Arlo Doorbell Review: Affordable, High-Quality Surveillance
A good security system is more than a deterrent—it’s peace of mind. Whether you’re protecting your home from intruders or simply ensuring deliveries arrive safely, a video doorbell is your first line of defense. It offers real-time monitoring, motion alerts, and even lets you speak to visitors remotely.
The Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell is a solid choice for those looking for a security upgrade. This doorbell boasts an impressive 180° viewing angle, HD resolution, and night vision capabilities, making it a reliable companion for home security. With a host of useful features and seamless integration with smart home devices, it’s worth taking a closer look.
Product Details – Arlo Doorbell
- Usage: Outdoor
- Power Source: Wired
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi
- Video Resolution: 1536×1536
- Viewing Angle: 180 degrees
- Weather Resistance: IP54-rated
- Zoom Capability: 12x digital zoom
- Audio: 2-way audio with pre-recorded replies
- Smart Device Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit
- Night Vision: Color night vision
- Special Features: Built-in siren, motion alerts, HD video quality, package detection, cloud storage option
✅ Best For: Homeowners seeking a durable, weather-resistant, smart security solution that integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Arlo Doorbell Review – Pros & Cons
Pros of Arlo Doorbell
✅ Wide 180-degree field of view offers better surveillance for your doorstep.
✅ Color night vision ensures clear images even in low-light conditions.
✅ Built-in siren allows quick action to deter intruders remotely.
✅ Two-way audio lets you communicate with visitors without opening the door.
✅ Smart alerts notify you about people, packages, or vehicles.
Cons of Arlo Doorbell
❗ Subscription required for advanced features like cloud storage.
❗ Limited mounting flexibility may restrict camera angles in some setups.
The Arlo Doorbell has received mostly positive reviews for its HD video quality and smart alerts. Users appreciate its wide field of view and reliable motion detection, making it an excellent choice for home security.
In-Depth Review of the Arlo Doorbell
When it comes to home security, the Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell stands out by combining smart features with solid design. From its sleek look to advanced detection capabilities, this doorbell is built to safeguard your home while offering peace of mind.
High-Definition Video & 180° View
The Arlo Doorbell delivers crystal-clear video with 1536×1536 resolution, ensuring that you can see every detail of what’s happening outside your door. One standout feature is its 180° vertical field of view, which allows you to see not just visitors but also packages left on the ground—a feature that many competing models lack. This wide-angle view ensures you won’t miss any important activity in front of your home.
Smart Notifications & Quick Responses
The Arlo Doorbell isn’t just about visuals; its intelligence shines through in its smart notification system. Whether it’s a person, package, or vehicle, you’ll get tailored alerts sent straight to your smartphone. This quick action capability allows you to respond immediately, either by speaking to the visitor through the doorbell’s two-way audio or by using one of the pre-recorded replies. This makes handling visitors convenient even when you’re away.
Sleek Design & Easy Installation
Designed to fit seamlessly with most home exteriors, the Arlo Doorbell is sleek and modern. Installation is fairly straightforward, especially if you already have the necessary wiring in place. With a few basic tools, you can have it up and running within 30 minutes, making it an ideal DIY project for homeowners. Its IP54 weather-resistant rating ensures the device remains functional through harsh weather conditions.
Night Vision & Motion Detection
A key feature of the Arlo Doorbell is its impressive night vision capability. Whether it’s dusk or the dead of night, the doorbell captures clear footage, and the 12x digital zoom ensures you can focus on important details. Motion detection is another major plus—when motion is detected, the Arlo Secure plan captures video even before the event begins, ensuring you see the full picture of any suspicious activity.
Subscription Plan for Full Features
One potential drawback of the Arlo Doorbell is its reliance on a subscription service to unlock advanced features. Without the Arlo Secure plan, you miss out on perks like cloud storage and advanced detection (people, animals, vehicles). While the basic functionality remains intact, those looking for comprehensive coverage may find the $2.99 monthly fee worthwhile for the added security.
Durable & Weather-Resistant
The doorbell is built to withstand various weather conditions, from rain to scorching heat, thanks to its weather-resistant design. Arlo’s reputation for durability is well-established, and this product continues that legacy. For homeowners in climates with fluctuating weather, the Arlo Doorbell proves to be a long-lasting option.
Who Is the Arlo Doorbell Perfect For?
