Surprisingly, when considering a robust home security system, many people often overlook the nuanced differences between the Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2. Both models are lauded for their advanced features, yet subtle distinctions can significantly influence a user’s choice. This comparison aims to dissect what sets them apart, ensuring you make an informed decision.
The Arlo Pro, released earlier, introduced the market to wireless freedom in home security, offering weather-resistant design and excellent two-way audio. However, the Arlo Pro 2 enhanced these features with 1080p HD resolution and advanced motion detection. Statistically, users reported a 30% increase in satisfaction with the video quality upgrade, marking a significant leap in technological advancement.
| Feature | Arlo Pro | Arlo Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Video Quality | 720p HD | 1080p Full HD |
| Motion Detection | Basic | Enhanced (detects people, animals) |
| Custom Activity Zones | No | Yes |
| Continuous Video Recording | No | Yes (requires AC power) |
| Night Vision | Yes | Yes (improved clarity) |
Overview of Arlo Pro and Arlo 2
The Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 are popular choices for home security cameras. They offer features to keep your home safe and secure. Let’s dive into the details of each model to see how they compare.
Overview of Arlo Pro
The Arlo Pro is known for its wireless capabilities, which make installation easy. It doesn’t require any complex wiring, allowing users to place the camera anywhere within the WiFi range. This makes it a great choice for beginners.
One of the standout features of Arlo Pro is its weather-resistant design. This durable construction ensures the camera can withstand rain, snow, or heat. This feature is essential for outdoor use.
Arlo Pro offers two-way audio, allowing you to listen and talk through the camera. This can be very useful for talking to visitors or scaring off intruders. It adds an extra layer of interaction compared to regular cameras.
It also comes with smart alerts, which notify you when motion or sound is detected. These alerts can be sent to your phone or email, keeping you informed at all times. This feature enhances your peace of mind.
Lastly, the Arlo Pro has a good battery life, reducing the need for frequent charging. The battery can last several months on a single charge. This makes it convenient for users who don’t want to worry about frequent recharging.
Overview of Arlo 2
The Arlo Pro 2 builds on the features of the Arlo Pro with several upgrades. One major improvement is its video quality. It offers 1080p HD resolution, providing clearer and sharper images.
Like the Arlo Pro, the Arlo Pro 2 also has a weather-resistant design. This ensures it remains functional regardless of the weather conditions. It’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
The Arlo Pro 2 also features enhanced motion detection. It can distinguish between people, animals, and other objects. This helps to reduce false alerts and makes the security system more reliable.
Another great feature is the ability to set custom activity zones. You can specify areas within the camera’s view that you want to monitor more closely. This feature helps focus on important areas like doors or windows.
Finally, the Arlo Pro 2 has a continuous video recording option. This allows you to record 24/7 if connected to an AC power source. It’s useful for those who want constant surveillance of their property.
Key Features Compared
When comparing the Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2, it’s important to look at their key features. Each model has unique aspects that make them stand out. Let’s explore these features to understand their differences better.
Video Quality
The Arlo Pro offers video quality at 720p. This resolution is good enough to see things clearly but not very detailed. It’s suitable for basic security needs.
On the other hand, the Arlo Pro 2 provides 1080p HD video quality. This higher resolution means you get a clearer and sharper image. You can see more details, which is helpful for identifying faces or objects.
The difference in video quality is significant. For those who want better picture clarity, the Arlo Pro 2 is the better option. The enhanced video quality makes it easier to see what’s happening in your security footage.
While both cameras perform well, the Arlo Pro 2’s superior video quality gives it an edge. Users who prioritize this aspect will likely prefer the Pro 2.
In summary, if clear and detailed video is essential for you, the Arlo Pro 2 wins this feature comparison.
Motion Detection
The Arlo Pro has basic motion detection. It alerts you when it detects any movement. This feature helps to keep you informed about any activity around your home.
However, the Arlo Pro 2 offers enhanced motion detection. It can tell the difference between people, animals, and other objects. This helps to reduce false alarms.
With Arlo Pro 2, you get more accurate alerts. This means fewer unnecessary notifications, making it less annoying. You only get alerted for important movements.
Both cameras help in detecting motion, but the Pro 2 does it better. Its advanced technology makes it more reliable for security purposes.
Overall, if you need accurate and fewer alerts, the Arlo Pro 2 is the better choice for motion detection.
Audio Capabilities
Both the Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 come with two-way audio. This means you can listen and talk through the camera. It’s helpful for communicating with visitors or warning intruders.
The audio quality in both models is good. You can clearly hear sounds and talk without much distortion. This feature enhances the interactivity of the cameras.
Having two-way audio adds an extra layer of security. You can remotely engage with anyone near your camera. This makes your security system more interactive and responsive.
While both cameras offer this feature, their performance in audio is quite similar. There’s no major difference in audio capabilities between the two models.
If two-way audio is important to you, either model will serve you well. They both excel in this aspect of security.
Weather Resistance
Both Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 have weather-resistant designs. This means they can handle rain, snow, and extreme heat. It’s ideal for outdoor placement.
These cameras are built to last in various weather conditions. You don’t have to worry about them getting damaged easily. This durability is a key feature for outdoor security.
Weather resistance ensures continuous operation. Regardless of the weather, your security cameras remain functional. This is crucial for those living in areas with unpredictable weather.
In this feature, both models perform equally well. Their robust design makes them suitable for long-term use in any weather.
For those who need an outdoor camera, both Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 are great choices. They both excel in weather resistance.
Battery Life
The Arlo Pro boasts a good battery life, lasting for several months on one charge. This means less frequent need to recharge. It’s convenient for users.
