A Comprehensive Guide to Fixing Arlo Poor Video Quality
When you invest in a high-quality security system like Arlo, you expect a clear, detailed video feed. So, it's incredibly frustrating when your recordings or live stream are pixelated, blurry, or constantly lagging. Poor video quality not only looks bad but can also make it impossible to identify important details in a security event.
This guide will help you troubleshoot the common causes of poor video quality on Arlo cameras and provide effective solutions to restore the crisp, high-definition picture you need.
## Start with the Basics: Quick Fixes for Video Quality
Before adjusting complex settings, let's rule out the most common and simple-to-fix culprits.
### 1. Clean the Camera Lens
An outdoor camera is exposed to the elements. Dust, pollen, water spots, and even spiderwebs can obstruct the lens and severely degrade image quality, making it appear blurry or hazy.
- Action: Gently wipe the lens of your Arlo camera with a soft, clean microfibre cloth. Avoid using paper towels or abrasive cleaners that could scratch the lens. This simple act can often make a dramatic difference.
### 2. Check Your Internet Upload Speed
We often focus on download speed, but for a camera, upload speed is critical. It determines how effectively your camera can send video data to the Arlo cloud.
- Action: Use a speed test app on your phone or computer while connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Arlo system. Arlo recommends a minimum upload speed of 1-2 Mbps per camera. If four cameras are running, you need 4-8 Mbps of upload speed available. If your speed is too low, you may need to contact your internet service provider to upgrade your plan.
## Optimising Your Arlo System and Network
If the basics don't solve the problem, the issue likely lies in your Wi-Fi environment or app settings.
### Improve the Wi-Fi Signal to Your Camera
This is the most common cause of pixelated, stuttering video. If the Wi-Fi signal reaching your camera is weak, the camera will automatically reduce the video quality to maintain a connection.
- Action:
- In the Arlo app, go to your camera's Device Settings and find the network or connection status section to check the signal strength.
- If the signal is weak (1 or 2 bars), you need to improve it.
- Reduce the Distance: Try moving your camera closer to your Wi-Fi router or Arlo SmartHub/Base Station.
- Minimise Obstructions: Wi-Fi signals are weakened by dense materials like brick walls, metal, and even large appliances. Ensure the path between the camera and the router/base station is as clear as possible.
- Consider an Extender: If you cannot move the camera or router, a Wi-Fi range extender or a mesh Wi-Fi system can help boost the signal in the area where the camera is located.
### Adjust Video Quality Settings in the Arlo App
Arlo cameras have settings that let you balance video quality against battery life. It's possible your camera is set to a power-saving mode that reduces video quality.
- Action:
- Open the Arlo app and select the camera you wish to adjust.
- Go to Device Settings > Video Settings.
- Look for the quality setting. Make sure it is not set to a low-resolution or battery-saving option.
- Select the highest quality setting your network can support. You can test this by viewing the live stream after changing the setting. If it streams smoothly, your network can handle it.
## Advanced Steps for Persistent Issues
If you're still experiencing problems, here are a few more things to check.
- Firmware Updates: Ensure your Arlo cameras and SmartHub/Base Station have the latest firmware installed. Arlo pushes these updates automatically, but a device may have missed one. You can trigger a check by rebooting your devices.
- Reboot Your System: A full system reboot can clear temporary glitches. Unplug your Arlo SmartHub/Base Station and your Wi-Fi router. Wait 60 seconds. Plug the router back in first and let it fully restart. Then, plug your SmartHub/Base Station back in.
By methodically working through these steps, you can identify the bottleneck and make the necessary adjustments to significantly improve your Arlo camera's video quality.