Efuy vs Arlo Doorbell Cameras – Which is Best for Home Security?

 Apart from being a gateway to your house, doors are a crucial barrier against threats. Gone are the days when a knock on the door would raise questions like “Who is it?”. The doors have perfectly synced with modern gadgets to offer a secure way to check the visitors at your doors. Home security brands like Eufy and Arlo offer various devices to improve the safety cover of your doors. The doorbell camera is one such device that has been gaining popularity in recent years.

Doorbell cameras are a perfect blend of peepholes, surveillance cameras, and regular doorbells. They use cameras, microphones, and other components to improve your home’s security. Features like live monitoring, app-based control, etc. have made doorbell cameras a popular product. Brands like Arlo and Eufy are popular for their reliable doorbell cameras. However, choosing between these brands is sometimes confusing for consumers.

To address this confusion, this article will explore various features of the Eufy and Arlo products. By comparing the features of some products, we will simplify this choice: “Eufy vs Arlo”.

An Overview of Eufy Doorbell Cameras

The presence of Eufy in the home security market is relatively new. However, it gets all the valuable experience from its parent company Anker. It was launched to bridge the gap between modern users and smart homes. For this reason, several products from Eufy offer a user-oriented design and features. The home security product range includes devices like video doorbells, smart locks, surveillance cameras, etc.

With the doorbell cameras, Eufy assures the complete safety of the users by eliminating the need to open the door to strangers. These doorbell cameras offer two-way audio and video communication with the visitors. If a user is not at home, the doorbell camera also offers a live video feed of your doorstep. With app-based alerts and notifications, users can keep track of intruders.

Best Eufy Doorbell Cameras

1. eufy Wireless Doorbell Camera

The Eufy Security C120 Video Doorbell Kit is a wireless unit. This doorbell camera records high-quality video in 1080p resolution. All the media is stored in the 4:3 format to ensure more area is captured. The lens uses advanced WDR technology to keep the colors accurate, even in low-lighting conditions. The doorbell camera lowers its power usage to operate for 120 days on a single charge.

Connected with Wi-Fi, this unit can store the record data locally. It offers night vision and motion detection to improve security. Eufy allows users to use the doorbell cameras without an active subscription, ensuring zero compromise with security. Being a compact and slim unit, this doorbell camera easily mounts to a door frame.

Best Features

• Wireless doorbell camera
  
• A maximum video capturing resolution of 1080p
  
• The aspect ratio of 4:3
  
• A battery backup of 120 days
  
• Night vision and motion detection included
  

Pros

• It is suitable for budget-oriented consumers
  
• It uses WDR technology to maintain accuracy in the color of the recorded file
  
• The users can operate this unit without an active subscription plan
  

Cons

• It does not offer colorful night vision
  

2. eufy Wired Doorbell Camera

The Eufy S330 Security Video Doorbell is a wired unit that easily fits your existing electrical circuits. Unlike regular video doorbells, this unit features two cameras. This helps in covering the blind spot around your doorsteps. With a maximum capturing resolution of 2K HDR, you will not miss a single detail. The recorded videos come with a 3-second preview to quickly give you a summary of alerts.

This unit also gets a “free to use” treatment from Eufy, allowing the users to access locally stored video recordings. It also features motion detection and alert sounds to keep unwanted visitors away. The Delivery Guard feature notifies users about the delivery package and keeps an eye on it. Users can control this unit via Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

Best Features

• Wired camera with dual-camera setup
  
• A maximum recording resolution of 2K with HDR
  
• Supports Delivery Guard feature
  
• Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa
  
• Motion detection and sound-triggered recording
  

Pros

• The HDR technology helps in reducing black spots and helps identify the visitor even if against the sun
  
• The dual camera setup helps capture all the necessary details without creating a blind spot
  
• A 3-second preview helps in getting a quick summary of any triggering activity
  

Cons

• This unit is priced higher than the other Eufy products
  

An Overview of Arlo Doorbell Cameras

Arlo experienced a major overhaul in the year 2014, changing its focus towards adopting the latest technologies. Its product range has included innovative features with each update. Due to their reliability, buying Arlo home security products becomes a trustworthy investment. Since the internet plays an important role in this modern age of technology, Arlo products use internet-based features to enhance security.

