If you are in the market for do it yourself security cameras, then you probably have come across Arlo cameras. This article outlines all you need to know about Arlo security systems for your home. But, you may already have some Arlo cameras and have questions on how they function. You may find some answers to commonly asked questions about Arlo here.
Introduction to Arlo cameras
In the new but growing industry of DIY home security, Arlo has become a household name. It has established itself through constantly developing a line of products that have become synonymous with quality and which are user-friendly, reliable, and versatile. So, what exactly is Arlo, and how does it work?
What is Arlo?
Arlo is a subsidiary of Netgear. Netgear is a California-based company that has been in business for many years developing and manufacturing IT hardware including modems and routers. Their Arlo brand has focused on security cameras, and in particular wire-free options that use battery power and connect to the internet through your home WiFi network.
That’s why Arlo security system has been most well-known for developing camera technology for home security. In fact, Arlo has been a major industry leader in wireless home security cameras. When considering investing in any type of home security, it is worth considering the brand, its history, and milestones.
Arlo’s Pioneering Technology
Arlo can claim several firsts to it’s name. It has constantly developed and introduced innovative ideas in the home security space. Because of this, they have become leaders in the industry. Here are some facts about Arlo’s pioneering approach.
- Arlo is one of the most established brands. Arlo’s first camera was released in 2014. The realm of wireless cameras for residential use and installed by the end-user is a new industry. But Arlo has been one of the key players innovating in this space since 2014, making it one of the more established brands.
- The first LTE-enabled camera. This development, now copied by other companies, allows cameras to communicate using a cellular network (like a mobile phone). This means the device is remotely accessible and viewable without being tied to a WiFi network.
- Constant improvement of battery technology. Arlo has also been pushing the technology of batteries. They developed unique ways to enhance battery life in their devices by using base stations (or hubs) that allow communication between the cameras and the network (and the internet) while maximizing battery life.
- Arlo’s devices are smart. Arlo is also a pioneer in machine learning technology, having pioneered the use of “smart detection” artificial intelligence on wireless cameras, and it offers a growing selection of smart security cameras and devices. This means for example, that the camera can distinguish between people, animals, and vehicles.
- Plays well with others. One of the key aspects of Arlo’s development is how its systems and devices can communicate with other non-Arlo devices. This is loosely termed “home automation” and it is a defining feature of Arlo’s philosophy.
- Weather-resistant devices. Another area that Arlo has pushed and which other companies have tried to emulate is their development of weather-resistant-rated devices. This is no small thing with such technology, but their devices are truly reliable in all weather conditions.
- Easy Wire-Free Installation. One of the major keys to Arlo’s success has been its focus on making installation simple for the end-user. This means keeping devices wire-free and easy to mount. Arlo has perfected both, setting standards for other brands to follow.
- High Resolution & Night-time viewing. When compared with other companies, Arlo has been at the forefront of pushing the boundaries in quality in these small, wireless, battery-powered devices. They also offer innovative night-time IR viewing. It’s quite remarkable. Arlo’s camera quality is continually improving and is at the top of the rankings.
Because of Arlo’s pioneering technology, their products provide a wide lineup of cameras that are feature-rich, of incredible quality, and which will help you in protecting your home.
Arlo installation is simple and straightforward
It is simple to set up an Arlo camera since there are no wires involved. Arlo cameras are available in a number of sizes, and there are several options for powering them. The cameras all have a consistent appearance and come with a strong magnet that can be used to attach to their wall mounts, which are easy to install with just one screw.
It’s nice and easy to tweak the angle of the camera because of the magnet-based mount. This makes it a much more flexible option than many conventional security cameras. Because the majority of Arlo security cameras are IP65 rated, it means they can be used in almost any weather condition too! And since they are wireless, the possibilities for installation locations are enormous.
The setup of the camera is also incredibly easy. It takes just a minute or so to connect your camera to the base and get the base on your home network. Accessing the camera is also then really easy. Just download the Arlo app to your smartphone. You can configure all settings in the app, and it is sleek, functional and fast.
Most Arlo systems rely on a base station (or hub). This is the device that the cameras connect to, which then communicates across your home network and out to the internet for access from your mobile app anywhere in the world. The hub really sets apart Arlo from its competition as it ensures reliable, fast connection and can greatly increase battery life.
