As the world becomes increasingly dependent on smart home security systems, one question that has been on everyone’s mind is whether Arlo cameras continuously record. With the rise of security cameras, it’s essential to understand how they work, their recording capabilities, and what features they offer. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Arlo cameras, exploring their recording capabilities, modes, and what you can expect from these devices.
Understanding Arlo Cameras
Arlo cameras are a popular choice among homeowners and businesses looking to secure their properties. These cameras are known for their wireless design, weather resistance, and high-quality video recording capabilities. Arlo offers a range of cameras, including battery-powered, wired, and doorbell cameras, each with its unique features and capabilities.
Recording Modes: A Closer Look
Arlo cameras offer various recording modes, which can be confusing for some users. The primary recording modes include:
- Continuous Video Recording (CVR): This mode allows Arlo cameras to record continuously, 24/7, without any interruptions. However, this mode is only available on Arlo Smart plans, which require a subscription.
- Motion Detection: In this mode, the camera only records when motion is detected. This mode helps conserve storage space and reduces false alerts.
- Scheduled Recording: Users can schedule specific times for the camera to record, which is useful for recording during specific hours or events.
Continuous Video Recording (CVR): What You Need to Know
CVR is a premium feature that allows Arlo cameras to record continuously. This mode is ideal for users who want to capture every moment, without any gaps in the footage. However, CVR requires a significant amount of storage space, which can be a concern for users with limited storage capacity.
To give you a better idea, here’s a rough estimate of the storage space required for CVR:
| Resolution | Storage Space Required (per day) |
| — | — |
| 1080p | 300-400 GB |
| 2K | 600-800 GB |
| 4K | 1.2-1.6 TB |
As you can see, CVR requires a substantial amount of storage space, especially for higher resolutions. Users need to ensure they have sufficient storage capacity to accommodate the recorded footage.
Arlo Smart Plans: The Key to Continuous Recording
Arlo Smart plans are subscription-based services that offer additional features, including CVR. These plans provide users with more storage space, advanced motion detection, and personalized alerts. There are three Arlo Smart plans available:
- Arlo Smart: This plan offers 30 days of cloud storage, motion detection, and alerts.
- Arlo Smart Premier: This plan provides 30 days of cloud storage, motion detection, alerts, and CVR for up to 5 cameras.
- Arlo Smart Elite: This plan offers 60 days of cloud storage, motion detection, alerts, and CVR for up to 10 cameras.
Benefits of Continuous Recording
Continuous recording offers several benefits, including:
- Comprehensive Security: With CVR, you can capture every moment, providing a comprehensive security solution for your property.
- Evidence: In the event of a crime or incident, CVR can provide valuable evidence, helping authorities identify perpetrators.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your camera is recording continuously can give you peace of mind, especially when you’re away from home.
Drawbacks of Continuous Recording
While CVR offers several benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider:
- Storage Space: CVR requires significant storage space, which can be a concern for users with limited storage capacity.
- Cost: Arlo Smart plans, which offer CVR, require a subscription, adding to the overall cost of the camera.
- Battery Life: For battery-powered cameras, CVR can reduce battery life, requiring more frequent recharging.
Alternatives to Continuous Recording
If you’re not interested in CVR or don’t have an Arlo Smart plan, there are alternative recording modes available. Motion detection and scheduled recording can provide a more efficient and cost-effective solution for your security needs.
Motion Detection: A Viable Alternative
Motion detection is a popular recording mode that only records when motion is detected. This mode helps conserve storage space and reduces false alerts. Arlo cameras use advanced motion detection algorithms to detect and record motion, providing a reliable and efficient security solution.
Scheduled Recording: A Flexible Option
Scheduled recording allows users to schedule specific times for the camera to record. This mode is useful for recording during specific hours or events, providing a flexible and customizable security solution.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Arlo cameras do offer continuous recording, but it’s only available on Arlo Smart plans, which require a subscription. CVR provides a comprehensive security solution, but it requires significant storage space and can be costly. Alternative recording modes, such as motion detection and scheduled recording, offer a more efficient and cost-effective solution for your security needs. Ultimately, the choice of recording mode depends on your specific security requirements and preferences.
By understanding the recording capabilities and modes of Arlo cameras, you can make an informed decision about which camera and plan are right for you. Whether you choose CVR or an alternative recording mode, Arlo cameras provide a reliable and efficient security solution for your property.
Do Arlo Cameras Continuously Record?
Arlo cameras do not continuously record video footage. Instead, they use a motion-based recording system, where the camera starts recording when it detects motion within its field of view. This feature helps to conserve battery life and reduce storage space requirements.
The motion-based recording system can be customized to suit individual needs. Users can adjust the sensitivity of the motion detection feature and set specific recording schedules. Additionally, Arlo cameras can be set to record continuously for a short period, such as 24 hours, but this requires a subscription to the Arlo Smart plan.
How Long Do Arlo Cameras Record For?
The recording duration of Arlo cameras varies depending on the specific model and the subscription plan. For most Arlo cameras, the default recording duration is 30 seconds to 2 minutes, but this can be adjusted up to 5 minutes. Some higher-end models, such as the Arlo Pro 3, can record for up to 6 minutes.
It’s worth noting that Arlo cameras can also be set to record continuously for a short period, such as 24 hours, but this requires a subscription to the Arlo Smart plan. The Arlo Smart plan also provides additional features, such as cloud storage and advanced motion detection.
Do Arlo Cameras Record Audio?
Yes, most Arlo cameras are equipped with a built-in microphone and can record audio. However, the audio recording feature can be turned off if desired. The audio quality is generally good, but it may vary depending on the specific model and environmental conditions.
It’s worth noting that some Arlo cameras, such as the Arlo Pro 3, have a more advanced audio recording feature that can detect and alert users to specific sounds, such as a baby crying or a doorbell ringing. This feature requires a subscription to the Arlo Smart plan.
Can I View Live Footage on My Arlo Camera?
Yes, Arlo cameras allow users to view live footage remotely through the Arlo app. The live streaming feature is available for all Arlo cameras, and it provides a real-time view of what’s happening within the camera’s field of view.
The live streaming feature can be accessed through the Arlo app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices. Users can also use the app to communicate with visitors through the camera’s built-in speaker, which is available on some Arlo models.
Do Arlo Cameras Have Night Vision?
Yes, most Arlo cameras have night vision capabilities, which allow them to record footage in low-light conditions. The night vision feature uses infrared LEDs to illuminate the camera’s field of view, providing a clear view of what’s happening even in complete darkness.
The night vision feature is available on most Arlo cameras, including the Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 3 models. However, the quality of the night vision footage may vary depending on the specific model and environmental conditions.
Can I Customize My Arlo Camera’s Recording Settings?
Yes, Arlo cameras allow users to customize their recording settings to suit their individual needs. Users can adjust the motion detection sensitivity, set specific recording schedules, and customize the recording duration.
Additionally, users can also customize the camera’s alert settings, such as setting up notifications for specific motion events or adjusting the alert sensitivity. The Arlo app provides a range of customization options, allowing users to tailor their camera’s settings to their specific needs.
Do Arlo Cameras Require a Subscription?
No, Arlo cameras do not require a subscription to function. However, a subscription to the Arlo Smart plan is required to access additional features, such as cloud storage, advanced motion detection, and continuous recording.
The Arlo Smart plan provides a range of benefits, including 30 days of cloud storage, advanced motion detection, and continuous recording for up to 24 hours. Users can choose from a range of subscription plans, including a free plan that provides limited features and a premium plan that provides additional features and support.