Lorex vs Arlo Cameras

Arlo and Lorex are both quality home security systems, and they have many similarities, but they also have key differences. Home security cameras are an important investment for many homeowners and business owners, so you should put utmost consideration into buying a high-quality system that can keep you and your property safe.

But, it is hard to know which is best for your individual circumstances. To help you with this, we will walk you through the similarities and differences to help you decide which best meets your home security needs.

Lorex Vs. Arlo - What do they have in common?

• Cloud Storage: Both Lorex and Arlo offer cloud storage as well as local storage (SD card-based); in fact, there are multiple cloud storage options included with both that will allow you to store as much video content as you want.
• Motion Detection: Both options have quality motion-detecting hardware that can alert you easily in case of any issues.
• Picture Quality: Both Lorex and Arlo cameras are of good quality and are equally suitable for indoor and outdoor cameras. For indoor options, both include a baby monitor feature.
• Night Vision: Offered by both companies, Night vision is a useful feature that can keep your property safe at all hours. Some Arlo cameras even offered color night vision.
• Two-way audio: Both Lorex and Arlo offer two-way audio.
• Professional monitoring: both of these systems are self-monitored, meaning no third-party professional monitoring is offered.
• Weatherproofing: Both companies offer weatherproof camera options.
• No contracts:  Unlike many other traditional security companies, neither require lengthy or expensive contracts in order to provide you with a service, which is a big plus.

 Lorex Vs. Arlo - What are their differences?

• Smart Home Integration: Arlo offers an array of possibilities in terms of integration with smart home devices, such as Apple Homekit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. Lorex isn't really geared for home integration in the same way, really only offering basic features in this area which we will cover in due course.
• Apps: Arlo has better app compatibility with apps that can be used on both iOs and Android, compared to Lorex, which is incompatible with the Apple platform.
• Monitor: Lorex includes a 7-inch monitor that is compatible with Skype, which Arlo doesn't offer.
• Financing options: Lorex offers Amazon pay, Klarna, and Zip financing support while Arlo doesn't.

What you need to know about Lorex

Installation

All Lorex Cameras are designed for DIY installation, with the company promising a simple setup no matter what product you've chosen. Though there are multiple product types with wired, wireless, and Ethernet-powered Lorex camera options, the time and difficulty of installation can vary.

If you're looking for the simplest setup, the wireless options doubtlessly offer this and can be up and running in minutes.

Any camera you purchase will come with a detailed instruction manual and requires tools any keen DIY'ers will have at home already, such as screwdrivers and drills. No matter how your Lorex camera is powered, everything you need will be provided for you.

Home Automation

Lorex does not have a particularly impressive selection when it comes to smart home automation options. It doesn't offer any automation/smart features of its own. Though, it is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Apple TV.

Pricing

Lorex Security Cameras vary in price because of the sheer number of available bundles and models to choose from; Customers can also opt to purchase single cameras or up to 32 cameras in one bundle.

Prices vary from $99 for a single camera to large camera bundles that exceed $9000.

Check out our full Lorex review.

Nerd Pros

• Customizable motion detection: Users can set up customized activity zones to ensure they're not receiving unnecessary alerts from random passersby or vehicles. This feature will let you adjust your motion sensors sensitivity to your requirements.
• Product selection: Whether you're looking to secure a business or family home, there'll be a Lorex camera that meets your needs, encompassing both wired and wire-free options and multiple recording options. There are many choices that will allow you to customize your home security setup.
• No Added Costs: It's very common for security companies to have a subscription plan to unlock premium features such as extra video storage. There are no additional costs with Lorex security cameras. You'll never need to pay extra to fully utilize what your selected product has to offer.
• Video Doorbell: Lorex offers a high quality doorbell camera

Nerd Cons

• Lack of home integration systems: Lorex security cameras offer only basic home automation options, with compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple TV. Other than that, there are no options to integrate further.
• Cost: The cost of a Lorex camera isn't outrageous, but it is notably higher than some competitors due to the fact that there are no subscription plans or monthly costs, making it a larger upfront investment.
• Confusing options: The array of packages to choose from could be confusing as the choice becomes overwhelming. Customer service representatives are helpful, but product choices could be better explained to reduce confusion.

What you need to know about Arlo

Installation

Arlo camera system installation is about as simple as it gets in terms of DIY installation, with Arlo's customers reporting that this is the simplest installation due to its wireless configuration that allows for easy setup over wi-fi.

Arlo's video doorbell is probably the most simple to install product in their range, taking an average of 5 minutes to get up and running.

Though all Arlo products are fairly simple to get started with - It's as simple as plugging in the base station and logging into the user-friendly mobile app to begin.

Smart Home Integration

Arlo provides some automation options; though they're not as great as the options offered by many companies, they do top Lorex.

The company recently announced a "Works With Arlo" program that promises more smart home options as time goes on.

Currently, integrations include Telguard, Wink, Apple Homekit, Alexa, and Google Assistant.

Pricing

Arlo offers an array of pricing options and also offers bulk discounts, so it's a good idea to pre-plan exactly how many cameras you'll be needing before you purchase so you can avail the maximum discount.

Check out our full Arlo Cameras Review

Nerd Pros

• Smart Item Detection: Unlike Lorex, Arlo cameras offer advanced item detection that can differentiate between animals and people, giving you notifications based on what it sees.
• Brilliant video quality: All of Arlo's camera options have HD video quality. The Ultra has 4k resolution, which is something most companies can't offer.
• No contracts: Similarly to Lorex, there are no contracts or subscriptions required, so this is a brilliant feature if you're wary of commitments.

Nerd Cons

• Battery Life: Compared to many competitors, Arlo doesn't have the best battery life.
• Higher Upfront cost: As with Lorex, the trade-off of having no contracts or subscription is a higher upfront cost. That said, the cost is still manageable for many.

Lorex Or Arlo?

Both Lorex and Arlo offer decent home security camera systems without the need to pay a monthly fee. If simplicity, innovation, and color night vision are key for you, Arlo is probably the better bet. However, Lorex is a better choice if you want more freedom to customize your system and more freedom in terms of how you want to finance your system.