Arlo is a well-known brand in the world of smart home security. They offer a range of devices designed to keep your home safe, and the Arlo Doorbell is no exception.
This doorbell combines video monitoring, motion detection, and two-way audio, making it more than just a traditional doorbell.
It’s designed to help you see who’s at your door, even when you’re not home. The Arlo Doorbell also integrates with other smart devices, giving you full control through your phone.
It’s a perfect fit for anyone looking to upgrade their home security system.
Table of Contents
Pros and Cons of the Arlo Doorbell:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. High-Quality Video | 1. Subscription Required for Full Features |
| Offers 1536p HD video resolution with HDR for clear images, even at night. | Some features, like cloud storage and advanced AI detection, require a paid subscription. |
| 2. Two-Way Audio | 2. Installation Complexity |
| Allows for real-time communication with visitors through the app. | Installation may be challenging for those unfamiliar with wiring or technical setups. |
| 3. Motion Detection | 3. Limited Local Storage |
| Equipped with advanced motion detection, providing alerts for any movement. | The device has limited local storage capabilities without a subscription. |
| 4. Integration with Smart Home Devices | 4. Requires Wi-Fi Connection |
| Works seamlessly with other smart home systems, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. | Needs a stable Wi-Fi connection for optimal performance and may be affected by network issues. |
| 5. Weather Resistant | 5. Price Point |
| Built to withstand various weather conditions, making it durable for outdoor use. | Higher initial cost compared to some competitors, which may deter budget-conscious buyers. |
Consumer Survey
| Aspect | Rating (1-5) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Video Quality | 4.5 | Users praise the clarity of 1536p resolution and HDR. |
| Audio Quality | 4.2 | Generally clear, but some users report occasional lag. |
| Ease of Installation | 3.5 | Installation can be tricky; some users prefer professional help. |
| App Usability | 4.0 | User-friendly interface, but some features may be confusing. |
| Motion Detection Accuracy | 4.3 | Generally reliable; however, some users report false alerts. |
| Two-Way Communication | 4.4 | Good sound quality, allowing effective communication with visitors. |
| Integration with Smart Home | 4.6 | Seamless integration with Alexa, Google Home, and others. |
| Customer Support | 3.8 | Support is helpful but may have long wait times. |
| Value for Money | 4.0 | Many find the quality justifies the price, despite subscription costs. |
| Overall Satisfaction | 4.2 | Most users are satisfied with performance and features. |
Design & Build Quality – Arlo Doorbell Review
The Arlo Doorbell impresses with its sleek and minimal design, making it a stylish addition to any home entrance. It combines both aesthetics and durability, ensuring it stands up to daily use and harsh weather conditions.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Sleek, modern, and minimalistic design that fits seamlessly with any home style.
- Materials Used: Built with durable, weather-resistant materials for long-lasting performance.
- Physical Features: Well-placed button, clear camera positioning, and a discreet speaker for optimal functionality.
Installation Process
Installing the Arlo Doorbell is straightforward, even for beginners. With a few tools and clear instructions, you can have it up and running in no time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Step 1: Unbox your Arlo Doorbell and ensure all components are included.
- Step 2: Download the Arlo app and create or log into your account.
- Step 3: Make sure your home’s Wi-Fi is ready and strong enough at the doorbell location.
- Step 4: Use the included screws to mount the doorbell to your wall or doorframe.
- Step 5: Connect the doorbell wiring (if replacing an existing wired doorbell) or use it wire-free.
- Step 6: Sync the doorbell with the Arlo app following the on-screen instructions.
- Step 7: Test the video feed and adjust the camera angle if needed for a perfect view.
Video & Audio Quality
The Arlo Doorbell offers impressive video and audio quality, ensuring you never miss any detail at your doorstep. Whether it’s day or night, the doorbell delivers clear visuals and sound for seamless communication.
- Camera Resolution: Offers sharp video in 1080p or higher, with a wide field of view to capture every angle.
- Night Vision: Provides clear, detailed images even in low light, ensuring visibility 24/7.
- Two-Way Audio: Crystal-clear sound quality with real-time response for easy communication with visitors or delivery personnel.
App Integration & Usability
The Arlo app is designed to make managing your doorbell simple and efficient. With user-friendly controls, it offers a seamless experience for monitoring your home from anywhere.
- App Overview: The Arlo app allows you to access live video, past recordings, and manage settings from your smartphone.
- Ease of Navigation: Intuitive interface that makes it easy to view live video, receive notifications, and review cloud-stored footage.
- Customization Options: Tailor motion detection sensitivity, set up alert zones, and control notification preferences to suit your specific security needs.
Key Features of Arlo Doorbell
The Arlo Doorbell is packed with advanced features that enhance both convenience and security. It seamlessly integrates with your smart home system while offering flexible storage options and cutting-edge technology.
- Motion Detection & Alerts: Detects movement at your door and instantly sends notifications to your phone.
