Does Arlo need a subscription?
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Answer: Not to work, but you need one to record to the cloud. With no plan, Arlo lists live streaming, push notifications, two-way audio and local storage recording for current cameras. Local storage needs an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station for most cameras.
Arlo's "No Plan" section lists what still works after the trial ends 1. Local backups need a SmartHub or Base Station with microSD or USB storage 23. The Pro 5S manual says recording continues to USB if the hub loses internet 4.
Does Arlo work without internet?
Only partly: with a SmartHub or Base Station, recording to local storage can continue during an outage. 42
Does Arlo work with Home Assistant?
Not officially; the Arlo integration was removed from Home Assistant. 5
Does Arlo share video with police?
Arlo says it requires a search warrant before producing video. 6
| Device | Score | Offline | Local storage | Subscription | Account | Home Assistant | RTSP/ONVIF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arlo Essential Video Doorbell (2nd Gen)Doorbell · Battery or wired | 31 | Partial | Hub only | Partly | Required | None | Unverified |
| Arlo Pro 5S 2K Spotlight CameraCamera · Battery, Wi-Fi | 31 | Partial | Hub only | Partly | Required | None | Unverified |
Informational only, not legal advice. Found an error? Tell us.
Sources
- Arlo support (UK): Subscription plans and "No Plan" features · checked Oct 22, 2026
- Arlo: Local storage backups with SmartHub/Base Station · checked Oct 22, 2026
- Arlo: SmartHub and Base Station compatibility · checked Oct 22, 2026
- Arlo: Pro 5S 2K user manual (PDF) · checked Oct 22, 2026
- Home Assistant: Arlo (removed integration) · checked Oct 22, 2026
- Arlo: Law enforcement guidelines · checked Oct 22, 2026