Arlo vs Nest – Which Security Camera is Best?

Video doorbells and cameras are great ways for owners to monitor their homes. Google Nest and Arlo Home Security Systems are the two leading brands in the market that manufacture both security cameras and video doorbells. Both of these brands have great features in their surveillance gadgets.

Even though their gadgets come with some similar features, there are certain differences between the Arlo and Nest products. As a homeowner, you may not be confused among these two options while looking for home surveillance products. Here, we will offer you in-depth details and a comparison of both brands to help you make an informed decision.

Arlo Security Camera

Arlo security cameras are made by Arlo Technologies Inc., a company based in California. The band was earlier a sister concern of Netgear. The first ever camera from Arlo was launched in 2014 and the brand designs AC-powered surveillance cameras. One of the major features of Arlo cameras is their mechanical privacy shield.

Arlo also emphasizes wireless connectivity through its Arlo Smart Hub, making all its cameras wireless. On top of that, the brand has also combined Machine Learning technology with surveillance technology to create a “Smart Detection ” AI feature on their cameras that run on Wi-Fi and LTE. On top of that, the brand also has video doorbells, traditional wired cameras, and smart security lights.

Pros

• Smart motion detection with Artificial intelligence and machine learning
• Wide range of camera models
• User-friendly installation
• Battery powered camera
• 2k and 4k video recording
• Better home integration with security cameras
• Better performance at low light conditions
• Wider angle of view
• Pocket-friendly alarm models
  

Cons

• The camera and doorbells are comparatively expensive
• Smart lock not available
• Cloud storage requires a subscription
• 4K cameras are expensive
• Some models only work with a base station
  

Nest Security Camera

Nest from Google was originally a small start-up company founded by two ex-Apple employees, Matt Rogers and Tony Fadell, in 2010. The duo started with smart thermostats and then moved on to designing smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Google acquired Nest Labs and another start-up, Dropcam, in 2014. Then Google started manufacturing all the cameras in the Lest La and developed an advanced Nest Security Camera with smart features.

In 2018, Nest Labs was merged with the Google Hardware Device team, where devices are developed with the direct supervision of the Google expert team.

Pros

• Great hardware design
• Great video calling during the day and night
• Affordable cloud storage option
• Video Storage: Does it needs a premium subscription
• Attractive designs
• Smart motion detection
• Pocket friendly
  

Cons

• Only 1080p video quality
• Only 130 degrees of viewing angle
• Face detection is available with only the premium plan
  

Arlo vs Nest: Similarities

1. Night Vision

For any security camera, night vision is an important feature to consider. If you check out the night vision capability, both Arlo and Nest can perform well. Both brands offer clear night vision pictures and videos with proper illumination. But Arlo cameras win by a sleek margin due to the extra features. Arlo cameras come with special technology of Color night vision that allows you to view car plates or faces in full color.

If you are looking for something extra besides the regular night vision, you can go for Arlo cameras.

2. Motion Detection

Google Nest cameras and doorbells use passive infrared (PIR) motion and proximity sensors to detect movements in the vicinity. It works pretty well. However, Arlo cameras fare a bit better due to their “Smart Detection” feature, which combines artificial intelligence and machine learning to detect footprints and objects accurately. The camera can detect any meet and can send alerts by detecting these movements and activities like package delivery, pet notification, etc.

3. Audio

Both the Nest camera and Arlo camera models come with two-way audio that clears audio and allows you to communicate with the person on the other side of the camera. All the best cameras come with two-way audio communication features. But, in the case of Arlo, all cameras except Arlo Pro come with two-way talk features.

4. Connectivity

Both Arlo and Nest cameras work well with a Wi-Fi connection. Since Arlo cameras do not have wires, they need Wi-Fi to function and remain connected. Even though the Nest cameras are wired, these cameras do not have any local storage option and need a Wi-Fi connection to record the videos.

5. Smart Integration

Arlo cameras can be integrated with smart home devices like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home kit, IFTTT and even Samsung Smart things. Google Nest is also compatible with Alexa, Google Bode, etc.

