In case you are using cameras such as Arlo and Arlo Pro, you will require an internet connection and a good base station. It will give you complete control over your smart cameras. The cameras connect to the base station through WiFi, and the Base station can connect to the router. But the question is, which Base station will be best suited. After having Arlo and Arlo Pro Base station reviewed and tested, we have come up with a small guide to help you out. This is a side by side comparison between Arlo & Arlo Pro base station will help decide which one will fit your home.
Works with Alexa for voice control (Alexa device sold separately); Audio not supported; Night vision cameras work even in the dark
Our Verdict
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As per our testing, Arlo Pro is a clear winner with many more features and versatile nature. Its top-notch specifications, like a smart siren, capability, USB storage, and better technical flexibility, has surpassed the Arlo base station specifications. Nevertheless, there is a slight increase in the Pro one model price, but it is worth it. The added price and its features would definitely aid in providing better security, safety, and convenience to your home.
Arlo Base station supports local storage. It allows you to connect your USB to the station. All your recordings can be stored locally. Apart from this, you can also use your cloud storage as the default. But in case the internet is not available, you will always have local storage as a secondary backup.
Arlo app will notify you in case your device is low on storage. It will automatically overwrite the older recordings to ensure that the new ones get recorded. Arlo Base station doesn’t support local storage.
2. Siren
Arlo Pro base station comes with a siren. It is a 100 plus decibel siren. It can be controlled through the app or get triggered by motion as well as audio. Now, this is a great advantage as you will be immediately notified of any suspicious activity taking place. Arlo Base station doesn’t have this functionality.
3. Processor And Memory
Arlo Pro station has a superior processor as compared to Arlo Base station. This indicates that the camera base will function at a higher speed. The performance of the base station will also be more optimized.
4. Size And Weight
There is a significant difference in the size and weight of each device. The Arlo base station is compact and has a better appearance than the Arlo Base station. However, it weighs more than the Arlo Base station. But the compact design makes up for this drawback.
When it comes to compatibility, both the products are compatible with all the Arlo wire-free cameras. This way, the Arlo Pro cameras can be synced with your existing base station. Just in case you wish to extend your security, you can opt for Arlo Pro add on cameras.
Arlo base station is compatible with Arlo wire-free HD security cameras. You can live stream or record the videos on your computer, smartphone, or tablet using the app. In case you are using Night vision cameras, you will be able to get HD clarity even in the dark. Items in the box- Covers Base station only. The accessories, as well as the cameras, are sold separately.
Arlo Pro base station enables the operation on Arlo, Pro, Pro 2 cameras. It can securely connect the cameras to the internet. Besides, local video back up is also possible by simply connecting a USB device to the post. The device comes with a smart siren that can be controlled remotely. Arlo Pro base station is compatible with Arlo, Pro, and Pro 2 cameras. The resolution it provides is 720p.
It ensures long-range connectivity as well as excellent battery life for the cameras. Items in the box- Base station, Power adapter, Ethernet Cable, Quick Start Guide, Arlo logo Decal.
FAQs
1. Can Arlo Pro cameras be used with Arlo Base station?
As mentioned previously, yes. The Arlo Base station can be used with the Pro cameras. You can simply purchase the Arlo Pro cameras and sync them with your existing Base station.
2. Is it worth upgrading to Arlo Pro Base station?
Absolutely. You can purchase the Arlo Pro Base station separately. The compatibility is not an issue and you will be able to enjoy all the benefits Arlo Pro has to offer. Your cameras will work well with the station without any hassle.
3. Is it possible to switch from Arlo to Arlo Pro Base station?
In case you wish to replace your current base station with the Arlo Pro base station model, you will need to complete the setup process. You will have to remove the old base station from your account. All the synced cameras will get disconnected. In short, all the settings linked to your previous cameras will be erased.Once you have erased the old setup, the new Pro base station can be installed. This can be paired with all your cameras. We found the process to be quite easy actually.
4. What does the Arlo Pro base station do?
The primary function of Arlo Pro base station is to connect Arlo and Arlo Pro cameras to the internet via the router. So basically it provides long-range connectivity and increases the battery life of your cameras. Apart from this, it has features such as local backup, smart siren and upgrade options.
5. Can you have two Arlo base stations?
In case you are using two base stations on two separate accounts, you can use settings to grant access. This way you can view all the cameras through a single login.
6. How many cameras can Arlo Base station support?
To start the sixth camera, one of the active streams must be paused. In case you have an Elite plan with multiple base stations, then you can stream 5 cameras from individual base stations. So theoretically that is a maximum of 15 cameras.
7. Is it necessary for the base station to be connected to the router?
Instead of connecting the base station directly to the route, you can have it connected to an ethernet port on a wifi range extender. This way you can have your Arlo Q kept farther away from the router.
Bottom Line
Is it worth spending more on Arlo Base station? Yes, it is. It has many features such as a smart siren, USB storage and advanced technical specifications. The added features ensure safety and convenience. So we can say with confidence that the Arlo Pro base station is without a doubt, the best choice.
Jacob is our writer who is behind all the technical specifications detailing. He is passionate to evaluate the features and technology evolved in each and every product. It's his research and writing that tells you the how good or bad are the specifications and technical aspects. All the technical product reviews are written by him after weeks-long research, trial, and testing.
