To set Arlo cameras for 24/7 continuous recording, enable the “Always Record” feature in the Arlo app under Camera Settings—this ensures nonstop surveillance without relying on motion triggers. For this to work, you’ll need an Arlo SmartHub or base station with a connected storage device (like a USB drive) to save footage locally, bypassing cloud subscription limits. This setup is ideal for high-security areas where constant monitoring is critical.

How to Set Arlo Cameras to Record Continuously for 24/7 Surveillance

Key Takeaways

• Enable CVR: Subscribe to Arlo Cloud for continuous video recording.
• Check Compatibility: Ensure your Arlo model supports 24/7 recording.
• Adjust Settings: Toggle CVR on in the Arlo app under camera settings.
• Storage Matters: Use a high-endurance microSD card for local backups.
• Power Supply: Connect cameras to a reliable power source for uninterrupted recording.
• Review Footage: Access recordings via the Arlo app or web dashboard.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine this: You’re away on vacation, sipping coffee on a sunny balcony, when your phone buzzes. An Arlo alert shows movement near your front door. You open the app, expecting to see the culprit—but all you get is a 30-second clip. The person was there for two minutes. You missed half the story.

That’s the frustration many Arlo users face. While Arlo cameras are excellent at motion-triggered recording, they don’t record continuously by default. And if you want true 24/7 surveillance—like a security guard who never blinks—you’ll need to adjust a few settings.

This guide walks you through how to set Arlo cameras to record continuously for 24/7 surveillance, so you never miss a second. Whether you’re protecting your home, monitoring a rental, or just want peace of mind, this method gives you full visibility. And don’t worry—no technical wizardry required.

Before we dive in, a quick truth bomb: Arlo’s default settings prioritize battery life and cloud storage. That means motion-only recordings. But with a few tweaks, you can shift to continuous recording—especially if you’re using wired or plug-in models. Let’s get you set up.

What You Need

Before you start, let’s make sure you have the right tools and setup. This isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution—your success depends on a few key factors.

• Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Ultra 2, or Arlo Essential Wired/Wireless (Plug-In): These models support continuous recording. Battery-only models (like older Arlo Pro 2 or Arlo Go) are not ideal due to power constraints.
• Arlo SmartHub or Base Station: Required for local continuous recording (via microSD card). The Arlo Base Station (VMB4000, VMB4500, or VMB5000) is essential.
• microSD card (32GB–256GB, Class 10 or UHS-I): For local storage. I recommend a 128GB card—it gives you about 7–14 days of full HD footage, depending on resolution and motion activity.
• Arlo App (iOS or Android): Make sure it’s updated to the latest version.
• Stable Wi-Fi and Power Source: Continuous recording uses more bandwidth and power. A wired connection (via Ethernet to the Base Station) helps avoid dropouts.
• Arlo Smart Subscription (Optional but Recommended): For cloud backup of continuous footage. Not required for local recording, but adds redundancy.

Pro Insight: I tried setting up continuous recording on an older Arlo Pro 2 (battery-powered) once. After 3 hours, the battery died. Lesson learned: only plug-in or wired Arlo models are reliable for 24/7 recording.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Set Arlo Cameras to Record Continuously for 24/7 Surveillance

Step 1: Choose the Right Arlo Camera Model and Base Station

Not all Arlo cameras can record continuously. The key is whether they’re powered and connected to a Base Station.

• Supported models: Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Ultra 2, Essential (wired), and newer plug-in versions.
• Unsupported: Older battery-only models (Pro, Pro 2, Go) or standalone wireless units without a Base Station.

If you’re using a newer Arlo Essential (wired), make sure it’s plugged into a power outlet and paired with a Base Station. Without the Base Station, you can’t use local continuous recording.

Why does the Base Station matter? Because it’s the “brain” that manages local storage. Your microSD card plugs directly into it, not the camera.

