How Can I Store Video Footage From My Arlo Camera Easily

Let’s be honest—owning an Arlo camera feels like stepping into the future. Whether you’re keeping an eye on your front porch, monitoring your kids playing in the backyard, or just trying to catch the raccoon that keeps knocking over your trash cans, these sleek little devices offer peace of mind. But here’s the thing: once you’ve got that footage, what do you do with it? Where does it go? And more importantly, how can you store video footage from your Arlo camera without pulling your hair out?

I’ve been there. I remember the first time I saw motion on my Arlo Pro 4—was it a delivery person or a squirrel? I wanted to check, but the video had already disappeared. I didn’t know then that Arlo’s storage options aren’t always intuitive. It took some trial, error, and a few frustrated late-night searches to figure out the best ways to keep my videos safe, accessible, and private. The good news? You don’t have to go through that. In this guide, I’ll walk you through every option, from free to premium, cloud to local, so you can find the perfect fit for your lifestyle—whether you’re a tech newbie or a DIY security pro.

Understanding Your Arlo Camera’s Storage Options

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “what.” Arlo cameras don’t come with built-in storage like a DVR or hard drive. Instead, they rely on a mix of cloud and local storage solutions. The key is knowing what each option offers and how it fits your needs.

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

Think of cloud storage like your Google Drive for videos. Your footage gets uploaded to remote servers (Arlo’s, in this case) and can be accessed from anywhere with internet. Local storage, on the other hand, is like saving files directly to a USB drive or SD card. It stays on your property, giving you more control and privacy.

Cloud storage: Great for remote access, automatic backups, and easy sharing. But it usually comes with a subscription cost and depends on internet speed.

Local storage: No recurring fees, faster access, and no risk of data being accessed by third parties. But it’s less convenient if you’re traveling or need to share clips with family.

What Determines Storage Duration?

How long your videos stay available depends on a few factors:

Subscription plan: Free plans may only keep videos for 7 days. Paid plans can go up to 60 days or more.

Camera model: Older models (like Arlo Go) may have different capabilities than newer ones (like Arlo Pro 5 or Arlo Ultra 2).
Motion detection settings: If your camera records every leaf that falls, you’ll fill up storage faster.
Video quality: 4K recordings take up way more space than 1080p.

For example, I once had my Arlo set to “Always Record” during a storm. By morning, I had over 3 hours of footage—and my cloud storage was full. Lesson learned: customize your recording zones and sensitivity to avoid wasting space.

Cloud Storage: The Easy, Accessible Solution

If you want hassle-free, remote access to your videos, cloud storage is your best friend. Arlo’s cloud plans are designed to work seamlessly with their ecosystem, so setup is usually a breeze.

Arlo Secure Plans: What You Get

Arlo offers several subscription tiers under their “Arlo Secure” brand. These aren’t just about storage—they include smart features like person, vehicle, and package detection, which can save you time when reviewing footage.

Arlo Secure (Single Camera): $2.99/month per camera. Stores 30 days of video history, includes AI detection, and allows 1080p resolution.
Arlo Secure (Multiple Cameras): $9.99/month for up to 5 cameras. Same features, but more cost-effective for larger setups.
Arlo Secure Plus: $14.99/month for up to 10 cameras. Adds 4K video support and extended storage options.

Pro tip: If you have multiple Arlo devices (like a doorbell and outdoor cam), the multi-camera plan usually saves you money. I saved $12/month by switching from individual subscriptions to the 5-camera plan.

How to Set Up Cloud Storage

Setting up cloud storage is simple:

Open the Arlo app on your phone or tablet.
Go to Settings > Subscription > Manage Subscription.
Choose your plan and follow the prompts to enter payment info.
Once active, your videos will automatically upload to the cloud when motion is detected.

Bonus: You can download clips directly from the app to your phone. I use this when I need to share a video with my HOA about a delivery mix-up—no more emailing screenshots!

