Arlo vs Nest Review 2021
Analysis And Test Results
It’s no use testing products if there isn’t a way to share the data with others. As such, the question we ask ourselves before each product review is why do people want to buy (in this case) home security cameras? We also need to ask the question, “What should I test?” in order for people to be satisfied with their purchase. The answers to these questions are broken up into metrics or categories of analysis. For home security cameras, these metrics are Recorded Video Quality, Monitoring Performance, and Ease of Use. The weight of each metric (35, 35% and 30% respectively) is calculated so that 100 points can be added. Each of the metrics has submetrics. These are tests and analyses which are comparable in nature.
Similar: Home Security Cameras Buying Tips
Other Features
Much like the SENS8 security camera I recently reviewed, the Arlo Ultra features a built-in spotlight and siren that you can configure to turn on based on detected motion.
Sirens don’t work for me, however, I do appreciate using the spotlight to enhance my night vision.
The dual microphones on the Arlo Ultra camera enhance sound quality in situations like heavy rain and background noise.
Arlo had planned the initial release of its 4K camera in January, but due to software problems, the launch was delayed until March. I got my Arlo Ultra from Amazon at the end of March.
Subscribe to and contract
You don’t need to sign a contract or sign up for a subscription plan to use Arlo cameras. Instead, you can use them for free and enjoy 4K live video streaming, motion detection, and two-way audio.
Nest also doesn’t require subscriptions and contracts. Nest models also allow you to take advantage of two-way audio and motion alerts. However, streaming live is only available in HD resolution.
Winner: Arlo
Arlo cameras include a one-year limited hardware warranty. However, if you prefer longer warranty coverage, you should consider getting a Nest camera. Nest offers a two-year-long warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Netatmo Smart Doorbell
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- Requirements for Wired
Netatmo’s Smart Video Doorbell was revealed at CES 2019, but is not available for purchase yet. It has a compact and elegant design – rectangular in shape and a little larger than the Nest Hello.
The Netatmo Smart Video Doorbell is compatible with Apple’s HomeKit so you can ask Siri to show you your front door on your iOS device and it offers person detection too. Despite Netatmo’s Welcome camera offering facial recognition however, the Smart Video Doorbell doesn’t have this on its list of features.
It will alert you if someone tries to tamper with it though and it will video call you on your smartphone when someone rings the doorbell, like the Arlo Video Doorbell. The Netatmo Smart Video Doorbell is wired so it will need to replace an existing wired doorbell or will need professional installation.
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- Features: Pre-roll video capture, two-way talk and listen with noise cancellation, adjustable motion detection, Alexa compatible, interchangeable face plates, quick-release removable battery pack
- Requirements: Battery or wired
Four seconds of pre-roll video is captured before the motion alarm was activated. This allows you to look back at what occurred before the person entered the door. The idea is to remove the potential for something to be missed because that person didn’t make it to the door, for example.
Otherwise, the feature set is the same as the Ring Video Doorbell 3. This includes two-way conversation, motion detection zones that can be adjusted, interchangeable face plates, and the ability to either run the device from battery or connect it to your existing wiring. Installation is really easy for battery-powered operation, with everything you need in the box.
Where the Video Doorbell 3 Plus (and 3) differ from the Video Doorbell 2, is that they offer 5GHz Wi-Fi in addition to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, but otherwise the quality of the video is the same at 1080p, with a 160-degree lens. Again, you get more options for storage with a Ring Protect Plan.
Ring Video Doorbell
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- Features: 2-way Talk and Listen with Noise Cancellation, Adjustable Motion Detection, Alexa Compatible, Interchangeable Face Plates, Built-In Battery Pack
- Camera specifications: Night vision at 155 degrees FOV and 1080p.
- Requirements
You get all you need. It connects wirelessly (2.4GHz only), and can be charged with a battery. You will need to remove the battery cover from the unit and replace it. This means that you may not be able to use the doorbell as you are charging the battery. However, it is more cost-effective.
