Can Arlo Cameras Record to USB Hard Drive A Complete Guide

Arlo cameras cannot directly record to a USB hard drive—they rely on cloud storage or local microSD cards for footage. However, with a compatible base station or sync module, you can enable local backup via USB drives for select Arlo models, offering a flexible, cost-effective alternative to subscriptions. This guide breaks down setup steps, compatibility, and limitations to help you maximize storage options.

Key Takeaways

• Direct USB recording: Most Arlo cameras cannot record directly to USB hard drives.
• Use Arlo SmartHub: Connect a USB drive to an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station for local storage.
• Supported drives only: Use Arlo-certified USB drives for compatibility and optimal performance.
• Automatic backups: USB storage enables automatic video backups when internet is unavailable.
• No cloud dependency: Local USB recording reduces reliance on cloud subscriptions and fees.
• Check firmware: Ensure your Arlo system runs the latest firmware for USB support.

Understanding Arlo Cameras and Their Recording Options

Arlo cameras have become a household name in the world of smart home security, offering sleek designs, reliable performance, and a range of features that make monitoring your home a breeze. Whether you’re using them indoors or outdoors, Arlo’s lineup—from the budget-friendly Arlo Essential to the high-end Arlo Ultra—has something for everyone. But one question that often pops up among users is: Can Arlo cameras record to a USB hard drive? It’s a fair question, especially if you’re someone who values local storage over cloud subscriptions or simply wants to cut down on monthly fees.

When I first got my Arlo Pro 3, I was excited about its 2K video quality and motion detection. But after a few months, I started feeling the pinch of the cloud subscription costs. I’m sure many of you can relate—those recurring bills add up! That’s when I began wondering if there was a way to store my footage locally, maybe using an old USB hard drive lying around. After some research and trial-and-error, I’ve learned a lot about what works, what doesn’t, and what you should keep in mind if you’re considering the same path. Let’s dive in and explore the ins and outs of local storage with Arlo cameras.

How Arlo Cameras Handle Recording: Cloud vs. Local

The Default: Cloud-Based Recording

By default, Arlo cameras are designed to record and store footage in the cloud. This means that when motion is detected, the camera uploads the video to Arlo’s servers, and you access it through the Arlo app. It’s a convenient setup—especially for those who want instant access to their footage from anywhere in the world. But it comes with a catch: you need a subscription plan for full functionality.

Without a subscription, Arlo cameras offer limited recording options. You’ll get live streaming, basic motion alerts, and a short buffer of video before the event (called “pre-buffer”), but you won’t be able to save or review recorded clips unless you pay up. The cloud plans range from Arlo Secure (starting at $2.99 per month for one camera) to Arlo Secure Plus (which offers 4K recording and AI detection). While these plans are reasonably priced, they can become a long-term expense, especially if you have multiple cameras.

Local Recording: The Missing Piece?

Here’s the kicker: Arlo cameras do not natively support direct USB hard drive recording like some other brands (e.g., Reolink or Lorex). You can’t just plug in a USB drive and start saving clips. Instead, Arlo relies on a workaround using a base station or SmartHub—a small hub that connects to your home network and acts as a bridge between your cameras and the cloud.

The base station does support local storage, but only in the form of a microSD card, not a USB hard drive. This is a limitation many users find frustrating, especially those who already have external drives or want to store large amounts of footage without constantly swapping cards. I remember trying to use a 1TB USB drive with my base station, only to realize it wouldn’t even show up in the app. A little disappointing, to say the least.

Why Arlo Doesn’t Support USB Hard Drives

From what I’ve gathered, Arlo’s decision to skip USB drive support likely comes down to a few factors:

• Power and compatibility: USB hard drives often require more power than the base station can provide, especially if they’re not bus-powered (i.e., need an external power source).
• File system complexity: Managing large-capacity drives with different file systems (NTFS, exFAT, etc.) could complicate the user experience.
• Subscription focus: Arlo makes a significant portion of its revenue from cloud subscriptions, so encouraging local storage might reduce that income.

While I understand the business logic, it’s still a bummer for users who want more control over their data. But don’t worry—there are ways to work around this, which we’ll explore in the next section.

Workarounds: How to Record Arlo Footage to a USB Hard Drive

Option 1: Use a MicroSD Card in the Base Station, Then Transfer to USB

The most straightforward workaround is to use the base station’s built-in microSD slot and then manually transfer the footage to a USB hard drive. Here’s how:

1. Insert a microSD card (up to 2TB, depending on your base station model) into the base station.
2. In the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Base Station] > Storage and enable local recording.
3. The base station will save clips to the microSD card when motion is detected.
4. Once the card is full (or periodically), remove it and insert it into a card reader connected to your computer.
5. Copy the footage to your USB hard drive for long-term storage.

