Wondering if Arlo requires a subscription? The short answer is no, but it depends on what features you need. Arlo cameras can function without a subscription, offering basic features like live streaming and motion alerts.
However, for advanced services like cloud storage, 24/7 recording, and smart notifications, you’ll need an Arlo Secure plan. Subscriptions unlock the full potential of your Arlo camera.
If you’re aiming for enhanced security, it might be worth considering. Not sure which plan suits you?
Let’s explore what Arlo offers with and without a subscription, so you can make the right choice for your home security needs.
Table of Contents
How Does Arlo Require a Subscription?
Arlo security cameras provide flexible options for home security, allowing users to choose between basic features and advanced subscription-based services.
While some features are accessible without a subscription, opting for a plan unlocks more functionalities that enhance your security setup.
Live Streaming Without Subscription
Arlo cameras allow you to live stream video footage from your devices without needing a subscription. This feature is ideal for monitoring your home in real-time through the Arlo app, ensuring a basic level of surveillance without additional costs.
Cloud Storage and Recording Options
Cloud storage is one of the main features that requires an Arlo subscription. It enables users to save and review video recordings for up to 30 days, making it easier to access past footage for evidence or analysis.
Advanced Object Detection Capabilities
With a subscription, Arlo cameras can distinguish between different types of movement, such as people, animals, and vehicles. This advanced object detection minimizes false alerts, offering more accurate security notifications.
Customizable Activity Zones
Arlo’s paid plans include the ability to set custom activity zones. These zones focus the camera’s attention on specific areas within its view, ensuring you only receive alerts for movement in those areas, which reduces unnecessary notifications.
Enhanced Video Quality and Resolution
Subscribing to Arlo’s service often unlocks higher video quality, such as 2K or 4K resolution. This results in sharper, more detailed recordings, which can be crucial for identifying people, objects, or incidents in surveillance footage.
Priority Emergency Response and Support
Arlo’s premium subscription includes access to priority support and emergency response services. In case of an incident, users can contact emergency services through the Arlo app, and receive faster responses, making it ideal for those who prioritize safety.
Sharing Camera Access with Family Members
Arlo’s subscription plans make it easy to share access to live footage and recorded videos with family members. This feature allows multiple users to monitor the security cameras, ensuring a collaborative approach to home safety.
Can I Still Use Arlo Without a Subscription?
Yes, you can use Arlo without a subscription, but with limited features. Without a subscription, Arlo cameras offer basic functionalities like live video streaming and motion alerts.
You can access video recordings stored locally using an Arlo SmartHub or base station, which allows you to store footage on an SD card. However, advanced features like cloud storage, 24/7 recording, and enhanced motion detection are only available through an Arlo Secure plan.
If you prefer local storage and don’t need extra features, Arlo cameras can still provide reliable home security without the need for a subscription.
How To Record Arlo Without Subscription
You can record footage on Arlo without a subscription by using local storage options. This allows you to save videos directly on an SD card through the Arlo base station or SmartHub. Follow these simple steps to set it up:
- Set Up Arlo Base Station: Connect the base station to your Wi-Fi router for local storage capabilities.
- Insert SD Card: Place a microSD card into the Arlo SmartHub or base station for video storage.
- Access Arlo App: Open the Arlo app and navigate to the settings menu.
- Enable Local Storage: Turn on the local storage option under “Storage Settings.”
- Position Your Arlo Camera: Place the camera in your desired location for monitoring.
- Activate Motion Detection: Enable motion detection to trigger automatic video recording.
- View Recorded Footage: Access and playback videos from the SD card through the Arlo app.
What Are Arlo Subscription Plans
Arlo offers a range of subscription plans to enhance your home security experience. These plans unlock advanced features like cloud storage, 24/7 monitoring, and enhanced video quality.
Here’s a quick overview of Arlo’s subscription plans:
- Arlo Secure: Provides 30 days of cloud storage, smart notifications, and advanced object detection.
