Cheaper than the previous generation Arlo Pro 3 and offering the same excellent image quality alongside similar features, the Arlo Pro 4 security camera can now be connected directly to the local WiFi network, without an additional module. More convenient, the Arlo Pro 4 looks to be the ultimate indoor/outdoor security camera.
Arlo Pro 4: packaging & accessories
The two-camera pack that we received included the respective batteries, a magnetic charging cable, a mains adapter, two wall brackets (once magnetic and one with screws), two sets of screws and a quick start guide.
Arlo Pro 4: key specifications
- Maximum video resolution: 2560 x 1440 pixels
- Video modes: 2K, 1080p, 720p
- Automatic zoom and tracking, HDR, H.264 and H.265 coding
- 160° field of view (diagonal)
- Autonomy: 3 to 6 months
- Single microphone with noise and echo cancelling
- Full duplex bidirectional sound
- Wall brackets
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 89 x 52 x 78.4mm
- Weight: 316g
The Arlo cameras allow you to monitor a large area very easily thanks to the well-designed Arlo Secure app. The latter lets you configure each camera separately.
Arlo Pro 4: presentation
The main disadvantage of the original Arlo security cameras was the fact that you needed the Arlo Base Station to connect the cameras, and the additional expense this entailed. The Arlo Pro 4 solves this problem by eliminating the need to own this base. Now, each camera is directly connected to your WiFi network. The Arlo Pro 4 surveillance camera is completely independent and you can use as many as you like to cover every inch of your home. The Arlo Secure app lets you group them and manage them individually.
Arlo Pro 4: configuration
If you place the Arlo Pro 4 next to the Arlo Pro 3, you probably won’t notice any cosmetic differences. Both cameras are elegant with an oval design. Measuring 89 x 52 x 78mm, they are very compact and will remain discreet. They come with a magnetic bracket to mount them on a wall inside the house or outside, but it is also possible to use the screw mount on the bottom of the camera if you prefer to have a more flexible and adjustable support. The magnetic bracket is the easiest to install: a single screw and the camera will be instantly operational.
The Arlo Pro 4 was powered by its built-in battery. Pressing the frame release button once slides the camera forward slightly and locks it into position to prevent it from being accidentally ejected and falling to the ground.
Once the central part of the camera is ejected, you can remove the battery and charge it with an Arlo battery charger. However, it is much easier to charge the entire camera, with the battery installed, and use the included magnetic cable. The Arlo Pro 4 security camera has a battery life of about 20 weeks on one charge.
Arlo Pro 4: application
- The Arlo Secure subscription is necessary to benefit from the main features
- Excellent control of the different detection modes
- Intelligent detection and control by zones
With the Arlo Pro 4 security camera, you get a free trial version of Arlo Secure that allows you to save video recordings on the Cloud. If you don’t want to subscribe for this cloud storage, you will only get basic detection. If you have an Arlo base, it will still be possible to record in offline mode. The subscription therefore becomes essential pretty quickly. This subscription is not dependent on the number and type of cameras you have. The Arlo Secure app will then allow you to record videos in 2K on the cloud for €9.99 per month with a 30-day storage. The Arlo system has many advantages that justify this higher monthly cost. Firstly, you can use activity zones, which allow you to focus the camera on the zones that you want to cover and ignore the others. Without a subscription, the cameras will only record when movement is detected. It is still important to aim the camera carefully, as any movement will activate it. The activity zones simply determine when the Pro 4 continues to record. You will also be able to distinguish between animals and people, and parcel deliveries. Consequently, we recommend that you opt for the subscription to enjoy the camera’s best features.
Arlo Pro 4: features
You can use smart alerts to be informed of specific events, even though everything is recorded. You can choose between detecting people, vehicles, animals and all other movements. Object detection is very good. Of course, the system sometimes makes mistakes, but in the vast majority of cases, the Pro 4 and Arlo Secure cameras do their job well. You can also add carbon monoxide and smoke detection, so that the cameras alert you if your smoke alarm goes off. All video recordings are saved in the app’s library, which you can filter by date and event type. The videos are illustrated by a thumbnail, making it easy to find and watch specific events. It is then possible to download the recordings to store them indefinitely or share them with law enforcement.
The other features are the same with or without a subscription. Via the application, it is possible to access the live view and have a clear conversation with the people you see. You can also trigger an 80 dB siren: it’s loud enough to warn someone that they’ve been spotted and could potentially deter thieves. It is also possible to turn the bright LED spotlight on manually to light up the area. This spotlight can also be set to turn on automatically when motion is detected.
One of the real strengths of the Arlo system is the degree of control offered by the many operating modes. These simply tell the system when a camera should or should not record. You can control groups of cameras together or individually.
The default features are the active mode (recording) and deactivated mode (no recording), which can be defined manually. Alternatively, you can use the schedule function with a calendar, which will allow you to set the times when the cameras are on and off. You can also use the phone’s geolocation to have your cameras turn on only when you go out. This feature is extremely convenient, as it allows you to record when you want to and protect your privacy.
You can also set custom modes by selecting which cameras are active. Like the other Arlo cameras, the Pro 4 works with SmartThings for home automation and voice control. Via this system, it is possible to view live images and to turn the camera on or off. This allows you to control the Pro 4 via SmartThings’ routines: turn the camera off when you unlock a smart lock, for example. Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are available, allowing you to stream recordings to a compatible TV or speaker such as the Echo Show or Nest Hub. If you set up a voice PIN, you can arm and disarm the camera with Alexa or Google Assistant. The Arlo Pro 4 is compatible with HomeKit, although you can only view recordings via the Apple Home app.
Arlo Pro 4: video quality
- 2K high resolution video
- Exceptional sharpness during the day
- Color night vision
With its 2K (2560 x 1440) resolution, 160° wide angle lens and HDR compatibility, the Arlo Pro 4 offers some of the best video quality we’ve seen from a surveillance camera. It’s definitely an improvement over the 1080p images of competing models. Daytime image quality is excellent: videos are sharp, detailed and extremely well exposed. You can see what is happening in each image very clearly.
At night, the camera records with its infrared lights, which results in a softer black and white image. However, when the spotlight is on, there is enough light to capture color video. The image is a little less detailed than during the day, but the high resolution makes it possible to clearly distinguish each element or the characteristics of possible intruders.
Arlo Pro 4: who is it for?
If you want excellent image quality, both during the day and at night, and an efficient and very versatile app, the Arlo Pro 4 is for you. If you don’t want to pay a monthly subscription fee, the features will be more limited.
Conclusion
The Arlo Pro 4 is the best security camera on the market: its high-resolution image is excellent. With the ability to connect other cameras in the range and manage them independently or in groups, the Arlo Pro 4 ensures perfect home surveillance, whatever the circumstances.
We liked
- The excellent image quality at day and at night
- The many settings
- The WiFi compatibility
- The 20 weeks of autonomy
We would have liked
- A cheaper cloud subscription
