How to Turn Off Audio on Arlo Cameras Quick Guide

Yes, you can turn off audio on Arlo cameras through the Arlo app by adjusting the microphone settings in your camera’s configuration. This quick fix ensures privacy and compliance with local recording laws—simply toggle off the microphone during live view or disable it entirely in the device settings.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can disable audio in Arlo app settings under device preferences.
• Toggle off “Audio” mode to stop live and recorded sound instantly.
• Microphone off means no audio alerts—ensure this aligns with your security needs.
• Disable two-way talk if privacy is a concern during monitoring.
• Re-enable anytime via the same settings for flexible control.
• Check local laws before disabling audio to comply with recording regulations.

Why You Might Want to Turn Off Audio on Your Arlo Cameras

Let’s face it: home security cameras like Arlo are amazing for peace of mind. You can check in on your house from anywhere, see who’s at the door, and even catch the occasional raccoon digging through your trash (we’ve all been there). But sometimes, the audio feature can feel a little *too* powerful. Maybe you’re recording conversations without realizing it, or perhaps you just don’t want to hear the neighbor’s dog barking all night. Whatever the reason, knowing how to turn off audio on Arlo cameras is a handy skill to have.

Audio can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it adds context—like hearing a delivery driver say “package at the front door” or catching the sound of glass breaking. On the other, it raises privacy concerns, especially if your camera captures conversations between neighbors or even your own family members. And let’s be real: not every moment needs to be recorded with sound. Whether you’re troubleshooting, adjusting settings, or just prefer a quieter surveillance experience, this guide will walk you through the ins and outs of disabling audio on your Arlo cameras—without the tech jargon or confusing menus.

Understanding Arlo Camera Audio Features

How Audio Works on Arlo Cameras

Arlo cameras come with built-in microphones that capture sound alongside video. This feature is great for spotting unusual noises (think: smoke alarms, breaking glass, or even a crying baby). But here’s the thing: audio recording isn’t always necessary, and in some cases, it’s even illegal. For example, recording conversations without consent violates wiretapping laws in certain states. So, knowing how to turn off audio on Arlo cameras isn’t just about convenience—it’s about staying compliant and respecting privacy.

Most Arlo models (like the Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Essential) support two-way audio, meaning you can both hear and speak through the camera. But if you’re not using the speaker function, the mic might still be recording passively. This is where things get tricky. Even if you’re not actively listening, the camera could still store audio clips in the cloud or local storage. That’s why it’s crucial to understand your camera’s settings and how to adjust them.

When to Keep Audio On (and When to Turn It Off)

Before we dive into disabling audio, let’s talk about when it *does* make sense to keep it on:

• Monitoring kids or pets: Hearing a child’s cry or a pet’s bark can be lifesaving.
• Security alerts: Audio can help distinguish between a false alarm (e.g., wind blowing leaves) and a real threat (e.g., glass breaking).
• Two-way communication: Greet delivery drivers or scare off intruders without opening the door.

But here are times when turning off audio is a smarter move:

• Privacy zones: If your camera points toward a neighbor’s property or a public sidewalk, audio recording could cross legal boundaries.
• Night recordings: Do you really need to hear crickets chirping at 2 AM? Probably not.
• Shared spaces: In homes with roommates or family, audio might capture private conversations.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure, start by turning off audio temporarily. Test it for a week and see if you miss the feature—or if it actually makes your surveillance experience better.

Step-by-Step Guide to Turning Off Audio

Using the Arlo App (Mobile and Desktop)

The easiest way to disable audio is through the Arlo app. Here’s how:

1. Open the Arlo app on your phone or tablet.
2. Tap the camera you want to adjust.
3. Go to Settings (usually a gear icon).
4. Select Audio Settings.
5. Toggle off Record Audio.

On desktop (via Arlo.com), the steps are nearly identical:

1. Log in to your Arlo account.
2. Click My Devices, then select your camera.
3. Navigate to Audio Settings and disable Record Audio.

Note: Some older Arlo models (like the original Arlo Wire-Free) might not have a dedicated audio toggle. In that case, you’ll need to adjust settings through the base station (more on that later).

Disabling Audio via the Arlo Base Station

If you’re using an Arlo Pro or Pro 2 system with a base station, you can also control audio from the hardware itself:

1. Press the Settings button on the base station.
2. Navigate to Camera Settings using the arrow buttons.
3. Select the camera you want to adjust.
4. Find the Audio option and set it to Off.

This method is handy if your phone is out of reach or the app is acting glitchy. Just keep in mind that changes made here will sync with the app, so you won’t have to repeat the process.

What Happens When You Turn Off Audio?

Disabling audio doesn’t affect video recording—your camera will still capture footage as usual. The only difference is that clips will be silent. Here’s what to expect:

• Existing recordings: Audio is stripped from new clips, but old recordings with sound remain unchanged (unless you delete them).
• Two-way audio: The mic is disabled, but the speaker still works. You can’t hear others, but they can hear you if you speak through the camera.
• Notifications: Motion alerts will still trigger, but you won’t hear ambient sounds in live view.

