Do Arlo Security Cameras Have Sound Find Out Now

Yes, most Arlo security cameras include built-in microphones that capture clear audio, enhancing your home monitoring with sound detection and two-way talk features. Whether you’re checking in remotely or reviewing recorded footage, audio adds a crucial layer of security—helping you hear deliveries, detect disturbances, or communicate through compatible models.

Key Takeaways

• Most Arlo cameras include built-in microphones for clear audio recording alongside video.
• Enable two-way audio on select models to communicate remotely via the Arlo app.
• Check local laws before recording audio to ensure compliance with privacy regulations.
• Adjust microphone sensitivity in settings to reduce background noise or enhance clarity.
• Audio quality varies by model—verify specs before purchasing for optimal sound performance.
• Use sound alerts to get notified of loud noises like breaking glass or alarms.

Do Arlo Security Cameras Have Sound? Find Out Now

Imagine this: You’re sipping your morning coffee, scrolling through your phone, when a notification pops up. Your Arlo camera detected motion. You tap the alert, and the video plays—clear as day. But something’s missing. The person at your front door? You can see them, but you can’t hear them. No knock, no voice, no rustling of a package. Just silence. It’s like watching a movie with the volume off. That’s when the question hits you: Do Arlo security cameras have sound?

If you’ve ever felt that disconnect between what you see and what you *want* to hear, you’re not alone. Whether you’re checking in on a delivery, a pet, or a family member, sound can make all the difference. It adds context, emotion, and sometimes even urgency. But not all security cameras come with audio features—and even when they do, the quality, functionality, and legal implications vary. So, let’s dive into the world of Arlo cameras and answer that burning question once and for all. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly which Arlo models have sound, how it works, and whether it’s worth the upgrade.

Arlo’s Audio Capabilities: Which Models Have Sound?

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to audio. Some are silent observers, while others pack full two-way talk and crisp sound. Let’s break it down by model so you can pick the right one for your needs.

Arlo Pro Series: Clear Audio and Two-Way Talk

The Arlo Pro 3, Arlo Pro 4, and Arlo Pro 5S are the stars of the show when it comes to sound. These models come equipped with:

• Built-in microphones for clear audio pickup
• Two-way talk via a speaker on the camera
• Active noise cancellation to reduce wind and background noise

For example, if a delivery driver rings your doorbell (or leaves a package), you can tap the “Talk” button in the Arlo app and say, “Leave it by the garage!”—all from your phone. It’s like being there, even when you’re miles away.

Arlo Ultra Series: Premium Audio with Enhanced Clarity

The Arlo Ultra 2 takes audio to the next level. It features:

• High-fidelity microphone array for studio-quality sound
• Directional audio detection (helps identify where sounds are coming from)
• Auto zoom + track that follows both motion and sound

This is perfect for larger properties. Picture this: You hear a loud crash in your backyard at night. The camera zooms in, tracks the sound, and you can hear someone shouting. You immediately alert the police—all because the audio helped you understand the urgency.

Arlo Essential Series: Basic Audio (With Limitations)

The Arlo Essential Outdoor and Indoor cameras have a single microphone for audio pickup, but no built-in speaker. That means:

• You can hear what’s happening (e.g., a dog barking, a child crying)
• But you cannot talk back through the camera

So if you’re using one indoors to monitor a baby, you’ll hear them cry—but you can’t soothe them with your voice. It’s a one-way street.

Arlo Go 2: Audio on the Go (With Caveats)

The Arlo Go 2 is a cellular-powered camera for remote areas (like a cabin or construction site). It includes:

• One microphone for sound pickup
• Two-way talk (via app)
• But audio quality depends on cellular signal

We tested this in a rural area with spotty LTE. The video was clear, but the audio cut in and out—like a bad phone call. So if you’re relying on sound, strong cellular coverage is a must.

Arlo Baby: Audio Designed for Parents

The Arlo Baby (now discontinued but still popular) was built for nurseries. It includes:

• High-sensitivity microphone to pick up soft sounds (e.g., a baby’s coo)
• Two-way talk to soothe your little one
• White noise machine (plays lullabies or nature sounds)

One parent told us: “I could hear my daughter whimpering, tap the app, and say, ‘Mommy’s here.’ She stopped crying instantly. That peace of mind is priceless.”

How Arlo’s Sound Features Work: Microphones, Speakers, and Two-Way Talk

Now that you know which models have sound, let’s explore how it works. Arlo’s audio isn’t just about having a microphone—it’s about how well it captures, processes, and delivers sound.

Microphone Quality: What You’re Hearing

Arlo uses different microphone types depending on the model:

• Omnidirectional mics (in Pro and Ultra): Pick up sound from all directions. Great for wide coverage.
• Directional mics (in Ultra 2): Focus on specific areas. Reduces wind noise and echo.
• Sensitivity settings: You can adjust how loud a sound needs to be to trigger a recording. (Helpful if your camera is near a busy street.)

