When it comes to home security cameras, one of the most popular options on the market is Arlo. Known for their wireless, weather-resistant, and feature-rich cameras, Arlo has become a go-to choice for many homeowners. However, one question that often arises when considering Arlo cameras is whether or not they require a subscription. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of Arlo’s subscription model, exploring what’s included, what’s not, and what alternatives are available.
Understanding Arlo’s Subscription Model
Arlo offers a range of cameras, from the budget-friendly Arlo Essential to the more advanced Arlo Pro and Arlo Ultra. While these cameras can be purchased outright, Arlo also offers a subscription-based service that provides additional features and benefits. This service is known as Arlo Smart.
Arlo Smart is a cloud-based platform that allows users to store and access their camera footage remotely. With Arlo Smart, users can enjoy features such as:
- Cloud storage: Store up to 30 days of footage in the cloud, depending on the subscription plan.
- Person detection: Receive notifications when a person is detected in the camera’s field of view.
- Customizable alerts: Set up alerts for specific events, such as motion detection or audio detection.
- Activity zones: Define specific areas within the camera’s field of view to receive alerts for.
Arlo Smart Subscription Plans
Arlo offers several subscription plans to suit different needs and budgets. Here are the current plans available:
- Arlo Smart Premier: This plan costs $2.99 per month or $29.99 per year and includes 30 days of cloud storage for up to 2 cameras.
- Arlo Smart Elite: This plan costs $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year and includes 30 days of cloud storage for up to 4 cameras.
- Arlo Smart Pro: This plan costs $14.99 per month or $149.99 per year and includes 60 days of cloud storage for up to 5 cameras.
Do Arlo Cameras Require a Subscription?
While an Arlo Smart subscription is not strictly necessary to use Arlo cameras, it is required to access certain features and benefits. Here are some scenarios where a subscription may or may not be required:
- Local storage only: If you only need to store footage locally on the camera or on a USB drive, you don’t need an Arlo Smart subscription.
- Basic camera functionality: Arlo cameras can still be used without a subscription, but you’ll only have access to basic features such as live streaming and motion detection.
- Advanced features: To access advanced features such as person detection, customizable alerts, and activity zones, an Arlo Smart subscription is required.
Alternatives to Arlo Smart
If you’re not interested in subscribing to Arlo Smart, there are alternative options available. Here are a few:
- Local storage: As mentioned earlier, you can store footage locally on the camera or on a USB drive. This option is free, but you’ll need to ensure you have enough storage space.
- Third-party cloud storage: You can use third-party cloud storage services such as Google Drive or Dropbox to store your camera footage. This option may require a separate subscription.
- Other security camera brands: If you’re not set on Arlo, you can consider other security camera brands that offer free or low-cost cloud storage options.
Benefits of an Arlo Smart Subscription
While an Arlo Smart subscription may seem like an added expense, it offers several benefits that can enhance your home security experience. Here are a few:
- Convenience: With Arlo Smart, you can access your camera footage remotely and receive notifications on your smartphone or tablet.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that your footage is stored securely in the cloud can give you peace of mind, especially if you’re away from home for extended periods.
- Advanced features: Arlo Smart offers advanced features such as person detection and activity zones that can help you stay on top of your home security.
Drawbacks of an Arlo Smart Subscription
While an Arlo Smart subscription offers several benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
- Cost: An Arlo Smart subscription can add to the overall cost of owning an Arlo camera.
- Dependence on cloud storage: If you rely on Arlo Smart for cloud storage, you may be concerned about data security and privacy.
- Internet connectivity: Arlo Smart requires a stable internet connection to function, which can be a concern if you have a slow or unreliable internet connection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while an Arlo Smart subscription is not strictly necessary to use Arlo cameras, it is required to access certain features and benefits. If you’re looking for a comprehensive home security solution with advanced features and cloud storage, an Arlo Smart subscription may be worth considering. However, if you’re on a budget or prefer to store footage locally, you can still use Arlo cameras without a subscription. Ultimately, the decision to subscribe to Arlo Smart depends on your specific needs and preferences.
| Arlo Smart Plan | Cost | Cloud Storage | Number of Cameras |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arlo Smart Premier | $2.99/month or $29.99/year | 30 days | Up to 2 cameras |
| Arlo Smart Elite | $4.99/month or $49.99/year | 30 days | Up to 4 cameras |
| Arlo Smart Pro | $14.99/month or $149.99/year | 60 days | Up to 5 cameras |
By understanding the details of Arlo’s subscription model and the benefits and drawbacks of an Arlo Smart subscription, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to subscribe.