I’ve used this method for over a year, and it works well—though it’s a bit manual. For example, my 256GB microSD card lasts about two weeks with moderate activity. After that, I pop it into my laptop, copy the files to my 2TB USB drive, and reinsert the card. It’s not automated, but it’s free and gives me full control.

Pro tip: Format the microSD card using the Arlo app first to ensure compatibility. Also, keep your USB drive organized with folders (e.g., “Arlo Front Door – Jan 2024”) to avoid confusion later.

Option 2: Use a Network Video Recorder (NVR) or PC with FTP

If you’re tech-savvy, you can set up a more advanced system using a PC or NVR as a middleman. This method involves:

• Configuring your Arlo base station to send recordings to a local FTP (File Transfer Protocol) server.
• Running the FTP server on a PC or NAS (Network Attached Storage) device.
• Storing the footage on a USB hard drive connected to that device.

Here’s a quick rundown of the steps:

1. Set up an FTP server on your PC (using software like FileZilla or Windows IIS).
2. In the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Base Station] > Advanced > FTP.
3. Enter your PC’s local IP address, FTP port, username, and password.
4. Enable “FTP Recording” and choose the quality (e.g., “Best” or “Good”).
5. The base station will now send clips directly to your PC, where they can be saved to a USB drive.

This method is more hands-on, but it’s powerful. I tried it once with my old gaming PC and a 4TB USB drive. It worked, but I had to keep the PC on 24/7, which wasn’t ideal. Plus, if the PC crashed or lost internet, the recordings would stop. Still, it’s a solid option if you already have a NAS or a dedicated server.

Option 3: Third-Party Software (With Caution)

Some users turn to third-party apps or scripts (like Arlo2FTP or Home Assistant integrations) to automate the process. These tools can pull footage from your Arlo account and save it locally. However, I’d recommend caution here:

• Security risks: Third-party apps may request access to your Arlo account, which could expose your data.
• Reliability: Arlo’s API changes occasionally, which can break these tools.
• Support: You’re on your own if something goes wrong.

I once tried a Python script to automate downloads, but it stopped working after an Arlo app update. It’s a trade-off between convenience and risk. If you go this route, stick to well-reviewed tools and keep backups.

Limitations and Challenges of Local USB Recording

Storage Capacity and Management

One of the biggest challenges with local storage is managing capacity. A single 1080p clip from an Arlo camera can be 20–30MB in size, and with multiple cameras, that adds up quickly. For example:

• 1 camera, 50 events/day, 30MB/event = ~1.5GB/day = ~45GB/month
• 4 cameras, 50 events/day, 30MB/event = ~6GB/day = ~180GB/month

If you’re using a 2TB USB drive, you’ll need to offload or delete footage every few months. Unlike cloud storage, there’s no “set it and forget it” option. You’ll need to manually check space, organize files, and possibly compress older footage.

Video Quality and Retention

When recording locally via microSD or FTP, you’re limited to the base station’s processing power. This means:

• You can’t record in 4K locally—even if your camera supports it (e.g., Arlo Ultra).
• The maximum resolution is usually 1080p or 2K, depending on the model.
• Some features (like AI detection or person recognition) may not work as well without cloud processing.

I noticed this when comparing cloud and local clips. The cloud version had better motion tracking and clearer faces, while the local version was slightly blurrier. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to consider if you need high-quality evidence.

Reliability and Redundancy

USB hard drives and microSD cards are physical media, which means they can fail. I once lost a month’s worth of footage when my microSD card suddenly corrupted. It was a painful lesson—now I keep two copies: one on the microSD card and one on my USB drive.

Other risks include:

• Drive failure: Hard drives can wear out over time.
• File system errors: Improper ejection or power outages can corrupt data.
• Theft or damage: Unlike cloud storage, local drives are vulnerable to physical threats.

To mitigate these risks, consider:

• Using high-quality, name-brand microSD cards (e.g., SanDisk, Samsung).
• Backing up your USB drive regularly (e.g., using cloud storage or another drive).
• Storing the drive in a safe, temperature-controlled location.

Comparing Arlo’s Local Storage to Competitors

Arlo vs. Reolink

Reolink cameras are a popular alternative for users who want local storage. Many Reolink models (like the RLC-410W) support direct USB drive recording and even include built-in NVRs. For example, the Reolink RLK8-410B4 can record to an 8TB hard drive and offers 4K footage—all without a subscription.

In contrast, Arlo requires a base station and microSD card, which limits flexibility. If local storage is your priority, Reolink might be a better fit.

Arlo vs. Lorex

Lorex specializes in wired security systems with NVRs that support large-capacity hard drives (up to 20TB). Their cameras often come with pre-installed drives, making setup easy. While Lorex lacks Arlo’s sleek design and wireless convenience, it’s a powerhouse for local recording.

