Does Arlo Require a Subscription?

Arlo cameras can function without a subscription, but they only provide basic functions like:

• Live streaming via the Arlo Secure app
• Two-way audio
• Motion notifications
• Local storage for specific models
• Arlo account access for managing devices

However, cloud recordings, AI features, and video verification are locked behind a paid plan. If you’re looking for family safety monitoring, 24/7 emergency response, or cloud activity zones, you’ll need an Arlo Secure subscription.

Check out more security cameras that don't require a subscription plan.

Arlo Secure Plans & Pricing

Arlo offers several subscription plans to enhance its home security systems:

1. Arlo Secure Plus

• Single Camera: $7.99/month (billed annually)
• Unlimited Cameras: $17.99/month (billed annually)
• Features Included:
  • 60-Day Cloud Storage for video history
  • Person & Vehicle Recognition
  • Package & Animal Detection
  • Custom Detection (Beta)
  • Smart Audio Detection
  • Enhanced security features

2. Arlo Secure Premium

• Unlimited Cameras: $24.99/month (billed annually)
• All Arlo Secure Plus Features, plus:
  • 24/7 Professional Monitoring
  • 24/7 Emergency Response
  • Cellular & Battery Backup
  • Home Insurance Discounts
  • Arlo Safe Plan for personal safety

For those who want continuous recording, Arlo Secure plans also offer Cloud Recording (CVR) for an extra monthly fee.

Features Available Without a Subscription

If you decide not to pay for an Arlo subscription, you can still use most cameras with some limitations:

• Live View: Watch a live stream from your security cameras through the Arlo Secure app.
• Two-way Audio: Speak with visitors through Arlo cameras.
• Local Recording: Some models support local storage using a Base Station.
• Motion Notifications: Get alerts when family members arrive or motion is detected.
• Battery Backup: Certain Arlo products allow for backup power options.

Check our guide for how to fix issues if your Arlo camera is nor recording.

Arlo Models That Work Without a Subscription

• Arlo Essential Video Doorbell (Local recording supported) - Features a super-wide field of vision and operates in various temperatures.
• Arlo Pro series (Requires Base Station for local recording)
• Arlo Baby (Provides monitoring, but lacks cloud recordings)

Limitations Without a Subscription

• No free cloud storage (except for certain older models with 7-day rolling storage)
• No cloud activity zones
• No AI audio detection
• No video recording in 4K
• No emergency response
• No video object detection
• Limited to up to 5 security cameras on one account

Comparing Arlo to Competitors

Many home security systems require a monthly fee for advanced features. Here’s how Arlo Secure subscription stacks up:

Feature	Arlo Secure	Nest Aware	Ring Protect
Free Plan	Live View, Two-way Audio, Motion Alerts	3-hour cloud recording	Live View, Motion Alerts
Cloud Recording	30 days (Paid)	30-60 days (Paid)	60 days (Paid)
AI Detection	Yes (Paid)	Yes (Paid)	Yes (Paid)
24/7 Recording	Extra Fee	Available	Not Available
Professional Monitoring	Yes	No	Yes

Key Takeaway: Arlo’s free plan lacks cloud recording, whereas Nest offers limited free cloud storage. Ring Protect has similar subscription requirements for cloud storage and AI detection.

Several companies offer competitive home security options that may be more affordable than Arlo.

Read our comparison: Arlo vs. Ring – Which Home Security System is Better?

Should You Get an Arlo Subscription?

Deciding whether to invest in an Arlo Secure plan depends on your security needs and how you plan to use your Arlo cameras. While the free plan offers basic functions, subscribing unlocks advanced features that can significantly enhance your home security system.

Who Should Stick to the Free Plan?

• If you only need live viewing and don’t require cloud recording.
• If your camera supports local storage through a Base Station.
• If you don’t need AI-based video object detection, cloud activity zones, or emergency response services.
• If you’re comfortable manually retrieving recorded footage from local storage.

Who Should Get a Secure Plan?

