Latest news with #Arlo
CNET
3 days ago
- Business
- CNET
The Security Cam I Recommend to Anyone on a Budget Is 50% Off
As a longtime reviewer, I've tested a lot of security cameras over the years and no matter what brand or retailer you're looking at, one thing is always true: If you want a camera with premium features, it's going to cost you. Prices for just a single camera can easily run $200 or even more. When you're trying to put together a system with multiple cameras, the total price tag can get out of hand quickly. But the second-gen Arlo Essential 2K cam manages to buck that trend. Right now, it's marked down to just $50 on Amazon. That's a seriously impressive price for a camera that offers many of the same features of Arlo's highest-end models. If you're in the market for more than one security camera, the two-pack is currently discounted by 53%, slashing $100 off of its normal $190 price tag. Even better, Amazon recently updated pricing for more multipacks, and a three-pack of cameras is 48% off. That gives shoppers a lot of options for getting the setup they need at a big discount. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. What I like about the Arlo security camera While testing the Arlo Essential 2K Cam, I found the indoor-outdoor wireless camera performs well. The 2K resolution helps gather plenty of details, it's highly weather resistant and Arlo's app excels at walkthroughs on how to set up and use the cam. Other common features include two-way audio, color night vision and a built-in siren. Arlo isn't done yet. The cam's integrated spotlight did a great job of lighting up my backyard -- and if you prefer other smart home platforms, it plays well with Alexa and Google Home, as well as IFTTT (no Apple HomeKit support at this time, but it's a possibility). For more, here are CNET's picks for the best home security systems. Arlo wins at customization in the home security conversation I liked a lot of what the Arlo Essential does but it's not too different from what many other security cameras do -- just surprisingly affordable. I really like Arlo's UI and smart home integration too, with an app that's easy to understand and pop open for a quick look at your home when you're out on the town (and that doesn't even require a subscription). It's the deeper customization features that really impressed me. Those who like to tinker with their home security setup will love the beta-version custom detection options that come with higher-tier subscriptions, in addition to facial and vehicle recognition. I haven't seen custom setups like this on any other security camera before. In my tests, I was able to "teach" the cam AI to recognize when a pet toy appeared on camera or when certain objects were no longer present. I could also use this feature to tell me when the garage door opened or if something valuable (say, a piece of artwork) disappeared. Likewise, the vehicle detection options can tell if a specific vehicle is pulling up to your home. I've never seen anything else like this for those who really want to push their home security to the limits. Arlo's Essential cam is a great deal but keep in mind Arlo's subscription options. Arlo Arlo cams for yourself or others With Arlo's easy and informative setup process, the Essential camera is a great choice even if you or your family haven't tried a security camera before. As long as a user is comfortable trying out a new app and following the instructions, Arlo is an excellent experience. I rate the app and user-friendliness around Blink's level, another one of my favorite camera apps. With indoor/outdoor placement, the camera is also versatile so you don't have to worry about people not finding a place to use it. You could also spend a bit more to upgrade the camera with an extended battery and a solar panel, an effective combo if you want to avoid manually charging the battery as much as possible. It still needs a Wi-Fi connection but this combo is great for out-of-the-way spots like above my garage door or a high point on roof eaves. If you're thinking about getting this Arlo Essential camera as a gift, keep in mind Arlo locks quite a few important features behind its $8-plus monthly subscription, including smart alerts with object recognition and cloud video storage. So while the camera is usable without fees, there's a strong incentive to pay. Arlo does offer a free trial of its services but that could feel like a bait-and-switch to gift recipients who aren't expecting a security camera. If you want to give the cam as a gift, you may want to add some PayPal or Venmo cash to cover at least several months of a subscription. If you're on the hunt for other options, check out our full list of the best home security cameras of 2025.
