Summary
- The Arlo Pro 4 has a built-in siren to deter intruders, while the Nest Outdoor features a spotlight for improved visibility at night.
- The Arlo Pro 4 runs on a rechargeable battery, providing up to six months of battery life on a single charge.
- While the Google Nest Outdoor is a capable device in its own right, the Arlo Pro 4’s overall performance and value make it the clear winner.
In the realm of outdoor security cameras, two formidable contenders emerge: the Arlo Pro 4 and the Google Nest Outdoor. Both devices offer impressive features and capabilities, making it crucial to delve into their strengths and weaknesses to determine which camera reigns supreme.
Image Quality
Arlo Pro 4
- 2K HDR resolution
- Color night vision
- 160-degree field of view
Google Nest Outdoor
- 1080p HDR resolution
- Black and white night vision
- 130-degree field of view
The Arlo Pro 4 boasts a higher resolution (2K) compared to the Nest Outdoor (1080p), providing sharper and more detailed images. Additionally, the Pro 4’s color night vision allows for vibrant images even in low-light conditions, while the Nest Outdoor’s night vision is limited to black and white. However, the Nest Outdoor has a narrower field of view, capturing a smaller area than the Arlo Pro 4.
Connectivity
Arlo Pro 4
- Wi-Fi or Ethernet
- Local storage (microSD card)
- Cloud storage subscription required
Google Nest Outdoor
- Wi-Fi only
- Cloud storage subscription required
Both cameras connect via Wi-Fi, but the Arlo Pro 4 also supports Ethernet for a more stable connection. Additionally, the Pro 4 offers local storage via a microSD card, while the Nest Outdoor requires a cloud storage subscription.
Features
Arlo Pro 4
- Smart siren
- Two-way audio
- Activity zones
- Person, animal, and vehicle detection
Google Nest Outdoor
- Built-in spotlight
- Two-way audio
- Activity zones
- Person detection
The Arlo Pro 4 has a built-in siren to deter intruders, while the Nest Outdoor features a spotlight for improved visibility at night. Both cameras offer two-way audio, enabling communication with visitors or potential threats. The Arlo Pro 4 provides more advanced detection capabilities, including animal and vehicle detection, while the Nest Outdoor focuses primarily on person detection.
Battery Life
Arlo Pro 4
- Rechargeable battery
- Up to 6 months of battery life (on a single charge)
Google Nest Outdoor
- Wired power
- No battery life concerns
The Arlo Pro 4 runs on a rechargeable battery, providing up to six months of battery life on a single charge. This makes it ideal for areas where wired power is not readily available. The Nest Outdoor, on the other hand, requires a constant wired power connection, eliminating battery life concerns.
Price
Arlo Pro 4
- Single camera: $199.99
- Two-camera kit: $399.99
- Three-camera kit: $599.99
Google Nest Outdoor
- Single camera: $199.99
The Arlo Pro 4 and Google Nest Outdoor are priced similarly for a single camera. However, the Arlo Pro 4 offers multi-camera kits at a discounted price, making it more cost-effective for larger installations.
Which Camera is Right for You?
Choosing between the Arlo Pro 4 and Google Nest Outdoor depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality, advanced detection capabilities, and battery life, the Arlo Pro 4 is the superior choice. However, if you prefer a wired solution with built-in lighting and a more affordable price point, the Google Nest Outdoor is a solid option.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations
Ease of Installation: Both cameras are relatively easy to install, with the Nest Outdoor being slightly simpler due to its wired nature.
Smart Home Compatibility: The Arlo Pro 4 is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, while the Nest Outdoor works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
Cloud Storage Costs: The Arlo Pro 4 requires a cloud storage subscription, which starts at $2.99 per month for basic storage. The Nest Outdoor also requires a subscription, starting at $6 per month for 30 days of event-based storage.
The Bottom Line: The Arlo Pro 4 Emerges Victorious
After a comprehensive comparison, the Arlo Pro 4 emerges as the superior outdoor security camera. Its impressive image quality, advanced features, and long battery life make it an ideal choice for those seeking the best possible protection for their homes. While the Google Nest Outdoor is a capable device in its own right, the Arlo Pro 4’s overall performance and value make it the clear winner.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use the Arlo Pro 4 without a cloud storage subscription?
A: No, the Arlo Pro 4 requires a cloud storage subscription to store and access recorded footage.
Q: Does the Google Nest Outdoor have a motion sensor?
A: Yes, the Google Nest Outdoor has a built-in motion sensor that triggers recording when it detects movement.
Q: Can I connect the Arlo Pro 4 to my existing security system?
A: Yes, the Arlo Pro 4 can be integrated with select security systems via IFTTT or third-party apps.