Do Arlo Cameras Have SD Card Storage Options Explained

Most Arlo cameras do not include built-in SD card storage, relying instead on cloud or local base station storage for video recordings. However, select models like the Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra support microSD card storage via an Arlo SmartHub, offering a flexible, subscription-free backup option for users seeking greater control over their footage.

Key Takeaways

• Most Arlo cameras lack built-in SD card slots—cloud or hub storage is standard.
• Arlo Pro 4/5 support microSD via base station—enables local backup and 24/7 recording.
• Check model specs before buying—not all Arlo devices offer expandable storage.
• Local storage avoids subscription fees—ideal for budget-conscious users with compatible setups.
• SD cards require Arlo SmartHub—standalone cameras can’t use memory cards directly.

Do Arlo Cameras Have SD Card Storage Options? Let’s Break It Down

Imagine this: you’re on vacation, sipping a piña colada on a beach, when your phone pings with a notification. Your Arlo camera detected motion. You open the app, expecting to see the culprit—maybe a raccoon raiding the trash—only to find the video is gone. Vanished. Poof. No playback, no clip, nothing. What happened? If you’ve ever felt that sinking frustration, you’re not alone. Many Arlo users wonder: do Arlo cameras have SD card storage options? Can you skip the subscription and save clips locally?

The short answer is yes—and no. It’s a bit like ordering a pizza: some models come with extra toppings (like SD card slots), while others are strictly delivery-only (cloud-only). In this guide, we’ll dive deep into which Arlo cameras support SD cards, how to use them, and whether local storage is worth the trade-offs. Whether you’re a privacy hawk, a budget-conscious shopper, or just tired of monthly fees, we’ll help you decide what’s right for your home.

Which Arlo Cameras Support SD Card Storage? (A Detailed Breakdown)

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to local storage. Let’s start with the good news: some models let you pop in a microSD card and skip the cloud entirely. But first, let’s clarify the key players.

Cameras with Built-in SD Card Slots

These models have a dedicated microSD card slot on the device itself:

• Arlo Pro 3: Supports up to 2TB (yes, terabytes) with a microSDXC card. This is a game-changer for heavy users.
• Arlo Pro 4: Same as Pro 3—2TB microSDXC support. Great for 4K video hoarders.
• Arlo Ultra: The premium flagship. Also supports 2TB microSDXC. Bonus: it records in 4K HDR, so you’ll need that storage space.
• Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell: A rare doorbell with local storage! Uses microSD cards up to 2TB.

Pro tip: If you own one of these, you’re in luck. Just grab a high-endurance microSD card (like Samsung Pro Endurance) and you’re set. These cards are built to handle constant video writes, which regular SD cards can’t do for long.

Cameras Without SD Card Slots (Cloud-Only)

These models rely solely on cloud storage:

• Arlo Pro 2: No SD slot. Requires Arlo Smart subscription for video playback.
• Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight: No onboard storage. Cloud-only, even though it’s part of the Pro 3 line.
• Arlo Essential Wireless Doorbell: No local storage option. Cloud clips only.
• Arlo Go (LTE): Uses a SIM card, not SD. Stores clips on the cloud via LTE.

Real talk: If you have one of these, you’ll need a subscription for full functionality. But don’t panic—we’ll cover workarounds later.

The Arlo SmartHub: A Hidden Gem for Local Storage

Here’s where things get interesting. Some Arlo cameras (like the Arlo Pro 3 and Ultra) can connect to the Arlo SmartHub, a small device that acts as a local storage hub. Plug a USB drive into the SmartHub, and your cameras can save clips there, even if they don’t have SD slots themselves. Think of it as a mini-NAS for your security system.

Example: Let’s say you have an Arlo Pro 3 (which has an SD slot) and an Arlo Pro 2 (no SD slot). Connect both to a SmartHub with a 1TB USB drive. The Pro 3 can save to its SD card and the hub, while the Pro 2 uses the hub for local storage. It’s not perfect, but it’s a clever hybrid solution.

How to Set Up SD Card Storage on Arlo Cameras (Step-by-Step)

Setting up local storage isn’t rocket science, but there are a few gotchas. Let’s walk through the process for both SD cards and SmartHubs.

Using a microSD Card: The Camera Method

1. Buy the right card: Use a microSDXC card (64GB–2TB) rated for high endurance. Brands like Samsung Pro Endurance or SanDisk High Endurance are ideal. Regular SD cards will fail fast from constant writing.
2. Format the card: Insert the card into your camera, then open the Arlo app. Go to Device Settings > Storage > Format SD Card. This erases everything and sets up Arlo’s file system.
3. Enable local recording: In the app, toggle Record to SD Card to “On.” You can choose to record continuously or only when motion is detected.
4. Manage clips: Access saved videos in the app under Library > Local Storage. You can download clips to your phone or delete them to free space.