The Arlo Pro 2 also has a strong battery performance. It can last similarly long, depending on usage. This reliability is appreciated by users.
Both models offer rechargeable batteries. This saves cost on replacements and is more eco-friendly. It’s a practical feature for long-term use.
Battery life in both cameras is dependable. You won’t need to worry about your camera going offline frequently.
If long battery life is important, either model will suffice. Both the Arlo Pro and Pro 2 excel in this feature.
Arlo Pro vs Arlo 2: Feature Comparison
When comparing the Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2, it’s helpful to look at their features side by side. This allows us to see where each model excels. Below is a detailed comparison of 10 key features.
| Feature | Arlo Pro | Arlo Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Video Quality | 720p HD | 1080p Full HD |
| Weather Resistance | Yes | Yes |
| Motion Detection | Basic | Enhanced (detects people, animals) |
| Two-Way Audio | Yes | Yes |
| Custom Activity Zones | No | Yes |
| Battery Life | Several months | Several months |
| Continuous Video Recording | No | Yes (requires AC power) |
| Smart Alerts | Yes | Yes |
| Base Station | Required | Required |
| Night Vision | Yes | Yes (with improved clarity) |
The Good and The Bad
Both Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 come with their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at the good and the bad aspects of each model in the table below.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy installation (wireless setup) | Base Station is required |
| Weather-resistant design | Higher cost for Arlo Pro 2 |
| Good battery life | Continuous video recording needs AC power |
| Two-way audio | Need for frequent app updates |
| Custom activity zones (Arlo Pro 2) | Limited features without subscription |
Price Comparison
When choosing between the Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2, price can be a deciding factor. Let’s compare the cost of each model to help you decide which one fits your budget.
| Arlo Pro | Arlo Pro 2 |
|---|---|
| Approx. $200 | Approx. $300 |
| Includes 1 camera | Includes 1 camera |
| Compatible with base station | Compatible with upgraded base station |
| Lower cost for additional cameras | Higher cost for additional cameras |
| Lower subscription fees for basic services | Higher subscription fees for advanced services |
Which Is Better?
Deciding between the Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 can be challenging, as both have strong features. The choice often depends on your specific needs and budget. Let’s review the highlights to determine which might be the better choice for you.
The Arlo Pro is an excellent option if you’re looking for an affordable and reliable security camera. It offers essential features like weather resistance, two-way audio, and good battery life. It is perfect for users who want basic security without breaking the bank.
However, if you require higher video quality and advanced features, the Arlo Pro 2 may be the better choice. With its 1080p HD resolution, enhanced motion detection, and custom activity zones, it offers more precise and reliable security. These enhancements justify the higher price tag for many users.
When it comes to overall performance and added features, the Arlo Pro 2 tends to come out on top. It addresses the shortcomings of the Arlo Pro and introduces new functionalities that make it highly effective for comprehensive home security.
3 Reasons to Choose Arlo Pro 2:
- Better video quality with 1080p HD resolution
- Enhanced motion detection that reduces false alarms
- Additional features like custom activity zones for focused monitoring
Key Takeaways
- Arlo Pro offers 720p HD, while Arlo Pro 2 provides 1080p Full HD.
- Both models have weather-resistant designs, great for outdoor use.
- Arlo Pro 2 features enhanced motion detection, reducing false alerts.
- Custom activity zones are available only in Arlo Pro 2.
- Continuous video recording is a feature in Arlo Pro 2 with AC power.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 are popular choices for home security. These cameras have different features that make them unique. Here are some common questions experts often ask about these models.
How does the video quality differ between Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2?
The Arlo Pro offers a 720p HD video resolution, which provides a clear and decent image quality for standard security needs. It’s a good option for those who don’t require extremely high-definition footage.
However, the Arlo Pro 2 boasts a 1080p Full HD video resolution. This higher resolution allows for much sharper and clearer images, making it easier to identify faces and details.
Are there differences in the motion detection capabilities?
Yes, there are significant differences. The Arlo Pro features basic motion detection that alerts you when any movement is detected. This can sometimes lead to false alarms from pets or passing cars.
The Arlo Pro 2 features enhanced motion detection. It can distinguish between people, animals, and other objects, which reduces the number of false alerts and ensures you are notified only when necessary.
Do both cameras have night vision capabilities?
Both the Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 come with night vision features. This allows the cameras to capture footage in low-light conditions, ensuring round-the-clock security.
The Arlo Pro 2, however, offers improved night vision clarity. The enhanced sensors and higher resolution provide crisper and more detailed images even in darkness.
Can I set up custom activity zones with these cameras?
The Arlo Pro does not support custom activity zones. This means you cannot specify particular areas within the camera’s view that you want to monitor more closely.
In contrast, the Arlo Pro 2 allows for custom activity zones. This feature lets you highlight specific areas, such as doorways or windows, to focus the camera’s detection capabilities, providing a more tailored security setup.
How do the power options differ between the two models?
Both the Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 come with rechargeable batteries that can last several months on a single charge. This makes both cameras convenient for use without the constant need for recharging.
The Arlo Pro 2 also offers an option for continuous video recording when connected to an AC power source. This feature is particularly useful for those who require continuous 24/7 monitoring.
Arlo Pro 2 Review: Testing Arlo Pro vs Arlo Pro 2
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. The Arlo Pro is a fantastic option for those seeking reliable security at an affordable price. However, if you require superior video quality and advanced features, the Arlo Pro 2 stands out as the better choice.
Both models offer robust security solutions with their own unique features. Whether you prioritize cost or advanced capabilities, you can’t go wrong with either. Feel confident knowing that both options provide excellent security for your home.
