I lived in an era when guard dogs reigned supreme when it comes to keeping burglars away. Today, the world is evolving, and security camera systems are taking the lead in this industry. It’s easy to see why. They’re convenient, they’re good looking, and they allow you to keep an eye on your property, kids, and pets from anywhere. The choices are countless in this category, but if you’re willing to shell out a good amount of money in exchange for the best of the best, there’s only one product that we can recommend; the Arlo Pro 2 security camera system.
Design and Connectivity
With a reasonable weight (4.8 ounces) and packed size (3.1 by 1.9 by 2.8 inches), the Arlo Pro 2 does the trick as both an indoor and outdoor surveillance camera. The device shares the same exterior design of its predecessor, the Arlo Pro, which is also an excellent device in terms of video quality, features, and performance. The only difference between the two is that the Pro 2 has a smaller black front panel. Nothing major, so chances are you wouldn’t be able to differentiate the two. Side by side.
The build quality of the Arlo Pro 2 is second to none. The glossy white housing that protects the internal components is IP65 waterproof certified, meaning that this camera can withstand different weather conditions with ease.
Thanks to the embedded magnet in the rear of the enclosure, the Arlo Pro 2 can be attached to the included metal mounts or any metal surface. Alternatively, you can place this security camera on any flat surface. Yep, it’s a real beast when it comes to versatility.
The Arlo Pro 2 is a wireless camera so it can be mounted anywhere without worrying about wires and connectors. What’s even more convenient is that it packs a rechargeable battery pack that can keep the device running for six months on a single charge. If you’re planning to use the system for indoor monitoring and don’t want to rely on batteries, rest assured as the Pro 2 can run on AC power as well.
Setup and Installation
Using Wi-Fi for connectivity and batteries for power, this camera is simplicity itself to use, and certainly all the reviews can attest to the user-friendly and easy operational aspect to the Arlo Pro 2 security camera system. To install and configure the system, here’s what you have to do:
- Install the Arlo app on your smartphone and create an account.
- Connect the base station to your router and tap Add Device in the app.
- Once your base station gets recognized, insert the battery packs and turn on the cameras.
- Keep the devices within three feet of the station then sync the cameras by clicking on the Sync button on the station.
- Mount the cameras wherever you want, and voila! Your system’s ready for 24/7 monitoring.
Camera Features
Unlike the Arlo Pro, the Pro 2 model can record and stream 1080p videos and offers a 130-degree field of view, which is an upgrade over its predecessor. The camera also has night vision capabilities, which is essentials for around-the-hour monitoring.
The Arlo Pro 2 can live stream 24/7, but it only records when motion or sound is detected, which is reasonable considering that you wouldn’t want to fill your storage with empty footages. If you wish to 24/7 recording, you can subscribe to a CVR plan, although we don’t think it would be necessary.
Extra features
Arlo Pro 2 boasts many features that add to the security aspect. You can set Activity Zones in the camera. That feature allows you to focus the Arlo Pro 2 on a specific area of the field of view so that any motion coming from the pre-defined zone would trigger a recording and alert. Furthermore, you get a Look Back feature, which uses pre-buffering technology to the snap the last three seconds of activity that precede a motion- or sound- triggered event. Both the Look Back and Activity Zones features require plugging the cameras to an AC outlet.
Other features that we dig include the smart security siren functionality, which triggers a 100-decibel siren located in the base station when a suspicious movement or sound is detected. For this feature to be useful and serve its purpose, make sure the base station is well-placed. Two-way audio is also available, which means that you can communicate with whoever’s in front of the camera without leaving your house.
Price
The Arlo Pro 2 is expensive because it’s part of a full surveillance system. You can’t grab a single camera and start monitoring. Instead, you need the base station, which measures 5.0 by 6.9 by 2.3 inches and comes with LED indicators, along with a couple of cameras for the starter kit. If you’ve already purchased the Arlo Pro, you don’t need to buy a new base station, as the newer model can work with what you have.
Verdict of the Arlo Pro 2
The Arlo Pro 2 security camera system is expensive, there’s no denying that.
Is it worth the price? Absolutely. The system gives complete peace of mind as the starter kit includes a couple of weatherproof cameras capable of withstanding the harshest of conditions and snapping crisp-clear vids and images any time of the day, two-way audio, a 100-decibel siren, and a handful of other features.
If you understand that quality comes at a price – which you’re willing to pay – the Arlo Pro 2 is the best security camera system for you.
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