You can record Arlo camera footage without a subscription by using local storage options like a microSD card or a USB drive connected to an Arlo SmartHub or base station. This method ensures continuous, cost-free recording with no monthly fees, giving you full control over your video data. With simple setup and reliable access to stored clips, local recording is a powerful alternative for budget-savvy users who want full functionality without relying on cloud services.

How to Record Arlo Camera Without Subscription: A Complete Guide

Key Takeaways

• Use local storage: Insert a microSD card to record footage directly without a subscription.
• Leverage base stations: Connect Arlo to a base station for free local recording options.
• Enable motion detection: Set up alerts to trigger recordings only when needed.
• Access via Arlo app: View and manage local recordings remotely through the app.
• Skip cloud storage: Disable cloud uploads to avoid subscription fees entirely.
• Check camera compatibility: Verify if your Arlo model supports local storage before setup.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest—smart home security is awesome, but the subscription fees? Not so much.

I bought my first Arlo camera with excitement. Crisp HD video, motion detection, two-way audio—it had everything. Then came the email: “Your free trial ends in 7 days.” Suddenly, my peace of mind came with a $10/month price tag.

Sound familiar?

You’re not alone. Many users search for how to record Arlo camera without subscription because they want to keep their footage without ongoing costs. Maybe you just want local storage, or perhaps you’re building a DIY security system. Either way, you’re here because you want control—not recurring bills.

The good news? Yes, you can record Arlo cameras without a subscription. But it’s not as simple as hitting “record” and walking away. You’ll need the right setup, a bit of patience, and a clear plan.

This guide walks you through every option—local, cloud-free, and hybrid—so you can choose what works best for your home. Whether you’re using an old phone, a microSD card, or a network video recorder (NVR), we’ll cover it all.

By the end, you’ll know how to record Arlo camera without subscription in a way that’s reliable, secure, and actually practical for daily life.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s talk tools. You don’t need to be a tech wizard, but you will need a few key things depending on your chosen method.

Option 1: Local Storage (MicroSD Card)

• Arlo camera with microSD slot: Only certain models support this (e.g., Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S, Ultra, and newer).
• microSD card (32GB–256GB): Get a high-endurance card (like SanDisk High Endurance) for 24/7 recording.
• microSD card reader: To view footage on your computer or phone.
• Arlo app (free): Still needed for setup and camera management—no subscription required.

Option 2: Arlo Base Station (NVR-style Recording)

• Arlo Base Station (VMB4000, VMB4540, VMB5000, or newer): This is the hub that connects to your router.
• USB drive (32GB–2TB): Plug into the base station for local video storage.
• Compatible Arlo cameras: Most Pro and Ultra models work with base stations.
• Arlo app: Again, free to use for setup and playback.

Option 3: Third-Party NVR / Smart Home Hub

• RTSP-enabled Arlo camera: Only select models (Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S, Ultra) support RTSP streaming.
• RTSP firmware: You’ll need to enable this in the app (more on that later).
• Home Assistant, Blue Iris, or Synology Surveillance Station: These platforms can pull RTSP streams and record locally.
• Computer or NAS device: To run your NVR software.

Option 4: DIY Mobile Device Recording

• Old smartphone or tablet (Android/iOS): Set up near the camera.
• Recording app (e.g., IP Webcam, Alfred Camera): Turns your phone into a monitor.
• Wi-Fi connection: Stable and close to the camera.
• Power source: Keep the device plugged in.

Pro Tip: Start with the simplest method that fits your gear. If you already have a base station, use it! If you have a spare phone, try mobile recording first. No need to overcomplicate things.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Record Arlo Camera Without Subscription: A Complete Guide

Step 1: Check Your Arlo Camera Model & Features

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal. Some support microSD, some work with base stations, and a few even allow RTSP streaming.

Here’s how to check:

• Open the Arlo app → tap your camera → Settings (gear icon).
• Look for “Storage” or “Video Recording” options.
• If you see “Local Storage” or “USB Storage,” you’re in luck.

Models with microSD: Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S, Ultra, Essential Wired (indoor), and newer.

Models with base station support: Most Pro and Ultra models (check compatibility on Arlo’s website).

RTSP support: Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S, Ultra (must be enabled manually).

Warning: If your camera is older than 2020 and doesn’t have a microSD slot, you’ll likely need a base station or third-party workaround. Don’t assume all Arlo cameras can record locally—check first!

Step 2: Set Up Local Storage with microSD (Simplest Method)

This is the easiest way to record without a subscription, if your camera supports it.

Here’s how:

1. Insert the microSD card.

• Power off the camera (remove battery or unplug).
• Open the microSD slot (usually on the side or bottom).
• Insert a high-endurance microSD card (32GB minimum, 128GB+ recommended).
• Reassemble and power on.