Do Arlo Cameras Require a Subscription for Basic Functionality?
Arlo cameras do not require a subscription for basic functionality. You can still use your Arlo camera without a subscription, but you will be limited to live streaming and motion detection alerts. You will also be able to view recorded videos, but only for a limited time.
However, without a subscription, you will not be able to access some of the advanced features that Arlo offers, such as cloud storage, motion detection alerts with snapshots, and customizable motion zones. If you want to access these features, you will need to subscribe to one of Arlo’s plans.
What Are the Different Subscription Plans Offered by Arlo?
Arlo offers several different subscription plans, including the Arlo Smart plan, the Arlo Smart Premier plan, and the Arlo Smart Elite plan. The Arlo Smart plan is the most basic plan and offers 30 days of cloud storage, motion detection alerts with snapshots, and customizable motion zones. The Arlo Smart Premier plan offers 30 days of cloud storage for up to 10 cameras, while the Arlo Smart Elite plan offers 60 days of cloud storage for up to 20 cameras.
Each plan also offers additional features, such as advanced object detection, package detection, and vehicle detection. The plans also offer different levels of customer support, with the more expensive plans offering priority support.
Can I Use My Arlo Camera Without a Subscription If I Have Local Storage?
Yes, you can use your Arlo camera without a subscription if you have local storage. Arlo cameras can store video footage locally on a USB drive or microSD card, which means you can access your footage even if you don’t have a subscription. However, you will still be limited to the storage capacity of your local storage device.
It’s also worth noting that local storage is not available on all Arlo cameras, so you will need to check your camera’s specifications to see if it supports local storage. Additionally, local storage may not offer the same level of convenience as cloud storage, as you will need to physically access the storage device to view your footage.
Do I Need a Subscription to Access My Arlo Camera’s Footage Remotely?
Yes, you will need a subscription to access your Arlo camera’s footage remotely. Without a subscription, you will only be able to view live footage and access recorded footage locally on the camera or on a connected storage device. If you want to access your footage remotely, you will need to subscribe to one of Arlo’s plans.
Arlo’s plans offer remote access to your footage, which means you can view your footage from anywhere using the Arlo app. This can be especially useful if you want to keep an eye on your home or business while you’re away.
Can I Cancel My Arlo Subscription at Any Time?
Yes, you can cancel your Arlo subscription at any time. Arlo offers month-to-month and annual subscription plans, and you can cancel your subscription at any time without penalty. If you cancel your subscription, you will still be able to access your footage until the end of your billing cycle.
It’s worth noting that if you cancel your subscription, you will lose access to some of the advanced features that Arlo offers, such as cloud storage and motion detection alerts with snapshots. If you want to access these features again, you will need to re-subscribe to one of Arlo’s plans.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Arlo Subscriptions?
Yes, there are discounts available for Arlo subscriptions. Arlo offers discounts for annual subscriptions, as well as discounts for students, military personnel, and first responders. You can also find discounts and promo codes online, which can be used to reduce the cost of your subscription.
It’s worth noting that Arlo also offers a free trial period, which allows you to try out their subscription plans before committing to a paid plan. This can be a great way to test out the features and see if a subscription is right for you.
Can I Use My Arlo Camera with Other Smart Home Devices Without a Subscription?
Yes, you can use your Arlo camera with other smart home devices without a subscription. Arlo cameras are compatible with a wide range of smart home devices, including Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. You can use voice commands to control your camera and access live footage, even without a subscription.
However, some smart home integrations may require a subscription to access advanced features. For example, if you want to use Arlo’s advanced object detection features with your smart home devices, you may need to subscribe to one of Arlo’s plans.