Arlo just introduced a security camera that’s actually affordable
It looks exactly like the other Arlo cameras, but costs a lot less.
Arlo
I like Arlo’s line of Outdoor cameras. The Arlo Pro 3 is just our current favorite camera for home security. But they have one major disadvantage: Arlo cameras are expensive. However, the brand’s newest model – the Essential Spotlight Camera – costs $ 130. No, $ 130 isn’t cheap, but it’s a pretty significant improvement over Arlo’s high-end options.
Here is an overview of the Essential Spotlight camera:
- Weatherproof
- Battery powered
- 1080p HD resolution
- Night vision
- Motion alarms
- Two way audio
- Built-in siren
- Built-in headlamp
- Supports Alexa and Google Assistant
- Available in black or white
Essential Spotlight Camera customers can sign up for the Arlo Smart Cloud service starting at $ 3 a month. Arlo Smart offers 30-day video clips, advanced motion alarms that differentiate between people, animals, vehicles and packages, activity zones, and more.
In contrast to other battery-operated Arlo surveillance cameras for indoor and outdoor use, the Essential Spotlight camera does not require a base station for operation. For me, being able to connect directly to Wi-Fi is a huge bonus – and probably the reason for the lower price. However, you have the option of connecting selected Arlo base stations if you already have one. It is specifically compatible with Arlo SmartHub base stations with model numbers VMB4000, VMB4540, VMB4500 and VMB5000.
This model also differs from other Arlo cameras and does not have a removable battery. Instead, you have to carry the whole thing inside to charge it.
Arlo has long claimed that its base stations extend the range and improve the battery life of its cameras. So it will be interesting to test the Essential Spotlight camera alongside Arlo cameras that require the base station. Arlo tells me that the Essential camera should last up to five months before it needs to be charged, while base station models should last six months.
You can pre-order the Essential Spotlight camera in the Arlo online shop. It is expected to ship from July 13th.
