Fixing night vision on your Arlo camera in 2026 starts with ensuring the infrared (IR) LEDs are clean and unobstructed—dust or debris can drastically reduce visibility. Next, verify the camera’s settings via the Arlo app: enable night vision mode, check for firmware updates, and ensure motion detection is properly calibrated. For persistent issues, power-cycle the camera or reset it to factory defaults to restore optimal performance.

How to Fix Night Vision on Arlo Camera in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Restart your camera: Power cycle to resolve temporary night vision glitches.
• Check IR settings: Ensure infrared mode is enabled in the Arlo app.
• Clean the lens: Wipe away dust or smudges blocking night vision clarity.
• Update firmware: Install the latest software for optimal camera performance.
• Adjust positioning: Avoid obstructions or reflective surfaces near the camera.
• Test in darkness: Confirm night vision works in complete low-light conditions.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

You’re sitting on your couch, sipping coffee, when a shadow flickers across your Arlo camera feed. You lean forward—was that a raccoon or something more concerning? But the image is grainy, washed out, or just plain dark. Sound familiar? Night vision issues on Arlo cameras are more common than you’d think, especially as we move into 2026 with older models still in use and newer firmware updates changing how things work.

Night vision is critical for home security. If your Arlo camera can’t see clearly at night, it defeats the purpose of having a smart security system. Whether it’s a black-and-white feed that looks like a 90s surveillance tape, IR lights that won’t turn on, or the camera switching back to color mode when it shouldn’t, these issues can leave your home vulnerable.

But here’s the good news: you don’t need to be a tech wizard to fix most night vision problems. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to fix night vision on Arlo camera in 2026—step by step, with real-world fixes I’ve tested on my own setup. I’ve spent months troubleshooting Arlo Ultra, Pro 4, Essential, and even older Pro 3 models, so I know what works (and what doesn’t).

From firmware quirks to environmental interference, we’ll cover it all. And don’t worry—no jargon, no fluff. Just clear, practical advice that gets your camera seeing in the dark again.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s make sure you’ve got everything on hand. Most fixes for how to fix night vision on Arlo camera in 2026 don’t require special tools, but having the right gear makes the process smoother.

• Your Arlo camera (obviously) – any model from Essential to Ultra
• Arlo app (updated to the latest version) – available on iOS and Android
• Smartphone or tablet – to access the app and check camera status
• Wi-Fi connection – stable and strong, since firmware updates and syncing need internet
• Soft microfiber cloth – for cleaning the camera lens and IR sensors
• Flashlight or smartphone light – to test night vision response
• Arlo SmartHub or Base Station (if you use one) – some models require it for firmware updates
• Access to your router – for network troubleshooting (optional but helpful)

Pro tip: If you’re using an outdoor Arlo, bring the camera indoors temporarily if possible. It’s easier to troubleshoot in a controlled environment. Just don’t forget to re-mount it later!

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Fix Night Vision on Arlo Camera in 2026

Step 1: Clean the Lens and IR Sensors

Let’s start with the simplest fix—cleaning. Dust, spider webs, or even rain residue can block the IR (infrared) lights and the lens, making night vision look muddy or nonexistent.

I learned this the hard way when my Arlo Pro 4 suddenly went dark one night. I panicked, thinking the IR LEDs had burned out. Turns out, a tiny spider had built a nest right over the sensor. One wipe later, and the night vision was back to crisp black-and-white clarity.

• Turn off the camera or cover it temporarily (so it doesn’t record you cleaning).
• Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe the lens and the ring of IR LEDs around it.
• Don’t use water, alcohol, or harsh chemicals—these can damage the lens coating or fog the glass.
• Check for obstructions: spiderwebs, leaves, or even a bird’s nest nearby.

Warning: If the camera is mounted high, use a ladder safely or a long duster. Don’t risk a fall for a cleaner lens.

After cleaning, test the camera at night. If night vision improves, you’ve solved the problem. If not, move to Step 2.

Step 2: Check and Adjust Night Vision Settings in the Arlo App

Sometimes, the camera’s night vision mode is turned off or set incorrectly. Arlo cameras have multiple night vision modes, and they don’t always default to the best one.

In 2026, Arlo updated its app to include more granular controls. You can now choose between Auto, On, Off, and Color Night Vision (on supported models). Misconfiguring these is a common cause of night vision failure.

• Open the Arlo app and tap on the camera you’re having issues with.
• Go to Device Settings → Video Settings → Night Vision.
• Make sure it’s set to Auto (recommended) or On.
• If you have a newer model (Pro 4, Ultra, or Essential with color night vision), try Color Night Vision mode. It uses ambient light and IR to create a color image at night—much clearer than B&W.
• On older models, avoid Color Night Vision if it’s not supported—it can cause the camera to stay in color mode when it should switch to IR.

