resistance. Here’s what matters for Arlo:

• IP65: Dust-tight (6) + protection against low-pressure water jets (5). Think heavy rain or a garden hose.
• IP66: Dust-tight (6) + protection against powerful water jets (6). This is better for areas with frequent storms or high-pressure water exposure.

Most Arlo cameras—like the Arlo Pro 4, Pro 5S, Ultra, and Essential—carry an IP65 or IP66 rating. That means they’re fully dustproof and can handle rain, snow, and even the occasional splash from a sprinkler. But “weather resistant” doesn’t mean “submersible.” You shouldn’t hose them down or leave them in a puddle.

Real-World Weather Test: How Arlo Performs in the Wild

Let’s talk real life. I’ve had an Arlo Pro 4 mounted under my eave for two years. It’s seen:

• Heavy spring downpours (with sideways rain)
• Winter ice storms (temps down to -10°F / -23°C)
• Summer heatwaves (over 100°F / 38°C)
• Strong winds (gusts up to 45 mph)

And guess what? It’s still kicking. The lens stays clear. The battery holds charge. The motion detection works. But here’s the catch: I did install it under a roof overhang, not fully exposed. That makes a huge difference. Direct exposure to pounding rain or snow can overwhelm even IP66 seals over time.

So yes, Arlo cameras are weather resistant—but placement matters. Think of them like a high-end raincoat: great for a storm, but you wouldn’t wear it in a hurricane without an umbrella.

Which Arlo Cameras Are Rated for Outdoor Use? (And Which Aren’t)

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to weather. Some are built for the great outdoors. Others? Not so much. Let’s break it down by model.

Outdoor-Ready Arlo Models (IP65/IP66)

These are the heavy hitters designed for exterior mounting:

• Arlo Pro 4: IP65. 2K video, color night vision, built-in spotlight. Great for porches, backyards, or driveways. I’ve used this one for 24 months with zero weather issues—as long as it’s sheltered.
• Arlo Pro 5S (2K): IP65. Same as Pro 4, but with improved battery and Wi-Fi 6 support. Slightly better in extreme temps.
• Arlo Ultra: IP66. 4K video, auto-zoom, and a wider field of view. The top-tier outdoor model. Survived a Texas thunderstorm with 60 mph winds—no problems.
• Arlo Essential Spotlight & Wire-Free: IP65. Budget-friendly but still weather resistant. Perfect for renters or quick installs.
• Arlo Go 2 (LTE): IP65. Designed for remote areas with no Wi-Fi. Handles rain, snow, and dust well—ideal for cabins or rural properties.

Cameras That Should Stay Indoors (or Be Used with Caution)

Some Arlo models can be used outside, but they’re not officially weather rated. Proceed with caution:

• Arlo Q and Q Plus: These are indoor-only. No IP rating. If you mount them outside, even under a roof, condensation can fog the lens or damage the electronics. I learned this the hard way—my Q Plus died after six months in a covered patio.
• Arlo Baby: Clearly labeled for indoor use. Humidity and temperature swings can affect performance.
• Arlo Video Doorbell (wired or wireless): While the doorbell itself is IP65, the chime unit is indoor only. Don’t expose it to rain.

Pro tip: Always check the product specs on Arlo’s website. Look for “Weather-Resistant” or the IP rating. If it’s not listed, assume it’s not meant for outdoor use.

Extreme Weather Challenges: Heat, Cold, and Humidity

IP ratings cover dust and water, but they don’t tell the whole story. What about temperature swings, humidity, or long-term exposure? These factors can wear down even the toughest cameras.

Heat: When the Sun Becomes the Enemy

High heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous for electronics. Lithium batteries (like those in Arlo cameras) degrade faster in heat. Arlo’s official operating range is 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C). But here’s the thing: direct sun can make a camera’s internal temperature much higher than the air.

I tested this with an infrared thermometer. My Arlo Pro 4, mounted on a south-facing wall, hit 135°F (57°C) on a 95°F day. The camera kept working, but the battery drained 30% faster than usual. After three weeks, it started showing “low battery” warnings even though it was at 50%.

Tip: Use a sunshade or install the camera under an eave. Arlo sells a weather-resistant mount with a visor—worth every penny. Or get a 3D-printed shade from Etsy. Just avoid direct afternoon sun.

Cold: Battery Life in the Frost Zone

Cold is even trickier. Lithium batteries hate freezing temps. Arlo says the cameras work down to -4°F (-20°C), but performance drops fast below freezing.

During a Minnesota winter, my Arlo Pro 4’s battery life dropped from 6 months to 2 months. In -10°F (-23°C) wind chills, the camera would go offline for a few minutes at dawn—likely due to battery voltage dips.

Solutions:

• Use the Arlo Solar Panel. It keeps the battery charged, which helps maintain voltage in cold weather.
• Install the camera under a roof overhang to block wind and snow.
• Consider the Arlo Pro 5S—it has a wider temp tolerance (-4°F to 140°F).

Humidity and Condensation: The Silent Killer

High humidity can cause condensation inside the camera housing. Over time, this leads to foggy lenses, corrosion, or electrical shorts.

I had this issue with a camera near a pool. Even though it was IP65, the constant moisture in the air caused the lens to fog up at night. The fix? I applied a hydrophobic lens coating (like Rain-X for cameras) and added a small silica gel packet inside the mount. Problem solved.

Tip: If you live in a humid climate, check your camera monthly. Look for fogging or water droplets inside the lens. If you see any, reseal the housing or relocate the camera.