There are two main options for base stations in Arlo: the SmartHub or Base Station. There are also versions of SmartHub that come with a siren. The SmartHub stations connect with the most models of camera, have more features and connection are more stable and faster. The basic hub is a bit dated and limited to some of the older camera models.
The SmartHub with siren can be set to trigger depending on certain conditions. You can also be triggered manually via the mobile app. It’s reassuring to be able to set an alarm from your mobile app, whether you’re at home or away.
In order to connect to your cameras from the internet, a wire connection is required between the base station and your router. This is necessary to be able to access the cameras from your smartphone and also access clips stored in the cloud. If you do not want to sign up to cloud storage, you can also store your video locally using the USB port.
Charging and batteries
The cameras have batteries that last for ages. And there are several options for charging the batteries.
- In-Camera Charging. The batteries can be charged while in the camera using the micro USB cable. If you have an outlet nearby, you can also leave them
plugged in so you always have power. This is especially handy if you need to go on vacation and want to ensure that you don’t lose connectivity or power while you’re away. However, in-camera charging does mean you have to have a power source nearby. - Charging Station. There’s also teh option to remove the battery and use the
charging station which comes with the systems (and if not can be
purchased separately). This is a great option but means you should buy
extra batteries so you can use your camera(s) while the other battery is
charging. - Solar-panel Charging. This is an excellent option for outdoor cameras, and especially those that are awkward to get to. This means you really never have to think about recharging the batteries!
The Arlo security camera’s battery life will be determined by how it is used. It’s difficult to predict how long the battery will last because the degree of motion detection and video recording will be unknown.
A rule of thumb is that Arlo security cameras will typically last between three and six months. Obviously, your battery life will be shorter if your camera is in high-traffic areas or subject to movement.
After you have charged all your cameras, for those that require it, you will need to pair them up with your base station. The mobile app will help you navigate the process. The initial setup is simple, so you won’t need to worry about any confusion.
If you have any issues, you can always unpair the camera from the base
station and then reconnect it.
Pairing your Arlo Cameras with the Base Station
The SmartHub makes it easier to connect than the Arlo basic Base Station. It’s also easier to manage the connections. The SmartHub will give you a better experience overall, regardless of whether it’s because you have newer software or more
advanced hardware.
The base station and SmartHub technology improve the efficiency of batteries and communication across the network, especially those with higher resolution and advanced features. But, not all Arlo cameras require a base station. There are a couple of models that can connect directly to the WiFi. There are also a couple models that can connect and be powered by Ethernet cables, which is probably the most reliable method, although it means physically having wires run from the router / Hub to the camera.
Quality and Recording
Arlo cameras produce some of the highest-quality video available on the market. They provide HD video resolution up to 4k, which means you can see clearly what is going on. They also feature night vision capabilities, so you can still watch what’s happening after dark. The IR LEDs can light up to 23+ feet, making it perfect for your driveway or porch. Even in the dark, you may see people clearly. Newer versions even feature high-resolution color night-vision capabilities.
With an Arlo subscription extra even more options become available. These include activity zones that allow you to target motion certain areas in the cameras field of view. Arlo’s excellent artificial intelligence can also help you filter different types of motion, determining whether a package has been dropped, or whether people or animals are in view. There’s even the option to call emergency response if you see anything that requires it.
You can also record sound with your Arlo security camera. The sound streams with your video feed and comes as a standard feature. You may opt to get notifications based on sounds rather than movement, or both. If you want, the camera can utilize both audio and video at the same time. The mobile app may also be used to interact with someone through the camera.
Arlo Notification Options
If you wish to take a back seat, you can use Arlo in a basic plug ‘n play format and use the presets. You’ll receive notifications when movement/sound occur on a camera. However, the full set of features are really worth configuring as they provide a really helpful and reliable system.
Complex schedules can be set that “arm” the system. Based on how the different schedules are configured, Arlo will trigger alarm notifications and record the incidents based on the type of movement or sound, the location of movement (via activity zones), and even the cameras themselves, so that some cameras may be excluded from being armed. Several notification methods exist to alert you to an incident. These can all be configured in the smartphone app. The app can email alerts as well as send notifications straight on your smartphone. With a subscription, there are also options for various recording activities in the cloud and locally too.