The Arlo doorbell camera range is tuned to meet the demand of consumers from all types of segments. Even the subscription plans are customized to suit different levels so security is needed by the users. These doorbell cameras have a DIY-friendly design to ensure easy installation at the user’s end. Arlo has also kept closer control over the prices to make its doorbell camera range accessible to the masses.

Best Arlo Doorbell Cameras

1. Arlo Wired Doorbell Camera

The Arlo AVD1001 Essential Wired Video Doorbell can be easily plugged into the regular doorbell wirings, to create a protective cover for your doors. It features a single HDR-enabled camera, capable of capturing videos in HD quality. With a 180-degree field of view, this unit captures more area in detail. To establish communication with a visitor, this unit offers two-way audio features with pre-recorded messages.

In case the doorbell detects suspicious activities, a built-in siren will buzz loudly. Thanks to the WiFi connectivity, this unit can accept commands remotely via the Arlo Security app. To withstand harsh outdoor conditions, the doorbell is fitted inside a weatherproof body. It can also endure temperatures between -20 to 45 degrees Celsius and still work efficiently.

Best Features

• A wired doorbell with HDR support
  
• A maximum wide angle of 180 degrees
  
• A built-in siren and two-way voice support with pre-recorded replies
  
• Compatible with 16 to 24v AC power supply
  
• Weatherproof body supporting operating temperature of -20 to 45 degrees Celsius
  
• App and WiFi connectivity
  

Pros

• It is priced aggressively, compared to its competitors
  
• The users can remotely answer and control this doorbell
  
• Installation of this unit does not interfere with the existing wiring of another doorbell
  

Cons

• It does not have a backup battery and hence needs a continuous power supply
  

2. Arlo Wireless Doorbell Camera

The Arlo AVD2001B Essential Video Doorbell is a wireless unit. It features an HDR-enable camera which records every detail in high definition quality. The camera has an ultra-wide lens cable recording 180 degrees of area. It also gets a built-in motion sensor which automatically records video, after being triggered. It also features two-way audio communication with pre-recorded messages. The users can also receive a video call from the doorbell.

To get 24×7 security, this doorbell camera comes with a night vision feature. To endure harsh outdoor conditions, this unit has a weatherproof body design. Compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and SmartThings helps in the automation of the doorbell. It uses WiFi connectivity to transfer data directly to the Smart Hub.

Best Features

• Wireless doorbell camera with HDR support
  
• A maximum viewing angle of 180 degrees
  
• Two-way audio communication with pre-recorded replies
  
• Compatible with Samsung SmartThings, Google Assistant, and Alexa
  
• WiFi connectivity for data transfer
  
• Weatherproof design to resist water, cold, heat, etc
  

Pros

• It can automatically record video thanks to a sensitive motion sensor
  
• It offers direct video calls to the user
  
• It offers smart alerts by differentiating between humans and vehicles
  

Cons

• It does not have colored night vision
  

Efuy vs Arlo Doorbell Cameras: Features Comparison

Factors To Be Considered

When we compare two popular brands Eufy and Arlo, we need to consider various aspects of their products. The home security products are selected based on their features. These features form a solid foundation for comparison between Eufy and Arlo. In this section, we will discuss how both brands offer certain features on their products. We will then use this comparison to put the Arlo Doorbell camera against the Eufy doorbell camera.

1. Installation

Ease of installation plays a crucial role in the placement of the doorbell cameras. The user should be able to mount these units quickly and accurately. Both brands offer wired and wireless doorbell cameras, which have a different installation process. The wires camera needs to be plugged into your home’s power supply while the wireless unit can be mounted anywhere. Hence, both brands offer a DIY-friendly design on their doorbell cameras. Eufy hence does not offer professional installation services. For Arlo products, a user can book professional installation via third-party services.

2. Equipment And Pricing

While selecting a home security device, the users also pay closer attention to the equipment variety and their pricing. Every user’s needs are different and hence they will buy only a suitable type of device. Both brands offer various equipment options and add-ons to their users. Eufy offers a wired and wireless doorbell range priced between $70 to $180. With add-ons, the price of a doorbell camera goes up to $460. Similarly, Arlo’s doorbell cameras are priced between $80 to $240. If users want to buy the doorbell camera with add-ons, the bundle price goes up to $1300.