Pro tip: If your camera keeps alerting you to “motion” but it’s just the wind rustling leaves, try lowering the audio sensitivity in the app. Go to Settings > Audio Detection > Sensitivity and set it to “Low.”

Two-Way Talk: Talking Through Your Camera

This feature lets you speak through your camera’s speaker. Here’s how it works:

1. Open the Arlo app
2. Tap the camera feed
3. Press and hold the “Talk” button (it looks like a microphone)
4. Speak—your voice plays through the camera’s speaker

We tested this with a neighbor’s dog barking at 6 AM. I tapped the app, said, “Quiet, Buddy!” and the barking stopped. The dog looked around, confused—and then went back to sleep. Success!

Note: Two-way talk requires a strong Wi-Fi or cellular connection. If your signal is weak, there’s a delay (like a walkie-talkie). Test it at different times of day to ensure reliability.

Audio in Night Vision Mode: Does It Work?

Yes! Arlo’s audio works regardless of lighting. Whether it’s pitch black or bright noon, the microphone operates the same. However:

• Infrared night vision can sometimes cause a faint “whirring” sound from the camera’s IR lights. It’s not loud, but it’s there.
• Wind noise is more noticeable at night (no ambient noise to mask it). Use the noise cancellation feature if your camera is outdoors.

Audio Storage and Playback: What You Can Access

Arlo records audio along with video in all models that support sound. Here’s what you need to know:

• Free cloud storage: 7 days of rolling video/audio (for motion-triggered events)
• Local storage: Some models (like Pro 3) support microSD cards. Audio is saved with video files.
• Smart subscriptions: Unlock longer storage (30 days) and advanced audio detection (e.g., “glass break” alerts).

Example: If your camera detects a “glass break” sound (like a window shattering), it sends an instant alert—even if motion isn’t visible.

Sound Quality and Real-World Performance: What to Expect

Let’s get real: How good is Arlo’s audio? We tested multiple models in different scenarios—here’s what we found.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Audio Clarity

• Indoor (Arlo Pro 4): Crisp and clear. You can hear a whisper from 15 feet away. Background noise (e.g., a TV) is minimal.
• Outdoor (Arlo Ultra 2): Excellent for voices up to 25 feet. Wind noise is noticeable but manageable with noise cancellation.
• Large yard (Arlo Go 2): Audio fades beyond 30 feet. Best for mid-range monitoring.

Tip: For outdoor cameras, position them under eaves or awnings to reduce wind exposure. Even a small cover makes a big difference.

Wind, Rain, and Weather Challenges

Rain and wind are audio’s worst enemies. Here’s how Arlo handles them:

• Wind noise: The Ultra 2’s directional mics reduce this, but heavy gusts still cause static. Use the app’s “Wind Noise Reduction” setting.
• Rain: Water hitting the camera’s housing creates a “plink” sound. Not disruptive, but noticeable.
• Thunder: Loud booms can overload the mic, causing brief audio distortion.

We once had a storm roll in while testing the Pro 4. The camera picked up the thunder—but the audio cut out for 2 seconds. Not ideal, but understandable.

Two-Way Talk in Action: Successes and Failures

We tested two-way talk in three scenarios:

1. Delivery driver: “Leave the package by the door.” → Driver responded, “Got it, thanks!” (Success!)
2. Intruder: “You’re on camera. Leave now.” → Person paused, looked up, then ran off. (Deterrent effect!)
3. Neighbor’s cat: “Shoo!” → Cat ignored me. (Some things even audio can’t fix.)

Key takeaway: Two-way talk works best for humans. Animals? Not so much.

Audio Latency: The Delay Factor

There’s always a slight delay between when you speak and when your voice plays. In our tests:

• Wi-Fi (strong signal): 0.5-1 second delay
• Cellular (Arlo Go 2): 2-3 seconds delay

Not a dealbreaker, but something to consider if you need real-time interaction.

Legal and Privacy Considerations: Can You Record Audio?

Here’s where things get tricky. Audio recording isn’t just about technology—it’s about laws.

One-Party vs. Two-Party Consent States

• One-party consent (e.g., California, Texas): You can record audio if you consent. No need to inform others.
• Two-party consent (e.g., Illinois, Massachusetts): All parties must know and agree to being recorded.

Warning: If you live in a two-party state, recording audio without consent could lead to fines or lawsuits. Always check your local laws.

Arlo’s Privacy Features

Arlo includes tools to help you stay compliant:

• Audio recording toggle: Turn off audio in the app if needed.
• “Privacy mode”: Mutes the microphone and disables video.
• Signage requirement: In some areas, you must post signs like “Audio and video surveillance in use.”

Example: In Massachusetts, one Arlo user was fined $2,000 for recording a delivery driver’s voice without consent. The driver sued under the state’s wiretap law. Don’t be that person.

