Arlo Essentials Outdoor 2K Camera (2nd Generation) Review
Summary: The Arlo Essentials Outdoor 2K Camera (2nd Generation) is affordable security made easy!
4.5
Affordable security
From the Arlo Essentials line comes their affordably priced Arlo Essentials Outdoor 2K Camera (2nd Generation) with an RRP of just $149AUD (April 2024). This very compact camera from Arlo also supports a resolution of 2K (2048 x 1080), including colour night vision plus 2-way noise-cancelling audio with the ability of accessing it from anywhere in the world for live vision and notifications thanks its companion app. It also has an integrated spotlight and siren to ensure additional protective features for your property should an unauthorised person to your property trigger the Arlo Essentials Outdoor 2K Camera (2nd Generation) sensors.
Although this product can be used without a subscription for notifications, live feed and also two-way audio communication, you do need a paid subscription to Arlo to maximise the capabilities of this security device. A 12-month subscription for the basic secure plan is $7.99 per month for one camera or $12.99 per month for unlimited cameras. This allows you to see up to 30 days of video (2k) and event recordings, receive alerts, watch animated previews prior to the trigger and receive Arlo priority care and support. An annual subscription is slightly cheaper at $89.99 per year or $149.99 per year for unlimited cameras.
ARLO ESSENTIALS OUTDOOR 2K CAMERA (2ND GENERATION) KEY FEATURES
- 2K (2048 x 1080) Video
- 12 x zoom
- Motion Detection & Alerts
- Colour night vision
- Noise-Cancelling Audio
- Integrated Spotlight
- Integrated Siren
- Weather Resistant
- Rechargeable Battery
- Easy DIY installation with wire-free setup and mount
- Direct to Wi-Fi
Box contents
- Essential Outdoor Security Camera
- USB indoor charging cable
- Wall Mount and screw kit
- Quick start guide
Unboxing Gallery
As you can see from the above images, the overall build quality is decent for the Arlo Essentials Outdoor 2K Camera (2nd Generation) and as its weather resistant, you can rest assured that the device will protected from the elements. According to Arlo, the battery can last up to 4-months, however this is dependent on what the device monitors and the number of videos it records, so your mileage may vary.
In order to experience the best connection to your network, you do need a decent router or modem / router which provides improved wireless coverage compared to cheaper alternatives. Additionally extenders or a mesh network is a necessity. The best way to test your Wi-Fi connection is download a Wi-Fi Analyser app for your smartphone which is a great way to determine the placement of the Arlo which also uses the 2.4Hz band. If you are having issues with your Wi-Fi, you can reduce the video quality, including its monitoring capabilities.
The only drawback with the essentials camera is the included mount which limits direction. However Arlo do have an indoor / outdoor mount that allows for total maneuverability at just $19 from places such as JB Hi-Fi.
Before you place the camera, you need to set it up via the app which is a very straight forward process and you simply follow the wizard on the Arlo app. This basically involves turning the camera on, setting it up to your network and naming it. The app is very straight forward to use, including setting up your notifications and adjusting the sensitivity of its sensors. Compared to the Ring app, the Arlo Secure app has a far superior layout. I also like how it displays what triggered a detection such as a person, car or animal. Further, you can setup a friend or neighbour as an emergency contact should the Arlo camera be triggered.
There are also three different monitoring options that include Arm Away which is the highest setting, Arm Home, reduced security monitoring and also standby with no detection. However on Arm Away and Arm Home, if it detects movement or sound, it will send you a notification and you can even set a siren as well which is not that loud but hopefully something to deter an intruder. The app will also update the device if needed and all in all, it’s a great app that is very simple to use and the live feed is quite fast. If you have a smart assistant like Alexa, you can also link the camera to it which is great if you have a video enabled device such as the Echo Show.
The video quality of the Arlo Essentials Outdoor 2K Camera (2nd Generation) is impressive for the price of this security device with sharp images and vibrant colours during daylight hours. The detail is quite crisp thanks to 2K (2560 x 1440) and also supporting the video quality during daylight hours is the clear audio that it can also capture. Night vision is also quite decent and will easily allow you see who the person is on the other end.
Final Thoughts?
All in all the Arlo Essentials Outdoor 2K Camera (2nd Generation) provides excellent value for money for the end user with an easy setup and install. Additionally the Arlo Secure app works well and more importantly, the video and audio recordings are of a high calibre. The only caveat that is similar to other companies is that you need a subscription to take full advantage of the Arlo Essentials Outdoor 2K Camera.
Recommended!
Product Details
ARLO ESSENTIALS OUTDOOR 2K CAMERA (2ND GENERATION)
MODEL: VMC3050-100AUS
SKU: 662432
PLU: 193108145688
PRICE: $149
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