Arlo vs. Wyze

Wyze cameras (like the Wyze Cam v3) offer free local storage via microSD card—no base station required. You can also use a USB drive with a Wyze Hub, though the setup is less polished than Arlo’s. Wyze’s biggest advantage is affordability: most cameras cost under $50, and the subscription is optional.

Feature Comparison Table

Feature	Arlo	Reolink	Lorex	Wyze
Direct USB Drive Support	No (microSD only)	Yes	Yes (via NVR)	Yes (via Hub)
Cloud Subscription Required?	Yes (for full features)	No	No	No
Max Local Storage	2TB (microSD)	8TB (USB)	20TB (NVR)	2TB (microSD)
4K Local Recording	No	Yes	Yes	No
Wireless Cameras	Yes	Yes	Yes (some models)	Yes

As you can see, Arlo lags behind in local storage flexibility. But it still has strengths—like better app design, wider camera selection, and strong customer support. It’s about finding the right balance for your needs.

Tips for Maximizing Local Storage with Arlo Cameras

Choose the Right MicroSD Card

Not all microSD cards are created equal. For Arlo base stations, I recommend:

• Capacity: 128GB–256GB (for most users); 512GB–2TB (if you have multiple cameras).
• Speed class: U3 or V30 (for smooth recording).
• Brand: SanDisk, Samsung, or Kingston (avoid cheap off-brands).

I use a SanDisk 256GB Extreme card, and it’s held up well for over a year with daily use.

Optimize Recording Settings

To save space, tweak your camera settings:

• Motion detection zones: Only record areas with activity (e.g., front door, not the whole yard).
• Recording length: Set a shorter duration (e.g., 15 seconds) to reduce file size.
• Quality: Choose “Good” instead of “Best” for smaller files (if 1080p is enough).

These small changes can double your storage lifespan.

Automate Backups (If Possible)

If you’re using a PC or NAS, set up automated scripts to copy files from the microSD card to your USB drive. Tools like rsync (for Linux) or FreeFileSync (for Windows) can help. I run a weekly backup script that moves new clips to my drive—no manual effort required.

Monitor Storage Health

Check your microSD card and USB drive regularly for errors. Use tools like:

• H2testw (to test microSD card integrity)
• CHKDSK (to scan USB drives on Windows)

Early detection can prevent data loss.

Final Thoughts: Is USB Recording Worth It?

So, can Arlo cameras record to a USB hard drive? Not directly—but with a few workarounds, it’s definitely possible. The microSD card + manual transfer method is the easiest and most reliable, while the FTP/NVR route offers more automation for tech-savvy users.

Local storage has its perks: no monthly fees, full control over your data, and peace of mind knowing your footage isn’t sitting on a server somewhere. But it also comes with trade-offs—manual management, limited resolution, and the risk of drive failure.

At the end of the day, it depends on your priorities. If you value convenience and cloud features, stick with Arlo’s subscription model. But if you’re like me—someone who hates recurring bills and wants to keep their data local—then the extra effort is worth it. Just be prepared to do some legwork, and always keep backups!

Arlo may not make it easy, but with a little creativity, you can have the best of both worlds: the reliability of Arlo cameras and the freedom of local storage. Happy recording!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo cameras record to a USB hard drive?

Yes, certain Arlo camera models—like Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Ultra 2—can record to a USB hard drive when connected to an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station. This feature allows local storage as a supplement or alternative to cloud recording.

Which Arlo models support USB hard drive recording?

Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Ultra 2, and Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell (with a SmartHub) support USB recording. The base Arlo Wire-Free cameras without a SmartHub cannot use USB storage for recordings.

How do I set up USB recording on my Arlo system?

To enable USB recording, connect a compatible USB 2.0 or 3.0 drive (up to 2TB) to your Arlo SmartHub or Base Station, then format it via the Arlo app under Settings > Storage. Once set up, your Arlo cameras will automatically save footage to the drive.

Can Arlo cameras record to USB without a subscription?

Yes, USB recording works independently of Arlo’s subscription plans. This makes it a cost-effective option for continuous local recording without relying on cloud storage or paying for an Arlo Secure plan.

What file system is required for a USB hard drive with Arlo?

Arlo requires USB drives to be formatted with the exFAT or FAT32 file system. If your drive isn’t pre-formatted, use the Arlo app to format it after connecting to the SmartHub—this ensures compatibility and optimal performance.

Can I access Arlo USB recordings remotely?

Yes, you can view and download USB-stored recordings remotely through the Arlo app. However, live streaming from the USB drive still requires an internet connection to the SmartHub, even though the footage is saved locally.