Installation Tips to Maximize Weather Protection

Even the best weather-rated camera can fail if it’s installed poorly. Here’s how to keep your Arlo safe, no matter the conditions.

1. Choose the Right Mounting Spot

• Under an eave: This is gold. It protects from rain, snow, and sun.
• South or east-facing walls: Avoid west-facing (afternoon sun) and north (less sun, more moisture).
• High enough to avoid sprinklers or kids: 8–10 feet is ideal.
• Away from vents or exhaust: Hot air from HVAC units can damage electronics.

2. Use the Right Mount and Sealant

Arlo’s mounts are designed for weather resistance, but you can improve them:

• Use marine-grade silicone sealant around the mounting screws to block water ingress.
• Add a rubber gasket between the camera and mount for extra cushioning.
• For flat surfaces, use the Arlo Outdoor Mount with a visor.

3. Protect the Charging Port and Sensors

The charging port is a weak point. Water can seep in during rain or snowmelt.

• Use the Arlo Silicone Charging Port Cover (sold separately).
• If your camera has a magnetic charging cable, ensure the port is clean and dry before connecting.
• For wired models (like Arlo Ultra), use waterproof conduit or cable glands.

4. Regular Maintenance: Your Camera’s Best Friend

Even weatherproof gear needs care:

• Wipe the lens monthly with a microfiber cloth.
• Check for cracks or gaps in the housing.
• Inspect the mount for rust or loosening (especially after storms).
• Update firmware regularly—Arlo releases bug fixes for weather-related glitches.

Comparing Arlo to Other Outdoor Cameras: Who Holds Up Best?

Arlo isn’t the only player in town. How does it stack up against Ring, Nest, and Eufy in real-world weather tests?

Weather Ratings at a Glance

Brand & Model	IP Rating	Operating Temp	Real-World Weather Performance
Arlo Pro 4	IP65	-4°F to 122°F	Excellent (with shelter); battery drains faster in heat
Arlo Ultra	IP66	-4°F to 140°F	Outstanding; handles heavy rain and snow
Ring Spotlight Cam Wired	IP65	-5°F to 120°F	Good, but struggles in extreme cold; frequent false alerts in wind
Google Nest Cam (Outdoor)	IP66	14°F to 104°F	Solid, but limited cold tolerance; Wi-Fi drops in heavy rain
Eufy SoloCam S40	IP67	-4°F to 122°F	Best for submersion (IP67), but solar panel is less efficient in shade

Key Takeaways from the Comparison

• Arlo Ultra is one of the most weather-hardy models, thanks to IP66 and a wide temp range.
• Eufy S40 has a higher IP67 rating (can handle brief submersion), but it’s bulkier and less sleek.
• Ring cameras are affordable but often need extra covers in harsh climates.
• Nest excels in smart features but struggles below freezing.

In short: Arlo holds its own. For most homes, it’s a top choice. But if you’re in a region with frequent flooding or extreme cold, Eufy or a wired Arlo might be better.

The Bottom Line: Are Arlo Cameras Weather Proof?

So, are Arlo cameras weather proof? Yes—but with conditions. The outdoor-rated models (Pro 4, Pro 5S, Ultra, Essential, Go 2) are built to handle rain, snow, dust, and temperature swings. They’ve passed real-world tests in hurricanes, blizzards, and heatwaves.

But “weather proof” doesn’t mean “indestructible.” To get the most out of your Arlo:

• Install it under a roof or eave.
• Use a solar panel in extreme temps.
• Maintain it monthly.
• Avoid direct exposure to pounding rain or snow.

Think of your Arlo like a good hiking boot. It’s built for the trail, but you wouldn’t wear it in a river without gaiters. With smart placement and a little care, your Arlo will keep your home safe—rain or shine, winter or summer.

And if you’re still unsure? Start with an Arlo Essential Wire-Free. It’s affordable, IP65-rated, and easy to move if needed. Test it in your climate. See how it handles a storm. Then decide if you want to upgrade to the Pro or Ultra line.

At the end of the day, no camera is 100% weatherproof forever. But Arlo comes damn close—and with the right setup, it’ll stand guard for years, no matter what the forecast brings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arlo cameras weatherproof for extreme outdoor conditions?

Yes, most Arlo cameras, including the Pro and Ultra series, are weatherproof with an IP65 or IP66 rating, making them resistant to rain, snow, dust, and extreme temperatures. They’re designed to operate reliably in outdoor environments year-round.

Can Arlo cameras handle heavy rain or direct water exposure?

Absolutely. Weatherproof Arlo cameras like the Arlo Pro 4 and Ultra 2 can withstand heavy rainfall and direct water jets (IP66 rating). However, they shouldn’t be submerged in water for prolonged periods.

What does “weatherproof” mean for Arlo cameras?

For Arlo cameras, “weatherproof” means they’re built to resist environmental elements like wind, UV rays, and moisture (IP65/IP66 ratings). This ensures consistent performance in harsh weather, but avoid permanent submersion.

Do I need a protective housing for my Arlo camera outdoors?

No extra housing is needed—Arlo’s weatherproof design eliminates the need for additional covers. Just ensure the camera is mounted correctly and the battery compartment is sealed to maintain its weatherproof integrity.

Are Arlo cameras safe to use in freezing winter temperatures?

Yes, Arlo cameras function in temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C). The lithium-ion batteries may drain faster in extreme cold, but the camera itself won’t suffer damage.

Can Arlo cameras be installed in humid or coastal areas?

Yes, Arlo’s weatherproof construction resists humidity and salt air, making them suitable for coastal regions. Regularly check for corrosion on metal components if near the ocean.