Let's get straight to the point: Arlo vs Ring, which one is better?
Both Arlo and Ring are renowned for manufacturing highly efficient, entry-level home monitoring systems. Each company has an entire line of DIY home automation products ideal for renters and homeowners alike. We dive deep to work out which one is worth investing in.
Ring offers a wider range of home monitoring products, including niche devices such as environment and window sensors while Arlo mainly focuses on security cameras.
In this guide, we’ll focus only on the products that both Alro and Ring have in their portfolios. This includes indoor cameras, floodlight cameras, video doorbells, outdoor cameras, and kit & protection plans.
Before we can dive into the details, let's check out the benefits of installing a home monitoring system.
Importance of a Home Monitoring System
- Deters intruders.
- Lets you access and monitor your home regardless of your location.
- Perfect baby and pet monitor.
- Gives you peace of mind by monitoring areas, people, and things that matter most.
- Reduces insurance premiums for your home.
Indoor / Outdoor Security Camera Head to Head
Arlo Ultra Outdoor Camera
Model(s): VMS5240
With a built-in siren and spotlight, Arlo Ultra is one of the most versatile cameras available on the market today. It has a weather rating of IP65. Thus it is resistant to water and dust and can be used both indoors and outdoors.This security camera also has a broad viewing angle of 180 degrees. It is wire-free and can be installed almost anywhere.
The Arlo Ultra Camera has a 4K HDR video resolution to give clean and clear images. And a color night vision ensures images clear and sharp even at night.
Ring Stick Up Cam
With 1080p video resolution, video recordings are sharp. The footage recorded is stored in the cloud for up to 60 days. But you’ll need a Ring Protect Plan subscription.
Additionally, this security camera has three power options. It can be powered by a battery, plugged into AC power, or a solar panel. The camera also works well with Amazon Alexa.
Pros
- 180 degrees field of view.
- Built-in siren and spotlight.
- Works with Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit.
Cons
- Installation instructions could have been clearer.
- Camera has to be unmounted to charge.
Pros
- Easy to replace used batteries.
- Works with Amazon Alexa.
- Cloud storage for up to 60 days.
Cons
- No local storage options.
- Zoom could be better.
Design, Resolution, & Field of View
In terms of size, the Arlo Ultra measures 89 x 52 x 78.4 mm while the Ring Stick Up Cam camera measures 60 x 60 x 97 mm. Although these are not the smallest cameras out there, they are sleek and still inconspicuous.
One of the major differences between these two cameras is their video resolution. While the Arlo Ultra camera has a whopping 4K UHD, Ring’s Stick Up Cam comes in with a 1080p video resolution. Both of their video recordings are crisp and clear. However, Arlo Ultra’s quality is a notch higher than that of the Ring camera.
The Arlo Ultra camera has a super-wide 180-degree viewing angle, while the Ring has a 130-degree field of view. Although Ring’s 130 degrees viewing angle may seem small, it is still broader than that of its close competitors.
Both cameras checkthe weatherproof box on the Alro vs Ring checklist. You can use them both indoors and outdoors.
Power, Installation, Storage, & Streaming
Arlo Ultra and Ring Stick Up Cam are both versatile security cameras that are easy to install. They are entirely wire-free. This means you can mount them anywhere: to your ceiling, wall, or on a flat surface. They are also easy to move around, making them an ideal home monitoring solution for renters.
While the Arlo Ultra is powered via a rechargeable battery, the Ring Stick Up Cam comes with more options. It can use a battery, AC plug-in, or solar power.
In both Arlo vs Ring indoor/outdoor security cameras, you can stream your live feed straight to your phone app or review recorded footage. The Ring Stick Up Cam has no provision for local storage while Arlo Ultra supports an SD card of up to 32GB. The SD card has to be bought separately.
They can also store footage in the cloud. However, you need to have a monthly or an annual storage plan to get acces to that feature. When buying an Arlo Ultra, you get a renewable 1-year free subscription to Arlo Smart Premier that stores up to 30 days of cloud recordings.
Night Vision, Motion & Audio Detection
Like the Ring Stick Up Cam, thhe Arlo Ultra has built-in motion detection. You can customize the device to send you notifications about motion triggers only in certain preset areas. These areas are known as activity zones.
However, Arlo allows for a higher degree of customization than Ring. While the Stick Up Cam only allows regular-shaped activity zones, with the Arlo app you can select an irregularly-shaped activity zone.
Also, with a subscription, Arlo has an artificial intelligence feature. With this, your camera can customize alerts depending on the specific item detected. The camera can differentiate cars, animals, and human beings. This means your camera will not give false alerts when your pet passes by.
To add on to the bells and whistles of the Arlo Ultra, the camera also has auto-zoom and tracking features. When movement is detected, the camera automatically focuses, zooms, and tracks the object. And a built-in siren can be set to go on either automatically when motion or audio is sensed, or remotely through your Arlo app.
