How to Fix Pixelated or Blurry Video on Your Arlo Camera
A key reason for choosing Arlo is its promise of clear, high-definition video. So, when your live stream or recordings appear pixelated, blocky, or blurry, it's understandably disappointing. The good news is that poor video quality is almost always a solvable connectivity issue. This guide will help you pinpoint the cause and restore the crisp video quality you expect.
## The #1 Cause: A Weak Wi-Fi Connection
In the vast majority of cases, pixelation is a symptom of a poor wireless connection between your Arlo camera and your Wi-Fi router or Arlo SmartHub.
When the connection is weak, the camera automatically lowers the video bitrate to prevent the stream from dropping completely. This reduction in data results in a "pixelated" or "blocky" appearance. Your camera is prioritising sending any video over sending high-quality video.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Improving Video Quality
Follow these steps to diagnose and strengthen your camera's connection.
### 1. Check Wi-Fi Signal Strength in the Arlo App
The Arlo app has a built-in tool to check the connection quality.
- Open the Arlo Secure app.
- Tap on Devices and select the camera you're having issues with.
- Tap the settings cog icon to open Device Settings.
- Scroll down and tap on Device Utilities, then select Camera Positioning.
- The app will show you the Wi-Fi signal strength (or connection to the SmartHub). For good quality video, you want this to show two or three bars. If it only shows one bar, the signal is too weak.
### 2. Optimise Your Camera's Position
If the signal is weak, physical distance and obstructions are the likely cause.
- Move Closer: Try moving the camera closer to your Wi-Fi router or SmartHub. Even moving it a few feet can make a significant difference.
- Minimise Obstructions: Wi-Fi signals are weakened by physical barriers. The worst culprits are thick materials like brick, concrete, metal, and even large bodies of water (like aquariums). Try to ensure the most direct line-of-sight possible between the camera and the router.
### 3. Adjust Video Quality Settings
You might have the video quality set lower than the camera's maximum capability.
- In the camera's Device Settings, go to Video Settings.
- Under "Video Quality," ensure you have selected the best option (e.g., "Best Video"). Note that Arlo may label this as "Best Battery Life" vs "Best Video". Choosing "Best Video" will use more battery but provide a clearer image, assuming the Wi-Fi signal is strong enough to support it.
### 4. Check Your Internet Upload Speed
While Wi-Fi signal strength is about the local connection in your home, your overall internet plan also plays a role. Your camera needs sufficient upload speed to send clear video to the Arlo cloud.
- Run a Speed Test: Use a speed testing website or app on your phone (while connected to your Wi-Fi) to check your internet speed. Pay close attention to the upload speed.
- Check Requirements: Arlo recommends at least 2 Mbps of upload speed per camera that is streaming simultaneously. If your upload speed is below this, you may need to contact your internet service provider to discuss upgrading your plan.
### 5. Reboot Your Equipment
If the issue persists, a simple reboot can clear temporary glitches.
- Restart your Arlo camera (by removing and reinserting the battery or using the restart option in the app).
- Reboot your Arlo SmartHub (if you have one).
- Reboot your home's Wi-Fi router.
By systematically improving your camera's connection, you can eliminate pixelation and enjoy the clear, detailed security footage that Arlo is known for.