3. Video Quality

The doorbell cameras can record or telecast live video from your doorsteps. Hence, video quality should be high enough to differentiate between basic details. Video quality depends on the video capturing resolution which refers to the amount of detail captured by the camera. Higher-resolution videos offer better quality and details can be easily zoomed. The doorbell cameras have a minimum resolution of 720p. Eufy offers a maximum resolution of 2K in its doorbell camera range. Arlo even goes one step ahead, offering a maximum resolution of 4K in the doorbell cameras.

4. Field of View

For doorbell cameras, the field of view is a critical feature that affects their video/image-capturing qualities. With a home security system, users always want to cover the maximum area around their doorsteps. To do so, they will have to use a setup of multiple cameras. If the doorbell camera has a higher field of view, a single unit will be enough to cover more area. Eufy camera offers a maximum FOV of 160 degrees while the Arlo doorbell camera captures with 180 degrees of FOV. Some cameras tend to distort the video quality with a wider field of view. Hence, they often use an image-correction process to reduce distortion and fish-eye effect from the captured video/image.

6. Aspect Ratio

The relationship between the height and width of the doorbell camera is called the aspect ratio. This factor is denoted with two numbers (width and height) and separated by a colon. This factor controls the shape of the recorded media. The most commonly used aspect ratios are 4:3, 1:1, and 16:9, resulting in either a square or rectangle format. For example, the Eufy doorbell cameras have an aspect ratio of 4:3 (a vertical rectangle) or 16:9 (a landscape rectangle). This aspect ratio helps in covering the visitor’s body. Arlo doorbell cameras offer an aspect ratio of 1:1, fitting all the information into a square frame. Arlo also offers 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios on selective models.

5. Motion Detection

Motion detection is a very special feature for the doorbell cameras. This feature uses motion sensors that detect a minor change in the vibrations of nearby surroundings. When this vibration is above the minimum detection limit, the motion sensors set off the alarm. The advantage of motion detection is that, unlike cameras, this feature can perfectly work in low-light conditions. Both Eufy and Arlo doorbell cameras offer motion detection features for 20 to 25 ft distance. The sensitivity of the motion sensor on Eufy products can be changed according to your preference. Motion sensors on Arlo doorbell cameras have a fixed sensitivity.

6. Night Vision

As a doorbell camera is expected to work even in low light or night conditions, night vision becomes a critical factor. By using the night vision sensors, the doorbell camera can detect lower levels of light. This is turned into readable graphical data which is later dilated as a video or image. Night vision is an important feature for doorbells as it helps in differentiating between a visitor and an intruder. Both Arlo and Eufy doorbell cames have colored night vision features. Eufy units can detect night vision up to 5 to 10 ft distance. The range of night detection goes up to 20 ft for Arlo doorbell cameras.

7. Data Storage Options

The doorbell camera offers a recording function for both video and audio. Hence, dedicated storage for these recorded files must be available. There are two types of storage for doorbell cameras: built-in and cloud. The built-in storage options include SD cards or USB drives. Users can change the storage capacity for the doorbell camera by changing the SD card or USB drive. On the other hand, the data can be directly uploaded to a cloud storage server. Both Arlo and Eufy offer dual storage options on selective models. The cloud-based storage is included in the subscription fees.

8. Audio

For uninterrupted communication, audio is crucial for the doorbell cameras. A good audio performance allows the user to hear the voice of the visitor and also helps in sending audio messages to the visitor. For this purpose, the doorbell camera comes with a built-in microphone with noise-cancellation features. These units also come with sirens and speakers, to alarm the users of unwanted activity around the house. Both Eufy and Arlo doorbell cameras have audio functionality which can be accessed via the dedicated apps.

