Does Arlo Camera Have Sound Find Out Here

Yes, most Arlo cameras have built-in microphones that capture clear audio alongside video, enhancing home security with sound detection and two-way talk features. This audio capability varies slightly by model, with newer versions offering improved noise reduction and real-time alerts when sound is detected.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, Arlo cameras have sound: Most models include built-in microphones for audio recording.
• Check local laws: Audio recording may be restricted in some regions—verify before use.
• Adjust sensitivity settings: Customize motion and sound detection to reduce false alerts.
• Two-way audio available: Speak through the camera using the Arlo app on select models.
• Disable audio if needed: Mute microphone via app for privacy or compliance.
• Audio enhances security: Use sound alerts to identify unusual activity near your property.

Does Arlo Camera Have Sound? Find Out Here

Imagine this: You’re away on vacation, sipping a cocktail on a sunny beach, when your phone buzzes. Your Arlo camera has detected motion. You open the app, expecting to see who’s at your front door, but instead, you’re met with silence. No barking dog, no delivery driver calling out, no kids laughing in the backyard. Just a still image. That’s when you ask yourself: Does Arlo camera have sound?

Sound can be a game-changer for home security. It adds a layer of context—was that a knock or a knock-over? Was it the neighbor saying hello or a stranger casing your home? For many, the ability to hear what’s happening is just as important as seeing it. Arlo, a leading name in smart home security, offers a range of cameras, but not all of them come with audio features. Whether you’re a new homeowner setting up your first security system or a tech-savvy user upgrading your gear, knowing whether your Arlo camera captures sound can make a big difference in your peace of mind. Let’s dive into the details and find out exactly which Arlo cameras have sound, how it works, and what you can expect in real-life situations.

Which Arlo Cameras Have Built-in Microphones?

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to audio. Some models come with built-in microphones, others don’t—and a few even include two-way audio. Let’s break it down by model so you can pick the right one for your needs.

Arlo Pro Series (Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S)

The Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, and Pro 5S are among the most popular models, and they all come with built-in microphones. These microphones are designed to capture ambient sound within a reasonable range—typically up to 20 feet (6 meters) in ideal conditions. The quality is clear enough to distinguish voices, barking dogs, or even a car engine starting.

One user shared, “I was able to hear my neighbor’s dog barking at a raccoon at 2 a.m. The mic picked it up perfectly, and I could see the whole thing unfold in the video.” That’s the kind of situational awareness sound brings.

These models also support two-way audio, meaning you can speak through the camera using the Arlo app. This is great for scaring off intruders or telling the delivery person to leave the package by the back gate.

Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2

The Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2 take audio to the next level. They feature high-fidelity microphones with noise-canceling technology. This means background noise—like wind or traffic—is reduced, so voices and important sounds come through more clearly.

For example, if you live near a busy street, the Ultra’s mic will filter out the constant hum of cars and focus on what matters: a conversation, a shout, or a window being broken. The two-way talk feature is also enhanced, with clearer speaker output and better microphone sensitivity.

Arlo Essential Series (Indoor, Outdoor, Wired, Wireless)

The Arlo Essential cameras (Indoor, Outdoor, Wired, and Wireless) also include built-in microphones. However, the audio quality is more basic compared to the Pro and Ultra lines. You’ll still hear voices and loud noises, but the range and clarity are more limited.

One thing to note: The Arlo Essential Indoor has a privacy shutter that physically covers the lens. When the shutter is closed, the microphone is also disabled—this is a smart privacy feature for when you’re home and don’t want to be recorded.

Arlo Go 2 and Arlo Go (LTE Cameras)

These cellular-powered cameras are designed for remote locations—like a cabin, boat, or construction site. Both the Arlo Go and Arlo Go 2 include microphones, so you can hear what’s happening even in areas without Wi-Fi. The Go 2 improves on the original with better audio clarity and reduced latency in two-way talk.

Arlo Baby Monitor

Yes, even the Arlo Baby Monitor has a microphone. In fact, it’s one of the most sensitive in the lineup. It’s designed to pick up soft sounds like baby coos, crying, or even breathing. Parents love that they can listen in real-time or review audio clips later. Plus, it includes lullabies and a two-way talk feature to soothe the baby from another room.

How Does Arlo’s Audio Feature Work?

Now that we know which models have sound, let’s look at how the audio actually works. It’s not just about having a microphone—there’s a whole system behind the scenes that determines how well you hear what’s happening.

