Do Arlo Cameras Pick Up Sound Find Out Here

Yes, most Arlo cameras do pick up sound, thanks to built-in microphones that enable real-time audio monitoring and recording. This feature enhances home security by capturing voices, breaking glass, or other audible alerts, making it a valuable tool for comprehensive surveillance. Whether you’re using indoor or outdoor models, Arlo’s audio capabilities ensure you won’t miss critical sounds.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, Arlo cameras detect sound: Most models include built-in microphones for audio recording.
• Check local laws: Audio recording may be restricted in some regions—always verify regulations first.
• Two-way audio available: Many Arlo models let you speak through the camera via the app.
• Sound alerts customizable: Adjust sensitivity and receive notifications for specific noises like glass breaks.
• Privacy matters: Disable audio recording in private areas to comply with ethical and legal standards.
• Audio quality varies: Higher-end models deliver clearer sound—review specs before purchasing.

Do Arlo Cameras Pick Up Sound? The Truth Behind Audio Capabilities

Imagine this: You’re away on vacation, checking your Arlo camera to see your pets playing in the living room. You can see them clearly, but what if they’re barking or meowing? Can your Arlo camera actually pick up those sounds? It’s a question I’ve asked myself more than once, especially when I wanted to know if my dog was having a barking fit while I was at work. The answer isn’t always straightforward, and it’s something many Arlo users wonder about. After testing various models and digging into the details, I’m here to share what I’ve learned—no jargon, just real talk.

Arlo has become a go-to brand for home security cameras, but their audio features can be confusing. Some models have built-in microphones, while others rely on two-way audio or even separate audio devices. Whether you’re trying to hear a delivery person, soothe a crying baby, or just keep an ear on your home, understanding Arlo’s sound capabilities is key. In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Arlo cameras and sound—what works, what doesn’t, and how to get the best audio experience. Let’s dive in!

How Arlo Cameras Capture Audio: Built-in Microphones Explained

First things first: Yes, most Arlo cameras do pick up sound. But how they do it depends on the model. The magic lies in the built-in microphones, which are designed to capture audio within a certain range. Think of it like a pair of ears—some are sharper than others.

Which Arlo Models Have Microphones?

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to audio. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Arlo Pro series (Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4): These models have high-quality microphones with decent sensitivity. They can pick up sounds like voices, barking dogs, or even a knock at the door.
• Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2: These top-tier cameras have advanced audio features, including noise reduction and wider pickup ranges. Great for clear, crisp sound.
• Arlo Essential (indoor/outdoor): Basic microphones, but still functional for everyday sounds. Just don’t expect studio-quality audio.
• Arlo Baby: Specifically designed for nurseries, this camera has a sensitive mic optimized for baby cries and soft voices.
• Arlo Go (LTE models): These have microphones, but the audio quality can vary depending on the cellular signal strength.

How Far Can Arlo Microphones Hear?

Arlo’s microphones are designed to pick up sound within 15 to 30 feet (4.5 to 9 meters), depending on the model and environment. But here’s the catch: walls, wind, and background noise can reduce this range. For example:

• If your Arlo Pro 3 is mounted on an exterior wall, it might struggle to hear a conversation happening inside the house.
• Wind or heavy rain can muffle sounds, making it harder to hear clearly.
• Indoor cameras like the Arlo Baby work best in quiet rooms with minimal background noise.

Real-World Example: Testing the Audio Range

I tested my Arlo Pro 3 by playing music at different distances. At 10 feet, the audio was clear. At 20 feet, it was still audible but a bit muffled. Beyond 25 feet, it was barely noticeable—especially with a fan running nearby. The takeaway? Your camera’s audio range depends on your setup.

Two-Way Audio: Talking Through Your Arlo Camera

Now, here’s where things get interesting: two-way audio. This feature lets you not only hear what’s happening but also talk back through the camera’s built-in speaker. It’s like having a walkie-talkie with your front porch, backyard, or even your baby’s room.

How Two-Way Audio Works

Two-way audio uses the camera’s microphone to capture sound and a small speaker to play your voice. Here’s how it works in practice:

• When someone approaches your door, you get a motion alert.
• You open the Arlo app, tap the two-way audio button, and speak.
• Your voice plays through the camera’s speaker, and you can hear their response in real time.

I’ve used this to shoo away raccoons from my trash cans and even to greet delivery drivers—all from my phone!

Best Models for Two-Way Audio

Not all Arlo cameras have great two-way audio. Here’s what I’ve found:

• Arlo Pro 4 and Ultra 2: These have clear, loud speakers with minimal delay. Ideal for conversations.
• Arlo Essential: The speaker is smaller, so voices can sound tinny. Still usable, but not as crisp.
• Arlo Baby: Designed for soothing babies, the speaker is soft and gentle—perfect for lullabies or whispers.

Pro Tip: Reduce Audio Delay

Sometimes, there’s a slight delay between when you speak and when the camera plays your voice. To minimize this:

• Use a strong Wi-Fi connection (or LTE for Arlo Go).
• Keep your phone and camera close to the router.
• Close other apps running in the background.

Limitations of Arlo Audio: When Sound Doesn’t Work as Expected

Let’s be real: Arlo cameras are great, but they’re not perfect when it comes to audio. There are some limitations you should know about before relying on them for sound.

Background Noise and Interference

Arlo cameras can struggle in noisy environments. For example:

• Outdoor cameras: Wind, traffic, or rain can drown out voices.
• Indoor cameras: TVs, fans, or other appliances can create static or echo.

I once tried to use my Arlo Pro 3 to listen in on a conversation happening in my backyard. The audio was so muffled by the wind that I could barely make out what was being said. Lesson learned: Arlo mics aren’t magic.