Real-life example: A friend of mine turned off audio on her Arlo Pro 3 after realizing it was recording her kids’ playtime conversations. She kept the video for security but disabled the mic to protect their privacy. Simple fix, big relief!

Troubleshooting Common Audio Issues

Audio Won’t Turn Off? Here’s Why

Sometimes, the Record Audio toggle seems unresponsive. Before you panic, check these common culprits:

• Firmware updates: Outdated software can cause glitches. Go to Settings > Device Info > Firmware and update if needed.
• App sync issues: Close the Arlo app, restart your phone, and try again.
• Subscription limits: Some Arlo plans restrict audio settings. Check your plan details (e.g., Basic vs. Premier).

If none of these work, try resetting the camera to factory settings (hold the sync button for 10+ seconds). Just note that this will erase all custom settings, so back up any important configurations first.

Partial Audio or Distorted Sound

Even with audio enabled, you might hear crackling, static, or muffled voices. This usually stems from:

• Low battery: Weak power can affect mic performance. Recharge or replace the battery.
• Obstructions: Dust or debris on the mic port. Clean gently with a soft brush.
• Wi-Fi interference: Audio streaming requires a strong connection. Move the camera closer to your router or add an Arlo SmartHub.

Pro tip: Test the mic by recording a short clip and playing it back. If the issue persists, contact Arlo support—they’re usually quick to respond.

Advanced Audio Settings and Customization

Scheduling Audio On/Off Times

What if you only want audio during specific hours? Arlo’s Rules feature lets you automate this:

1. In the Arlo app, go to Settings > Mode > Add Rule.
2. Set conditions (e.g., “From 8 PM to 6 AM, turn off audio”).
3. Save the rule, and the camera will follow your schedule.

This is perfect for nighttime recordings or times when privacy is a top priority. For example, a user in California scheduled their Arlo Ultra to disable audio after 10 PM to comply with state wiretapping laws. Smart move!

Using Geofencing to Control Audio

Geofencing uses your phone’s location to trigger camera settings. Here’s how to tie it to audio:

1. Enable Geofencing in the Arlo app (under Settings > Mode).
2. Create a rule like, “When I leave home, turn off audio.”
3. When you drive away, the camera automatically disables mic recording.

It’s a great way to balance security and privacy. No more worrying about whether you remembered to toggle the setting before leaving the house.

Comparing Arlo Audio Features Across Models

Which Arlo Cameras Support Audio Control?

Not all Arlo cameras offer the same audio flexibility. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Camera Model	Audio Toggle in App?	Two-Way Audio?	Special Notes
Arlo Essential	Yes	Yes	No base station; settings only in app.
Arlo Pro 3/4	Yes	Yes	Supports HDR and color night vision.
Arlo Ultra	Yes	Yes	4K audio; best for high-quality recording.
Original Arlo Wire-Free	No	Yes	Adjust audio via base station only.

If you’re shopping for a new camera and audio control is a priority, go for the Pro or Ultra series. The Essential line is budget-friendly but lacks some advanced settings.

Audio Quality Differences

Higher-end models (like the Ultra) offer clearer audio with noise reduction and wind filtering. Budget models might pick up background noise or have lower volume. If you *do* need audio, invest in a camera with a high-quality mic—otherwise, just turn it off!

Final Thoughts: Balancing Privacy and Security

Deciding whether to keep audio on your Arlo camera isn’t just a technical choice—it’s a personal one. For some, the ability to hear what’s happening is crucial. For others, the privacy trade-off isn’t worth it. The beauty of Arlo’s system is that you have control. Whether you’re disabling audio for legal reasons, reducing noise, or just simplifying your setup, the steps we’ve covered make it easy to customize your experience.

Remember: how to turn off audio on Arlo cameras is just one piece of the puzzle. Explore other settings—like activity zones, notification preferences, and recording schedules—to build a surveillance system that works *for* you, not against you. And if you ever change your mind? The toggle is always there, waiting for you. Happy monitoring!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I turn off audio on Arlo cameras?

Yes, you can turn off audio on Arlo cameras through the Arlo app or web portal. Go to your camera’s settings, select “Audio,” and toggle the microphone off.

How do I disable audio recording on my Arlo camera?

To disable audio recording, open the Arlo app, navigate to your camera’s settings, and disable the microphone under the “Audio” section. This stops audio capture while keeping video active.

Is it possible to mute audio on Arlo cameras temporarily?

Yes, you can temporarily mute audio on Arlo cameras by toggling the microphone off in the app. This is useful for privacy or reducing noise in recordings.

Why would I want to turn off audio on my Arlo camera?

Turning off audio can enhance privacy, comply with local laws, or reduce unnecessary background noise. Some users prefer video-only recording for security purposes.

Can I turn off audio on Arlo cameras in bulk?

Yes, you can disable audio for multiple Arlo cameras at once by selecting each device in the app and turning off the microphone. This saves time for users with multiple cameras.

Does turning off audio affect my Arlo camera’s other features?

No, disabling audio only stops sound recording—video, motion detection, and alerts continue to work normally. Your camera’s core functionality remains unchanged.