By Taylor Bennett 
Arlo Video Doorbell 2K + Chime 2 (2nd Gen, Latest Release) Review
In today’s connected world, home security is more important than ever. And there’s no better way to keep an eye on your front door than with a smart video doorbell. Today, we’re reviewing the Arlo Video Doorbell 2K + Chime 2 (2nd Gen, Latest Release), a feature-packed option designed to provide peace of mind with its advanced surveillance capabilities.
Detailed Review
The Arlo Video Doorbell 2K + Chime 2 (2nd Gen, Latest Release) brings a lot to the table. The 2K resolution offers crystal-clear video quality, allowing you to easily identify visitors and potential threats. The 180-degree field of view ensures that you capture everything happening on your porch, from packages being delivered to people approaching your door. The head-to-toe view is particularly useful, as it eliminates blind spots and allows you to see the entire person, not just their upper body.
Night vision is a must-have for any video doorbell, and Arlo’s implementation is excellent. The camera automatically switches to night vision mode in low-light conditions, providing clear and detailed footage even in complete darkness. This ensures that your home remains protected around the clock. The inclusion of a motion sensor triggers instant alerts to your smartphone or tablet, keeping you informed of any activity near your front door.
The 2-way audio feature is also a significant advantage. You can use your phone to talk to visitors, even when you’re not at home. This is great for giving delivery instructions or deterring unwanted guests. The integrated siren adds an extra layer of security, allowing you to scare away potential intruders. Installation is simple, and the option to use either wireless or wired power provides flexibility to fit your home’s configuration. The included Chime 2 enhances the experience by providing audible alerts inside your home when the doorbell is rung.
The Arlo Secure Plan (trial included) unlocks even more advanced features, such as 30-day video cloud storage, person, package, and vehicle detection, and 24/7 emergency response. The smart object detection is a standout feature, reducing false alarms by accurately identifying what triggered the motion detection. It’s important to note that these premium features require a paid subscription after the trial period ends, which is a factor to consider in the overall cost.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Crystal-clear 2K video resolution | Arlo Secure Plan required for full feature set after trial |
| Wide 180-degree field of view with head-to-toe coverage | Can be pricier than some competitors |
| Excellent night vision | Requires a strong Wi-Fi connection for optimal performance |
| 2-way audio for convenient communication | Some users report occasional connectivity issues |
| Integrated siren for added security | |
| Person, package, and vehicle detection | |
| Wireless or wired installation options |
Excellent Alternatives
- Ring Video Doorbell – A popular and well-established option with a wide range of features.
- Google Nest Doorbell – Integrates seamlessly with the Google ecosystem and offers intelligent alerts.
- eufy Video Doorbell – Provides local storage options and doesn’t require a monthly subscription.
Final Verdict
The Arlo Video Doorbell 2K + Chime 2 (2nd Gen, Latest Release) is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their home security with a smart video doorbell. Its excellent video quality, wide field of view, and intelligent features make it a worthwhile investment. While the subscription cost after the trial period is a factor to consider, the peace of mind and added security it provides are invaluable. We recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable and feature-rich video doorbell.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4.5/5