Uncover the Hidden Costs of Arlo: Do You Really Need a Subscription?
Arlo security cameras are some of the most popular smart home devices available on the market. With their wireless setup, high-definition video, and advanced features like motion detection and night vision, Arlo has become a trusted name for home security. However, as with many tech products, there are hidden costs associated with owning and operating Arlo cameras. While the initial cost of the devices may seem reasonable, Arlo’s subscription plans and additional features can add up over time. In this article, we’ll explore the hidden costs of Arlo and help you decide if a subscription is really necessary for your needs.
What is Arlo and How Does It Work?
Before diving into the hidden costs, it’s important to understand what Arlo is and how it works. Arlo is a brand of smart security cameras that offer both indoor and outdoor surveillance options. These cameras connect to your home Wi-Fi network and provide real-time video footage through the Arlo app. Arlo offers several models, including the Arlo Pro, Arlo Ultra, and Arlo Go, each offering different features such as HD video quality, two-way audio, and cloud storage options.
Arlo’s core functionality is simple: it records video whenever motion is detected, allowing you to monitor your home or business remotely. Some models also offer features like live streaming, push notifications, and integration with smart home systems like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Arlo Free Plan: What’s Included?
Arlo offers a free plan that allows users to access some basic features without paying for a subscription. Here’s what you get with the free plan:
- Live streaming of video feeds
- 7-day cloud storage for video clips (up to 1GB of storage)
- Motion detection alerts
- Access to Arlo app for remote monitoring
While the free plan is adequate for basic use, it comes with significant limitations that might not meet the needs of every user. For instance, the 7-day cloud storage is relatively short, and the storage space is capped at 1GB, which could quickly fill up depending on the frequency of motion events and the number of cameras you have.
The Hidden Costs of Arlo: Understanding the Subscription Plans
Although the free plan is functional, Arlo’s paid subscription plans are what unlock the full potential of the security cameras. These plans come with additional features, including extended video storage, advanced camera functionalities, and enhanced customer support. Here’s an overview of the primary Arlo subscription options:
- Arlo Secure: This plan starts at $3 per month per camera. It includes 30-day cloud storage for video clips, advanced object detection, and activity zones for better motion detection accuracy. It also adds emergency response features, allowing you to connect with first responders if an incident occurs.
- Arlo Secure Plus: Priced at $10 per month per camera, this plan offers all the features of Arlo Secure, plus 60-day cloud storage, 4K video support (if your camera supports it), and a more comprehensive AI detection system.
- Arlo Smart Home: This tier provides smart home integration features such as voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant, and integration with third-party smart devices. Pricing and availability may vary based on location and specific needs.
What You Don’t Get with Free Plans
If you rely solely on the free plan, you’ll be missing out on several key features that can significantly improve your security setup. These include:
- Longer Cloud Storage: With only 7 days of cloud storage, you risk losing important footage after a short period of time. Longer cloud storage can help keep your footage available for a longer duration, which is especially useful if you need to review past events or in case of a security breach.
- Advanced Motion Detection: The free plan provides basic motion detection, but you won’t get advanced features such as activity zones or smart detection that helps to avoid false alarms.
- Video Recording Quality: For better video resolution (such as 4K), you’ll need to subscribe to higher-tier plans like Arlo Secure Plus. These plans are especially beneficial for larger properties or high-risk areas where fine details matter.
Arlo’s Potential Hidden Costs
Aside from the monthly subscription fees, there are other hidden costs of owning an Arlo security system that might not be immediately obvious. Here are some of the unexpected costs to consider:
- Additional Cameras: If you want to expand your system and add more cameras, each additional unit typically requires its own subscription. This can lead to a higher overall cost as you increase the number of cameras in your security setup.
- Battery Replacement: Arlo cameras are battery-powered, and while they are designed to last for months on a single charge, the batteries will eventually need to be replaced. Depending on usage and model, replacement batteries can cost $30 to $60 per camera.
- Smart Hub or Base Station: If your Arlo camera system uses a smart hub or base station (required for some models), there may be additional costs for purchasing and maintaining these devices. Some hubs come with subscription services bundled, which can add to the ongoing costs.
- Accessories: Arlo offers various accessories such as outdoor mounts, solar panel chargers, and extra storage options. While these are optional, they can add up if you want to customize your security system.
Should You Upgrade to an Arlo Subscription?
Whether or not you need an Arlo subscription depends on your security needs. Here’s a simple step-by-step process to help you decide:
Step 1: Evaluate Your Security Needs
Do you need constant video footage stored for later viewing? If so, a subscription plan is likely worth it for the extended cloud storage. If you only need occasional monitoring or your surveillance needs are minimal, the free plan might suffice.
Step 2: Consider the Size of Your Property
If you have a large property or multiple areas to monitor, you might need multiple cameras, which could quickly make the cost of subscription plans more appealing. With multiple cameras, the storage and advanced detection features offered by the subscription can make managing the footage much easier.
Step 3: Analyze Your Budget
While the free plan is a great starting point, you need to consider whether the added benefits of a subscription plan are worth the cost. If your budget allows for a few dollars each month, the extra cloud storage and smart features can improve your overall security system.
Step 4: Test the Free Plan First
If you’re unsure, try the free plan first and see if it meets your needs. You can always upgrade to a paid plan later if you find you need the extra features.
Troubleshooting Tips for Arlo Systems
If you experience issues with your Arlo cameras, there are a few common troubleshooting steps you can take:
- Check Wi-Fi Connection: Ensure that your camera is within range of your router and that the Wi-Fi signal is strong. Weak signals can cause video streaming issues.
- Reboot Your Camera: Sometimes simply rebooting your Arlo camera or base station can resolve connectivity or performance issues.
- Ensure Firmware is Up to Date: Check the Arlo app or web portal for any available firmware updates to ensure your camera is running the latest software version.
- Contact Customer Support: If all else fails, contact Arlo support for assistance. They offer troubleshooting guides and customer service to help resolve issues.
Conclusion: Is an Arlo Subscription Worth It?
Arlo offers a variety of features that make it one of the best smart security cameras on the market. However, the costs can quickly add up, especially if you opt for their subscription plans. Whether or not you should upgrade depends on your specific needs. If you require more storage, advanced detection, or additional cameras, the subscription plans might be worth it. On the other hand, if you only need basic monitoring, the free plan might be sufficient.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your security priorities and budget. Start with the free plan, evaluate your needs, and decide if an upgrade makes sense. If you’re interested in exploring more about Arlo or other smart security systems, you can check out this guide on home security cameras for additional insights.
For more details on Arlo’s subscription plans, visit their official website at Arlo.com.
This article is in the category Reviews and created by FutureSmarthome Team