And finally, both the Stick Up Cam and Arlo Ultra have two-way audio recording. You can communicate with the people at home or listen to what they’re saying. You can also set the app to send you push notifications if audio is detected within your home.
Smart Integration & Smartphone App
The Arlo Ultra works with Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit. The Ring Stick Up Cam, on the other hand, only works with Amazon Alexa. This smart integration lets you operate your security cameras hands free. Also, your Echo device alerts you as soon as motion is detected.
Once you get the alert, you can either view live footage through your Ring or Arlo smartphone app, or you can review recorder footage later. The smartphone apps are available for both Android and iOS phones.
Technical Comparison – Arlo vs Ring
| Arlo Ultra | Ring Stick Up Cam | |
| Audio | Dual mic with noise and wind cancellation | Dual mic and speaker |
| Storage | SD slot, Subscription needed for cloud storage | No local storage, Subscription needed for cloud storage |
| Power option | Rechargeable battery | Battery, 2 years under normal use (about 40, 000 seconds) |
| Weatherproof rating | IP65 | IPX5 |
| Dimensions | 89 * 52 * 78.4 mm | 60 * 60 * 97 mm |
| Operating temperature | -20 to 60 degree Celsius | -15 to 37 degrees Celsius |
| Field of View | 180 degrees | 150 degrees horizontal and 85 degrees vertical |
| Spotlight | 42Lux @1M, 6500K | None |
| Video modes | 4k, 1080p, 720p | Up to 1080p |
| Smart Integrations | Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit | Amazon Alexa |
| Siren | 80dB | None |
| Radio | Dual-band 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi | Dual-band 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
The Verdict
Arlo Ultra Outdoor Camera
Model(s): VMS5240
With a built-in siren and spotlight, Arlo Ultra is one of the most versatile cameras available on the market today. It has a weather rating of IP65. Thus it is resistant to water and dust and can be used both indoors and outdoors.This security camera also has a broad viewing angle of 180 degrees. It is wire-free and can be installed almost anywhere.
The Arlo Ultra Camera has a 4K HDR video resolution to give clean and clear images. And a color night vision ensures images clear and sharp even at night.
Ring Stick Up Cam
With 1080p video resolution, video recordings are sharp. The footage recorded is stored in the cloud for up to 60 days. But you’ll need a Ring Protect Plan subscription.
Additionally, this security camera has three power options. It can be powered by a battery, plugged into AC power, or a solar panel. The camera also works well with Amazon Alexa.
Floodlight Security Camera Head to Head
Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera
Model(s): FB1001
The Arlo Pro3 Floodlight camera is a versatile security camera with 2K, 1080p, and 720p video modes. Its 4-megapixel image sensor ensures that images are clear and detailed. Night vision is decent with both black and white and night color vision options.Packed with 2000 lumens, Arlo’s floodlights provide clear illumination. And the brightness can go up to 3000 lumens when connected to the outdoor magnetic charger (bought separately).
There is also a smart siren that can be activated remotely through your smartphone or automatically when motion is detected.
Ring Floodlight Camera
The floodlight cameras have a video resolution of 1080p, including clear night vision and a live streaming mode. It also has two-way audio and a built-in siren. Ring security floodlight cameras are weatherproof and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Pros
- 2K HDR Video.
- Super bright with up to 3000 lumen brightness.
- Long-lasting rechargeable battery.
Cons
- Monthly subscription needed to enjoy full features.
- 3 to 5 seconds lag in live viewing mode.
Pros
- Wide 140 degrees horizontal field of view.
- Built-in siren.
- Crisp 1080p video.
Cons
- Needs subscription to store footage recorded.
- Requires strong Wi-Fi connection to work well.
Design, Resolution, & Field of View
The Arlo Pro 3 floodlight camera is an upgrade to the Arlo Pro 3 camera. Its exterior is white, with a wing-shaped face. Its rear is prolonged to allow more room for its large battery.
With a 160 degree broad diagonal field of view and 2K video resolution, Arlo Pro 3 floodlight camera produces crisp video output. And the wide viewing angle ensures you can focus on all the areas that matter.
The Arlo floodlight is also super bright. It has 2000 lumens which can be upgraded to 3000 lumens via an outdoor magnetic power cable. Brightness settings vary from 5% to 100%.
Ring’s floodlight camera comprises two LED built-in floodlights and a security camera.
With an output of 3000 Kelvin, the floodlights are bright enough to shed light when motion is detected. The 1800 lumens light is a little dimmer than that of the Arlo Pro 3 floodlight but is bright enough to deter any intruder or unwanted critter.
The security camera has a wide-angle field of view of 140 degrees. And a 1080p resolution ensures crisp video recordings and live streaming both day and night.
