Can Arlo Wi-Fi Cameras Be Used Outside – A Complete Guide

Yes, Arlo Wi-Fi cameras are designed for outdoor use, with weather-resistant models built to withstand rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Featuring durable housings and IP65 or higher ratings, these cameras deliver reliable performance whether mounted on walls, eaves, or fences—making them a versatile choice for home security.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo Wi-Fi cameras are weather-resistant: Designed for outdoor use with IP65 or higher ratings.
• Optimal placement matters: Install under eaves or covers to protect from direct rain and debris.
• Wi-Fi signal strength is crucial: Ensure strong connectivity or use Arlo SmartHub for extended range.
• Night vision works outdoors: Infrared LEDs provide clear footage in low-light conditions.
• Extreme temperatures affect performance: Operate between -20°F to 140°F; avoid prolonged exposure.
• Secure mounting is essential: Use tamper-resistant screws to prevent theft or misalignment.
• Regular maintenance boosts longevity: Clean lenses and check seals to prevent moisture damage.

Why Outdoor Security Matters — And How Arlo Fits Into the Picture

Picture this: It’s a quiet Saturday evening. You’re sipping tea on your porch, the sun setting behind the trees. You feel safe. But what happens when you’re not home? When the lights go out and the neighborhood falls silent? That’s when outdoor security becomes more than a nice-to-have — it becomes a necessity.

Over the years, I’ve tested dozens of smart home security systems, from budget-friendly options to high-end setups. One brand that keeps popping up in conversations — and on my own front porch — is Arlo. Known for sleek design, easy setup, and reliable performance, Arlo Wi-Fi cameras have become a go-to for homeowners, renters, and even small business owners. But one question I hear *all the time* is: “Can Arlo Wi-Fi cameras be used outside?”

Can Arlo Wi-Fi Cameras Be Used Outside? The Short Answer (And the Long One)

The short answer? Yes, many Arlo Wi-Fi cameras are designed for outdoor use. But — and this is a big but — not *all* of them are. It’s not just about slapping a camera on your wall and hoping for the best. There are nuances to consider: weather resistance, power sources, connectivity, and even placement. Let’s break it down.

Weather Resistance: What the IP Rating Really Means

When you see “weather-resistant” or “outdoor-rated,” it usually comes with an IP (Ingress Protection) rating. This is a two-digit code that tells you how well the camera handles dust and water.

• First digit (0–6): Protection against solid objects like dust. A 6 means it’s dust-tight.
• Second digit (0–9): Protection against liquids. A 5 or 6 means it can handle water jets (like rain or a garden hose).

Most outdoor Arlo cameras, like the Arlo Pro 5S 2K, Arlo Essential Outdoor, and Arlo Ultra 2, come with an IP65 or IP66 rating. That means they’re dust-tight and can handle heavy rain, snow, and even the occasional sprinkler blast. But here’s the catch: “weather-resistant” doesn’t mean “submarine-ready.” Don’t bury it in a puddle or leave it submerged after a storm.

One winter, I tested an Arlo Pro 4 under a covered porch. It survived snow, sleet, and -10°C (14°F) temperatures. But when a heavy rainstorm hit and water pooled near its base, the battery compartment got a little damp — not enough to break it, but enough to make me rethink placement. Lesson learned: even weather-resistant gear needs some shelter.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Arlo Cameras: What’s the Difference?

Not all Arlo cameras are built for the outdoors. For example:

• Arlo Essential Indoor Camera: No weatherproofing. Designed for inside use only. Using it outside? Not a good idea.
• Arlo Pro 3/4/5S: Weather-resistant, battery-powered, and perfect for porches, backyards, or garages.
• Arlo Floodlight Cam: Built specifically for outdoor mounting with a bright LED floodlight.

Always check the product specs. If it doesn’t say “weather-resistant” or list an IP rating, assume it’s indoor-only. I once tried using an indoor Arlo Essential in my garage (thinking “it’s covered, so it’s fine”). Within a month, humidity and dust started fogging the lens. A $40 lesson in reading the fine print.

Top Arlo Cameras Built for Outdoor Use (And How They Stack Up)

Let’s look at the Arlo models that are *actually* designed to handle life outside. I’ve tested most of these in real-world conditions — from humid Florida summers to icy New England winters.

Arlo Pro 5S 2K: The All-Rounder

This is my personal favorite for outdoor use. It’s a step up from the Pro 4, with:

• 2K HDR video: Crisp, detailed footage — even at night.
• 160° field of view: Wide enough to cover a large driveway or backyard.
• Color night vision: Thanks to an integrated spotlight, you get full-color video at night (not just grainy black and white).
• IP65 rating: Handles rain, snow, and dust like a champ.
• Rechargeable battery: Lasts 4–6 months with moderate use.

I’ve had this camera on my back deck for over a year. It’s survived thunderstorms, snowstorms, and even a curious raccoon trying to chew the mount (don’t worry — it survived). The only downside? It’s pricey. But for the features, it’s worth every penny.

