Arlo Pro 3 vs Arlo Ultra: Which One is the Best?
Two new Arlos have recently dropped – the Arlo Pro 3, and the Arlo Ultra – and both offer added features that previous models were lacking. Not only do they offer high-quality recording – the ‘Ultra’ offering 4K, and the ‘Pro 3’ offering 2K HDR – both offer some fantastic added features to make a recording, editing and producing videos with Arlo better than ever before. But deciding the buy an Arlo is one thing, deciding which Arlo to buy out of the two of them is another thing altogether. This article will act as a guide, going through the differences, cost, features, and whatever else, essentially pitting the Arlo Pro 3 vs Ultra. So, if you’ve considered picking one up, read on to find out which one is best for you! Also, read our ultimate smart outdoor camera comparison which includes some other brands.
Related: Arlo Ultra vs Nest Cam IQ
Contents
Arlo Pro 3 vs Arlo Ultra Comparison Table
| Model | Arlo Ultra | Arlo Pro 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Design |  |  |
| Wireless | ✔ | ✔ |
| Live Stream | ✔ | ✔ |
| Two-Way talk | ✔ | ✔ |
| Resolution | 4K | 2K |
| Field of View | 180° | 160° |
| Night Vision | Color | Color |
| LED Spotlight | ✔ | ✔ |
| Siren on Base Station | ||
| Siren on Camera | ✔ | ✔ |
| Smart Recognition Subscription | Arlo Smart | Arlo Smart |
| Bottom Line | Best Outdoor Camera | Second Best Outdoor Camera |
| Availability | Check Price | Check Price |
1. Arlo Pro 3 Overview
The Arlo Pro 3 camera, put simply, is the next step up from the previous model, the Arlo Pro 2. As you’d expect with an upgrade like this, the Pro 3 has better quality than the Pro 2, now with the ability to capture footage in 2K HDR. It has motion detection, audio detection, and with a speaker and LED light, it’s got you covered in all sorts of environments and scenarios. Not only this but for those wanting to capture all of the action, it hosts a wider lens at 160 degrees Field of View, making sure none of the action is missed.
In terms of new features, it has a unibody design, as well as an internal battery that can be charged wirelessly through the use of a magnetic connector, rather than a traditional cable. This makes keeping the Arlo charged, both easier and faster. The Pro 3 also has color night vision. There are two video storage options; on the cloud or local storage.
As well as the enhanced image quality and great ease of use, the straightforward app makes controlling and monitoring the video footage simple and easy. For those who don’t mind shedding out a bit more cash – as the Arlo Pro 3 doesn’t come cheap to begin with – for a small monthly fee, you’ll gain access to added features, to make your usage more thorough. For those who have been desperate for an upgrade to the Arlo Pro 2, it seems like the Arlo Pro 3 is a worthwhile addition, and unlikely to disappoint.
Pros
- Wire-free camera for easy installation
- Waterproof, for using year-round
- Excellent quality 2K footage
- A.I. features included
- Simple and straightforward to use
- Easy and simple to upgrade
- Two-Way Audio
- Arlo app
- Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons
- Occasionally has performance issues
- Added features cost extra
- Wire-free and weather-resistant design, works with...
- 2K video with HDR: Zoom in on objects and see clearer...
- Color night vision: See what’s lurking with color...
2. Arlo Ultra Overview
There’s no doubt about it – the Ultra is top of the range when it comes to cameras of its kind. Not only does it feature a built-in speaker and microphone, for added security and safety, but it records incredible 4K video as standard. With a whopping 180-degree Field of View, it trumps any of the competition, and at that quality, nothing will be missed. With a built-in security light, motion detector, and night vision, there’s nothing that can escape its view, and it really can act as an all-seeing eye.
There are some added features available if you purchase a Premium Subscription. This will put you back $1.99 a month, but also allows you to store your stunning 4K footage on the cloud, rather than saving it to an SD card as standard. You’ll also need to get yourself a ‘SmartHub’ if you’re looking to get more cameras hooked up to your system. Just like with the Pro 3, there are cloud storage as well as local storage options.
The Ultra really beats out any competitors in the outdoor security camera market, as it’s an almost-perfect overall package of quality, features, and reliability. As you could imagine, the Ultra doesn’t come with a low-price tag, but for what it offers, it was never going to. If you’ve got a budget that allows, consider picking one up, and there’s really nothing that can compare.