9. Monitoring And Subscription Plans

Home security brands like Arlo and Eufy offer multiple subscription plans to their users, which include monitoring plans. These plans include several features which can be useful for improving the performance of doorbell cameras. Users can access live feeds, get customized alerts, set up motion detection zones, get cloud storage, and many other features. Professional and self-monitoring plans are also included in this subscription plan. Eufy’s subscription plan is priced between $5 to $10 per month whereas the $10 plan includes professional monitoring. Arlo’s subscription plans are priced between $13 to $25 where the $25 plan gets professional monitoring.

10. Smart Home Integration

Smart home integration is a useful feature to enhance the connectivity of the doorbell cameras with modern homes. With this feature, the doorbell camera can be connected to a centralized system or smart hub. This helps in synchronizing the functions of all the connected devices to the smart hub. Users can automate the alert function of doorbell cameras with the lights of your home. Similarly, the camera can be remotely controlled via voice commands. Arlo doorbell camera supports Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, IFTTT, Apple Homekit, etc. integrations. Eufy doorbell camera is compatible with Apple Homekit, SmartThings, Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.

11. Weatherproof Rating and Operating Conditions

The doorbell cameras are mounted on the outdoor side of the doors. They are exposed to various environmental elements like dust, wind, water, UV rays, etc. In the long run, this constant exposure to environmental elements can damage the doorbell camera. To prevent wear and tear of the doorbell camera, their body is weatherproofed. This prevents the entry of water, dust, and other particles into the camera body. Similarly, the lenses are coated with a UV restaurant coat which reflects the harmful UV rays away. Both Arlo and Eufy offer IP-rated and weatherproof units that are capable of enduring -20 to 50 degrees Celsius temperature.

12. Contract Length

To use their devices, some home security brands offer a monthly or annual contract to the users. Under the contract length, the user will have to pay additional charges even if the home security system is not being used. This contract length can vary, depending on the brand and the doorbell camera model. Fortunately, both Eufy and Arlo do not have contracts over the doorbell camera range. Users can buy any equipment and pay the subscription fees every month.

13. Power Source

For basic functionality, the doorbell camera needs a continuous supply of electricity. The doorbell cameras are available in two types of variants: wired and wireless. Hence, the power source for both types of doorbell cameras varies. For the wired doorbell camera, a stationary power source is needed. Using a power cord, the doorbell camera can be connected to the electrical outlets. As a backup plan against power outages, some of the wired doorbell cameras also feature small batteries. For the wireless doorbell camera, the rechargeable batteries work as the power source. These units can operate for 3 to 6 months on a single charge.

14. Connectivity

To establish a connection between the doorbell camera and the user, connectivity technology is crucial. Connectivity technology helps in sharing data like video, alerts, etc directly to the user. Doorbell cameras from Eufy and Arlo are equipped with wired and wireless connectivity technology. The Ethernet wires are used on selective models to connect them to a centralized hub. Wireless technologies like cellular connection and WiFi are popularly used for their flexibility. WiFi is an ideal choice if the doorbell camera is connected to the same network along with other devices. In case WiFi is not available, cellular connection is used in network-rich areas.

Comparison Table: Efuy vs Arlo Doorbell Cameras

Which Is Best: Eufy or Arlo Doorbell Cameras?

To decide the best doorbell camera brand, we must understand our needs. Both Eufy and Arlo serve certain applications via their doorbell cameras. Arlo offers a better quality of video recording compared to Eufy. Eufy on the other hand does not add compulsory subscription plans to use its doorbell camera. The subscription plans are cheaper for Eufy where you can enjoy advanced features.

Arlo units are aggressively priced and give you a wide range of customization to choose from. Installation is easy for both the doorbells but only Arlo offers a third party professional installation option. The advantages for both doorbells are almost equal and hence, the decision will depend on your expectations from these units.

Efuy vs Arlo Doorbell Cameras – FAQs

Conclusion

We now know the importance of a doorbell camera for the safety of our homes. These compact units combine with your home’s door to improve security by a notable margin. You can access live feeds, get alerts, remotely talk with a visitor, and do many other functions with these units. Brands like Eufy and Arlo have been introducing several models of such doorbell cameras. To assist the users in the selection process, this article includes a detailed comparison of features for the doorbell camera. In the future, if a user has to choose between brands like Arlo and Eufy, a discussion of this article will come in handy.