It’s intriguing to see how innovations in home security technology have reshaped our approach to safety. For instance, the Arlo Pro 4, an upgrade from the Pro 3, promises enhanced features that might just be the game-changer in the market. But how significant are these improvements, and do they justify the switch?
Arlo Pro 3, launched in 2019, quickly became known for its crisp 2K HDR video recording and wire-free design, setting a new standard in security cameras. However, the Pro 4, released in 2021, elevates this with a wider field of view and direct Wi-Fi connectivity, eliminating the need for a base station. These enhancements are not merely incremental; they offer practical solutions, streamlining installation and expanding coverage, which are critical for seamless home monitoring.
| Feature | Arlo Pro 3 | Arlo Pro 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Video Quality | 2K HDR | 2K HDR |
| Field of View | 160 degrees | 180 degrees |
| Connectivity | Requires Base Station | Direct Wi-Fi |
| Spotlight | Built-in | Built-in |
| Night Vision | Colored night vision | Colored night vision |
Overview of Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Pro 4
Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Pro 4 are popular home security cameras. They help keep homes safe by capturing clear videos. Let’s take a closer look at each model.
Overview of Arlo Pro 3
Arlo Pro 3 came out in 2019. It was a big hit because it offered 2K HDR video quality. The camera’s clarity is really impressive.
This model works without wires, making it easy to set up. You can place it just about anywhere around your home. It also has night vision.
The Pro 3 has a built-in spotlight. This helps capture clear videos even in the dark. The spotlight also scares away intruders.
Another cool feature is the siren. If someone tries to break in, it can make a loud noise. This helps alert you and neighbors.
Finally, the camera has a wide viewing angle. You can see a lot of your surroundings. All of these features make Pro 3 a strong choice for home security.
Overview of Arlo Pro 4
Arlo Pro 4 launched in 2021 as an upgrade. It kept many features of the Pro 3 but added new ones. One major change is how it connects.
You don’t need a base station for Pro 4. It connects directly to Wi-Fi. This makes setting it up even simpler.
The Pro 4 also has a wider field of view. You can see more with this camera compared to Pro 3. This added coverage is a big plus.
It still offers 2K HDR video quality and night vision. You get the same great video clarity. The built-in spotlight and siren are also included.
Overall, Arlo Pro 4 keeps what worked well in Pro 3. It adds improvements that make it even more user-friendly. It’s perfect for anyone looking for top-notch home security.
Key Features Compared
Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Pro 4 have many features. Some are the same, but others are different. Let’s look at these features and see how they compare.
Video Quality
Both cameras offer 2K HDR video quality. This means the videos are very clear and detailed. You can see faces and details better.
The HDR feature helps balance the light. Even in bright or dark areas, the video looks good. This is important for seeing everything clearly.
Pro 3 and Pro 4 both shine here. They capture important details in videos. This makes them both great for home security.
Even at night, the video quality is good. Both models have night vision. This helps you see clearly even in the dark.
Overall, the video quality is a strong point for both cameras. You can trust them to show clear and reliable footage. It’s a key feature that makes both models stand out.
Field of View
The field of view tells you how much area the camera can see. Arlo Pro 3 offers a wide view of 160 degrees. This is pretty good and covers a lot.
Arlo Pro 4 goes even further. It has a view of 180 degrees. This means you can see even more with Pro 4.
A bigger field of view is helpful. You can monitor more of your area. This is great for keeping an eye on things.
Both cameras cover a lot. But, Pro 4 wins here with its wider view. If seeing more is important, Pro 4 is the better choice.
Connectivity
Arlo Pro 3 needs a base station. This helps it connect and work. It’s an extra piece of equipment you need.
Arlo Pro 4 is different. It connects directly to Wi-Fi. You don’t need the base station.
This makes Pro 4 easier to set up. You just connect it to your Wi-Fi. It’s quick and simple.
Not needing a base station is a big plus. It makes the Pro 4 very user-friendly. If you like simple setups, Pro 4 is the one to pick.
Spotlight and Siren
Both cameras have a built-in spotlight. This helps light up areas at night. The light is bright and clear.
The spotlight can also scare away intruders. It’s very helpful for night security. Both Pro 3 and Pro 4 include this feature.
They also both have a siren. The siren makes a loud noise. It can surprise and deter anyone trying to break in.
These features are very similar. You get strong nighttime protection with both. It’s good to have both in your home security system.
Having both a spotlight and siren is a big advantage. They help keep your home safe night and day. You can depend on either model for this.
Price
Price is always a key factor. Arlo Pro 3 usually costs less. It’s a great option if you’re on a budget.
Arlo Pro 4 is a bit more expensive. With its extra features, it can be worth the extra cost. Especially if you value the simpler setup and wider view.
Looking at what you get, both are good deals. It depends on what you need most. Sometimes paying a bit more gets you a lot more.
If cost is a big concern, Pro 3 is a strong choice. But if you want the latest and greatest, Pro 4 is worth the price. Both give you good value for your money.
