This Wireless Cam Nails the Basics and Doesn’t Break the Bank

I’ve tested dozens of security cameras over the years from brands like Blink, Lorex, Ring and Arlo. No matter which model I’m looking at, one thing always holds constant: A camera with premium features is typically going to come with a hefty price tag. Prices for just a single camera can easily run $200 or even more. So when you’re trying to put together a system with multiple cameras, the total cost can get out of hand quickly. 

What I like about the Arlo security camera

While testing the Arlo Essential 2K Cam, I found the indoor-outdoor wireless camera performs well. The 2K resolution helps gather plenty of details, it’s highly weather resistant and Arlo’s app excels at walkthroughs on how to set up and use the cam. Other common features include two-way audio, color night vision and a built-in siren.

Arlo isn’t done yet. The cam’s integrated spotlight did a great job of lighting up my backyard — and if you prefer other smart home platforms, it plays well with Alexa and Google Home, as well as IFTTT (no Apple HomeKit support at this time but it’s a possibility). For more, here are CNET’s picks for the best home security systems.

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Arlo wins at customization in the home security conversation

I liked a lot of what the Arlo Essential does but it’s not too different from what many other security cameras do — just surprisingly affordable. I really like Arlo’s UI and smart home integration too, with an app that’s easy to understand and pops open for a quick look at your home when you’re out on the town (and that doesn’t even require a subscription). It’s the deeper customization features that really impressed me.

Those who like to tinker with their home security setup will love the beta-version custom detection options that come with higher-tier subscriptions, in addition to facial and vehicle recognition. I haven’t seen custom setups like this on any other security camera before. In my tests, I was able to “teach” the cam AI to recognize when a pet toy appeared on camera or when certain objects were no longer present.

I could also use this feature to tell me when the garage door opened or if something valuable (say, a piece of artwork) disappeared. Likewise, the vehicle detection options can tell if a specific vehicle is pulling up to your home. I’ve never seen anything else like this for those who really want to push their home security to the limits.

Arlo cams for yourself or others

With Arlo’s easy and informative setup process, the Essential camera is a great choice even if you or your family haven’t tried a security camera before. As long as a user is comfortable trying out a new app and following the instructions, Arlo is an excellent experience. I rate the app and user-friendliness around Blink’s level, another one of my favorite camera apps. 

With indoor/outdoor placement, the camera is also versatile so you don’t have to worry about people not finding a place to use it. You could also spend a bit more to upgrade the camera with an extended battery and a solar panel, an effective combo if you want to avoid manually charging the battery as much as possible. It still needs a Wi-Fi connection but this combo is great for out-of-the-way spots like above my garage door or a high point on roof eaves.

If you’re thinking about getting this Arlo Essential camera as a gift, keep in mind Arlo locks quite a few important features behind its $8-plus monthly subscription, including smart alerts with object recognition and cloud video storage. So while the camera is usable without fees, there’s a strong incentive to pay. 

Arlo does offer a free trial of its services but that could feel like a bait-and-switch to give recipients who aren’t expecting a security camera. If you want to give the cam as a gift, you may want to add some PayPal or Venmo cash to cover at least several months of a subscription. 

If you’re on the hunt for other options, check out our full list of the best home security cameras of 2025.