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A security system is one of the most useful tools for deterring criminal activity and mitigating the risk of emergency situations occurring in the home. Some of them are challenging to position, others need to be charged on a frequent basis, and yet others call for a monthly payment. It is possible that it may be challenging to locate a security system that provides the most value for the money.
The installation of smart outdoor security cameras can be rather challenging because many models require a hub and wiring to function properly. However, these cameras give homeowners the ability to monitor activity outside their homes without having to leave their chairs. If you have a clear idea of your requirements, selecting a security camera won’t be a challenge for you.
Arlo Pro 5 Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Arlo Pro 5 |
| Camera Resolution | 2K (2560 x 1440) |
| Video Quality | High-definition with HDR |
| Field of View | 160 degrees |
| Night Vision | Color night vision |
| Audio | Two-way audio with built-in microphone |
| Power Source | Rechargeable battery or optional solar panel |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet |
| Weather Resistance | Weather-resistant and IP65 certified |
Design and installation
Like more current Arlo cameras like the Arlo Pro 4, the Pro 5 can work with either an Arlo Base Station or Wi-Fi. When setting up the camera, it says that a SmartHub is the best way to go in terms of signal strength and quality, but I’ve had no problems running it straight connected to my mesh system. Whether or not you need the base station will depend on how good your computer is and how strong Wi-Fi is where you put the camera.
The new camera doesn’t look like it has much to say about it. It looks and feels exactly the same as the Arlo Pro 4. Like that camera, the Pro 5 has a white plastic body in the shape of a disk. Underneath, there is a quick-release button that lets you slide the camera unit out so you can get to the battery and the Sync button to set it up. You can buy this from its official website
Arlo Pro 5: Video Quality
The 160-degree lens has a good field of view, especially when used outside. When we set up my camera at the back of the yard, we could easily capture everything up to the back door. This camera takes 2K video on the inside, which is the same as what the Arlo Pro 4 did. The main change is that this model of Arlo has a 12-bit sensor, while the previous model only had a 10-bit sensor. Even though that doesn’t sound like much, a 12-bit monitor can pick up 68 billion different colors. During the day, things are getting better, but it’s not as clear. Even when strong sunlight was shining on the camera, we found that the HDR pictures were clear and detailed all the way to the back of the frame.
Arlo Pro 5: Performance
The spotlight does produce a respectable amount of illumination, but not quite as much as Arlo claims. Outside of my 2- to 3-meter test area, my face was not clearly visible, but this was still an improvement over total darkness. Authorities would be able to use the footage immediately thanks to its high resolution (2K).
The Pro 5 was quite good at picking up on any major motion, whether from a person or an animal. It has even managed to capture a few foxes and squirrels that dared to venture onto my roof. If you subscribe to Arlo Secure, the app will tell you the exact location of the motion it detected and alert you.
Arlo Pro 5: Battery life
Given the volume of notifications, estimating the battery life of a security camera can be challenging. According to Arlo, the Pro 5 has a 30% greater lifespan than the Pro 4. Considering the Pro 4’s six-month battery life, the Pro 3’s longevity should be close to eight months.
If the Pro 5 is anything like the Pro 4, which I had to charge every two to three months, it should last close to four months before needing a recharge. Any improvement is welcome, as I’d rather not have to charge my camera as often.
Final Words
The Arlo Pro 5 is the greatest wireless security camera because it improves upon its predecessor, the Pro 4, in every way. The updated app is mostly successful as well, with a cleaner UI and improved accessibility for finding your favorite videos and cameras. The previous method allowed for significantly more granular management over individual cameras and SmartHubs, which may be missed by more experienced users.
Arlo Pro 5 review: The good and The bad
The Good
- Excellent night footage
- Improved battery life
The Bad
- Can’t move widgets around
FAQS
On the other hand, Arlo’s cameras are some of the most expensive ones we looked at. If you want any of the smart detection features, you also have to pay for the subscription service, and constant video recording 24 hours a day, 7 days a week costs even more.
Do we need an Arlo Base Station or SmartHub to use Arlo Pro 5S? No. You don’t have to use an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station. Arlo Pro 5S can connect straight to your Wi-Fi router.