Arlo cameras have carved out a significant niche in the home security landscape. Praised for their high-quality video and user-friendly nature, these devices are a popular choice among homeowners. However, it’s crucial to recognize that no product is without its drawbacks. In this post, we’ll explore some of the limitations of Arlo cameras, providing a balanced perspective for potential buyers.
- Dependency on Internet Connectivity
Arlo cameras rely heavily on a stable internet connection. This can be a major drawback. In areas with spotty Wi-Fi or during power outages, these cameras can lose functionality. This dependency means your home could be vulnerable during internet downtimes.
- Limited Battery Life
Arlo’s wireless models are battery-powered. While this allows for flexible placement, it also means regular battery replacements or recharging. The frequency of this maintenance can increase with higher usage, particularly in areas with more motion activity.
- Subscription Costs
To unlock the full potential of Arlo cameras, including cloud storage for video recordings, you need to subscribe to their service plan. This recurring cost can add up over time, making Arlo a more expensive option compared to systems with no or lower subscription fees.
- Limited Field of View
Some Arlo camera models have a relatively narrow field of view compared to competitors. This can mean needing more cameras to cover the same area, increasing overall costs and complexity.
- Potential Delays in Motion Detection
Users have reported occasional delays in motion detection and alerts. This lag can be a concern, particularly for security purposes where every second counts.
- Privacy Concerns
As with any internet-connected device, there’s a risk of hacking. Despite Arlo’s strong security measures, the inherent nature of IoT devices means they can be more vulnerable to privacy breaches than non-connected security systems.
- Temperature Sensitivity
Arlo cameras, especially outdoor models, can be sensitive to extreme temperatures. In very cold or hot climates, this can affect performance or even damage the device.
- No Continuous Recording
Most Arlo cameras do not support continuous video recording (CVR) without a subscription plan. For those who prefer round-the-clock recording, this can be a limiting factor.
Final Reflections: Weighing the Pros and Cons
In summarizing, while Arlo cameras offer many benefits, they’re not free from limitations. Factors like internet dependency, battery life, additional costs, and others mentioned above are important to consider. For some, these drawbacks might be minor inconveniences; for others, they could be deal-breakers. It’s essential for potential users to weigh these aspects against their specific needs and circumstances. Remember, the best security system is one that aligns seamlessly with your lifestyle and security requirements.