Power, Installation, Storage, & Streaming
Arlo’s Pro 3 floodlight camera is an entirely wireless security camera that can be installed anywhere. Installation is easy. Simply download the Arlo app for an easy-to-follow installation guide. Then mount it on the wall or ceiling using the brackets provided.
Unlike Arlo’s wireless floodlight, Ring’s floodlight camera is wired perfectly for replacing a previously wired floodlight. Even so, the installation is not as easy. And if you are installing a floodlight for the first time, you may need professional help.
Another striking difference between these two floodlight cameras is their power options. The Arlo Pro 3 can either be powered via an outdoor charging cable (sold separately), an optional solar panel or through a rechargeable battery. The battery can last for three to six months depending on usage.
On the other hand, the Ring floodlight needs to be hardwired to (110-240V) power. This means that these floodlights can only be installed in an area close to a power source.
With both Arlo vs Ring, video streaming is crisp. And a live mode viewing allows you to remotely monitor the real-time events around your home.
Neither floodlight cameras have local storage options, though. Thus, to access cloud storage and review past recordings, you’ll need to subscribe to a monthly or annual subscription plan.
Night Vision, Motion & Audio Detection
The cameras on both the Arlo and Ring floodlight have great night vision. However, Arlo Pro 3 cameras are more versatile. Night vision can either be colored or in the traditional black and white.
Additionally, the floodlights come with motion sensors. They’ll automatically light up when movement is detected. Both Arlo vs Ring have built-in sirens. The siren in the Ring floodlight is louder at 110 decibels and can be activated remotely via the Ring app. On the other hand, the siren on Arlo Pro 3 floodlight can be preset to sound as soon as motion is detected or remotely through the app.
Another feature that is common to both floodlights is the two-way audio. You can listen remotely to what is being said outside. Better yet, you can speak to the person outside, which is a perfect way to let intruders know they’re being watched. The audio quality is great, too. Or, you can choose audio privacy if you do not want to hear what is being said,
Both floodlight cameras are also highly customizable. The smartphone app allows you to set activity zones. These are areas where you want the cameras to focus on. But the Pro 3 floodlight camera cuts an edge above Ring’s floodlight as it has an auto-tracking feature that auto-zooms and tracks any objects detected.
Smart Integration & Smartphone App
Smart Integration is one of the most important features to consider when buying any security camera. You want an option that allows you to monitor and control your floodlight remotely with the utmost convenience.
Both the Ring and Arlo floodlights connect directly to your Wi-Fi. No hub required! You can control and monitor your floodlight camera from anywhere, at any time. Simply connect your security camera to their respective smartphone app
You’ll receive a notification as soon as your floodlight detects motion. You can then choose to enter live view mode to see the source of movement. You can review and share recorded footage stored in the cloud.
However, you’ll need a monthly or annual subscription to access the cloud storage in both floodlights. The apps are easy to use and both of their user interfaces are friendly and easy to follow.
Moreover, these security cameras work with Amazon Alexa and Alexa enabled devices. You can use your voice to issue commands to your floodlights.
Technical Comparison – Arlo vs Ring
| Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera | Ring Floodlight Camera | |
| Light Type | Floodlight | Floodlight |
| Brightness | 2000 lumens (3000 lumens when connected to outdoor charging cable) | 1800 lumens |
| Power | Rechargeable battery | A/C connection required |
| Weatherproof rating | IP65 | IP55 |
| Dimensions | 218.5 mm x 190.5 mm x 77.9 mm | 280 mm x 210 mm x 178 mm |
| Operating temperature | -20 to 45 degree Celsius | -30 to 48.5 degrees Celsius |
| Video | 2K, 1080p, 720p | 1080p |
| Field of View | 160 degrees diagonal | 140 degrees horizontal |
| Siren | Remote-activated or motion-triggered | Remote-activated |
| Alexa | Yes | Yes |
| Wiring | Wireless | Wired |
| Audio | Two-way audio | Two-way audio |
The Verdict
Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera
Model(s): FB1001
The Arlo Pro3 Floodlight camera is a versatile security camera with 2K, 1080p, and 720p video modes. Its 4-megapixel image sensor ensures that images are clear and detailed. Night vision is decent with both black and white and night color vision options.Packed with 2000 lumens, Arlo’s floodlights provide clear illumination. And the brightness can go up to 3000 lumens when connected to the outdoor magnetic charger (bought separately).
There is also a smart siren that can be activated remotely through your smartphone or automatically when motion is detected.
