Arlo vs ADT Cameras

If you're looking to upgrade your home security, you can't go wrong with purchasing a complete home security system with cameras. Security cameras represent a significant deterrence, and they can provide valuable evidence in the case of an attempted break-in.

Arlo and ADT are two great home security providers; ADT is one of the most reliable security companies with millions of customers across North America; ADT provides professionally installed home security systems with professional monitoring. Arlo is a newer home security camera provider focusing on smart home equipment and DIY security.

ADT vs Arlo: What do they have in common?

• Night vision: Each provider offers high-quality night vision options.
• Weatherproof outdoor cameras: You can purchase weatherproof outdoor security cameras from ADT & Arlo.
• Motion detection: Each option offers motion sensors; the mobile app can receive motion-triggered alerts and notify you via push notification if a threat is detected.
• Video doorbells: A quality video doorbell is a basic way to ensure your home is safe; there are also useful add-ons like two-way talk, which can help you talk to delivery people and act as though you're home, even if you're not.
• Smart home integration: Arlo and ADT offer plenty of home automation options, from doorbell cameras to Z-wave compatibility, allowing you to combine your system with Amazon Alexa and other technology.
• Cloud storage: ADT recently launched cloud storage, and Arlo has always been a cloud-based provider. Cloud storage is a great way to manage your camera footage.
• Moneyback guarantee: Each provider offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

ADT vs Arlo: What are their differences?

• Professional installation: ADT offers professional installation for its security systems.
• Reputation: ADT has decades in the business and millions of customers; their familiar blue logo is reassuring globally. But Arlo is a fairly new home security company.
• Hardware: ADT offers some of the best hardware and equipment in the industry. Arlo offers simple, effective equipment but can't top ADT's professional service and industry-leading position.
• Traditional security equipment: ADT offers a fully-loaded alarm system plus monitoring plans. Unfortunately, Arlo doesn't offer many key parts of a home security system (monitoring service, glass break sensors, window sensors, etc.).
• Operating conditions: ADT cameras can work in more extreme temperatures - as low as -25 degrees celsius, a rare feature against other cameras and security equipment.
• Flexibility: With a self-installed system and no real monitoring fees, Arlo is great for flexibility.
• Professional monitoring: You'll need to opt for professional monitoring if you want an ADT system.

Arlo: What you need to know 

Arlo is a modern home security provider with a focus on self-monitoring smart home security; if you're looking for smart home devices, Arlo is one of the best home security systems for you. Arlo offers simple installation; some products only need 5 minutes to start.

Installation

Arlo's customers report that the DIY installation is easy; it's a simple Wi-Fi configuration that can be done in minutes. Arlo's video doorbells are the simplest product, taking just 5 minutes to get up and running. But all Arlo products are simple; you plug in the base station and set up the simple mobile app to get started.

Equipment

Arlo doesn't offer some of the critical components of a smart home security system, but they do offer a variety of products, including:

• Arlo Ultra indoor/outdoor cameras
• Arlo Pro (2+3)
• Video doorbells
• Baby monitors
• Customizable floodlights

Some Arlo cameras offer 4k resolution, a 180-degree field of view, and cutting-edge dewarping technology.

Home automation

Arlo provides several automation options, plus baby monitors and doorbell cameras. The new "Works With Arlo" promises more smart home options and functionalities as time goes in.

Integrations include Telguard, Wink, Apple Homekit, Alexa, and Google Assistant.

Pricing

Arlo offers an array of pricing options, but you can also access discounts for buying in bulk. You should pre-plan exactly what you need before buying to avail maximum discounts.

Arlo offers doorbell cameras for around $80 and indoor/outdoor cameras that start from $129 for a basic essential camera.

Nerd pros

• Smart item detection: Arlo cameras offer advanced item detection that can differentiate between people and animals, notifying you based on what it sees.
• Brilliant video quality: All of Arlo's camera options have HD video quality, with at least 1080p HD resolution. The Ultra has 4k resolution, which is something most companies can't offer.
• No contracts: Unlike ADT, you'll have a high level of flexibility. You aren't forced to take out a contract.

Nerd cons

• Battery life: Arlo doesn't have the best battery life compared to some competitors, which is a shame since they offer so much battery-powered equipment.
• Higher upfront cost: Since you can't spread the cost, the upfront costs are higher.

ADT: What you need to know

ADT home security offers security services and is a household name. The blue logo is a familiar sight globally. With several monitoring centers in the USA and more than 7 million customers, you know you're in safe hands.

Installation

Unlike Arlo, you'll need professional installation. An ADT executive will come to your home, complete professional installation, and walk you through your new systems functions. The cost of professional installation will be built into the cost of your system. You can't self-install.

Equipment

The basic security system is made up of:

• Keypad
• Window sensors
• Door sensors
• Key fob
• Motion sensors
• Window decals

Regardless, you can purchase extras such as security cameras and:

• Touchpad (with monitoring through cellular service)
• Outdoor camera
• Garage control
• Window sensors
• Smart thermostats
• Automated switches and plugs
• Indoor camera
• Doorbell camera
• Smart door locks
• Light control
• Carbon monoxide and smoke sensors
• Flood detectors
• Glass break sensors

Home automation

ADT offers a basic range of home smart home devices, and like Arlo, you can also use ADT with Z-wave products such as Nest thermostat, smart locks, Amazon's Alexa, smart lights, and Google Assistant.

Pricing 

When you're signing up for your new security system, you'll have several costs to consider:

• Equipment costs: If you purchase an ADT system, the equipment costs are incorporated into the upfront and contract cost.
• Installation costs: Installation starts from $99 and varies depending on your chosen equipment.
• Monthly costs: Monthly costs will range from $35.99 to $57.99 per month.

Nerd pros:

• Reputation: ADT is one of the most significant security companies in the world; you're in safe hands.
• Outage Protection: Homeowners can be assured that ADT offers excellent outage protection.
• Warranty: ADT offers extended warranties.
• Easy installation: You don't worry about the installation; a professional will handle it for you.

 Nerd cons:

• Customer service inconsistencies: ADT has previously been known for great customer service, but customer service has sometimes been outsourced to third parties, which harms the ADT brand when the customer service is inconsistent.
• Add-on extras: The base packages for ADT are affordable, but extras can add up quickly.
• Mobile app issues: Customers have reported losing connectivity or seeing delays with the app from time to time, which can become an annoying issue.

Arlo or ADT?

Arlo and ADT are great providers; if you're looking for flexible you're home products without a high monthly fee, you can consider Arlo. But if you're looking for a more traditional security provider with better hardware and a more comprehensive alarm system, including things like window sensors, you should consider ADT. Arlo is a new provider but seems reliable and forward-thinking so far.