Arlo even includes the option for geolocation. This feature allows you to arm or disarm your security system depending on where you are. It will arm when you leave and disarm when you return.
Arlo App and Access
The Arlo app has a sleek, simple design. The basic option doesn’t require you to subscribe, but it does limit the number of features you can access. You can save a video that your camera has captured, and download it. A subscription package is required to store it in the cloud.
Arlo doesn’t require a subscription in order to use its service. This makes it more affordable than other smart security systems. Arlo’s cameras can be set up without any monthly fees. You have the option to upgrade to more cameras and other security devices by not having to purchase a package.
Can Arlo Cameras Record Video Continuously?
CVR (continuous video recording) can be a great way to add security to areas that require 24 hours monitoring. Basically, CVR means the camera is constantly recording. It’s basically always on. CVR is a powerful technology that requires significant power. This means that not all cameras are capable of supporting it, especially those that rely on battery power. That’s why most wireless cameras will instead provide trigger events that are recorded so only footage of incidents are stored. This saves battery and network resources. However, it also means those cameras with the smartest technology can provide the most reliable footage when incidents actually do occur (such as the Arlo cameras).
The Requirements for Continuous Video Recording:
1) A compatible Arlo camera:
- Ultra, Ultra 2, Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 3 Floodlight, Q, Q Plus, Essential Indoor, or Baby camera
2) A 14-day or 30-day CVR subscription
3) An outdoor or indoor power adapter
- Arlo cameras must be plugged in to AC power to support CVR
- An outdoor power adapter must be used for the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight
4) A compatible Arlo Base Station or SmartHub
- Base Station/SmartHub not required for Arlo Q, Q Plus, or Baby cameras
You can enable CVR if you have one of the above-mentioned cameras. The plans are charged per camera. The first plan gives you access to 14-days of continuous recording storage and the second offers 30 days. You can find full details here. But to give you an idea, for someone in the USA, a 14-Day CVR Plan would be $9.99 for the first camera and $4.99 for each additional camera. A 30day CVR plan would be $19.99 for the first camera and $9.99 for each additional camera.
It’s important to note that Arlo does not support video downloads at this time, only access to them via the cloud. Arlo Wire-Free cameras do not have CVR capability. 1080p is the standard resolution for CVR recordings. The CVR options come at a pretty steep subscription cost, but remember, there is a lot of data being stored in the cloud and that comes at a price. You have the reassurance that all your continuous footage has been recorded and can be accessed.
Arlo Wireless Cameras
Arlo has a growing lineup of cameras. I have had the most experience with Arlo Pro 2 cameras. In fact I have ten Pro 2 cameras around my home, the majority outside, and I would thoroughly recommend them. I have been extremely happy but also very impressed by their performance but these models have been superseded by several other models since. Below is a listing of Arlo’s device lineup at the of publishing. They are innovating and developing other security products which are to be released in 2022/23 and which will complement their camera offerings.
There are five tiers of Arlo cameras:
- Arlo Pro line. The standard models (Pro, Pro 2, Pro 4 with vast range of excellent base features developed by Arlo)
- Arlo Ultra line. The most advanced. (Ultra, Ultra 2 with 4k resolution)
- Arlo Essential line: The most affordable (connecting directly to WiFi)
- Arlo Go line. The most portable (using LTE cellular technology)
- Arlo Baby. Specialty baby-cam
This table compares all the main features of each model.
Arlo Subscription Plans
Not all features are available with the basic plan. To unlock the full list of features, you’ll have to subscribe to the higher-paid plans. You can find detailed information on the features available under each subscription here.
For the free plan (no plan), the cloud recording is limited for the newer camera models and with the older models, the number of cameras is limited. However, since the newer models are replacing the older ones and carry more features, it is likely you will have newer devices and want cloud storage. That means more than likely ypou will require one of the paid plans.
The Arlo paid plans come in two flavors: a mid-tier and a top-tier.
