The world has never been as safe as it was before. Every day we keep on witnessing people dying from murders and accidents. Homes and big establishments are being robbed out by thieves and burglars. News after news of endless crimes is happening in today’s modern society. It’s confusing sometimes on where we should place ourselves in an unsecured world.
Arlo vs Arlo Pro vs Arlo Pro 2 – Which One is the Best?
This review will give a comparison to some of the best indoor and outdoor camera devices available for purchase today is Arlo vs Arlo Pro vs Arlo Pro 2. These NetGear’s premium cameras have been popular to surveillance camera enthusiasts and absolutely recommended by a lot of users.
Though it’s pretty obvious that Arlo Pro 2 has extra features as compared to its former versions, it does not mean that it’s the best among the three brands. Nonetheless, all are made for different purposes. They have all varying prices that will make you ponder around on what to purchase. As known, the upgraded version has the most expensive price. Likewise, Arlo Pro 2 comes with a lofty price.
If you’re a smart user, then you should know what your place just need. You won’t need Arlo Pro 2’s extra features if you’ll get contented with the previous version. Nonetheless, this review will not just compare but examine the differences and similarities of each product. In such way, you’ll get an idea of what version you are going to buy.
#1. Arlo by NETGEAR Security Camera vs. Arlo Pro by NETGEAR Security System
As the advent of security cameras began in the late 2000s, NetGear introduced its first indoor/outdoor camera version of Arlo camera series. Coming from the same name, this product has received positive reviews coming from different users. Though, there are still flaws in it.
Arlo |
After a few months, another version was released named Arlo Pro by NetGear. This new version was said to address the weaknesses that the former version had. Similar to its predecessor, this security camera has been critically acclaimed and had done well in sales.
Let’s examine the differences and similarities between the two models. Given the following;
Similarities:
• Works with Amazon Alexa for video viewing using voice command
• Live stream video viewing via the Arlo App to compatible Android and computer devices
• Allows night vision camera
• Weatherproof and water resistant camera
• Motion activated camera
• The camera resolution is 720p
• USB port is available for additional storage
• Functions on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi signals
• Multiple viewing of cameras on one screen
• Free cloud storage for 7 days in 5 cameras
• Email motion alerts and send notifications to smartphone devices
• White coated and rounded design
• Easy setup and utilization
• 100% wire free
Differences:
a. Battery Utilization
The Arlo relies on a single non-rechargeable battery for its operation. Nonetheless, you need to buy again another battery for it to stay powered. This is somehow a waste of money and effort. That is why the upgrade addresses the issue. Batteries are rechargeable into this new model.
Arlo Pro |
b. Two-Way Communication
The first generation Arlo Security Camera has no audio. This means that you are not going to hear a sound on the videos. As compared to Arlo Pro for which incorporates a built-in microphone and speaker for a well-detailed video coverage.
c. Field View
Surveillance on Arlo’s first generation captures 110 degrees angle view. The upgraded version increases about 20 degrees angle view. Thus, Arlo Pro enables 130 degrees wide angle view.
d. Resistance to Temperature
Both security cameras are weather resistant. However, the Arlo Pro thrives even to very extreme temperatures. Likewise, the first version of Arlo could operate up to 4 °C while Arlo Pro survives even at 0 °C.
e. Enhanced Base Station
The Arlo Pro’s security camera version has improved and more developed functionality as compared to the previous version.
f. Upgraded Motion Detection System
As to Arlo Security Camera, suspicious actions and movements are recognized readily for 8-9 seconds. With Arlo Pro, detection of these movements could go for 2-3 seconds. Also, Arlo pro uses a dual PIR device as compared to Arlo with only one. This signifies a faster functionality.
g. Zooming and Pause Camera Feature
Arlo Security camera does not have a video pause as to Arlo Pro. Likewise, there is no zooming function for the former.
h. Alarm and Sirens
Arlo Pro is equipped with a 100 dB siren. The previous version does not have to produce any sirens or alarms.
i. Compatibility with other Devices
Arlo Pro has higher compatibility with other smart devices than Arlo.
