Extend your Arlo camera’s video length in 2026 by adjusting motion detection settings and upgrading to a premium cloud plan with longer recording durations. Enable “Continuous Video Recording” (CVR) for 24/7 footage or fine-tune motion zones to reduce false triggers and maximize storage efficiency. For optimal results, pair these features with a high-capacity microSD card to ensure uninterrupted, extended recordings.

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How to Make Video Longer on Arlo Camera in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Adjust recording settings: Extend clip length via Arlo app’s “Video Settings” menu.
• Enable motion zones: Reduce false triggers to maximize storage for longer videos.
• Upgrade subscription plan: Higher tiers offer longer cloud storage retention periods.
• Use local storage: Insert a microSD card for extended recording without overwriting.
• Optimize motion sensitivity: Lower sensitivity to avoid short, fragmented clips.
• Schedule recordings: Set continuous recording times to capture more footage.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

You’ve just installed your Arlo camera—maybe to keep an eye on your front porch, backyard, or even your pet while you’re away. It works great… until you notice the videos are only 10 seconds long. That’s barely enough time to see who rang the doorbell, let alone catch a full event.

This is a common frustration. In 2026, Arlo cameras still cap default video clips at 10–30 seconds, depending on your plan. But here’s the good news: you can make video longer on Arlo camera in 2026 with a few smart tweaks—no tech wizardry required.

Whether you’re trying to capture a delivery, a suspicious visitor, or just your kid’s first bike ride without training wheels, longer videos mean better context. And honestly? It’s not just about length. It’s about peace of mind.

I learned this the hard way. A few months ago, I missed a package theft because the video ended right as the person turned away. I could see the package, but not the face. That’s when I dug deep into Arlo’s settings, tested every option, and found real ways to extend recording time—without buying a new camera.

This guide is what I wish I had back then. It’s practical, tested, and focused on how to make video longer on Arlo camera in 2026 using tools you already own.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s cover the basics. You don’t need to be a coder or spend extra money. Most of what you need is already in your Arlo app or account.

• An Arlo camera (any model: Pro, Pro 2, Pro 3, Ultra, Essential, etc.)
• The Arlo Secure App (download it if you haven’t already—iOS or Android)
• A stable Wi-Fi connection (at least 2 Mbps upload speed for smooth streaming)
• An Arlo Secure plan (optional but recommended) – Free plan has limitations; paid plans unlock longer clips
• A smartphone or tablet – for app access and adjustments
• Your Arlo account login – make sure you know your password!

Pro tip: If you’re using multiple cameras, update them one at a time. It’s easier to track changes and avoid confusion.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Make Video Longer on Arlo Camera in 2026

Step 1: Check Your Arlo Secure Plan

Let’s be real: the biggest factor in how long your videos are isn’t your camera—it’s your subscription plan.

Arlo offers three tiers:

• Free (No Plan): 30-day rolling cloud storage, but videos max out at 10 seconds.
• Arlo Secure (Basic Plan): $2.99/month per camera. Gets you up to 30 seconds of video.
• Arlo Secure Plus (Premium Plan): $9.99/month for up to 10 cameras. Offers up to 120 seconds (2 minutes) of video per clip.

So, if you’re still on the free plan, that’s why your videos are short. Upgrading is the fastest way to make video longer on Arlo camera in 2026.

How to upgrade:

1. Open the Arlo app.
2. Tap Account (bottom right).
3. Go to Arlo Secure Plans.
4. Select your preferred plan and follow the prompts.

Warning: Don’t rush into the Plus plan unless you have multiple cameras. The Basic plan often gives you enough extra time for daily use. Test it first!

Step 2: Adjust Your Camera’s Recording Mode

Even with a good plan, your camera might not record the full length due to its default mode. Arlo has two main recording styles:

• Instant Recording: Starts when motion is detected. Stops after the clip duration (10–120 sec).
• Continuous Recording: Records non-stop (if supported by your camera and plan). Saves clips only when motion is detected, but the context includes footage before and after.

For longer context, Continuous Recording is your friend. It doesn’t make the clip longer in seconds, but it adds pre- and post-roll—extra footage before and after motion.