Arlo Secure Plan (Mid-Price)
An Arlo Secure subscription allows you to record to the Arlo cloud at up to 2K resolution with one camera or multiple cameras. You can save your clips to the Arlo library up to 30 days after you have finished recording.
Arlo Secure Plus Plan (Top Tier)
The Arlo Secure Plus unlocks differs from the Secure Plan in that it allows 4K video resolution to be recorded to the Arlo cloud. The clips can be saved to the Arlo library for 30 days after recording. Obviously if the cameras you have are not 4K capable, then you won’t need this Secure Plus Plan.
| Camera Availability | Number of cameras supported | Cloud recording | Person, Vehicle, Animal, and Package Detection | Smoke/CO Alarm Detection | Cloud Activity Zones | Interactive notifications | Emergency Response | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arlo Secure Unlimited | All | unlimited | Up to 2K (Rolling 30 days) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Arlo Secure Single Camera | All | 1 | Up to 2K (Rolling 30 days) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Arlo Secure Plus | All | Unlimited | Up to 4K (Rolling 30 days)* | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Free Plan (No Plan) | Ultra, Pro 4, Pro 3, Essential, Doorbell | Unlimited | None | No | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Free Plan (No Plan) | Pro 2, Pro, Q, Q Plus, Go, Baby | 5 | Up to 1080p (Rolling 7 days) | No | No | No | No | Yes | No |
*Arlo Secure Plus European plans offer 60 days of cloud storage.
Arlo Subscription Plan Pricing
Below you can find the pricing for the Arlo Plans. If you are in another country, refer to the official Arlo site here.
| ? | Currency | Arlo Secure Multi-Camera | Arlo Secure Plus Multi-Camera | Arlo Secure Single Camera |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 9.99 | 14.99 | 2.99 |
| Canada | CAD | 13.49 | 19.99 | 3.99 |
| Europe | EUR | 9.99 | 14.99 | 2.99 |
| UK | GBP | 8.99 | 12.99 | 2.79 |
| Australia | AUD | 14.99 | 21.99 | 4.49 |
Camera Details
All Arlo cameras are excellent. However, they don’t all offer the same features. As Arlo has released new models, new features have also been introduced. This table and the sections that follow describe some of the main features of each camera.
Arlo Q Indoor Camera
The Arlo Q is the only camera from Arlo that is solely intended for indoor
use. The camera delivers 1080p HD image quality and infrared night vision. It also offers two-way communication and a wide viewing angle of 130 degrees. This camera is easy to install, performs well and looks great wherever it’s placed. It’s a great nanny cam too. It is discreet but is very reliable during night-time operation with it’s excellent infrared imaging.
Arlo Q differs from the other lines of Arlo cameras. It doesn’t require a base station and it doesn’t use batteries. It does however come with a free rolling 7-day cloud storage plan. This means that you may be able to avoid the monthly Arlo subscription plans, which can get pricey, depending on the tier. That makes this
indoor camera a great option given it’s excellent features and image quality.
The Arlo Q currently sells as a 2-camera package for $349.99. No additional base station (Smarthub) is needed. An Arlo Q Plus is also available for $349.99. It adds an Ethernet (PoE), adapter to the package as an option to power the devices and also provides hard wired communication to your network rather than WiFi only.
While a great performer, the Arlo Q is not cheap. There are less -expensive alternatives out there for sure, such as the Blink range from Amazon. A Blink indoor camera can be purchased for ~$80 and it provides a similar quality and feature set.
Arlo Essential Camera
Arlo Essential is the brand’s most affordable camera. This camera is simple
and straightforward, with motion detection and two-way audio. It also has excellent 1080p HD resolution. The affordability comes at a cost- eliminating the advanced features that have become staple to the Arlo suite of cameras. That means, for example, no smart motion technology or 2k resolution.
It is still rugged and weather-resistant. Plus it contains an impressive integrated motion-triggered spotlight. And at $129.99 it’s a great option to add to an existing Arlo system, but it also operates well as a standalone camera too.
The Arlo Essential can be purchased as a multi-pack and does not require a base station (Smarthub). A 3-pack is ~$349 and saves you about $40 compared to buying it individually.
