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Arlo Camera of 2024 Review: Pros, Cons, and Verdict

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Arlo Essential Spotlight Wireless Camera

Review Summary

Our Final Verdict
We give Arlo Camera a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Editor Rating:
Build Quality:
Features:
Price:

Arlo is a camera that works with your smartphone to add an affordable security system to your home. It’s packed with features that can help keep your family safe. If you are thinking about getting an Arlo camera but would like to know more about it first, keep reading as we take an in-depth look at it and list all its pros and cons so you can make an informed purchase.

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Arlo Camera — A Quick Look

Arlo VMC2030 essential wireless camera

Pros
  • Quick notification
  • Call help with one-touch
  • Clear image
  • Small size
  • Object detection
  • Wireless
Cons
  • Battery loses charge quickly
  • No online storage without a subscription

Specifications

Brand Name Arlo
Model VMC 2030 – 100NAS
Country of Origin Vietnam
Height 3 inches
Width 2 inches
Depth 3.5 inches
Weight 1.65 pounds
Battery Lithium polymer
Battery Included Yes
Maximum Camera Resolution 1080p
Maximum Camera Field of View 130 degrees
Water Resistant Yes
Night Vision Type Color
Motion Range Detection Single motion sensor
Connects to Wi-Fi Yes
Lighting Type Integrated spotlight

Integrates With your Smartphone

One of the biggest advantages of using the Arlo camera system is that it integrates with your smartphone using a free app. This means you get notified immediately if the system detects a problem. You can also set the object detection so your security system can tell the difference between an intruder, a package, a vehicle, or a pet. You can see the camera image to check what is going on at all times. The one-touch button enables you to alert the authorities immediately if you notice any problems.

Arlo VMC2030-100NAR Spotlight Wireless Camera
Image Cedit: Arlo, Amazon

Indoor and Outdoor Cameras

Many people put a camera on the front porch, but the Arlo system lets you use multiple cameras at once, so you can watch the backdoor and the garage too. You can also choose between indoor and outdoor cameras so you can use them to check on pets or to document evidence of a break-in.

Cloud Storage

A great benefit of the Arlo system is that it connects with cloud storage, so recordings are securely saved and available when you need them. Cloud storage is also much more convenient than connecting your phone to a home PC or laptop.

Ease of Use

One of the best things about Arlo cameras is that they’re completely wireless, so you can install them yourself in just a few minutes. Many of the outdoor cameras have built-in floodlights, so you won’t need to install additional lighting. The floodlights will also make it easier to find your keys and get into your home after dark.

Subscription-Based Storage

The biggest downside of using Arlo cameras is that the cloud storage is subscription based, so if you don’t want to make monthly payments, you’ll need to store the videos on your phone, which can quickly fill up your memory.

FAQ

  • Can you view live video continuously? Yes, the Arlo system enables you to view the live video from any camera by using the app.
  • Do the cameras require an SD card? No, Arlo cameras do not require an SD card, but they work with a base that will need one.
  • Can you purchase a replacement battery? Yes, if your battery breaks or malfunctions, you can get a replacement by contacting customer service.
  • How long does the free trial last? When you purchase your Arlo cameras, they come with a 3-month plan, after which, you’ll need to subscribe or lose the features that came with it.
  • What’s the difference between having a service plan and not having one? The subscription plan enables you to save your videos in the cloud, which is much more convenient than using the SD card in the base. You also need the subscription for the person, vehicle, animal, package, smoke, and carbon-monoxide detection. The emergency response service is another feature that you will miss out on without the subscription. However, you will still receive remote and local live-streaming, two-way audio, push notifications, and local storage.
Arlo wireless camera
Image Credit: Arlo, Amazon

What the Users Say

We searched the internet to find out what other people were saying about Arlo speakers, and these are a few of the things that we found out.

  • Many people say that they are completely satisfied with Arlo cameras.
  • Many people say that the image quality of Arlo cameras is incredibly good.
  • Many people mention that they love the spotlight feature.
  • Many people mention that the motion detector works well.
  • Several people complain about losing cloud service when the free trial is up.
  • Several people mention that the batteries die quickly, so you’ll need to recharge them frequently.
  • A few people complain that if you don’t set up the system properly, it can drain the batteries quickly.
  • A few people mention that they have had problems with customer service at Arlo.

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Conclusion

Arlo cameras provide homeowners a security system that they can use with their smartphone to get a continuous live feed of the inside or outside of their home. It has plenty of features, including object detection and instant notification, and it’s easy to set up and use. The only downside is that the free trial expires after 3 months, and you’ll need to subscribe to a monthly payment to continue using many of the best features, like cloud storage. However, even without the subscription, it will still provide you with improved home security.


Featured Image Credit: Arlo, Amazon

About the Author Ed Malaker

Ed Malaker is a veteran writer who contributes to a wide range of blogs covering information on computer programming, pets, birding, tools, fitness, guitars, and optics. Outside of writing, Ed is often found working in the garden or performing DIY projects in the house. Ed is also a musician, spending his time composing music for independent films or helping people repair their guitars.