Arlo (by Netgear) and Blink (by Amazon) are two of the biggest smart security cameras brands at the moment. So which one to choose?! As part of our research, we dived into each brands offering to understand what sets these two apart. Read on!
While Arlo by Netgear is an old player in the smart home niche, Blink is a newcomer. The company was started in 2016 and is now famous for its affordable security solutions. Well-established already, Arlo is renowned for its feature-packed smart home security devices.
Security systems are the most important home monitoring devices. They are designed to alert you when motion is detected. Essentially, you can monitor what’s going on in your home remotely. In this resource, we’ll peek into the significant differences (and similarities) of the products that each brand has to offer. We’ll contrast and compare their kits, outdoor cameras, indoor cameras and more, so we help you make the right choice.
Outdoor Security Camera Head to Head
Arlo Ultra Security Camera System
Model(s): MS5140-100NAS
The Arlo Ultra has a 4K UHD video resolution that delivers crisp images with a full 180-degree field of view. The camera has an auto-correction feature that minimizes the fisheye effect common in most security cameras.Arlo Ultra also has excellent highly sensitive motion detectors. Moving objects are auto-focused, zoomed, and tracked for real-time monitoring. And the built-in spotlight (and siren) work well to deter intruders.
Blink XT2 Security Camera
Pros
- Wide 180 degree viewing angle.
- Color night vision using invisible infrared LEDs.
- Two-way audio detection with noise and wind cancellation.
Cons
- Requires monthly subscription to unlock all features.
- Some users have reported occasional syncing problems.
Pros
- The battery lasts up to 2 years.
- Ultra-light and easy to set up.
Cons
- Cloud storage could be larger.
- Only records footage for a range of 5 to 60 seconds.
- Requires monthly subscription for cloud storage
Design, Resolution, & Field of View
The Arlo Ultra is an 89 x 52 x 78.4 mm outdoor security camera with a shiny, black exterior. It comes in one, two, three, or four-camera kit systems. Conveniently, the camera is extremely light and weighs just 4 oz.
On the other hand, the Blink XT2 is a 71 x 71 x 34 mm square security camera that comes in one, two, three, or four-camera kit systems. Its weight, however, is almost triple, coming close to 12 oz.
Resolution
Arlo Ultra’s video resolution is a notch higher at 4K UHD compared to the Blink XT2's standard 1080p video resolution. Arlo’s Ultra cameras also have a wider viewing angle of 180 degree compared to Blink’s XT2’s 110 degree viewing angle.
Design and durability
Both of these cameras are weatherproof and can be used indoors or outdoors. They have a weather rating of IP65. And each comes with a one year warranty.
In case you want to install more than five cameras, both Arlo and Blink allow you to purchase an add-on camera. But, you will need to buy a separate module for every add-on camera.
Power, Installation, Storage, & Streaming
Arlo Ultra and Blink XT2 are two of the most straightforward DIY installation security cameras available today. They are both wire-free. You can either place them on a surface or mount them on the wall using the provided mounting hardware. Set up is a breeze, too. You’ll be done in 30 minutes (or less).
Although both options provide free cloud storage for your video recordings, their capacities are quite different. The Blink XT2 only provides cloud storage space of up to 7200 seconds, while Arlo Ultra offers 7 days free storage.
Arlo’s cloud storage can be upgraded to 30 days by purchasing the Arlo Smart Home plan. Arlo Ultra also has an SD card slot (supports up to 32GB SD) that can be purchased separately. The XT2 doesn’t support local storage.
Power
Powered by two non-rechargeable AA lithium batteries, the Blink XT2 has a long battery life of up to two years. The Arlo ultra has a single rechargeable battery. It comes with a magnetic charging cable for easy and convenient charging. On the downside, only one charging cable is provided regardless of the number of cameras you purchase.
Video streaming on both cams is decent. You can stream live on-demand footage straight to your phone or tablet. However, Arlo Ultra cameras take the lead here. Unlike Blink’s XT2, these allow you share and record your live streaming easily from your smartphone app.
Night vision, Motion & Audio Detection
Both cameras have infrared night vision LEDs. This is an essential feature because infrared LEDs are undetectable by the human eye. The only difference is that Arlo Ultra cameras are packed with color night vision, instead of the usual black and white images.