Chicago Tribune
4 days ago
- Chicago Tribune
Best Arlo cameras
While security monitoring services are often expensive and intrusive, leaving your home unprotected is not worth the risk. An excellent way to save money, regain your peace of mind, and have full control over your surveillance system is by setting up one or more Arlo cameras in your home. Discerning security-system buyers have many aspects to consider before investing in a new system, including video recording quality, data storage options, and weatherproofed components. Our buying guide will walk you through these considerations and offer a few recommendations at the end, including our favorite model, the Arlo Ultra 2, which features stunning 4K quality. Power source Since some Arlo cameras rely on a power cord and others use a rechargeable battery, it is important to research how each model is powered to find the best fit for your installation situation. Weather-resistant If you plan on placing an Arlo camera outside, make sure that you buy a model that is weather-resistant against rain, sun damage, and a range of temperatures. Two-way audio Two-way audio allows Arlo system owners to communicate directly with whoever is on the other side of the camera via their smartphone. Whether it's to confirm delivery, tell a solicitor to go away or to let an early guest know that you're on the way to open the door, two-way audio is a handy feature to have on standby. Video quality The video quality of an Arlo camera ranges from 720p to a crisp 4 K, and while you will save money by purchasing a lesser model, you will likely appreciate the vibrant and picture-perfect video of a higher-end camera when looking for small details in your footage. We recommend buying an Arlo camera that supports a video quality of at least 1080p. Recording storage All Arlo cameras send recordings to the cloud by communicating with the companion base station via Wi-Fi, but some models have the option to store video and audio content directly on the device itself. Note that some Arlo cameras use a microSD card for local storage, while others need a USB drive. Bundles If a single camera isn't enough to cover your security needs, Arlo sells a range of cameras and SmartHub bundles. Keep in mind that purchasing a set of two to six Arlo cameras ensures you have the coverage you need from the moment you open the box. You can expect an Arlo camera bundle to include Arlo Basic service. However, if you need to store 30-60 days of footage in the cloud or have vehicle detection alerts sent to your smartphone, you may want to upgrade your default system to a Smart Plan. A single Arlo camera and SmartHub cost anywhere from $149 to $400. If you plan to create a security system with multiple cameras, we highly recommend purchasing a bundle for maximum savings. Q. Which smart home systems will Arlo cameras connect to? A. Arlo security cameras work with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Q. How long will the battery of a wireless Arlo camera last before I need to recharge them? A. Quite a while. Under normal circumstances, Arlo wireless camera batteries will last between three and six months without needing to be recharged. Of course, temperatures below 32 degrees or a poor connection to the Arlo base station will run down the battery much more quickly. Top Arlo camera Arlo Ultra 2 – Two-Camera Kit What you need to know: Although outfitting your property with many Arlo Pro 4 cameras may be costly, those who do will feel secure when they see just how impressive the audio and video quality of this camera truly is. What you'll love: With this camera, you get crystal-clear 4K HDR video quality. Nothing escapes its wide 180-degree field of view. The bundle includes a pair of Arlo Ultra 2 cameras and a base station. Each camera has a color night vision mode, and real-time alerts can be sent to your phone, Apple Watch or Alexa-enabled device. It also features distortion-free, two-way audio. What you should consider: The battery life is poor, so you'll have to recharge both cameras often. Top Arlo camera for the money Arlo Q What you need to know: Simple yet effective, the Arlo Q is an inexpensive way to set up a single high-end security camera to watch over an indoor space via its 50-foot motion detector and instant notification system. What you'll love: This affordable camera features 1080p HD quality video and night vision. The wide 130-degree lens and two-way audio ensure that you don't miss a thing. It has seven-day cloud video storage and is extremely easy to configure. What you should consider: It doesn't have batteries, so you have to plug it in for it to work. Worth checking out Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera – 2 Pack What you need to know: Considering the price and features, this pair of Arlo Pro 4 cameras is a great deal for a solid smart home security system. What you'll love: It's wire-free and easy to set up. While it's not the fanciest Arlo camera, you can still get up to 2K resolution video, which is pretty great for the price. It also features a 160-degree viewing angle, and the package includes two cameras. What you should consider: Some people had issues keeping the cameras connected to their Wi-Fi consistently. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
CNET
6 days ago
- Business
- CNET
Memorial Day Sale Still Available: You Can Save Up to 63% on Our Favorite Arlo Security Cameras Right Now
From porch pirates to unwanted visitors at your door, it's easy to worry about what's happening outside your home. That makes it essential to have a reliable security setup with indoor and outdoor smart cameras. Investing in home security can be expensive, but if you take advantage of the sales before they end, Arlo is making it easy to protect what matters most. Arlo is currently offering up to 63% off select security products during its Memorial Day sale. The discount is available on the official Arlo website and the Amazon store. We've spotted a lot on sale; whether you're after a reliable indoor camera or a video doorbell that supports two-way audio, there's something for everyone. But you'll need to act fast -- with the long weekend over, Memorial Day sales will be ending soon. Arlo's products have consistently performed well in our CNET tests. The 2K video doorbell is a favorite among our home security experts and was ranked the best video doorbell of the year in our latest roundup. It is currently just $60, after a whopping 54% discount. According to our editors, this one is quite easy to install, and apart from impressive features like high 2K resolution, night vision, and wide-angle 180-degree view, you'll also get handy extras like a built-in siren, customizable motion detection zones and two-way audio that lets you communicate with whoever is on the other side. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. If you're looking for a way to keep an eye on your kid or pet, the Arlo Essential indoor cam won't disappoint. It offers 2K resolution with zooming features to help you focus on tiny details. The night vision is just as high-quality, and the two-way audio makes communication seamless. Right now, you can grab it for just $30, after a 63% discount. Looking for something else? Here are some more deals worth considering: If you like something, don't wait too long to grab it, as we don't know how long the stock or the sale will last. Why this deal matters Whether you're just getting started on home security or looking to upgrade your current setup, things can get expensive fast. These Arlo deals let you protect your property for less, whether you're shopping for efficient outdoor cameras or a nanny cam.
