Smart Video Doorbell Comparison: Reolink vs Arlo Essential in 2024

When it comes to keeping an eye on your front door, video doorbells have revolutionized home security. I've spent considerable time testing both the Reolink Smart Wi-Fi Video Doorbell Wired Chime ($89.99) and the Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell ($58.99), and there's quite a bit to unpack between these two popular options.

The Evolution of Video Doorbells

Video doorbells have come a long way since Ring first popularized the category. Today's devices offer impressive features like AI-powered detection, high-resolution video, and sophisticated integration with smart home systems. The most significant recent improvements have been in video quality, detection accuracy, and storage flexibility.

The Reolink doorbell, released in 2023, represents the newer generation with its 5-megapixel sensor and dual-band Wi-Fi support. Meanwhile, the Arlo Essential, launched in 2020, takes a different approach by focusing on ecosystem integration and specialized features like color night vision.

Video Quality Deep Dive

Resolution and Frame Rate

The Reolink's 2560x1920 resolution at 20fps provides noticeably more detail than the Arlo's 1536x1536 at 30fps. While both deliver clear images, the difference becomes apparent when you need to zoom in on details like package labels or faces. The higher resolution of the Reolink is particularly valuable for security purposes, though the Arlo's faster frame rate can make motion appear smoother.

Field of View

Both doorbells feature a 180-degree diagonal field of view, which means they can capture everything from packages on the ground to tall visitors. However, there's a subtle difference in how they handle this wide view:

• Reolink uses a 134° horizontal / 97° vertical split
• Arlo employs a more square 1:1 ratio

In practice, the Reolink's approach tends to provide more useful coverage of typical doorway scenarios, while minimizing fish-eye distortion at the edges.

Smart Features and Detection

Modern video doorbells use artificial intelligence (AI) to distinguish between different types of motion. Both devices handle this differently:

Detection Capabilities

The Reolink offers:

• Person detection
• Vehicle detection
• Package detection
• Customizable motion zones (areas where you want the camera to monitor for movement)

The Arlo provides:

• Person detection
• Package detection
• Animal detection
• Pre-recorded responses
• More sophisticated detection algorithms

The Arlo's longer market presence has allowed its detection algorithms to mature, resulting in fewer false alerts in my testing. However, the Reolink's newer hardware shows promise and continues to improve through firmware updates.

Night Vision and Low-Light Performance

This is where the Arlo Essential really shines (pun intended). Its color night vision provides more natural and detailed footage in low-light conditions. The Reolink uses traditional infrared (IR) LEDs, which work well but produce black-and-white footage. The difference is particularly noticeable when identifying clothing colors or vehicle details at night.

Connectivity and Storage Solutions

Network Performance

The Reolink's dual-band Wi-Fi support (2.4GHz and 5GHz) is a significant advantage, especially in areas with crowded 2.4GHz networks. The 5GHz band typically provides:

• Faster data transfer
• Lower latency
• Less interference
• More reliable video streaming

The Arlo's 2.4GHz-only connection can be limiting in dense urban environments where many Wi-Fi networks compete for bandwidth.

Storage Options

Storage approaches differ significantly:

Reolink:

• Local microSD storage (up to 256GB)
• Optional cloud storage
• NVR compatibility
• No required subscription

Arlo:

• Cloud storage only
• Subscription required for most features
• 30-day video history with subscription
• Higher long-term costs

The Reolink's flexible storage options make it more cost-effective over time, though the Arlo's cloud system offers easier access and automatic backup.

Smart Home Integration

The Arlo Essential excels in smart home compatibility:

• Works with Amazon Alexa
• Google Assistant support
• Apple HomeKit integration
• IFTTT compatibility

The Reolink doorbell offers more limited integration:

• Basic Alexa support
• Google Assistant compatibility
• No HomeKit support

For smart home enthusiasts, this could be a deciding factor.

Installation and Power Requirements

Both doorbells require hardwired installation:

• Reolink: 12-24VAC 50/60Hz, DC 24V
• Arlo: 16-24VAC

The Reolink's broader voltage range makes it more flexible for different transformer setups, though both will work with most standard doorbell transformers.

Real-World Performance

In daily use, both doorbells perform their core functions well, but each has distinct advantages:

Reolink strengths:

• Sharper daytime video
• More flexible storage options
• No subscription required
• Better wireless performance

Arlo strengths:

• Superior night vision
• More mature detection system
• Better smart home integration
• More polished app experience

Cost Considerations

Initial purchase price is just part of the equation:

Reolink total cost:

• $89.99 initial purchase
• Optional cloud storage
• No required ongoing costs

Arlo total cost:

• $58.99 initial purchase
• Required subscription ($3-$15/month)
• Higher long-term investment

How to Decide

Choose the Reolink if:

• Video quality is your top priority
• You want to avoid subscription fees
• Local storage is important
• You have a crowded Wi-Fi environment
• You're looking for the best long-term value

Choose the Arlo if:

• Smart home integration is crucial
• You want color night vision
• You're already in the Arlo ecosystem
• You prefer cloud storage
• You want the most mature detection system

Final Thoughts

After extensive testing, both doorbells prove capable performers, but they target slightly different users. The Reolink Smart Wi-Fi Video Doorbell represents excellent value with its superior hardware specs and flexible storage options. The Arlo Essential counters with better smart home integration and more refined software features.

For most users, I recommend the Reolink for its better long-term value and higher resolution. However, if you're deeply invested in smart home automation or need color night vision, the Arlo remains a compelling choice despite its subscription requirement.

Remember to consider your specific needs, environment, and existing smart home setup when making your decision. Either way, both options represent significant upgrades over traditional doorbells and will enhance your home's security and convenience.

Reolink Smart Wi-Fi Video Doorbell Wired Chime Deals and Prices

Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell Deals and Prices