The Arlo Pro 5S 2K Spotlight Camera can work with some local storage, but to access all its features, you'll need a subscription to Arlo Secure. According to the manufacturer's product description, you also need an Arlo Pro Smart Hub (sold separately) to store 2K video recordings locally.
This Hub lets you use an external USB drive for storage, providing some functionality without a subscription. However, without Arlo Secure, you miss out on a bunch of features like cloud storage, advanced motion detection, and customized alerts.
Our research suggests that relying only on local storage isn't perfect. Some folks have had trouble accessing local recordings remotely unless they set up a VPN or configure port forwarding, which can be tricky and a hassle.
Plus, without a stable internet connection, you might face issues accessing real-time footage or getting alerts, which can limit the camera's usefulness. Local storage helps you dodge subscription fees, but you also lose out on things like remote recording access and intelligent notifications.
To get the most out of the Arlo Pro 5S 2K and enjoy a seamless experience, many users recommend subscribing to Arlo Secure. That way, you can make the most of all the advanced features and security benefits the camera has to offer.
