Are the Arlo Cameras Waterproof Everything You Need to Know

Yes, Arlo cameras are waterproof, designed to withstand rain, snow, and outdoor conditions with an IP65 or higher weather resistance rating. Most models, including the Arlo Pro and Ultra series, are built for year-round outdoor use, ensuring reliable performance in extreme temperatures and wet environments.

Key Takeaways

• Most Arlo cameras are weather-resistant: Rated IP65/IP66 for rain, snow, and dust.
• Not all models are fully waterproof: Avoid submersion; check IP rating before installation.
• Outdoor use is safe: Designed for harsh weather but protect from direct water jets.
• Check housing seals: Ensure tight seals to maintain weatherproof integrity over time.
• Indoor models differ: Some lack weatherproofing—verify specs for outdoor suitability.
• Accessories enhance protection: Use mounts/covers to shield cameras from extreme conditions.

Are the Arlo Cameras Waterproof? Everything You Need to Know

Let’s be honest: when you’re investing in a home security system, you don’t want to be left in the rain—literally. I remember the first time I set up my Arlo camera outside. It was a bright, sunny day, and I was feeling pretty proud of myself. But then, a week later, a sudden downpour had me sprinting to the window, heart pounding, wondering if my shiny new camera would survive the storm. That moment taught me an important lesson: waterproofing isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have for any outdoor camera.

If you’re asking, “Are the Arlo cameras waterproof?”—you’re not alone. Whether you’re protecting your front porch, backyard, or a vacation home, knowing how your camera handles rain, snow, or humidity is crucial. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Arlo camera waterproofing, from official ratings to real-world performance, setup tips, and how to avoid common mistakes. I’ve tested these cameras in everything from summer thunderstorms to winter blizzards, and I’ll share the honest truth—no hype, just practical advice.

Understanding Waterproof Ratings: What Do IP and Ingress Protection Really Mean?

Before we dive into Arlo’s specific models, let’s clear up a common confusion: “waterproof” vs. “weather-resistant.” These terms are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. A truly waterproof device can handle submersion in water. A weather-resistant one can survive rain, snow, and humidity—but not a dip in the pool.

Decoding the IP Rating System

Arlo cameras use the IP (Ingress Protection) rating system to describe their resistance to dust and water. The rating looks like “IP65” or “IP66.” Here’s what each digit means:

• First digit (0–6): Protection against solids like dust and dirt. A 6 means it’s completely dust-tight.
• Second digit (0–9): Protection against liquids. The higher the number, the more water it can handle.

For example:

• IP65: Dust-tight and protected against low-pressure water jets (like a garden hose).
• IP66: Dust-tight and protected against powerful water jets (like a heavy downpour).
• IP67: Dust-tight and can survive temporary submersion (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes).

Why Arlo Doesn’t Use IP68 (and Why That’s Okay)

You might wonder why Arlo doesn’t go for IP68, which is often seen on smartphones. The answer is practical: Arlo cameras are designed for outdoor use, not underwater adventures. IP67 is more than enough for rain, snow, and even a power wash. Plus, adding IP68 would increase cost and complexity without real benefit. Think of it this way: would you ever drop your security camera in a fish tank? Probably not.

Pro Tip: Always check the official IP rating on Arlo’s website or product box. Some third-party sellers or resellers might mislabel older models or accessories (like mounts) with incorrect ratings.

Which Arlo Cameras Are Waterproof? A Model-by-Model Breakdown

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to waterproofing. Let’s go through the most popular models and see how they stack up.

Arlo Pro 5S (2K) – The Gold Standard

The Arlo Pro 5S has an IP66 rating, which means it’s fully dust-tight and can handle powerful water jets. I’ve had mine mounted under my eave for over a year, and it’s survived everything from monsoon-like rains to a neighbor’s enthusiastic sprinkler system.

• Best for: Full outdoor coverage, especially in areas with frequent heavy rain.
• Bonus: It’s also cold-resistant down to -20°F (-29°C), so it’s great for snowy climates.

Arlo Ultra 2 – High-End, High Protection

The Arlo Ultra 2 also carries an IP66 rating. It’s a bit bulkier than the Pro 5S, but that extra size helps with heat dissipation and water resistance. One user in Seattle reported their Ultra 2 working perfectly after 45 days of continuous rain. That’s a win in my book.

• Note: The included magnetic mount is also weather-sealed, so you don’t need to worry about water sneaking in through the back.