Pros and Cons of Cloud Storage

Let’s keep it real—cloud storage isn’t perfect. Here’s what I’ve found:

✅ Pros:
- Access videos from anywhere—even on vacation.
- Automatic backups mean you never lose footage.
- AI detection helps you find important clips faster.

❌ Cons:
- Monthly cost adds up over time.
- Requires stable internet—buffering or outages can delay uploads.
- Privacy concerns: your data is on Arlo’s servers.

I’ve had a few hiccups with uploads during storms, but overall, the convenience outweighs the drawbacks for me.

Local Storage: Keep Your Footage Offline and Private

If you’re privacy-focused or just hate monthly fees, local storage is a solid alternative. It gives you full control over your data and works even if the internet goes down.

Using an SD Card (MicroSD) with Arlo Cameras

Many Arlo models—like the Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5, and Ultra—support microSD cards. Here’s how it works:

Insert a microSD card (up to 256GB) into the camera’s slot (usually under a small cover).
Format the card via the Arlo app (Settings > Camera > Local Storage).

Once set up, the camera saves videos directly to the card.

I use a 128GB card in my Arlo Pro 4. It holds about 2 weeks of 1080p footage (with motion detection), which is perfect for my needs. Just remember: if the camera loses power or the card fails, you lose access until it’s fixed.

Arlo SmartHub: The Bridge for Local and Cloud

For older models (like Arlo Pro 2 or Arlo Go), you’ll need an Arlo SmartHub to use local storage. This device connects to your router and acts as a central hub for your cameras. It also supports USB drives for even more storage.

Connect the SmartHub to your router via Ethernet.
Plug in a USB drive (up to 2TB).
Pair your cameras with the hub through the app.

I used this setup for a year when I had an older Arlo system. The SmartHub let me store 30 days of footage on a 1TB drive—no cloud needed. Downside? The hub costs around $70, and USB drives can fail (mine did after 18 months, but I had backups).

Tips for Managing Local Storage

Check storage space regularly: The Arlo app shows how much space is left. I get a notification when my card hits 80% capacity.
Use high-endurance microSD cards: Brands like Samsung Pro Endurance or SanDisk High Endurance are built for constant writing/rewriting.

Label and back up: If you remove the card, label it with the date and keep it in a safe place. I store mine in a fireproof safe.

Hybrid Storage: Best of Both Worlds

Why choose one when you can have both? Hybrid storage uses cloud and local options together. It’s like having a safety net—your videos are backed up in the cloud, but also saved locally for quick access.

How Hybrid Storage Works

Most newer Arlo cameras (Pro 4 and later) support simultaneous cloud and local storage. Here’s how to set it up:

Insert a microSD card into your camera.
Subscribe to an Arlo Secure plan (even the basic one).
In the app, go to Settings > Camera > Video Quality & Storage.
Toggle on “Save to Local Storage” and “Upload to Cloud”.

Now, every motion event saves to both places. I love this setup because:

If my internet goes out, the local card still records.
If my camera gets stolen, the cloud backup is safe.

I can quickly review clips from the SD card without waiting for cloud loading.

When Hybrid Storage Makes Sense

This is ideal if you:

Want redundancy (extra protection against data loss).
Have spotty internet but still want cloud access.
Need to comply with local privacy laws (some areas require on-premise storage).

One caveat: hybrid storage uses more power and can shorten battery life in wireless cameras. I keep my Arlo Pro 4 plugged in for this reason.

Advanced Tips: Maximize Efficiency and Security

Once you’ve chosen your storage method, here are some pro tips to make it work even better for you.

Optimize Recording Settings

Not all motion is worth recording. Use these settings to save space:

Custom Activity Zones: Tell your camera to ignore trees or street traffic. In the app, draw boxes around areas you care about (like your front door).

Sensitivity Adjustment: Lower the sensitivity if you get too many false alerts (e.g., from shadows or pets).
Schedule Recording: Set cameras to record only during certain hours (e.g., 6 PM to 8 AM).

