Can Arlo record continuously without subscription?

Can Arlo record continuously without subscription?

Arlo, a popular brand in the field of smart home security cameras, offers various models that allow users to monitor and record their surroundings for enhanced security. However, one common question that many potential buyers have is whether Arlo cameras can record continuously without a subscription. In this article, as a specialized content creation and marketing expert, we will discuss the options available with Arlo cameras and clarify the capabilities of recording without a subscription.

Arlo provides users with two main options for recording: local storage and cloud storage. By default, Arlo cameras offer free basic cloud storage, allowing users to store up to seven days' worth of motion and audio-triggered recordings. However, continuous recording is not included in the basic free plan.

Continuous recording, often desired by users who want to keep an uninterrupted track of their surroundings, requires additional features and resources. For Arlo cameras, continuous recording is available as a paid feature in the form of an Arlo Smart subscription. Arlo Smart plans offer features like advanced AI detection, person detection, package detection, and, most importantly, continuous video recording.

With an Arlo Smart subscription, users can access a range of continuous recording options, including 24/7 video recording. These subscriptions are available in various tiers, offering different durations of storage, such as 14 or 30 days. Users can choose the plan that best suits their needs and budget.

However, it is important to note that Arlo cameras can still record without a subscription, but not in a continuous manner. The cameras can be set to record whenever motion or audio is detected. While this may not provide constant surveillance, it still captures important events and potential threats.

Furthermore, Arlo cameras support local storage options through the use of microSD cards or USB drives. This allows users to directly save recordings locally without relying on cloud storage or subscriptions. By placing an appropriate storage device in the camera's slot, users can set their Arlo camera to record continuously without the need for a subscription. However, it is crucial to regularly manage the local storage as these devices have a limited capacity and may overwrite old recordings when full, unless specified otherwise in the camera settings.

In conclusion, while Arlo cameras can record continuously, it requires a subscription to the Arlo Smart service. The basic free plan offers limited cloud storage for motion and audio-triggered recordings, but not for continuous recording. To have access to 24/7 continuous recording and other advanced features, users will need to opt for a paid Arlo Smart subscription. However, it is worth noting that Arlo cameras still provide recording capabilities without a subscription, allowing for motion and audio-triggered recording. Additionally, local storage options can be utilized to save continuous recordings directly on microSD cards or USB drives. Ultimately, the choice between subscribing to a plan or opting for other recording options depends on the user's specific needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Arlo cameras require a subscription to the Arlo Smart service in order to record continuously. Without a subscription, the cameras can only record when motion or sound is detected.

Subscribing to Arlo Smart unlocks the continuous recording feature, allowing you to have round-the-clock video footage from your Arlo cameras. It also provides advanced features like person detection, package detection, and e911 emergency call service.

Yes, you can access the recordings stored in your Arlo camera's library without a subscription. However, without a subscription, the recordings will be limited to motion or sound-triggered events and will not include continuous recording.

Without a subscription, you can still use other recording modes on Arlo cameras, such as scheduled recording or activating recording manually through the app. However, these options may not provide continuous recording and require manual intervention to start and stop recording.

No, Arlo cameras do not offer built-in local storage for continuous recording. You need an active subscription to the Arlo Smart service to enable continuous recording and have the footage stored in the cloud.