✅ Homeowners looking for a reliable, wired video doorbell with advanced features.
✅ People who need a smart doorbell with a wide viewing angle to monitor packages.
✅ Users who want easy integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit.
✅ Individuals looking for an affordable doorbell with customizable smart notifications.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
✅ Users who do not want to pay for additional subscription services might prefer models with free storage options.
Customer Experiences with the Arlo Doorbell
After analyzing user feedback, here are the key takeaways from actual customer experiences:
✅ Clear video quality: Users consistently praise the Arlo Doorbell for its high-definition footage and impressive night vision, ensuring they feel secure in both daylight and darkness.
✅ Quick motion alerts: Most users appreciate the fast, real-time alerts. They like the ability to customize motion zones, reducing unnecessary notifications from passing cars or pedestrians.
✅ Two-way audio clarity: Homeowners find the two-way audio feature incredibly helpful, with clear sound for both speaking and listening. This feature has been noted to enhance security and convenience.
🚫 Subscription dependency: Some users find the need for a subscription limiting. Without the Arlo Secure plan, certain essential features such as video cloud storage are locked, which is a drawback for those avoiding additional monthly costs.
🚫 Connectivity issues: A small number of users reported occasional Wi-Fi connection drops, which could disrupt real-time alerts or video streaming.
Value Analysis of the Arlo Doorbell
The Arlo Essential Wired Doorbell stands out for its combination of affordability and smart features. In terms of value, it is an excellent investment for users seeking a mid-range video doorbell with solid performance.
Key Strengths: Durability, Smart Features
- Weather Resistance: With its IP54 rating, the Arlo Doorbell is built to withstand the elements, making it a reliable choice for long-term outdoor use.
- Smart Integration: The doorbell seamlessly connects with popular platforms like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, giving users flexibility in managing their home security.
- Two-Way Audio: The clear two-way audio function is a notable strength, allowing for easy communication with visitors from anywhere.
Considerations: Connectivity and Cost
- Subscription Costs: While the basic features are functional without a subscription, most users will find that the full value of the Arlo Doorbell is unlocked only with the Arlo Secure plan, which adds to the overall cost.
- Wi-Fi Reliability: Some users have experienced intermittent Wi-Fi drops, which may affect real-time alerts and video streaming during critical moments.
The Arlo Doorbell is a good investment for homeowners looking for a durable, smart, and feature-packed video doorbell. Its affordability, smart notifications, and clear video make it a great value for enhancing home security.
Final Thoughts: Is the Arlo Doorbell Worth It?
The Arlo Doorbell is an affordable, feature-rich option for anyone looking to upgrade their home security with smart notifications and clear video quality. Its excellent video resolution and wide-angle view are impressive, but the need for a subscription may be a drawback for some users.
FAQs – Arlo Doorbell
Is the Arlo Doorbell easy to install?
Yes, the Arlo Doorbell is designed for easy DIY installation. It comes with detailed instructions and the necessary mounting equipment, making the process straightforward. Homeowners who have pre-existing wiring can have the doorbell installed and running in under 30 minutes.
Does the Arlo Doorbell work with smart home devices?
Yes, the Arlo Doorbell integrates seamlessly with popular smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. You can control the doorbell through voice commands and even view live footage on smart displays that support these platforms.
Can I use the Arlo Doorbell without a subscription?
Yes, you can use the Arlo Doorbell without a subscription, but advanced features like cloud storage, package detection, and smart notifications for specific objects (people, cars, animals) will require an Arlo Secure plan. Basic motion alerts and live streaming will still function without the subscription.
Is the Arlo Doorbell weatherproof?
Yes, the Arlo Doorbell is IP54-rated, which means it can withstand various weather conditions, including rain, heat, and dust. Its durable design ensures reliable performance year-round, making it suitable for outdoor use in most climates.
Does the Arlo Doorbell have night vision?
Yes, the Arlo Doorbell features color night vision, providing clear, detailed images even in low-light conditions. This feature ensures that you can see visitors or intruders clearly, regardless of the time of day.
Arlo Doorbell Review – Conclusion
The Arlo Doorbell offers an impressive combination of smart features and durability, making it a reliable choice for homeowners. With its wide viewing angle, color night vision, and smart alerts, it ensures peace of mind for home security. Though the subscription-based features may be a consideration for some, its overall performance makes it a solid investment.