The Arlo Pro 2 security camera is among the most popular camera models available in the market. Now, given its popularity, you might end up having doubts about its performance, features, and more. If yes, this blog will try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the Arlo Pro 2 Wire-Free Camera.
Compatibility with Alexa
The Arlo Pro 2 camera setup works well with Alexa. You can use voice commands to control several functions and initiate actions like capturing snapshots, enabling or disabling motion detection, raising an alarm, etc. However, you will need to use an Alexa-enabled device or a smartphone with Alexa installed to do so. You can view the live feed from your Arlo and access and modify additional features and settings. You can use the Arlo app or the default my.arlo.com URL to do so.
Now, from within the Alexa app, you can start looking for Arlo skills and enable them to link your Arlo and Alexa accounts. Alternatively, you can ask Alexa to enable Arlo’s skills as well. Once you have linked the accounts, you can command Alexa to show you the live feed, start and stop recording and do more. Your Arlo camera system will now be even functional.
Camera Resolution
Arlo security cameras like the Arlo Pro 2 can record videos in 1080p Full-HD resolution. The Arlo Pro 2 Setup comes equipped with night vision that ensures you get a crisp and clear video under low light conditions as well. The images that the camera captures are sharp thus allowing for easy detection. The night vision of the Arlo Pro 2 camera can record in black and white. If you are looking for color recording during the night, you can go for the latest Pro 3 and Arlo Ultra setup.
Comparison to the Arlo and Arlo Pro
The Arlo Pro 2 camera has several advanced features that were not available with the previous Arlo and Arlo Pro models. While the original Arlo model didn’t include USB local storage, security siren, activity zones, and continuous recording, all of these features come integrated with the Arlo Pro 2.
While the Arlo Pro camera system did have the USB backup option and security siren, it missed out on nonstop recording and activity zones. Now, these features are integrated into the Arlo Pro 2 camera setup.
Weather and Water Resistance
The Arlo Pro2 cameras are weather-resistant but not waterproof. You can install them indoors or outdoors easily using the mounts. You can submerge them in water completely, however, can install them in the rain, snow, and severe wind conditions.
When you are installing the camera outdoors, you will need to connect them to a base station using WiFi. You can also purchase a weatherproof power cable for the base station so the same can be moved across areas. Also, when you are connected to the Arlo Pro 2 using WiFi, activity zones and continuous recording features are partially unavailable.
Continuous Recording
Your Arlo camera can record continuously only when it is in armed mode. The recording will only happen when motion is detected. However, enabling this will require a subscription to CVR(Continuous Video Recording) plan. Also, if you wish to record continuously, you’ll need to connect the camera to the AC power supply as it won’t work on battery power.
Compatibility with Samsung SmartThings and Wink Hub
Arlo Pro 2 setup works perfectly with Samsung SmartThings and WinkHub. Though earlier versions of the Arlo Pro 2 didn’t provide support for the smart device hubs, the latest firmware updates now allow for limited support for the Pro2 cameras.
The SmartThings Hub V1 and V2, Samsung Connect Home, and SmartThings Link for NVidia Shield works perfectly well with Arlo cameras. However, you can only connect your camera to one SmartThings location at a time. To add the device, you can use the SmartThings mobile app. Simply, select the camera from the device list and tap on the Arlo camera. Sign in to the Arlo camera account and accept the agreement to link the accounts.
Arlo Pro 2 and BaseStation
Arlo cameras require a base station to save the video footage on a local storage device. You can attach a USB drive to the base station and the footage will be stored on it automatically. You may also choose to upload the same to the cloud. However, make sure the Base Station is functional while recording. If the BaseStation is Offline, you can follow easy steps to troubleshoot the issue and try again.
Arlo comes with a free 7-day cloud storage plan. Thus, you can save and access videos and photos from anywhere using the Arlo app. In general, two cameras come bundled with a base station. You may choose to purchase extra cameras as well. Since the Arlo camera system allows a user to connect 15 cameras at max, you can pair them with the base station easily.
Battery- Life and Charging
The Arlo Pro 2 comes with a ready-to-use battery when it’s packed in the factory. You can also use the power adapter cable to plug the camera into a power outlet to charge it. Alternatively, you can also use the Arlo Pro Charging Station to charge the camera’s battery. If you think you need a replacement for your Arlo Pro 2’s battery, you can purchase a spare battery and charging station.
Coming to the Arlo battery life, the battery on your Arlo pro 2 can easily last up to six months. Moreover, this duration can be extended if you use key settings and follow some battery life tips.