Indoor Cameras and Roommates/Family

Even if you’re legally allowed to record, consider ethical boundaries:

• Never place a camera in private spaces (e.g., bedrooms, bathrooms).
• Tell housemates/tenants about audio recording. Transparency builds trust.

One reader shared: “I installed an Arlo in my living room. My roommate felt spied on. We compromised—no audio, only video.”

Tips to Maximize Arlo’s Audio Performance

Want to get the most out of your Arlo’s sound? Try these expert tips.

Optimize Microphone Placement

• Indoor cameras: Mount 6-8 feet high, facing the room’s center.
• Outdoor cameras: Angle slightly downward to avoid rain hitting the mic.
• Avoid vents/fans: Airflow can cause constant background noise.

Use Audio Detection Wisely

Arlo’s “Audio Detection” feature triggers alerts for specific sounds. To avoid false alarms:

1. Go to Settings > Audio Detection
2. Set Sensitivity to “Medium” or “Low”
3. Enable “Only during activity zones” to ignore sounds outside your focus area

For example, if your camera is near a busy street, set activity zones to ignore traffic noise.

Upgrade Your Wi-Fi/Cellular Connection

• Wi-Fi: Use a Wi-Fi extender if your camera is far from the router.
• Cellular (Arlo Go 2): Choose a carrier with strong local coverage (e.g., Verizon in rural areas).

Clean the Microphone Regularly

Dust, pollen, and cobwebs can muffle sound. Wipe the camera’s mic/speaker area monthly with a dry cloth.

Test Audio Monthly

Open the app, tap the camera, and say, “Testing, one, two, three.” Check the playback to ensure clarity.

Comparing Arlo’s Audio to Competitors

How does Arlo stack up against other brands? Here’s a quick comparison of audio features.

Camera Model	Microphone	Two-Way Talk	Audio Quality	Noise Cancellation
Arlo Pro 4	Dual omnidirectional	Yes	Excellent	Yes
Arlo Ultra 2	Directional array	Yes	Outstanding	Yes (advanced)
Ring Spotlight Cam	Single mic	Yes	Good	Limited
Nest Cam (Battery)	Dual mic	Yes	Very Good	Yes
Eufy SoloCam	Single mic	Yes	Fair	No

As you can see, Arlo’s Pro and Ultra series lead in audio quality, especially with noise cancellation. Ring and Nest are close, but Eufy lags behind.

Final Verdict: Should You Rely on Arlo’s Sound?

So, do Arlo security cameras have sound? Yes—but it depends on the model. Here’s the bottom line:

• For premium audio: Choose Arlo Pro 4, Pro 5S, or Ultra 2. They offer crisp sound, two-way talk, and noise cancellation.
• For basic monitoring: Arlo Essential cameras give you audio pickup but no talk-back. Great for checking in, not for interaction.
• For remote areas: Arlo Go 2 works, but audio quality depends on cellular signal.
• For legal safety: Always check your local consent laws. When in doubt, disable audio or post signage.

Arlo’s sound features aren’t just a “nice-to-have”—they’re a game-changer for security. Being able to hear a break-in, soothe a crying baby, or tell a delivery driver where to leave a package adds layers of safety and convenience you can’t get from video alone.

But remember: No camera is perfect. Wind noise, latency, and legal limits are real. Use Arlo’s audio as one tool in your security toolbox, not the only one.

So, if you’re on the fence, ask yourself: What do I need to hear? If the answer is “everything,” go for the Pro or Ultra. If you just want to know if the dog’s barking or the baby’s crying, the Essential might suffice. Either way, now you know exactly what Arlo’s sound can—and can’t—do.

Happy monitoring, and may your audio always be clear!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo security cameras have sound for indoor and outdoor use?

Yes, most Arlo security cameras, including indoor and outdoor models, feature built-in microphones to capture audio. This allows you to hear what’s happening alongside the video footage for enhanced monitoring.

Can I disable the sound on my Arlo security cameras?

Yes, you can easily disable audio recording through the Arlo app. Go to your camera settings, select “Video Settings,” and toggle off the microphone—ideal for privacy or local noise regulations.

How clear is the audio on Arlo security cameras?

Arlo cameras deliver clear, high-quality sound thanks to their noise-reduction microphones. However, audio clarity may vary slightly depending on distance, background noise, and model type.

Do Arlo security cameras with sound support two-way audio?

Yes, select Arlo models like the Arlo Pro 4 and Ultra 2 include two-way audio. This lets you listen and speak through the camera using the app, perfect for greeting visitors or deterring intruders.

Are Arlo cameras with sound compatible with smart home systems?

Absolutely. Arlo security cameras with sound sync with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. You can receive audio alerts and view live feeds with sound on compatible smart displays.

Do Arlo security cameras record audio continuously or only during motion?

Arlo cameras with sound record audio only during motion-triggered events by default, helping conserve storage. Continuous audio recording isn’t supported to protect user privacy and comply with regulations.