#2. Arlo Pro by NETGEAR Security System vs. Arlo Pro 2 by NETGEAR 2 Camera Security System
NetGear’s Arlo Pro was a success to the company. But nonetheless, other camera brands like Amazon Cloud Cam and Nest Cam had eventually surged over the market. With the existence of such overpowering brands, NetGear feels the need to improve and upgrade their current version of Arlo series and this stipulated the era of Arlo Pro 2.
Arlo Pro 2 |
Similarities of Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2
• Compatible with Smart Home Devices such as Amazon Alexa, SmartThings, and Google Home
• Weatherproof and Water resistant camera
• Free of power cords and wirings
• Battery is rechargeable
• 7 days free cloud recordings
• Two way audio communication
• Smart siren when motion or sound is detected
• Clear night vision
• Local backup USB storage
• Dimensions are identical
• Email and smart alerts as triggered by sound or motion
• Arming and disarming of cameras especially when not at home
• User-friendly and simple navigation App
• Easy setup and utilization
• Live streaming through Android and iOs devices such as smartphones and tablets
• Work with all Arlo base systems
• 130-degree wide angle view
Differences:
a. Video Resolution
You’ll notice that the resolution for Arlo Pro 2 security camera is sharper and clearer than Arlo Pro. This is seen whether you’re live streaming or recording. Arlo Pro 2 has a 1080p resolution while Arlo Pro has a 720p resolution.
b. Battery Life
Because Arlo Pro 2 has a Full HD 1080p Resolution, it is expected that the security camera has a short lifespan. Approximately, the battery life of Arlo Pro 2 is three months while the battery for Arlo Pro lasts ‘til 6 months.
c. Additional features During Plugged in
Unlike Arlo’s previous versions, this third generation of Arlo’s indoor/outdoor camera series could be plugged in. Nonetheless, this additional mode includes different features that other former models do not have. This Plugged in mode has three unique features. This includes the following;
• CVR (Continuous Video Recording)
If you purchase its monthly subscription, Arlo Pro 2 records continuously video as needed. In contrast, Arlo Pro records only 8-minute duration videos.
• Activity Zones
Arlo Pro 2 supports three rectangular shaped Activity Zones. Nonetheless, if the motion is detected within specific activity zones, then you’ll easily get notified.
• Look Back
This feature conserves the battery life of the device. This allows the camera to sleep between events. But nevertheless, don’t be worry because movements and actions will be saved as needed through its ‘3-second buffer’ action. In this way, you’ll never miss all important moments and events.
More: If you are looking for the best wireless backup cameras for your car, then click here.
Arlo vs Arlo Pro vs Arlo Pro 2: What Arlo’s Version Will Work for Me?
All of NetGear’s Arlo products have received good reviews coming from its users. If you’ve looked at it, the products have similar design and even dimensions. Also, all products are easy to install and use with comparable setup procedures. Likewise, all have the ability to capture night vision and are weather resistant. All of these camera brands are extra sensitive to motion and sound. Live streaming is also applicable to be viewed on various tablets and smartphones. The device functions an app named Arlo App. This app is used for control and regulation of video capturing. Likewise, all products send email alerts and notifications if there are unusual occurrences.
But nonetheless, all Arlo’s products have differences as well. There are certain features that one product does not have to another. Thus, the more upgraded the product is, the more features it has. Likewise, the more expensive the product will be.
Arlo Pro 2 is twice as expensive as its two predecessors. Additionally, Arlo Pro is just about few dollars as expensive as the first generation Arlo security camera.
That is why it is important for a user to evaluate what he needs in its place. You don’t want to employ a camera that includes a lot of maintenance and is really expensive. Buy something with features that just exactly fit into your place. Don’t purchase Arlo Pro 2 camera if you’ll just use it in a small place and oppositely, don’t buy Arlo if you’ll use it in a big establishment or place. Like in any aspect of life, it needs balance and careful planning before getting a certain decision.
P.S: If you’re looking for the best wireless IP security cameras to monitor your kids or pets, then check out this page.
Great comparison, after looking all comparison between these Arlo Security Cameras, I select one Arlo Pro 2 this is best one for me.
Good info. Will the arlo pro base station work with the plain arlo cameras?
Yes. Arlo Pro, Arlo HD, Arlo Pro 2 cameras all can work with all bases.