If cameras will be the centerpiece of your home security system, Blink and Arlo are worth considering. Both feature high-resolution cameras powered by AI. They know the difference between a potential intruder and a package delivery.
But, there are some significant differences. Blink is the budget-friendly option with limited support for security equipment, while Arlo offers a broader range of camera options and bundled equipment packages. For its smarter detection and expandable system, we think Arlo is the better of the two. However, let’s put each brand head-to-head to see how they perform.
>> Learn More: The Best Home Security Systems of 2025
Overview: Arlo vs. Blink
While Arlo offers more sophisticated AI features, home automation, and technology, Blink cameras are inexpensive-but-effective options for homeowners who don’t want all the high-tech bells and whistles.
- Both brands offer indoor and outdoor cameras, as well as video doorbells. They also both specialize in battery-powered cameras, although they now offer wired models.
- Most of Blink and Arlo’s cameras are wireless, meaning you can install them yourself.
- Arlo also sells a home security system with sensors, a keypad, and a hub. Blink primarily sells security cameras.
- Both brands have models with local storage, so you don’t need to pay for a subscription.
- Arlo has 4K cameras, but Blink’s cameras only offer 1080p HD resolution.
Our Pro Arlo 5S is just one of the advanced security cameras we compared to Blink models.
Similarities: Blink vs. Arlo
Camera-based security is not the only similarity Arlo and Blink share. Neither company requires a contract nor subscription fees, and you can install the devices yourself in no time at all. Here are some other factors they have in common.
- Both systems have camera models at various price points to suit different budgets.
- Many camera models have two-way audio to talk to guests or scare off intruders.
- Blink and Arlo cameras distinguish between humans and animals using AI.
- The cameras have night vision features, with options in infrared black-and-white or color modes.
- Most of the cameras are wireless and can be set up anywhere within Wi-Fi range.
Differences: Blink vs. Arlo
The main differences between the Arlo and Blink systems involve their price and 24/7 monitoring capabilities. Both are advanced in terms of the technology built into their cameras, but Blink doesn't offer the same features as many of the other, more popular home security systems.
- Arlo is much more expensive but offers a wider range of features.
- Blink lacks 4K resolution cameras, while Arlo offers multiple options.
- Arlo has a camera that connects to 4G LTE networks when the power or Wi-Fi drops out (Arlo Go), keeping your home secure during outages.
- Blink batteries last up to two years on default settings, whereas Arlo’s average battery life is 3 to 6 months.
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Blink and Arlo Head-to-Head
During our time testing Blink and Arlo, we discovered how different they are. Here’s what stood out most.
We chose not to use the stand for the Blink Mini so it didn’t look obvious in our living room.
Features
Blink specializes in security cameras and has you covered inside and outside. You’ll find models that plug into outlets, battery-powered wireless options, and hardwired outdoor cameras. The maximum resolution is 1080p HD, which is fine for most people, and the field of view ranges from 110 degrees to 143 degrees diagonal. They also have built-in motion sensors to trigger alerts.
Expert Advice: We recommend buying security cameras with at least a 110- to 120-degree field of view. This should be wide enough to cover large areas like living rooms and backyards.
Arlo is more of a complete home security system, featuring sensors and a keypad hub in addition to its security camera range. Speaking of Arlo’s cameras, the models we tested have maximum resolutions ranging from 1080p HD to 4K. Their field of view ranges from 130 degrees to 180 degrees. Some Arlo cameras we’ve tested even have color night vision thanks to the device’s built-in lighting.
Another significant difference is that Arlo offers 24/7 professional monitoring. It does require a monthly subscription, but it might be worth it. For $24.99 per month, security experts will monitor your home and dispatch first responders during emergencies. That’s in addition to getting cloud video storage for all your Arlo cameras and advanced features like package and animal detection.
Compared to other home security companies, Arlo’s monitoring subscription is affordable. Self Setup ADT plans with security cameras start at $39.99 per month, and SimpliSafe packages, if you have cameras, start at $31.99. Check out our SimpliSafe vs. Arlo comparison to learn more.