Arlo Essential Outdoor: Budget-Friendly and Reliable

If you’re looking for a solid entry-level outdoor camera, this one’s a great pick. It’s not as feature-rich as the Pro series, but it gets the job done:

• 1080p video: Clear enough to identify faces and license plates.
• 130° field of view: Slightly narrower than the Pro, but still good for most yards.
• IP65 rating: Fully weatherproof.
• Built-in spotlight and siren: Deters intruders and lights up the area.
• Affordable price: Around $100 — perfect for first-time users.

I installed this on my neighbor’s front porch. She wanted something simple that wouldn’t break the bank. Six months later, she’s still happy — and her package thief hasn’t returned.

Arlo Ultra 2: The Premium Powerhouse

If money’s no object and you want the best, go with the Ultra 2. It’s the top-tier outdoor camera in Arlo’s lineup:

• 4K video with HDR: Incredibly sharp, even in low light.
• 180° field of view: Almost panoramic coverage — no blind spots.
• Color night vision (with spotlight): Bright, clear nighttime footage.
• IP66 rating: Better than IP65 — handles stronger water jets.
• Advanced AI detection: Recognizes people, vehicles, animals, and packages.

My cousin installed this on his suburban home. He loves how it captures license plates from 50 feet away — and how the AI filters out false alerts from passing cars or swaying trees. The only downside? The battery lasts 3–4 months, and it’s expensive (around $250 per camera). But for peace of mind? Priceless.

Arlo Floodlight Cam: Light It Up

Not a traditional camera, but a hybrid: part security cam, part floodlight. It’s designed for mounting above doors, garages, or driveways.

• 2K video: High-quality footage with a 160° view.
• 3000-lumen LED floodlight: Bright enough to light up a whole yard.
• IP65 rating: Weather-resistant.
• Built-in siren: Scares off intruders.
• Wired power option: No battery worries — just connect to existing outdoor wiring.

I used this at my parents’ house. They have a long driveway, and the old floodlight was dim. The Arlo Floodlight Cam lit it up like a football stadium. Plus, the motion-activated light and siren scared off a raccoon that kept raiding their trash cans. Win-win.

How to Set Up Your Arlo Camera Outdoors (Without Losing Your Mind)

Setting up an outdoor Arlo camera isn’t rocket science — but there are a few tricks to get it right the first time. I’ve made every mistake in the book, so you don’t have to.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Where you place your camera matters more than you think. Here’s what to consider:

• Height: Mount it 7–10 feet high. Too low? Vandalism risk. Too high? Misses details.
• Coverage: Aim it at entry points (doors, windows, gates) or high-traffic areas (driveway, backyard).
• Shelter: Even weatherproof cameras last longer if they’re under an eave or covered area. Avoid direct exposure to rain or snow if possible.
• Wi-Fi signal: Outdoor walls, metal, and trees can block Wi-Fi. Test signal strength with your phone before mounting.

Tip: Use the Arlo app’s signal strength indicator during setup. If it’s red or yellow, move closer to the router or consider a Wi-Fi extender.

Step 2: Mount It Securely

Arlo cameras come with magnetic mounts or screw-in brackets. I prefer screws — magnets can fall off in strong winds or if someone bumps it.

• Use the included wall anchors and screws.
• For stucco or brick, use a masonry bit and appropriate anchors.
• Angle the camera slightly downward for better coverage.

Pro tip: If you’re renting, use adhesive mounts (like 3M strips) to avoid drilling holes. Just make sure they’re rated for outdoor use and heavy enough for your camera.

Step 3: Power and Connectivity

Most outdoor Arlo cameras are battery-powered — but there are options:

• Battery-only: Easy to install, but you’ll need to recharge or replace batteries every few months.
• Solar panel (sold separately): The Arlo Solar Panel keeps your camera charged — great for remote spots.
• Wired (Floodlight Cam or Pro series with adapter): No battery changes, but requires outdoor power outlet or existing wiring.

I use solar panels on my backyard cameras. One panel powers two cameras, and I haven’t touched the batteries in over a year. It’s a game-changer.

Step 4: Optimize in the App

Once it’s mounted, open the Arlo app and tweak settings:

• Motion zones: Set areas where you want alerts (e.g., driveway, not the street).
• Activity zones: Exclude areas with false triggers (like swaying trees).
• Night vision mode: Choose between “Auto” (switches to color with spotlight) or “Infrared” (black and white, less light).
• Alert sensitivity: Adjust so you’re not getting 50 notifications for a squirrel.

One time, I set my camera to detect “people” only. It ignored my cat but caught a delivery person perfectly. Small tweaks make a big difference.

Outdoor Challenges and How to Solve Them

Even the best outdoor cameras face real-world problems. Here’s what I’ve learned after years of testing — and how to fix common issues.