2. Format the card in the Arlo app.

• Open the Arlo app → tap your camera → Settings.
• Go to Storage → Local Storage.
• Tap Format. This erases any data and sets it up for Arlo.

3. Enable continuous or event-based recording.

• In Storage, toggle Record Locally to ON.
• Choose Event Recording (only when motion is detected) or Continuous Recording (24/7).
• Event recording saves space. Continuous gives full coverage (but eats storage fast).

4. Set motion zones and sensitivity.

• Go to Motion Detection → Motion Zones.
• Draw zones where you want alerts (e.g., front door, driveway).
• Adjust sensitivity to avoid false alarms (e.g., trees, pets).

5. View and download footage.

• Tap your camera → Library → Local Storage.
• You’ll see clips labeled “Local.”
• To save: tap a clip → Download → choose phone or cloud (optional).
• To view on a computer: remove the microSD card → insert into reader → open with VLC or File Explorer.

Pro Tip: Use a 128GB high-endurance card. It can handle 7–10 days of continuous HD recording. For event-only, it’ll last weeks.

Step 3: Use an Arlo Base Station for USB Recording

If you have a base station (or buy one), you can record to a USB drive—no subscription needed.

Why this works: The base station acts like a mini NVR, storing footage on a USB drive plugged into it.

Steps:

1. Connect the base station to your router.

• Plug the base station into power.
• Connect it to your router using an Ethernet cable (required).
• Wait for the light to turn solid green (usually 1–2 minutes).

2. Pair your camera to the base station.

• Open the Arlo app → tap “Add Device.”
• Select your camera model → follow on-screen instructions.
• Press the sync button on the base station when prompted.
• Your camera should appear in the app.

3. Insert a USB drive.

• Use a USB 3.0 drive (32GB–2TB). Format it as FAT32 or exFAT.
• Plug it into the USB port on the base station.
• The base station will auto-format it (this may take a few minutes).

4. Enable USB recording in the app.

• Go to Settings → Base Station → Storage.
• Toggle USB Recording to ON.
• Choose Event or Continuous mode.

5. Manage and access footage.

• View clips in the Library tab → filter by “USB.”
• Download clips to your phone or remove the USB drive to view on a computer.
• The base station auto-deletes old footage when full (FIFO—first in, first out).

Warning: The base station must be connected to Ethernet. Wi-Fi won’t work. Also, if the power goes out, the base station won’t record. Use a UPS if you’re serious about uptime.

Step 4: Enable RTSP for Third-Party NVR Recording

This is for tech-savvy users who want full control. RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol) lets you pull the camera’s live feed into software like Home Assistant, Blue Iris, or Synology Surveillance Station.

Only works with: Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S, Ultra (and newer models with RTSP firmware).

Steps:

1. Enable RTSP in the Arlo app.

• Open the Arlo app → tap your camera → Settings.
• Go to Video Settings → Advanced → RTSP.
• Toggle RTSP to ON.
• Note the RTSP URL (it looks like: rtsp://arlo:[password]@[IP]:554/stream1).

2. Find your camera’s IP address.

• Check your router’s admin panel (look for “Connected Devices”).
• Find the device named “Arlo” or with the camera’s MAC address.
• Note the IP (e.g., 192.168.1.105).

3. Set up your NVR software.

• Home Assistant: Use the FFmpeg integration. Add the RTSP URL to configuration.yaml.
• Blue Iris: Add a camera → select “Network Camera” → paste the RTSP URL.
• Synology Surveillance Station: Add camera → “Generic IP Camera” → enter RTSP URL.

4. Configure recording and motion detection.

• Set recording to “Continuous” or “On Motion.”
• Adjust motion sensitivity in the NVR (more reliable than Arlo’s built-in).
• Set up alerts (email, push, sound).

5. Store footage locally.

• Footage saves to your computer, NAS, or external drive.
• You control retention—keep 7 days, 30 days, or longer.

Pro Tip: Use a static IP for your Arlo camera (via your router) so the RTSP URL doesn’t change. Also, enable two-factor authentication on your Arlo account—RTSP exposes your feed, so security matters.

Step 5: DIY Recording with an Old Phone or Tablet

No base station? No RTSP? No problem.

Turn an old phone into a monitor and recorder. This works with any Wi-Fi camera, including Arlo.

Steps:

1. Install a camera viewer app.

• Alfred Camera: Free, user-friendly, supports Arlo, Ring, etc.
• IP Webcam (Android): Turns your phone into an IP camera (reverse setup).
• CameraFi (iOS/Android): Streams to cloud or local storage.