CNET
7 days ago
- Health
- CNET
Home Security Cheat Sheet: I Gathered All Our Best Expert Advice
CNET Smart home solutions abound for home security and safety, from alarm systems to guides on Wi-Fi hacking and stopping porch pirates. It all gets overwhelming for newcomers looking to protect their home, especially if they don't know a lot of tech terms or product specifications. But this is a great place to start. Below, I've collected our top guides on the best tips and products for your security from our CNET experts and literally hundreds of hours of testing. I cover important topics like video doorbells and smart locks as well as recommendations for maintenance, vacation safety, pets and plenty more. Don't worry renters, there's also lots of practical security advice for tenants below. Take a look and find what you need. (You can also check out our home internet cheat sheet and our solar panel cheat sheet.) Is DIY or a professional home security system best? Arlo sensors can do nearly anything and are easy to move whenever you want. Arlo There are pros and cons to each home security option. DIY home security setups are often more affordable, customizable and compatible with other smart home devices, but you'll likely have to do the installing, setup and constant monitoring yourself. A professional home security service, though it's typically a bit more expensive and may require a monthly subscription, can save you the trouble of installing and setting up your equipment and help suggest the best devices to get. However, they may also lock you into contracts. Professional home monitoring is often available for either type of system, but it's more likely to be standard on a professional installation. Here are some resources to help you decide which system will work best for your home. What's the best home security system? Simplisafe/CNET If you're going with a fully home system that includes separate sensors and a hub to arm or disarm, you'll need to consider different package options that may include an assortment of devices including cameras, alarms, window sensors and motion detectors. (And if you prefer to build your own custom setup, virtually any home security device can be purchased separately.) We've got tested reviews on all of the major players in the security system space: What's the best video doorbell? Porch piracy is becoming more common; did you know that 1 in 6 people were victims of porch theft in the past year? If you're looking for a video doorbell to monitor your front door and deter porch pirates from stealing packages, there are tons of options available for under $200. They all function largely the same, so the best one for your home may come down to design, brand preferences and compatibility with any existing smart home devices or hubs you may have. You may also want to compare extra features like free cloud storage, customizable door chimes or color options when selecting the best smart doorbell for your home. Here are our reviews of some of the video doorbells you may be considering: The Arlo video doorbell is one of several strong options on the market. Chris Monroe/CNET What's the best home security camera? Blink's Outdoor 4 cam is easy to mount and reliable for watching an outdoor space. CNET/Tyler Lacoma Like video doorbells, the best home security camera may come down to price and brand preferences, but you'll also want to consider where you'll be placing the camera and the desired field of view. Some cameras have the ability to pan and tilt and can track motion. Others are built to withstand the rain, wind and temperature extremes of being outdoors. Almost all have motion detection, object recognition and two-way audio. If placing a camera outdoors, keep in mind that some cameras have a wired power source, so you may have to run an extension cord to plug it in. Here are our tested reviews of home security cameras for you to consider: Where should I put a home security camera? Home security cameras can help you keep an eye on things while you're away. Molly Price/CNET While you'll naturally want to put your home security camera in a spot that gives you the view you want, there's more to it than that. Corners are often the best spot for indoor cameras as they'll give you a wider view of the room, but if your camera has 360-degree panning, a central location may be best. As for outdoor cameras, try to install it 10 feet or so above the ground and in a spot where it won't take consistent exposure to direct sunlight or rain. Also, avoid installing any camera in a position that may compromise your neighbor's privacy. Video doorbells, meanwhile, should be installed about four feet up from the bottom of the doorframe. How can I give the impression someone is home while I'm away? Ikea's affordable smart lights. Ikea You can use smart plugs and lighting to make possible intruders think twice about whether or not your home is unoccupied. Schedule single light fixtures, such as a lamp, or a whole group of lights to turn on or off at various times while you're away. Plugs and lights won't watch your home the same as a camera or motion sensor will, but