Can Arlo Cameras Record Continuously Find Out Here

Yes, Arlo cameras can record continuously, but only with a compatible subscription plan and the right model, such as the Arlo Pro 3 or Ultra. Continuous recording requires an Arlo SmartHub and a paid Arlo Smart plan, enabling 24/7 video storage and reliable access to footage—ideal for comprehensive home security monitoring.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras support continuous recording with a subscription and compatible base station or hub.
• Enable 24/7 recording via Arlo Secure Plan for uninterrupted video capture and cloud storage.
• Local storage options exist using microSD or USB drives for continuous recording without fees.
• Hardwired Arlo models like Pro 4 or Ultra offer more reliable continuous recording than battery-powered ones.
• Motion detection remains key for most users, conserving storage while capturing important events.
• Check bandwidth requirements to ensure smooth continuous recording, especially with multiple cameras.
• Adjust recording schedules to balance coverage and storage limits based on your needs.

Can Arlo Cameras Record Continuously? Here’s What You Need to Know

Imagine this: You’ve just installed your shiny new Arlo camera, eager to keep an eye on your home, pets, or business. You’re scrolling through the app, and suddenly a question pops into your head: Can Arlo cameras record continuously? It’s a fair question—after all, you want to make sure nothing slips through the cracks. Maybe you’ve had a bad experience with a camera that missed a crucial moment, or you’re just someone who likes to have all the facts before making a decision. Either way, you’re not alone. Many Arlo users have asked this very question, and the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.

The short answer is: yes, Arlo cameras can record continuously, but it depends on the model, your setup, and a few other factors. Unlike some competitors that offer built-in continuous recording, Arlo’s approach is more nuanced. It’s not just a simple “on” or “off” switch. Instead, it’s about understanding how Arlo’s technology works, what your needs are, and how to configure everything to get the coverage you want. In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from the technical details to practical tips—so you can decide if continuous recording is right for you. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Arlo’s Default Recording Behavior

Before we talk about continuous recording, it’s important to understand how Arlo cameras work out of the box. Most Arlo cameras, especially the popular Pro and Ultra series, are designed for motion-activated recording. This means the camera only starts recording when it detects movement. It’s a smart system that saves battery life (for wireless models) and reduces clutter in your video history. But if you’re looking for 24/7 coverage, this default behavior might leave gaps in your footage.

How Motion-Activated Recording Works

When your Arlo camera detects motion, it starts recording a clip—usually between 10 seconds and a few minutes, depending on your settings. The camera then saves this clip to the cloud (if you have an Arlo Smart subscription) or to a local storage device (like a USB drive connected to an Arlo SmartHub). The system is designed to be efficient, but it’s not ideal if you want to capture everything, even when there’s no motion.

For example, let’s say you’re monitoring your front porch. A delivery person drops off a package, and your camera records the event. But what if a squirrel runs across the porch a few minutes later? If the motion isn’t strong enough to trigger the sensor, you might miss it. This is where continuous recording becomes appealing—it ensures nothing goes unrecorded.

The Trade-Offs of Motion-Activated Recording

• Pros: Saves battery, reduces unnecessary footage, works well for most security needs.
• Cons: Misses non-motion events, potential gaps in coverage, relies on motion detection accuracy.

The good news is that Arlo offers ways to work around these limitations. But before we get into the solutions, let’s explore why continuous recording might be worth the extra effort.

Why Continuous Recording Matters: Real-World Use Cases

Continuous recording isn’t just a “nice-to-have” feature—it’s essential for certain scenarios. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or pet parent, there are situations where having every second recorded can make a big difference.

1. Home Security and Peace of Mind

Imagine a break-in where the intruder avoids motion sensors or disables the system quickly. With continuous recording, you’d have a full timeline of events, making it easier to identify the perpetrator or provide evidence to law enforcement. Even if the camera is triggered, continuous footage ensures you don’t miss any critical details.

Tip: Pair continuous recording with a local storage option (like an Arlo SmartHub) to ensure footage is saved even if the camera is damaged or stolen.

