Choosing the right smart doorbell can be a game-changer for your home security, and Arlo is a popular choice. But before you invest, it's crucial to understand the Arlo doorbell subscription cost in the UK and what you get for your money. Let's dive into the details so you can make an informed decision.

Understanding Arlo Subscription Plans

Arlo offers a range of subscription plans tailored to different needs and budgets. These plans unlock advanced features that enhance the functionality of your Arlo doorbell. Without a subscription, your Arlo doorbell will still function, providing live video and motion alerts, but recorded videos won't be saved to the cloud. This is where the Arlo Secure plans come in, offering cloud storage, advanced object detection, and more.

Arlo Secure: This is the most basic subscription plan, providing 30 days of video history at up to 2K video resolution. It also includes person, vehicle, and package detection, which reduces the number of false notifications you receive. This plan is ideal for users who want essential features without breaking the bank.

Arlo Secure Plus: Upgrading to Secure Plus unlocks 4K video recording and storage, along with 24/7 emergency response. The emergency response feature allows you to quickly contact fire, police, or medical responders directly through the Arlo app, which can be invaluable in an emergency. This plan is best for users who want the highest video quality and an extra layer of security.

Arlo Safe & Secure Pro: is the most complete security subscription plan. It includes everything in Arlo Secure Plus, but adds: Fall Detection, Emergency SOS, and Smoke/CO Alarm Detection. All these features will increase the security of your home.

Arlo Subscription Costs in the UK

The Arlo doorbell subscription cost in the UK varies depending on the plan you choose and whether you opt for monthly or annual billing. Here's a breakdown of the approximate costs:

• Arlo Secure: Expect to pay around £3.49 per month or £34.99 per year for a single camera. If you have multiple Arlo devices, you can opt for a multi-camera plan, which costs more but covers all your devices.
• Arlo Secure Plus: This plan typically costs around £11.99 per month or £119.99 per year. The higher price reflects the enhanced features, such as 4K video and emergency response.
• Arlo Safe & Secure Pro: This top-tier plan is priced around £19.99 per month or £199 per year, offering the most comprehensive security features available.

It's worth noting that Arlo occasionally offers promotional discounts, so keep an eye out for deals that can save you money on your subscription.

Features You Get with an Arlo Subscription

Subscribing to an Arlo plan unlocks a range of features that significantly enhance the functionality of your Arlo doorbell. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:

Cloud Video Recording

Without a subscription, your Arlo doorbell only provides live video. With a subscription, recorded videos are stored securely in the cloud, allowing you to review footage at any time. This is crucial for security purposes, as you can use the recordings to identify potential threats or provide evidence to the police.

Advanced Object Detection

Arlo's advanced object detection uses AI to identify people, vehicles, packages, and animals. This reduces the number of false notifications you receive, ensuring you're only alerted when something important happens. For example, you won't be notified every time a cat walks across your lawn.

Activity Zones

Activity zones allow you to specify areas within the camera's field of view that you want to monitor more closely. When motion is detected in these zones, you'll receive a notification. This is useful for focusing on specific areas, such as your front porch or driveway.

24/7 Emergency Response

The Arlo Secure Plus plan includes 24/7 emergency response, which allows you to quickly contact fire, police, or medical responders through the Arlo app. This can be a lifesaver in an emergency, providing immediate access to help when you need it most.

4K Video Recording

With Arlo Secure Plus, you can record and store videos in stunning 4K resolution. This provides crystal-clear footage, making it easier to identify details such as faces or license plates.

Evaluating the Need for a Subscription

Deciding whether to subscribe to an Arlo plan depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you only need basic functionality and don't mind missing out on cloud storage and advanced features, you can use the Arlo doorbell without a subscription. However, for most users, a subscription is highly recommended.

A subscription provides peace of mind, knowing that your videos are securely stored and that you'll receive intelligent alerts when something important happens. The advanced object detection and activity zones help to reduce false notifications, while the 24/7 emergency response can be invaluable in an emergency.

Alternatives to Arlo Subscriptions

If you're not keen on paying a monthly subscription fee, there are alternative smart doorbells that offer local storage. These doorbells store video recordings on a local storage device, such as an SD card, eliminating the need for a cloud subscription. However, local storage can be less secure than cloud storage, as the storage device could be stolen or damaged.

Some popular smart doorbells with local storage options include Ring doorbells (with a Ring Protect subscription for cloud storage) and some models from Eufy. It's worth researching these alternatives to see if they better suit your needs.

Setting Up Your Arlo Doorbell in the UK

Setting up your Arlo doorbell in the UK is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Download the Arlo App: The first step is to download the Arlo app from the App Store (for iOS devices) or Google Play Store (for Android devices).
2. Create an Account: Once the app is installed, create an Arlo account. You’ll need to provide your email address and create a password.
3. Add Your Device: Follow the in-app instructions to add your Arlo doorbell to your account. The app will guide you through the process of connecting the doorbell to your Wi-Fi network.
4. Mount the Doorbell: Install the doorbell at your desired location using the included mounting hardware. Ensure that the doorbell has a clear view of the area you want to monitor.
5. Configure Settings: Use the Arlo app to configure the doorbell’s settings, such as motion detection sensitivity, video quality, and notification preferences.

Tips for Optimizing Your Arlo Doorbell

To get the most out of your Arlo doorbell, consider these tips:

• Positioning: Place the doorbell at an optimal height and angle to capture the best view of your front porch or entryway.
• Wi-Fi Signal: Ensure that your doorbell has a strong Wi-Fi signal. If the signal is weak, consider using a Wi-Fi extender to boost the signal.
• Motion Sensitivity: Adjust the motion sensitivity to reduce false notifications. Experiment with different settings to find the optimal balance between sensitivity and accuracy.
• Firmware Updates: Keep your Arlo doorbell’s firmware up to date to ensure that it has the latest features and security updates.

Troubleshooting Common Arlo Doorbell Issues

Like any electronic device, your Arlo doorbell may encounter issues from time to time. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

• Doorbell Not Connecting to Wi-Fi: Ensure that your Wi-Fi network is working properly and that the doorbell is within range of the router. Try restarting the doorbell and your router.
• Motion Detection Not Working: Check the motion detection settings in the Arlo app. Make sure that motion detection is enabled and that the sensitivity is set appropriately.
• Poor Video Quality: Ensure that your Wi-Fi signal is strong and that the video quality settings are set to the highest resolution. Clean the doorbell’s lens to remove any dirt or debris.
• Battery Life Issues: If your Arlo doorbell is battery-powered, ensure that the batteries are fully charged. Reduce the frequency of motion detection and video recording to conserve battery life.

Conclusion: Is an Arlo Subscription Worth It?

The Arlo doorbell subscription cost in the UK is a key consideration when choosing a smart doorbell. While the basic Arlo doorbell provides essential functionality, a subscription unlocks a range of advanced features that enhance security and convenience. The Arlo Secure plans offer cloud storage, advanced object detection, and 24/7 emergency response, providing peace of mind and enhanced protection for your home.

Ultimately, whether an Arlo subscription is worth it depends on your individual needs and budget. Evaluate the features offered in each plan and consider how they align with your security goals. By understanding the Arlo doorbell subscription cost in the UK and the benefits of each plan, you can make an informed decision and choose the best option for your home.

Remember to keep an eye out for promotional discounts that can save you money on your subscription. With the right plan, your Arlo doorbell can provide enhanced security and peace of mind for years to come.