- Storage Options: Choose between cloud storage for easy access or local storage for greater control over your video data.
- Smart Home Integration: Works smoothly with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit for voice control and automation.
- Advanced Security Features: Includes tamper detection and facial recognition to boost your home’s security.
Performance
The Arlo Doorbell delivers reliable performance with quick responses and accurate detection. It ensures you’re always in the loop when it comes to visitors or movement at your door.
- Response Time: Sends notifications almost instantly and provides quick access to live video feeds with minimal delay.
- Motion Detection Accuracy: Effectively detects movement with minimal false alerts, ensuring relevant notifications.
- Power Source: Offers stable performance with both wired connections or a long-lasting battery for wire-free setups, depending on your preference.
Privacy & Security
Arlo takes privacy and security seriously, providing multiple safeguards to protect your data and enhance user control over stored footage.
- Data Encryption: All video streams and stored data are encrypted, ensuring your information stays secure.
- Subscription Plans: Offer cloud storage options, with premium plans providing longer retention of video recordings and advanced features like smart alerts.
- User Control: Allows full control over your recordings, including when to store, access, or delete footage from the cloud, putting privacy in your hands.
Pricing
The Arlo Doorbell is competitively priced, offering strong features at a reasonable cost compared to rivals like Ring and Google Nest. Its pricing reflects the quality of service and security it provides.
- Competitor Comparison: While Ring and Google Nest offer similar smart doorbell features, Arlo stands out with its integration options and advanced motion detection.
- Value for Money: Arlo delivers a great balance of features like video quality and smart home integration, making it worth the price for those seeking top-tier security.
- Subscription Fees: Optional Arlo Secure plans add cloud storage, smart alerts, and extended video history for a reasonable monthly fee.
Comparison with Competitors
When choosing a smart doorbell, it’s essential to consider how the Arlo Doorbell stacks up against its competitors. Here’s a brief comparison with some leading alternatives in the market:
- Ring Doorbell: Offers a wider variety of models and price points, but its video quality can be slightly lower compared to the Arlo Doorbell’s 1536p HD resolution.
- Nest Hello: Known for its seamless integration with Google Assistant and smart home ecosystems, but lacks some of the advanced motion detection features found in Arlo.
- Eufy Security Video Doorbell: Provides local storage options without a subscription, appealing to budget-conscious users, but may not have the same video clarity or smart features as Arlo.
A comparison table of the Arlo Doorbell with its key competitors:
| Feature/Brand | Arlo Doorbell | Ring Doorbell | Nest Hello | Eufy Security Video Doorbell |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Video Quality | 1536p HD with HDR | 1080p HD | 1600p HD | 2K HD |
| Audio Quality | High-quality two-way audio | Good audio quality | Excellent audio quality | Good audio quality |
| Motion Detection | Advanced motion detection with alerts | Basic motion detection | Smart alerts with person detection | Customizable motion detection |
| Storage Options | Cloud storage (subscription required) | Cloud storage (subscription required) | Cloud storage (subscription required) | Local storage available (no subscription) |
| Smart Home Integration | Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and more | Works with Alexa and Google Assistant | Seamless with Google Assistant | Works with Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Installation | Can be complex for some users | Generally easy installation | Easy installation | Easy installation |
| Price Range | Higher initial cost | Varied price points available | Higher price point | Mid-range price |
| Overall Satisfaction | Generally high satisfaction | High user satisfaction | Very high satisfaction | High user satisfaction |
Final Word
The Arlo Doorbell excels in design, video quality, and smart home integration, making it a top choice for those seeking a high-quality, reliable security solution.
Its features like customizable motion detection and two-way audio make it ideal for homeowners, tech enthusiasts, and renters who prioritize security.
However, the higher price and subscription plans may be drawbacks for some. Overall, it’s a strong contender in the market, earning an 8.5/10 for its functionality and ease of use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arlo Doorbell worth it?
Yes, the Arlo Doorbell is worth it for users seeking reliable security. It offers high-quality video, two-way audio, and smart home compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant. Its motion detection and customizable notifications enhance home security, making it a valuable investment.
Does Arlo Doorbell need a subscription?
While the Arlo Doorbell works without a subscription, you’ll need an Arlo Secure plan for cloud storage and advanced features like AI-based motion detection and package alerts. Without a plan, you only get live streaming and basic notifications for events.
How does Arlo Doorbell connect to Wi-Fi?
The Arlo Doorbell connects to Wi-Fi via the Arlo app. During setup, it guides you through linking the doorbell to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. A strong, stable connection is essential for smooth video streaming and receiving timely alerts.
Does the Arlo Doorbell have night vision?
Yes, the Arlo Doorbell includes night vision, allowing you to monitor your entryway even in low-light conditions. It uses infrared technology to capture clear footage at night, ensuring 24/7 security and visibility regardless of the lighting around your front door.