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Over three years ago, I reviewed the excellent Arlo Essential Video Doorbell. It differentiated itself from other popular video doorbells with a camera that recorded at 1536×1536 resolution with a 180-degree diagonal field of view, allowing it to see head to toe with a single camera.
Arlo has finally launched a new doorbell, which was announced with the other 2nd-generation Arlo Essential cameras.
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Specification
| Feature | Specification |
| Resolution | 2K (1944 x 1944) |
| Field of View | 180° |
| Battery Life | 4-6 Months |
| Built-in Siren | ✓ |
| Two-Way Audio | ✓ |
| Light | ✓ |
| Night Vision | Black & White |
| Smart Home Compatibility | SmartThings, Alexa, Google, IFTTT |
| Wire Connectivity | Wireless |
| HDR | ✓ |
| Microphone | Single |
| Noise Reduction & Echo Cancellation | ✓ |
| Removable Battery | ✓ |
| Battery Charging Time (h) | 4 |
| Live View | ✓ |
| Privacy Shield | ✓ |
| SmartHub Required | Optional |
| IP Certification | IP65 |
| Suitable for Installation Behind Glass | ✓ |
| Advanced AI Detection & Cloud Storage | Up to 60 days with Arris Secure subscription |
Differences between Arlo Wireless Video Doorbell 2nd Generation vs Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free
There has not been a huge upgrade between generations:
- Arlo Video Doorbell HD and 2K (2nd Generation)
- Maximum Video Resolution: 1080p and 2K
- Power: Integrated rechargeable battery with optional hardwiring to exisiting doorbell wiring
- Connection: Direct to Wi-Fi
- Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free
- Maximum Video Resolution: 1536 x 1536
- Power: Integrated rechargeable battery with optional hardwiring to existing doorbell wiring
- Connection: Direct to Wi-Fi or connect to an Arlo SmartHub or Arlo Base Station
Unboxing & Installation
The Arlo Wireless Video Doorbell 2K comes with:
- The doorbell unit itself
- USB charging cable
- Wire extension kit
- Angled and flat mounting plates
- Security latch release pin
- Screw kit
- Quick start guide
- Free Arlo Secure trial
Installing the doorbell is a straightforward process. You can use either the angled or flat mounting plate, depending on your entrance area. Arlo provides a handy screw kit and wire extension kit for easy installation. The quick start guide walks you through the setup process step-by-step.
To avoid having to screw more holes into my wall, I have now started reviewing video doorbells with the doorbell stuck to the glass of my front door. It works perfectly fine like this, but securely fixing it with screws would be better.
Arlo App & Features
The Arlo app is user-friendly and packed with useful features. You can view the doorbell’s live feed, adjust settings, manage notifications, and access cloud recordings (with an Arlo Secure subscription).
The app allows you to customise motion detection zones and sensitivity to reduce false alerts. You can also set up smart notifications that differentiate between people, vehicles, animals, and packages.
Other handy features include quick replies, silent mode, and the ability to adjust video quality to optimise battery life. The app also supports integration with smart home platforms like SmartThings, Alexa, and Google Assistant for extended functionality.
Motion Detection & Notifications
The Arlo Wireless Video Doorbell 2K offers reliable motion detection thanks to its advanced PIR sensor and customisable motion zones. You can fine-tune the sensitivity and select specific areas you want the camera to monitor for motion.
By default, the doorbell will send a push notification to your phone whenever motion is detected. The Arlo app allows you to customise the types of notifications you receive. For example, you can choose to only be notified when a person is detected or when your doorbell is pressed.
With an Arlo Secure subscription, you get access to advanced object detection that can distinguish between people, vehicles, animals, and packages. This helps to further reduce unwanted alerts.
During my testing, I found that the motion and doorbell notifications came through with minimal delay.
While I think the people detection and notifications are one of the stronger points of this Arlo doorbell, other brands have superior features. Both Eufy and Aqara have facial recognition with some of their doorbells.