My experience: I once had a client whose Arlo Essential was stuck in color mode at night. The image was so dark, they thought the camera was broken. Switching to “On” forced the IR lights to stay on, and suddenly, everything was visible.

After changing the setting, wait 30 seconds and test at night. If the IR lights turn on and the image switches to black-and-white (or color, if enabled), you’re golden.

Step 3: Update Firmware and Sync the Camera

Firmware issues are a sneaky culprit behind night vision problems. Arlo releases updates regularly to fix bugs, improve performance, and patch security issues. If your camera is running outdated firmware, it might not handle night vision correctly.

I’ve seen this with Arlo Ultra models that suddenly stopped switching to night mode after a power outage. A simple firmware update fixed it.

• In the Arlo app, go to Settings → My Devices → select your camera.
• Tap Firmware Update. If an update is available, install it.
• Wait for the update to complete—this can take 5–10 minutes. Do not remove power or disconnect Wi-Fi during this time.
• After updating, re-sync the camera with the SmartHub or Base Station (if used). This ensures all settings are properly applied.

Pro tip: If the update fails, try restarting the SmartHub or Base Station, then retry. Weak Wi-Fi can interrupt firmware downloads.

Once synced, test the camera at night. The update might have fixed a bug that was preventing IR activation or image processing.

Step 4: Test and Adjust Camera Placement

Where you place your Arlo camera has a huge impact on night vision. Reflections, backlighting, or nearby light sources can confuse the camera’s light sensor.

For example, if your camera faces a streetlight or a porch light, it might think it’s still daytime and refuse to switch to night vision. Or, if it’s too close to a reflective surface (like glass or metal), the IR light bounces back, creating a washed-out image.

• Check the camera’s field of view. Is it pointing directly at a bright light source? Reposition it to avoid glare.
• Move the camera 1–2 feet away from walls, windows, or fences if IR reflection is an issue.
• Use the Arlo app’s live view at night to see exactly what the camera sees. Adjust the angle until the image is clear.
• If you’re using a mount, make sure it’s tight and not wobbling. A shaky camera can blur night vision footage.

Real-life example: I helped a friend who had an Arlo Pro 3 mounted under their eaves. The IR lights were reflecting off the roof shingles, making everything look like a bright, blurry mess. We moved it to a side wall, and the image instantly improved.

After adjusting, wait for full darkness and test again. If night vision kicks in and the image is clear, you’ve nailed it.

Step 5: Check Wi-Fi Signal Strength and Network Issues

Yes, Wi-Fi can affect night vision. Arlo cameras rely on a stable connection to process video, especially in low-light conditions. A weak signal can cause lag, buffering, or even prevent the camera from switching modes properly.

In 2026, many Arlo users are on Wi-Fi 6 networks, but older cameras (like Pro 3) may struggle with interference or distance.

• In the Arlo app, go to Device Settings → Network → Wi-Fi Signal Strength.
• If the signal is Low or Unstable, consider:
  • Moving the camera closer to the router or SmartHub.
  • Adding a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network node near the camera.
  • Switching to a 2.4 GHz network (better range) if on 5 GHz.
• Restart your router and the Arlo camera (power cycle both).
• If using a SmartHub, ensure it’s connected to your main router via Ethernet for best performance.

Warning: Never place the SmartHub in a basement or behind thick walls. It needs a strong connection to sync with cameras.

After improving Wi-Fi, test night vision. A stable connection can resolve issues that seem like hardware problems.

Step 6: Test IR LEDs and Replace if Necessary

If you’ve tried everything and the camera still won’t switch to night mode, the IR LEDs might be dead. This is rare but possible, especially on older cameras.

Here’s how to test them:

• Go to a completely dark room (turn off all lights).
• Use your smartphone’s camera (not the screen) to look at the Arlo camera’s front.
• Turn on the Arlo camera (or wait for night mode to activate).
• If the IR LEDs are working, you’ll see red or purple glows around the lens in your phone’s view.
• If you see no glow, the LEDs may be faulty.

Note: Your phone’s camera can see IR light, but your eyes cannot. This is a reliable way to test.

If the LEDs are out, you have two options:

• Contact Arlo Support – if under warranty, they’ll replace the camera.
• Use a third-party IR illuminator – mount a separate IR light (like a floodlight with IR) near the camera. This works well for outdoor setups.

While this is the last resort, it’s a valid fix for how to fix night vision on Arlo camera in 2026, especially if the camera is out of warranty.

