Does Your Arlo Camera Have Local Storage? It Depends.
Arlo is a leader in the smart security camera market, known for its high-quality, wire-free cameras. A common question from new and potential users is about local storage—the ability to save video recordings without relying solely on Arlo's cloud subscription service. The answer isn't a simple yes or no; it depends entirely on your specific Arlo setup.
This guide will clarify which Arlo cameras support local storage, explain the hardware you need, and walk you through the process of setting it up. We'll also cover the limitations of Arlo's local storage solution so you know exactly what to expect.
The Key to Local Storage: A SmartHub or Base Station
The most important thing to understand is that Arlo cameras do not have built-in SD card slots. You cannot insert a memory card directly into an Arlo Pro 4, an Ultra 2, or an Essential camera.
Instead, local storage is a feature of the Arlo SmartHub or Base Station. These are the central hubs that some Arlo camera systems use to communicate. They plug directly into your router and create a dedicated, secure network for your cameras.
- Cameras that REQUIRE a SmartHub: Models like the Arlo Ultra series and Pro series (Pro 3, Pro 4, etc.) are designed to be paired with a SmartHub. These systems fully support local storage.
- Cameras that CAN connect directly to Wi-Fi: Many newer models, like the Arlo Essential series, are designed for simplicity and can connect directly to your home's Wi-Fi network without a hub. If you use these cameras in this direct-to-Wi-Fi mode, they have NO local storage option. They become cloud-only devices.
Therefore, if local storage is a priority for you, you must have a compatible Arlo camera paired with a SmartHub or Base Station.
How to Set Up and Use Arlo Local Storage
If you have the right equipment, setting up local storage is a straightforward process.
What You'll Need:
- An Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000, VMB4540, etc.) or Base Station.
- A compatible Arlo camera (e.g., Arlo Ultra, Pro 3, Pro 4).
- A USB 2.0 or 3.0 flash drive or an external hard drive (check Arlo's support site for maximum supported capacity, typically up to 2TB). Some hubs use microSD cards instead.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide:
- Connect Your Storage Device: Plug your USB drive or microSD card into the corresponding port on the back of your powered-on Arlo SmartHub.
- Launch the Arlo Secure App: Open the app on your smartphone.
- Navigate to Hub Settings: Go to 'Devices' and select your SmartHub or Base Station from the list.
- Go to Storage Settings: Tap on 'Storage Settings'. The app should recognise the connected device. You may be prompted to format it, which will erase all data on the drive.
- Enable Video Recording: You will see options like 'Record Locally'. Ensure this is toggled on. You can choose the video quality for your recordings.
Your system is now configured to save a copy of motion-triggered recordings to your local drive.
Important Limitations to Understand
Arlo's local storage is best thought of as a backup, not a primary viewing method. It has some significant limitations compared to the cloud service:
- No App-Based Viewing: This is the biggest drawback. You cannot view the recordings saved on your local USB drive through the Arlo app's library or timeline. The app's library only shows cloud recordings.
- Accessing Footage is Manual: To watch your locally saved videos, you must physically eject the USB drive from the SmartHub and plug it into a computer. The video files (in MP4 format) can then be viewed directly.
- Subscription Still Recommended: For the best experience, Arlo's local storage works in tandem with an Arlo Secure subscription. With a subscription, the hub records to the cloud and the local drive simultaneously. This gives you the convenience of app-based viewing and smart notifications, with the peace of mind of a local backup if your internet goes down.
- No CVR: Local storage does not enable Continuous Video Recording (CVR). It only saves clips when motion is detected, just like the cloud recording.
In summary, while Arlo does offer a local storage solution, it's a backup feature that requires specific hardware and comes with the significant caveat of not being accessible through the app.