Netgear’s Arlo is one of our favourite security cameras for two reasons — it’s entirely wireless, and entirely rain-proof. Now there’s an upgraded version called the Arlo Pro, with two-way audio and a wider field of view, as well as all the original’s weatherproofing and HD video recording.
The Arlo Pro has a new RGB-IR sensor that improves its night vision sensitivity, allowing for what Netgear calls a clear video “even in total darkness” — without any hot-spots in the video lit up by infrared LEDs. It still captures HD quality video at 1280x720pixels, with a 130-degree wide-angle lens; anything further than about 60cm from that lens should be in crisp focus too.
The Arlo Pro’s 2440mAh rechargeable battery should last for upwards of three months on a regular charge like the original, but the newest version adds quick charging that means your cameras are out of action for a shorter time while recharging. Alternatively a new battery recharging station lets you keep two extras topped off for an instant swap-out.
The big difference, though, is that the Arlo Pro now supports two-way audio, so you can use the camera to talk to whoever might be at your front door or in the process of trying to break into your house. Despite the camera’s small size, it also hides away a 100+ decibel siren that should do a pretty good job of scaring the hell out of whoever it’s aimed at.
The upgraded version of the Arlo Pro will set you back $499 for a single-camera kit and wireless base station that you’ll need to plug into your router. Additional cameras are $349 each, and if you want to stealth them up a bit you can also sheath them in black silicone skins.
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[referenced url=”https://gizmodo.com.au/2015/04/netgear-arlo-australian-review/” thumb=”https://gizmodo.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/SAM_2666-410×231.jpg” title=”Netgear Arlo: Australian Review” excerpt=”Home security cameras are frustrating. Dealing with all that wiring, hooking everything up, and then storing it all on a hard drive inside your house. The Netgear Arlo is an entirely wireless, ‘net-connected security system — which means you can mount those little cameras anywhere.”]