Arlo vs. Ring

Both Ring and Arlo are DIY companies that can provide you with a high level of security without long contracts and intricate installations. But when deciding between Ring and Arlo, it’s important to know your own preferences and security needs. Arlo is best known for its camera options with powerful features including AI detection and crisp night vision.

While Ring is perhaps most well-known for its video doorbell, it does have a broader range of security products than Arlo, including door and window sensors, environmental monitoring and smart home features.

Both companies are solid options, but Ring edges out Arlo due to its wider range of offerings for the average renter or homeowner.

Arlo vs Ring: What do they have in common?

Arlo and Ring are both formidable forces in the DIY security world. Their similarities include:

• Simple setup and installation: You won’t have to worry about hiring anyone to set up your security system with either company. Both provide a hassle-free installation process.
• Indoor/Outdoor options: Both systems offer cameras that can be used indoors and outside.
• Smart Home Integration: Both Ring and Arlo allow third party integration for automation options, including Alexa and Google Assistant.
• Wireless systems: These cameras are wireless, which means you don’t have to worry about drilling holes into the walls for installation. Battery powered cameras also mean you aren’t tethered to an outlet, so camera placement is more versatile. (Check out our picks for the best wireless cameras.)
• No commitment required: Neither company requires you to sign up for any contracts.

Arlo vs Ring: What are the differences?

While both companies offer solid security options with a wide array of offerings, there are some major differences between the two:

• Monitoring options: Arlo currently does not offer any professional monitoring services. Ring doesn’t require professional monitoring, but it is an option for customers who want to have it.
• Home automation: Ring offers full home automation, while Arlo’s options can be somewhat limited.
• Price: Ring is substantially less expensive than Arlo, with a 5-piece security kit coming in under $200.
• Recording options: Ring does not offer free video storage, while Arlo offers 7 days for free. Arlo also offers continuous video recording on select devices, while that option is not available on Ring.

Ring: What you need to know

Ring offers quality security options at a price that isn’t tough on the pocketbook. There are some pros and cons you should know before purchasing.

Nerd Pros

• Price: For under $200, you can get Ring’s starter kit, which includes a base station, contact sensor, motion detector, keypad and range extender. You can also build your system a la carte.
• Easy installation: You won’t need any complicated tools to install this system. Everything you need comes right in the box. The app provides guided instructions, making the whole process a lot easier.
• No long-term contract:  Lots of people choose a DIY security system because they don’t want to get stuck in a contract. With Ring, you won’t have to worry about that issue.

Nerd Cons

• Low-tech control pad: Ring’s keypad could be easier on the eyes and a little more high-tech. If you like the sleek look of touch screen panels, the average push button control pad could be a turnoff.
• No smart thermostat: Ring does not yet offer a smart thermostat.
• Sensor glitches: Some customers report problems with the sensors working properly.
• Separate yard signs and window stickers: Ring requires you to pay for these separately.

Check out our full Ring review.

Arlo: What you need to know

Arlo is a great choice if you’re looking for a high-quality DIY camera system, but there are some cons as well.

Nerd Pros

• Video quality: All of Arlo’s camera options have HD video quality. The Ultra has 4k resolution, which is something most cameras don’t offer. This helped make Arlo one of our top picks for the best security cameras.
• Advanced object detection: Arlo can send you notifications about whether it sees a person, pet or package thanks to advanced AI technology. You can also choose to receive notifications based on what your camera actually sees.
• No contracts: You are not required to sign any contracts at all.

Nerd Cons

• Larger upfront cost: Arlo camera systems can be expensive compared with other DIY camera options. Because there are no contracts, there’s also not an option to pay less monthly.
• No professional monitoring: Although Arlo has released plans for some type of added security system in the latter half of 2019, the company does not currently offer any professional monitoring for customers.
• Mediocre battery life: Compared with competitors, the battery life on Arlo’s cameras could be improved.
• Smart home options are limited: Although there are some home automation options from third parties, Arlo does not have as many automation choices as its competitors.

Check out our full review of Arlo cameras.

Arlo or Ring?

While you can’t go wrong with either company, we chose Ring over Arlo thanks to its wide range of security and smart home offerings. While it’s best known for its video doorbell, Ring will allow you to have a fully automated home complete with door and window sensors, environmental monitoring and light controls. You’ll have an easy setup, and you can even choose to have professional monitoring if that’s something you want.

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There’s no doubt Arlo will still provide you great security, but there is no professional monitoring option at this time and automation options, while offered, are not as robust as Ring’s. Before deciding on Ring vs Arlo it’s important to know your personal security needs and preferences, and choose the option that best fits your home and family.

This article has been reviewed and approved by Officer Banta.

Officer Banta is the official SecurityNerd home security and safety expert. A member of the Biloxi Police Department for over 24 years, Officer Banta reviews all articles before lending his stamp of approval. Click here for more information on Officer Banta and the rest of our team.