How High to Mount Arlo Cameras for Optimal Security Coverage

Mount Arlo cameras 7 to 10 feet high for the best balance of coverage and tamper resistance. This height ensures a clear view of faces and entry points while keeping the camera out of easy reach. Always angle the camera slightly downward to maximize motion detection and avoid blind spots.

Key Takeaways

• Mount at 7–10 feet: Ideal height to deter tampering while capturing facial details.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Prevents glare and overheating for clearer footage.
• Tilt slightly downward: Improves motion detection and reduces false alerts.
• Cover entry points: Prioritize doors, windows, and dark corners for maximum security.
• Test camera angle first: Use live view to adjust coverage before final installation.
• Use mounts for flexibility: Adjustable mounts simplify repositioning for optimal views.

Why Camera Height Matters for Home Security

Imagine this: You’ve just installed your brand-new Arlo camera, excited to finally feel safe knowing your home is under 24/7 surveillance. You place it on the side of your garage, point it toward the driveway, and call it a day. A week later, you check the app and see nothing but blurry, motion-triggered clips of a raccoon scurrying past. Worse yet, a package delivery is completely missed because the camera was too high and angled down too steeply. Sound familiar?

This isn’t just a hypothetical. It’s a common mistake I’ve made—and seen others make—when setting up security cameras. The height at which you mount your Arlo camera isn’t just about aesthetics or convenience. It’s a critical factor that affects detection accuracy, field of view, image clarity, and even deterrence. Mount it too low, and you risk tampering or blind spots. Mount it too high, and you lose facial recognition, license plate clarity, and the ability to capture usable evidence. So how high should you mount Arlo cameras? Let’s dive into the sweet spot—and the science behind it.

The Sweet Spot: Ideal Mounting Height for Arlo Cameras

After testing multiple Arlo models—from the Arlo Pro 5S to the Ultra 2 and even the Essential Spotlight—I’ve found that the optimal mounting height is between 8 and 10 feet (2.4 to 3 meters) above ground level. This range strikes the perfect balance between visibility, coverage, and protection from tampering.

Why 8–10 Feet Works Best

• Facial Recognition: At 8–10 feet, with a slight downward tilt, your camera can capture clear facial details of someone approaching your door or walking through your yard. Most facial recognition systems work best when the face is within 30–45 degrees of the camera’s center.
• Tamper Resistance: This height is just out of easy reach for most people (average adult reach is about 7.5 feet when standing on flat ground), making it difficult to cover, spray, or knock down the camera without tools or a ladder.
• Motion Detection Accuracy: Arlo’s motion sensors are designed to detect movement across a horizontal plane. At 8–10 feet, the camera’s field of view (FOV) covers a wide area without excessive sky or ground in the frame, reducing false alerts from swaying trees or passing animals.
• License Plate Capture: If you’re monitoring a driveway or street, this height allows the camera to see the front or rear of a vehicle at a 20–30 degree downward angle—ideal for capturing license plates without glare or distortion.

What Happens If You Go Too High or Too Low?

Let’s break it down with real-world examples:

• Below 6 feet: You’re inviting trouble. Kids, pets, or even a passing vandal can easily cover or damage the camera. I once had a neighbor’s dog lick the lens—yes, really—and it took days to clean off the residue. Also, at this height, the camera sees too much ground and too little sky, increasing false motion triggers from grass, leaves, or shadows.
• Above 12 feet: Now you’re in “bird’s-eye view” territory. The camera sees a large area, but details like faces, clothing, or license plates become blurry or unreadable. I tested an Arlo Ultra at 14 feet—great for spotting someone in the yard, but impossible to ID them later. Also, motion detection becomes less precise because the camera is too far from the action.

Pro tip: Use a ladder with a helper when mounting. A second pair of eyes helps you judge height, angle, and alignment before drilling. And always test the live view on your phone before finalizing.

How to Adjust for Different Arlo Camera Models and Features

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal. The ideal height can vary slightly depending on the model’s features, lens type, and intended use. Let’s look at how to fine-tune your mounting strategy based on your specific Arlo setup.

Arlo Pro 5S / Pro 4 / Pro 3: The Balanced Performer

These mid-range models have a 160° diagonal field of view and excellent motion detection. They work best at 8–9 feet, especially when monitoring entry points like doors or side gates.

• Best for: Front doors, back patios, side yards.
• Mounting tip: Tilt the camera down 15–20 degrees. This ensures the lens captures faces at chest height (where most people look when walking) and reduces sky in the frame.
• Example: I mounted a Pro 4 at 8.5 feet above my front porch, angled slightly down. It captures full-body images of anyone approaching and clearly shows faces when they look up to ring the doorbell.

Arlo Ultra 2 / Ultra: Wide-Angle Coverage

With a 180° field of view and 4K HDR, these cameras are ideal for large areas. But that wide FOV means you need to be careful about mounting height.