Ring Floodlight Camera
The floodlight cameras have a video resolution of 1080p, including clear night vision and a live streaming mode. It also has two-way audio and a built-in siren. Ring security floodlight cameras are weatherproof and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Kits & Protection Plans Head to Head
Arlo Smart Home Security Kit
When movement is detected, the camera instantly records the footage which you can review in the cloud or talk to your visitors using the two-way audio. The doorbell lets you view and talk to your visitor while the chime is a perfect add-on to alert you whenever someone is at your door.
All-new Ring Alarm 14-Piece kit
Anyone can install the alarm system by following the provided instructions. Push notifications are sent straight to your mobile as soon as your alarm is triggered. And the system works with Alexa for hands free operation.
What’s more, you can upgrade your alarm system to include professional 24/7 monitoring by paying a premium of $10/month.
Pros
- Completely wireless and easy to install.
- -20 to 45 degrees wide operating temperature range.
- Doorbell lets you see who is at the door.
Cons
- Battery life could have been longer.
- Voice calls could have been two-way.
Pros
- Set up is a breeze.
- Live view streaming mode for real-time surveillance.
- Quick alerts when motion is detected.
Cons
- A bit of lag before sending motion alerts.
Design, Resolution & Field of View
The Ring Alarm System is an affordable, yet reliable home monitoring alarm system. It comes with all you need for a complete DIY alarm. It's also a perfect for two to four-bedroom houses.
The kit comes with two motion detectors, a range extender, two keypads, eight contact sensors you can place on doors and windows, and a base station. The motion detectors are best installed in larger rooms and hallways.
The Ring alarm also supports carbon monoxide and fire detectors that you can buy separately.
On the other hand, the Arlo Home monitoring kit is quite different. It has a doorbell, chime, and camera. And while the Ring alarm system is only ideal for indoor use, the Arlo kit is weather-resistant. It can be mounted both indoors and outdoors. And its camera has a decent viewing angle of 110 degrees.
Arlo’s system has an operating temperature of -20 to 45 degrees Celsius while Rings alarm’s operating temperature is 0 to 40 degrees Celsius
Power, Installation, Storage, and Streaming
The Ring Alarm Base Station, Range Extender, and Alarm Keypad need to be connected to 100 – 240v 50/60 HZ AC power. But a backup battery is included. The battery is rechargeable and it comes in handy during power blackouts. But the contact sensors and motion detectors are battery-powered only. You can place them anywhere inside your house.
On the other hand, the Arlo protection kit is battery-powered. This includes the camera, chime, and doorbell. The batteries are rechargeable and can last up to six months.
A great feature common to both the Arlo vs Ring protection kits is their ease of installation. The installation is completely DIY. No professional help needed.
While Ring requires a few power cables for the base station, range extender, and alarm keypad, Arlo’s system is competely wireless. But you will need an Arlo base station, which is not included in the package.
Arlo includes live streaming for real-time updates. And the video resolution is great, too!
Another nice feature included in the Arlo kit is free, 7 days of cloud storage, upgradeable to 30 days. But with Ring, you’ll need a separate subscription for cloud storage services.
Night Vision, Motion Detection, Audio
The Ring system has three settings: disarmed, home, and away. In its armed state, push notifications are sent to your phone, almost instantly, when movement is detected. The home mode ignores movement inside the house and only records entryways' motion sensors.
The away mode automatically arms your home. A customizable 30 second to 3 minute timer allows ample time to exit your house or to disarm the alarm if triggered by mistake. The system sends alerts to your phone if it detects any motion.
With the Arlo system, when anyone presses your doorbell, it instantly sends a quick alert to your chime and phone. You can view a live clip of who is knocking outside. The video resolution is crisp day and night.
Because the doorbell has two-way audio, you can actually talk to your visitor remotely. Or, you can choose to leave them a short message.
Smart Integration & Smartphone App
Both the Arlo vs Ring apps are compatible with select Alexa devices, such as the Echo Dot, for hands free control. These home protection kits allow remote control using a smartphone app as well.
The Arlo vs Ring phone apps have straightforward user interfaces. With the Ring app, you can arm or disarm your system using your phone. The app also allows you to customize the sensitivity of your sensors and set the timer duration for your “away” mode.
With Arlo’s app, you can view cloud recordings, stream live, set hot-spot zones, communicate with the visitor at the doorbell, share videos, and more. However, you must have the Arlo base station, which you have to buy separately.
The Verdict
Arlo Smart Home Security Kit
When movement is detected, the camera instantly records the footage which you can review in the cloud or talk to your visitors using the two-way audio. The doorbell lets you view and talk to your visitor while the chime is a perfect add-on to alert you whenever someone is at your door.
All-new Ring Alarm 14-Piece kit
Anyone can install the alarm system by following the provided instructions. Push notifications are sent straight to your mobile as soon as your alarm is triggered. And the system works with Alexa for hands free operation.
What’s more, you can upgrade your alarm system to include professional 24/7 monitoring by paying a premium of $10/month.