With both the Arlo Ultra and Blink XT2, you can set activity zones. This feature allows your camera to focus on hotspot areas. The camera raises the alarm only when motion is detected inside the activity zones to minimize false alarms.
Once again, Arlo Ultra takes the upper hand with automatic tracking. It zooms in, focuses, and tracks any moving objects detected. On top of that, the cameras are preinstalled with a bright spotlight that lights up when your camera senses movement. A siren can be activated remotely on your app (or preset to sound as soon as motion is detected).
Two-Way Audio
Both outdoor security cameras have two-way audio recording built in. This feature allows you to talk to your visitors (or pets) remotely. But the two-way audio recording in Blink XT2 is almost impossible to use since its maximum video footage range is only 60 seconds. Plus, its push alerts are sent to the app after the recording has been completed.
Smart Integration & Smartphone App
The Blink XT2 works well with Amazon’s Alexa to disarm and arm the system, view motion clips, and to stream live footage. You’ll need to install the Blink Home Monitor app for iOS and Android if you want to monitor the cams using your smartphone.
Arlo Ultra cameras are compatible with both Apple’s HomeKit and Amazon’s Alexa. Plus, you’ll get a year free Arlo Smart Premier Service. The Premier Service gives you access to extra smart control features such as customizable motion alerts and a 30-day cloud recording.
Both smartphone apps have user-friendly interfaces, but the Blink XT2 app has limited control options.
Technical Comparison – Arlo vs Blink
| Arlo Ultra | Blink XT2 | |
| Audio | Dual mic with noise- and wind-cancellation | Built-in mic and speaker |
| LED indicators | Blue and amber | Green for power, Blue for internet/recording, Red for system error/no connection |
| Battery Life | 3 – 6 months depending on usage | 2 years under normal use (about 40, 000 seconds) |
| Weatherproof rating | IP65 | IP65 |
| Dimensions | 89 * 52 * 78.4 mm | 71 * 71 * 34 mm |
| Operating temperature | -20 to 60 degree Celsius | -20 to 45 degrees Celsius |
| Weight | 4 oz. | 11.6757 oz. |
| Field of View | 180 degrees | 110 degrees |
| Illuminator | 850 nm Infrared LEDs | 850 nm Infrared LEDs |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
| Spotlight | 42Lux @1M, 6500K | None |
| Video modes | 4k, 1080p, 720p | Up to 1080p |
| Radio | Dual-band 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi Arlo ultra 2 | 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi 900MHZ Blink Protocol |
The Verdict
Arlo Ultra Security Camera System
Model(s): MS5140-100NAS
The Arlo Ultra has a 4K UHD video resolution that delivers crisp images with a full 180-degree field of view. The camera has an auto-correction feature that minimizes the fisheye effect common in most security cameras.Arlo Ultra also has excellent highly sensitive motion detectors. Moving objects are auto-focused, zoomed, and tracked for real-time monitoring. And the built-in spotlight (and siren) work well to deter intruders.
Blink XT2 Security Camera
Kits Head to Head
Arlo Smart Home Security Kit
Blink Indoor Home Security Camera System
Push notifications are instantly sent to your phone app when movement is sensed. The Blink’s Protection Kit is easy to install. And it can be controlled either via Alexa or through the Smartphone app.
Pros
- Weatherproof doorbell.
- Two-way audio communication.
- Instant alerts when the doorbell is pressed.
Cons
- Motion sensitivity could have been adjustable.
- Voice calls can only be initiated from the gate and not vice versa.
Pros
- The battery lasts for up to two years.
- Live view streaming mode for real-time surveillance.
- Quick alerts when motion is detected.
Cons
- Night vision could be better.
- No continuous recording option.
Design, Resolution & Field of View
Blink’s home security and monitoring kits are easy to install, reliable, and affordable security camera systems. If you are looking for a free, no-contract home monitoring kit, this one is worth considering.
The Blink’s cameras have a 720p HD video resolution that ensures clear footage with little to no blurring. They are also compact and sleek. Their size is 70.8 x 70.8 x 30 mm. One-, two-, three- and five-camera systems are available. But the Blink hub can support up to 10 cameras.
Arlo’s Smart Home Security Kit comes in with extra versatility. It comprises the Arlo Pro HD camera, an audio doorbell and the Arlo chime. Unlike Blink’s camera that is ideal for indoor use only, the Arlo system is weatherproof and can be installed both inside and outside. You can monitor your entryway more conveniently from any location.