Winner: Arlo
Contracts
Neither company requires lengthy contracts or a long-term subscription for cloud storage. In fact, some of the cameras include local storage via USB or SD card. However, if you want cloud storage, here’s what you’ll need to pay with Blink.
| No Plan | Blink Basic | Blink Plus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | Free | $3 | $10 |
| Yearly Price | Free | $30 | $100 |
| Number of Supported Devices | Unlimited | 1 | Unlimited |
| 60-Day Cloud Storage | No | Yes | Yes |
Arlo offers plans without professional monitoring. For a single camera, it’s $7.99 per month, and for unlimited cameras it’s $17.99 per month. This gives you 60-day cloud storage and all of Arlo’s AI smart detection features.
Winner: Arlo
Pricing
Blink’s cameras start at $39.99. That will get you the indoor Mini Pan-Tilt model, which plugs into an outlet. Other indoor cameras range from $49.98 (Mini 2 plug-in camera) to $79.99 (Indoor wireless). Outdoor models start at $89.99 (Wired Floodlight Camera) and go as high as $139.98 (Outdoor 3 Floodlight Camera). The video doorbell starts at $59.99 and has wired and wireless options.
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Arlo cameras are more expensive. Here are the starting prices for their models:
- Essential: Wired and wireless indoor and outdoor models starting at $39.99.
- Pro: Wireless security camera suitable for indoor and outdoor use starting at $179.99.
- Go: Wireless security camera with Wi-Fi and 4G LTE connectivity starting at $199.99.
- Ultra: The top-of-the-line model with 4K resolution and color night vision. Pricing starts at $299.99.
Winner: Blink
The Arlo Essential Indoor camera is one of the more affordable Arlo devices we bought for our testing.
Equipment Experience
When we tested Blink cameras, the first thing we did was adjust the camera’s motion sensitivity. It reduced unnecessary alerts for our neighbor’s cat and passing cars. We also adjusted the night vision resolution for clearer viewing. After these tweaks, we had no issues. We did miss some of the smart home integrations and automations that other home security systems offer, but we also didn’t pay as much for Blink as we did for those systems.
FYI: As an Amazon company, Blink can easily integrate with Alexa for voice commands. We found it handy when we heard noises while preparing dinner. Rather than wash our hands, we asked Alexa to bring up the live feed on our phone to see what it was.
During our testing with Arlo, we signed up for the professional monitoring plan so we could try out the AI features. We also set up activity zones so the cameras knew where to focus their attention. The most noticeable difference is the video and night vision quality. We didn’t have to zoom in to see the neighbor’s cat resting on the porch or our parcel waiting by the door.
Winner: Arlo
Installation
Both companies let you install the cameras yourself. Some are as simple as plugging into an outlet, and others are more complex, involving connecting to your internal wiring. Thankfully, Blink and Arlo both include detailed instructions on the website and inside the smartphone apps.
>> Compare: The Best DIY Home Security Systems of 2025
Winner: Draw
Comparing the size of our Blink Mini on the left to the Blink Indoor on the right.
Summary: Arlo vs. Blink
If you’re only interested in security cameras and want to keep costs down, we recommend Blink. You won’t get all the bells and whistles that come with a home security system, but you might not need them if you’re a renter or live in an apartment.
But, we still think Arlo is the better option. You can always start with some of their high-quality security cameras and integrate more equipment, like sensors, as your needs change. The added benefits of professional monitoring and AI-powered recognition also mean you’re always protected whether you’re home or away.
FAQs
- Can you use Blink and Arlo cameras without paying a subscription?
Yes, both work without subscriptions. However, you won’t get access to features like cloud storage, person detection, and activity zones. You will still receive motion-activated notifications when the cameras detect movement, though.
- Are Blink and Arlo compatible with smart home devices?
Blink and Arlo integrate with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for voice control. Arlo is also compatible with Apple Home. You can also set up automations using Arlo security cameras and IFTTT.
- Is Blink or Arlo better for outdoor use?
Both Arlo and Blink offer a range of weather-resistant outdoor security cameras. Some models are suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Do Blink and Arlo cameras offer facial recognition?
While Arlo and Blink can detect people, they don’t recognize familiar faces or guests like Nest Cams.
- Can Blink and Arlo cameras have sound detection?
Blink cameras can’t detect sounds. But, Arlo cameras can when you pay for a subscription.