Integration And Smartphone Apps
Two apps are all you need to get an instant view of your house. With the Arlo Smartphone app, you’ll be able to stream live footage from any place in range on an iPhone or Android device using Wi-Fi connection and cell signal; while also having access through Nest’s App which is available for download at no cost online via Google Play Store/Amazon Appstore.
The user interface makes it simple as possible by being easy enough that even someone without technical knowledge would understand how everything works (e.g., setting up cameras).
These cameras can do so many things! The two-way audio/motion detection feature allows you to use the cameras remotely for talking or chatting with anyone. The app will alert your phone when there’s any activity around its location too which is really handy with these types of devices.
The camera has got some cool tricks up their sleeve – not only does this allow remote conversations between friends via smart device but also sends alerts about anything suspicious that might be going on across town (or country! ).
It is simple to customize and use the app. With a simple button, you can view your video anywhere and anytime. The Nest Outdoor Camera works with both Alexa and Google Assistant, while Arlo Ultra outdoor camera is compatible with HomeKit as well.
Arlo Q Review
Key Features
The Arlo Q can monitor every room in your home and access all angles. The HD 1080p recording produces crisp and clear images.
But unfortunately, images become less clear as the distance increases. You can live stream from just about anywhere using the following devices:
- Smartphone
- computer
- tablet
The enhanced night vision feature allows you to see clearly even in total darkness. Camera detects movement and sound, notifying you via email immediately.
The built-in Motion Detection range is responsible for this. The only complaint is if it’s on the “armed” setting, any movements are captured as pixels.
It has a two-way audio system which comprises a mic & speaker. Because of this feature, you can not only listen in but also talk back. You may experience some delays in the communication process.
All recordings, audio and video can be stored for up to 7 days so that you are able to hear and view them whenever necessary. It can be used with many online platforms such as Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. As a result, you can view your video with just a simple voice command.
However according to some customer reviews, unfortunately, it disconnects regularly–regardless of how strong your network is.
It can be set to record either continuously or in a pre-determined schedule. It’s pretty easy to mount: Either make use of the magnetic attachment or wall mount.
- Good picture quality.
- Durable.
- Easy to set up.
- Two-way communication delays.
- Might freeze & has glitches.
Free Service: A+
- To save any clip, you can export it to your phone or computer to preserve it for future reference.
- The video detection works at freakishly far distances. My tests at 50ft showed that my phone was able to send me notifications when Arlo Pro 2 detected action. The other cameras did not detect any. The Nest allows you to view the timeline and the activity at 50 feet. However, it is not considered an event. Cameras such as Arlo Pro or Blink Outdoor will not create events so it looks like nothing ever happened.
- You can create modes that allow you to play with the sensitivity levels. I prefer the default setting of 80, but it works well for me.
- Arlo Pro 2, plug into power supply, set up activity zones and place a box on the street for recording. Unfortunately, activity zones don’t work when the device is running on battery power, unless you have a paid plan.
Smart Platform Integration
When it came to smart platform integration, the Google Nest Indoor Camera and the Arlo Pro 2 were separate but equal.
The cameras were compatible with both the Amazon and Google ecosystems. We were able to tell our Alexa or Google Assistant to turn on our cameras and stream our footage through Chromecast or Fire TV, to name a couple of capabilities. The Nest Indoor was also integrated with Philips Hue lightsbulbs.
Both cameras were compatible with Amazon, Apple, and Google. This gave us the flexibility to set up our connected devices however we wanted. Our selection of a winner for smart platform integrations came down to IFTTT, Stringify, and the Philips Hue lightbulbs. The Arlo Pro 2 was a better option if we needed IFTTT or Stringify. The Nest Indoor camera was the best choice for integration with Philips Hue lightsbulbs. Here, again, we had a tie.
Google Nest Cam Outdoor Nc2100Es
For this one, you get to enjoy crystal-clear images of up to 1080p HD quality during the daytime. You can zoom in on distant objects as high as 8x with the camera, but this will not affect image quality.
In case it’s during the night, you get to receive black and white pictures but which are clear enough to distinguish your pooch from Coyote. The function relies on the eight fitted infrared LEDs that can enhance visibility up to 30 feet [or more] in well-lit environments.