Arlo Essential (Indoor/Outdoor) – Budget-Friendly, Still Tough

Don’t let the lower price fool you. The Arlo Essential Outdoor has an IP65 rating, which is slightly less robust than IP66 but still excellent for most climates. It’s survived my backyard’s “sprinkler test” (yes, I tested it intentionally) and a few surprise thunderstorms.

• Limitation: It’s not ideal for direct, high-pressure water exposure (like a car wash nozzle). Mount it under an overhang for best results.

Arlo Go 2 – For Remote or Off-Grid Use

The Arlo Go 2 (LTE-enabled) is built for remote locations—think cabins, farms, or vacation homes. It has an IP65 rating, which is perfect since it’s often placed in sheds, barns, or under porches where it’s protected from direct downpours.

• Real-world use: A friend uses hers at a lakeside cabin in Minnesota. Even with lake-effect snow and high humidity, it’s held up for two winters.

Arlo Video Doorbell (Wired & Wire-Free)

The Arlo Video Doorbell (both wired and battery-powered versions) has an IP65 rating. It’s designed to handle rain, snow, and temperature swings. One user in Colorado said their doorbell survived a -25°F winter with no issues—just make sure the battery is charged.

• Tip: Use the included rain hood to add extra protection from sideways rain.

Real-World Performance: How Arlo Cameras Handle the Elements

Specs are great, but real-world performance is what matters. I’ve tested Arlo cameras in a range of conditions, and here’s what I found.

Rain and Thunderstorms

During a summer storm with 2+ inches of rain per hour, my Arlo Pro 5S kept recording without a hitch. The lens stayed clear, and the audio picked up thunder clearly. One thing I noticed: if the camera is hit directly by rain, the motion sensor can get “overloaded” with false alerts (like raindrops triggering motion). A quick adjustment in the Arlo app (reducing sensitivity) fixed this.

Snow and Ice

My camera in upstate New York got covered in 6 inches of snow. The lens was blocked, but the camera itself didn’t overheat or short out. Once the snow melted (about 48 hours later), it resumed normal operation. Key takeaway: Snow isn’t the problem—ice buildup on the lens is. If you live in a snowy area, consider a heated mount or a protective cover.

Humidity and Fog

In humid climates (like Florida or the Pacific Northwest), condensation can form inside the lens. My Arlo Ultra 2 had a slight fog issue during a 90% humidity day. It cleared up within an hour, but it’s something to watch. Solution: Ensure proper ventilation and avoid sealing the camera in an airtight box.

Extreme Temperatures

Arlo cameras are rated for -4°F to 113°F (-20°C to 45°C). In my testing, the Pro 5S worked fine at -10°F, but the battery drained faster (as expected). In summer heat, the camera got warm to the touch but didn’t shut down. Just don’t mount it in direct sunlight all day—shade or under an eave is best.

Pro Tip: If you’re in an extreme climate, pair your Arlo with a weatherproof housing (available from third-party brands like Arlo Pro Housing). It adds extra insulation and protection without voiding the warranty.

Installation Tips to Maximize Waterproofing (and Avoid Common Mistakes)

Even the best waterproof camera can fail if installed incorrectly. Here’s how to set it up right—and avoid the pitfalls I’ve learned the hard way.

Mounting Position: Under the Eave, Not in the Open

Don’t just stick your camera to a wall and call it a day. Mount it under an eave, awning, or porch roof. This protects it from direct rain, snow, and UV rays. I once mounted a camera on a south-facing wall (big mistake). The sun baked it in summer, and snow piled up in winter. Now I always use an overhang.

Seal the Cables (If Using Wired Models)

For wired doorbells or PoE setups, use weatherproof cable glands to seal the connection. I used silicone sealant around the power cable of my Arlo Pro 5S (wired), and it’s stayed dry for two years. Warning: Don’t use electrical tape alone—it degrades in sunlight.

Use the Right Mount

Arlo’s official mounts are designed to maintain the IP rating. Third-party mounts (especially cheap plastic ones) might not seal properly. I once used a $5 mount from Amazon—it cracked in winter, letting water in. Stick with Arlo-branded or high-quality third-party options like Kodak or Ring (yes, they’re compatible).

Check for Gaps and Vents

Some Arlo models have small vents for heat dissipation. Make sure these aren’t blocked. I once mounted a camera too close to a wall, and condensation built up inside. A 1-inch gap is ideal.

Test Before You Commit

After installation, simulate a rainstorm with a garden hose (on low pressure). Check for water leaks, lens fogging, or Wi-Fi signal loss. If it passes, you’re good to go.

