Choosing the right smart doorbell can significantly enhance your home security, and Arlo is a popular choice. However, understanding the subscription costs associated with Arlo doorbells in the UK is crucial before making a purchase. Let's dive into a detailed breakdown of Arlo's subscription plans, features, and costs to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Arlo Subscription Plans

When it comes to Arlo subscription plans, it's essential to know what you're getting. Without a subscription, your Arlo doorbell functions with limited capabilities. You'll receive real-time notifications and can view live video, but recorded footage is not stored, and advanced features are unavailable. To unlock the full potential of your Arlo doorbell, a subscription plan is necessary.

Arlo offers several subscription tiers designed to cater to different needs and budgets. These plans primarily revolve around video storage, smart detection, and emergency response features. Understanding the nuances of each plan will help you determine the best fit for your home security requirements. The basic Arlo plan, often called Arlo Secure, provides essential features such as 30-day video history and person, vehicle, and package detection. Stepping up from the basic plan, Arlo Secure Plus offers enhanced capabilities, including 4K video recording and an emergency response feature. For users seeking comprehensive protection, Arlo also provides bundled plans that include professional monitoring services.

The Arlo Secure plan is designed for those who want basic video recording and smart notifications. This plan typically includes 30 days of video history, allowing you to review past events and incidents. It also offers person, vehicle, and package detection, reducing the number of false alerts you receive. For example, the system can distinguish between a person walking by and a car pulling into your driveway, ensuring you only receive relevant notifications. Arlo Secure is a cost-effective option for users who want reliable video storage and intelligent alerts without the higher cost of more advanced plans.

Arlo Secure Plus is the next tier, offering everything in the Arlo Secure plan, plus 4K video recording and an emergency response feature. The 4K video provides clearer and more detailed footage, which can be crucial for identifying faces or license plates. The emergency response feature allows you to quickly contact emergency services through the Arlo app, providing an added layer of security. This plan is ideal for users who want the highest video quality and additional safety features. Arlo Secure Plus ensures that you have the best possible evidence in case of a security incident, along with the ability to quickly call for help if needed.

Arlo also offers bundled plans that include professional monitoring services. These plans provide 24/7 monitoring by trained security professionals who can respond to alarms and contact emergency services on your behalf. Professional monitoring adds an extra layer of security, especially for those who travel frequently or want the peace of mind that comes with knowing their home is always being watched. These bundled plans often include additional features such as cellular backup, ensuring your system stays online even during a power outage. While these plans are more expensive, they offer the most comprehensive protection for your home.

Arlo Subscription Costs in the UK

In the UK, Arlo subscription costs vary depending on the plan you choose and the number of cameras you want to cover. Arlo typically charges a monthly or annual fee for its subscription services, and opting for an annual subscription can often save you money compared to paying monthly.

As of 2024, the Arlo Secure plan typically costs around £2.79 per month for a single camera or £8.99 per month for unlimited cameras. This plan includes 30-day video history, person/vehicle/package detection, and customizable activity zones. For those who prefer an annual subscription, the cost is approximately £27.99 for a single camera or £89.99 for unlimited cameras. The annual subscription offers a significant discount compared to the monthly option, making it a more economical choice for long-term users. With Arlo Secure, you can monitor your home with reliable video storage and intelligent alerts, ensuring you stay informed about any activity around your property.

The Arlo Secure Plus plan, which includes 4K video recording and emergency response, costs around £11.99 per month. This plan provides enhanced video quality and additional safety features, making it ideal for users who want the best possible protection. Arlo Secure Plus does not offer an unlimited camera option. For an annual subscription, the cost is approximately £119.99. While this plan is more expensive, the enhanced features and higher video quality provide significant benefits, especially in terms of identifying details in recorded footage. The emergency response feature adds an extra layer of security, allowing you to quickly contact emergency services through the Arlo app in case of a security incident.

It's important to note that Arlo may occasionally offer promotional discounts or special deals on its subscription plans, so it's worth checking the Arlo website or authorized retailers for the latest pricing information. These promotions can significantly reduce the cost of your subscription, making it an even more attractive option. Keep an eye out for seasonal discounts or bundled offers that can provide additional value. By staying informed about the latest deals, you can ensure you're getting the best possible price for your Arlo subscription.

