Over the years, I’ve tested lots of&nbsp, safety cameras&nbsp from companies like Blink, Lorex, Ring, Arlo, and more. And no matter what model I’m purchasing, one thing is always going to be the same: A camera with advanced features usually comes with a high price tag. Prices for a single camera can easily exceed$ 200. So the overall cost can quickly go out of hand when you’re trying to put up a system with numerous cameras. &nbsp,

However, the second-generation Arlo Essential 2K cam unexpectedly manages to stand out from the competition, and I suggest using it as a low-cost security option for those who have a tight budget. It’s currently only$ 50 on Amazon ahead of Prime Day, which means a 50 % discount. That’s a very reasonable price for a camera that has many of the same characteristics as Arlo’s premium versions. The two-pack is currently discounted by 58 %, bringing the price from its usual$ 180 price tag, if you’re looking to purchase more than one security camera.

What I like most about the Arlo surveillance camera is that it is so good.

I found that the indoor-outdoor cellular camera’s indoor-outdoor performance was good when I tested the Arlo Essential 2K Cam. The 2K decision allows for extensive detail gathering, is extremely weatherproof, and Arlo’s software excels at walkthroughs on how to use and set up the cam. Two-way sound, color evening vision, and a built-in alarm are another common features.

Arlo has not yet completed. The integrated spotlight on the camera did a fantastic job of lighting up my backyard, and it also works well with IFTTT and Alexa and Google Home ( no Apple HomeKit support at the moment, but it’s a possibility ) if you prefer other smart home platforms. These are CNET’s top recommendations for the best home security systems.

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In the home security discussion, Arlo wins at flexibility.

The Arlo Essential does a lot of what I liked, but it’s still reasonably priced and not all that different from what many different security devices do. I really enjoy Arlo’s user interface and smart home integration, with an application that is simple to understand and opens for quick inspection when you’re out on the town ( and doesn’t even need a license ). The more in-depth flexibility options are what really struck me.

The higher-tier membership ‘ beta-version practice detection options, as well as facial and automobile recognition, will appeal to those who like to experiment with their home security setup. Custom settings like this have never been seen before on other surveillance cameras. In my testing, I was able to “teach” the rod AI when particular objects were no longer current or when a dog toys appeared on the lens.

I could use this feature to detect when a significant object ( like a piece of art ) vanished or when the car door opened. The car detection options also allow you to determine whether a particular vehicle is approaching your home. For those who truly want to drive their house security to the limits, I’ve never seen anything else like this.

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Arlo cam for yourself or another

The Essential camcorder is a great choice even if you or your home haven’t tried a surveillance camera before thanks to Arlo’s simple and helpful installation procedure. Arlo is a great experience as long as a person is comfy trying out a new game and following the instructions. Another of my favorite lens software, I rate the software and its user-friendliness around Blink’s levels. &nbsp,

The camera is also dynamic, making it impossible for people to worry about them not using it in a place where it is both indoors and out. If you want to avoid having to manually charge the battery as much as you can, you could also invest a little more to switch the camera with an extended device and a solar panel. Although it still requires a Wi-Fi connection, this combo is great for remote locations like the ones above my garage door or a great place on my roof eaves.

Keep in mind that Arlo locks a number of crucial features into its$ 8-plus monthly subscription, including smart alerts with object recognition and cloud video storage, if you’re thinking about giving this camera as a gift. There is also a powerful incentive to compensate, even though the camera can be used without fees. &nbsp,

Arlo does provide a free demo of its services, but it might feel like a bait-and-switch to gift consumers who aren’t expecting a security cameras. To support at least several weeks of a subscriber, you might want to include some PayPal or Venmo cash if you want to give the microphone as a present. &nbsp,

Test out our complete list of the best home security devices of 2025 if you’re looking for other options.