- Arlo Secure Plus: Includes 4K video recording and emergency response capabilities along with cloud storage.
- Arlo Safe: Offers features like location tracking and safety alerts for mobile devices.
- Multi-Camera Plans: Support multiple Arlo cameras with a single subscription for cost efficiency.
- Annual Subscription Option: Pay annually to save compared to monthly plans.
- Free Trial: Arlo often includes a free trial of their subscription services with new camera purchases.
- No-Subscription Option: Use local storage for basic features without a subscription plan.
How Much Is Arlo Subscription For A Year
The cost of an Arlo subscription for a year varies based on the chosen plan. The Arlo Secure plan starts at around $119.88 per year for a single camera, providing 30 days of cloud storage and advanced detection features.
For enhanced benefits like 4K video recording, the Arlo Secure Plus plan is approximately $179.88 per year. Arlo also offers multi-camera plans, which can be more cost-effective if you have multiple devices.
Opting for an annual subscription saves you money compared to monthly payments, making it a better choice for long-term users seeking enhanced security.
How To Record Arlo Pro 4 Without Subscription
You can record footage from your Arlo Pro 4 without needing a subscription by using the local storage option. This allows you to save recordings directly onto an SD card through the Arlo SmartHub or base station.
Follow these simple steps to get started:
- Set Up Arlo SmartHub: Connect the Arlo SmartHub to your home Wi-Fi network for local storage access.
- Insert a MicroSD Card: Place a compatible microSD card into the SmartHub to store your recordings.
- Open the Arlo App: Access the Arlo app and go to the device settings for your Arlo Pro 4.
- Enable Local Storage: Turn on local storage under “Storage Settings” to save videos directly.
- Position the Arlo Pro 4: Place your camera in the desired location for optimal monitoring.
- Activate Motion Detection: Enable motion detection to ensure your camera records whenever it senses movement.
- Access Stored Videos: View and manage your recorded videos through the Arlo app or by connecting the SD card to a computer.
Does Arlo Still Need A Base Station?
Whether Arlo needs a base station depends on the camera model. Some Arlo cameras, like the Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra, benefit from a base station, offering features like local storage, extended range, and enhanced battery life.
The base station connects to your router and supports multiple cameras. However, newer models like the Arlo Pro 4 and Arlo Essential can operate without a base station, connecting directly to your Wi-Fi.
While it’s not mandatory for these models, using a base station can provide better performance and additional storage options through an SD card or USB drive.
Wrap Up
Arlo doesn’t require a subscription, but it can significantly enhance your security experience. If you only need basic features like live streaming and local storage, you can use Arlo without paying extra.
However, a subscription unlocks valuable benefits like cloud storage, advanced detection, and emergency response. It’s a great option for those wanting more peace of mind.
Evaluate your needs and choose the option that best suits your home security goals. Whether you go with a subscription or not, Arlo provides flexible solutions to keep your home safe and secure. The choice is entirely yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Arlo require a subscription for basic features?
Arlo cameras can be used without a subscription, providing basic functionality like live streaming and motion detection. However, to access advanced features such as cloud storage, activity zones, and video history, a subscription plan is necessary.
What features are included in the Arlo subscription?
Arlo subscription plans offer features like 30 days of cloud storage for recordings, advanced object detection, customizable activity zones, and the ability to share camera access with family. These features enhance your overall experience and improve security management.
Is there a free trial for Arlo subscription?
Yes, Arlo typically offers a free trial for its subscription services, allowing users to explore premium features like cloud storage and advanced alerts. The trial usually lasts for a limited time, after which you can choose to continue with a paid plan.
Can I cancel my Arlo subscription anytime?
Yes, you can cancel your Arlo subscription at any time. Once canceled, you will retain access to the subscribed features until the end of your billing cycle. After that, your account will revert to the basic plan without any additional charges.
Reference:
arlo.com. What changed in the Arlo Smart subscription plans?