Arlo Pro 2
It’s been around for a little while now, but the Arlo Pro 2 packs a punch still. It has been tried and tested. It is a really reliable device with great features, a handsome design and is weather-resistant The technology introduced with the Arlo 2 provides some extra features that are very useful. For example, it’s 3-second lookback captures activity three seconds before it triggers. This provides much better context for any recorded incident.
As with all the outdoor Arlo models, installation is a breeze. No wires, not drilling. Just install the mount and stick the camera with it’s powerful magnet. There are other more flexible mounting options too, which have been easy to install and reliable in
operation.
The camera batteries will typically last 6 months under “normal” use, a great feature made possible byt the Smarthub.
The Arlo Pro2 camera is available for $179.99. However, it requires a Smarthub. The Arlo Pro 2 camera is also available in multi-pack systems. This is the system I have used and continue to use. It has been exceptionally reliable. The image quality is brilliant, night vision works well, and the smart activity zones and flexible scheduling mean less false alarms to worry about.
Arlo Pro 3
Arlo Pro 3 adds some features to its hugely popular predecessor the Pro 2.These
additions include a really useful, bright spotlight, color night-vision and wider 160-degree viewing angles, all with 2K HDR resolution. The 2k imaging is reliable unless of course there are WiFi interruption or lags on your network.
The camera can be purchased as a single camera add-on for your existing Arlo system for $199.99, or in multi-packs or with a SmartHub. A 2-camera Pro 3 system with Smarthub will set you back $499.99. As previously mentioned, the higher-performing range of Arlo cameras from Pro require a SmartHub. This ensures better quality and performance. While there are some much cheaper options out there, the technology and performance offered by Arlo Pro 3 is usually superior.That said, Arlo Pro 3 is for you if you are on a strict budget. So, perhaps one of the Lorex cameras may be a better more affordable option.
Arlo Pro 4
Arlo’s most recent release in the Pro range is the Pro 4. It builds on all the best features found in the Pro 2 and Pro 3, continuing to offer the incredible awesome 2K resolution, color night vision, smart object recognition, two-way communication and seamless home automation. But now the smart-nature is enhanced further. The Pro 4 includes Apple Watch integration making it so much more accessible, no matter where you find yourself.
Another useful security feature is the built-in siren. This can be triggered automatically with an incident, or you can do it yourself manually.
Where the Pro 4 diverges from the previous Pro models it’s connection to your WiFi. It doesn’t require a Smarthub. Instead, it connects directly to your WiFi network.
The Pro 4 is the same price as the Pro 3 but because it doesn’t require a Smarthub, it could potentially be a cheaper option.
Arlo Go
While Arlo is usually marketed as a home security camera system, Arlo’s Go line extends their application beyond the home.
The Arlo Go camera is the only one in Arlo’s range that requires a contract. It must be purchased with a plan from a major operator, as it operates on LTE networks. That’s right, it is a cellular-based camera.
Arlo Go is similar to Arlo Essential and isn’t as feature-heavy as some of the other Arlo cameras. However, it performs the basics extremely well.
The emphasis on battery-life and an extended wide-angled motion detector make for significant flexibility. Because the camera function is dependent on a contract, prices will vary depending on the carrier.
Arlo Ultra 2
With the Ultra, Arlo was the first brand to venture into 4K technology. The first generation of Arlo Ultra has been discontinued but the Arlo Ultra 2 is an incredibly powerful successor. The field of vision increased to a whopping 180 degrees and the color night vision is incredibly sharp and detailed.
The big deal with the Ultra 2 though is it’s 4K resolution. 4K is the best possible resolution for security cameras. It is stunning. However, this means that you will need to have a strong Wi-Fi connection in order to transmit all data smoothly.
Ultra 2 is Arlo’s most expensive camera at $299. It does require a SmartHub to help with the performance of all that mind-blowing technology zipping across your network as well as the energy draw on your batteries.
Arlo Baby
The Arlo Baby is a specialty camera. You can see that from the picture. This is not a strict security camera. Instead it offers some unique features for a specific function: for monitoring and even communicating with your baby. And Arlo has packaged their technology in cuteness.
Arlo Baby has 1080p HD image quality, multi-colored nightlights, air sensors, and lullaby music. Arlo has used their AI know-how to make Baby differentiate between different types of noises so that it knows whether it’s your baby crying or some other noise. The camera comes in a choice of three cute covers.