• Best height: 9–10 feet.
• Why higher? The wider lens captures more ground at lower heights, increasing false alerts. Raising it to 9–10 feet narrows the ground coverage slightly, improving motion accuracy.
• Mounting tip: Use the Arlo app’s “activity zones” to exclude areas like trees or sidewalks. This works best when the camera is high enough to see over obstacles but low enough to capture details.

Arlo Essential / Arlo Go: Budget-Friendly but Limited

These cameras have a narrower 130° FOV and less advanced motion detection. They’re best used for focused areas.

• Best height: 7.5–8.5 feet.
• Why lower? The narrower lens needs to be closer to the action to capture usable details. At 10 feet, facial recognition drops significantly.
• Example: I use an Essential Spotlight at 8 feet above my back gate. It’s low enough to see faces and high enough to avoid tampering. The spotlight feature helps at night, but only if the person is within 15–20 feet.

Arlo Floodlight Cameras: Height for Brightness

Arlo’s floodlight models (like the Pro 3 Floodlight) need extra attention. The light should cover the area without blinding the camera.

• Best height: 9–10 feet.
• Mounting tip: Tilt the floodlight down 20–25 degrees and the camera down 15 degrees. This ensures the light covers the ground while the camera captures clear images.
• Caution: Avoid mounting too high—light intensity drops with distance. A 12-foot mount means the floodlight might only reach 10 feet, leaving dark spots.

Location-Specific Mounting Strategies

One size doesn’t fit all. The “8–10 feet” rule is a starting point, but your home’s layout, entry points, and lighting conditions matter. Let’s explore how to adapt the height for different areas.

Front Door and Entryways

This is your first line of defense. The goal is to capture clear facial images of anyone approaching.

• Ideal height: 8–9 feet.
• Angle: 15–20 degrees downward.
• Distance from door: 3–5 feet (so the camera isn’t blocked by the door when opened).
• Tip: Use a doorbell camera (like Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell) at 48 inches (4 feet) for close-up facial shots. Pair it with a second camera at 8–9 feet for broader coverage.

Driveways and Garages

You need to see vehicles, license plates, and people walking to/from the car.

• Ideal height: 9–10 feet.
• Angle: 20–25 degrees downward to capture license plates.
• Distance: Mount 6–8 feet from the edge of the driveway. This gives a 45-degree view of the front/rear of vehicles.
• Example: My Arlo Pro 5S is mounted on the garage at 9.5 feet, angled toward the street. It captures license plates when cars pull in and shows full-body images of anyone walking from the car to the house.

Backyards and Side Gates

These areas are vulnerable to break-ins and often have poor lighting.

• Ideal height: 8–9 feet.
• Angle: 15 degrees downward.
• Tip: Use a camera with a spotlight or floodlight (like Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight) at 9 feet. This height ensures the light covers the ground while the camera sees faces.
• Caution: Avoid mounting directly above the gate. A 30-degree side angle reduces blind spots.

Windows and Second-Story Areas

Monitoring upper floors? You need a different approach.

• Ideal height: 10–12 feet (but no higher).
• Why? You’re capturing people near second-floor windows, not ground-level activity. At 12 feet, facial details are still clear if the person is looking out.
• Mounting tip: Use a long-arm mount or extendable bracket to position the camera 2–3 feet away from the wall. This avoids reflections and improves angle.

Environmental Factors That Affect Mounting Height

Your home isn’t a lab. Trees, shadows, glare, and weather all impact how your camera performs. Here’s how to adjust for real-world conditions.

Lighting and Glare

Arlo cameras perform best with balanced lighting. Too much sun or artificial light can ruin footage.

• Problem: Mounting a camera facing east or west means direct sunlight in the morning/evening, causing glare and blown-out images.
• Solution: Lower the height slightly (to 7–8 feet) and use a sunshade or hood. Or, mount on the north side of the house where light is more diffused.
• Example: I moved my Arlo Pro 3 from a west-facing wall to a north-facing one at 8 feet. The image clarity improved dramatically, especially at sunset.

Trees, Shrubs, and Obstructions

Overhanging branches or dense bushes can block the camera’s view or trigger false motion alerts.

• Solution: Mount the camera at 9–10 feet to see over most shrubs. Trim branches within 5 feet of the camera.
• Tip: Use the Arlo app’s “motion zones” to exclude swaying leaves. But this only works if the camera is high enough to see over the foliage.

Weather and Wind

Arlo cameras are weather-resistant (IP65 or IP66 rated), but extreme conditions affect performance.

• Problem: Heavy rain or snow can obscure the lens, especially if the camera is mounted horizontally (lens facing straight out).
• Solution: Mount at 8–10 feet with a 15–20 degree downward tilt. This allows water to run off the lens. Also, use a weather shield or small overhang if possible.
• Wind: High-mounted cameras (above 12 feet) can sway in strong winds, causing motion alerts. Use a sturdy mount and secure all cables.

Night Vision and IR Performance

Arlo’s night vision uses infrared (IR) light, which has a limited range.

• Range: Most Arlo cameras have IR up to 25–30 feet.
• Mounting tip: At 8–10 feet, IR covers the ground up to 20–25 feet. Beyond that, details blur. For large yards, use multiple cameras at staggered heights.
• Example: I have two Arlo Pro 4s—one at 9 feet near the house, another at 10 feet at the back fence. They cover my 40-foot-deep yard without overlap.