2. Pet and Child Monitoring

If you’re using your Arlo camera to watch over pets or kids, continuous recording gives you a complete picture. You’ll see every interaction, play session, or unexpected behavior—no more wondering what happened between motion-triggered clips. This is especially useful if you’re away from home for long periods.

3. Business Surveillance

For small businesses, continuous recording can help monitor employee activity, customer behavior, or even inventory management. It’s a valuable tool for resolving disputes, improving operations, or ensuring compliance with safety protocols.

Example: A retail store owner uses continuous recording to track foot traffic patterns and identify peak hours, helping them optimize staffing and marketing efforts.

4. Evidence for Insurance Claims

Whether it’s a car accident in your driveway or property damage, continuous footage can provide irrefutable evidence for insurance claims. Unlike motion-activated clips, which might miss the full sequence of events, continuous recording captures everything.

How to Set Up Continuous Recording on Arlo Cameras

Now that you know why continuous recording is valuable, let’s get into the nitty-gritty: how to actually set it up. The process varies depending on your Arlo model, but here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Step 1: Check Your Arlo Model

Not all Arlo cameras support continuous recording out of the box. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Arlo Pro Series (Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5): Supports continuous recording with a SmartHub and local storage.
• Arlo Ultra: Offers continuous recording with a SmartHub and local storage, plus higher resolution.
• Arlo Essential Series (Indoor/Outdoor): Limited to motion-activated recording unless paired with a SmartHub.
• Arlo Wire-Free: Requires a SmartHub and local storage for continuous recording.

If your camera isn’t listed here, check Arlo’s official website for compatibility details. Older models may not support continuous recording at all.

Step 2: Get the Right Hardware

Continuous recording requires two key components:

1. Arlo SmartHub or Base Station: This device connects to your router and acts as a central hub for your cameras. It’s essential for managing local storage and enabling continuous recording.
2. Local Storage Device: A USB drive (32GB–2TB) connected to the SmartHub. The drive stores all continuous footage, so choose one with enough capacity for your needs.

Tip: Use a high-quality, high-speed USB drive to avoid buffering or playback issues.

Step 3: Configure the Settings

Once you have the hardware, follow these steps:

1. Connect the SmartHub to your router and power it on.
2. Plug the USB drive into the SmartHub.
3. Open the Arlo app and go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Camera] > Recording Settings.
4. Toggle on Continuous Recording.
5. Set your preferred retention period (e.g., 7 days, 30 days).

Note: Continuous recording will override motion-activated settings. You can still use motion alerts, but the camera will record 24/7.

Step 4: Test and Optimize

After setup, test your camera to ensure it’s recording continuously. Check the app for live footage and review saved clips. If you notice performance issues (like lag or dropped frames), try:

• Upgrading to a faster USB drive.
• Reducing the resolution (e.g., from 4K to 1080p).
• Placing the SmartHub closer to your router for better connectivity.

Local vs. Cloud Storage: Which Is Better for Continuous Recording?

One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing between local and cloud storage for your continuous recordings. Both options have pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your priorities.

Local Storage: Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • No monthly fees (unlike cloud subscriptions).
  • Faster access to footage—no need to download from the cloud.
  • More privacy, since footage stays on your property.
• Cons:
  • Risk of physical damage or theft (if the SmartHub is compromised).
  • Limited retention period based on USB drive capacity.
  • No automatic backups if the drive fails.

Example: A homeowner chooses local storage for continuous recording because they want to avoid recurring costs and don’t mind manually backing up footage.

Cloud Storage: Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Secure off-site storage, safe from physical damage or theft.
  • Unlimited retention with higher-tier plans (e.g., Arlo Secure Plus).
  • Easy sharing with law enforcement or family members.
• Cons:
  • Monthly subscription fees (starting at $3/month per camera).
  • Slower access to footage due to upload/download speeds.
  • Potential privacy concerns if the cloud is hacked.

Example: A business owner opts for cloud storage to ensure footage is always accessible, even if the office is damaged in a fire.

Hybrid Approach: Best of Both Worlds

For maximum flexibility, consider using both local and cloud storage. Many Arlo users set up continuous recording on the SmartHub while also subscribing to Arlo Secure for cloud backups. This way, you get the benefits of both systems without relying on just one.

