If you are looking for a smart video doorbell that can show you who is at your doorstep and let you communicate with them from anywhere, you might be interested in the latest offerings from Arlo and Ring. Both companies have recently launched their flagship video doorbells that claim to offer high-quality video, advanced features, and easy installation. But which one is better for your home and budget? Here is a comparison of the Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen and the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 to help you decide.
One of the main differences between the two video doorbells is the price. The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen is available in two versions: HD and 2K, which cost $80 and $130 respectively. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, on the other hand, is a premium product that costs $250. Both video doorbells require a wired connection to your existing doorbell wiring, so you might need to hire a professional to install them if you are not comfortable with DIY.
To access some of the features and benefits of the video doorbells, such as cloud storage, smart notifications, and advanced detection, you will also need to subscribe to their respective online services. Arlo offers Arlo Secure, which starts at $5 per month and gives you 30 days of video history, person, vehicle, animal, and package detection, and emergency call service. Ring offers Ring Protect, which starts at $4 per month and gives you 60 days of video history, people only mode, and customizable motion zones.
Video quality and field of view
Both video doorbells boast impressive video quality and resolution. The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen can record in HD (1536 x 1536 pixels) or 2K (2560 x 2560 pixels), depending on the model you choose. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 can record in HD (1536 x 1536 pixels) as well. Both video doorbells also have HDR, which enhances the contrast and color of the video, and night vision, which allows you to see clearly in the dark.
However, the video doorbells differ in their field of view and aspect ratio. The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen has a 180-degree diagonal field of view and a 1:1 aspect ratio, which means you can see the full length of your visitor and any packages on the ground. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 has a 150-degree horizontal and 150-degree vertical field of view and a 1:1 aspect ratio, which means you can see more of the surroundings but less of the visitor’s height.
Features and performance
Both video doorbells have a range of features and functions that make them smart and convenient. For example, both video doorbells have two-way audio, which lets you talk and listen to your visitors, and live view, which lets you see what is happening at your door anytime. Both video doorbells also have motion detection, which alerts you when someone approaches your door, and pre-recorded messages, which let you greet your visitors or tell them to leave a message when you are busy.
However, the video doorbells also have some unique features that set them apart. The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen has a feature called direct-to-mobile video call, which lets you answer the doorbell from your phone without opening the app. It also has a feature called silent mode, which lets you mute the chime and notifications when you do not want to be disturbed. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 has a feature called 3D motion detection, which uses a built-in radar to measure the distance and angle of the motion and create a bird’s eye view of the activity. It also has a feature called Alexa Greetings, which lets you use your Amazon Echo device to answer the doorbell and take messages for you.
The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen and the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 are both powerful and smart video doorbells that can enhance your home security and convenience. However, they have different strengths and weaknesses that might suit different preferences and needs. The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen is more affordable and versatile, while the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is more expensive and advanced. Ultimately, the choice depends on your budget, your existing smart home ecosystem, and your personal taste.