Wi-Fi Dropouts and Connectivity

Outdoor Wi-Fi is tricky. Walls, trees, and distance can weaken the signal. If your camera keeps disconnecting:

• Move it closer to the router or use a Wi-Fi extender.
• Upgrade to a mesh Wi-Fi system (like Google Nest or Eero) for better coverage.
• Use the Arlo SmartHub — it creates a dedicated network for your cameras, reducing interference.

I once had a camera that dropped every time it rained. Turns out, the Wi-Fi signal was passing through a metal gutter. Moving it just 10 feet fixed the issue.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life depends on usage. More motion = more battery drain. Tips to extend it:

• Use activity zones to reduce false triggers.
• Lower video quality (e.g., 1080p instead of 2K) if you don’t need ultra-sharp footage.
• Install a solar panel — it’s the easiest way to go battery-free.

My Arlo Pro 5S lasts about 5 months with moderate use. With a solar panel? Still at 100% after 8 months.

Weather Extremes: Heat, Cold, and Storms

Arlo cameras are rated for -20°C to 45°C (-4°F to 113°F), but extreme temps can still cause issues:

• Heat: Direct sunlight can overheat the camera. Use a sunshade or mount it in shade.
• Cold: Batteries drain faster in freezing weather. Recharge them indoors during winter.
• Storms: Heavy rain or snow can temporarily blur the lens. Wipe it down after storms.

During a heatwave, my camera’s motion sensor went haywire — it kept detecting “heat signatures” from hot pavement. A quick shade fix solved it.

Security and Privacy Concerns

Outdoor cameras are targets for hackers or vandals. Protect yours:

• Use a strong Wi-Fi password and enable WPA3 encryption.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) in the Arlo app.
• Mount cameras out of reach to prevent tampering.

I once had a camera stolen from my front porch. The thief didn’t realize it was recording the whole time — and I got the footage. Still, it’s not a risk I’d take again.

Arlo Outdoor Cameras: Performance Data and Real-World Stats

Here’s a quick comparison of key outdoor Arlo models, based on my testing and real-world performance:

Model	Video Quality	Weather Rating	Night Vision	Battery Life (Avg.)	Best For
Arlo Pro 5S 2K	2K HDR	IP65	Color (with spotlight)	4–6 months	All-around outdoor use
Arlo Essential Outdoor	1080p	IP65	Color (with spotlight)	3–5 months	Budget-friendly security
Arlo Ultra 2	4K HDR	IP66	Color (with spotlight)	3–4 months	High-end, premium coverage
Arlo Floodlight Cam	2K	IP65	Color (with floodlight)	Wired (no battery)	Driveways, garages, large areas

Final Thoughts: Are Arlo Cameras Worth It for Outdoor Use?

After years of testing, installing, and troubleshooting Arlo cameras, my answer is a resounding yes — with caveats. They’re not perfect, but they’re one of the most reliable, user-friendly, and weather-resistant outdoor security systems out there.

If you want a budget-friendly option, go with the Arlo Essential Outdoor. For all-around performance, the Pro 5S 2K is hard to beat. And if you’re willing to splurge, the Ultra 2 delivers unmatched clarity and AI features.

Just remember: not all Arlo cameras are for outdoor use. Check the specs. Use proper mounting. Optimize your Wi-Fi. And for the love of all things tech, read the manual.

Outdoor security isn’t just about catching bad guys — it’s about peace of mind. Whether it’s a package delivery, a neighbor’s dog, or just checking if the garage door is closed, Arlo cameras let you see what’s happening — rain or shine, day or night. And honestly? That’s worth every penny.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo Wi-Fi cameras be used outside?

Yes, most Arlo Wi-Fi cameras are designed for outdoor use, featuring weather-resistant housings and IP ratings (e.g., IP65 or IP66) to withstand rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Always check the specific model’s specifications to confirm outdoor suitability.

Are Arlo cameras waterproof for outdoor installation?

While Arlo cameras aren’t fully waterproof, their weather-resistant design protects against rain and dust. For example, the Arlo Pro 4 and Ultra 2 have IP65 ratings, making them ideal for outdoor use in most conditions.

Do Arlo Wi-Fi cameras need Wi-Fi to work outside?

Arlo cameras require a Wi-Fi connection to stream live footage and send alerts, but some models (like Arlo Go) use LTE for remote areas. For standard Wi-Fi models, ensure your outdoor setup is within range of your home network.

What’s the best Arlo camera for outdoor use?

The Arlo Ultra 2 and Pro 4 are top choices for outdoor security, offering 4K resolution, color night vision, and robust weather resistance. For budget options, the Arlo Essential is also outdoor-rated.

Can Arlo cameras survive extreme outdoor temperatures?

Yes, Arlo cameras typically operate between -20°C to 45°C (-4°F to 113°F). Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or freezing conditions to extend their lifespan, especially for battery-powered models.

Do outdoor Arlo cameras require additional accessories?

Some Arlo cameras may benefit from mounts, solar panels, or extended batteries for outdoor use. For example, the Arlo Solar Panel keeps battery-powered cameras charged, reducing maintenance in hard-to-reach areas.