To make it even more promising, the wireless cam has a smart motion detection that includes setting activity zones. It also sends alerts to its camera when it detects someone within its range.
If the alerts were sent by your children, the two-way microphone can be used to make a friendly greeting. If the alarm is from a burglar, you can use the audio function to scare off the fella before breaking into your property.
Key Features:
- You can zoom in without reducing the clarity and it produces high-quality images.
- Has a 130-degree wide field of vision to cover a larger space
- Record audio, and enjoy seamless 2-way communication
- You can set up activity zones in your most valuable areas
- Features magnetic installation, which is quick and super-easy
- To last a long time, the wifi camera can be used in any weather conditions.
No Charge Service
- Nest’s “free” service is laughable. When you’re paying $200 for a piece of hardware, you expect to be able to use it, but Nest Cam is completely useless without a Nest Aware subscription.
- You get a notification from your phone when it senses movement. You can tap the notification to view the live feed, but unless you’re already on your phone, you’ll miss whatever happened because Nest’s notifications are delayed by 10 seconds.
- You can view the live feed whenever you want via a web browser or inside the app. With the free plan, live streams are the only thing that make Nest Cam potentially useful.
Audio Functions
Audio surveillance may not be legal in all cases, but security cameras with audio capabilities can prove to be extremely useful. Credible evidence can be collected that will allow you to capture the suspects faster and recover your items.
There is not much to choose from when you compare Ring vs Nest and Arlo audio functions. All three support this feature, but they do so in slightly different ways.
One-directional audio is available on some systems to record sound and footage. Others have two-way audio, which can capture sound but also allows for smooth two-way communication like with a walkie talkie.
With the two-way audio, you can even scare away the potential burglar using the speaker built into the camera. Thereby, having a chance to stop a crime before it happens.
Wyze Cam V3
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We find it difficult to imagine why anyone would choose another Wyze Cam. That being said, the device is not without some shortcomings. It lacks some features, such as a redundant power supply (it has to be plugged in), facial detection alerts (not so useful they sound), an alarm setting that will notify local emergency service in the event of smoke, carbon monoxide or burglary. Also, the camera does not pan — thus, its field of vision is locked in at 130 degrees. However, we don’t see these limitations as huge problems since the camera does everything else so well, and it offers users unparalleled savings both upfront and in the long term. This home security camera is unbeatable at any price.
Wyze Cam 3 – Full Review
Extra Analytics
Audio and video analytics are two crucial functions that you ought not to ignore. They help enhance your user experience while at the same time heightening your security measures.
The motion detection function is used for video analytics. It is found in almost all security cameras today. Arlo and Nest, nonetheless, have gone beyond that and introduced person alerts and [familiar] face detection.
The duo has even incorporated audio analytics that allows the respective cameras to detect specific sounds and send alerts. It means that even though the lens of your camera isn’t showing any evidence, you still can detect ongoing criminal activity.
As for the Ring Company, there were speculations they will add facial recognition technology into their security cams. Amazon’s subbrand, however, hasn’t yet released the technology. However, we are hopeful they will.
Nest Doorbell: The Breakdown
The Nest Doorbell and Arlo Essential Wireless Doorbell provide front porch security. You can summon live views on-demand or capture movement events during the day. You will be notified across all devices when someone rings your doorbell, or motion is detected. This allows you to talk to visitors, or monitor potential intruders.
Because the doorbells come from different manufacturers, certain features and alerts may not work depending on which device you have. You will need to ensure that your smart home is compatible if you have an existing voice assistant. Let’s start with the easy stuff, though, by taking a look at the tech specs.
As you can see, the Nest Doorbell and the Arlo Essential doorbell have a lot in common. Each doorbell supports all package protection features, including notifications, two-way audio and night vision. Installation is also incredibly as both sport batteries that allows you to place them just about anywhere, and they last up to six months on a charge.
