Arlo Pro 3 vs Pro 4 (2021): How Are These Wireless Security Cameras Different?

If you’re in the market for a home security camera, then chances are you’ve heard about Arlo. The company’s Pro lineup is a favorite among customers. Reasonably priced and feature-packed, the Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Pro 4 wireless cameras are two of its leading mid-range models. A quick look at devices, however, can be confusing. They look similar after all. Even the specs are the same. So what’s the difference? Beyond appearances, the Pro 4 offers new connectivity support that might draw you to it over the Pro 3. To know more, check out our review below.

Arlo Pro 3 vs Pro 4 Security Cameras Comparison Chart

Design

The Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 sport the same design, hardware, and mounting options.

The Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 have the same camera design and hardware. Both are well-built devices that sport an oval form enclosed in a white shell. Their faceplate, on the other hand, is black. If you’re not a fan of this combination, an all-black model is available, too. Meanwhile, on the sides, a minimalist Arlo logo has been placed. This simplicity disguises the fact both cameras are UV and weather-resistant, so outdoor installation is possible.

Measuring about 3.25 x 3.25 x 2 inches, the Arlo Pro 3 and 4 are the same size as the higher-end Arlo Ultra. Like their predecessors, the cameras are seamlessly integrated into the faceplate. Above the lens, you’ll find the microphone, while below the lens you’ll see the speaker. On the top edge of the Arlo Pro 3 and 4, on the other hand, is a 6500k spotlight for night vision mode.

There are two options for installation. Users can mount the camera on the wall via screw-in brackets. Both the Arlo Pro 3 and 4 will come with a threaded hole at its bottom. The other option is through a magnetic mount. For convenience, Arlo shares the Pro 3 and 4 cameras also have a catch. Homeowners can press this feature if they want to remove the camera unit from the shell without taking it off from the mount.

Features

The Arlo Pro 3 and 4 share the same features and offer similar audio and video qualities.

Just like in their design, the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 have identical features. On both, you’re getting a 4MP camera with a max 2560 x 1440 video resolution. Their video capabilities also support HDR, auto-track, and 12x digital zoom. Meanwhile, the 160-degree field of view offers ultra-wide coverage of a monitored area. In low light conditions, the two devices rely on the same high-powered infrared LEDs for full-color night vision as well.

Arlo’s Pro 3 and 4 are equipped with full-duplex, two-way audio. Homeowners also benefit from a built-in 80db siren, great for warding off unwelcome visitors. Since these are wireless cameras, you’re getting rechargeable batteries. According to Arlo, the Pro 3’s battery life is rated to last between three to six months. The Arlo Pro 4 battery life, on the other hand, is about six months.

Out of the box, the Arlo Pro 3 and 4 supports live video streaming and motion notifications. They also enjoy integrations with smart home platforms, including Apple HomeKit, Google, Alexa, and SmartThings. To access other advanced features, however, you will need to subscribe to an Arlo Secure Plan.

Video and Audio Quality

With the Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4, you can choose from 2K, 1080p, or 720p video modes. While they don’t go as high as the 4K on Arlo Ultra, the 2K option already offers impressive image and video quality. Homeowners will find both cameras record well-exposed videos with good color. The resolution limit, however, is noticeable in the not-so-crisp details of recordings.

Night vision mode, though not outstanding, also does the job. Plus, users can set up the camera spotlight to be always on or to only power up when the Pro 3 or 4 senses motion.

In terms of audio quality, Arlo’s mid-range security cameras perform reasonably well. You’re getting full-duplex audio here, so you can speak and be heard simultaneously. The single microphones are also equipped with noise and echo cancellation. Overall, you’ll find the Pro 3 and Pro 4 deliver audible sound, although not necessarily the loudest.

Ease of Use and Accessories

The Arlo Pro 4 setup is faster since it does away with the required SmartHub component of the Arlo Pro 3.

Both the Arlo Pro 3 and 4 are fairly easy to use and manage. Installation is also a breeze, thanks to the fact they’re wireless. As mentioned in the design, the cameras come with two mounting options. The biggest difference between the two, however, is in their connectivity. Arlo’s Pro 3 requires an Arlo SmartHub to connect to your home’s Internet. The Arlo Pro 4 does away with this extra component, making it faster to set up.

Outside of the SmartHub, the Arlo Pro 3 and 4 have several accessories in common. Users, for instance, can get their hands on Arlo’s solar panel charger. Ideal for outdoor installations, the panel also ensures your camera’s battery is continuously charged with direct sunlight.

Other accessories include a dual-charging station, so you’ll always have a spare battery. There are also housing components, indoor power adaptors, and the optional magnetic charging cable.

Bundles and Subscription

The Arlo Pro 3 and 4 are available either as add-on cameras or as kits. In addition, the Arlo Pro 3 kits will include the required SmartHub.

Arlo’s Pro cameras are typically available as a single unit (add-on) or as kits. The Arlo Pro 3 standalone unit, however, doesn’t include the SmartHub. If you’re purchasing it separately, you’ll end up spending more compared to just getting the Arlo Pro 4 add-on. To save on money, Arlo recommends interested buyers get the Camera + SmartHub bundles instead. Below, you’ll find a list of the kits for both the Arlo Pro 3 and 4.

Arlo Pro 3 Options

Arlo Pro 4 Options

Subscripton Plans

As mentioned in the Features section, several advanced features for the Arlo Pro 3 and 4 are available only with a paid plan. For every purchase of the camera, however, users will already get an Arlo Secure 3-month trial. This opens up access to 30-day video storage, animated previews, and intelligent notifications among others.

Once the trial ends, you can choose not to renew, stay with your regular Secure plan, or upgrade to Arlo Secure Plus. Arlo Secure Plus adds Emergency Response on top of the standard features you get from Arlo Secure. You can check the pricing of these plans here.

Verdict

Existing Arlo Pro 3 users have no reason to upgrade to the Arlo Pro 4. If you’re looking for an entry model to the Arlo ecosystem, however, the Pro 4 is a better option.

The Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Pro 4 virtually have identical designs and features. Both work with the same companion app, too. Even when it comes to subscription plans, neither device pose a noticeable edge. Perhaps the Pro 4’s only difference is that it connects directly to your Wi-Fi, doing away with the SmartHub.

If you already own the Arlo Pro 3, it’s hard to justify replacing your camera with the Pro 4. The SmartHub also adds the advantage of providing local storage, so take that into consideration. If you’re getting an Arlo camera for the first time, then opt for the Pro 4. Because it doesn’t need a hub, it’s easier to set up. Just be prepared to shell out extra for cloud storage.

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