Day Time Footage
The Arlo Wireless Video Doorbell 2K delivers impressive daytime video quality thanks to its 2K HDR camera. The footage is sharp and detailed, with vibrant colours and good contrast. The 180-degree field of view ensures you can see a wide area in front of your door, from head to toe.
The camera handles changes in lighting conditions well, quickly adjusting exposure to maintain a clear image. Even in bright sunlight, the video remains clear without overexposure or washed-out areas.
Two-way audio on the doorbell is loud and clear. Voices come through crisply on both ends, allowing you to easily converse with visitors at your door.
Night Time Footage
At night, the Arlo Wireless Video Doorbell 2K switches to black and white night vision. The built-in infrared LEDs provide even illumination, allowing the camera to capture clear video footage in low light conditions.
While the lack of colour night vision is a bit disappointing, the monochrome video is still of good quality. Details remain visible, and faces are recognisable at close range.
The doorbell light can be set to turn on when motion is detected at night, providing additional lighting for the camera and your entrance area. This is a useful feature for added security and convenience.
The night time performance isn’t quite as good as competing options but it is still perfectly good for my needs.
Battery Life
Arlo claims the Wireless Video Doorbell 2K can last 4-6 months on a single charge. Real-world battery life will depend on factors like your usage, settings, and the amount of activity the doorbell records.
With average use, you can expect the battery to last around 2-3 months before needing a recharge. Arlo’s app provides battery level alerts, so you’ll know when it’s time to charge up.
Recharging the battery is quick and easy. Simply release the doorbell from its mount using the included security latch release pin, then plug it in using the provided USB cable. A full charge takes about 3.5 hours.
For even more convenience, you can hardwire the doorbell to your existing doorbell wiring for continuous charging. This eliminates the need to manually recharge the battery.
Price and Alternative Options
The Arlo 2K Wireless Video Doorbell has an RRP of £140, and you can get it with a chime for £170.
At the time of writing, it was available on Amazon for just £100.
The Eufy Video Doorbell S210 has an RRP of £150 but was available for £110 and comes with a chime.
The Eufy Security Video Doorbell E340 with dual cameras has an RRP of £160 and was available for £116 but lacked a chime.
Ring has:
- Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) – £100 RRP – £60 discounted
- Battery Video Doorbell Plus- £130 RRP – £100 discounted
- Ring Battery Video Doorbell Pro- £200 RRP – £170 discounted
Overall
The Arlo Wireless Video Doorbell 2K is a solid upgrade over the previous Arlo Essential Video Doorbell. The higher 2K (1944×1944) resolution provides noticeably better image quality and more detail.
With only a £5 difference in price between the new 2K model and the older version, the 2nd gen doorbell is an easy choice if you’re looking to buy an Arlo doorbell.
At £100, the Arlo Wireless Video Doorbell 2K is competitively priced, though it faces strong competition from brands like Eufy, Ring, Tapo, Botslab, Aqara and Ezviz.
One thing to keep in mind with Arlo is the ongoing cost of the monthly subscription. Arlo Secure starts at £4.59/month for a single camera, £10.99/month for 4 cameras, or £14.99/month for unlimited cameras. The subscription includes 60 days of cloud recording and 4K resolution support.
The Arlo Wireless Video Doorbell 2K is a great choice if you already have Arlo cameras or plan to build out your smart home security with more Arlo devices. The integration with the Arlo ecosystem and app is seamless.
However, if this is a standalone purchase, the subscription cost for a single camera is relatively high. In that case, brands like Eufy that offer local storage without ongoing fees may provide better value.
Arlo Wireless Video Doorbell 2K Review 2nd Generation
Summary
The Arlo Wireless Video Doorbell 2K is an excellent video doorbell that delivers high-quality video, reliable performance, and useful features. It’s a strong option for Arlo users or those heavily invested in the Arlo ecosystem. For those seeking a subscription-free alternative for a single doorbell, other brands may be a better fit.
Overall
80%-
Overall - 80%80%
Pros
- Competitive upfront price
- Good video performance with head to toe field of view
- Responsive notifications
Cons
- Monthly subscription fee
- Not as feature-rich as other (more expensive) video doorbells
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
