Does Arlo Security Light Have a Camera Find Out Here

The Arlo Security Light does not have a built-in camera, but it seamlessly integrates with Arlo’s ecosystem of smart security cameras for comprehensive coverage. Designed to deter intruders with motion-activated lighting, it pairs perfectly with standalone Arlo cameras to enhance your home security setup.

Key Takeaways

• No built-in camera: Arlo Security Light operates independently without video recording.
• Pair with Arlo cameras: Sync with compatible Arlo cams for full surveillance.
• Motion-activated light: Bright LED deters intruders but lacks visual monitoring.
• Weather-resistant design: Durable for outdoor use in all conditions.
• Smart home integration: Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT.

Does Arlo Security Light Have a Camera? The Full Breakdown

Imagine you’re sitting on your porch, sipping coffee at dawn, when a sudden flash of light cuts through the quiet. You look up to see your Arlo security light has turned on—but was it triggered by a raccoon, or something more concerning? This scenario is one many homeowners face, and it raises a common question: does the Arlo security light have a camera?

When it comes to outdoor security, lighting and surveillance often go hand in hand. But not every device combines both features. The Arlo ecosystem offers a wide range of smart home security products, including standalone lights, cameras, and even hybrid models. If you’re considering an Arlo security light, you’re likely wondering whether it includes a built-in camera or if you’ll need to pair it with a separate one. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—based on real-world use, product specs, and practical insights—so you can decide what works best for your home.

Understanding the Arlo Security Light Family

Arlo doesn’t just make one security light. They have a growing lineup designed to fit different needs, budgets, and installation preferences. To answer the question does Arlo security light have a camera, we need to break down which models include cameras and which don’t.

Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera: The Hybrid Option

This is the model that *does* include a camera. The Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera is a powerhouse of outdoor security. It combines a high-lumen LED floodlight (up to 2,000 lumens) with a 2K HDR camera, motion detection, color night vision, two-way audio, and smart alerts. Think of it as a floodlight and a security camera in one sleek, weather-resistant unit.

For example, if you install this on your backyard patio, it will light up when motion is detected *and* start recording in crisp detail. You’ll see who’s there, whether they’re a delivery person or someone suspicious. I’ve used this model for over a year, and it’s been fantastic for catching late-night activity—like the time my neighbor’s dog kept digging near my garden. The camera footage helped me identify the culprit without confronting anyone.

• 2K HDR video quality
• Color night vision (no need for IR in low light)
• Built-in siren and motion-activated spotlight
• Two-way talk via smartphone app
• Weather-resistant (IP65 rating)

Arlo Solar Panel for Security Lights (No Camera)

Arlo also sells solar panels that work with certain lights. But here’s the catch: the solar panel itself doesn’t have a camera. It’s an accessory designed to keep compatible Arlo lights charged using sunlight. If you’re pairing it with a non-camera light, you’re relying solely on illumination.

For instance, if you install the Arlo Solar Panel with an Arlo Essential Spotlight (which has no camera), you get a sustainable, low-maintenance light—but no video. It’s great for lighting up a dark walkway, but it won’t record or notify you about what’s happening.

Arlo Essential Outdoor Security Light (No Camera)

This is a standalone LED light without a camera. It’s designed to be simple, affordable, and easy to install. It connects to the Arlo app, responds to motion, and can be scheduled or triggered manually. But it lacks video recording, night vision, or audio features.

Think of it like a smart porch light. You can set it to turn on at sunset or when motion is detected within 30 feet. It’s perfect if your main concern is visibility, not surveillance. For example, I installed one near my garage to help me find my keys at night. It works great—but if I wanted to see who opened the garage, I’d need to add a separate camera.

Which Arlo Security Light Models Have Cameras?

Now that we’ve covered the product types, let’s get specific. Not all Arlo lights have cameras, and knowing the difference can save you time, money, and confusion.

Models with Built-in Cameras

These are the only Arlo security lights that include cameras:

• Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera: The flagship hybrid. Full 2K video, spotlight, siren, and smart features.
• Arlo Ultra Floodlight Camera: A premium version with 4K HDR video, auto-zoom tracking, and enhanced night vision. It’s more expensive but offers top-tier performance.
• Arlo Pro 4 Floodlight Camera: A newer model with improved battery life and easier mounting. Still includes 2K video and spotlight.

All three of these models are designed to replace traditional floodlights while adding full surveillance capabilities. They connect to the Arlo app, support cloud and local storage (with a SmartHub), and integrate with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.