The Arlo Baby is a few notches above your regular baby cam and so is the price at $199.
Arlo Video Doorbell
The Arlo video doorbell comes in wired and wireless models. With live video and audio, you can stay connected to your house from anyplace, just as with thwe other Arlo models. Get alerts on your phone when motion is detected by the Wired Video Doorbell. With a wide 180-degree field of view, you can see all aroundyour front door. The wired version connects to existing doorbell wiring for constant electricity. Alexa and Google Assistant compatible.
The Final Score
With over 4 million customers, Arlo is definitely one of the most successful wireless security camera systems out there. With a history of continuous development in features and smart technology, Arlo has also been one of the key players in pushing the DIY home security industry forward. While the prices are not cheap for Arlo
cameras, and paid subscriptions are required for the advanced features offered by Arlo systems, you do get what you pay for. And Arlo’s reliable, weather-proof, technology with a bunch load of features that are also practical and easy to use makes Arlo a firm recommendation… if your budget allows.
Extra Details- Camera Features Comparison
| Arlo | Arlo Pro | Arlo Pro 2 | Arlo Pro 3 | Arlo Pro 4 | Arlo Ultra 2 | Arlo Go | Arlo Q | Arlo Q Plus | Arlo Baby | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Video resolution | 720p | 720p | 1080p HD | 2K HD HDR | 2K HD HDR | 4K Ultra HD HDR | 720p | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD |
| Frames per Second | ~24 FPS | 30 FPS | 30 FPS | 30 FPS | 30 FPS | 30 FPS | 30 FPS | 30 FPS | 30 FPS | 30 FPS |
| Video Format | H.264 | H.264 | H.264 | H.264 / H.265 | H.264 / H.265 | H.264 / H.265 | H.264 | H.264 | H.264 | H.264 |
| On-Demand Live View | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| Record Live View | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| Field of View | 110° | 110° | 130° | 160° | 160° | 180° | 110° | 130° | 130° | 110° (adjustable up to 130°) |
| Zoom | 8x digital zoom | 8x digital zoom | 8x digital zoom | 12x digital zoom | 12x digital zoom | 12x digital zoom Auto-zoom & track | 8x digital zoom | 8x digital zoom | 8x digital zoom | 8x digital zoom |
| Power | Non-rechargeable Batteries | Rechargeable Battery/AC | Rechargeable Battery/AC | Rechargeable Battery/AC | Rechargeable Battery/AC | Rechargeable Battery/AC | AC or Battery | AC | AC or PoE | AC main Battery for short periods |
| Optional Power Source | No | Solar Panel | Solar Panel | Solar Panel | Solar Panel | Solar Panel | Solar Panel | No | PoE | No |
| Battery Life | N/A | Battery: 3-6 months Solar: indefinitely | Battery: 3-6 months Solar: indefinitely | Battery: 3-6 months Solar: indefinitely | Battery: 3-6 months Solar: indefinitely | Battery: 3-6 months Solar: indefinitely | Battery: 3-6 months Solar: indefinitely | N/A | N/A | 3-6 hours |
| Two-Way Audio | No | Yes | Yes, noise canceling. | Yes, noise canceling. | Duplex, noise canceling | Dual, noise-canceling microphones | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Motion Detection | Up to 23 feet | Up to 23 feet | Up to 23 feet | Up to 23 feet | Up to 23 feet | Yes | Up to 23 feet | Up to 50 feet | Up to 50 feet | Up to 50 feet |
| Motion Zones (built-in) | No | No | Up to 3 activity zones when plugged-in | 3 multi-point zones | 3 multi-point zones | 3 multi-point zones | No | Up to 3 activity zones | Up to 3 activity zones | Up to 3 activity zones |
| Person Detection | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription |
| Facial Recognition | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Sound Detection | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes Plus Baby Crying Alert |