Step 7: Reset and Re-Add the Camera (Nuclear Option)

If nothing else works, a full reset might be needed. This wipes all settings and starts fresh—like a factory reset.

I only recommend this after trying all other steps. It’s time-consuming, but it often fixes stubborn issues.

• On the camera, press and hold the Sync button for 10–15 seconds until the LED flashes amber.
• Wait for the camera to restart (LED turns solid white).
• In the Arlo app, remove the camera from your account.
• Re-add it by scanning the QR code on the camera.
• Reconfigure settings (night vision, motion zones, etc.).

Pro tip: Take screenshots of your current settings before resetting. It’ll save you time when reconfiguring.

After re-adding, test night vision. A clean setup can resolve software conflicts that were preventing proper operation.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over the years, I’ve seen (and made) every mistake in the book when troubleshooting Arlo night vision. Here are the top lessons:

• Don’t ignore the basics: 80% of night vision issues are due to dirty lenses or wrong settings. Always start there.
• Test at full darkness: A camera might not switch to night mode at dusk if there’s ambient light. Wait until it’s truly dark.
• Use the app’s diagnostics: The Arlo app has a “Camera Status” screen that shows signal strength, battery, and firmware. Check it regularly.
• Avoid overheating: Arlo cameras can overheat in direct sunlight, which may cause IR LEDs to shut down. Mount them in shaded areas.
• Don’t use third-party mounts: Cheap mounts can block IR sensors or cause the camera to overheat. Stick with Arlo-approved accessories.
• Check for firmware auto-updates: In 2026, Arlo allows you to enable automatic updates. Turn it on to avoid missing critical patches.

Warning: Never spray water or cleaner directly on the camera. Moisture can damage internal components. Wipe gently with a dry cloth.

And one final insight: Arlo’s night vision has improved dramatically in 2026, especially with color night vision on newer models. If you’re using a 5+ year old camera, consider upgrading. But if you’re not ready to spend, the fixes above will keep your current setup running strong.

FAQs About How to Fix Night Vision on Arlo Camera in 2026

Here are the most common questions I get—answered honestly and clearly.

Q: Why does my Arlo camera stay in color mode at night?
A: This usually means the night vision setting is set to “Color” (on supported models) or the camera isn’t detecting enough darkness. Go to Night Vision settings and switch to “Auto” or “On.” Also, check if a nearby light is tricking the sensor.

Q: My Arlo camera shows a black screen at night. What’s wrong?
A: First, clean the lens and IR sensors. If that doesn’t help, check if the IR LEDs are working (use your phone’s camera to see the red glow). If no glow, the LEDs may be dead. Try a reset or contact Arlo support.

Q: Does Wi-Fi really affect night vision?
A: Yes! A weak signal can cause the camera to lag or fail to process night vision data. Ensure your camera has a strong connection to the router or SmartHub. Use the app to check signal strength.

Q: Can I use a separate IR light with my Arlo camera?
A: Absolutely. A standalone IR floodlight (like the Arlo Smart Floodlight) can boost night vision, especially in large areas. Just mount it nearby and point it in the same direction as the camera.

Q: My Arlo Pro 3 won’t update firmware. What should I do?
A: Make sure the SmartHub is connected via Ethernet, not Wi-Fi. Weak Wi-Fi can interrupt updates. Also, ensure the camera is fully charged or plugged in. If it still fails, try resetting the SmartHub.

Q: Is color night vision better than black-and-white?
A: It depends. Color night vision (on newer models) gives more detail but requires some ambient light. In total darkness, black-and-white with IR is often sharper. For how to fix night vision on Arlo camera in 2026, I recommend using color mode if your camera supports it and there’s minimal light.

Q: How often should I clean my Arlo camera?
A: Every 2–3 months, or more often if it’s in a dusty or rainy area. A quick wipe keeps night vision sharp and prevents false motion alerts from dirt.

Final Thoughts

Fixing night vision on your Arlo camera isn’t rocket science—but it does require patience and a methodical approach. By following the steps in this guide, you’ve addressed the most common causes, from dirty lenses to firmware bugs.

Remember: start simple. Clean the camera, check the settings, and test at full darkness. Most issues are solved within minutes, not hours.

And if you’re still struggling? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Arlo support. They’ve improved their customer service in 2026, and many night vision issues are covered under warranty.

Your home’s safety depends on clear, reliable night vision. With these tips, you’re not just fixing a camera—you’re restoring peace of mind. Now go enjoy that cup of coffee, knowing your Arlo’s got your back—day or night.

Stay safe, stay sharp.