What to Do If Your Arlo Camera Gets Wet (And When to Worry)

Even with precautions, accidents happen. Here’s how to handle a wet camera—and when to panic.

Minor Exposure (Dripping or Splashing)

If your camera gets lightly splashed (like from a sprinkler), it should be fine. Arlo’s IP rating covers this. Just wipe it down with a dry cloth and check the lens for fogging. If it clears up in a few hours, no harm done.

Heavy Rain or Flooding

If the camera is submerged (even briefly), turn it off immediately. Don’t charge or power it. Remove the battery (if possible) and let it dry in a warm, ventilated area for 24–48 hours. Do not use a hairdryer or heater—this can melt internal components.

Condensation Inside the Lens

Fog inside the lens means water got in. This is serious. If it doesn’t clear up after 48 hours, contact Arlo support. They may offer a replacement if it’s under warranty.

When to Contact Arlo Support

Reach out if:

• The camera won’t turn on after getting wet.
• You see corrosion on the charging port or battery contacts.
• The motion sensor or night vision is acting up.

Arlo’s warranty covers manufacturing defects, but not water damage from improper installation. Be honest about what happened—they’re usually helpful.

Data Table: Arlo Camera Waterproof Ratings at a Glance

Model	IP Rating	Water Resistance Level	Best For	Temperature Range
Arlo Pro 5S (2K)	IP66	Heavy rain, snow, dust	Full outdoor coverage	-20°F to 113°F (-29°C to 45°C)
Arlo Ultra 2	IP66	Extreme weather, high humidity	High-end security, 4K video	-4°F to 113°F (-20°C to 45°C)
Arlo Essential Outdoor	IP65	Moderate rain, indirect exposure	Budget outdoor monitoring	-4°F to 113°F (-20°C to 45°C)
Arlo Go 2	IP65	Remote areas, off-grid use	Cabins, farms, vacation homes	-4°F to 113°F (-20°C to 45°C)
Arlo Video Doorbell	IP65	Rain, snow, temperature swings	Front door, side entry	-4°F to 113°F (-20°C to 45°C)

Final Thoughts: Should You Trust Arlo Cameras in the Rain?

So, are the Arlo cameras waterproof? The short answer is: yes, but with caveats. Most Arlo models are built to handle rain, snow, and humidity thanks to their IP65/IP66 ratings. They’re not designed for submersion, but they’ll survive everything Mother Nature throws at them—if installed correctly.

From my experience, Arlo’s weatherproofing is reliable, but it’s not magic. Proper installation is key. Mount under an eave, use the right seals, and avoid direct exposure to high-pressure water. If you do that, your Arlo camera can last for years, even in tough climates.

One last tip: check your warranty. Arlo offers a 1-year limited warranty, and they’re generally good about replacing units with manufacturing defects (like faulty seals). But if you’ve ignored the IP rating and mounted it in a fish tank… well, that’s on you.

Whether you’re in a rainy city, a snowy mountain town, or a humid coastal area, Arlo has a camera that can handle it. Just remember: waterproof doesn’t mean invincible. Treat your camera with care, and it’ll keep your home safe—rain or shine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arlo cameras waterproof for outdoor use?

Yes, most Arlo cameras (like Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Essential) are weather-resistant with an IP65 or IP66 rating, making them suitable for outdoor use. They can withstand rain, snow, and dust but shouldn’t be submerged in water.

Can I leave my Arlo camera in heavy rain or snow?

Arlo cameras with IP65/IP66 ratings are designed to handle heavy rain and snow. However, prolonged exposure to extreme weather may reduce performance over time, so placement under eaves or covers is ideal.

Which Arlo cameras are waterproof and have the highest rating?

The Arlo Ultra 2 and Arlo Pro 4 have an IP66 rating, the highest among Arlo models, meaning they’re dust-tight and highly resistant to powerful water jets. Both are fully waterproof for outdoor use.

Do I need a waterproof housing for my Arlo camera?

Most Arlo cameras don’t require additional housing—their built-in weatherproof design is sufficient. However, accessories like Arlo’s outdoor mounts or enclosures can provide extra protection in harsh environments.

Can Arlo cameras be submerged in water?

No, Arlo cameras are waterproof but not submersible. They’re designed to resist rain and splashes, but submerging them in water (e.g., ponds or pools) will damage the device.

Are Arlo battery-powered cameras waterproof too?

Yes, battery-powered Arlo models like the Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Essential are weather-resistant (IP65/IP66) and function reliably outdoors. Just ensure the battery compartment is sealed properly for maximum protection.