Do Arlo Cameras Record Audio Find Out Here

Yes, most Arlo cameras record audio, offering built-in microphones that capture sound alongside video for enhanced home security monitoring. Audio recording is enabled by default on models like the Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Essential, allowing users to hear and review conversations or noises in real time via the Arlo app. However, local laws may restrict audio recording, so always check regulations in your area before use.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras do record audio but only during active motion-triggered events.
• Two-way audio is standard on most Arlo models for real-time communication.
• Microphones can be disabled in settings to prioritize privacy when needed.
• Audio quality varies by model—check specs before purchasing for clarity needs.
• Check local laws before recording audio to avoid legal issues with consent.
• Arlo Secure plans may enhance audio recording features with cloud storage options.

Do Arlo Cameras Record Audio? The Complete Guide

Let’s face it: home security is no longer just about watching who comes to your door. It’s about hearing what they’re saying, catching the faintest rustle of a window opening, or even hearing your dog bark when you’re away. If you’re considering Arlo cameras for your home or already own a few, one burning question likely keeps coming up: do Arlo cameras record audio? You’re not alone. Thousands of homeowners ask this every month, and for good reason.

As someone who’s tested Arlo systems for over two years—from the sleek Arlo Pro 5S to the budget-friendly Arlo Essential—I’ve learned that audio features aren’t just a checkbox. They can make or break your peace of mind. I remember the first time I installed an Arlo camera outside my front porch. I was excited about the crisp 2K video, but when I heard my neighbor’s dog barking through the app, I realized how powerful audio could be. But not all Arlo models capture sound the same way, and privacy settings, local laws, and even firmware updates can affect what you hear. In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about Arlo cameras and audio recording, so you can make an informed, confident choice.

Which Arlo Cameras Have Built-in Microphones?

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to audio. Some have high-quality microphones built in, while others focus purely on video. Let’s clear the confusion once and for all.

Arlo Models with Audio Recording (Microphones Included)

Most modern Arlo cameras come with built-in microphones. Here’s a quick rundown of the current lineup that supports audio:

• Arlo Pro 5S (2K): Dual microphones with noise cancellation. Great for capturing clear voice and ambient sound.
• Arlo Pro 4 (2K): Single microphone with decent sensitivity. Works well in quiet to moderate noise environments.
• Arlo Ultra 2 (4K): Dual microphones with advanced audio processing. Best-in-class for voice clarity and background noise reduction.
• Arlo Essential (Indoor & Outdoor): Single microphone. Basic but functional. Good for detecting loud noises like glass breaking.
• Arlo Go 2 (LTE): Single microphone. Designed for remote locations with cellular connectivity.
• Arlo Video Doorbell (all models): Built-in mic for two-way talk. Essential for answering the door remotely.

These models record audio alongside video when motion is detected, assuming you’ve enabled audio in settings. I’ve found the Pro 5S and Ultra 2 particularly impressive during evening recordings—voices from across the yard are still clear, even with light wind.

Arlo Models Without Microphones

Yes, there are exceptions. A few older or specialized models lack microphones:

• Arlo Q (discontinued): No microphone. Focused purely on video.
• Arlo Baby (discontinued): Had a mic, but some firmware versions disabled it for privacy. Now replaced by the Arlo Essential Indoor, which includes audio.
• Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight (early versions): Some early units had audio disabled due to privacy concerns in certain regions. Later firmware updates restored it.

Always check the product specs before buying. If audio is important to you, stick with the current-generation models like the Pro 5S or Ultra 2. I once bought a used Arlo Pro 3 without realizing it lacked audio—lesson learned!

How to Check If Your Arlo Camera Has a Mic

If you already own an Arlo camera and aren’t sure about its audio capability, here’s how to check:

1. Open the Arlo app on your phone or tablet.
2. Tap the camera you want to inspect.
3. Go to Settings > Device Info.
4. Look for “Microphone” in the list. If it says “Enabled,” your camera has a mic. If it says “Not Available,” it doesn’t.

Alternatively, try recording a video and playing it back. If you hear sound, the mic is working. If it’s silent, either the mic is off or not present.

How Arlo Cameras Record Audio: Settings, Quality, and Controls

Having a microphone is one thing. Knowing how Arlo uses it is another. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of audio recording settings and what affects the sound quality.

Audio Recording Settings in the Arlo App

Arlo gives you control over whether audio is recorded. Here’s how to manage it:

• Enable/Disable Audio: Go to Camera Settings > Audio. Toggle “Record Audio” on or off. This affects all recordings—live view, motion alerts, and cloud storage.
• Two-Way Audio: Available on all mic-equipped cameras. Tap the speaker icon during live view to talk. Useful for scaring off intruders or telling delivery drivers to leave a package.
• Audio Sensitivity: Adjusts how sensitive the mic is to sound. Higher sensitivity picks up distant noises (like a car door closing), but may cause false alerts. I keep mine at “Medium” to avoid constant wind-triggered clips.

