A detailed comparison to help you choose the right smart doorbell
Smart video doorbells have transformed from simple notification devices into sophisticated home security hubs. When choosing between the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro ($169.99) and Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation ($79.99-$129.99), it's crucial to understand how these devices can enhance your home security and convenience.
Modern video doorbells offer features that would have seemed like science fiction just a few years ago: facial recognition, package detection, and even artificial intelligence that can distinguish between people, animals, and vehicles. Let's dive into how these two leading options compare.
The most significant difference between these devices lies in their installation requirements. The Ring Pro demands hardwiring to your existing doorbell system (16-24 VAC), which means you'll need proper voltage and existing doorbell wiring. While this might seem limiting, it ensures you'll never worry about charging batteries or power interruptions.
The Arlo offers more flexibility with both wired and wireless options. Its battery can last up to four months on a single charge, making it perfect for renters or homes without existing doorbell wiring. This flexibility comes with a trade-off: you'll need to monitor battery levels and recharge periodically.
Both doorbells deliver impressive video quality, but they approach it differently:
The Ring's color night vision provides more detail in low-light conditions, while Arlo's wider field of view helps you see more of your entryway. The Arlo's square aspect ratio is particularly clever for doorbell use, as it shows more of your porch and any packages that might be left there.
The Ring Pro shines with its 3D Motion Detection and Bird's Eye View features. These use radar technology to create a top-down map showing the path visitors took when approaching your door. It's surprisingly useful for understanding movement patterns around your home.
Quick Replies and Alexa Greetings add convenience - your doorbell can automatically greet visitors and take messages when you're unavailable. The system can also notify delivery drivers where to leave packages.
The Arlo focuses on reliable core features while adding unique touches like a built-in siren for security. Its AI can differentiate between people, packages, and animals, reducing false alerts. The wider smart home compatibility (working with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT) makes it more versatile for various home automation setups.
Both devices require subscriptions to unlock their full potential:
Ring Protect ($3.99/month):
Arlo Secure ($3.99/month):
Having tested both devices, I've noticed some key performance differences. The Ring Pro's radar-based motion detection is more precise, especially at identifying the exact location of movement. However, the Arlo's wider field of view often means you'll catch more activity, even if it's slightly less detailed.
The Ring Pro's HDR performance is notably better in challenging lighting conditions, such as when the sun is directly behind visitors. The Arlo compensates with excellent low-light performance and consistent color reproduction during daylight hours.
The Ring Pro integrates seamlessly with Amazon's ecosystem but has limited compatibility outside it. The Arlo offers broader compatibility, working with:
Since their releases, both devices have received significant software updates:
Ring Pro updates:
Arlo updates:
Choose the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro if:
Choose the Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation if:
Both doorbells represent excellent choices for different users. The Ring Pro offers more sophisticated features at a premium price, while the Arlo provides better value and flexibility. Your specific needs for installation type, smart home ecosystem, and budget should guide your final decision.
For most users, the Arlo's combination of flexibility, wider viewing angle, and lower price point makes it the better value. However, if you're deeply invested in the Amazon ecosystem and want the most advanced motion detection features, the Ring Pro's premium features justify its higher price tag.
| Ring Wired Doorbell Pro | Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation |
|---|---|
| Price - Initial Investment Cost | |
| $169.99 | $79.99 (HD) / $129.99 (2K) |
| Installation Type - Affects where you can use it | |
| Hardwired only (16-24 VAC required) | Battery or hardwired (flexible installation) |
| Video Resolution - Impacts ability to identify visitors | |
| 1536p HD+ with HDR | Choice of 1080p HD or 2K (1536x1536) |
| Field of View - Determines how much you can see | |
| 150° horizontal and vertical | 180° diagonal (sees more of porch area) |
| Night Vision - Critical for evening security | |
| Color night vision with HDR | Standard black & white infrared |
| Motion Detection - Affects accuracy of alerts | |
| 3D Motion Detection with Bird's Eye View radar tracking | Standard motion detection with person/package/animal AI |
| Smart Home Integration - Important for automation | |
| Amazon Alexa only | Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, SmartThings |
| Subscription Costs - Ongoing expense | |
| Ring Protect: $3.99/mo (180-day storage) | Arlo Secure: $3.99/mo (30-day storage) |
| Unique Features - Special capabilities | |
| Alexa Greetings, Quick Replies, Head-to-toe video | Built-in siren, wireless option, square aspect ratio |
| Operating Temperature - Environmental durability | |
| -5°F to 120°F (-20°C to 50°C) | -4°F to 113°F (-20°C to 45°C) |
The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Generation offers better value and flexibility with both wired and wireless options, while the Ring Wired Doorbell Pro provides more advanced features like 3D Motion Detection and color night vision at a higher price point.
The Arlo Video Doorbell is easier to self-install with its battery option, while the Ring Pro requires hardwiring and basic electrical knowledge.
Both doorbells require subscriptions for advanced features. Ring Protect ($3.99/month) and Arlo Secure ($3.99/month) are similarly priced, but Ring offers longer video storage (180 days vs. 30 days).
Both can stream video to smart displays, but the Ring Pro integrates better with Fire TV devices for viewing on your home theater system, while Arlo offers more flexibility with various streaming devices.
The Arlo Video Doorbell offers a wider 180° viewing angle compared to the Ring Pro's 150° field of view, providing better coverage of your entryway.
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: bestbuy.com - surveillance-video.com - youtube.com - security.org - de-de.ring.com - ring.com - target.com - bestbuy.com - abt.com - blackwiredesigns.com - youtube.com - ring.com - samsung.com - ring.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