Both cameras have a wide field of view of 110 degrees. They are durable and well made. However, Arlo’s system isn’t as compact as the Blink cameras. It weighs one pound, which is a little on the heavier side.
Power, Installation, Storage, and Streaming
Both the Arlo and Blink security systems are battery-powered. They are wholly wire-free and you do not require professional help to install them. Blink cameras have unique battery technology. Although the batteries are non-rechargeable, they can last for a whopping two years. Arlo’s batteries will need to be recharged every three to six months, depending on use.
Paid Subscription
Arlo’s camera, doorbell, and chime provide seven-day free cloud storage, upgradeable to up to 30 days via a paid subscription that costs between $2.99 – $19.99 depending on the number of cameras you have installed. Blink also has a cloud subscription plan. You can view security cameras without monthly subscriptions here.
When a person presses the doorbell, your phone rings instantly, and you can view or talk to the visitor at your door.
A “live view” mode allows you to monitor what is happening at your home in real-time. Have peace of mind knowing what is happening at home, even when you’re miles away.
Night Vision, Motion Detection, Audio
When motion is detected, both the Arlo pro camera and the Blink camera send instant alerts to your phone. And the “live streaming” mode allows you to view who is outside. A short clip is also recorded and sent to your cloud storage as soon as movement is sensed.
Arlo goes a step further to include a doorbell and a chime. If the visitor presses your Arlo doorbell, quick alerts are sent to your app. Your phone and chime(s) will ring instantly.
Two-Way Audio
You can see who is outside using the Arlo app on your smartphone. And because the doorbell has two-way audio, you can talk to your visitor remotely. Or, you can choose to leave them a short message.
Blink’s camera, on the other hand, doesn’t support two-way audio. You can only hear what the one outside says. The quality of the night vision on both cameras is great.
Night Vision
Arlo uses undetectable infrared rays, while Blink needs low-light illumination. Although the light on Blink’s camera is necessary for clear images, it is visible which may signal to an intruder that they are being watched.
A great addition to the Blink monitoring system is the temperature sensor. You can set your app to send alerts to your phone whenever the temperature rises or falls below a particular range.
Smart Integration & Smartphone App
Both the Blink and Arlo home security systems work with Alexa and Alexa-enabled devices (including Echo Dot, Amazon Echo and Amazon Tap) to give you remote voice control. On top of that, both options have a free smartphone app. You’ll receive instant motion alerts straight to your phone regardless of your location.
Please note that Blink requires at least Android 5 Lollipop or iOS 10.3. On the other hand, Arlo requires at least Android 6 or iOS 10. The apps allow you to control your system remotely.
Features
Use your app to adjust your camera’s sensitivity, set activity zones, view recorded video footage, arm or disarm your system, and more. Arlo’s smartphone app is more versatile. You can activate a security siren, leave a message, set your doorbell and chime to silent mode, etc.
However, neither of these home automation systems work with SmartThings or Apple’s Homekit.
Technical Comparison – Arlo vs Blink
| Arlo Smart Home Security Kit | Blink Indoor Home Security Camera System | |
| Video Resolution | 720p HD | 720p HD |
| Field of View | 110 degrees | 110 degrees |
| Smart Integration | Works with Alexa | Works with Alexa |
| Audio | Two-way audio | One-way audio and speaker |
| Power & Battery Life | Non-rechargeable batteries last up to two years | Rechargeable batteries last up to six months |
| Sensors | Motion, audio, and temperature sensors | Motion and audio sensors |
| Storage Capacity | 2 hours of free cloud storage | 7 days free cloud storage upgradeable to up to 30 days |
| Weatherproof | No | IP65 |
| Geofencing | No | Yes |
| Siren | No | Yes |
The Verdict
Arlo Smart Home Security Kit
Blink Indoor Home Security Camera System
Push notifications are instantly sent to your phone app when movement is sensed. The Blink’s Protection Kit is easy to install. And it can be controlled either via Alexa or through the Smartphone app.
Indoor Camera Head to Head
Arlo Q
Model(s): VMC3040-100NAS
Arlo Q is a diamond-shaped top quality indoor security camera. It measures 4.45 x 5.99 x 4.93 inches. Its set up is relatively easy. You’ll need to plug it into a power outlet 24/7. A long, 10 foot cable is provided. With a video resolution of 1080p/30fps, images and videos are crisp.Blink Mini
Pros
- Flexible monitoring schedules.
