Esta câmera sem fio prega o básico e não quebra o banco

I’ve tested dozens of security cameras over the years from brands like Blink, Lorex, Ring, and Arlo. No matter which model I’m looking at, one thing remains constant: a camera with premium features typically comes with a hefty price tag. Prices for just a single camera can easily run $200 or more. So when you’re trying to build a multi-camera system, the total cost can quickly spiral out of control.

What I like about the Arlo security camera

While testing the Arlo Essential 2K camera, I found the indoor/outdoor wireless camera performs well. The 2K resolution helps capture plenty of detail, it’s highly weather-resistant, and the Arlo app excels at providing step-by-step instructions on how to set up and use the camera. Other common features include two-way audio, color night vision, and a built-in siren.

Arlo isn’t finished yet. CAM’s built-in floodlights did a great job of lighting up my backyard—and if you prefer other smart home platforms, it plays well with Alexa and Google Home, as well as IFTTT (no Apple HomeKit support at the moment, but it’s a possibility). For more, here are CNET’s picks for the best home security systems.

Hey, did you know? CNET’s articles are free, easy, and save you money.

Arlo wins personalization in the home security conversation

I really liked what the Arlo Essential does, but it’s not much different from what many other security cameras do—it’s just surprisingly affordable. I really like Arlo’s user interface and smart home integration, with an easy-to-understand app that’s easy to open for a quick look at your home when you’re in town (and it doesn’t even require a subscription). It’s the deeper customization features that really impressed me.

Those who like to tinker with their home security setup will love the beta’s custom detection options that come with higher-tier subscriptions, as well as facial and vehicle recognition. I haven’t seen custom settings like this on any other security camera before. In my tests, I was able to “teach” the CAM AI to recognize when a pet toy appeared on camera or when certain objects were no longer present.

I could also use this feature to tell me when the garage door has opened or if something valuable (say, a piece of art) has gone missing. Similarly, vehicle detection options can tell me if a specific vehicle is approaching your home. I’ve never seen anything like this for those who really want to push their home security to the limit.

 

 

Arlo cames to you or others

With Arlo’s easy and informative setup process, the Essential Camera is a great option even if you or your family haven’t tried a security camera before. As long as you’re comfortable trying a new app and following the instructions, Arlo is a great experience. I rated the app and ease of use about the same as Blink, another of my favorite camera apps.

With indoor/outdoor placement, the camera is also versatile, so you don’t have to worry about people not finding a place to use it. You can also spend a little more to upgrade the camera with an extended battery and a solar panel, an effective combination if you want to avoid manually charging the battery as much as possible. It still requires a Wi-Fi connection, but this combination is great for out-of-the-way spots, like above my garage door or a high point on the eaves.

If you’re considering this essential Arlo camera as a gift, keep in mind its $8+ monthly subscription, which includes smart alerts with object recognition and cloud video storage. So, while the camera is usable free of charge, there’s a strong incentive to pay.

Arlo offers a free trial of its services, but this can feel like a bait-and-switch to recipients who aren’t expecting a security camera. If you want to give the camera as a gift, you might want to add some PayPal or Venmo funds to cover at least several months of the subscription.

If you’re looking for other options, check out our full list of the best home security cameras of 2025.