Microphone Sensitivity and Range

Arlo cameras use omnidirectional microphones, meaning they pick up sound from all around the camera. The sensitivity varies by model:

• Pro and Ultra series: Up to 20 feet (6 meters) with clear voice capture.
• Essential series: Around 15 feet (4.5 meters), with some background noise.
• Arlo Baby: Exceptionally sensitive, optimized for soft sounds up to 25 feet (7.5 meters).

Tip: Position your camera so it’s not blocked by glass, thick walls, or foliage. These can muffle sound. For example, if you’re placing it behind a window, make sure the mic is on the inside or use an outdoor-rated model with a weatherproof mic housing.

Two-Way Audio: Talk Through Your Camera

One of the coolest features in Arlo cameras with sound is two-way audio. When motion is detected, you can open the Arlo app, tap the speaker icon, and speak through the camera’s built-in speaker. This works in real time—there’s usually a slight delay (1–2 seconds), but it’s fast enough for most interactions.

Here’s a real-life example: A delivery person rings your doorbell, but you’re in the backyard. You get a notification, open the app, and say, “Leave it by the garage, please.” They hear you through the camera and comply. No missed packages, no awkward “I wasn’t home” messages.

Pro tip: Use this feature to deter suspicious activity. A loud “Hello! I can see you!” can scare off someone who thought no one was home.

Audio Alerts and Notifications

Arlo allows you to customize what triggers a notification. You can set it to alert you for:

• Motion only
• Sound only (e.g., loud noises like glass breaking)
• Both motion and sound

This is especially useful if you want to know when your dog barks excessively or if a window is smashed. In the Arlo app, go to Settings > Alerts > Audio Detection and adjust the sensitivity. Be careful not to set it too high—you might get false alarms from passing cars or wind.

Audio in Video Recordings

When your Arlo camera records a video, the audio is included by default—unless you’ve disabled it in settings. This is crucial for reviewing incidents. For example, if someone claims they “didn’t mean to break the window,” you can check the audio to see if they were arguing or acting suspiciously.

Note: Audio is stored with your video clips, whether you use local storage (SD card) or cloud storage (Arlo Secure subscription). However, some regions have laws about recording audio without consent, so be sure to check local regulations before enabling audio in private spaces like bedrooms or bathrooms.

Limitations and Things to Keep in Mind

While Arlo’s audio features are impressive, they’re not perfect. There are a few limitations and quirks you should know about before relying on sound for security.

Weather and Environmental Factors

Outdoor cameras are exposed to the elements, and that affects audio. Wind, rain, and traffic noise can interfere with microphone performance. The Arlo Ultra has noise cancellation, but even it struggles in a thunderstorm.

One user reported: “I couldn’t hear a thing during a heavy downpour. The mic just picked up raindrops hitting the camera.” This is a common issue with outdoor audio. The solution? Pair your camera with a smart doorbell (like Arlo Video Doorbell) for clearer indoor audio, or use audio alerts as a supplement—not a replacement—for visual monitoring.

Audio Quality in Noisy Areas

If you live in a busy urban area or near a highway, background noise can drown out important sounds. The Arlo Essential cameras, in particular, struggle in these environments. Voices may sound muffled or distorted.

Tip: Use the Arlo Secure app’s audio filtering to reduce background noise. You can also adjust the microphone sensitivity to focus on higher-pitched sounds (like voices) and ignore lower rumbles (like traffic).

Privacy Concerns and Legal Restrictions

Recording audio can be a legal gray area. In some U.S. states (like California and Illinois), it’s illegal to record conversations without all parties’ consent. Even if you’re recording on your own property, if a visitor isn’t aware, you could be in violation.

Best practice: Use audio only in public-facing areas (front yard, driveway, porch). Avoid placing microphones in private spaces like bedrooms, bathrooms, or backyards with no public access. Arlo includes a privacy mode in many models—use it to disable audio when you’re home.

Two-Way Audio Latency

While two-way talk is useful, there’s often a 1–3 second delay. This can make conversations feel awkward or unresponsive. For example, if you say “Hello,” and the person doesn’t answer immediately, they might not realize you’re talking.

Workaround: Use short, clear phrases. “Leave the package here,” not “Hey, I’m watching you, please don’t take anything.” This reduces confusion and makes interactions smoother.

Tips to Maximize Arlo’s Audio Performance

Want to get the most out of your Arlo camera’s sound features? Here are some practical tips to improve audio quality and usability.