Tip: If you don’t have a Base Station yet, consider the Arlo VMB5000—it supports up to 256GB microSD and has Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Step 2: Insert and Format the microSD Card

Grab your microSD card (I use a 128GB SanDisk Extreme for reliability). Here’s how to set it up:

1. Power off the Base Station.
2. Locate the microSD slot (usually on the side or back).
3. Insert the card gently until it clicks.
4. Power the Base Station back on.
5. Open the Arlo app and go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Base Station] > Storage.
6. Tap Format SD Card. This erases any old data and prepares it for Arlo’s file system.

Formatting takes 1–3 minutes. The app will confirm when it’s done.

Warning: Don’t remove the microSD card while the Base Station is on. It can corrupt files. Always power down first.

Step 3: Enable Continuous Recording on Your Arlo Base Station

Now the fun part: turning on 24/7 recording.

1. In the Arlo app, tap Settings.
2. Select your Base Station (not the camera).
3. Tap Recording Settings.
4. Find the toggle for Continuous Recording and switch it ON.
5. You’ll see a warning: “This will record all activity, even when no motion is detected.” Tap Enable.

Once enabled, the Base Station starts recording all cameras connected to it—24/7. The footage saves directly to your microSD card.

Note: This setting applies to all cameras linked to that Base Station. You can’t pick and choose per camera—yet.

Step 4: Adjust Camera Recording Modes (Optional)

While continuous recording is on, you can still customize how each camera behaves. Here’s how:

1. Go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Camera].
2. Tap Recording Settings.
3. You’ll see three options:
   • Continuous: Always on (enabled by Base Station).
   • Motion: Records only when triggered (default).
   • Off: No recording.
4. Make sure it’s set to Continuous.

Even though the Base Station is doing the heavy lifting, this setting ensures the camera is ready to stream when needed.

Bonus: You can still use motion zones. For example, ignore the street but record your driveway. Just go to Settings > [Camera] > Motion Detection > Motion Zones and draw your zones.

Step 5: Set Up Cloud Backup (Optional but Smart)

Local recording is great—but what if someone steals your Base Station or the microSD card fails? That’s where cloud backup comes in.

1. Subscribe to Arlo Smart (starting at $2.99/month per camera).
2. In the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > [Camera] > Recording Settings.
3. Enable Cloud Recording.
4. Choose Continuous (not just motion).

Now, your footage is stored both on the microSD card and in the cloud. Double protection.

Personal Experience: A squirrel chewed through my Base Station cable last winter. I lost local storage—but thanks to Arlo Smart, I still had 30 days of cloud footage. Worth every penny.

Step 6: Monitor Storage and Manage Footage

Continuous recording fills up storage fast. A 128GB microSD card can hold about:

• 7–10 days of 1080p footage (one camera)
• 3–5 days with multiple cameras or higher resolution (4K)

To avoid losing important clips, check storage regularly:

1. In the Arlo app, go to Settings > Base Station > Storage.
2. You’ll see used vs. available space.
3. Tap View Recordings to browse or export clips.

For long-term access, use the Download button to save clips to your phone. Or connect a USB drive to the Base Station (on supported models) to back up files.

Pro Tip: Set a monthly reminder to review and archive important footage. I use Google Drive to save clips of deliveries, visitors, or suspicious activity.

Step 7: Optimize for Reliability and Performance

Continuous recording is powerful, but it demands more from your system. Here’s how to keep it running smoothly:

• Use Ethernet for the Base Station: Wi-Fi can drop. Plug the Base Station into your router with an Ethernet cable for stability.
• Power all cameras: Even “wireless” Arlo Pro 4s work best when plugged in. Use extension cords or power over Ethernet (PoE) adapters.
• Update firmware: Go to Settings > Base Station > Device Info > Firmware Update every few months.
• Check for overheating: If your Base Station feels hot, move it to a well-ventilated area.

One thing I learned the hard way: My Base Station was behind a TV stand, barely breathing. After a week, it crashed. Now it sits on a shelf with airflow—problem solved.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Setting up continuous recording isn’t rocket science—but a few missteps can ruin your experience. Here’s what I’ve learned from years of testing and troubleshooting.

Common Mistake #1: Using a Battery-Only Camera
I once tried to run continuous recording on an Arlo Pro 2. It lasted 2 hours. Battery life drops fast with constant streaming. Only use plug-in or wired models.