Tip: Set up motion-only recording to save space. Continuous recording eats storage fast—a 64GB card lasts just 2–3 days with 24/7 4K video.

Using the Arlo SmartHub: The Hub Method

1. Connect the hub: Plug the SmartHub into your router via Ethernet. Wait for the LED to turn solid blue.
2. Add a USB drive: Use a USB 3.0 drive (up to 2TB). Format it in the Arlo app: SmartHub > Storage > Format USB.
3. Pair cameras: In the app, go to Devices > Add Device and follow prompts to connect cameras to the hub.
4. Enable hub recording: For each camera, toggle Record to SmartHub to “On.”

Gotcha: The SmartHub only stores clips from cameras connected to it. If a camera is linked directly to Wi-Fi (not the hub), it can’t use the USB drive.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• “SD Card Not Detected”: Remove the card, clean the contacts with a dry cloth, and reinsert. If it still fails, format it again.
• Corrupted clips: Use a high-endurance card. Cheap cards often corrupt after weeks of use.
• SmartHub offline: Restart the hub and check Ethernet connections. Ensure your router isn’t blocking the hub’s IP.

SD Card vs. Cloud Storage: The Pros and Cons

Choosing between SD cards and cloud storage isn’t just about cost—it’s about privacy, reliability, and convenience. Let’s compare both.

SD Card Storage: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

The Good:

• No subscription fees: One-time cost for the card. Save $3–$10/month on cloud plans.
• Privacy control: Footage stays on your property. No third-party access (unless you share it).
• Offline access: View clips even if your internet goes down.
• No data caps: Record 24/7 without worrying about cloud storage limits.

The Bad:

• Physical theft risk: A thief could steal the camera and the SD card, erasing evidence.
• Card failure: SD cards degrade over time. Expect to replace them every 2–3 years.
• No AI features: Without cloud, you lose person/vehicle detection, activity zones, and smart alerts (unless your camera has onboard AI).

The Ugly:

• Manual management: You’ll need to delete old clips regularly. Forgetting can cause the camera to stop recording.

Cloud Storage: The Trade-Offs

The Good:

• AI-powered alerts: Get notifications for people, packages, or vehicles (with an Arlo Smart subscription).
• Remote access: View clips from anywhere, even if your home internet is down.
• Redundancy: Clips are backed up to Arlo’s servers. If your camera breaks, footage survives.
• Easy sharing: Send clips to police or neighbors with a few taps.

The Bad:

• Ongoing costs: Subscriptions range from $3/month (per camera) to $15/month (unlimited cameras).
• Privacy concerns: Data is stored on third-party servers. While Arlo uses encryption, it’s not 100% immune to breaches.
• Internet dependency: No cloud without Wi-Fi. A power outage or ISP issue could disrupt recording.

Real-world example: Sarah, a mom in Texas, uses an Arlo Pro 4 with a 512GB SD card. She saves $60/year by avoiding cloud fees. But she misses smart alerts—her camera can’t tell a squirrel from a burglar. Meanwhile, James in California pays $10/month for cloud storage. He gets instant alerts when his kids arrive home, but worries about data privacy.

Hybrid Solutions: Combining SD Cards + Cloud (Best of Both Worlds)

Why choose? Many users opt for a hybrid approach—using SD cards and cloud storage. Here’s how to get the best of both.

Dual Recording: SD + Cloud

Most Arlo cameras with SD slots let you record to both local and cloud storage simultaneously. This means:

• You keep a backup on the SD card (for privacy and offline access).
• Cloud clips are available remotely and include AI features.
• If the SD card fails, cloud clips are still safe.

Setup: In the Arlo app, enable Record to SD Card and subscribe to Arlo Smart. Your camera will save clips to both locations.

Cost tip: Use a smaller SD card (128GB) for daily clips and rely on cloud for critical events. This cuts storage costs while keeping key footage safe.

SmartHub + SD Card: The Ultimate Combo

Pair a SmartHub with USB storage and an SD card for redundancy:

1. Camera → SD card (for quick access).
2. Camera → SmartHub → USB drive (for long-term backup).
3. Camera → Cloud (for remote alerts and AI).