Pros
- Incredible 4K HDR video quality
- Features include night vision, motion detective and built-in speaker
- Easy to install and mount
- Compatible with other Arlo products
- Arlo app
- Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
- Two-Way Audio
Cons
- Hefty price tag
- Subscription required for added features
- UHD video quality - Zoom in to see sharp details with...
- 180 Degree diagonal field of view - See more with a...
- Enhanced night vision - See what’s lurking with color...
What About the Arlo Smart Subscription?
The ‘Arlo Smart’ subscription – Arlo’s cloud storage system which comes with some more added features as well – comes free of charge for three months when you buy an Arlo Pro 3. Arlo does have 7 days of free cloud storage, so any vital footage never gets missed or lost. This can make a world of difference if you have security issues that require further action. These videos can be viewed within the Arlo app.
As for the Ultra, it includes a year’s subscription of ‘Arlo Smart Premier’, which is usually $99 a year. This has all the same features as Arlo Smart, but rather than 7 days, you get 30 days of cloud storage, which covers you when you’re away from home for over a week, or in case you miss anything and need to look back. Compared to other cloud storage plans, these two bode pretty well – especially considering the price!
Final Word
All in all, both the Ultra and Arlo Pro 3 are fantastic editions to any home security system. Both offer excellent quality video recording, versatile and straightforward storage solutions, and are well worth the price tag provided that they’re used for long enough to get your money’s worth. When it comes to the debate, however, of ‘Arlo Pro 3 vs Arlo Ultra’ it all depends on what you’re looking for, and how much you’re willing to stretch your budget.
The Arlo Pro 3 is a good run-of-the-mill product that provides the basics well. Security cameras don’t always need ultra-high quality, so this is likely to do the job well enough. As well as this, for any owners of the Arlo Pro or Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3 is a significant step up – so if you were happy with the first two, you’re likely to be more than satisfied with this one.
As for the Ultra, it might seem like overkill to many, but the added features can give you that extra peace of mind that your home is covered, regardless of what happens. With stunning 4K HDR resolution, cloud and local storage solutions, and a great reputation from customers, if you’ve got the cash, it’s probably worth stretching for the Ultra – the ultimate home security camera. Check out another brand with our comparison of the Google Nest Cam and Nest Cam IQ.
FAQ
In this section, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions in regards to the Arlo Pro 3, Arlo Ultra and how they compare against each other.
What is the difference between the Arlo Pro 3 and Ultra?
The Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Ultra have a few differences which make the Ultra a superior camera, although these differences are not huge. Included in the differences are:
- The first difference is that the Ultra is higher resolution as it records in 4K whilst the Arlo Pro 3 records in 2K.
- The second difference is that the Ultra has a Field of View of 180° whilst the Arlo Pro has a FoV of 160°.
- The third difference is that theUltra is more expensive.
Which Arlo system is the best?
The Arlo Ultra is the best smart outdoor camera from Arlo when it comes to comparing the features. It is the highest spec model out of the whole lot when it comes to resolution, FoV as well as having the best of other features too, such as a siren on the camera and Color Night Vision.
How long do the Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Ultra batteries last?
Both the Arlo Pro 3 and the Arlo Ultra have batteries that last for 3 to 6 months depending on many factors.
Do the Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Ultra require a paid subscription?
If you wish to record in 2K or 4K resolution, use advanced object detection, create cloud activity zones as well as some of the other features, you need an Arlo Smart subscription. The Arlo Pro 3 and Ultra come with a free trial but once that ends you must purchase a paid plan. There isn’t much point of having the Pro 3 or Ultra unless you are using these features and therefore there is no point in purchasing them unless you plan to pay for Arlo Smart. There is free cloud storage for 7 days. However, it is highly recommended you pay for additional cloud storage for 30 days if you’re not using local storage.
Is the Arlo Ultra worth the money?
The Ultra is worth paying extra for if your budget is of no issue. In reality, when it comes down to achieving the same end result, the Pro 3 (or in fact the older models too), will still achieve the end result of surveillance, alerts and storing footage. They do have many of the same features as well, color night vision and a siren as an example.
Does Arlo have voice control?
Yes, Arlo has voice control that works with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This can be setup through the Arlo app, with the relevant skills.
