This Wireless Cam Nails the Basics and Doesn’t Break the Bank

I tested dozens of security cameras in the years of brands like Blink, Lorex, Ring and Arlo. No matter the model I look at, one thing is always constant: a camera with premium features will usually come with a high price. Prices for a single camera can easily cost $ 200 or even more. So when you try to create a system with several cameras, the total cost can become uncontrollable quickly.

What I like about the Arlo security camera

During the Test of the Came 2K essential Arlo, I found that the indoor-exterior wireless camera works well. The 2K resolution helps to bring together many details, it is very bad weather and the application of Arlo excels in step by step on how to configure and use the cam. The other common characteristics include bidirectional audio, color vision of color and an integrated mermaid.

Arlo has not yet finished. The integrated CAM projectors have done an excellent job to light up my backyard-and if you prefer other intelligent home platforms, it works well with Alexa and Google Home, as well as IFTTT (no Apple Homekit support at the moment but it is a possibility). To find out more, here are CNET choices for the best domestic safety systems.

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Arlo is gaining personalization in home safety conversation

I really liked what the Arlo Essential does, but it is not too different from what many other security cameras do – just surprisingly affordable. I really like the user interface of Arlo and the integration of the intelligent house, with an application easy to understand and opens for a quick glance at your home when you are in town (and that does not even require a subscription). It was the deeper personalization features that really impressed me.

Those who like to tinker with their home safety configuration will love the personalized detection options of the beta version which are delivered with higher level subscriptions, in addition to facial recognition and vehicles. I have not seen personalized configurations like this on any Another before security camera. In my tests, I was able to “teach” in cam to recognize when a pet toy appeared on the camera or when certain objects were no longer present.

I could also use this feature to tell me when the garage door has opened or if something precious (let’s say, a work of art) has disappeared. Likewise, vehicle detection options can say if a specific vehicle stops to your home. I have never seen something else like this for those who really want to push their safety at home at the limits.

Arlo Cams for yourself or for others

With the easy and informative configuration process of Arlo, the essential camera is an excellent choice even if you or your family have not tried a security camera before. As long as a user is comfortable trying a new application and following the instructions, Arlo is an excellent experience. I evaluate the application and user friendliness around Blink level, another of my favorite camera applications.

With an interior / outdoor placement, the camera is also versatile, so you don’t have to worry about people who do not find a place to use it. You can also spend a little more to upgrade the camera with an extended battery and a solar panel, an effective combo if you want to avoid manually loading the battery as much as possible. It still needs a Wi-Fi connection, but this combo is ideal for distant places like above my garage door or a highlight on the stairs.

If you are thinking of getting this Arlo camera as a gift, keep in mind that Arlo locks a lot of important features behind its monthly subscription over $ 8, including intelligent alerts with object recognition and video storage. Thus, although the camera is usable at no cost, there is a strong incentive to pay.

Arlo offers a free trial of its services, but it could look like a bait and a switch to give recipients who do not expect a security camera. If you want to offer CAM as a gift, you may want to add PayPal or Venmo money to cover at least several months with a subscription.

If you are looking for other options, see our full list of the best home safety cameras of 2025.