| Night Vision | 850 nm LEDs: illuminates up to 25 feet IR cut-off filter | 850 nm LEDs: illuminates up to 25 feet IR cut-off filter | 850 nm LEDs: illuminates up to 25 feet IR cut-off filter | Color night vision. 25 ft IR illumination. IR cut-off filter | Color night vision. 25 ft IR illumination. IR cut-off filter | Color night vision. 25 ft IR illumination. IR cut-off filter | 850 nm LEDs: illuminates up to 25 feet IR cut-off filter | 850 nm LEDs: illuminates up to 25 feet IR cut-off filter | 850 nm LEDs: illuminates up to 25 feet IR cut-off filter | 940 nm LEDs: illuminates up to 15 feet IR cut-off filter |
| Internet Connection | WiFi: 2.4GHz | WiFi: 2.4GHz | WiFi: 2.4GHz | WiFi: 2.4 & 5GHz | WiFi: 2.4 & 5GHz | WiFi: 2.4 & 5GHz | LTE | WiFi: 2.4 & 5GHz | WiFi: 2.4 & 5GHz Ethernet PoE | WiFi: 2.4 & 5GHz |
| Requires a Base Station | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes, Arlo SmartHub | No | No | No | No |
| Max # of Cameras per Base Station | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | – | – | – | – |
| Siren | No/via the Arlo Pro station only | Via the Base | Via the Base | Via the Base | Yes, in camera | Yes, in camera | No | No | No | No |
| 24/7 Recording | No | No | Optional when plugged-in | Optional when plugged-in | Optional when plugged-in | Optional when plugged-in | No | Optional | Optional | Optional |
| Local Backup Storage | No/via the Pro Base Only | Via the Pro Base | Via the Pro Base | Via the Pro Base | Via the Pro Base | SD Card (Arlo SmartHub) | Built-in SD card slot | No | Built-in SD card slot | No |
| Cloud Storage | 7-Day Free / Subscription | 7-Day Free / Subscription | 7-Day Free / Subscription | 7-Day Free / Subscription | 7-Day Free / Subscription | 7-Day Free / Subscription | 7-Day Free / Subscription | 7-Day Free / Subscription | 7-Day Free / Subscription | 7-Day Free / Subscription |
| Review, Share, & Save | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| e911 Emergency Call | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | Included for 1 year | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription |
| Instant App Alerts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| App Support | Android, iOS, FireOS, Web | Android, iOS, FireOS, Web | Android, iOS, FireOS, Web | Android, iOS, FireOS, Web | Android, iOS, FireOS, Web | Android, iOS, FireOS, Web | Android, iOS, FireOS, Web | Android, iOS, FireOS, Web | Android, iOS, FireOS, Web | Android, iOS, FireOS, Web |
| Rich Notifications | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription | With Subscription |
| Weather-resistant | IP65 rating | IP65 rating | IP65 rating | IP65 rating | IP65 rating | IP65 rating | IP65 rating | No | No | No |
| LED Lights | Sold Separately | Sold Separately | Sold Separately | Built-in Spotlight | Built-in Spotlight | Built-in Spotlight | No | No | No | Smart Multi-Colored Night Light |
| Smart Music Player | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Air Sensors | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Amazon Alexa | Echo Show, Echo Spot | Echo Show, Echo Spot | Echo Show, Echo Spot | Echo Show, Echo Spot | Echo Show, Echo Spot | Echo Show, Echo Spot | Echo Show, Echo Spot | Echo Show, Echo Spot | Echo Show, Echo Spot | Echo Show, Echo Spot |
| Google Assistant | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Google Home Hub | N/A | Yes | N/A | Yes | Yes | Yes | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| IFTTT | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Zapier | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| SmartThings | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Operating Temperature | 14° to 122° F | -4° to 113° F | -4° to 113° F | -4° to 113° F | -4° to 113° F | -4° to 113° F | -4° to 113° F | Indoors | Indoors | Indoors |
| Dimension | 2.8 x 1.7 x 2.6 in | 3.1 x 1.9 x 2.8 in | 3.1 x 1.9 x 2.8 in | 3.1 x 1.9 x 2.8 in | 3.5 x 2.73 x 3 in | 2.75 x 2.80 x 4.50 in | 2.75 x 2.80 x 4.50 in | 4.3 x 2.6 x 2.5 in | ||
| Color | White | White | White | White / Black | White / Black | White / Black | White | White | White | White |