Weather resistance is another feature of both video doorbells. This keeps them protected from the elements throughout the year. Both doorbells have hub-free Wi Fi connectivity which allows you to add them to any existing home network. Of course, tech specs don’t always tell the whole story, so let’s dive into what makes each doorbell unique.
These are the features
Both Arlo Ultra and Nest Cam IQ Outdoor have similar and different features that are important to know.
Ring Pricing
Ring’s basic equipment packages begin at $199, while professional monitoring services start at $20 per month. Customers will not need to pay an additional monitoring fee for video storage and professional monitoring once they subscribe to Ring Protect.
Nest Aware
Nest Aware was Google’s subscription program. The subscription included cloud storage for as long as 30 days and advanced artificial intelligence capabilities. Nest Aware also allowed us to set up activity zones, which are areas that our camera should monitor closely.
We also used Nest Aware to set up 24/7 continuous recording. Subscription plans were based on the length of cloud storage (see the storage section above for pricing details).
How Does Ring Work?
Ring operates in a similar way to Nest. Your system can be arm or disarmed using the Ring home keypad, and your chosen pin. The major difference between Ring and Nest when it comes to function is that you can choose DIY or professional monitoring.
What is the average time videos stay on video doorbells?
Again, this depends on your product and subscription. Generally, without a subscription, live viewing is the only option available. Nest and some other brands will store event recordings only for a limited time. You can get event recordings for anywhere between 10 and 60 days if you subscribe to a plan. Sometimes, there is even the option of continuous recording 24/7.
Installing Outdoor Security Cameras
When considering which smart security camera to buy, consider your current setup. A wireless outdoor camera with a rechargeable battery is a convenient way to go, as most cameras should only need to be recharged once or twice a year.
Some cameras don’t have removable batteries. To charge the camera, you will need to remove it all. This is not an issue that will make you lose your camera, but it can be annoying if security cameras are visible at all times.
Overall Winner
And the overall winner when comparing Arlo Ultra vs Nest Cam IQ Outdoor is…
Arlo Ultra!
We’ve used Arlo cameras for years, and the Arlo Ultra has worked just as well as its previous versions. The Ultra works better than ever, despite some bad reviews from users who had issues with the software when it was first released. We didn’t have any problems.
Camera Costs
The price of all the Arlo features is high. Their least-expensive cameras cost almost $30 less than Blink’s. Both companies offer various starter packs and other packages, which will help accommodate a variety of budgets, but there’s no denying that Arlo’s cameras are pricey. The two companies are almost equal when it comes cloud storage subscriptions.
Arlo Ultra Vs Nest Cam Iq Outdoor
Let’s start with price tags.
These cameras have different prices depending on the sales but are generally comparable.
Arlo Ultra is usually $400 for one camera and the SmartHub. Nest Cam IQ Outdoor is usually $349 per camera, no hub needed. For the most current prices, check Amazon or Home Depot via the links below.
Nest Doorbell (Battery).
A backup and backup plan for your doorbell
Google’s Nest Doorbell (Battery) keeps an eye on your front door with or without an internet connection, thanks to the three-hour local recording feature. The Nest Doorbell’s latest version has many great features, including a six-month battery, dual power options and HDR imagery.
- $180 at Best Buy
- B&H Photo $180
- $180 at Home Depot
All you need to know about home surveillance cameras 18 exterior cameras to protect your connected home August View vs. Ring Video Doorbell 2 The Arlo Ultra also did a decent job in general but struggled a little with some of the advanced features. For instance, the Ultra is supposed to distinguish among people, vehicles, and animals. It also has a beta feature for detecting shipments when they arrive and sending out a personalized warning. The Ultra did a fantastic job detecting a person it won’t tell you who it sees, only that it sees a person. It was less effective at correctly identifying cars, animals and packages. Since the package feature is in beta testing.
Some battery-operated cameras only start recording when motion is detected. You will miss something if they do.
- Easy To Install
- Wifi Throughout the House
- Good Camera
- Tech Support
Remote Arlo Smart Hub video footage (requires MicroSD card, sold separately) Cameras can record in 4K with HDR for better night vision.