Factors Affecting Arlo Subscription Costs

Several factors can affect your Arlo subscription costs. The number of cameras you have, the specific features you need, and whether you choose a monthly or annual subscription all play a role in determining the final price.

The number of cameras you have is one of the most significant factors affecting the cost. Arlo's subscription plans are typically priced based on the number of cameras covered, with options for single cameras, multiple cameras, or unlimited cameras. If you have a larger property or want to monitor multiple areas, you'll likely need more cameras, which will increase your subscription cost. However, the unlimited camera option in the Arlo Secure plan can be a cost-effective solution for those with numerous cameras. By consolidating your cameras under a single plan, you can avoid paying individual subscription fees for each device.

The specific features you need also influence the cost. Arlo offers various features, such as 4K video recording, smart detection, and emergency response, which are included in different subscription tiers. If you require advanced features like 4K video for clearer footage or emergency response for added security, you'll need to choose a higher-tier plan, which will come with a higher monthly or annual fee. Consider your specific security needs and choose a plan that offers the features most important to you. This will help you balance cost and functionality, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.

Whether you choose a monthly or annual subscription can also impact the overall cost. Arlo typically offers discounts for annual subscriptions, which can save you a significant amount of money compared to paying monthly. If you plan to use Arlo's subscription services long-term, opting for an annual subscription is generally more economical. This not only reduces the overall cost but also provides the convenience of a single annual payment. Consider your budget and long-term plans when deciding between a monthly or annual subscription. If you're committed to using Arlo's services for an extended period, the annual subscription is the way to go.

Arlo Doorbell Alternatives

While Arlo is a popular choice, several Arlo doorbell alternatives are available in the UK. These alternatives offer different features, subscription plans, and price points, so it's worth exploring your options before making a final decision.

Ring doorbells are a prominent alternative to Arlo, offering a range of features and subscription options. Ring's Protect plans provide video recording, smart notifications, and professional monitoring services. The basic Ring Protect plan is competitively priced and offers similar features to Arlo Secure. Ring doorbells are known for their ease of use and integration with other smart home devices, making them a popular choice for many users. Consider Ring if you're looking for a reliable and user-friendly alternative to Arlo, with a wide range of compatible devices and services.

Nest doorbells are another strong contender, known for their advanced features and integration with the Google ecosystem. Nest Aware subscriptions provide video history, intelligent alerts, and facial recognition capabilities. Nest doorbells offer seamless integration with Google Home devices, allowing you to control your doorbell and view footage through your Google Home app. While Nest subscriptions can be slightly more expensive than Arlo's, the advanced features and integration with Google services make them a worthwhile option for users already invested in the Google ecosystem.

Eufy doorbells offer a unique approach by providing local storage options, eliminating the need for a monthly subscription in many cases. Eufy doorbells store video footage directly on the device or a local storage hub, giving you complete control over your data. While Eufy does offer cloud storage plans for additional features, the local storage option makes it an attractive choice for users concerned about privacy and subscription costs. If you're looking for a doorbell that doesn't require a monthly fee and prioritizes data privacy, Eufy is an excellent alternative to consider.

Conclusion

Understanding the Arlo doorbell subscription costs in the UK is essential for making an informed decision. By evaluating the different subscription plans, considering the factors that affect the cost, and exploring alternative options, you can find the best smart doorbell solution for your home security needs. Whether you choose Arlo or another brand, a smart doorbell can provide peace of mind and enhance the safety of your property.

Choosing the right Arlo subscription plan depends on your specific needs and budget. If you need basic video recording and smart notifications, the Arlo Secure plan is a cost-effective option. For enhanced video quality and additional security features, the Arlo Secure Plus plan is a better choice. And if you want comprehensive protection with 24/7 professional monitoring, consider one of Arlo's bundled plans. By carefully evaluating your options and considering your long-term needs, you can find the perfect Arlo subscription plan to keep your home safe and secure.