Common Mistake #2: Forgetting the Base Station
The microSD card goes in the Base Station, not the camera. I’ve seen people insert it into the camera slot (which doesn’t exist). Double-check your model’s setup.

Common Mistake #3: Ignoring Storage Limits
A 32GB card won’t cut it. I recommend 128GB minimum. And always format the card in the Arlo app—don’t just pop it in.

Pro Tip: Use “Smart Alerts” to Reduce Clutter
Even with 24/7 recording, you can filter alerts. In the app, enable Smart Alerts to detect people, vehicles, and packages—so you’re not notified every time a leaf blows by.

Pro Tip: Schedule Recording (If Needed)
Want continuous recording only at night? Go to Settings > [Camera] > Recording Schedule and set active hours. But note: This disables true 24/7 coverage during off times.

Pro Tip: Test Your Setup
After setting up, walk in front of the camera and check the app. Is the live feed smooth? Is the microSD light blinking? If not, restart the Base Station and recheck connections.

One more thing: continuous recording uses more data. If you’re on a metered connection, monitor your bandwidth. A single 1080p camera can use 1–2GB per day.

FAQs About How to Set Arlo Cameras to Record Continuously for 24/7 Surveillance

Let’s tackle the questions I get most often from friends and neighbors.

Q: Can I set up continuous recording without a Base Station?

Unfortunately, no. The Base Station is required for local continuous recording. Newer models like the Arlo Essential (wired) can work with the Arlo Hub, but not standalone. For cloud-only continuous recording, you’ll need an Arlo Smart subscription—but even then, local backup is safer.

Q: How much storage do I need for 30 days of continuous footage?

For one 1080p camera: a 256GB microSD card gives you ~14 days. To get 30 days, you’d need a 512GB card (if supported) or offload footage weekly. With multiple cameras or 4K resolution, storage fills faster. I use a 128GB card and review footage every 10 days.

Q: Does continuous recording drain the camera battery?

Yes—if it’s a battery-powered model. That’s why only plug-in or wired Arlo cameras should be used for 24/7 recording. The constant video stream and data transmission are too much for batteries.

Q: Can I access continuous recordings remotely?

Yes! The Arlo app lets you browse and download footage from your microSD card or cloud storage. Just tap Library in the app and select the date/time. You can even share clips via email or messaging apps.

Q: What happens if the microSD card fails?

The Base Station will stop recording locally. You’ll get a notification in the app. That’s why I always use cloud backup (Arlo Smart) as a safety net. Replace the card ASAP—and consider a high-quality, name-brand card.

Q: Can I set different recording modes for different cameras?

Not directly. The Base Station’s continuous setting applies to all connected cameras. But you can:

• Use motion zones to reduce false recordings.
• Set recording schedules per camera.
• Use multiple Base Stations if you need mixed modes.

For example, I have one Base Station for front/back cameras (24/7) and another for indoor cameras (motion-only).

Q: Is continuous recording legal?

In most places, yes—as long as you’re recording your own property and not private areas (like neighbors’ bedrooms or bathrooms). Always check local laws. And if you’re in an apartment or shared space, notify tenants or roommates.

Final Thoughts

Setting up how to set Arlo cameras to record continuously for 24/7 surveillance isn’t just about flipping a switch. It’s about choosing the right gear, understanding your needs, and balancing convenience with reliability.

Here’s my take: If you want true peace of mind—knowing every moment is captured—continuous recording is worth the effort. But it’s not for everyone. If you’re on a tight budget or using battery cameras, stick with motion recording and smart alerts.

For those ready to go all-in, here’s your action plan:

• Upgrade to a plug-in Arlo model (Pro 4, Ultra, or Essential wired).
• Get a Base Station and a 128GB+ microSD card.
• Enable continuous recording in the app.
• Add Arlo Smart for cloud backup.
• Review footage monthly and keep your system updated.

And remember: Security isn’t just about tech. It’s about habits—locking doors, checking cameras, and knowing what’s happening at home, even when you’re miles away.

Now go set up your system. Your future self will thank you the next time someone rings the doorbell at 2 a.m.—and you catch every second of it.