Lorex vs Arlo (What You Need To Know – 2022)
How we reviewed: hands-on tests, hours studying Lorex and Arlo’s sites, and reading 100+ customer reviews.
Winner – Lorex
Our Rating
Starts at $6.99/M
Runner Up – Arlo
Our Rating
Starts at $9.99/M
Lorex and Arlo have been around respectively for 20 and 8 years. This has given them time to continually improve their products and grow with their consumers. As a security camera installer, a lot of people ask me which of these two models is best when picking their home security system.
With these being two of the most popular security cameras on the market, the choice can be difficult, so today we’re going to walk through all the features that make them similar and set them apart, and tell you why you should choose one over the other.
Quick Summary
Choose Lorex if:
- You need Skype features
- You prefer two-way communication
- You need to use local storage
Choose Arlo if:
- You want an easier installation
- You need to use third-party integration
- You need to use Apple HomKit
Lorex
Lorex Technologies is famous for its excellent 4K video quality with night vision capabilities. For over 20+ years, they have been supplying security systems for homes and businesses.
Lorex is commonly used for commercial-grade security systems. That, however, does not mean it isn’t good for your home security. Lorex security cameras come with analog and digital security cameras. For its users, Lorex offers both wired and wireless options. With outstanding 4K capabilities, Lorex allows its users to use Cloud storage, the Lorex Cloud app, and many more. With all of these versatile features, Lorex is one of the best options for security cameras.
Arlo
Since its launch in 2018, Arlo has managed to dominate the market for home security systems. In a short time, they were able to gain a good reputation and customers’ trust with their various home security systems.
Currently, they produce security cameras, doorbells, Floodlight cameras, and more. Arlo comes with excellent 4K Ultra-HD features and some over-the-top night vision capabilities. Apart from that, Arlo also offers Free Cloud storage and advanced video analytic features. For instance, its PIR motion detection is one of the best features in the market, if not the best.
Lorex vs Arlo: Pros and cons
Lorex
Arlo
Compare Lorex vs Arlo Features
Specs or Features
Lorex Technologies
Arlo Technologies
Video Resolution
4K Ultra HD
4K Ultra HD
Video Analytics
Advanced PIR Motion Detection
PIR Motion Detection
People and Object Detection
Auto Zoom
Power Options
Wired and Battery
Solar Plugin and Battery
Supported Smart Devices
Amazon Alexa
Google Assistant
Amazon Alexa
Google Assistant
Apple HomKit
Warranty
One-Year
One-Year
PTZ Cameras
Night Vision
Audio Functions
Sound Detection
Active Deterrence
Free Cloud
Amazon.com price as of 10/08/2021 at 3:14 p.m. (MT). Read full disclaimer. Offers and availability subject to change.
Lorex vs Arlo: Features
There is no doubt that both of these brands can be a great addition to your home security system. Having said that, in this section, we are going to do a more in-depth comparison of Lorex vs Arlo security cameras.
Monitoring
Both of these systems allow monitoring to be done by the home users. If you need, it is possible to set both systems to be monitored by a third-party service. However, neither of these systems gives the option of 24/7 professional monitoring.
Arlo gives its users third-party integration and quick pairing with smart devices such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
When it comes to Lorex, they offer the same functionalities without the Apple HomeKit. But, Lorex allows users to control the whole security system with their mobile app. So, lacking Apple HomeKit is not a big deal here at all. After all, the Lorex app is compatible with both Android and iPhone.
Apart from that, both models will notify the respected authorities if anything goes wrong.
Winner: Lorex
If we consider the monitoring, both Lorex and Arlo are very similar in many ways. However, the Lorex mobile app is a game-changer. So, the winner is Lorex.
Installation
When it comes to installation, Arlo comes with an easy installation process and excellent guidelines. Even though Lorex offers a good installation manual, the installation process itself is a little tricky, and they do not offer any professional installation services. This is a major setback compared to Arlo.
Winner: Arlo
Arlo comes with a straightforward installation process. So, there is no competition in this department. The clear winner is Arlo.
Video Analytics
Lorex and Arlo are both equipped with advanced video analytics. With other brands, such features do not come included. So, without a doubt, Lorex and Arlo are both unique in that department. (1)
For instance, Arlo offers PIR motion detection, People & Object detection, and Auto-zoom & tracking. Lorex offers PIR motion detection too. But, they do not offer any other video analytics features.