- Night Vision
- Battery Life
- Video Quality
- Quite expensive compared to alternatives
I gave that one a pass, but the other two aren’t and that was frustrating. As with most of the cameras I’ve tested, the Arlo Ultra’s ability to distinguish unique things will likely develop over time, but the Nest Cam IQ Outdoor is more reliable today. You’ll get a warning when Nest thinks it sees someone you’ve added to your facial recognition database. Features Both the Arlo and Nest camera-based systems provide some of the latest technology for keeping your home safe and sound.
Some options are both indoor and outdoor cameras, as well as the added ability to attach to any Google Home or Alexa system. (safehome.org) Being able to connect your Google Home or Amazon Alexa devices to your home security system allows you to use voice control. This ensures that you can monitor automation functions such as turning on your lights with the sound of your voice. Welcome to the future. (safehome.org) Nest Hello Installation From there, you’ll also enjoy easy DIY setup on the wireless cameras. Arlo and Nest also integrate artificial intelligence into a few of their cameras, allowing for advanced individual detection.
And of course, you’ll be able to access and monitor the cameras from pretty much anywhere using your smartphone. Join it up and you get feature-packed home surveillance cameras with all the bells and whistles. Just don’t be too shocked if it’s not cheap, but we’ll get to that. (safehome.org) Both cameras have excellent specs, making this segment a draw, but there are some key differences worth exploring. While the Nest Cam IQ Outdoor streams in crisp 1080p HD, the Arlo Ultra streams in 4K. 4K streaming won’t work if your Wi-Fi output doesn’t meet Arlo’s minimum specifications , but if it does, expect to be able to make out more information than you can with lower-res cameras.
The Arlo Ultra is also more of a surveillance camera than the Nest model. The Ultra app lets you an arm and disarms the device, and the camera itself has a built-in siren and spotlight. Motion movement that occurs at night time will turn on the spotlight immediately, distracting the individual and making it easier for the camera to catch who it is and what they’re doing. Change the settings in the app to turn on the siren automatically whenever the device is armed and the camera senses motion — or turn it on manually whenever you like.
While both security systems provide great functionality and ease of use, you’ll want to explore the discrepancies between the two vendors to find out which one provides the best match for your home or rental. While both Arlo and Nest include advanced technology in their home security cameras, there are some significant variations that can significantly affect your personal use. FYI: Nest only offers four surveillance cameras two indoor cameras and two outdoor cameras. Arlo, on the other hand, has nine cameras to choose from.
The Nest Cam IQ devices come with AI-powered individual detection. It also comes with a neat Close-Up Tracking feature that Arlo doesn’t do. In the app, the camera can automatically zoom in (up to 12x) to follow the visitor or suspect. Nest Cam IQ also has daytime HDR with 4K resolution. The Nest cameras are fairly easy to mount, but Arlo is the easier of the two choices to get up and running. To learn more about Nest cameras, check out our hands-on Google Nest Cam analysis Arlo – 3 Cameras To Arlo’s benefit is their build efficiency. The cameras just feel sturdy on your side, maybe slightly more so than Nest Cams.
And Arlo has an incredible 180-degree field of view, compared to Nest Cam’s paltry 130-degree field of view. This means you’ll see more interaction with Arlo than Nest. Arlo also has cameras that stream and record in 4K. Overall, Arlo is a perfect home surveillance camera device, just like Nest. You can learn more about it in our full analysis of Arlo cameras.
Similarities Between Arlo And Nest
Arlo Pro 3, with magnetic charging cable Arlo offers high-quality cameras, while Nest provides options to connect your devices via the Google Home app. Both home protection companies provide DIY installation, which can be completed in around 20-30 minutes, as well as the freedom of having no long-term (or short-term!) contracts. Although Arlo and Nest appear to be on the more costly side of DIY security firms, their compatibility with cutting-edge applications makes them attractive for those pursuing high-end surveillance.
