Updated November 2026
Data from the official Aqara and Arlo sites.
2026 verdict
Looking for the stronger security camera between the Aqara Camera E1 and the Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor)?
The Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) takes the win, ahead on price, rating, weather resistance, and smart alert coverage. It also adds color night vision, a built-in light, customizable motion zones, and a privacy zone, none of which the Aqara Camera E1 includes. The Aqara Camera E1 is not without merit, though, since it supports more storage options than its rival, a real plus for buyers who value recording flexibility. If storage flexibility is your top priority, the Aqara Camera E1 remains a reasonable indoor option. If you need a well-rounded camera built for outdoor conditions, the Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) is the stronger buy.
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 2.4/5 GHz
vs
Winner
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 2.4/5 GHz
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| Feature | Aqara Camera E1 | Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $69.99 | $59.99 | Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) |
| Rating | 4.3 | 4.5 | Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) |
| Weather Resistance | NO | IP65 | Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) |
| Storage | MicroSD Card Slot, Cloud | Cloud | Aqara Camera E1 |
| Color Night Vision | NO | YES | Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) |
| Alerts | Motion, People | Motion, People, Animals, Vehicles, Familiar Faces, Packages, Glass breaking Sound, Baby Crying Sound, Smoke Alarm Sound, Carbon Monoxide Alarm Sound | Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) |
| Light | NO | YES | Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) |
| Local Control | YES | NO | Aqara Camera E1 |
| No Subscription Required | YES | NO | Aqara Camera E1 |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year | Tie |
| PoE | NO | NO | Tie |
| Solar Charging | NO | NO | Tie |
$69.99
- + Storage: MicroSD Card Slot, Cloud
- + Local Control: YES
- + No Subscription Required: YES
- - Price: $69.99 vs $59.99
- - Rating: 4.3 vs 4.5
Winner
$59.99
- + Price: $59.99
- + Rating: 4.5
- + Weather Resistance: IP65
- - Storage: Cloud vs MicroSD Card Slot, Cloud
- - Local Control: NO vs YES
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better overall: Aqara Camera E1 or Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor)?
The Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) is the better overall camera, winning on price, rating, weather resistance, color night vision, and a fuller set of smart alerts. The Aqara Camera E1 only comes out ahead on storage options.
Is the Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) weatherproof?
Yes, weather resistance is one of the areas where the Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) beats the Aqara Camera E1, making it the better fit for outdoor placement.
What smart features does the Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) add over the Aqara Camera E1?
The Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) adds color night vision, a built-in light, customizable motion zones, and a privacy zone, none of which the Aqara Camera E1 offers.
Who should buy the Aqara Camera E1?
The Aqara Camera E1 is the better choice for buyers who prioritize flexible storage options and plan to keep the camera indoors, where weatherproofing is not a concern.
Who should buy the Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor)?
The Arlo Essential Pan Tilt (Outdoor) suits buyers who need a weatherproof camera with color night vision, a built-in light, and a deeper set of customizable alerts, all at a better price and rating than the Aqara Camera E1.
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