Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free – HD Video, 180° View, Night Vision, 2 Way Audio, Direct to Wi-Fi No Hub Needed, Wire Free or Wired, Black – AVD2001B, 1 Count (Pack of 1)
The Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free stands out as a wireless alternative with its sharp HDR video, easy installation, and seamless integration with various smart devices. Priced at $199.99, it competes with the likes of the Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus, providing a battery-powered option for those seeking a wire-free solution.
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Features & Functionality
Image credit: Arlo
The Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free redefines home security with its innovative features and seamless functionality. Boasting a 1,536 by 1,536-pixel resolution and a unique 1:1 aspect ratio, it provides a comprehensive head-to-toe view of visitors, ensuring a broader field of vision compared to conventional doorbell cameras. The integration of High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology enhances image quality, delivering vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and brighter whites for clear footage in varying lighting conditions.
Its wireless design, powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, simplifies installation and offers flexibility in placement. With a 180-degree field of view and 12X digital zoom, the camera covers a wide area around your doorstep while allowing detailed scrutiny when necessary. Seamless integration with smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings enables voice control and expands compatibility with existing smart ecosystems.
For advanced features such as Advanced Object and Package Detection, Intelligent Alerts, and e911 emergency calling, users can access the Arlo Smart subscription. The subscription-based service unlocks the doorbell’s full potential, enhancing security measures and refining control over alerts and notifications. The Arlo mobile app serves as a central hub for managing settings, adjusting video quality, configuring activity zones, and toggling different modes like Home or Away, offering a user-friendly interface for easy customization.
The device seamlessly integrates with the Arlo ecosystem, facilitating cloud-based storage for recorded video footage and interaction with other Arlo devices. However, access to video history and certain advanced features may require a subscription plan. Overall, the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free stands as a versatile and comprehensive home security solution, combining innovative technology with user-friendly functionality for enhanced peace of mind.
Design & Build Quality
The Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free maintains a modern and sleek design. The glossy black face, white side trim, and matte black mounting base contribute to an elegant appearance. The inclusion of a rechargeable battery pack eliminates the need for wiring, enhancing user convenience. Despite being larger than its predecessor, the design accommodates the necessary battery without compromising aesthetics.
The device’s construction includes a round doorbell button, LED status ring, camera, ambient light sensor, microphone, and speaker. The inclusion of a release pin for easy battery installation adds to the user-friendly design. However, the absence of local storage options and Pre-Roll video may be drawbacks for users prioritizing these features.
Power & Performance
Image credit: Arlo
The power and performance of the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free showcase its reliability and efficiency in safeguarding your home. This wireless device, driven by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, delivers exceptional performance without the hassle of intricate wiring. The setup process is streamlined and user-friendly, making it accessible for homeowners seeking a DIY installation experience.
Equipped with a 180-degree field of view and a 12X digital zoom, the camera captures detailed footage and covers a wide expanse around your doorstep. Its HDR technology ensures excellent image quality, rendering vibrant colors and sharp contrasts both during the day and at night with its black-and-white infrared night vision. Motion alerts are prompt and accurate, leveraging Advanced Object Detection to discern between people, animals, and vehicles, providing more nuanced and specific notifications.
The inclusion of a built-in siren adds an extra layer of security, allowing users to activate it via the mobile app in case of suspicious activity. Additionally, the doorbell’s compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings enhances convenience, enabling users to access live feeds or perform specific actions through simple voice commands.
However, accessing certain advanced features and video history might necessitate a subscription to the Arlo Smart plan, which might be considered a drawback for users seeking full access to the device’s capabilities without additional fees. Despite this, the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free excels in its performance by providing reliable security features, impressive video quality, and intuitive controls through its dedicated mobile app, ensuring a robust home monitoring solution.
Compatibility & Connectivity
Image credit: Arlo
The Essential Doorbell supports a wireless connection with a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi radio, eliminating the need for a hub. However, users have the option to integrate it into an existing Arlo Smart Hub system. The device’s compatibility extends to voice control through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, offering users flexibility in their smart home ecosystems.
The inclusion of IFTTT applets expands the device’s connectivity with third-party devices and services. Additionally, integration with the Samsung SmartThings platform enhances its versatility. The Arlo app provides a user-friendly interface for controlling and configuring the doorbell, ensuring seamless compatibility and connectivity.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free?
The Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free emerges as a top choice for users seeking a wireless solution with impressive features. Its sharp HDR video, compatibility with popular smart home platforms, and user-friendly design contribute to its appeal. While the subscription dependency for advanced features may deter some users, the device’s overall performance and convenience make it a strong contender in the video doorbell market.
If you prioritize easy installation, wire-free convenience, and seamless integration with popular smart home platforms, the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free is an excellent choice. However, users looking for local storage options or Pre-Roll video capture might find alternatives more suitable to their preferences. Overall, for homeowners seeking a reliable and feature-rich wireless video doorbell, the Arlo Essential is a top contender.
