Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell vs Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd gen)

The Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell is the better-value pick: it's cheaper, carries a higher owner rating, and adds SmartThings support. The Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd gen) mainly gains you sharper 2K video, so it wins only if resolution outweighs price.

Video resolution and price. The Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd gen) shoots 2K, while the Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell is 1080p HD but costs less and is better rated. Both share the wire-free design, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and, critically, the same Arlo Secure subscription requirement.

Yes. Both the Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell and the Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd gen) need an Arlo Secure plan for cloud recording, video history, and person, package and vehicle alerts, and neither has any local storage, so a subscription is effectively mandatory to use them fully.

The Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd gen) does capture sharper 2K footage than the 1080p Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell, and it adds a rated 4-month battery. If image detail matters most and you'll pay for Arlo Secure anyway, the 2K is the upgrade.

Buyers who want the Arlo experience for less money, with a slightly higher rating and SmartThings support, and who are fine with 1080p video and paying for Arlo Secure to unlock recordings and smart alerts.

Anyone who wants the sharpest picture in Arlo's doorbell line and a longer rated battery, and who is committed to an Arlo Secure subscription since it, too, has no local storage.