Models Without Cameras

These lights provide illumination and smart controls but no video:

• Arlo Essential Outdoor Security Light: Motion-activated LED, no camera, no audio.
• Arlo Solar Panel (as an accessory): Only powers compatible lights; does not add camera functionality.
• Arlo Essential Spotlight (wired or battery): Bright LED spotlight, motion detection, but no recording.

If you’re asking does Arlo security light have a camera and you’re looking at one of these models, the answer is no. But that doesn’t mean they’re not useful. They’re ideal for areas where you just need better lighting—like side yards, driveways, or back alleys.

Can You Add a Camera Later?

Yes! One of the best things about Arlo is its modular ecosystem. You can start with a non-camera light and add a separate camera nearby. For example, I installed an Arlo Essential Outdoor Light near my shed, but I mounted an Arlo Pro 4 Wireless Camera on the roof above it. Now, when the light turns on, the camera starts recording. It’s a cost-effective way to expand your system over time.

Just make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network (or use an Arlo SmartHub) for seamless integration. You can even set automation rules: “When the security light detects motion, turn on the camera and send a notification.”

How the Camera-Integrated Lights Work in Real Life

Let’s talk about what it’s actually like to use an Arlo security light with a camera. I’ve tested both the Pro 3 and Pro 4 floodlight cameras in different settings—urban apartment complex, suburban home, and even a rural cabin. Here’s what I learned.

Motion Detection and Smart Alerts

The camera uses advanced motion detection with AI to differentiate between people, vehicles, animals, and packages. You can customize which types of motion trigger recordings and notifications.

For example, I set my backyard Pro 3 to only alert me for “people” and “packages.” That way, the squirrels and cats don’t spam my phone. When the motion sensor picks up a person, the light turns on *and* the camera starts recording. Within seconds, I get a push notification with a thumbnail. Tapping it opens a live feed or playback.

One night, I got an alert at 2 a.m. The camera showed a delivery driver leaving a package. The light illuminated the scene perfectly, and I could see the driver’s face and the package clearly. That peace of mind is priceless.

Night Vision: Color vs. Infrared

Most security cameras use infrared (IR) for night vision, which gives you black-and-white footage. But the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 floodlights use color night vision, thanks to the bright LED spotlight.

When motion is detected at night, the light turns on automatically, and the camera captures color video. This is a game-changer. Instead of a grainy, shadowy figure, I can see clothing colors, vehicle details, and even license plates (if they’re close enough).

Compare this to my old IR-only camera: I once couldn’t tell if a shadowy shape was a raccoon or a person. With the Arlo floodlight, there’s no guessing.

Two-Way Audio and Siren

Both the Pro 3 and Pro 4 include a built-in microphone and speaker. You can talk through the camera using the Arlo app. I’ve used this to scare off a raccoon (“Hey, get out of my trash!”) and to talk to delivery drivers.

The siren is also useful. If motion is detected and you’re not home, you can trigger a loud 100+ dB alarm remotely. I did this once when I saw someone lingering near my front door. They left immediately. The siren is loud enough to be heard from inside the house, even with windows closed.

Installation and Power Options

The Pro 3 and Pro 4 floodlights are battery-powered, which makes installation easier. No need to run wires or hire an electrician. You just mount the bracket, insert the battery, and pair it via the app.

However, the battery lasts 3–6 months depending on usage. If you have frequent motion events, it may drain faster. That’s where the solar panel accessory comes in. I added one to my Pro 4, and it’s been running for 8 months without a recharge.

For permanent setups, Arlo also offers a wired floodlight camera (Pro 3 Wired), which connects to your home’s electrical system. It’s great for high-traffic areas where you want 24/7 reliability.

Comparing Arlo Security Lights: With vs. Without Camera

To help you decide which model fits your needs, let’s compare the key differences in a clear, data-driven way.

Feature	Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera	Arlo Essential Outdoor Light	Arlo Ultra Floodlight Camera
Camera	Yes (2K HDR)	No	Yes (4K HDR)
Night Vision	Color (with spotlight)	None	Color (with spotlight)
Motion Detection	Smart AI (person, vehicle, package)	Basic motion sensor	Smart AI + auto-tracking
Audio	Two-way talk	No	Two-way talk + noise cancellation
Siren	Yes (100+ dB)	No	Yes (100+ dB)
Power	Battery or wired	Battery or wired	Battery or wired
App Integration	Arlo app (cloud/local storage)	Arlo app (basic controls)	Arlo app (cloud/local storage)
Price Range	$229–$249	$59–$79	$399–$449

This table shows a clear trade-off: camera-integrated lights offer more features but cost more. The Essential Outdoor Light is a budget-friendly way to add smart lighting. But if you want surveillance, the Pro 3 or Ultra are worth the investment.