Arlo Pro 3 vs Arlo Pro 4: Feature Comparison
When choosing between Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Pro 4, it can help to see their features side by side. Both cameras offer excellent security options, but there are some differences. Here are ten key features compared in a simple table.
| Feature | Arlo Pro 3 | Arlo Pro 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Video Quality | 2K HDR | 2K HDR |
| Field of View | 160 degrees | 180 degrees |
| Night Vision | Yes, colored night vision | Yes, colored night vision |
| Connectivity | Requires Base Station | Direct Wi-Fi |
| Spotlight | Built-in | Built-in |
| Siren | Yes, built-in | Yes, built-in |
| Smart Home Integration | Works with Alexa, Google Assistant | Works with Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio |
| Weather Resistance | Yes, weather-resistant | Yes, weather-resistant |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
The Good and The Bad: Pros & Cons of Both Models
Both the Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Pro 4 have their strengths and weaknesses. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each. Here’s a table to help you understand the good and the bad of both models.
| Arlo Pro 3 | Arlo Pro 4 |
|---|---|
| Pros: 2K HDR video quality | Pros: 2K HDR video quality |
| Pros: Wide 160-degree field of view | Pros: Extra-wide 180-degree field of view |
| Pros: Built-in spotlight and siren | Pros: Built-in spotlight and siren |
| Pros: Reliable night vision | Pros: Reliable night vision |
| Pros: Lower price | Pros: Direct Wi-Fi connectivity |
| Cons: Requires a base station | Cons: Higher price |
| Cons: Slightly narrower field of view | Cons: Still needs power source nearby |
Price Comparison: Is it Worth Spending More?
When deciding between Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Pro 4, price is a big factor. The Pro 3 is usually cheaper, while the Pro 4 offers some additional features. Here’s a table to compare their prices and see if spending more is worth it.
| Arlo Pro 3 | Arlo Pro 4 |
|---|---|
| Lower price, usually around $200 per camera | Higher price, usually around $250 per camera |
| Requires base station, adds extra cost | Direct Wi-Fi connectivity, no extra equipment |
| 2K HDR video quality | 2K HDR video quality |
| 160-degree field of view | 180-degree field of view |
| Basic features offer good security | Advanced features offer enhanced security |
Which Is Better? Making Your Choice
Choosing between Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Pro 4 depends on what you need most. Both cameras are great, but they have some differences. Let’s see which one fits you better.
If you are on a budget, the Arlo Pro 3 offers excellent features at a lower price. It delivers high-quality video and lots of useful tools for home security. You will need a base station, but it’s still a solid choice.
On the other hand, if you want the latest features, Arlo Pro 4 might be the better choice. It has direct Wi-Fi connectivity and a wider field of view. These extras make it easier to set up and use.
Ultimately, both cameras are good, but here are three reasons to choose the Arlo Pro 4:
- Simpler setup without needing a base station
- Wider field of view for better coverage
- Direct Wi-Fi connectivity making it user-friendly
Key Takeaways
- Both Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 offer 2K HDR video quality.
- Pro 4 has a wider 180-degree field of view.
- Pro 3 requires a base station for connectivity.
- Pro 4 connects directly to Wi-Fi, simplifying setup.
- Both models include built-in spotlight and night vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 are popular choices for home security. Many users have questions about their differences and which might be better for their needs. Here are some common questions and detailed answers to help you decide.
What improvements does the Arlo Pro 4 offer over the Pro 3?
The Arlo Pro 4 has a wider 180-degree field of view compared to the Pro 3’s 160 degrees. This allows you to cover more area with a single camera.
Another key improvement is the direct Wi-Fi connectivity in the Pro 4. Unlike the Pro 3, which requires a base station, the Pro 4 connects directly to your home network, making installation quicker and simpler.
Do both the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 offer night vision?
Yes, both the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 come equipped with night vision. This feature is crucial for 24/7 security monitoring.
Both models offer colored night vision as well, which enhances visibility in low-light conditions. The spotlight feature also helps in providing clear footage at night.
How do the connectivity options differ between the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4?
The Arlo Pro 3 requires a base station to connect to your network. This extra piece of equipment can be a downside for some users.
In contrast, the Arlo Pro 4 can connect directly to your Wi-Fi network. This eliminates the need for a base station, making the setup process easier and more streamlined.
Is the price difference between the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 justified?
The Arlo Pro 4 is generally more expensive than the Pro 3, but it offers features that many users find valuable. The wider field of view and direct Wi-Fi connectivity are significant improvements.
If these features are important to you, the extra cost might be worth it. Otherwise, the Pro 3 remains a very capable and cost-effective option.
Are both models weather-resistant?
Yes, both the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 are designed to be weather-resistant. They can handle various weather conditions, making them suitable for outdoor use.
Whether it’s rain, snow, or heat, both cameras are built to last. This makes them reliable options for any home security setup.
Arlo Pro 4 vs Arlo Pro 3: Breaking Down Their Differences (Which Is Better for You?)
Final Thoughts
Deciding between the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. Both cameras offer excellent security features, but the Pro 4 brings some notable improvements. Its wider field of view and direct Wi-Fi connectivity can make a significant difference in your home security setup.
However, if you’re looking for a reliable, cost-effective option, the Arlo Pro 3 holds its own very well. It delivers high-quality video and a robust set of features. Either way, choosing an Arlo camera means investing in a trusted brand known for innovative and reliable security solutions.