Limitations and Workarounds for Continuous Recording

While continuous recording is a powerful tool, it’s not without limitations. Here are some common challenges and how to address them.

1. Storage Capacity

Continuous recording generates a lot of footage—especially at higher resolutions. A 1TB USB drive can fill up in days or weeks, depending on your camera’s settings. To manage this:

• Use lower resolutions (e.g., 1080p instead of 4K).
• Set shorter retention periods (e.g., 7 days instead of 30).
• Regularly back up footage to an external drive or computer.

2. Battery Drain (Wireless Models)

Wireless Arlo cameras (like the Pro 4 or Essential) drain batteries faster with continuous recording. To extend battery life:

• Use a solar panel charger.
• Reduce the frame rate (e.g., 15fps instead of 30fps).
• Limit recording to specific times (e.g., only at night).

3. Network Bandwidth

Continuous recording requires a stable, high-speed internet connection. If your network is slow or congested, you may experience buffering or dropped frames. To fix this:

• Upgrade to a faster internet plan.
• Use a wired connection for the SmartHub.
• Prioritize camera traffic with QoS (Quality of Service) settings on your router.

Data Table: Continuous Recording Requirements by Arlo Model

Arlo Model	Supports Continuous Recording?	Required Hardware	Storage Options	Best For
Arlo Pro 5	Yes	SmartHub + USB Drive	Local, Cloud, Hybrid	Home security, pet monitoring
Arlo Ultra	Yes	SmartHub + USB Drive	Local, Cloud, Hybrid	High-resolution surveillance
Arlo Essential	Yes (with SmartHub)	SmartHub + USB Drive	Local, Cloud	Budget-friendly continuous recording
Arlo Wire-Free	Yes (with SmartHub)	SmartHub + USB Drive	Local, Cloud	Wireless flexibility
Arlo Go	No	N/A	Cloud only	Mobile surveillance (LTE)

Final Thoughts: Is Continuous Recording Right for You?

So, can Arlo cameras record continuously? The answer is a resounding yes—but with some caveats. Continuous recording is a fantastic option if you need 24/7 coverage, whether for security, monitoring, or peace of mind. However, it requires the right hardware (like a SmartHub and USB drive), careful configuration, and an understanding of the trade-offs (storage, battery, and bandwidth).

The key is to assess your specific needs. If you’re okay with gaps in footage, motion-activated recording might suffice. But if you want to capture every second, continuous recording is worth the investment. And remember, you don’t have to choose just one—many users combine local and cloud storage for the best of both worlds.

At the end of the day, Arlo gives you the flexibility to customize your system. Whether you’re a tech-savvy homeowner or a busy business owner, there’s a setup that works for you. So go ahead, explore your options, and find the perfect balance between coverage and convenience. Your peace of mind is worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo cameras record continuously without a subscription?

No, continuous recording on Arlo cameras requires an Arlo Secure subscription. Without it, cameras only record short clips triggered by motion or sound detection.

How do I set up continuous recording on my Arlo camera?

To enable continuous recording, subscribe to Arlo Secure and adjust the settings in the Arlo app. Navigate to “Mode” and select “Continuous Video Recording” for supported devices like Arlo Pro 4 or Ultra.

Which Arlo cameras support continuous recording?

Most newer models, including Arlo Pro 4, Ultra, and Essential Wired, support continuous recording. Older models like Arlo Go or Q may require specific plans or hardware upgrades.

Does continuous recording drain Arlo camera batteries faster?

Yes, continuous recording significantly reduces battery life on wireless Arlo cameras. For 24/7 recording, consider wired models or keep spare batteries charged for frequent swaps.

How much storage do I need for Arlo continuous recording?

Arlo Secure plans offer cloud storage (up to 60 days) for continuous recording. Local storage options (like microSD) are also available for select base stations, depending on the plan.

Can Arlo cameras record continuously to a local storage device?

Yes, some Arlo base stations (like the SmartHub VMB5000) support local storage via microSD. However, this feature may still require an active subscription for full functionality.