6. Weather Resistance

All Nest cameras are weather-resistant with an IP Rating. The Nest Outdoor IQ has an IP66 rating, while other Nest models have an IP65 rating. While Arlo cameras are weather-resistant, not much is known about their IP rating.

Most nest cameras can work in the temperature range of -4 degrees F to 140 degrees F. But the Arlo Ultra and Arlo Pro 3 can match this range. The other models have a lower range of -4 degrees F to 120 Degrees F in general.

7. Battery Life

In case of battery life, Arlo cameras win because they come with rechargeable batteries and even include solar power. But the nest camera only works when plugged into an electric outlet.

Nest cameras come with batteries that last for three to six months on a single charge. You can also connect these cameras to solar power cells.

While Arlo cameras can work even during blackouts, Nest cameras may not. Hence, if you want something that offers uninterrupted video surveillance, Arlo is the best option.

Arlo vs. Nest: Differences

1. Installation

In the case of installation, the Arlo cams win by a close margin. Since the cameras are wireless, you do not need to work a lot. You can easily screw in the magnetic wall mount and install the cameras there.

On the contrary, the Nest cameras are a bit complicated. Nest Outdoor and Outdoor IQ are simple. But, these are wired models and need a [roper place where electric connectivity is possible. Furthermore, you also need to manage the wires properly to prevent any mishaps.

2. Field of View

Arlo definitely has a wider field of view compared to the Google Nest camera. While earlier models like the Arlo Pro come with a 130-degree field of view, the latest models like the Arlo Ultra or Arlo Pro 3 come with 180-degree and 160-degree fields of view, respectively. Hence, all these models are able to capture videos from a wider area. However, most Nest cameras come with a 130-degree field of view, which is less than that of many Arlo models.

In other words, if you are looking for a security camera that can cover a wider range of areas, go for Arlo’s latest versions.

3. Resolution

Arlo Pro offers 1080p resolution, while the Arlo Pro 3 offers 2k resolution, and Arlo Ultra has 4k resolution. On the contrary, the Nest Outdoor and Outdoor IQ offer only 1080p HD resolution.

Hence, Arlo models offer clearer and more vivid pictures and footage even during low light conditions. So, Arlo wins in this sector also.

4. Video Storage Options

Both Arlo and Nest offer storage. Interestingly, Arlo cameras also come with SD card slots where you can insert SD cards and record the video footage.

If you do not want to spend money on a subscription, you need to have live video screenshots on the SD card of the Arlo camera. Some models also offer a backup of a maximum of three hours of video footage on Google Cloud. You can also watch seven videos locally if you have the Arlo Base station. But to get the best benefits, you may need to purchase the Arlo Premier Plan or Elite plan. Google Nest offers free cloud storage for three hours of video footage. But, if you want more backup, you need to purchase Nest Aware (30 days of video recording) and Next Aware Plus (60 days of video storage).

5. Price

In the case of Price, the Google Nest is cheaper than Arlo cameras. While the Arlo first-generation spotlight camera may cost less, the latest models, like the Arlo Ultra Pro, are very expensive.

On the other hand, the Nest cakes are pocket-friendly, and the outdoor cameras are often less expensive than their Arlo counterparts.

In short, if you are looking for something that does the job within a reasonable budget, you can go for Google Nest Cameras. But if you are willing to spend some extra money to get some extra features, Arlo cameras are best for you.

6. Subscription Plans

Both Arlo and Nest offer free storage. But, if you want to store footage for a long period, you need to purchase a premium plan.

Arlo Plans

• Arlo Smart Premier($2.99/month or $9.99/month for multi-camera)- 2k HD video quality, 30 days rolling continuous recording storage alongside smart detection like animal and package delivery, smoke alarm, etc. It also offers push notifications. Emergency 911 calling is available if you have multiple cameras at home.
• Smart Elite($4.99/month or $14.99/month for multi-camera)- 4k HD video, 60 days rolling continuous footage, smart detection including animal, smoke alarm and package detection and Emergency calling for both single and multiple camera accounts.