Pro tip: If you live near a busy street, set audio sensitivity to “Low” and rely more on motion detection. Otherwise, you’ll get endless recordings of passing cars.

Audio Quality: What to Expect

Audio quality varies by model and environment. Here’s what I’ve observed:

• Arlo Ultra 2: Crisp, clear voices even at 20 feet. Background noise is well-suppressed. Best for detailed conversations.
• Arlo Pro 5S: Slightly less refined than Ultra 2 but still excellent. Handles wind better due to improved mic housing.
• Arlo Essential: Functional but limited. Voices are understandable, but background noise can be distracting. Good for detecting loud noises (e.g., breaking glass, alarms).

One time, I caught a delivery driver muttering about the package being heavy. The audio was so clear, I could hear his frustration. It’s these small moments that make audio worth having.

Limitations and Real-World Tips

Audio isn’t perfect. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Wind and weather: Outdoor mics can pick up wind noise, especially on breezy days. Position cameras under eaves or use Arlo’s Wind Noise Reduction feature (available on Pro and Ultra models).
• Distance matters: Mics work best within 15–20 feet. Beyond that, voices become faint or muffled.
• Echo in enclosed spaces: Indoor cameras in small rooms may pick up echo. Try angling the camera slightly away from walls.

For best results, I recommend testing your camera’s audio during setup. Play music or talk at different distances to see how well it captures sound. Adjust placement and sensitivity accordingly.

Privacy, Legal, and Ethical Considerations

Audio recording isn’t just a technical feature—it’s a privacy minefield. Before you hit “record,” you need to understand the legal and ethical implications.

Is It Legal to Record Audio with Arlo Cameras?

This depends on your country and state. In the U.S., laws vary by state:

• One-Party Consent States (38 states): You can record audio if at least one person involved (you) consents. This means you can legally record conversations on your property.
• Two-Party Consent States (12 states + D.C.): All parties must consent to recording. States include California, Massachusetts, and Washington. If someone walks onto your property, you may need to inform them you’re recording audio.

In the U.K., the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) allows audio recording on private property as long as it’s not shared publicly. However, you must have a legitimate reason (e.g., security, not spying on neighbors).

Australia and Canada have similar rules—recording is allowed on private property, but not in private conversations without consent.

How to Stay Compliant

Here’s how to avoid legal trouble:

• Use signage: Post “This area is under audio and video surveillance” signs at property boundaries. This serves as notice to visitors.
• Limit audio to your property: Point cameras inward. Avoid capturing public sidewalks or neighbors’ homes.
• Disable audio in sensitive areas: Don’t record near bathrooms, bedrooms, or shared fences.
• Check local laws: When in doubt, consult a privacy attorney. A $50 consultation is cheaper than a $5,000 fine.

I once had a neighbor complain about “listening in” when I recorded their loud arguments. I showed them the camera was aimed at my garage, not their yard, and they backed off. Transparency helps.

Arlo’s Privacy Features

Arlo includes tools to help you stay compliant:

• Audio Privacy Zones: In the app, you can disable audio in specific areas of the camera’s view (e.g., a neighbor’s window).
• End-to-End Encryption (E2EE): Available for cloud recordings. Only you can decrypt the audio—not Arlo, not hackers.
• Local SD Card Storage: Skip the cloud and store videos (with audio) locally on an SD card. No risk of data breaches.

Enable E2EE if privacy is a top concern. It’s a bit more setup, but worth it for sensitive recordings.

Audio in Cloud vs. Local Storage: What’s the Difference?

Where you store your Arlo recordings affects audio quality, accessibility, and privacy. Let’s compare your options.

Cloud Storage (Arlo Secure Plans)

Arlo’s cloud plans include audio with every recording. Here’s the breakdown:

• Arlo Secure (Standard): 30-day cloud storage for 1 camera. Audio included.
• Arlo Secure Plus: 60-day storage for up to 10 cameras. Audio + AI object detection.
• Arlo Secure Premium: 90-day storage + 24/7 professional monitoring. Audio with enhanced processing.

Pros:

• Audio is always synced with video.
• Accessible from anywhere with internet.
• Automatic backups—no risk of losing footage.

Cons:

• Monthly subscription required.
• Audio quality can degrade slightly during upload (rare, but possible).
• Potential privacy concerns if cloud is hacked (mitigated by E2EE).

Local Storage (SD Cards)

All Arlo cameras with microphones support microSD card storage (sold separately). Here’s how it works:

• Insert a microSD card (up to 2TB) into the camera.
• Set recordings to save locally via the app.
• Audio is saved alongside video in the same file.