I reduced my daily recordings by 60% just by tweaking these settings. My SD card now lasts twice as long!

Secure Your Footage

Whether it’s in the cloud or on a card, your videos contain sensitive info. Protect them:

Use strong passwords: Enable two-factor authentication in the Arlo app.
Encrypt SD cards: Some microSD cards (like Samsung Pro Plus) offer hardware encryption.

Physically secure cameras: Mount them out of reach to prevent tampering.

I once had a neighbor’s kid try to “borrow” my camera. After that, I installed a lockable mount and added a privacy sticker.

Organize and Archive Old Videos

Don’t let your storage get cluttered. Create a system:

Download important clips (e.g., break-ins, deliveries) to a folder on your computer.

Label files clearly: “2023-10-05_FrontDoor_PackageDelivered.mp4”.
Delete unneeded footage from the cloud or SD card monthly.

I use Google Drive to store archived videos. It’s free, searchable, and backed up off-site.

Comparison Table: Cloud vs. Local vs. Hybrid Storage

Feature	Cloud Storage	Local Storage (SD Card)	Hybrid Storage
Cost	$2.99–$14.99/month	One-time (card cost)	Subscription + one-time (card)
Accessibility	Anywhere with internet	Only with camera or card reader	Both remote and local
Storage Limit	30–60 days (plan-dependent)	Up to 256GB (card-dependent)	Cloud duration + card capacity
Internet Required	Yes (for upload)	No	Yes (for cloud upload)
Best For	Remote access, automatic backups	Privacy, no subscriptions	Redundancy, reliability

Remember: there’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution. Your choice depends on your budget, privacy needs, and how often you check footage.

Final Thoughts: Find What Works for You

So, how can you store video footage from your Arlo camera? The answer isn’t just one method—it’s about finding the right mix for your life. If you’re always on the go and want peace of mind, cloud storage is worth the subscription. If you’re privacy-conscious or live in a low-signal area, a microSD card gives you control. And if you want the ultimate safety net, hybrid storage covers all the bases.

Here’s my final advice: start simple. Try the free cloud trial, then add a microSD card. See how each feels. Adjust your settings. Learn what works. I’ve changed my setup three times over the years—and that’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s having footage you can trust, when you need it, without breaking the bank or your sanity.

And hey, if you’re still unsure? Talk to other Arlo users. Join a Reddit thread. Watch YouTube tutorials. The community is full of people who’ve been exactly where you are. Because at the end of the day, your security system should make life easier—not more complicated. With the right storage strategy, your Arlo camera won’t just record moments. It’ll protect them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I store video footage from my Arlo camera using cloud storage?

Arlo offers cloud storage plans that automatically save your video footage securely online. You can access these recordings anytime via the Arlo app or web portal, with options for 24/7 continuous or event-based storage.

Can I store Arlo camera footage locally instead of using the cloud?

Yes, you can use a microSD card (for select Arlo models) or a USB drive connected to an Arlo SmartHub to store footage locally. This method provides free, offline storage without subscription fees.

How do I set up automatic video storage for my Arlo camera?

Enable automatic storage by subscribing to an Arlo cloud plan or configuring local storage in the Arlo app under “Settings > Storage.” Choose your preferred retention period and backup method.

What is the best way to store long-term video footage from my Arlo camera?

For long-term storage, use Arlo’s cloud plans (up to 60-day retention) or regularly back up local footage to an external hard drive. Cloud storage is ideal for off-site security, while local backups save costs.

How much does it cost to store video footage from my Arlo camera?

Cloud storage starts at $2.99/month per camera (Arlo Secure plans). Local storage via microSD/USB is free but requires manual management. Choose based on your budget and retention needs.

Can I download and save Arlo camera footage to my phone or computer?

Yes, use the Arlo app to download clips directly to your phone or log into your Arlo account online to export videos to your computer. This works for both cloud and locally stored footage.

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Key Takeaways

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