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Motion Detection
All the recent Arlo cameras have the same motion features, this is largely because the advanced features are walled off within the subscription features.
Each camera can have motion zones set up, but then under the global settings and under smart alerts, you have motion alerts for different objects, including people, animals, and cars. You also have the option to set up package detection.
I have been more than happy with the quality of motion detection and alert speed from all my Arlo products. I only have people detection enabled, and the location of the camera gives me a pre-warning of someone coming to my front door.
As far as I can tell, there are no false alerts (you will need general motion toggled off), and there don’t seem to be any missed events.
With things like Ring doorbells, I have sometimes had issues with slow notifications, I am fairly sure this is a WiFi problem. The Arlo is located across the garden from my front room, where I have an access point. It is connected to a dedicated 2.4Ghz SSID, and it shows the WiFi signal as excellent.
Footage
The Arlo Essential Spotlight records the same quality of footage as the XL. It is only 1080P, whereas 2K and 4K are becoming the norm for newer cameras. However, considering these are both currently priced at under £100, I’d regard the quality of the footage to be excellent.
Price Comparison and Alternatives
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arlo Essential Security Camera Outdoor, 1080p, Wireless... | £98.34 | Buy on Amazon | |
| Arlo Essential XL Security Camera Outdoor, 1080p HD,... |
£137.90 | Buy on Amazon |
The Arlo Essential Spotlight has an RRP of £129.99, while the XL has an RRP of £149.99.
At the time of writing, they are considerably cheaper on Amazon, priced at £79.99 and £99.99, respectively, which makes them both a good buy.
With Arlo, you need to factor in the running costs. Arlo Secure is £2.79 per camera per month or £8.99 for unlimited cameras. I’d happily pay this, but it’s something you need to consider when you have Eufy and Reolink with no subscription options.
Eufy has the SoloCam E40 priced at £99, or you could go with the older EufyCam 2C with two cameras and a home base for £150 (lower resolution, though).
Overall
My conclusion hasn’t really changed from the Arlo Essential XL review.
The underlying Arlo Essential camera is excellent. Both cameras have had significant discounts since I reviewed the XL in November, and £80 or £100 for them is a bargain.
The Arlo Essential is technically more appealing than it was when I reviewed the XL. At RRP, the difference in price is just 15%, but at the current discounted price, it is 25%.
As I am terrible for procrastinating and generally neglecting things, I will gladly pay a little extra for a product if it means less work on my part. While I am happy with the battery life of the standard Arlo Essential, I’d still pick the XL any day of the week because I can’t be arsed charging cameras more than I need.
As annoying as monthly subscriptions are, I think Arlo Secure is well-priced, and the excellent performance of the advanced objection helps justify the price.
Arlo Essential Spotlight Outdoor Security Camera Review Rating
Summary
Both the Arlo Essential cameras are excellent. They offer a superb balance of affordability and performance. I’d personally spend the extra on the XL for double the battery life, but the standard camera can still get several months of battery, depending on location and settings.
Overall
85%-
Overall - 85%85%
Pros
- Well-priced (especially when discounted)
- Excellent performance for the price
- Good battery
Cons
- On going subscription costs
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
