Updated November 2026
Data from the official Arlo and TP-Link sites.
2026 verdict
TP-Link Tapo C560WS edges out Arlo Essential 2K (2nd Gen) in 2026, led by price, rating, and connectivity.
It separates itself most clearly on price, rating, and connectivity, while still looking better on storage and 4K video. There is still a case for Arlo Essential 2K (2nd Gen), but mainly if alerts are what you value most. Overall, TP-Link Tapo C560WS makes more sense for most people.
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz
vs
Winner
25% OFF
$74.99
$99.99
Works with
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 2.4/5 GHz
- Ethernet
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| Feature | Arlo Essential 2K (2nd Gen) | TP-Link Tapo C560WS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.99 | $74.99 | TP-Link Tapo C560WS |
| Rating | 4.0 | 4.2 | TP-Link Tapo C560WS |
| Connectivity | 2.4 GHz WiFi | 2.4 GHz WiFi, 5 GHz WiFi, Ethernet | TP-Link Tapo C560WS |
| Storage | Cloud | MicroSD Card Slot, Cloud | TP-Link Tapo C560WS |
| 4K Video | NO | YES | TP-Link Tapo C560WS |
| RTSP | NO | YES | TP-Link Tapo C560WS |
| Alerts | Motion, People, Animals, Vehicles, Familiar Faces, Packages, Smoke Alarm Sound, Carbon Monoxide Alarm Sound | Motion, People, Animals, Vehicles | Arlo Essential 2K (2nd Gen) |
| Customizable Motion Zones | Subscription required | YES | TP-Link Tapo C560WS |
| Local Control | NO | YES | TP-Link Tapo C560WS |
| No Subscription Required | NO | YES | TP-Link Tapo C560WS |
| Weather Resistance | YES | IP66 | Tie |
| Light | Spotlight | YES | Tie |
$99.99
- + Alerts: Motion, People, Animals, Vehicles, Familiar Faces, Packages, Smoke Alarm Sound, Carbon Monoxide Alarm Sound
- - Price: $99.99 vs $74.99
- - Rating: 4.0 vs 4.2
Winner
25% OFF
$74.99
$99.99
- + Price: $74.99
- + Rating: 4.2
- + Connectivity: 2.4 GHz WiFi, 5 GHz WiFi, Ethernet
- - Alerts: Motion, People, Animals, Vehicles vs Motion, People, Animals, Vehicles, Familiar Faces, Packages, Smoke Alarm Sound, Carbon Monoxide Alarm Sound
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better overall: Arlo Essential 2K (2nd Gen) or TP-Link Tapo C560WS?
TP-Link Tapo C560WS has the stronger overall profile in this comparison, especially for price, rating, and connectivity.
What is the biggest difference between Arlo Essential 2K (2nd Gen) and TP-Link Tapo C560WS?
Price is one of the clearest differences: Arlo Essential 2K (2nd Gen) lists $99.99, while TP-Link Tapo C560WS lists $74.99.
Which one looks better on price?
Arlo Essential 2K (2nd Gen) is listed at $99.99, while TP-Link Tapo C560WS is listed at $74.99. TP-Link Tapo C560WS (better spec).
Who should buy Arlo Essential 2K (2nd Gen)?
Choose Arlo Essential 2K (2nd Gen) if your priority is alerts and that matters more than price.
Who should buy TP-Link Tapo C560WS?
Choose TP-Link Tapo C560WS if your priority is price and rating and that matters more than alerts.
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