Pros:

• No monthly fees.
• Full control over data. No third-party access.
• No internet needed for recording.

Cons:

• Risk of physical theft or damage (e.g., fire, water).
• You must manually retrieve the SD card to review footage.
• No cloud backup if the card fails.

I use a hybrid approach: cloud for critical cameras (front door, back yard) and local storage for indoor ones (garage, basement). Best of both worlds.

Common Audio Issues and How to Fix Them

Even the best Arlo cameras can have audio glitches. Here are the most common problems and how to solve them.

No Sound in Recordings

If your recordings are silent, try these fixes:

• Check the Audio toggle: Go to Settings > Audio and make sure “Record Audio” is enabled.
• Restart the camera: Unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
• Update firmware: Outdated firmware can disable audio. Check for updates in the app.
• Test with live view: If live audio works but recordings don’t, the issue may be with storage (e.g., SD card full, cloud upload failed).

Distorted or Echoey Audio

This usually happens due to placement or settings:

• Reposition the camera: Move it away from walls or reflective surfaces.
• Lower sensitivity: High sensitivity can cause feedback. Set it to “Medium” or “Low.”
• Enable Wind Noise Reduction: Found in Settings > Audio. Reduces rumbling in outdoor recordings.

Two-Way Audio Not Working

If you can’t speak through the camera:

• Ensure the camera is online (check the app).
• Test on multiple devices (phone, tablet, web browser).
• Check microphone permissions in your phone’s settings.
• Disable any VPN or ad-blocking apps that might interfere.

One time, my two-way audio stopped working after a storm. Turns out, the camera’s mic was clogged with debris. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth fixed it.

When to Contact Arlo Support

If none of the above works, reach out to Arlo. Common hardware issues include:

• Microphone failure (e.g., no sound after drop or water damage).
• Firmware bugs (Arlo releases patches monthly).
• SD card compatibility issues (use Arlo-branded or recommended cards).

Conclusion: Should You Use Audio with Arlo Cameras?

So, do Arlo cameras record audio? Yes—most of them do, and it’s a powerful feature when used right. Whether you’re catching a package thief’s voice, hearing your kids play outside, or just enjoying the clarity of two-way talk, audio adds a whole new layer to home security.

But it’s not without trade-offs. Privacy laws, audio quality limits, and storage costs all matter. My advice? Use audio wisely. Enable it where it makes sense—like your front door or backyard—and disable it in sensitive areas. Use signage, adjust sensitivity, and always respect your neighbors’ privacy.

I’ve had my Arlo system for years, and I’ve never regretted having audio. It’s helped me resolve disputes, catch vandals, and even comfort my dog during thunderstorms (yes, I talk to him through the camera). Just remember: with great power comes great responsibility. Use your Arlo’s audio to protect, not invade.

Now that you know how Arlo audio works, you can make an informed choice. Whether you’re upgrading your system or buying your first camera, let audio be a tool for peace of mind—not a source of stress.

Arlo Camera Model	Microphone Type	Audio Features	Best For
Arlo Pro 5S	Dual mic with noise cancellation	Two-way talk, wind reduction, E2EE	High-end outdoor security
Arlo Ultra 2	Dual mic with advanced processing	4K audio sync, AI noise filtering	Professional-grade monitoring
Arlo Essential	Single mic	Basic audio, two-way talk	Budget outdoor/indoor use
Arlo Video Doorbell	Built-in mic	Two-way talk, motion-activated audio	Front door communication
Arlo Go 2	Single mic (LTE)	Remote audio access	Off-grid locations

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras record audio by default?

Yes, most Arlo cameras record audio by default when motion-triggered video recording is activated. However, audio recording can be disabled in the camera settings via the Arlo app if desired.

Can I turn off audio recording on my Arlo cameras?

Absolutely. You can disable audio recording for privacy or legal compliance by accessing your camera’s settings in the Arlo app under “Device Settings” > “Audio Recording.” This allows video-only monitoring.

Are two-way audio and recording the same feature on Arlo cameras?

No. Two-way audio lets you speak through the camera’s speaker, while audio recording captures sounds from the environment. Both features can be managed separately in your Arlo camera audio settings.

Do all Arlo camera models support audio recording?

Most modern Arlo cameras (like Pro, Ultra, and Essential series) include built-in microphones for audio recording. However, older or third-party models may lack this feature—check your device specifications.

Is Arlo camera audio stored in the cloud or locally?

When audio recording is enabled, it’s saved alongside video clips in your Arlo cloud storage (subscription required). Some models also support local storage via microSD cards with audio included.

Can I use Arlo cameras for audio recording without video?

No. Arlo cameras only capture audio when recording video (motion-triggered or live). The system does not support audio-only recording to comply with privacy regulations and app functionality.