- Free cloud storage.
- Doesn’t need a base station.
Cons
- No local storage.
- Not waterproof.
Pros
- Compact.
- Easy installation.
- Clear two-way conversations.
Cons
- Need to pay to access cloud storage
Design, Resolution,& Field of View
Want to keep tabs with what is happening inside your house even when you’re away? Or do you want to watch your furry friend? Both the Arlo Q and Blink mini cameras are designed for this exact purpose. These are casual indoor monitoring cameras. They are not weatherproof and shouldn’t be used outside.
Like other cameras from Blink, the mini is compact measuring just 2 x 1.9 x 1.4 inches. On the other hand, Arlo Q measures 4.45 x 5.99 x 4.93 inches. Though it is twice as large as Blink’s camera, it is still relatively small and inconspicuous.
Resolution
With a video resolution of 1080p, both the Blink mini and Arlo Q provide crisp images both day and night. Designed for wide-angle viewing, you can monitor a large area using just one camera. But Arlo Q has a broader field of view of 130 degrees compared to the Blink mini’s 110 degrees.
Power, Installation, Storage, & Streaming
These indoor cameras need to be plugged into an AC outlet to function. The Arlo Q comes with a nearly ten-foot-long power connection USB cable while the Blink mini’s cable is about seven feet.
Paid Subscription
The Blink mini needs a subscription to access cloud storage. This costs between $3 – 10. It also has a local storage option, sold separately. But you’ll also need to buy the latest Blink Sync Module 2 and a USB flash drive.
Installation for both is a breeze. Easy to follow instructions are provided. They don't need sync modules either, they connect automatically to the home Wi-Fi network.
Additionally, you can stream real-time video 24/7 with both cameras via a smartphone app or the web portal (Arlo Q).
Night Vision, Motion Detection, Audio
Motion and audio alerts are sent to your phone instantly. Plus, both the Blink mini and Arlo Q cameras have a built-in mic and speaker for two-way communication. This means that you can communicate with your family (or pets) even when you’re away. Audio on both cameras is clear and reasonably decent, with a few seconds of delay.
What’s more, both cameras allow you to set activity zones for more accurate alerts. With built-in infrared night vision, your cameras will work around the clock to keep you informed on what’s happening at home. The Arlo Q camera has enhanced night vision to give better and brighter images.
Smart Integration & Smartphone App
With both options, you can arm or disarm your cameras via an Alexa-enabled device. You can also play recorded footage or stream live videos. However, Arlo is more versatile and works perfectly with Google Assistant, IFTTT & Stringify, too.
The Arlo Q and Blink mini are also accessible using their own Android or iOS app. Your smartphone app gives you remote access and control of your cameras regardless of your location. You can set schedules, activity zones, stream live, and more.
But, Arlo’s Q has a geofencing feature. With this feature, your camera is armed or disarmed automatically based on your phone’s location.
Technical Comparison – Arlo vs Blink
| Arlo Q | Blink Mini | |
| Video Resolution | 1080p | 1080p |
| Audio | 2-way audio recording & speaker | 2-way audio recording & speaker |
| Storage | 7-day free cloud storage plan | Paid cloud storage and local storage sold separately |
| Power | AC plug-in | AC plug-in |
| Wi-Fi | 2.4 & 5 GHz | 2.4GHz |
| Field of View | 130 degrees | 110 degrees |
| Dimensions | 4.45 x 5.99 x 4.93 inches | 2 x 1.9 x 1.4 inches |
| Live View | Streaming and recording | Streaming and recording |
| Power Cable Length | Roughly 10 feet long | Roughly 7 feet long |
| Motion Detection | Up to 50 feet | Up to 20 feet |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
The Verdict
Arlo Q
Model(s): VMC3040-100NAS
Arlo Q is a diamond-shaped top quality indoor security camera. It measures 4.45 x 5.99 x 4.93 inches. Its set up is relatively easy. You’ll need to plug it into a power outlet 24/7. A long, 10 foot cable is provided. With a video resolution of 1080p/30fps, images and videos are crisp.Blink Mini
Arlo vs Blink – Conclusion
Blink’s products are ideal for anyone looking for a reliable, yet affordable entry-level smart home security device. Arlo’s products are more sophisticated. They are more versatile and can be upgraded to provide even more premium features
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