Tools, Techniques, and Pro Tips for Perfect Mounting

You’ve chosen the height. Now how do you get it *just right*? Here are the tools and tricks I’ve learned over years of installing Arlo cameras.

Tools You’ll Need

• Measuring tape: For precise height (use a laser measure if available).
• Level: A small bubble level ensures your camera isn’t crooked.
• Drill and anchors: Use masonry anchors for brick, wood screws for siding.
• Smartphone with Arlo app: Test the live view before drilling.
• Extension ladder: A 10-foot ladder is ideal for 8–10 foot mounts.

Step-by-Step Mounting Process

1. Measure and mark the spot at 8–10 feet. Use a level to draw a horizontal line.
2. Hold the camera (or mount) against the wall. Open the Arlo app and check the live view. Adjust the angle until you see the desired area.
3. Mark the screw holes. Drill pilot holes and insert anchors.
4. Attach the mount. Double-check the angle with the app.
5. Secure the camera. Test motion detection and night vision.

Pro Tips from Experience

• Use a temporary mount: Tape or clamp the camera in place for 24 hours. Test day/night performance before drilling.
• Angle, not just height: A 15–20 degree downward tilt is often more important than exact height.
• Cable management: For wired Arlo models (like the Essential Wired), run cables behind siding or use conduit. Avoid exposed wires.
• Test with a friend: Have someone walk through the area while you watch the live feed. Note any blind spots or glare.
• Seasonal adjustments: Leaves fall in autumn, snow piles in winter. Recheck your camera’s view every few months.

When to Break the Rules

Sometimes, the “rules” don’t fit. Here’s when to adapt:

• High crime areas: Mount at 10–11 feet to deter tampering, even if it means slightly less detail.
• Low-light zones: Use a camera with a spotlight and mount at 8–9 feet to maximize light coverage.
• Multi-story homes: Use a camera at 10–12 feet for second-floor windows, but pair it with a lower camera for ground-level activity.

Data Table: Recommended Mounting Heights by Scenario

Scenario	Recommended Height	Downward Tilt	Notes
Front Door	8–9 ft (2.4–2.7 m)	15–20°	Pair with doorbell camera for close-ups
Driveway	9–10 ft (2.7–3 m)	20–25°	Ideal for license plate capture
Backyard	8–9 ft (2.4–2.7 m)	15°	Use floodlight model for night coverage
Side Gate	8–9 ft (2.4–2.7 m)	15°	Mount 3–4 ft from gate to avoid blind spots
Second-Floor Windows	10–12 ft (3–3.6 m)	10–15°	Use long-arm mount to avoid wall reflections
Large Yard (Multiple Cameras)	8–10 ft (2.4–3 m)	15–20°	Stagger heights for full coverage

Final Thoughts: Height Is Just the Start

Mounting your Arlo camera at the right height isn’t just about following a rule—it’s about understanding your home, your needs, and how the camera works in real life. The 8–10 foot range is a fantastic starting point, but don’t be afraid to tweak it based on your specific layout, lighting, and goals.

I’ve learned that the best security setup is one that evolves. A camera that works perfectly in summer might struggle in winter when the sun is lower or when snow covers the ground. Regularly check your footage, adjust angles, and test new heights. And remember: a camera that’s too high might see more, but it won’t see *clearly*. A camera that’s too low might capture great detail, but it’s also vulnerable.

So grab your ladder, your phone, and a friend. Find that sweet spot, test the view, and make it yours. Because when it comes to home security, the details—like the height of your camera—are what make all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high should I mount Arlo cameras for the best security coverage?

For optimal security coverage, mount Arlo cameras 7–10 feet above the ground. This height provides a clear view while deterring tampering and ensuring facial recognition works effectively.

Can I mount my Arlo camera too high for reliable motion detection?

Yes, mounting an Arlo camera too high (above 12 feet) can reduce motion detection accuracy, especially for people walking nearby. Stick to the recommended 7–10 feet to balance coverage and sensitivity.

What’s the ideal height to mount Arlo cameras for driveway or yard monitoring?

For driveways or yards, mount Arlo cameras 8–9 feet high, angled slightly downward to capture license plates and approaching individuals. This ensures clear footage without blind spots.

Does mounting height affect Arlo camera battery life?

Indirectly—if mounted too low or high, the camera may trigger more false alerts (e.g., from animals or distant movement), draining the battery faster. Proper height (7–10 feet) helps optimize performance.

How high to mount Arlo cameras to avoid glare or weather damage?

Mount Arlo cameras 7–10 feet high under an eave or awning to shield them from direct rain and sun glare. Avoid placing them where bright lights or reflections interfere with the lens.

Can I adjust the Arlo camera angle if it’s mounted at the recommended height?

Yes, even at the recommended height, adjust the angle to cover entry points or high-risk areas. Use the Arlo app’s live view to fine-tune the field of view for maximum coverage.