they could prevent an intruder from targeting your home in the first place. Also, they're a downright convenient way to turn the lights out at night. Can I get a home security system without a monthly subscription? Most DIY home security systems do not require a monthly subscription and come with live feed viewing, push notifications and alerts, local storage options and more at no extra cost. Several features often require a monthly fee, but this varies a lot between brands. Ring charges for object detection and smart alerts, while Nest doesn't. Nest offers limited free cloud storage, but most brands make you pay a subscription for online video storage. Lorex and Eufy specialize in local storage with less emphasis cloud data. With a little work, you can quickly find devices and whole systems that don't require any kind of subscription. The one caveat is professional home monitoring, where an agent at a security center can respond to your alarms or alerts. That's always going to cost you extra, and usually only becomes available at the higher tier plans. Ring's live views are easily accessible by users, but they're unlikely to be hacked. Ring/Amazon Can my home security system get hacked? Any kind of technology can have security vulnerabilities. However, your home security system isn't going to get hacked. Cybercriminals don't go around trying to hack doorbells or smart locks. They don't have the tools, the know-how or the time. Instead, home security can be "hacked" by people who already have the login information, like a jealous ex or a divorced spouse. That's why it's always a good idea to stay on top of your password management. The closest we've seen to home hacking is the use of security system jammers, but there are barely any reports of criminals actually using these devices and if they do, they usually have first-hand knowledge about the security system beforehand. Most burglars are simply going to test for unlocked doors and maybe smash a window if they're desperate. Instead, your information is more likely to be hacked in a massive data breach on a security company's servers, or stolen by a company employee, which is why we constantly watch for companies that have a track record of poor security practices. Leak detectors, especially battery models, can go nearly anywhere. Eufy How do I prepare for a home emergency? Home emergencies can include anything from raging wildfires to floods, earthquakes or really bad sewer system problems. The best way to handle events like these is with the right preparation. Even if you're caught off guard, keeping a cool head and contacting the right experts can keep the woes at bay. These guides are a great starting place. For more information about home security products and tips for creating and maintaining the best home security setup for your home, check out the CNET Home Security page.
CNET
25-05-2025
- Business
- CNET
Memorial Day Sales: Save Up to 63% on Our Favorite Arlo Security Cameras and More
The world doesn't always feel like the safest place these days. From package theft to unwanted visitors, it's easy to worry about what's happening around your home. That makes it essential to have a reliable security setup. Investing in home security, however, can get expensive. But right now, Arlo is making it easy to protect what matters most. Currently, Arlo is offering up to 63% off select products during its Memorial Day sale. The discount is available on both the official Arlo website and the Amazon store. We're spotting a lot on sale; whether you're after a reliable indoor camera or a video doorbell that supports two-way audio, there's something for everyone. Arlo's products have consistently performed well in our CNET tests. The 2K video doorbell, for example, is a favorite among our home security experts and was ranked the best video doorbell of the year in our latest roundup. It is currently down to just $60, after a whopping 54% discount. According to our editors, this one is quite easy to install, and apart from impressive features like high 2K resolution, night vision, and wide-angle 180-degree view, you also get handy extras like a built-in siren, customizable motion detection zones and two-way audio that lets you communicate to whoever is on the other side. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. If you're looking for a way to keep an eye on your kid or pet, the Arlo Essential indoor cam won't disappoint. It offers 2K resolution with zooming features that can help you focus on tiny details. The night vision is just as high-quality, and the two-way audio makes communication seamless. Right now, you can grab it for just $30, after a 63% discount. Looking for something else? Here are some more deals worth considering: If you like something, don't wait too long to grab it, as we don't know how long the stock or the sale will last. Why this deal matters Whether you're just getting started on home security or looking to upgrade your current setup, things can get expensive fast. These Arlo deals let you protect your property for less, whether you're shopping for efficient outdoor cameras or a nanny cam.
