When it comes to high-quality security camera systems, none can beat the Arlo brand. Its top product series are perhaps the Arlo Q and the Arlo Pro Security Camera Systems. But the real question is how each product family compares with one another.
We’re pitting brother against brother to help you find out which one conquers the others! This ultimate showdown will help you figure out which one suits you best. Read ahead to find the ultimate winner.
In this article we will compare Arlo Q vs Q Plus vs Arlo Pro/Pro2 camera models. Have a look at the table below for a quick side-by-side comparison and overview of the most important features of each model.
Brief Review of Arlo Q and Q Plus Camera Systems
The Arlo Q security camera system contains everything you need to monitor your home indoor area or pets when you’re out! The 1080p HD quality camera ensures clearer images and intricate details so you can keep an eye on everything. Also, the 130-degree wide lens allows you a wider field of view.
The best part is the 2-way audio that allows you to speak and hear from your smartphone. This makes it easier to help your dog or other pets feel more at ease. What’s more is that the Arlo Q security system is integrated with a high-quality infrared light which enables a clear image even in the dark.
Scared of home invasion when you’re out? The Arlo Q system automatically records any motion or sound triggered activities. These recordings are further saved on the Cloud Storage for about 7 days. You can even use the cloud to enable Continuous Video Recording (CVR) all the time but this requires an optional paid plan.
The Arlo Q system works well with all kinds of house assistants such as Alexa, IFTTT etc. The system connects to your WiFi network and you can manage the cameras with your smartphone through a mobile app. This app includes a ton of features such as a live stream, mobile alert detection, scheduling, settings, and sharing.
Something to have in mind is that the Arlo Q models are standalone cameras and do not depend on a central Hub station like the Arlo Pro.
Pros:
- Two-way
- High-quality HD camera and wide angle view.
- Includes night vision.
- Automatic sound and motion detector and recording.
- Includes a mobile app with tons of features.
- Able to record continuously 24/7 (CVR).
Cons:
- Can work only Indoors.
- Not weather resistant.
- No security Siren.
- No battery operation.
Arlo Q Vs Q Plus
One of the few differences between Arlo Q and Q-plus is the way they are powered. The normal Arlo Q camera is AC powered with wire power adaptor.
On the other hand, the Q-plus model is powered by PoE (Power Over Ethernet) in addition to wired AC adaptor and is more suitable for business environments where the network is equipped with Power over Ethernet switches (although it can be used in homes as well).
Another subtle difference between Arlo Q and Q-plus is that the latter includes also a slot for MicroSD storage card for additional local storage of recordings in addition to cloud.
Brief Review of Arlo Pro/Pro2 Camera Systems:
Where the Arlo Q is perfect for indoor use, the Arlo Pro and Pro2 are suitable for both indoor and outdoor area monitoring.
You can easily use the cameras plugged in on AC power or without a wire using a rechargeable battery. This makes it easier to place it anywhere since you don’t need a power outlet.
Furthermore, the cameras are IP65 certified to be weather resistant which means you can use the camera to keep a lookout in the worst weather conditions. The Arlo Pro System ensures HD video quality (720p) and allows you to watch recordings as well as stream the view live!
There are two Arlo Pro models: The normal Arlo Pro and Pro 2. The only difference is the video recording quality. The first one supports 720p and the second model (Pro2) supports 1080p video quality.
Since the system is wireless, it uses a long-lasting rechargeable battery to ensure your camera never stops working. Also included is a 2-way audio system which makes it easy to speak and hear your pets or even “talk and scare” to an intruder. The wide angled lens (130 degrees) includes a motion detector as well to ensure that you notice each and every movement.
Furthermore, the system is integrated with high-quality night vision which automatically switches on in the dark. The 7 Day cloud storage system allows you to store recordings for about a week so you can replay it. If you feel like not using the cloud, you can use a local storage drive as a backup.
With the Arlo Pro, you won’t need to worry about any unwelcome house visits. The smart siren system activates when triggered by any motion or audio or you can activate it remotely as well.
The loud siren of Arlo Pro/Pro2 is embedded on the Hub Station of the system. This hub station is used to control the cameras and is something that is not included on Arlo Q product (Arlo Q are standalone cameras).
Pros:
- 2-way audio system and includes a motion
- HD quality camera and night vision.
- A smart siren system to deter robbers.
- Can be used indoors or outdoors.
- Includes cloud and local storage.
- Weather resistant.
- Flexible power options (AC power, battery, solar)
Cons:
- Mobile application lags.
- Not able to record continuously due to the battery running out.
Arlo Q Vs Arlo Pro – Main Similarities
The Arlo Pro and the Arlo Q have many similar features as they were both manufactured by the same company. The main similarities between the two systems are:
NOTE: When we refer to Arlo Pro, this includes both Arlo Pro and Pro2 models. Also, when we refer to Arlo Q it includes also Q-plus model as well.
- Mobile App: Both systems allow you to control the camera and view live feed through the mobile app.
- Detection Zones: These systems allow you to customize motion detection zones.
- Field of View: They both have a wide field of view at about 130 degrees.
- 2-Way Communication System: The Arlo Q and the Arlo Pro both include a 2-way communication system so you can easily hear and speak to folks or pets at home.
- Night vision: It is included on both the systems.
- Cloud Storage: You can upload recordings of up to 7 days on the cloud storage. This allows you to play back these recordings for any signs of disturbances.
- 3rd Party Compatibility: Both systems are compatible with house assistants.
Arlo Q Vs Arlo Pro – Main Differences
Although they have many similarities, there are some notable differences as well. This allows you to make a better choice according to your needs. These main differences can be summed up as follows:
NOTE: When we refer to Arlo Pro, this includes both Arlo Pro and Pro2 models. Also, when we refer to Arlo Q it includes also Q-plus model as well.
- Outdoor/Indoor: The Arlo Pro can be used both for outdoor and indoor use while the Arlo Q is only suitable for indoor use.
- Weather Resistance: Only the Arlo Pro is weatherproof and resistant whereas the Q is not.
- Power Options: The Arlo Pro comes with three different power options including AC wired, battery and solar power. On the other hand, the Q can only be used while plugged in AC power.
- Video Quality: The Arlo Q records in 1080p HD quality while the Pro records in 720p (only the Pro2 supports 1080p quality).
- Siren System: The Arlo Pro has a loud siren system which you can activate remotely or by detection while the Q does not have a siren.
- Continuous Video Recording: the Arlo Q offers CVR option whereas the Pro does not. Note that the Pro2 supports CVR only when its plugged in AC power. For CVR, you need an optional paid subscription plan.
- Base Station: The Q does not require a separate base station while the Pro version does.
- Sleep Mode: You can put the Arlo Pro on sleep mode to conserve energy when needed. The Arlo Q does not have a sleep mode.
- Local Backup: The Arlo Q does not allow for any local backup while the Pro allows for a USB storage option.
Conclusion:
All in all, the Arlo Pro and the Arlo Q are tough competitors. Each system has unique features that set it apart. Of course, Arlo Pro has perhaps more pros than the Q, however it comes at a slightly higher price. If you go with the normal Arlo Pro system (not Pro2) with two cameras, the price difference with Arlo Q (two cameras) is not that big.
For someone who only wishes to have a high-quality camera for Indoor monitoring only, the Arlo Q will suffice.
On the other hand, if you’re willing to dish a little bit more cash for monitoring both Indoors and Outdoors, then go with your heart and choose the unique Arlo Pro Security system. Its siren also will work as a great deterrent to intruders and can work both as monitoring system and as home security and deterrent system as well.
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