Smart video doorbells have transformed from simple notification devices into sophisticated home security hubs. As we compare the Ring Wired Doorbell Plus ($149.99) and Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation ($79.99), we'll explore how these devices protect your home while keeping you connected to visitors.
Both doorbells use HD cameras with advanced features like motion detection and two-way audio, but they approach these capabilities differently. The core technology involves combining a traditional doorbell with a high-resolution camera, microphone, speaker, and internet connectivity to create a complete monitoring solution.
The Ring Doorbell Plus offers 1536p HD video with a specialized 150-degree field of view. What this means in practice is you'll see a head-to-toe view of visitors, which is particularly useful for package detection. The color night vision – a standout feature – uses advanced sensors to maintain color accuracy even in low light conditions, rather than switching to traditional black-and-white infrared imaging.
The Arlo Doorbell counters with impressive 2K resolution (1536x1536 pixels) and HDR (High Dynamic Range) capability. HDR combines multiple exposures to show detail in both bright and shadowy areas simultaneously – particularly useful when visitors are backlit by bright sunlight. However, it uses standard night vision without color.
Real-world performance shows the Arlo has a slight edge in daytime clarity, while Ring performs better in low-light situations. The difference in resolution is barely noticeable in normal use, as both provide more than enough detail for security purposes.
A critical difference between these models lies in their installation requirements. The Ring offers both wired and wireless options, making it more versatile for different home setups. If you're replacing an existing doorbell, the wired installation takes about 15 minutes and requires a compatible transformer (16-24 VAC). The wireless option uses a rechargeable battery that typically lasts 3-6 months.
The Arlo must be hardwired, which provides reliable power but limits installation flexibility. This requirement might necessitate professional installation for homes without existing doorbell wiring, adding to the total cost despite its lower initial price.
Ring's ecosystem has matured significantly since its 2018 acquisition by Amazon. The Ring Doorbell Plus works seamlessly with:
This broad compatibility allows for sophisticated automations, like turning on lights when motion is detected or displaying the doorbell feed on your TV through an Echo Show.
The Arlo Doorbell offers more limited integration, primarily working with Alexa unless you purchase additional hub hardware. This limitation might be significant if you're invested in Google or Apple's ecosystem.
Both doorbells have implemented innovative features since their release:
Ring's Notable Features:
Arlo's Standout Capabilities:
Both devices require subscription plans for advanced features:
Ring Protect Plans:
Arlo Smart Plans:
Day-to-Day Usage: The Ring excels in reliability and consistent performance. Its dual-band WiFi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) provides more stable connectivity, especially in homes with many wireless devices. The noise cancellation feature noticeably improves two-way communications, filtering out street noise and wind.
The Arlo's higher resolution shines in bright conditions, and its built-in siren provides an extra security element. However, its single-band WiFi (2.4GHz only) may result in occasional connectivity issues in WiFi-dense environments.
Weather Resistance: Both devices handle weather well, operating in temperatures from -5°F to 120°F. The Ring's build quality feels slightly more premium, with better water resistance ratings.
Initial Purchase:
Additional Costs to Consider:
Both companies regularly update their devices' firmware, adding features and improving performance. Ring's commitment to software updates extends at least four years after the last sale date. Arlo's update policy is less clearly defined but has historically provided good support.
The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus represents the premium option, offering more features and better ecosystem integration at a higher price point. The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation provides excellent core functionality at a more attractive initial price, though with some limitations in smart home integration and installation flexibility.
For most users, the Ring's broader compatibility and superior night vision justify its higher price, especially if you're already invested in smart home technology. However, the Arlo remains a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize daytime video quality and don't need extensive smart home integration.
| Ring Wired Doorbell Plus | Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen |
|---|---|
| Resolution - Impacts ability to identify faces and read packages | |
| 1536p HD with head-to-toe view | 2K (1536x1536) with HDR |
| Field of View - Determines how much of your porch you can see | |
| 150° horizontal, optimized for doorway view | 180° wide-angle view |
| Night Vision - Critical for security after dark | |
| Color night vision with enhanced clarity | Standard black & white IR night vision |
| Power Options - Affects installation flexibility | |
| Both wired and wireless options available | Hardwired installation only |
| Smart Home Integration - Important for automation and viewing options | |
| Works with Alexa, Google, HomeKit, SmartThings | Alexa only (without additional hub) |
| WiFi Connectivity - Impacts video stability and range | |
| Dual-band (2.4GHz & 5GHz) | Single-band (2.4GHz only) |
| Advanced Features - Extra security and convenience | |
| Noise cancellation, pre-roll video, quick replies | Built-in siren, direct-to-mobile calls, package detection |
| Operating Temperature - Ensures year-round reliability | |
| -5°F to 120°F | -4°F to 122°F |
| Price - Initial investment | |
| $149.99 | $79.99 |
| Subscription Costs - Required for advanced features | |
| Starts at $3.99/month (Ring Protect) | Starts at $2.99/month (Arlo Smart) |
The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation offers slightly better daytime video quality with 2K HDR resolution, while the Ring Wired Doorbell Plus excels in low-light conditions with color night vision. Both provide excellent clarity for security purposes.
The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus costs $149.99, while the Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation is more affordable at $79.99. However, both require monthly subscriptions for advanced features.
The Ring Doorbell Plus integrates better with home theater setups through Alexa, allowing you to view doorbell footage on your TV via Fire TV devices or Echo Show. The Arlo Doorbell has more limited display options.
The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus offers broader compatibility, working with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and SmartThings. The Arlo Video Doorbell primarily works with Alexa unless you purchase additional hardware.
The Ring Doorbell Plus offers both DIY wireless and wired options, while the Arlo Doorbell requires hardwired installation, which might need professional help if you don't have existing doorbell wiring.
The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus features superior color night vision, while the Arlo Video Doorbell uses standard black-and-white infrared night vision.
Ring Protect starts at $3.99/month for the Ring Doorbell Plus, while Arlo Smart costs $2.99/month for the Arlo Doorbell. Both subscriptions are required for advanced features.
The Ring Doorbell Plus easily displays on TVs through Fire TV devices or Echo Show, while the Arlo Doorbell requires additional hardware for TV viewing.
Both offer advanced motion detection, but the Ring Doorbell Plus provides more customizable motion zones and pre-roll video capture. The Arlo Doorbell includes package detection in its basic features.
Both the Ring Doorbell Plus and Arlo Video Doorbell are weather-resistant and operate in temperatures from approximately -5°F to 120°F.
The Ring Wired Doorbell Plus offers more stable connectivity with dual-band WiFi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), while the Arlo Video Doorbell only supports 2.4GHz.
The Ring Doorbell Plus is the better choice for home theater integration, offering more display options and better compatibility with streaming devices and smart displays compared to the Arlo Video Doorbell.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: blackwiredesigns.com - homedepot.com - ring.com - ring.com - youtube.com - de-de.ring.com - ring.com - youtube.com - security.org - arlo.com - bestbuy.com - androidcentral.com - arlo.com - community.arlo.com - youtube.com - community.arlo.com - community.arlo.com - arlo.com - t-mobile.com - youtube.com