The extra features of the camera have their benefits though: a built-in siren/spotlight feature on top of motion activity detection makes it perfect outdoor surveillance equipment! Nighttime will turn on the spotlight automatically, startling people and making it easier for you to capture who they are. Adjust settings in your app so that whenever sensors detect motion or a person’s face is seen through an opened door all by itself then sirens go off too! This has been especially helpful with our old dog walking adventure–I can’t believe how many times we caught her misbehaving because she was scared of something out there while I walked us home from work…person detection really does wonders at night when nothing else would’ve done anything but make me frustrated as heck + prone towards running inside before things got worst (plus no one wants their house/ yard invaded Night time will turn on the spotlight automatically, startling people and making it easier for you to capture who is doing what. You can adjust settings in this app so that whenever there’s motion or a saved image of someone detected by the camera (person alert), then Siren sound should go off but others were less consistent at times when they triggered after being set off manually beforehand The IQ Outdoor offers free person detection, as well as three hours worth of saved images taken every time we armed our system via SmartLock feature with keyless entry remote control The Nest Cam IQ Outdoor activity and facial recognition, are unparalleled, with features that even surpass those found on the Arlo camera. The Aware service offers more for free than what’s offered by both of these competitors; it starts at $5 per month (or less if you sign up before April 30th) which gives you access to all sorts of helpful tools like accessed videos from your cloud recordings or live views when monitoring home security as well a one-year subscription in hopes that after this time period has passed – customers will continue paying because they get so much functionality out into their hands! Nests vary in their features and prices. Nest’s activity-based cloud recordings start at $5 per month, while Arlo offers one free year of the service which includes more advanced features for an extra charge.
You can position it on your table or any flat surface of your choosing with just one stand that comes included in this package – but don’t worry about running out because there’s also an option for a more permanent two-camera setup if you want even greater flexibility! If anything doesn’t look quite right while installing either product then be sure to check their customer service team which has been rated highly by those who have used both options before recommending them online (I rate both highly me). My personal experience couldn’t differ much between these competitors; however, I will mention Arlo offers extended power cords as well when needed so some customers won The Nest Cam IQ Outdoor is great for mounting on your outdoor space, but it isn’t as simple or functional by comparison. For instance, you need an additional power supply in order to use this stand which limits where the camera can go unless there are extension cords handy (or else buy another one). Additionally, if something happens while someone at home watches over their property they won’t be able to see what exactly happened because Arlo’s magnetic bases allow them both to look up into view of any installed cameras without having line-of-sight blocked!
Choosing The Best To Fit Your Needs
Hopefully, this contrast between Arlo and Nest home security systems has given you better insight as to which device would best suit your home security needs. Even with all of the knowledge available, however, it can still seem difficult to settle on a method. Nest IQ Indoor Equipment If you are still struggling to select the right home security system, consider making a quick checklist. The first list that you should make will include the requirements that you have for your new home security system as well as any features and functions that you wish to have. Next, do some analysis to find the camera device seems to ‘check the boxes.
You should also ask yourself how much you’re prepared to pay upfront. It’s important to have home security, but not at the risk of going broke. With that said, it’s best not to compromise when choosing your home security system. When it comes to the safety and security of your home, you might regret buying anything that does not sufficiently provide the protection you need (and deserve!). Thankfully, both Arlo and Nest are more than up to the challenge of defending your home and family. They’ll both do the job in style.
Verdict
If you are renting a room or own your own house, both Arlo and Nest home surveillance cameras provide the best technology for home monitoring without any contractual obligation. Of course, bearing in mind your ability to manage DIY camera installation is crucial, but both of these security company providers have taken the time to dial-in their easy setup process. It couldn’t be simpler.
Now, after having checked both camera systems, we’re a little partial to Nest. We like the Google Home compatibility that Nest provides, and the Nest Cam IQ is probably the most feature-rich camera we’ve ever used. Also, you’ll get a two-year warranty with Nest, compared to Arlo’s one-year warranty. But if we’re being honest, you just can’t go wrong either way. We think both camera choices will go the distance when it comes to defending your castle. Just make sure to carry your pocketbook or purse you’ll need it.