2. Set up the phone near the camera.

• Place it on a shelf or mount it securely.
• Plug it into a power outlet (never rely on battery).
• Connect to the same Wi-Fi network as your Arlo camera.

3. Connect to your Arlo feed.

• In Alfred, tap “+” → “Add Camera” → “Arlo.”
• Log in with your Arlo account (no subscription needed).
• Select the camera you want to monitor.

4. Enable recording.

• In Alfred, tap the camera → Record → choose “Event” or “Continuous.”
• Footage saves to the phone’s internal storage or SD card.
• You can also set up cloud backup (optional, free tier available).

5. Access and manage clips.

• Open the app → Library → view, download, or share clips.
• Set up motion alerts on the phone (push notifications).

Warning: This method uses more Wi-Fi bandwidth. If your network is slow, you might see lag or dropped frames. Also, keep the phone cool—overheating can cause crashes.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After testing all these methods, here’s what I’ve learned the hard way:

1. Don’t Rely on Cloud-Only Features

Arlo’s AI detection (person, package, vehicle) requires a subscription. Without it, you’ll get generic “motion detected” alerts. Use motion zones and custom sensitivity to reduce false alarms.

2. Format Your Storage Properly

Never use a microSD or USB drive without formatting it in the Arlo app or base station. Arlo uses a special file system. If you format it elsewhere, it won’t work.

3. Monitor Storage Space

Local storage fills up fast. A 128GB card holds about 7 days of continuous 1080p recording. Check your storage weekly. Delete old clips or upgrade to a larger drive.

4. Protect Against Power Outages

If you’re using a base station or NVR, get a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply). A 10-minute outage can erase hours of footage.

5. Secure Your RTSP Stream

RTSP streams are unencrypted by default. If you’re using a third-party NVR, change the Arlo camera’s password and enable two-factor auth. Avoid exposing the RTSP URL publicly.

6. Test Before You Depend

Set up your system and test it for 48 hours. Check if recordings save, if alerts work, and if the feed stays stable. Don’t wait until a break-in to realize your camera wasn’t recording.

7. Use Multiple Methods for Redundancy

Want extra peace of mind? Combine methods. For example:

• microSD card for daily recording
• USB base station as backup
• RTSP stream to a NAS for long-term storage

Pro Insight: I once relied only on a microSD card. Then the card failed after 3 months. Now I use a base station with USB and a spare microSD. Redundancy saved me during a recent storm.

FAQs About How to Record Arlo Camera Without Subscription: A Complete Guide

1. Can I record Arlo cameras without any monthly fee?

Yes! As long as your camera supports local storage (microSD or base station), you can record without a subscription. The Arlo app is free to use for setup and playback. You only pay if you want cloud storage or AI features.

2. Does Arlo delete local footage automatically?

It depends. If you use event recording, clips stay until you delete them. With continuous recording, the camera or base station overwrites the oldest footage when storage is full (like a loop).

3. Can I use a regular microSD card?

You can, but I don’t recommend it. Regular cards aren’t built for constant writing. Get a high-endurance card (e.g., SanDisk High Endurance, Samsung PRO Endurance). They last 3–5 years with 24/7 use.

4. What if my camera doesn’t have a microSD slot?

Your options are:

• Buy an Arlo base station (if compatible).
• Upgrade to a camera with local storage (e.g., Pro 4).
• Use RTSP (if supported) with a third-party NVR.
• Set up a mobile device as a recorder (DIY method).

5. Is RTSP recording secure?

RTSP itself isn’t encrypted, but you can secure it. Change your Arlo camera’s password, enable two-factor authentication, and keep the RTSP URL private. If you’re using a home NVR, your data stays on your network—no cloud exposure.

6. Can I view local recordings remotely?

Yes. As long as your phone has internet, you can open the Arlo app and view footage from your microSD or USB drive. No subscription needed. Just tap “Library” → “Local Storage.”

7. What’s the best method for long-term storage?

For long-term, I recommend RTSP + NAS (e.g., Synology). You can store months of footage and set up automated backups. A base station with USB is good for 2–4 weeks. microSD is best for short-term or event-only.

Final Thoughts

Recording Arlo cameras without a subscription isn’t just possible—it’s practical and affordable.

You don’t need to pay monthly to protect your home. Whether you use a $15 microSD card, a spare phone, or a base station, you can keep your footage local and your wallet happy.

My advice? Start simple. If you have a microSD-capable camera, try that first. It’s plug-and-play. If you need more storage or reliability, add a base station or explore RTSP.

And remember: the best security system is the one you actually use. Set it up, test it, and check it regularly. Don’t let complexity scare you away.

Now that you know how to record Arlo camera without subscription, take action. Pick one method, set it up this weekend, and enjoy peace of mind—without the monthly bill.

You’ve got this.