Why it works: If the SD card is stolen, the USB drive and cloud clips survive. If the hub fails, the SD card still has the footage. It’s overkill for most, but perfect for high-risk areas (like a detached garage).

Workarounds for Cloud-Only Cameras

No SD slot? No problem. Try these hacks:

• Use a SmartHub: As mentioned earlier, the hub can store clips from cloud-only cameras via USB.
• Third-party apps: Tools like Arlo2SD (unofficial) let you download cloud clips to your phone or computer. Not ideal for 24/7 recording, but great for saving key events.
• Local NVR: Advanced users can set up a Network Video Recorder (NVR) to capture RTSP streams from Arlo cameras. Requires technical know-how, but eliminates cloud dependency.

SD Card Storage: Is It Right for You?

Let’s be honest: SD card storage isn’t for everyone. Here’s how to decide.

When to Choose SD Cards

You’ll love local storage if you:

• Hate recurring fees and want to avoid subscriptions.
• Live in an area with spotty internet and need offline access.
• Prioritize privacy and don’t trust cloud storage.
• Have a camera in a low-traffic area (like a backyard), where 24/7 recording is manageable.

Example: Tom, a retiree in rural Maine, uses an Arlo Essential Doorbell with a 256GB SD card. His internet is unreliable, and he’s wary of cloud data. He checks clips weekly and deletes old ones manually. “It’s simple, and I’m in control,” he says.

When to Stick with Cloud (or Hybrid)

Cloud or hybrid is better if you:

• Want smart alerts (e.g., “Person detected at the front door”).
• Travel often and need remote access to clips.
• Have multiple cameras and want centralized management.
• Worry about theft—cloud clips survive camera destruction.

Example: Priya, a nurse, uses an Arlo Ultra with a 1TB SD card and a cloud subscription. She gets AI alerts when her kids arrive home, and the SD card ensures footage is always available—even if the internet drops during a storm.

Data Table: Arlo Camera Storage Options at a Glance

Model	SD Card Slot?	SmartHub Compatible?	Max Local Storage	Cloud Required?
Arlo Pro 3	Yes	Yes	2TB (microSDXC)	No (but recommended)
Arlo Pro 4	Yes	Yes	2TB (microSDXC)	No (but recommended)
Arlo Ultra	Yes	Yes	2TB (microSDXC)	No (but recommended)
Arlo Essential Doorbell (Wired)	Yes	No	2TB (microSDXC)	No
Arlo Pro 2	No	Yes (via SmartHub)	2TB (USB drive)	Yes
Arlo Go (LTE)	No	No	N/A	Yes

So, do Arlo cameras have SD card storage options? Absolutely—but it depends on your model. For privacy-focused users, budget shoppers, or those with unreliable internet, SD cards are a solid choice. But if you crave smart alerts, remote access, and redundancy, cloud (or hybrid) is worth the subscription. The key is matching your camera’s capabilities to your lifestyle. Whether you go local, cloud, or both, Arlo gives you options. Now go forth, set up your storage, and rest easy knowing your home is covered—no piña colada interruptions required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras have SD card slots for local storage?

Most Arlo cameras do not include built-in SD card slots for local storage, as they primarily rely on cloud or base station storage. However, select models like the Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Ultra support local storage via a USB drive connected to the Arlo SmartHub or base station.

Which Arlo cameras support SD card or USB storage?

While no Arlo cameras have direct SD card slots, the Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Essential Wired models support local storage via USB drives (FAT32 format) when paired with an Arlo SmartHub or base station. This provides a backup option alongside cloud storage.

Can I use an SD card with Arlo for 24/7 recording?

Arlo doesn’t support direct SD card recording for continuous 24/7 video capture. For local 24/7 recording, you’ll need an Arlo SmartHub with a connected USB drive (minimum 16GB) and a compatible camera like the Pro 3 or Ultra.

Why doesn’t Arlo offer built-in SD card storage?

Arlo prioritizes encrypted cloud storage and AI-powered event detection, which requires constant internet connectivity. Local storage via SmartHub/USB allows hybrid backup without compromising their cloud-based security and smart features.

How do I set up local storage with my Arlo camera?

To use local storage, connect a USB drive to your Arlo SmartHub/base station, format it to FAT32, and enable “Local Backup” in the Arlo app. This works with supported cameras like the Pro 3, Ultra, or Essential series.

Is an SD card or USB drive better for Arlo storage?

For Arlo systems, USB drives (connected to a SmartHub) are the recommended local storage solution, as they offer larger capacity (up to 2TB) and faster transfer speeds than SD cards. Cloud storage remains ideal for remote access and smart alerts.