Arlo cameras work without a paid subscription, but what you can do with them changes based on what you pay
Arlo security cameras record and store video without requiring a subscription. You can set up the camera, connect it to power and Wi-Fi, and view live footage through the Arlo app on your phone or computer at no cost. However, Arlo offers optional paid plans that unlock features like cloud storage of recorded video, person detection, and longer video retention. Whether you need to pay depends on what you want the camera to do.
The free tier lets you watch live video and receive notifications when motion is detected. You cannot store video in the cloud or review recordings later unless you pay. If you only need to check on your camera in real time, the free version is complete. If you want the camera to record and save what it sees, you will need a subscription.
Key Takeaways
- Arlo cameras function without a subscription, and you can watch live video for free through the app.
- Free accounts do not include cloud video storage, so recordings are not saved unless you pay for a plan.
- Arlo offers monthly and yearly subscription options that add cloud storage, person detection, and other features.
- The cost and features of paid plans vary depending on how many cameras you own and which Arlo model you use.
What the free version includes
With a free Arlo account, you get live view of your camera feed whenever you open the app. You will receive motion and sound alerts on your phone when the camera detects activity. You can also manually record a video clip and save it to your phone's storage, though this is a one-time action you start yourself, not automatic recording.
The free version does not include cloud storage. This means video clips are not saved to Arlo's servers and you cannot review them later through the app. If your camera is unplugged, stolen, or damaged, any video on the device is lost. The free tier is useful if you want to monitor your home or property in real time but do not need a record of what happened when you were not watching.
What paid subscriptions add
Arlo's paid plans store video in the cloud so you can watch recordings days or weeks after they happen. The camera records automatically when motion is detected, and you can review that footage through the app without downloading it to your phone. Paid plans also include person detection, which sends you an alert only when a person is detected rather than alerting you for every moving branch or passing car.
Other features in paid plans include package detection (alerts when a package is left at your door), animal detection, and the ability to create custom activity zones so the camera ignores motion in certain areas. The exact features depend on which subscription tier you choose and which Arlo camera model you own.
Arlo's subscription pricing and tiers
Arlo offers several subscription options. The most common is the Standard plan, which covers one camera and includes 30 days of cloud video storage. A higher tier called Premium adds 60 days of storage and more advanced detection features. Arlo also sells plans that cover multiple cameras at a discounted rate per camera if you have more than one device.
Subscriptions are billed monthly or yearly. Yearly plans cost less per month than paying month-to-month. Prices vary by region and change over time, so check Arlo's website or app for current rates. Some plans are sold as add-ons to specific camera bundles, while others are sold separately. If you already own an Arlo camera, you can purchase a subscription plan through the app.
How to check what plan you have
Open the Arlo app and tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner. Select "My Subscriptions" or "Account Settings" depending on your app version. You will see your current plan, the renewal date, and what features are included. If you see "Free" or no plan listed, your account is on the free tier.
From this same screen, you can upgrade to a paid plan, change your plan tier, or cancel a subscription. If you cancel, your account reverts to free and you lose access to cloud storage, but your camera continues to work and send live alerts.
Arlo cameras that require a subscription
Most Arlo cameras work the same way: they function without a subscription but offer more features if you pay. However, some older Arlo models or specific bundles may have different rules. Arlo also makes a product called Arlo find, which is a broader home security service that includes camera monitoring and may have different subscription requirements.
When you buy an Arlo camera, check the product description or manual to confirm whether it requires a subscription to operate. Most current Arlo models do not require one, but bundled services or professional monitoring plans may have mandatory fees. The Arlo app will tell you clearly whether your camera needs a paid plan to function.
Alternatives if you do not want to pay
If you want to record video without paying Arlo, you have other options. Some security camera brands offer free cloud storage or longer free storage periods. You can also use a local storage option like a microSD card inserted into the camera itself, though not all Arlo models support this. Another route is to use a separate video storage service or network-attached storage (NAS) device, though this requires more technical setup.
If you own an Arlo camera and want to keep using it without a subscription, the free tier is sufficient for live monitoring. You will not have automatic recording or cloud playback, but you can still see what your camera sees in real time and manually save clips to your phone when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Arlo camera if I cancel my subscription?
Yes. Your camera continues to work and send live alerts. You lose cloud storage and advanced detection features, but the camera itself does not stop functioning. You can resubscribe at any time and regain access to stored video and paid features.
Do I need a subscription to view live video?
No. Live view is free on all Arlo cameras. You only need a paid subscription if you want automatic recording, cloud storage of past video, or advanced detection features like person detection.
What happens to my recorded video if I cancel my subscription?
Video stored in the cloud is deleted when your subscription ends, usually within 30 days of cancellation. read or save any important clips before your subscription expires if you want to keep them.
Can I use local storage instead of paying for cloud storage?
Some Arlo models support microSD cards for local storage, but not all. Check your camera's specifications to see if it has a card slot. Even with local storage, you may still need a subscription for certain features like person detection, depending on the model.
Is there a free trial for Arlo subscriptions?
Arlo sometimes offers free trial periods for new customers, but this varies by region and changes over time. Check the app or Arlo's website to see if a trial is currently available for your account.