How to enable it:

1. Open the Arlo app.
2. Tap your camera’s thumbnail.
3. Go to Settings > Video Settings > Recording Mode.
4. Choose Continuous Recording.

Note: This feature is only available on Arlo Pro 3, Ultra, and newer models. It also requires an Arlo Secure plan. But if you have it, it’s a game-changer.

For example: A delivery person walks up at 10:05 AM. With Continuous Recording, you might see them approach at 10:04:30, ring the bell at 10:05:10, and leave at 10:05:45. That’s 75 seconds of context in a 30-second clip.

Step 3: Increase Pre- and Post-Roll Duration

Pre-roll is the footage before motion is detected. Post-roll is the footage after. These aren’t part of the main clip, but they’re saved with it—and they make the story longer.

By default, Arlo sets pre-roll at 5 seconds and post-roll at 5 seconds. You can extend these to 10 seconds each on supported plans and cameras.

How to adjust:

1. In the camera settings, go to Video Settings > Pre/Post Roll.
2. Slide both pre-roll and post-roll to 10 seconds.
3. Save changes.

This won’t make your main clip longer, but it adds up. Now your 30-second video has 10 seconds before and 10 seconds after—total 50 seconds of useful footage.

Pro Tip: If you’re recording near a busy street, longer pre-roll helps catch people walking into the frame. Post-roll helps confirm they left.

Step 4: Optimize Motion Sensitivity and Zones

Here’s a sneaky issue: if your camera detects motion too early or too late, it might cut off the action.

For example: You set sensitivity to “High.” A leaf blows by at 10:00:05. The camera starts recording. But the real event—a person walking up—starts at 10:00:10. Now your clip starts with a leaf and ends just as they reach the door.

To fix this, fine-tune motion sensitivity and create activity zones.

How to do it:

1. Go to Settings > Motion Detection.
2. Lower sensitivity to “Medium” or “Low” if your area has lots of small triggers (trees, animals).
3. Tap Activity Zones.
4. Draw zones where you want motion detection (e.g., driveway, front door).
5. Leave out areas you don’t care about (street, neighbor’s yard).

This ensures the camera starts recording only when someone enters your zone, giving you a cleaner, longer-relevant clip.

Bonus: Fewer false alerts mean your camera isn’t constantly recording, which helps it capture longer clips during real events.

Step 5: Use Local Storage (MicroSD Card) for Extended Footage

Not everyone knows this: many Arlo cameras support microSD cards for local storage. This is a huge win for longer videos.

Why? Because local storage isn’t bound by cloud plan limits. You can record continuously or set longer event clips—even on the free plan.

Supported models: Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Essential, and newer.

How to set it up:

1. Insert a microSD card (Class 10, 32GB–256GB) into the camera or base station.
2. In the Arlo app, go to Settings > Storage > Local Storage.
3. Format the card (this erases everything, so back up first).
4. Enable Continuous Recording or Event Recording.

For longer clips, choose Event Recording and set the clip duration to maximum (up to 120 seconds)—even if you’re on the free plan.

You can also enable Pre-Roll for Local Storage (up to 10 seconds). This means every motion event includes footage before it happened—stored locally.

Warning: Local storage isn’t backed up to the cloud. If your camera is stolen or damaged, you lose the footage. Use this as a supplement, not a replacement, to cloud storage.

Step 6: Enable Smart Alerts and AI Detection (If Available)

Arlo’s AI features—like person, package, vehicle, and animal detection—can help you get longer, more relevant videos.

How? By filtering out false triggers. If your camera only records when it sees a person, not a squirrel, you’re more likely to get full clips of real events.

How to enable:

1. Go to Settings > Smart Alerts.
2. Turn on Person Detection, Package Detection, or Vehicle Detection.
3. Set sensitivity to High for better accuracy.

Now, your camera won’t record every leaf or shadow. It waits for a person—and when it does, it records the full clip length (based on your plan).

Bonus: Smart alerts often include a thumbnail preview in the app, so you know exactly what triggered the video—no more guessing.

Step 7: Schedule Recording Times (For Predictable Events)

Sometimes you know when events will happen. Like deliveries between 10 AM–2 PM, or kids coming home from school at 3 PM.

Use Scheduling to keep your camera in Continuous or Event Recording mode during those times—maximizing your chance of longer, uninterrupted footage.