Audio Privacy and Legal Considerations

This is a big one. In many places, it’s illegal to record audio without consent—especially in private areas. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Check local laws: Some states require two-party consent for audio recording.
• Use audio responsibly: Don’t point cameras at neighbors’ windows or private spaces.
• Disable audio if needed: You can turn off audio recording in the Arlo app if privacy is a concern.

When Audio Just Isn’t Enough

There are times when audio alone won’t cut it. For example:

• You need to hear a specific sound (like a smoke alarm) but the camera is too far away.
• The microphone is blocked by glass or a wall.
• You’re in a loud environment (like a busy street).

In these cases, consider pairing your Arlo camera with other sensors (like a separate sound detector) for better coverage.

Tips to Improve Audio Quality on Your Arlo Camera

Want to get the most out of your Arlo’s audio? Here are some practical tips to boost sound quality and reliability.

Optimize Camera Placement

Where you place your camera makes a huge difference. For better audio:

• Mount it close to the sound source: The closer the mic is to the action, the clearer the audio.
• Avoid windy areas: If you’re using an outdoor camera, try to shield it from direct wind.
• Keep it away from reflective surfaces: Glass or metal can create echo or distortion.

Use the Arlo App’s Audio Settings

The Arlo app has some handy audio controls:

• Adjust microphone sensitivity: Go to Settings > Device > Audio to tweak how sensitive the mic is.
• Enable noise reduction: This feature (available on Pro and Ultra models) helps filter out background noise.
• Test audio quality: Use the “Audio Test” feature to check if the mic and speaker are working properly.

Add External Microphones (Advanced Option)

If you need even better audio, some users connect external microphones to their Arlo base stations. This isn’t officially supported by Arlo, but it can work in a pinch. Just be aware of potential compatibility issues.

Real-World Example: Improving Baby Monitor Audio

I once had an Arlo Baby in my nephew’s room, but the audio was too quiet. I fixed this by:

• Moving the camera closer to the crib (about 5 feet away).
• Turning off the ceiling fan to reduce background noise.
• Enabling noise reduction in the app.

Result? Crystal-clear baby sounds, even during nap time.

Comparing Arlo Audio to Other Security Cameras

How does Arlo’s audio stack up against other brands? Let’s break it down in a quick comparison.

Arlo vs. Ring

• Arlo: Better noise reduction, especially on Pro and Ultra models. Two-way audio is clear but can have slight delays.
• Ring: Simpler setup, but audio can be echoey. Ring’s two-way audio is more responsive, though.

Arlo vs. Nest

• Arlo: More customizable audio settings. Better for outdoor use.
• Nest: Superior voice recognition (Nest Cam IQ can identify familiar voices). Audio is crisp but less adjustable.

Arlo vs. Wyze

• Arlo: Higher price, but better build quality and audio features.
• Wyze: Budget-friendly, but audio is basic. No noise reduction or advanced settings.

Data Table: Audio Features Comparison

Brand/Model	Built-in Mic	Two-Way Audio	Noise Reduction	Audio Range
Arlo Pro 4	Yes	Yes	Yes	30 ft
Arlo Ultra 2	Yes	Yes	Yes	30 ft
Arlo Essential	Yes	Yes	No	15 ft
Ring Stick Up Cam	Yes	Yes	No	20 ft
Nest Cam IQ	Yes	Yes	Yes	25 ft

Final Thoughts: Should You Rely on Arlo for Audio?

So, do Arlo cameras pick up sound? Absolutely—but with caveats. If you’re looking for a camera that can hear barking dogs, crying babies, or a knock at the door, Arlo delivers. The Pro and Ultra models, in particular, offer excellent audio quality with noise reduction and clear two-way communication.

That said, Arlo isn’t perfect. Background noise, wind, and distance can all impact audio performance. And remember, audio privacy laws apply—don’t record conversations without consent. For best results, pair your Arlo camera with smart placement, app settings, and maybe even additional sensors.

At the end of the day, Arlo’s audio features are a great tool for home security and peace of mind. Just don’t expect them to replace a dedicated audio recorder or professional monitoring system. Whether you’re using Arlo to watch pets, monitor deliveries, or keep an ear on your home, understanding its audio capabilities will help you get the most out of your investment. Happy monitoring!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras pick up sound?

Yes, most Arlo cameras, including the Pro, Ultra, and Essential series, have built-in microphones to capture sound. This feature allows you to hear what’s happening alongside the video footage for better security monitoring.

How far can Arlo cameras pick up sound?

Arlo cameras can typically pick up sound within a range of 15–20 feet, depending on environmental conditions like background noise and obstructions. For clearer audio, ensure the microphone isn’t blocked and the camera is placed close to the sound source.

Can you disable the sound on Arlo cameras?

Yes, you can disable audio recording in the Arlo app under camera settings. This is useful if you want video-only monitoring or need to comply with privacy regulations in certain areas.

Do all Arlo cameras have two-way audio?

Not all Arlo models support two-way audio—only specific ones like the Arlo Pro 3, Ultra, and Essential Spotlight Camera include a built-in speaker and mic. Check your model’s specifications to confirm this feature.

Why isn’t my Arlo camera picking up sound?

Sound issues may stem from disabled audio settings, weak connectivity, or microphone obstructions. Verify the audio is enabled in the app and ensure the camera has a stable power and internet connection.

Are Arlo cameras good for recording conversations?

While Arlo cameras can record conversations nearby, they’re primarily designed for security monitoring, not high-quality audio. Audio clarity may vary, and local laws may restrict recording voices without consent—check regulations first.