• If you want cloud storage for recorded footage, ensuring you can access past events remotely.
• If you need AI-powered activity zones to reduce false alerts from trees, pets, or vehicles.
• If you prefer 24/7 emergency response, which allows you to quickly dispatch emergency services.
• If you want priority care for faster customer support in case of technical issues.
• If you use multiple security cameras and want the ability to monitor an unlimited number of devices.

Additional Considerations

For users who rely on family safety monitoring, the Arlo Safe & Secure Pro plan is a great option. It includes crash detection, cellular and battery backup, and emergency contacts integration. If you travel frequently or want remote monitoring for loved ones, a paid plan provides valuable peace of mind.

Additionally, businesses or homeowners with multiple Arlo devices may find a secure subscription necessary to maximize coverage and access to critical video verification features. Investing in a secure plan ensures that all your recorded footage is backed up and accessible from anywhere via the Arlo Secure app.

How to Save Money on Arlo Subscriptions

Arlo’s subscription plans provide great features, but costs can add up over time. Here are some strategies to save money while still enjoying the benefits of an Arlo Secure subscription:

• Annual Plans: Opt for an annual subscription instead of monthly payments to get a discounted rate.
• Support Discounts: Arlo sometimes offers discounts for family members, military personnel, and first responders.
• Bundle Deals: Purchasing multiple Arlo devices together may include limited-time subscription discounts.
• Use Local Storage: If your Arlo camera supports a Base Station, you can store recordings locally instead of paying for cloud storage.
• Look for Promotions: Arlo frequently runs promotions, especially during holidays or sales events, where you can save on Arlo Secure plans.
• Free Trial Usage: New Arlo cameras often come with a 3-month free trial of Arlo Secure—use this time to decide if you need a paid plan.
• Share a Plan: If you have multiple cameras, opt for the unlimited cameras plan instead of multiple single-camera plans to reduce costs.
• Downgrade If Needed: If you don’t use premium features like 24/7 emergency response or video verification, consider switching to a lower-tier plan.
• Insurance Savings: Some insurance providers offer discounts of up to 20% if you have a paid Arlo subscription plan.

Conclusion

Does Arlo require a subscription? No, but an Arlo Secure plan unlocks many important features like cloud storage, AI object detection, emergency response, and video verification.

If you’re using Arlo cameras for basic monitoring, you can get by without a subscription, but if you want full security features, a paid plan is worth considering.

Final Recommendation

• Use the free plan if you only need basic functions like live streaming and local storage.
• Get an Arlo Secure subscription if you need cloud recording, AI detection, and emergency response.

With multiple Arlo subscription plans available, you can choose the right balance between home security, family safety, and cost savings.

FAQ

Does Arlo still work without a subscription?

Yes, Arlo cameras can still work without a subscription and perform basic functions such as live streaming, two-way audio, and push notifications. However, some advanced features, including cloud storage, emergency call services, and AI-enabled detection features, are only available with a subscription plan.

Is there a monthly fee for Arlo?

Yes, there is a monthly subscription fee for Arlo. It starts at $4.99 for the basic Secure Plan for a single camera and up to $24.99 for the Safe & Secure Pro that supports unlimited cameras.

Does Arlo record for free?

No, you will need a Continuous Video Recording (VCR) plan to activate your camera's video recording features.

How long is Arlo's free subscription?

The free Arlo Secure subscription lasts for 30 days and starts after you register the device to your Arlo account.

What does Arlo's free trial subscription include?

The free trial includes:

• Rolling 30-day cloud recording (2K to 4K video quality).
• Person, Vehicle, Animal, and Package Detection.
• Smoke and CO detection.
• Customizable motion zones.
• Notification filtering.
• Rich notifications with preview images and live streaming from your phone's lock screen
• Emergency Services (US only).

Does Arlo Pro 4 require a subscription?

No, the Arlo Pro 4 doesn't require a subscription. However, if you want to enjoy advanced features, you'll have to avail yourself of one of the Arlo Secure plans.

To improve your Arlo setup, check out Wasserstein's collection of Arlo accessories including mounts, floodlights, solar panels, and more!