Nest Plans

• Nest Aware($6/month or $60/year)– 30 days continuous recording at Google cloud
• Nest Aware Plus($12/month or $120/year)-60 days continuous recording stored at Google cloud

Arlo vs Nest: Comparison Table

Best Arlo Security Cameras

1. Arlo Spotlight Camera

Arlo essential spotlight camera is one of the most used indoor cameras for home surveillance. It is known for its wireless facilities, easy-to-install mechanism, and integrated spotlight and motion control sensors.

Features

• It is a 1080p spotlight outdoor camera with color night vision a built-in siren, and works with Wi-Fi.
• The camera also works without any hub and offers great video recording.
• With its removable battery and many other features, this can be a great integration into your home security network.
• Arlo Essential Spotlight camera can also be used as both an outdoor and indoor camera. Besides that, you can also use it as a pet cam, many am, or baby cam.
• The full-color night vision allows you to view the license plates or even faces in full color at night.
• Arlo Essential Spotlight cam offers two-way communication that lets you listen to and reply to visitors.
• This cam is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Apple Home kit, Samsung SmartThings and Google Assistant.
• It has an IP65 rating and can work in any weather without any issues.
  

Pros

• Wireless design makes installation more accessible and more flexible
• Integrated spotlight that activates with motion detection and offers an extra layer of security
• HD quality video with clear and detailed footage
• Water-resistant cameras that work well both indoors and outdoors
• Two-way communication through audio
• Supports smart home integration
  

Cons

• 130-degree field of view, which may not be ideal for more significant properties
• The motion sensitivity mechanism can trigger false alarms sometimes
• Does not offer continuous recording without a subscription
• The premium subscription charge is a bit high
• The cameras are on the expensive side
  

2. Arlo Floodlight Camera

Arlo Pro 3 floodlight camera is an excellent outdoor security camera with strong floodlights. Arlo Pro 3 floodlight is exclusively designed for outdoor areas with high-powered floodlights and advanced camera features. It offers motion detection, illuminated footage even during the night and many other exciting benefits.

Features

• The completely wire-free camera has built-in 2K video with HDR recording.
• The device comes with an anti-theft mount and rechargeable battery.
• The easy-to-install camera does work without a base station and also has integrated lighting.
• The camera also has fast alerts and a true security camera with arming and disarming capabilities.
• It also offers two-way audio communication. A
• Arlo Pro 3 is integrated with Alexa and Google Assistant.
  

Pros

• Integrated floodlights for extra illumination
• High resolution 2K video quality
• Wireless design
• Compatible with Google Assistant, Apple Homekit and Amazon Alexa for smart home integration
• Wider field of view
• Water-resistant
• Offers two-way audio communication
  

Cons

• It is a bit expensive
• You cannot utilize all features except the paid subscription
• Motion sensitivity can often trigger false alarms
• The pan and tilting feature is unavailable and remains fixed in position.
• It is a bit larger and may not be discrete sometimes.

3. Arlo Video doorbell

If you need a good video doorbell to monitor people entering your home, you can go for the Arlo Essential Video doorbell. The Video doorbell is the perfect combination of a doorbell and a security cam, allowing you an extra layer of protection.

Features

• Arlo Essential Video doorbell is rechargeable and wire-free, allowing you to view who is in your front door with its 180-degree viewing angle.
• It supports HD video and offers clear footage even during low-light conditions.
• The video doorbell comes with triggered motion detection and an Arlo foresight mechanism, which allows automated motion-triggered motion recording.
• You can receive a video call from the video doorbell and talk with the person at your gate to communicate effectively.
• It is waterproof and can resist damage due to cold, heat, rain, harsh sunlight, etc effectively.
  

