Arlo Security Cameras Review (2026)

Last Updated: January 2026

Arlo focuses on wireless and wire-free cameras with optional Arlo Secure. We review the lineup, subscription, and who it's best for.

What Arlo Does Well

Arlo is built around wire-free and wireless cameras that you can place almost anywhere. Battery-powered models don't need outlets or Ethernet, so you can mount them on fences, garages, and corners where running wire is difficult. Wired and plugged-in options exist for users who prefer continuous power and, in some cases, 24/7 recording. The lineup includes doorbells, indoor and outdoor cameras, and add-ons like solar panels and mounts.

The Arlo app lets you view live and recorded video, adjust motion zones, and manage multiple cameras. Arlo Secure (and Secure Plus) adds person, vehicle, and animal detection, cloud storage, and activity zones. Without a subscription, you get live streaming and a short rolling buffer, but you miss most of the smart detection and longer history. Arlo does not offer an alarm panel, door/window sensors, or professional monitoring; it's a camera and doorbell ecosystem. For a full alarm, you'd pair Arlo with another system or use it only for video.

Equipment and Setup

Arlo cameras typically connect to your Wi-Fi; some models use a dedicated hub or base that can improve range and local storage. Setup is in-app: add the base or camera, follow prompts, and mount. Battery life varies by model and use; heavy traffic or cold weather can shorten it. Solar panels and wired options help if you don't want to recharge or swap batteries. Video quality is generally good; higher-end models offer 2K or 4K, HDR, and better low-light performance.

Arlo has added smart home integrations over time, including Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit on some devices. It's more camera-centric than Ring or Nest; there's no alarm to arm or disarm, so it fits users who want surveillance and alerts rather than a traditional security system.

Pricing and Arlo Secure

Arlo hardware is mid- to high-range. Arlo Secure adds a monthly or annual fee. Multi-camera and unlimited camera tiers are available. Compared to Ring or Nest, Arlo often costs more per camera, but the flexibility of wire-free placement and the option for local storage on some bases can justify it. If you need 24/7 professional monitoring and an alarm, you'll need to look at Ring, SimpliSafe, ADT, or others; Arlo doesn't provide that.

Who Arlo Is Best For

Arlo fits users who prioritize cameras and placement flexibility over a full alarm system. It's a good fit for renters, odd layouts, and outdoors where wiring is hard. If you want one system for alarm, sensors, and cameras, Ring or SimpliSafe are better. If you want the best wire-free cameras and are fine with video-only (or pairing with another alarm), Arlo is among the top choices.

Pros

  • Wire-free and flexible camera placement
  • Good video quality and weather resistance
  • Arlo Secure adds useful detection and storage
  • Works with Alexa, Google, and some HomeKit

Cons

  • No alarm panel or professional monitoring
  • Battery life can vary with use and weather
  • Higher per-camera cost than many Ring or Wyze models

FAQs

Can Arlo replace a full security system?
Only if you only need video. Arlo has no sensors or pro monitoring. For an alarm, pair it with something like SimpliSafe or use Arlo for cameras only.
Do I need Arlo Secure?
For person/vehicle detection and cloud history, yes. Without it, you get live view and a short buffer only.
How does Arlo compare to Ring?
Arlo is stronger on wire-free cameras and placement; Ring has an alarm, sensors, and optional monitoring in one ecosystem. Choose Arlo for cameras; Ring for alarm plus cameras.

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