Winner: Arlo
Both systems have excellent video analytics features. However, we have to give a slight edge to Arlo because of the People & Object detection. Therefore, the winner is Arlo.
Pricing
If you are looking to buy an Arlo security camera, you will have to spend between $250 to $480. Sites such as Amazon sell Arlo products with special deals at times. So, if you are lucky, you might get a discount. When it comes to monthly subscriptions, Arlo provides the following plans for its users.
Lorex’s Plans
| Monthly | Annually | |
| Cloud Storage | $6.99 | $70 |
Arlo’s Plans
| Monthly | Annually | |
| Basic Plan | $9.99 | $100 |
| Elite Plan | $14.99 | $149 |
Lorex offers various security cameras, and the cheapest one is $99. Apart from that, if you are looking to buy a high-end Lorex camera system with all the advanced features, it will cost you around $3000. So, it is safe to say, Lorex cameras range between $99 and $3000. Compared to Arlo, Lorex offers a much cheaper and simpler plan.
Winner: Lorex
When comparing the pricing of both Arlo and Lorex, you can see that the Lorex offers a much more affordable monthly plan, and their lowest priced camera is only $99. So, Lorex is the winner here.
Features
Arlo security cameras are equipped with excellent features such as night vision, baby monitors, and motion sensors. You can choose from various types of cameras, and a hub can be set up to work with 60 cameras. Arlo cameras can also be used with smart devices without a problem.
Lorex has many features that are extremely popular among its users. For instance, with Lorex, you can enjoy features such as temperature control, Skype, cloud storage devices, motion sensors, two-way communication, and night vision. When you are pairing a Lorex system with an Android device, you won’t experience any issues. But, pairing with an iSO device is a little troublesome, and you might experience some issues.
Winner: Lorex
Lorex vs Arlo: Standout Features
Solar Plugin
Arlo Pro and Arlo Go security cameras come with two different power options; a Solar Plugin and Battery. So, you can easily plug in a solar panel directly to your Arlo security camera. Then use the Arlo app to check the percentage of the battery. (2)
Keep in mind: When connecting the Arlo Solar Panel to the Arlo Pro or Arlo Go camera, make sure that the battery is fully charged. The Arlo Solar Panel is intended to keep the battery charged.
Winner: Arlo
Skype
Lorex cameras have many features. Among its features, Lorex Skype’s connect ability is one of the most valuable features out there. For instance, using skype you can connect to your home wireless camera from anywhere. This feature is most commonly used by parents to look after their kids. After making a call to your wireless camera via Skype, you can watch your kid from anywhere.
Winner: Lorex
PTZ Cameras
Pan-tilt-zoom aka PTZ cameras is an excellent choice for many homes and business security systems. When using a PTZ camera, you can change the direction and zoom level via remote connection. This is highly valuable for shops and parking lots. If the operator sees something suspicious, he can zoom in to that location for more details. Lorex offers several types of PTZ cameras that work to perfection. If you are looking for a PTZ camera, you should Lorex.
Winner: Lorex
Wrapping Up
There is no doubt that both Lorex and Arlo security cameras are the leading products in the current market. (3)
Use Lorex Security Cameras because:
- They have a Lorex cloud app and advanced monitoring capabilities
- They have more affordable cameras and plans
- They come with PTZ cameras
- They have Skype capabilities
Use Arlo Security Cameras because:
- They come with a quick and easy installation process
- They have advanced video analytics features
- They give the option to use a solar plugin
All things considered, now, you should be able to easily choose between Lorex and Arlo security cameras based on your own requirements. If you ever get confused, remember to check out our Lorex vs Arlocomparison one more time.
Take a look at some of our related articles below.
- How to install security cameras
- Best battery-powered security camera
- What to look for when buying a home security camera system
References
(1) analytics – https://www.oracle.com/ph/business-analytics/what-is-analytics/
(2) solar – https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/solar/
(3) market – https://www.britannica.com/topic/market
Written by
John Fox
Senior Writer & Director
John Fox has been working as a security consultant for over 20 years. During his time in the industry, he’s learned about what it takes to ensure your home and family are always safe. With Safe Now, he’s tried to take those two decades of experience and share it with others. His goal now is to help others figure out how to make the right choices for their businesses and families.