Optimize Camera Placement

Position your camera where sound is most likely to be clear:

• Near entry points (doors, windows)
• At head height (5–6 feet off the ground)
• Away from noisy sources (AC units, fans, busy streets)

For indoor cameras, avoid placing them behind glass or in corners where sound can echo. A central location in a room works best.

Use Audio Detection Wisely

Set up audio detection for specific scenarios:

• Glass break detection: Set sensitivity to high for loud, sharp sounds.
• Pet monitoring: Use medium sensitivity to catch barking without false alarms.
• Baby monitor: Enable continuous audio streaming for real-time listening.

Remember: Audio detection uses more battery on wireless models. If you’re using an Arlo Essential Wire-Free, consider turning it off during quiet hours to save power.

Pair with Other Smart Devices

Combine your Arlo camera with other smart devices for a complete security setup:

• Smart doorbells: Use Arlo Video Doorbell for clearer indoor audio when someone is at the door.
• Smart speakers: Set up Alexa or Google Assistant to announce motion or sound alerts.
• Smart lights: Turn on lights when sound is detected to deter intruders.

Example: “When Arlo detects sound at night, turn on the porch light and announce, ‘Motion detected at front door.’”

Update Firmware Regularly

Arlo frequently releases firmware updates that improve audio performance. For example, the Pro 4 received a 2023 update that reduced background noise and improved two-way talk clarity.

Check for updates in the Arlo app under Settings > My Devices > [Your Camera] > Firmware. Enable automatic updates for the best experience.

Arlo Audio Feature Comparison Table

Model	Built-in Microphone?	Two-Way Audio?	Audio Range (Approx.)	Noise Cancellation?	Best For
Arlo Pro 3/4/5S	Yes	Yes	20 feet	Basic	General home security, outdoor use
Arlo Ultra/Ultra 2	Yes	Yes	25 feet	Advanced	High-end security, noisy areas
Arlo Essential (All)	Yes	Yes	15 feet	No	Entry-level, budget setups
Arlo Go 2	Yes	Yes	20 feet	Basic	Remote locations, no Wi-Fi
Arlo Baby Monitor	Yes	Yes	25+ feet	High (for soft sounds)	Nursery, child monitoring

Final Thoughts: Is Sound Worth It?

So, does Arlo camera have sound? The answer is: Yes—but it depends on the model. Most Arlo cameras, from the budget-friendly Essential to the premium Ultra, include built-in microphones and two-way audio. The quality, range, and features vary, but the core functionality is there.

For many users, sound adds invaluable context. It turns a silent video clip into a story. It lets you interact with visitors, monitor pets, or even check on your kids. But it’s not without limitations. Weather, noise, privacy laws, and latency can affect performance.

The key is to set realistic expectations. Don’t expect studio-quality audio in a thunderstorm. Instead, use sound as one piece of a larger security puzzle—paired with motion detection, smart alerts, and visual monitoring.

If you’re buying a new Arlo camera and audio matters to you, go for the Pro 4, Ultra 2, or Arlo Baby—they offer the best balance of clarity, range, and features. And if you already have an Arlo camera, take a few minutes to optimize its audio settings. You might be surprised at how much more you can hear.

At the end of the day, a security camera with sound isn’t just about seeing—it’s about knowing. And when it comes to protecting your home, a little extra knowledge can go a long way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Arlo camera have sound for monitoring purposes?

Yes, most Arlo cameras include built-in microphones that capture clear audio, allowing you to monitor both sound and video. This feature is especially useful for detecting conversations, alarms, or unusual noises around your property.

Can I disable the sound on my Arlo camera?

Yes, you can easily disable audio recording through the Arlo app under camera settings. This is ideal if you prefer video-only surveillance or need to comply with privacy regulations in certain areas.

Does the Arlo camera with sound work at night?

Yes, Arlo cameras with sound continue to record audio even during nighttime, paired with their night vision capabilities. The microphone operates independently of the camera’s infrared or spotlight features.

How far can Arlo cameras detect sound?

Arlo camera sound detection typically works within a range of 15–30 feet, depending on the model and environmental factors like background noise. For best results, place the camera in a central location away from obstructions.

Do all Arlo cameras have two-way audio?

Not all models—only select Arlo cameras (like the Pro 4, Ultra, and Essential series) include two-way audio. This feature lets you speak through the camera using the app, perfect for greeting visitors or deterring intruders.

Is the sound quality good on Arlo cameras?

Yes, Arlo cameras deliver clear, high-quality audio thanks to noise-reduction technology and sensitive microphones. You can easily distinguish voices or sounds without excessive distortion, even in outdoor environments.