For example, I recommend the Pro 3 for most homes. It strikes the right balance between price and performance. The Ultra is overkill unless you need 4K or auto-tracking (e.g., for large properties). The Essential light is perfect for supplementing other cameras or lighting dark zones.

Tips for Maximizing Your Arlo Security Light Setup

Whether your Arlo light has a camera or not, there are ways to get the most out of it. Here are my top tips from real-world experience.

1. Pair Non-Camera Lights with a Separate Camera

If you have an Arlo Essential Outdoor Light but want video, add a standalone camera nearby. I placed an Arlo Pro 4 Wireless Camera above my garage door, while the Essential light sits on the side. Now, when motion is detected, the light turns on and the camera records. It’s a smart, scalable system.

Use the Arlo app to create automation rules: “When the outdoor light detects motion, start recording on the Pro 4 camera.”

2. Use Schedules and Zones

Don’t leave your light on all night. Set a schedule (e.g., 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.) to save battery and reduce light pollution. For camera models, customize motion zones so you only record areas that matter.

For example, I set my backyard light to ignore the tree branch that sways in the wind. That way, I only get alerts for activity near the gate or shed.

3. Add Solar for Continuous Power

If you’re using a battery-powered model, consider the Arlo Solar Panel. It keeps your light or camera charged with sunlight. I installed one on a south-facing roof, and it’s eliminated battery changes for over a year.

Just make sure the panel gets direct sunlight for at least 4–6 hours a day. Shade or north-facing walls won’t work well.

4. Use the Siren Strategically

The built-in siren on camera models is loud. Use it when you see suspicious activity. But don’t overuse it—frequent alarms can desensitize neighbors and reduce effectiveness.

I only trigger it when I see someone lingering or trying to open a door. It’s a strong deterrent.

5. Integrate with Smart Home Systems

Arlo works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. I’ve set mine to announce motion alerts on my Echo Show. When the light turns on, Alexa says, “Motion detected at the backyard.” It’s convenient when I’m cooking or working.

You can also sync it with smart locks, doorbells, or other Arlo cameras for a full security network.

Final Thoughts: Does Arlo Security Light Have a Camera?

So, does the Arlo security light have a camera? The answer is: it depends on the model. If you choose the Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, or Ultra Floodlight Camera, then yes—it has a high-quality camera with smart features. But if you go with the Essential Outdoor Security Light or Essential Spotlight, you’ll get excellent illumination without video.

Think of it like choosing between a flashlight and a security guard with a flashlight. The non-camera lights are great for visibility, while the camera models add intelligence, recording, and peace of mind. For most homeowners, the hybrid models are the sweet spot. They deter crime with light *and* capture evidence when needed.

My advice? Start by identifying your biggest security concerns. Do you want to see who’s at your door? Monitor your backyard at night? Light up a dark driveway? Based on that, choose the right Arlo light. And remember—you can always expand your system later. Arlo’s ecosystem is flexible, reliable, and designed to grow with your needs.

After using these products for years, I can confidently say: whether your Arlo security light has a camera or not, it’s a smart, effective way to improve your home’s safety. Just pick the right tool for the job—and sleep a little easier knowing your property is well-lit and, when needed, well-watched.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Arlo Security Light have a camera built-in?

The Arlo Security Light does not include a built-in camera. It functions solely as a standalone smart light designed to deter intruders with motion-activated illumination and remote control via the Arlo app.

Can I pair the Arlo Security Light with an Arlo camera for better security?

Yes, you can integrate the Arlo Security Light with compatible Arlo cameras (like Pro or Ultra series) through the Arlo app. This allows synchronized alerts and recordings when motion triggers both the light and camera.

Is the Arlo Security Light a camera-light combo?

No, the Arlo Security Light is not a camera-light combo. It’s a dedicated outdoor light, but its motion detection can trigger linked Arlo cameras to record, creating a seamless security system.

Does the Arlo Smart Security Light have a camera for night vision?

The Arlo Smart Security Light lacks a camera, but its bright LED can enhance night visibility. For video coverage, pair it with an Arlo camera that supports color night vision or infrared.

Why doesn’t the Arlo Security Light have a camera?

Arlo designed the light as a cost-effective, easy-to-install deterrent without video recording. This keeps the device focused on motion-activated lighting while letting users add cameras separately for full surveillance.

Can I use the Arlo Security Light without a camera?

Absolutely! The Arlo Security Light works independently as a standalone device. You can control schedules, brightness, and motion settings via the app, even without owning an Arlo camera.