Versatile 1080p security camera with Wi–Fi and 4G LTE support
Most security cameras use Wi–Fi to connect to your home or office network, so that they can send you alerts or upload video recordings to be stored online. Sometimes, though, Wi–Fi may not be available — perhaps in the event of a power outtage, or if you want to use your camera in an area such as as your yard or parking space, where the Wi–Fi isn’t very reliable.
That’s where the Arlo Go 2 comes in, as it can connect to your Wi–Fi network when that’s available, but also enables you to add a 4G LTE SIM card so that it can use cellular data when necessary. The $249.99 price tag makes it more expensive than many rival cameras that only use Wi–Fi — and, of course, you have to pay for the cellular data as well — but that 4G LTE option could be a very worthwhile investment for many people. The only drawback is that the Go 2 only supports the T-Mobile, Verizon and US Cellular networks in the US, so remember to check the compatibility info on the Arlo website before buying.
The chunky camera houses a large rechargeable battery, and Arlo quotes battery life of four months when using 4G LTE, or up to a year with Wi–Fi. It’s weather resistant for outdoor use, and Arlo includes a wall–mount kit so that you can fix it wherever you want. Getting started is very easy, as the camera can simply scan a QR code that is displayed by the Arlo app in order to connect to your Wi–Fi or 4G LTE network (although it is disappointing that the camera only supports 2.4GHz Wi–Fi).
The new Go 2 steps up from 720p to 1080p resolution, and although there’s a little “fish–eye” distortion the image quality is perfectly adequate for monitoring both indoor and outdoor locations. Other new features include a spotlight that allows the camera to record color video at night, and a siren that can be triggered automatically, or controlled manually through the app.
That combination of features is good value but, like many security cameras, the Go 2 requires an additional subscription to use some of its more advanced features. If you don’t have a subscription then the Go 2 can send you notifications, and enables you to stream live video on the app. The camera also has a slot for an SD memory card that lets you record video directly on the camera itself.
However, storing recordings online requires a monthly Arlo Secure subscription. There is a three–month trial included with the Go 2, but after that the subscription fees start at $2.99 per month for one camera, or $9.99 for unlimited cameras. That subscription also includes advanced features, such as the ability to recognize human faces and tell them apart from wandering pets or moving vehicles. It’s a shame, though, that the camera doesn’t support HomeKit, as that would enable you to save some money by using HomeKit Secure Video with your iCloud account.
Arlo Go 2 Features
1080p security camera; 2.4GHz Wi–Fi/4G LTE; siren, speaker, and mic; SD card slot; rechargeable battery; wall–mount kit
Arlo Go 2 Price
$249.99
It’s expensive, but the ability to use both Wi–Fi and 4G LTE makes the Go 2 a good option for locations where Wi–Fi may be unreliable.
Comments
Post a Comment