Pros

• Wider viewing angle
• Motion detection and intelligent alerts with intelligent detection of packages, people or animal
• HD video quality
• Two way audio communication
• Offers night vision
• Compatible with all smart home gadgets
• Water resistant design
• Offers quick reply messages in case you cannot answer
  

Cons

• To utilize all the features you need to buy a subscription
• It does not offer any local storage only works with cloud storage
• Does not offer continuous recording
• Sometimes, the notification may appear later
  

Best Nest Security Cameras

1. Google Nest Outdoor Camera

Google Nest Outdoor Cam has two generation models- Gen 1 and Gen 2. It is one of the best outdoor surveillance cameras. It offers many features at an affordable price tag and is designed for intelligent monitoring around your property.

Features

• Google Nest Cam first gen offers round-the-clock video monitoring with excellent features
• A 130-degree viewing angle for proper surveillance.
• It has 1080p day and night recovery, and the night vision illuminates the scene to get better and clearer forage even during low light conditions.
  

Pros

• It is easy to install and works fine without any hub center.
• It is a waterproof camera that works fine even during extreme conditions.
  

Cons

• Subscription needed
  

2. Google Nest Indoor Camera

Features

• The second generation Nest outdoor cam has a built-in intelligent mechanism that can distinguish an animated object like a vehicle, an animal or a human figure and directly send alerts through the Google Home app.
• It is waterproof and can work in weather conditions ranging from -4 degrees F to 140 Degrees F.
• Google Nest 2nd gen outdoor camera has 24*7 1080P video recording with night vision.
• It is battery-operated and works for an hour even if the battery is exhausted or the Wi-Fi connection is lost.
• It is compatible with the Google Home app, Amazon Alexa and other smart TV models.
  

Pros

• HD video quality
• Smart mechanism that detects people and other animals and their motion alongside customization for alerts
• Waterproof model
• Two-way audio communication
• Smart home integration with other state devices
• Easy installation
• Good night vision
• Works for an hour even if the battery is exhausted or Wi-Fi is not active

Cons

• You need to buy a subscription for premium features
• Needs a functional internet connection
  

3. Google Nest Video Doorbell

Google Nest doorbell is available in two versions: wired and battery-operated. It is available in four colors- Ash, Ivy, Linen and Snow. Google Nest doorbell is a modern doorbell compatible with the Nest ecosystem. It has advanced monitoring features that allow you to monitor people at your door. It offers video redoing, instant communication and other exciting features.

Features

• The video doorbell has an intelligent mechanism that automatically detects packages, people, vehicles, or even animals and sends push notifications to your phone.
• It offers round-the-clock HD live video footage and works for one hour even if the Wi-Fi goes down.
• It comes with a built-in battery and works fine with any kind of door.
• It also has two-way audio communication that allows you to communicate with the person in front of the doorbell.
• The night vision is impressive and offers clear footage even during the darkest nights.
• It is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Nest cameras.
  

Pros

• HD-quality video recording
• Two-way audio communication
• Advanced face detection feature
• Supports smart home network and Google Nest ecosystem
• Water and weather-resistant
• Night vision feature

Cons

• It is not ideal for anyone who is selling a wireless doorbell
• The familiar face detection feature is only available with a premium subscription\
  

Arlo vs Nest: Which is Best?

If you check out both brands, both of them have excellent models with wonderful features. While Arlo has great night vision with 2K or 4K video quality and wireless design, it does cost a bit more than Nest. On the other hand, the Nest cameras are easy to install, come in wired and wireless versions, and are lighter in your pocket.

If you want a good quality video with advanced motion detection technology, go for Arlo cameras and video doorbells. On the contrary, if you want a high-resolution camera and better-integrated surveillance network that is less expensive and offers sound performance, go for Nest.

Arlo vs Nest – FAQs

Conclusion

Both Nest and Arlo are great brands for surveillance gadgets. You can get indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells, or even alarms from these brands. Nest uses AI and ML to create advanced motion technology, offering HD or 4k video quality. On the other hand, Nest is a user-friendly, rhombus camera with good night vision and alarm facility. Both are great and offer good service. You need to decide as per your personal preference.