Cameras · Head to head

Aqara Camera E1 vs Arlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen)

Full Smart Cameras comparison in 2026

Updated August 2026
Data from Amazon and official Aqara and Arlo sites.
2026 verdict
This camera matchup is closer than it first looks: the Arlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen) edges out the Aqara Camera E1 as the better overall pick, mainly on the strength of its weather resistance, color night vision, and a deeper set of customizable smart alerts. That said, the Aqara Camera E1 actually comes out ahead on price, rating, connectivity options, storage flexibility, and even offers 2K video, real advantages for anyone prioritizing image quality and ecosystem fit over weatherproofing. For most outdoor or alert-heavy use cases, the Arlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen) is still the safer overall choice. Buyers who value a sharper picture, wider connectivity, and a better price should not overlook the Aqara Camera E1, since it wins on more individual categories even though it trails overall.
FeatureAqara Camera E1Arlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen)Winner
Price$63.99€165.55Aqara Camera E1
Rating4.23.7Aqara Camera E1
Weather ResistanceNOYESArlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen)
Connectivity2.4 GHz WiFi, 5 GHz WiFi2.4 GHz WiFiAqara Camera E1
StorageMicroSD Card Slot, CloudCloudAqara Camera E1
2K VideoYESNOAqara Camera E1
Color Night VisionNOYESArlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen)
AlertsMotion, PeopleMotion, People, Animals, Vehicles, Packages, Smoke Alarm Sound, Carbon Monoxide Alarm SoundArlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen)
LightNOSpotlightArlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen)
Customizable Motion ZonesNOSubscription requiredArlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen)
Privacy ZoneNOYESArlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen)
Warranty1 year1 yearTie

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better overall: Aqara Camera E1 or Arlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen)?

The Arlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen) is the better overall camera, mainly due to its weather resistance, color night vision, and fuller smart alert coverage. However, the Aqara Camera E1 wins on price, rating, connectivity, storage, and 2K video, so the gap between them is narrow.

What is the biggest difference between the Aqara Camera E1 and the Arlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen)?

The biggest difference is weatherproofing versus value. The Arlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen) is built for outdoor use with color night vision and richer smart alerts, while the Aqara Camera E1 is the more affordable, better-rated option with wider connectivity, more storage flexibility, and 2K video.

Does the Aqara Camera E1 have a better rating than the Arlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen)?

Yes, the Aqara Camera E1 has the better rating of the two, along with a better price, wider connectivity, more storage options, and 2K video support.

Who should buy the Aqara Camera E1?

The Aqara Camera E1 is a strong pick for buyers who want a more affordable, better-rated camera with 2K video, wider connectivity, and more storage flexibility, and who do not need weatherproof housing.

Who should buy the Arlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen)?

The Arlo Essential XL HD (2nd Gen) suits buyers who need weather resistance, color night vision, and a deeper set of customizable smart alerts, and who are willing to trade some price and rating advantage for outdoor durability.

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