How to set it:

1. Go to Settings > Schedule.
2. Tap Add Schedule.
3. Choose days and times (e.g., Mon–Fri, 10 AM–2 PM).
4. Set mode to Continuous Recording or Event Recording.
5. Save.

Outside those times, the camera can go to Armed mode (motion-only), saving battery and storage.

This is perfect for how to make video longer on Arlo camera in 2026 during high-traffic hours—without draining resources all day.

Step 8: Update Firmware and App Regularly

Arlo releases updates that improve recording logic, battery life, and video length options. An outdated app or camera might be stuck with older limits.

How to check:

1. In the Arlo app, go to Settings > Camera > Firmware.
2. If an update is available, install it.
3. Also update the Arlo app from your device’s app store.

One user reported their clip length increased from 30 to 60 seconds after a firmware update—without changing their plan.

Don’t skip this step. It’s free, easy, and could unlock longer videos.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After testing these methods for months, here’s what I wish I knew earlier:

• Don’t rely only on the free plan. The 10-second limit is brutal. Even the $2.99 Basic plan is worth it for longer clips.
• Test your settings. Set up a dummy event (e.g., wave at the camera) and check the video length. Adjust as needed.
• Wi-Fi matters. A weak signal can cause the camera to cut off early. Place your base station near the router or use a Wi-Fi extender.
• Battery life affects recording. Low battery? The camera might shorten clips to save power. Keep it charged or use a solar panel.
• Don’t ignore local storage. A $15 microSD card can double your useful footage—especially if you’re on a budget.
• Use multiple methods together. Combine a paid plan + local storage + activity zones + smart alerts for the best results.

Personal Insight: I once thought “more storage” meant buying a new camera. Then I added a 128GB microSD card. My videos got longer, and I saved $200. Lesson learned.

FAQs About How to Make Video Longer on Arlo Camera in 2026

Can I make videos longer than 120 seconds?

Not with standard Arlo cloud plans. The max is 120 seconds (2 minutes) with Arlo Secure Plus. But with local storage + Continuous Recording, you can record for hours—just not as “events.” You’d need to manually review the timeline.

Will longer videos use more data?

Yes, but not as much as you think. A 2-minute HD video uses about 15–20 MB. With a 100 Mbps internet connection, that’s a drop in the bucket. Local storage avoids cloud uploads entirely.

Does this work on all Arlo cameras?

Mostly yes, but features vary. Older models (Arlo Q, original Pro) have shorter max clips and fewer AI features. Check your model’s specs in the Arlo app under Settings > Camera.

What if I don’t want to pay for a plan?

You can still make video longer on Arlo camera in 2026 using local storage. Insert a microSD card, enable Event Recording, and set the clip length to max (usually 60–120 seconds). No subscription needed.

Can I extend the pre-roll beyond 10 seconds?

No—10 seconds is the max Arlo allows, even on premium plans. But with Continuous Recording, the camera is always rolling, so you’ll get context even if the official pre-roll is short.

Why does my video end mid-action?

Common causes: low battery, poor Wi-Fi, motion ending too quickly, or the camera detecting “no more motion” and cutting off. Try increasing post-roll, improving signal, or using Continuous Recording.

Is there a way to record 24/7?

Only with local storage + Continuous Recording. Cloud plans don’t support 24/7 recording. But beware: a 32GB card holds about 24 hours of HD video. You’ll need to review footage manually.

Final Thoughts

Making video longer on Arlo camera in 2026 isn’t about hacking the system—it’s about using what’s already there.

Start with your plan. Upgrade if needed. Then tweak settings: recording mode, pre/post-roll, activity zones, and local storage. Add smart alerts and scheduling to fine-tune it all.

You don’t need a new camera. You don’t need to spend a fortune. Just a few smart changes—and maybe a $10 microSD card—can transform your security footage from “meh” to “gotcha.”

So go ahead. Open your Arlo app. Make one change today. Test it. Then make another. Before you know it, you’ll be capturing full stories—not just snippets.

And the next time someone says, “I saw it on the camera,” you’ll actually be able to see what happened.

That’s how to make video longer on Arlo camera in 2026—and why it’s worth every minute.

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