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Arlo Pro Review

Yaro

February 21, 2017

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As we have promised in our review of the Netgear Arlo Q security camera, we will also discuss the Arlo Pro version, so here it is our Arlo Pro Security Camera Review.

The main difference between the recently released Arlo Pro and the Arlo Q is that while the Arlo Q is strictly for indoor usage, the Arlo Pro can also be used outdoor, and is supported with an excellent durability to withstand all kinds of weathers.

We really liked that it retains the built-in battery feature, which is a rarity for outdoor cameras. In fact, the battery is improved from the Arlo Q, where the Arlo Q’s battery will only last for about 2-months, the Arlo Pro’s can last for 6 months or so. A necessary improvement, considering for outdoor usage, you might need to place the camera in a hard to reach placement, so it will be a hassle to recharge it every couple of months or so.

Other key additions are the improved, wider angle motion detection technology, and the built-in 100+ dB alarm siren, similar to the technology found on the new Ring Floodlight Cam. These two features might be the trend for newer best home security camera.

However, it sacrifices a bit in video quality, sporting only a 720p resolution compared to Arlo Q’s excellent 1080p resolution.

Let us begin the Arlo Pro Review by discussing its key benefits and qualities.

Key Features

Weatherproof

Being intended for outdoor usage (although can also be used indoor), the weatherproof construction is excellent and can withstand even the worst snowy conditions.

Wire-Free

Netgear marketed this product as the world’s first 100% wire-free outdoor camera with its built-in removable battery (Although we felt that the Ring Stick Up Cam achieved the same purpose earlier). As we have mentioned, the battery can last for six months, which serves the purpose very well. It certainly adds more flexibility in terms of placement, as you can install the Arlo Pro anywhere without thinking about wiring.

Advanced Motion Detection

Among the best of its class, comparableonly to the new Ring Floodlight Cam. Very accurate and reliable with a wide field of detection. Also, it still features Arlo Q’s very excellent sound detection, which the Ring Floodlight Cam doesn’t have. Definitely, adds a new dimension to your home security.

Local Backup Storage and Free Cloud Storage

You can simply plug in a USB-based storage (flash drive or even hard disk) to store your footage, and Netgear provides a free cloud storage service equals to 7-day of event time (can be upgraded to 30 or 60 days worth with monthly subscription). A very nice feature, especially for commercial venues.

Our Review

The package for Arlo Q came with the following items:

Arlo Pro smart security camera
Rechargeable battery
Base station with built-in siren
Power adapter
Power cable
Ethernet cable
Wall mount
Wall mount screw set
Quick start guide
Window decal

As you can see, it seems more ‘advanced’ and complicated compared to other similar products. You may see that the product itself comprised of two units: the base station, and the camera itself. The base station will act as a hub, connected to your home or venue’s internet with an ethernet connection. You can use multiple cameras with a single hub (up to 4), so if you are planning to buy multiple cameras, you will only need to purchase one base station.

The base station can also act as a Wi-Fi extender, and you can place the base station in your Wi-Fi’s maximum range to effectively extend its range, if necessary.

The installation process is very easy. You plug in the battery, connect the base station, download the app and follow the step-by-step instruction, and it is ready to go. Again, simplicity and ease of use is the specialty of the Arlo product line.

Performance-wise, we definitely see the improvement on the motion detection system, and considering the Arlo Q’s motion sensor is already excellent, it is saying a lot. The most noticeable change is the wider motion detection field, which although not officially stated, we felt that it is around 270-degrees, comparable to that of the Ring Floodlight Cam.

The sound detection technology remains excellent and is certainly one of the key benefits of this product.

We noticed the drop in video quality from 1080p found on the Arlo Q to a more meager 720p, but it is still a sufficient quality. However, the night vision technology is improved a lot from the Arlo Q, and it performs a lot better in that regard.

You Should Buy This If

If you are looking for a hassle-free, wire-free outdoor camera, this is certainly one of the best, most advanced options with all the latest technology. The only major downside is the 720p only video quality, but to be honest, it is sufficient enough to serve its main purpose: security, not beauty.

If you already used Samsung SmartThings as your smart home system, the Arlo Pro will integrate perfectly, and will certainly be your best option. Being totally wire-free, with the need of recharge only once every six months, you can also use it in hard to reach places.

Bottom Line

Let’s close this Netgear Arlo Pro review with a verdict: it is certainly one of the most advanced options available in the market today, featuring one of the best motion detection technology, paired with the excellent sound detection system. Its weatherproof construction is excellent for outdoor usage, making it one of the best of its class.

The major downsides are only the 720p only video quality, as we have mentioned, and the lack of third-party integration options. However, Samsung SmartThings integrated perfectly with the Arlo Pro and it is on its own, a very reliable smart home system.

Summary

Reviewer

Yaro

Review Date

2017-02-21

Reviewed Item

Arlo Pro

Author Rating

5

Product Name

Arlo Pro Smart Camera